101 surveys life from the cell to topics in human health. 102 focuses on the diversity of the Earth's biota and the interdependence among components.
Laboratories involve a mix of skills-oriented exercises and assignments focused on topics.
Although not required, it is strongly recommended that 101-102 be taken in sequence. Properties of life, molecular basis, origin of life, cells, genetics, introduction to kingdoms, origins of multicellularity, multicellular plants and animals, ideas about evolution, man's place in nature. Writing and analysis of lab activities required. Credit not available for students with credit for BOTH 101 and 102. Labs will stress basic laboratory skills and procedures such as measuring pipetting and mixing solutions, as well as introduce modern methods for analysis of cell components such as electrophoresis and centrifugation.