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Biology: Courses
BIOLOGY (BIOL)
1214 General Botany
A study of the morphology and life cycles of representatives of the various phyla of the plant kingdom. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 3 hours.
1314 General Zoology
A study of the dynamics of animals with emphasis on structure, function, heredity, ecology and behavior with a survey of various invertebrate and vertebrate phyla. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 3 hours.
2013 Biology I
A study of the basic unit of life: a cell, including cell structure, energy transfer, metabolic processes, reproduction and genetics. Lecture 2 hours per week and lab/discussion sessions 2 hours per week. Not applicable for credit in a science major other than Science Education.
2023 Biology II
Prerequisite: BIOL-2013.
A survey of organisms, emphasizing biological diversity and ecological relationships between organisms. Lecture 2 hours per week and lab/discussion sessions 2 hours per week. Not applicable for credit in a science major other than Science Education.
2033 Nutrition
Astudy of basic principles of human nutrition applied to health and diseases of the individual, family, and community. Course topics include biochemical aspects of nutrients, nutrient needs throughout the life cycle, and medical nutritrion therapy and its role in different medical conditions.
2114 Cellular Biology
Prerequisite: CHEM-1115 with a C or better.
An introductory course in cell biology, including a study of water as a biological solvent, biomolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids), light and electron microscopy, cell structure, the cell cycle and mitosis, cell metabolism, DNA replication, transcription and translation, elementary genetics and topics in molecular genetics and genetic engineering. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 3 hours.
2244 Human Anatomy
Prerequisite: 4 hours biological science.
A study of human body at cell, tissue, and organ system levels. Course topics include cells, tissues, and anatomical structures of the major organ systems including integumentary, skeletal and muscular, nervous, cardiovascular system, digestive system, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. Lab experience includes observation of histological slides, use of models, and fetal pig dissection. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 3 hours.
2314 Genetics
Prerequisite: BIOL-2114 with a C or better.
A study of the principles of heredity and variation with emphasis on Mendelian genetics, genetic aberrations, molecular genetics and current genetics research. Lab experiences reinforce
concepts of heredity through genetic mating, statistical analysis of data and methods of DNA isolation, manipulation and analysis. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 3 hours.
2523 Anatomy and Physiology I
Prerequisite: BIOL-2013.
This course is part one of a two part comprehensive study of human anatomy and physiology at the cell, tissue, and organ system levels. Course topics include cells, cellular metabolism, and tissues, as well as the structure and function of the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system. The course includes an integrated laboratory which includes hands-on experimentation and animal dissections. Lecture/laboratory – 4 hours.
2623 Anatomy and Physiology II
Prerequisite: BIOL-2523.
This course is part two of a two part comprehensive study of human anatomy and physiology at the cell, tissue, and organ system levels. Course topics include blood components, as well as the structure and function cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, digestive system, respiratory system, urinary system, and reproductive system. The course includes an integrated laboratory which includes hands-on experimentation and animal dissections. Lecture/laboratory – 4 hours.
2625 Principles of Microbiology
Prerequisite: BIOL-2013 and CHEM-1104.
A study of the microbes, parasites, and infectious elements (e.g., viruses, prions) including the fundamentals of chemistry as applied to metabolism, cell structure and activity of antimicrobial agents. The student will gain a thorough understanding of the practical implications of public
health microbiology including microbial control in sanitation, epidemiology and a thorough knowledge of host defenses including details of the immune system function, virulence, immunology and histopathology. The course will also cover a practical application of microbiology in medical testing, vaccination, and treatment of disease. Lecture- 3 hours; laboratory- 4 hours.
3115 Human Anatomy with Cadaver Dissection
Prerequisite: Minimum of 64 completed undergraduate credit hours and completion of either general zoology or cellular biology with a grade of B or better.
A study of the gross anatomy of the body. Emphasis is given to the skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal and reproductive systems. Lab experience includes dissection of the major regions of a human cadaver. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 6 hours.
3214 Environmental Health
Prerequisite: CHEM-1115 or CHEM-1314 with a C or better.
An introductory course in environmental health encompassing a comprehensive survey of major environmental issues related to personal and community health, including population
dynamics, environmental toxins, and environmental degradation. Integrated lecture/lab - 4 hours.
3224 Human Physiology
Prerequisite: BIOL-1314 with a C or better.
A study of the human organism. Emphasis is given to the normal function, regulatory mechanisms and coordination of the neuromuscular, cardiovascular, excretory, digestive, respiratory, endocrine and reproductive systems. Laboratory experience includes use of the physiograph to demonstrate ECG and EMG, blood counting and identification, spirometry, and CPR training. Lecture – 3 hours, laboratory – 3 hours.
3233 Exercise Physiology
Prerequisite: BIOL-3224.
A study of the principles of exercise physiology. The response, adaptation and regulation of the human body during exercise will be examined, from the cellular to the systemic level. Applications to physical training, health, performance and assessment will be emphasized.
3324 General Ecology
Prerequisite: BIOL-1314 with a C or better.
General principles of biotic and abiotic interrelationships, including conservation biology. Field work emphasizes local ecosystems and pollution factors. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 3 hours.
3415 General Microbiology
Prerequisites: BIOL-2114 or BIOL-2013 and BIOL-2023 with a C or better.
Astudy of the structure and function of viruses, rickettsiae, bacteria, fungi, protozoans, flatworms and roundworms. Special emphasis is given to the isolation, culturing, staining, control and pathogenesis of the organisms. The genetics, host parasite relations and the immune response are also stressed. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 4 hours.
3435 Pathogenic Microbiology
Prerequisite: BIOL-3415 or equivalent with a C or better.
A study of pathogenic microorganisms and the diseases 0they produce in humans. Emphasis is on the physiology, pathogenesis and epidemiology of specific microorganisms, including host responses. Laboratory studies involve culture, identification and control of microorganisms. Also included are basic immunologic concepts and serologic techniques. Lecture – 3 hours; laboratory – 4 hours.
3514 Ornithology
Prerequisite: BIOL-1314 with a C or better.
The natural history of birds with emphasis on U.S. species including avian ecology, anatomy and physiology. Lab experiences are built around field trips devoted to species identification
and behavior. Lecture –3 hours; laboratory – 3 hours.
4014 Biochemistry I with Lab
Prerequisite: CHEM-3124.
A detailed study of the structure and function of the major classes of biomolecules including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. The course also includes in-depth discussions of enzyme mechanisms and catalysis, receptor/ligand interaction, cellular signaling pathways, molecular motors, and membrane structure and function. The laboratory provides basic biochemical techniques, including differential centrifugation, chromatography, oxidation studies, enzymology, and electrophoresis. Lecture – 3 hours, Laboratory – 3 hours. (Same as CHEM-4014.)
4123 Biochemistry II
Prerequisites: BIOL-4014.
A detailed overview of intermediary metabolism, including discussion of glycolysis, Krebs cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, amino acid synthesis and catabolism, the urea cycle and nucleotide biosynthesis. Lecture – 3 hours. (Same as CHEM-4123.)
4213 Immunology
Prerequisite: BIOL-3415.
A study of advanced principles of immunology. The nature of the immune response mechanisms, immuno-genetics, diseases of the immune system and applications of immunology in medicine and research are emphasized. Lecture – 3 hours.
4223 Molecular Biology
Prerequisites: BIOL-4014.
An advanced study of molecular biology and genetics with emphasis on the structure, function and mechanisms of the molecules involved in replication, recombination, transcription, RNA processing, translation and gene expression. Lecture – 3 hours.
4302 Molecular Biology Lab
Prerequisite: BIOL-4223 or concurrent enrollment.
The student will use standard laboratory techniques to conduct an independent research project that attempts to answer a pertinent question in the area of molecular genetics or cell biology. Laboratory – 6 hours.
4311 Ichthyology Lab
Corequisite: BIOL-4313 or permission of the instructor.
Experience in collection, identification and dissection of fishes, emphasizing how the morphology of a fish is related to its ecology. Field trips. Laboratory – 3 hours.
4313 Ichthyology
Prerequisite: BIOL-1314 with a C or better or permission of instructor.
A course covering the ecology, distribution patterns, anatomy and taxonomy of fishes. Conservation and sport fishing issues will also be included. Lecture – 3 hours.
4411 Introduction to Research
Prerequisites: CHEM-3115 and 8 hours biological science.
An introduction to scientific research in one of several laboratories at or affiliated with Oklahoma Christian. Students spend time in research laboratories observing current biological, chemical, biochemical or biomedical research. Research techniques, methods and selected research papers from the laboratories visited are discussed at a monthly research seminar.
4412 Undergraduate Research
Prerequisites: Junior or Senior standing, BIOL-4411 and permission of the instructor.
A hands-on experience in research at one of several laboratories at or affiliated with Oklahoma Christian. The research experience involves reading appropriate research papers, learning appropriate research methods and participating in appropriate seminars. Selection for undergraduate research is competitive and dependent on the number of student applicants, participating laboratories and funding.
4414 Undergraduate Research
Prerequisites: BIOL-4411 and permission of the instructor.
A full-time research experience lasting at least 8 weeks in a laboratory at or affiliated with Oklahoma Christian or approved by the instructor. Research programs are competitive, and applications must be submitted by February 1.
4513 History and Philosophy of Science
Prerequisite: 16 hours biological science.
A survey of the great philosophies of the Western tradition and their influence on the history of science. Specific application will be made to the ethical dilemmas of current science. Lecture – 3 hours.
4814 Field Medicine Practicum
Practical experience in assisting a physician at a medical missions clinic as part of the student’s enrollment in an international studies program. Prerequisites: satisfactory standing in pre-medical studies and selection by the science faculty in cooperation with the International Studies Committee.
4900 Independent Study in Biology
Assigned research, readings and reports based on the needs of the individual student. May be taken only by junior or senior science majors with approval of the departmental chair. (1-3 hours)
MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY (MEDT)
Prerequisite for all medical technology courses: admission to clinical training. Courses are taught off campus at clinical sites.
4117 Clinical Microbiology
The theory and laboratory study of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, rickettsiae, fungi and parasites. Isolation, identification, antimicrobials susceptibility testing and medical significance.
4125 Clinical Chemistry I
The theory and laboratory methodology of analytical biochemistry, clinical microscopy, routine and special procedures and medical significance.
4236 Clinical Hematology
Systematized study of disease, cell maturation and function, principles of hemostasis, methodology used in routine an special hematology studies and correlation of hematological findings with physiological conditions.
4246 Clinical Immunology
The theory of immunologic responses and procedures used in serological determinations; the study of immunohematology, fundamentals of antigen-antibody reactions, blood groups and types, compatibility testing, blood components and the laboratory methods used as they relate to the medical significance of immunohematology; immunology and infectious diseases.
4325 Clinical Chemistry II
The theory and laboratory methodology of analytical biochemistry, instrumentation, laboratory mathematics, routine and special procedures, and medical significance.
4351 Topics in Medical Technology
Principles and practices of the medical laboratory including basic management, quality assurances, special education methodology, computer applications, laboratory safety, and special projects in selected areas.
GENERAL SCIENCE (GNSC)
1711 Freshman Science Seminar
A seminar course for all freshman natural science majors, introducing students to careers in science, methods and opportunities for research, science faculty and tutoring programs.
2133 General Physical Science
Prerequisite: MATH-1143.
A survey course including basic physics, chemistry, astronomy, and the philosophy of science. Hands-on laboratory exercises are integrated into the course. 4 hours per week.
2313 Physical Science I: The Earth
An introduction to the study of the Earth, emphasizing processes that shape and change the surface. This course studies the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere, including effects of pollution and remediation efforts. Hands-on laboratory exercises are integrated into the course. 4 hours per week. (Same as GEOG-2313.)
2323 Physical Science II: Astronomy
Prerequisite: GNSC-2313.
A sequel to GNSC-2313, studying the fundamental concepts of astronomy. This course includes historical perspectives as well as current interpretation of celestial phenomena. The course compares and contrasts other planets to the Earth and examines stars and stellar life cycles, galaxies, and theories of cosmology. Hands-on laboratory exercises are integrated into the course. 4 hours per week.
2711 Sophomore Science Seminar
Prerequisite: GNSC-1711 or permission of instructor.
A seminar course introducing students to classic scientific literature and forms of research presentation. Students will also attend departmental lectures and participate in career planning and assessment of readiness to begin upper level science course work.2 hours per week.
3711 Junior Science Seminar
Prerequisite: GNSC-2711.
A seminar course with emphasis on reading and evaluating primary scientific literature. Students will make presentations and participate in sessions with students enrolled in GNSC-4711. 2 hours per week.
4712 Senior Science Seminar
Prerequisite: GNSC-3711.
A seminar course requiring research and oral presentation of a paper from students’ major area. Students will also participate in assessment, mentoring and service learning. 2 hours per week.
4721 Science Modeling and Strategies
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior level, science education major
The course is designed to fulfill NST requirements for secondary science education majors. During this course, each student will complete a science portfolio based on competency based artifacts as proof of concept mastery. This portfolio consists of five different modules and sixteen assignments, each addressing a specific NST standard. Student teaching may not be started until the student has successfully completed this course.
4850 Science/Engineering Service Learning
Provides an opportunity for learning in a service environment. Students select a service project and work with a faculty mentor to develop the academic background, assignments and reflection to create a unique learning opportunity. One hour of class time each week will be devoted to meeting with mentors and other students to discuss the project. Variable credit (one to three hours) will be given based on the number of service hours and academic responsibilities. (Same as ENGR-4850.)
NURSING (NURS)
1011 Introduction to Nursing
An introductory nursing course designed to acquaint the student with nursing from a historical perspective from the beginnings of the profession to current professional developments in the industry. Students will be introduced to nursing trends and changing national and global health care delivery methods. Lecture - 1 hour.
2003 Health Assessment
Prerequisites: BIOL-2013, BIOL-2523 and CHEM-1104
Course focuses on the nursing process and how clinical diagnosis is performed. Students will learn to assess the client’s physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions as a foundation to nursing care. The skills of interviewing, documentation, inspection, percussion, palpation, and auscultation are refined to make clinical judgments and promote health client outcomes. Lecture – 2 hours; Clinical – 1 hour.
2013 Fundamentals of Nursing
Prerequisite: NURS-2003
An introductory course emphasizing nursing skills and nursing process. Nursing theory and concepts related to the human response to illness will be explored. Emphasis is placed on the development and integration of therapeutic communication skills, nurse-client relationships, developmental needs, cultural diversity and legal/ethical issues. Lecture – 3 hours, Clinical – 2 hours.
2033 Pharmacology
Prerequisites: BIOL-2013, BIOL-2523 and CHEM-1104
Course is designed as an introduction to pharmacological principles, drug classifications, and expected therapeutic outcomes associated with drug therapy. Nursing process and drug therapy are discussed in relation to clients’ developmental levels and health habits across their lifespan. Lecture – 3 hours.
3013 Pathophysiology
Prerequisites: BIOL-2013, BIOL-2523 and CHEM-1104
A course studying the alterations in physiological well-being across the lifespan as pathological responses to disease, stress, genetics and environmental changes occur within the body. Critical thinking, research findings, and scientific knowledge are applied to analyze individual outcomes throughout the course. Lecture – 2 hours.
3014 Mental Health Nursing
Prerequisites: acceptance into nursing program.
A course introducing the student to basic mental health nursing content as applied to individuals, families, and community groups. Through the application of the nursing process, students learn to provide complex therapeutic nursing interventions for a variety of mental health disorders. Continued development of communication skills, professionalism, teaching/learning principles, ethical/legal, and economic issues are incorporated throughout the course. Lecture – 2 hours; Clinical – 2 hours.
3015 Adult Nursing I
Prerequisites: acceptance into nursing program.
A course focusing on medical-surgical nursing care of culturally diverse adult patients across the lifespan who are experiencing chronic health problems and end-of-life issues. The concept of caring is emphasized with a focus on individuality and cultural diversity. Implementation of the nursing process in a health care setting will focus on using basic teachinglearning principles for practice. Lecture - 3 hours; Clinical – 2 hours.
3024 Maternal-Infant Health Nursing
Prerequisites: NURS-3005, NURS-3013, NURS-3014 and NURS-3015.
A course focusing on concepts and implementation of professional nursing care for women in their childbearing years and their families. This course encompasses knowledge of growth and development, cultural diversity, assessment techniques and pathophysiology of childbirth. Lecture 2 hours; Clinical – 2 hours.
3025 Adult Nursing II
Prerequisites: NURS-2013, NURS-3013, NURS-3014 and NURS-3015.
A course which builds upon the medical-surgical concepts learned in dult Nursing I. This course focuses on caring for adult patients experiencing selected health problems across the lifespan within the acute care environment. Families and community groups will be incorporated while studying individuals with common, acute disorders. Through application of the nursing process, students learn to provide complex therapeutic nursing interventions while using critical thinking skills. Lecture – 3 hours; Clinical – 3 hours
3034 Health Care Missions and Christian Service
A course designed to focus on Christian concepts and principles as applied to global health service. Participation in health care delivery system of selected communities or countries is an integral component. Lecture – 2 hours; Clinical – 1 hour.
4005 Community Health Nursing
Prerequisite: Senior standing in nursing
A course focusing on organization and delivery of nursing care to individuals, families and groups in a variety of community health care settings. Emphasis is placed on prevention of disease, health promotion, and control of communicable disease within the community. Lecture – 3 hours; clinical hours - 2.
4011 Capstone in Nursing
Prerequisite: Senior standing in nursing
A synthesis course within the nursing program. Students develop an outcome report of their learning experiences which combine theory content and computer technology. Lecture – 1 hour.
4015 Child and Family Health Nursing
Prerequisite: Senior standing in nursing
A course focusing on concepts of professional nursing care and implementation of the nursing process with children and their families. Emphasis of developmental variances, cultural diversity, family dynamics, and pathophysiology of childhood diseases are incorporated throughout the course. Lecture – 3 hours, clinical – 2hours.
4022 Issues and Trends in Nursing
Prerequisite: Senior standing in nursing
A theory course which addresses moral, ethical and legal issues within the nursing profession. The student’s transition into professional nursing practice will be addressed, including career planning and the student’s professional role for future practice. National achievement exams will be an integral component of this course in preparation and review for NCLEX. Lecture – 2 hours.
4024 Leadership and Management in Nursing
Prerequisite: Senior standing in nursing
An introduction to the concepts of leadership and management principles related to nursing practice for preparation for role transition from student to graduate. This course includes a concentrated senior precepted clinical experience in a selected practice area with 24-30 clock hours each week. Lecture – 2 hours; Clinical – 2 hours
4025 Adult Nursing III
Prerequisite: Senior standing in nursing
A course focusing on nursing care of adult patients across the lifespan who are experiencing complex, multi-system health problems and life-threatening illness or injuries. Emphasis is
placed on interdisciplinary collaboration and on psychological, cultural, social, economic, and spiritual concerns of patients and their families. dvanced technology, assessment skills, and collaborative practices are explored. Lecture – 3 hours; Clinical – 2 hours
4033 Nursing Research
An introduction to the research process and its application to nursing practice. Emphasis on the role of the professional nurse in critiquing and using of nursing research. Critical thinking skills and the research process are applied to the development of a group research project. Lecture 3 hours.
Faculty Facts
Dr. Timothy VanWagoner, Professor of Biology, works at OC "to be a positive role model and mentor for students in order to encourage more people of faith to be actively engaged in the sciences." His research interests include pathogenicity factors in bacterial infectious diseases, bioinformatics, and bioethics.
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