Chair: David L. Smith
Professors: De Gennaro, Robinson
Associate Professors: Mitchell, D. Smith,
S. Smith, Szebenyi
Assistant Professor: Pritts
Adjunct Faculty: Carson, Graziano
Emeritus: Lugthart
Senior Research Scientist: Chisholm

The department of biology offers B.A. and B.S. degree programs. In addition, a biology minor is available. Students interested in graduate study in biology or in medical, dental or veterinary training should elect the B.S. program with two or more years of chemistry. Those interested in the B.A. program may elect a broad range of courses in the humanities or social sciences in place of the advanced chemistry or physics normally taken in the B.S. program. A B.S. degree with a Physician Assistant concentration is available to the successful applicant. Students are encouraged to conduct research in either biology or chemistry with faculty members and senior research scientists.

(Graduate studies, health professions, veterinary, biochemistry, minor in chemistry and other areas)

* At least seven courses in biology must involve laboratory.

** A minimum of 8 must be classroom courses as opposed to research or internship. At least 5 biology courses must be taken at Le Moyne College.

*** May take up to two extra electives.

To complete a minor in biology (15 credits), students must complete BIO 191-192 or equivalent and BIO 218 plus three hours of another biology course, none of which may be taken pass/fail. All prerequisites must be met. Courses for non-science majors are not acceptable.

(Graduate, Pre-medical, Dental, Veterinary, Biochemistry, Minor in Chemistry)

*Minimum 37 hours biology required.

(Interdisciplinary: Choice of Minor)

*Minimum 29 hours biology required. Minor in sciences, psychology, education, sociology, computer science and others; consult adviser regarding program. +Electives optional. Recommend 15 or more hours to be used to build minor concentration of choice.

BIOLOGY

BIO 103. HUMAN PHYSIOLOGICAL PROCESSES (4).

This course provides a study of the human body from combined anatomical and physiological perspectives. Laboratory sessions involve both dissection of a mammalian specimen and experiments concerned with the physiological processes of life. No prerequisite. Three hours lecture and two hours laboratory per week. This course is intended primarily for psychology majors. Students may not take BIO 103 if they have already taken BIO 107-108. Biology major credit only by permission of the biology department

BIO 105. Exercise Physiology (3).

This course studies the physiology of exercise, including concepts of work, muscle contraction, energy transformation, metabolism, oxygen debt, nutrition, and athletic performance. Emphasis is place on cardiovascular and respiratory function in relation to physical activity and training. No prerequisite. Three hours lecture/week. Does not carry biology major credit.

BIO 106. The Science of Life (3).

This course is designed to provide the experience of scientific discovery as part of our culture within the framework of the biological sciences. The goal is to have the student achieve a better understanding of nature and of human life as part of nature. No prerequisite. Three hours lecture/week. Does not carry biology major credit.

BIO 107. Anatomy and Physiology I (4).

This course provides a study of the anatomy and physiology of the various systems of the human body. The cat is the primary dissection specimen in the laboratory. No prerequisite. Three hours lecture and two hours laboratory per week. This course is intended for those who are interested in the health-related professions. Students may not take BIO 107 if they have already taken BIO 103. Biology major credit only by the permission of the biology department.

BIO 108. Anatomy and Physiology II (4).

This course provides a study of the anatomy and physiology of the various systems of the human body. The cat is the primary dissection specimen in the laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO 107 or permission of the biology department. Three hours lecture and two hours laboratory per week. This course is intended for those who are interested in the health-related professions. Students may not take BIO 108 if they have already taken BIO 103. Biology major credit only by permission of the biology department.

BIO 109 (ANT 109) Human Evolution (3).

This course draws upon human paleontology, cultural anthropology, psychology, human physiology and evolutionary biology to examine both modern human biology and culture. Issues such as mate choice, mate fidelity, aggression, "drug" dependence are just a few of the factors that were once considered to be exclusively determined by culture but which might have a more evolutionary source. For these reasons, the study of human origins has the potential to enormously impact our understanding of what it means to be human. Three hours lecture. No prerequisite. Does not carry biology major credit.

BIO 111. Ecology and the Environment (3).

This course focuses on basic ecological principles, especially the effects of human activities on our life-supporting environment. No prerequisite. Three hours lecture/week. Does not carry biology major credit.

BIO 112. Before Birth: Embryology and Fetal Development (3).

This is a basic course in human embryology. After an introduction to prenatal development, the growth of the human fetus is followed to parturition. Risks to the fetus through the use of drugs, alcohol and environmental agents are presented and discussed. No prerequisite. Three hours lecture/week. Does not carry biology major credit.

BIO 115. HORMONES AND YOUR HEALTH (3).

This course for non-science majors, designed to fulfill the core science requirement, will introduce students to the importance of appropriate hormone function to their health. Students will learn basic concepts of hormone production, release, circulation throughout the body, and how hormones are required for proper body function. Alterations of normal hormone function by environmental toxins, one's health status, and common medications will also be discussed. Three hours of lecture per week. Does not carry biology major credit.

BIO 191. General Biology I (4).

This course introduces fundamental unifying principals of biology. Topics include the scientific method, biological chemistry, classification/diversity, cell structure and function, membranes, energetics, genetics, cell division and evolution. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Biology major credit.

BIO 192. General Biology II (4).

This course, while continuing to stress fundamental unifying principles of biology, presents the mechanisms that allow all living organisms to meet the common requirements for life. Topics include cellular regulation and control; plant and animal development, form and physiology; basic characteristics of all kingdoms of life; population biology and ecology. Prerequisite: BIO 191. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Biology major credit.

BIO 218. Cell and Molecular Biology (4).

This course is designed to introduce the student to cell biology and the concepts of genetics at the molecular level. Basic concepts of cell structure and function are presented from a biochemical perspective. Topics include metabolism, membranes, cytoskeleton, motility, and replication and expression of genetic information. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192. CHM 223-224 recommended. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 225. The Poisoning of a Planet (3).

The pollution of our air, land, and water is an ecological problem of epidemic proportions. However, before we can come to grips with this menace, we must understand what we are facing. Our present situation results from economic conflicts, social attitudes, political indecision and the overuse and misuse of scientific and technological ideas. In this course, we will examine environmental issues such as resource depletion, pollution, overpopulation, and the nuclear winter. We will begin with the biological and ecological basis of these problems and then, in a multidisciplinary fashion, address the possible solutions and consequences of these issues. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 230. General Ecology (4).

This course uses an evolutionary approach to the study of the interrelationships of organisms with their environments. Topics include competition, co-evolution, population growth and regulation, demography, and predator-prey relationships. Laboratory work includes field study and basic methods for evaluation of data. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 245. Evolution (4).

The nature of the evolutionary process is studied from a number of relevant points of view, including geology, paleontology, comparative anatomy, genetics, molecular biology and anthropology. The significant influence of evolutionary concepts on human thought is discussed. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218. Three hours lecture and two hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 303 (PSY 303). Animal Behavior (4).

The mechanisms of animal and human behavior are investigated in a broad descriptive sample. Special emphasis is placed on the physiology, development and evolution of behavior patterns. Prerequisite: Eight credit hours of biology. Three hours lecture and two hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 312. Mammalian Anatomy (4).

This is a laboratory oriented course in which gross anatomy and design of the mammal is studied by techniques of dissection and observation. Emphasis is on the spatial relationship of organs and tissues. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit. Not open to students who have taken BIO 103 or BIO 107-108.

BIO 320. Genetics (4).

A course that stresses the basic concepts of Mendelian genetics, the interactions between genetic and environmental factors during development, and the foundations of population genetics and quantitative inheritance. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory weekly.

BIO 321. Embryology (4).

A course in development in which the classical approach to the study of vertebrate embryogenesis is presented in the context of developmental biology. Experimental data are underscored in the analysis of differentiation and developmental processes. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218. Three hours lecture and two hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 322. Histology (4).

Following a consideration of fundamental tissues, most of the organ systems of the mammalian body are studied showing how these systems are actually combinations of the basic tissues. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 325. Microbiology (4).

This course emphasizes bacteria, but also deals with other groups of organisms recognized as microbes. Topics include the structure, physiology, differentiation and genetics of microorganisms, as well as ecological, industrial and disease relationships. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218. CHM 223-224 recommended. Three hours lecture and four hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 326. Phycology: The Algae (4).

This course deals with the biology of the algae. Topics include taxonomy, cell structure, physiology, reproduction, ecology and evolution. The uses of algae as tool organisms and as sources of biomass for food and fuel are also discussed. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 327. BOTANY: THE BIOLOGY OF PLANTS (4).

The activities of plants support life on earth. An understanding of the biology of plants influences the welfare of humans and other animals. This course explores the diversity and basic biology of plants. Topics include classification, physiology, morphology, evolution, and life cycles. Prerequisites or corequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218, CHM 101-102. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 330. Tropical Marine Biology (4).

Tropical ecology differs in many respects from that of temperate regions. The most striking of these differences occurs in the marine environment. Semester activities will include weekly meetings in which we will examine the flora, fauna and processes that characterize tropical marine systems. The course will end with 10-14 days of intensive field work in the Bahamas, studying the principles discussed in class with special attention to field and lab work as well as an individual research project. Prerequisite: BIO 191-192 and permission of the instructor. Separate fees will be required for the field portion of the course. Not open to second semester seniors. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 340. Parasitology (4).

Parasitism is the most prevalent and one of the most biologically complex of all symbiotic relationships. Parasites historically have had and continue to have a tremendous impact on the health and welfare of humans and other animals. This course explores the diversity of parasitic organisms and the adaptations which permit them to live in or on other organisms, as well as consequences to the host. Prerequisites or corequisites: BIO 191-192 and one 200-level course. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week.

BIO 350. Invertebrate Biology (4).

This course introduces the study of invertebrate animals; classification, structure and life cycles are presented in detail. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 371 (CFM 425). Disease in Human Evolution (3).

See course description for CFM 425.

BIO 375. Introduction to Neurobiology (4).

The uniqueness of the central nervous system is explored in lectures and laboratory sessions dealing with the developmental, anatomical, and physiological aspects of neurobiology. This course is intended for biology and psychology majors and may be taken by others who are minoring in biology. Three lectures and three hours laboratory per week. Prerequisites and corequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218; CHM 223 is recommended, or by permission of instructor.

BIO 390. Independent Study in Biology (1-3).

A student may pursue a semester or more of independent study in a specialized area of biology of mutual interest to the student and one or more members of the faculty in the department. This course is for the above-average student whose interests and abilities go farther than normal course offerings. Proposals, indicating credit sought, must have approval prior to registration. Prerequisites or corequisites: 15 credit hours in biology in addition to BIO 395. Carries biology major credit for the tenth biology course. Pass/fail only.

BIO 380 (CHM 380). Scientific Literature (1).

This course is an introduction to the literature sources in the fields of science, to include science citation index, abstracts, books, American and foreign journals, reference works and on-line computer searches of scientific literature. Prerequisites and corequisites: 15 credit hours in biology and BIO 390 or BIO 499. Carries biology major credit along with BIO 390 or BIO 499. Pass/fail only.

BIO 410. Toxicology (3).

This course is designed to be of interest to students of environmental biology as well as those planning for a career in the health professions. General principles and mechanisms of toxicology, effects of exposure to different types of toxins, and various applications of toxicology will be discussed. Prerequisites or corequisites: BIO 191, 192, 218; CHM 223, 224. Three hours of lecture per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 418. Advanced Molecular Biology (4).

An advanced course in the molecular biology of cells which will examine in depth various aspects of modern molecular biology. Topics to be explored include gene regulation, molecular genetics, protein targeting, cell signaling, and cellular differentiation in development. Prerequisites or corequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218; CHM 223-224 and permission of the instructor. Two hours lecture and six hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 420. Topics in Biology (3).

This course has a seminar and lecture format to study selected questions in biology. Student participation in discussions is an important part of the course. Prerequisites: 15 credit hours in biology and permission of the instructor. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 425. Plant Physiology (4).

This course emphasizes the morphology and fundamental life processes of higher green plants. Topics include water relations, photosynthesis, responses to environmental stimuli, mineral nutrition and hormonal interactions. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218. CHM 223-224 recommended. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 431. Mammalian Physiology (4).

This course is designed to teach basic principles of mammalian physiology involving the following systems: nervous, endocrine, muscular, circulatory, excretory, digestive, immune and reproductive. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 218. CHM 223-224 recommended. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 440. Insect Ecology (4).

Insects outnumber all other species on this planet, and they have crucial roles in ecosystem structure and processes. This course explores the diversity of interactions between insects and other organisms in ecosystems, as well as insects' impact on the non-living environment. Prerequisites or corequisites: BIO 191-192, BIO 230. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 460 (CHM 460). Biochemistry I (3).

See description for CHM 460.

BIO 461 (CHM 461). Biochemistry II (3).

See course description for CHM 460.

BIO 462 (CHM 462). Biochemistry Laboratory (1).

See course description for CHM 462.

BIO 471. Perspectives on Human Life (3).

The meaning and implications of biological evolution, genetic engineering and population growth are considered in this course, with special reference to the consequences of the issues on human life. Prerequisites: BIO 191-192. Three hours lecture/week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 480. Seminar in Biology (1-3).

This seminar will offer advanced students the opportunity to further develop research and presentation skills required in graduate or medical school. Topics of the seminar will vary according to the expertise of the instructor. Students will select papers from the scientific literature for analysis and presentation. Students may be required to attend one scientific lecture off campus during the semester. Prerequisites or corequisites: Junior or senior standing plus participation in biology or chemistry research for credit or permission of the instructor. One to three hours of lecture per week. Carries biology major credit.

BIO 485 Biological Electron Microscopy (4).

This course centers on the importance of the electron microscope as an investigative tool in biological research. The theory, design and operation of the electron microscope is taken up, followed by sessions dealing with the preparation and viewing of specimens by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Prerequisites: Bio 191, BIO 192, BIO 218; CHM 223 recommended.

BIO 490. Internship in Biology (1-3).

A limited number of students observe, study or participate in a learning experience in a setting relevant to their specific interests and needs. Students take an active role in finding internship opportunities. Prerequisite: 15 credit hours in biology and permission of the department. Carries biology major credit for the tenth biology course. Pass/fail only.

BIO 499. Research in Biology (1-3).

The student conducts a laboratory investigation under the guidance of the faculty in the department. This course is for the above-average student whose interests and abilities go beyond normal course offerings. Proposals, indicating credit sought, must have approval prior to registration. Written and oral presentations of the research are evaluated by the entire staff. Prerequisites and corequisites: 15 credit hours in biology in addition to BIO 395. Carries biology major credit for the tenth biology course. Pass/fail only.

Note: A biology honors program is also available.

Director: Beth Pritts

Medical Director: James A. Longo

Pre-Clinical Coordinator:

Sheryl DiStefano

Clinical Coordinator: Deborah Renton

Assistant Clinical Coordinator:

Debra Babowicz

Working in an exciting and challenging career, the physician assistant practices medicine with the direction and supervision of a licensed physician. During the intensive training period, the physician assistant becomes competent in such medical skills as history taking, physical assessment, patient management, surgical techniques, and laboratory diagnostics.

The physician assistant is trained to manage more than 80% of the problems presenting in outpatient settings. Employment opportunities are excellent nationwide. The physician assistant profession is one of the fastest growing careers in medicine, and the demand is increasing.

The physician assistant curriculum consists of both classroom and clinical course work. Students attend clinical rotations and classroom courses throughout the full-time, two year curriculum. The basic science courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry. Medical courses include instruction in the areas of internal medicine, pediatrics, family practice, psychiatry, emergency medicine, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, and pharmacology. Clinical rotations are completed in various hospitals, clinics, and private practice settings in the greater Syracuse area.

While a college degree is not a requirement for admission to the program, applicants must have completed the required prerequisite courses by the end of the spring semester prior to entering the program. In addition, competitive applicants will have a minimum of 1000 hours of hands on experience and must demonstrate computer proficiency.

Students entering the program without a college degree must have completed 21 prerequisite courses. Upon completion of two years in the PA program, A Bachelor of Science degree in biology with a concentration in physician assistant studies is awarded.

Students entering the program who have already earned a bachelor's degree (any major, any accredited institution) will earn a Certificate of Completion in the Physician Assistant program. These students must have completed 9 prerequisite courses, which, in turn, satisfy the prerequisites of all courses in the program.

PAS 300 Medical Terminology-self study

The Le Moyne College Physician Assistant Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and the Education Department of the State of New York. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examination administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Prerequisite courses for those seeking the Certificate of Completion include the following:

BIO 191-192 Science major college biology with laboratory

BIO 312 Mammalian anatomy with laboratory or 2 semesters cat anatomy and physiology or equivalent with laboratory

BIO 325 Microbiology for science majors with laboratory

CHM 101-102 Science major college general chemistry with laboratory

PSY 101 Introductory Psychology

Quantitative requirement: two semesters of statistics or calculus, or one semester of statistics/calculus plus one semester of computer science.

Prerequisite courses for those seeking the Bachelor of Science degree include all of those listed above as well as:

BIO 218 Cell and Molecular Biology

CHM 223-224 Organic Chemistry with laboratory

HST 101/103 and HST 102/104 Western/

World Civilization

ENG 100 College Writing

ENG 200 Perspectives in Literature

ENG 300 Plays of Shakespeare

PHL 101 Philosophical Foundations

PHL 201 Philosophical Perspectives

PHL 300 General Ethics

REL 200 Religious Perspectives

BIO 305. Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4).

This is an advanced course which presents the basic applied and functional human anatomy and physiology, utilizing a system approach. This course includes both lecture and lab sessions in order for the student to develop an understanding of the integral workings of the human body. Lab sessions will use models, computer simulated software and prosected human cadavers. Body systems covered in this semester are the integumentary, special senses, respiratory, cardiovascular and digestive. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and current registration in PAS 303 and PAS 310.

BIO 306. Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4)

This is a continuation of BIO 305. This course utilizes a system approach to learning and includes both lecture and lab sessions in order for the student to develop an understanding of the integral workings of the human body. Lab sessions will use models, computer simulated software and prosected human cadavers. Body systems covered in this semester are the renal, reproductive, musculoskeletal, endocrine, nervous and lymphatic. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and successful completion of BIO 305, PAS 303 and PAS 310. Current registration in PAS 304 and PAS 311.

BIO 310. Medical Biochemistry (3).

A course designed to introduce Physician Assistant students to basic biochemical principles in the context of human physiology and pharmacology. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the PA program; BIO 191, 192; CHM 101, 102. CHM 223, 224 recommended.

BIO 400. Medical Microbiology (4).

Lectures will discuss the immune response and the role played in host defense and pathogen invasion processes. Basic concepts of immunology and a study of selected diseases will also be covered. Techniques in the laboratory exercises will include the use of rapid slide and tube tests for serologic testing, current methods for urine screening and rapid identification procedures in bacteriology. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the PA program; BIO 191, 192, 325; CHM 101, 102. CHM 223, 224 recommended.

PAS 300. Medical Terminology Exam (0).

The medical terminology self-study course is to be completed prior to the start of the Physician Assistant program. A satisfactory level of proficiency in medical terminology will be demonstrated by passing a written examination during the first two weeks of the Physician Assistant program. Prerequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program. This is a pass/fail course.

PAS 303. Pharmacology I (3).

This is an advanced course which will present the principles of pharmacology as they pertain to therapeutic agents. The principal mechanisms of action of the major groups of therapeutic agents will be discussed. The absorption, metabolism, distribution, uses, side effects, and toxicities of representative drugs will be presented. This course is closely integrated with the clinical medicine course-as major body systems are studied, their disease states and medical management will be presented. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and current registration in BIO 305, PAS 310 and BIO 310.

PAS 304. Pharmacology II (3).

This is the continuation of the PAS 303 course which will present the principles of pharmacology as they pertain to therapeutic agents. The absorption, side effects, and toxicities of representative drugs will be presented. This course is closely integrated with the clinical medicine course-as major body systems are studied, their disease states and medical management will be presented. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and successful completion of BIO 305, and PAS 303. Current registration in BIO 306 and PAS 311 also required.

PAS 310. Clinical Medicine I (5).

This is an advanced course which will introduce the student to fundamentals of history taking and physical examination. It is a comprehensive study of diseases with emphasis on etiology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic measures involved in treating medical problems. Appropriate medicine lectures in dermatology, otorhinolaryngology, pulmonology, cardiology and gastroenterology will be presented. This course will utilize a system approach and will be closely integrated with the anatomy and physiology and pharmacology courses. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and current registration in PAS 303 and BIO 305.

PAS 311. Clinical Medicine II (5).

This is a continuation of PAS 310 which will continue with the study of diseases with emphasis on etiology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic measures involved in treating medical problems. Appropriate medicine lectures in male and female genitourinary systems, musculoskeletal medicine, peripheral vascular system, neurology and endocrinology will be presented. This course will utilize a system approach and will be closely integrated with the anatomy and physiology and pharmacology courses. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and successful completion of BIO 305, PAS 303 and PAS 310. Current registration in BIO 306 and PAS 304 also required.

PAS 312. Clinical Medicine III (5).

This is a continuation of PAS 311 which will continue with the study of diseases with emphasis on etiology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic measures involved in treating medical problems. Appropriate medicine lectures and lab sessions will be presented by medical doctors, physician assistants and other appropriate health professionals. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and successful completion of BIO 305, BIO 306, PAS 303, PAS 304, PAS 310, and PAS 311.

PAS 313. Clinical Medicine IV (5).

This is a continuation of PAS 312 which will continue with the study of diseases with emphasis on etiology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic measures involved in treating medical problems. Appropriate medicine lectures will be presented by medical doctors, physician assistants and other appropriate health professionals. The final weeks of this course will consist of pre-clerkship evaluations of each physician assistant student to assure they are prepared for the clinical phase of the program. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and successful completion of BIO 305, BIO 306, PAS 303, PAS 304, PAS 310, PAS 311, and PAS 312.

PAS 402. Counseling and Public Health (3).

This is an advanced course offered to physician assistant students which will instill in the student the importance of compassion and communication in the health care field. Health appraisal, patient education and intervention counseling will be covered. Relevant public health topics and an introduction to available community and public health resources will be presented in order to familiarize the students with current psychosocial issues. Prerequisites or corequisites: Acceptance into the Physician Assistant Program and successful completion of PHL 302, ENG 411, and PSY 280.

PAS 489. Clinical Rotation - Inpatient Medicine (3).

The Inpatient Medicine rotation is a five week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in patient care of the hospitalized patient. Under supervision, the student will participate in a wide variety of inpatient care activities including medical history review, physical examination, diagnostic testing, and management within the limitations imposed by education and experience. A wide variety of acute and chronic medical problems most likely to be encountered in a primary care setting will be handled. The student will also attend rounds and special conferences, participating where possible in the elucidation of diagnosis, the formulation of therapeutic plans, and patient education. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 490. Clinical Rotation - Outpatient Medicine (2).

The Outpatient Medicine rotation is a four week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in dealing with common problems generally encountered in a family practice setting. In addition, the student will be given the opportunity to interact with patients as a primary provider and in many instances, will be dealing with additional family members as well as the patient. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 491. Clinical Rotation - Pediatrics (2).

The Pediatrics rotation is a four week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in the assessment and management of the infant, child, or adolescent presenting with an acute or chronic problem, or for routine well child care. The student will assess the clinical findings and will develop and implement treatment in collaboration with the clinical preceptor. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 492. Clinical Rotation - Obstetrics and Gynecology (3).

The Obstetrics and Gynecology rotation is a six week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in the assessment and management of the patient presenting with common obstetrical and gynecological problems and sexually transmitted diseases. The student will assess the clinical findings, and will develop and implement treatment in collaboration with the clinical preceptor. Patients will be assigned for medical history review, physical exam and diagnostic testing in preparation for a supportive role during labor and delivery or gynecological surgery. Daily rounds and conferences, with participation in the discussions of diagnostic problems and management plans is also expected. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 493. Clinical Rotation - Surgery (2).

The Surgery rotation is a four week rotation that exposes the student to the assessment and management of the patient presenting with a surgical problem. The student will assess the clinical findings and will develop and implement treatment in collaboration with the clinical preceptor. This rotation will familiarize the student with operating room techniques, various surgical procedures, pre- and post-op patient management, health services and personnel affiliated with surgery, and patient education. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 494. Clinical Rotation - Orthopedics (2).

The Orthopedic rotation is a four week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in patient care related to activities in physical medicine and rehabilitation as well as clinical orthopedics. The student will be assigned patients for medical history review, physical examination and diagnostic testing in preparation for a supportive role during surgical management of orthopedic problems and/or rehabilitative training of patients. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 495. Clinical Rotation - Emergency Medicine (2) .

The Emergency Medicine rotation is a four week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in the assessment and management of both minor and major types of problems commonly encountered in an emergency room. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 496. Clinical Rotation - Psychiatry (2).

The Psychiatry rotation is a four week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in patient care of those with psychological problems. This is accomplished by increasing the student's skill in recognition of the signs and symptoms of psychiatric problems, development of interviewing techniques and skills in supportive therapy and by increasing knowledge of appropriate medications. During clinical days and psychiatry seminars the student will present cases, submit data bases for critique, interview additional family members to better understand the nature of a patient's emotional problems, and review DSM IV categories. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 497. Clinical Rotation - Geriatrics (2).

The Geriatrics rotation is a three week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in patient care with emphasis on the unique physical and psychosocial problems of the elderly patient. Students will be involved in assessment, diagnosis, and management of assigned patients as well as participate in lectures and conferences which cover topics in gerontology. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 498. Clinical Rotation - Clinical Elective (2).

The Clinical Elective rotation is a four week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in an area of medicine or surgery that he/she might have a special interest in but were unable to experience during other clinical rotations. This is also an ideal opportunity to select an area of medicine or surgery where the student feels particularly weak. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

PAS 499. Clinical Rotation -Community Preceptorship (3).

The Community Preceptorship is a six week rotation intended to provide the student with supervised experiential training in patient care in a primary care delivery facility such as a physician's office, a health maintenance organization or a clinic. In this setting the student will put to use and further refine the knowledge, skills and techniques acquired and cultivated during the preceding months of clinical rotations. Prerequisites or corequisites: Successful completion of the didactic portion of the Physician Assistant Program and approval by the Admissions and Promotion Committee.

ENG 411. Cultural Perspectives on Medicine (3).

See course description for ENG 411. Prerequisites: Participation in the PA Program or all core courses in prior 3 years.

REL 300. Religion and Healing (3).

This study of healing in several religious traditions first of all introduces students to the study of religion. Then it guides them in exploring the plurality of healing cultures represented by both patients and practitioners. Students discuss the understandings which religions and healing systems have of the human condition, of health, and of acceptable ways of restoring health. They explore how religious commitments and practices both facilitate and inhibit processes of healing. The course is designed to make students more aware of faith positions, both explicit and implicit, which medical practitioners and patients bring to healing interactions. Prerequisite: Participation in the PA program or REL 200.

Physician Assistant students will also take a 400 level philosophy seminar. Seminars likely to be offered are listed below. Descriptions are found in the philosophy listings. In the future, Religious Studies Seminars will also be available.

PHL 401. Philosophy Seminar: Dualisms That Have Shaped Our Culture (3).

PHL 410. Philosophy Seminar: Health, Society and the Law (3).

PHL 411. Philosophy Seminar: Metaphysical Romances of the Person: Issues of Identity and Issues of Dignity (3).

OTHER PA REQUIREMENTS

PSY 280. abnormal Psychology for the Health professions (3).

See description for PSY 280 in Psychology listings.