BISC 2Genetics, Ecology, and Evolution

3 credits · Biological Science · Penn State

In BISC 2 (GN;3cr.), students will explore concepts, current issues, and the relationship between three core areas of biological sciences: Genetics, Ecology and Evolution. In studying genetics, students will discover how genetic information is inherited from one generation to the next and gain an appreciation for the potential impact of genetic mutations. In learning ecological concepts, students will explore interactions between organisms and the environment. By investigating the processes of evolution, students will learn how changes in an organism's genetics and environment can lead to changes in physical or behavioral traits of a species over time. By gaining a deeper understanding of these three, interrelated areas of science, students will construct evidence-based arguments regarding current global challenges or ethical dilemmas such as environmental issues, genetic engineering, and health and disease. Specific examples covered each semester may vary based on student and instructor interest. As a course that meets general education (GN) requirements, students will increase their scientific literacy, their integrative thinking, and societal responsibility and ethical reasoning skills. Students who have passed BIOL 110 , 133 , 220W , or 222 may not schedule this course.