Curriculum
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Requirements | 45 | |
| Major Requirements | 56 | |
| Electives (15 credits of electives may be used for MPH Fast Track) | 19 | |
Minor: Optional | ||
| Total Hours | 120 | |
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Core Courses | ||
CHEM 1414 |
General Chemistry I
This course introduces the student to general concepts of chemistry including atomic and molecular structure, reaction stoichiometry, thermodynamics, periodic trends, gas laws, and intermolecular forces. Note: Advisor placement, satisfactory performance on the chemistry placement exam, or completion of CHEM 1003 or CHEM 1204 with a C- or better is required. | |
COMM 1100 |
Public Speaking
This course considers the fundamentals of giving speeches that are informative, persuasive, inspirational, or entertaining. Students learn to manage speech tension, use vocal variety, improve delivery, and organize and support effective presentations with research and visual aids. | |
or COMM 2100 | Interpersonal Communication | |
MATH 2050 |
Statistics I
This course presents the basic methods of sampling and interpreting data, probability, the normal distribution, correlation, hypothesis testing and confidence intervals. | |
| Select one of the following (Human Beings and Being Human): | ||
PHIL 2400 |
Environmental Ethics
This course is a grounding in the theory and practice of environmental ethics. The course studies both secular and religious principles that impact environmental care, and examines the foundations and consequence of anthropocentric, biocentric, and eco-centric approaches and “deep ecology,” in dialogue with a developed biblical concept of stewardship. The course has no prerequisites and assumes no prior exposure to philosophy. | |
PHIL 3500 |
Bioethical Dilemmas in Contemporary Society
This course will study basic concepts concerning in vitro fertilization, genetic testing and therapy, stem cell research, cloning, organ transplantation, end-of-life care, human subject research, and access to health care. Students will examine how contemporary philosophers address bioethical issues. They will be enabled to articulate their perspectives and make informed decisions compatible with the Christian faith. This course is particularly suited for those in medical, biology, pre-seminary, director of church ministries, teaching, and philosophy programs. Note: It is recommended that students take CCE 1030, PHIL 2010, or PHIL 2500 before enrolling. | |
SCI 2400 |
Cosmogony
This course is the study of origins. Questions regarding the origin of the physical universe and life (including human beings) will be explored and possible answers will be offered. The two possible cosmogonic models, Evolution and Creation, will be treated in-depth from a scientific perspective. The nature of science and the differences between operational science and origin science will also be investigated. The primary emphasis of this course concerns scientific evidences for origins; however, philosophical and theological evidences will also be discussed. Students must have a college-level physical or biological science course prior to taking this class. | |
| Recommended Core Courses | ||
PSY 1010 |
General Psychology
This course is an introductory survey course acquainting the student with the procedures, principles, theories, and vocabulary of psychology as a science. | |
LEGL 2300 |
Environmental Law & Politics
This course provides an historical analysis of environmentalism and the origins of environmental law, and also analyzes environmental law, policies, and procedures in the United States. | |
BIO 3760 |
Ecology of the Tropics
This course is a field study of tropical habitats and organisms as well as their interactions with humans. Requires class travel to the Caribbean or Central America. Students will experience the influence of Spanish, French, Dutch, British, African, and US cultures on this diverse region. This is a travel course that satisfies the core culture requirement. Travel costs will be in addition to tuition. | |
| Required Major Courses | ||
| BIO 1401 |
General Biology I
This course is an introductory laboratory course which contains a heavy emphasis on the cell, its structures, and the processes which take place inside the smallest of living units. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| or BIO 1501 | Functional Human Biology I | |
| BIO 1402 |
General Biology II
This course is a continuation of BIO 1401 that focuses on the biological processes that occur at the system level in both plants and animals. Topics such as transportation, organism control, nutrient breakdown and utilization will be compared in different organisms. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| or BIO 1502 | Functional Human Biology II | |
| BIO 2400 |
Botany
This course is an in depth study of the plant kingdom with emphasis on the study of plants in their natural habitat. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| BIO 2500 |
Zoology
This course is a survey of the animal kingdom and study of the biology of animals in their natural environment. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| BIO 2600 |
Biology of Microorganisms
This course focuses on the biology and genetics of organisms too small to be seen by the human eye. Students will be introduced to the roles that bacteria, viruses, and eukaryotic microbes play in the environment and human disease. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| BIO 3400 | 4 | |
| BIO 4900 |
Biology Senior Seminar
This course looks at current issues in biology by evaluating the biological literature. A general topic area is selected each semester for student presentations. Students must have Senior Status and 20 credits of Biology prior to taking this course. | 2 |
CHEM 1414 |
General Chemistry I
This course introduces the student to general concepts of chemistry including atomic and molecular structure, reaction stoichiometry, thermodynamics, periodic trends, gas laws, and intermolecular forces. Note: Advisor placement, satisfactory performance on the chemistry placement exam, or completion of CHEM 1003 or CHEM 1204 with a C- or better is required. | |
| CHEM 1424 | 4 | |
| CHEM 2414 |
Organic Chemistry I
This course introduces the student to organic synthesis and reaction mechanisms, focusing specifically on the chemistry of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and alcohols. Substitution and elimination concepts are covered along with acid-base chemistry and stereochemistry. | 4 |
| CHEM 2424 |
Organic Chemistry II
This course is a continuation of Chemistry 241, covering instrumental analysis of organic compounds, chemistry of aromatic systems, carbonyl chemistry, and the chemistry of amines. Laboratory consists of several multi-week projects including multi-step synthesis and unknown identifications.
| 4 |
| PHYS 1514 |
General Physics I
This introductory course includes classical mechanics, mechanical waves, and sound. It involves the use of algebra and trigonometry, and it emphasizes both numerical problem-solving and building logical arguments based on physics concepts. Note: Advisor placement, satisfactory performance on the physics placement exam, or completion of MATH 1280 with a C- or better is required. | 4 |
| or PHYS 1714 | University Physics I | |
| PHYS 1524 |
General Physics II
This course is a continuation of PHYS 1514 and includes classical electricity and magnetism, electric current and circuits, light waves, geometric optics, and the atom. Note: Completion of PHYS 1514 or 1714 with a C- or better is required. | 4 |
| or PHYS 1724 | University Physics II | |
| Major Electives | ||
| Choose a minimum of 10 credits of the following: 1 | 10 | |
| BIO 1801 |
Human Anatomy and Physiology I
This course begins with a study of the cell and cellular processes and tissues. It continues with investigation of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Students must consult with their academic advisor or the Academic Advising office before enrolling in this course. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| BIO 1802 | 4 | |
| BIO 2800 |
Pathophysiology
This course introduces the student to the study of the etiology, pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of common disease processes. Basic principles into the mechanism of cellular and tissue injury is followed by presentations of common diseases in the various organ systems. | 3 |
| BIO 3200 |
Cell Biology
This course provides a more detailed study of the relationships between cellular structure and function. Emphasis will be placed on proteins and enzymatic reactions, plasma and cellular membranes, cytoskeleton and cell motility, cellular interactions with the environment, and cell division. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| BIO 3500 |
Immunology
This course introduces the upper level biology student to the principles of the adaptive and innate immune systems and how these systems protect against and cause disease. Emphasis is placed on how the cells of the immune system recognize and eliminate foreign invaders from the human body. Laboratory course. BIO 3200 Cell Biology is strongly recommended. | 3 |
| BIO 3760 |
Ecology of the Tropics
This course is a field study of tropical habitats and organisms as well as their interactions with humans. Requires class travel to the Caribbean or Central America. Students will experience the influence of Spanish, French, Dutch, British, African, and US cultures on this diverse region. This is a travel course that satisfies the core culture requirement. Travel costs will be in addition to tuition. | 3 |
| BIO 3761 | 1 | |
| BIO 3800 | 3 | |
| BIO 3990 |
Biology Internship
This course provides credit for majors in the biological sciences who obtain laboratory or field experience outside of the typical academic environment. The experience must be approved in advance by the Chair of Life and Earth Sciences. Note: Students may enroll in this course multiple times, up to a maximum of 6 total credits. | 1-4 |
| BIO 4100 |
Ecology
This course is a study of the interactions between the organism and its environment. Ecology surveys the biotic and abiotic environments, ecosystem types, population ecology, community structure, and succession. Laboratory course.
| 4 |
| BIO 4200 |
Molecular Biology
This course explores the molecular mechanisms underlying an array of biological processes including gene expression, DNA mutation and repair, genetic engineering, development, cancer, and stem cell regulation. There is a strong emphasis on current techniques used in biological research. The lab utilizes molecular biology techniques, including gene editing, in an original semester-long research project culminating in a poster presentation. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| BIO 4300 |
Pharmacology
This course focuses on the principles of drug action. These principles will then be invoked in the discussion of various therapeutic interventions for diseases associated with selected organ systems. Treatments of pathogenic diseases and cancer will be discussed as well as the use of natural products. | 3 |
| BIO 4800 |
Human Physiology
This course focuses on medical physiology with emphasis on cellular and organ system physiology. Functions of circulation, respiration, heat regulation, water balance, neuromuscular mechanisms, neural and endocrine integration will be included. | 4 |
| BIO 4990 |
Undergraduate Research
This course provides students with the opportunity to work with members of the faculty conducting research in the biological sciences. Students must submit appropriate form to the Department Chair for approval. Note: Students may enroll in this course multiple times, up to a maximum of 4 total credits. | 1-4 |
| CHEM 3214 |
Biochemistry
This course introduces the student to the ways in which atoms and molecules function to produce life processes. Topics include aqueous interactions and bioenergetics; structure and function of nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids; enzyme function and kinetics; and an overview of major metabolic pathways. Students will become familiar with and proficient using molecular visualization, data fitting, and kinetic simulation software. Note: A C- or better in CHEM 2104, 2424, or consent of the instructor is required for enrollment. | 4 |
| ENV 1300 |
Introduction to Sustainability
This course is a comprehensive introduction to the vocabulary, importance, technology, and occupations concerning sustainability. This course is a guide on the principles that help us understand sustainability and how we can be more sustainable. This course reveals what types of well-paid sustainability careers exist. The list of topics ensures learners have a full exposure and understanding of sustainability as related to the triple bottom line, closed loop systems, ecological footprint, zero waste, alternative and renewable energy, local sourcing, nature's carrying capacity, water, transportation, food supplies, and climate change. | 3 |
| ENV 1400 |
Introductory GIS
This course introduces the principles of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) using ArcGIS software. Topics covered include fundamental cartography, collecting, analyzing, and disseminating geographical data. Laboratory Course. | 4 |
| ENV 1800 |
Environmental Science
This course is a study of the effects man has on his surroundings through a basic understanding of ecological, biochemical, and physical systems in nature. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| ENV 2200 |
Water Quality and Aquaponics
This course explores how natural environmental processes are driven by chemical reactions and how these processes are affected by toxicants. Includes production techniques and methods for aquaponics, the combination of hydroponics and aquaculture. Laboratory Course. | 4 |
| ENV 2400 |
Native Plants of Wisconsin
This course explores the plants present throughout the different regions and ecosystems of Wisconsin. Emphasis will be place on identifying native plants and their conservation. Laboratory Course. | 4 |
| ENV 3200 |
Environmental Data Analysis
This course includes the fundamentals of statistics, data exploration, and graphing with practical application to environmental sciences. Computation will use the R software environment for statistical computing and graphics. | 3 |
| ENV 4990 |
Advanced Applied Field Research
This course serves as a practical capstone experience in environmental science. The course involves individual engagement in experimental research, including experimental design, data collection, and data analysis. Successful completion of major capstone requirements includes presentation of results in paper, poster, and/or oral presentation formats. Note: Junior or senior standing required. Students may enroll in this course multiple times, up to a maximum of 4 total credits. | 1-4 |
| RSC 3020 |
Advanced Anatomy
This course is an integrated approach to the anatomy of the human body, with particular emphasis on the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and nervous systems and their application to movement and clinical conditions. Additionally, the course will include the study of cadavers, guiding the student in the identification and function of various systems. | 4 |
| SCI 2400 |
Cosmogony
This course is the study of origins. Questions regarding the origin of the physical universe and life (including human beings) will be explored and possible answers will be offered. The two possible cosmogonic models, Evolution and Creation, will be treated in-depth from a scientific perspective. The nature of science and the differences between operational science and origin science will also be investigated. The primary emphasis of this course concerns scientific evidences for origins; however, philosophical and theological evidences will also be discussed. Students must have a college-level physical or biological science course prior to taking this class. | 3 |
| Total Hours | 56 | |
- 1
With approval from the Life and Earth Sciences Department on an individual basis, a student may use a 4-credit upper-level chemistry course in place of one of the courses listed here.
- 2
No more than 4 credits of BIO 3990, BIO 4990, and/or ENV 4990 may count towards major requirements.
MPH Fast Track for Biology Majors
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| MPH Fast Track for Biology Majors (optional - will replace 15 elective credits) | 15 | |
PH 5100 |
Foundations of Public Health
This course is a foundational and broad overview to the study and practice of public health. Students will be introduced to the history, philosophy, core values, key concepts, and functions of public health across the world. After completing this course, students will be able to describe public health activities and how they as individuals might serve their community to promote health and prevent disease in their own life and future career. | |
PH 5200 |
Healthcare Delivery in the U
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the nation's healthcare system and major healthcare policy issues. This course will introduce students to characteristics of the U.S. health care systems; healthcare organizations, financing, and delivery of services. Course topics also include: the role of prevention and other non-medical factors in population health outcomes; accreditation, licensure, and regulatory agencies; and key management and policy issues in contemporary health systems. In addition, students will consider other issues related to the current US healthcare system, including health disparities and healthcare safety net. | |
PH 5300 |
Leadership and Advocacy in Public Health
The servant leadership philosophy/perspective focuses the leader on the needs of others for their, and collective, benefit and connects nicely with the ethos of the public health profession and the mission of Concordia University Wisconsin. The course will focus on leadership development within the context of public health, and its relation to meeting the needs of others and advancing the profession of public health through advocacy. | |
PH 5500 |
Epidemiology
This course will introduce students to tools and concepts in the field of epidemiology. Students will be introduced to descriptive and analytic epidemiology, determinants of health and disease in populations, and application of epidemiologic methods to disease control. The course will cover conceptual and practical issues around the design and conduct of epidemiologic research and the analysis and interpretation of data. | |
PH 5600 |
Biostatistics
Data is paramount in the ability of public health professionals to make evidence-based decisions. This course provides an introduction to biostatistical concepts and methods used in public health research and practice. Students will learn to collect, analyze, interpret, and present data to support evidence-based decision-making. The courses focuses on the practical application of statistical techniques to real-world public health problems and critical evaluation of published research, and equip students with the skills needed to conduct and assess data analyses in a public health context. | |



