BIOL 171: Introduction to Biology I

Discipline
Credits 3 Lecture Hours 3
Designation
DB

BIOL 171 is the introductory biology course appropriate for all life science majors. Topics covered include: cell structure, chemistry, growth and reproduction; DNA replication, transcription and translation; gene regulation, genetics, evolution, viruses, and bacteria.

Prerequisite Courses
Prerequisites

Credit for or concurrent enrollment in CHEM 161.

Course Outcomes
  • Describe the fundamental biology of the cell, including cell anatomy, biochemical composition, cellular metabolism, respiration and photosynthesis, communication, growth and reproduction.
  • Describe the fundamentals of Mendelian genetics, the chromosomal and molecular basis of heredity and apply these concepts to the mechanisms of evolution.
  • Describe the process of DNA replication and DNA transcription and translation from gene to protein, including gene regulation and apply these processes to the reproduction and metabolism of the cell.
  • Describe the principles of evolution through natural selection, the principles of descent with modification, and the mechanisms involved in the evolution of populations and the origin of species.
  • Describe the history of life on Earth and the evolutionary relatedness of life on Earth through morphological and molecular phylogenies.
  • Describe the fundamental structure and function of viruses and bacteria.