2025-2026 Course Catalog – Science: Life Science Emphasis
Science: Life Science Emphasis
CL College Level
DC Dual Credit
SCI04301/04302
AP Biology (DC)
Prerequisite: Fall – Successful completion of two semesters (or equivalent) of General Biology and General Chemistry or permission of instructor
Spring – Successful completion of first semester AP Biology or permission of the Science Division Chair.
Co-requisite: AP Biology Lab (SCI4301L/4302L)
Credit: 1.5 credits per semester
Offered: Fall/Spring Sequence
This Advanced Placement course provides an accelerated, comprehensive, and thorough overview of the field of biology in preparation for the AP Biology exam. The course covers biological chemistry, cell biology, Mendelian genetics, evolutionary theory and principles, and an overview of the diversity, structure and ecology of organisms. Laboratory activities follow the required AP Biology lab exercises and other lab activities. Students will prepare for and are encouraged to take the AP Biology exam in May.
* Ball State University offers 4 college credit hours in BIO 111 and 112 to students who complete this course. Refer to the Dual Credit section for details on enrollment and fees.
SCI04304
Biology II: Microbiology (DC)
Prerequisite: One year laboratory biology
Co-requisite: Biology II: Microbiology Lab (SCI4304L)
Credit: 1.5 credits
Offered: Fall
The history of bacterial discovery, the scope of bacterial effects, biotechnology, and the classification of micro-organisms are studied. The course includes the study of the structure, function, and ecology of microbes and viruses. Basic aseptic and sterile techniques for isolating, culturing, and identifying bacteria are discussed and practiced in the laboratory as a prelude to learning fundamental staining techniques, biochemical tests, etc. that are used in the identification of unknown bacteria. Some consideration is given to the medical concerns related to bacterial and viral pathogens.
* Ball State University offers 5 college credit hours in BIO 113 to students who complete this course. Refer to the Dual Credit section for details on enrollment and fees.
SCI04305/04306
Biology II: Human Anatomy and Physiology (CL)
Prerequisite: Fall – One year biology
Spring – Successful completion of first semester Biology II: Human Anatomy and Physiology or permission of Science Division Chair.
Co-requisite: Biology II: Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab (SCI4305L/4306L)
Credit: 1.5 credits per semester
Offered: Fall/Spring Sequence
Using an integrated text, this course covers material in six parts, which include: levels of organization, support and movement, control and regulation, fluids and transport, environmental exchange, and the continuity of life. Clinical topics that relate to personal and family health concerns are interwoven with a consideration of the relationship of structure to function. The concepts of anatomical and physiological processes are explored so that not only those seeking careers in the health sciences may benefit from the course, but also those interested in the mechanics of the human body are challenged.
SCI04310
Biology II: Zoology (CL)
Prerequisite: One year biology
Co-requisite: Biology II: Zoology Lab (SCI4310L)
Credit: 1.5 credits
Offered: Fall
Zoology is a comprehensive survey of the diversity found in Kingdom Animalia. This course addresses the issue of why such diversity occurs, and what factors influence and constrain it. Laboratory explorations of live and preserved specimens allow hands-on examination of the structure and behavior of animals.
SCI04313
Biology II: Introduction to Nutrition (CL)
Prerequisite: None
Co-requisite: Biology II: Introduction to Nutrition Lab (SCI4313L)
Credit: 1.5 credits
Offered: Fall
This course will explore the general principles of nutrition that are needed for optimal health. The chemical composition of the major macronutrients and micronutrients will be examined. Additionally, the physiology behind proper digestion and absorption of consumed nutrients as well as their use in cellular energy metabolism will be studied. For the laboratory component of the course, the class will learn to comprehend nutrition and food labels, utilize nutrition tracking tools, as well as perform hands-on activities to explore the chemical makeup of food molecules. Current topics in nutrition will be integrated into the course material, such as evaluating the efficacy of dietary trends and gaining helpful strategies to eat healthier as a high school student. This course is highly recommended for students who are interested in increasing their knowledge base about basic nutrition in order to make more informed decisions about leading a healthy lifestyle.
SCI04319
Biology II: Human Genetics (CL)
Prerequisite: One year biology
Co-requisite: Biology II: Human Genetics Lab (SCI4319L)
Credit: 1.5 credits
Offered: Spring
Human Genetics is an advanced Biology course emphasizing the inheritance of human traits. Specific topics include the inheritance patterns of genes, pedigree analysis, chromosomal aberrations, behavioral genetics, and genetic screening. Laboratory activities emphasize techniques used to detect and analyze genetic information.
SCI04321S2
Biology II: Botany (CL)
Prerequisite: One year biology
Co-requisite: Biology II: Botany Lab (SCI4321L)
Credit: 1.5 credits
Offered: Spring
This course explores the biology of plants. Topics include plant taxonomy, physiology, life history, genetics, natural selection, population and community ecology, species interactions, community structure and diversity, primary productivity and nutrient cycling, biogeography, and global carbon dynamics. Hands-on laboratory and field activities will include examination of plant tissues, cultivation of plants to investigate physiology and genetics, and characterization of natural plant communities on and near campus.
SCI04327/04328
AP Environmental Science (DC)
Prerequisite: Fall – One year biology
Spring – Successful completion of fall semester AP Environmental Science or permission of Science Division Chair
Co-requisite: AP Environmental Science Lab (SCI04327L/04328L)
Credit: 1.5 credits
Offered: Fall/Spring Sequence
The study of environmental science concerns itself with the interaction between humans and the ecosystems in which we live and work. The course focuses on the determination of environmental quality through a series of laboratory experiences dealing with soil, water, and air resources. There is a concentration on problems having to do with population, pollution, agriculture, resource management and land use. An integrated approach to the issues facing us is emphasized. The course will use a problem-based learning approach and will incorporate a service learning component. Students will prepare for and are encouraged to take the AP Environmental Science exam in May.
* Ball State University offers 3 college credit hours to students in NREM 101 to students who complete this course. Refer to the Dual Credit section for details on enrollment and fees.