LSSS

Physiology is the study of the functions of the body systems. Developmental biology is the study of how genes govern differentiation of cells, tissues, and organs with unique structures and functions. Both disciplines require a foundation of mathematics, chemistry, physics, and cellular biology. Upper-division courses require synthesis and integration of information from many areas of science to allow understanding of such remarkable processes of how the heart pumps blood, how neurons communicate with one another, how insulin regulates blood sugar, or how specific gene products determine the morphology and functional capacity of the nervous ystem. Knowledge in these areas is expanding rapidly due to application of new techniques in molecular biology. Hence, significant exposure to concepts and techniques of molecular biology is an important component of the major.

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A major in physiology and developmental biology prepares students to pursue advanced degrees in the biological sciences and non-iological fields or to directly enter into employment. This major provides outstanding preparation for students seeking admittance into

professional programs in medicine, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, chiropractics, and pharmacy. For students who have aspirations of doing health-related research, this major will provide a challenging, thorough preparation for entrance into graduate programs and beyond. Graduates of this program will also have the academic and laboratory skills necessary for employment in medical, biotechnological, and pharmaceutical industries. This degree provides students pursuing advanced degrees in business, public management, or law the knowledge and training necessary to be admitted into professional schools and work in governmental agencies, health care and biotechnical industries, and patent or health care law.

Students majoring in physiology and developmental biology have the opportunity to become involved in laboratory research with the faculty (PDBio 495R).  Funding for this research comes from such sources as the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, American Heart Association, and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Research topics such as the following are being investigated:

This involves working closely with a faculty member in teaching (PDBio 349R), laboratory research (PDBio 494R), or research in current literature (PDBio 550R)

Various private, federal, and university sources of scholarships, fellowships, and grants are available. Most faculty attract grant funds to hire undergraduates to help with their research. Advanced undergraduates may be hired to teach labs or help sections for PDBio courses.

Chem 105* General College Chemistry

Chem 106 General College Chemistry

Chem 107 General College Chemistry Lab