Anatomy & Physiology I: Course Syllabus and Core Concepts

Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the structure and function of the human body. It integrates foundational biological concepts with detailed study of body systems, emphasizing homeostasis, cellular mechanisms, and system-level organization.

Course Information

• Course Number: BIOL 130

• Course Title: Anatomy and Physiology

• Semester Credit Hours: 5.00

• Department: Biology

• Prerequisites: None

Required Texts and Materials

• Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory Manual (8th or 7th Edition) by Elaine N. Marieb, Pamela B. Jackson

• Optional: Anatomy and Physiology (OpenStax, 2nd Edition)

Technology Requirements

• Access to a computer with online capabilities for quizzes and study resources

• Ability to use class software (e.g., PowerPoint, Canvas)

Core Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

Anatomical Terminology and Body Organization

• Define anatomical position, body planes, sections, cavities, and regions.

• Use directional terms and basic anatomical terminology.

• Describe levels of organization and provide a survey of body systems.

Homeostasis and Mechanisms

• Explain the concept of homeostasis and its importance in physiology.

• Provide examples and applications of homeostatic mechanisms.

• Predict consequences of homeostatic imbalance, including disease states and disorders.

Chemistry and Cellular Structure

• Describe atoms, molecules, and chemical bonding.

• Explain inorganic and organic compounds, including pH and ATP.

• Discuss cell structure, organelles, and membrane function.

• Describe mechanisms for movement of materials across membranes.

Cell Division and Genetics

• Explain somatic cell division (mitosis and cytokinesis) and reproductive cell division (meiosis).

• Relate cell division to homeostasis and disease.

Tissues and Histology

• Identify the four basic tissue types: epithelial, connective, muscular, and nervous.

• Describe tissue anatomy, location, and function.

• Explain the structure and function of membranes and glands.

Integumentary System

• Describe the structure and function of the skin and subcutaneous layer.

• Identify accessory structures and their roles.

• Apply homeostatic mechanisms to skin health and disease.

Skeletal System

• Describe bone structure, function, and organization.

• Explain bone growth, repair, and remodeling.

• Identify major bones and anatomical features.

Muscular System

• Identify skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscle tissue.

• Describe muscle contraction mechanisms and physiology.

• Explain muscle group actions and their roles in movement.

Nervous System

• Describe the organization and function of the nervous system.

• Explain neuron structure, action potentials, and neurotransmission.

• Identify major brain regions, cranial nerves, and spinal cord anatomy.

Sensory Systems

• Describe the anatomy and physiology of the eye and ear.

• Explain sensory receptor function in vision, hearing, and equilibrium.

Endocrine System

• Identify major endocrine glands and hormones.

• Explain hormone mechanisms and regulation.

• Apply homeostatic principles to endocrine disorders.

Cardiovascular System

• Describe blood composition, heart anatomy, and circulation.

• Explain cardiac cycle, blood pressure, and hemodynamics.

• Apply homeostatic mechanisms to cardiovascular health.

Lymphatic and Immune Systems

• Identify lymphatic organs and vessels.

• Explain immune responses and antibody function.

Respiratory System

• Describe respiratory tract anatomy and ventilation mechanisms.

• Explain gas exchange and transport in the blood.

Digestive System

• Describe the structure and function of the alimentary canal and accessory organs.

• Explain digestion, absorption, and elimination processes.

Metabolism and Nutrition

• Introduce metabolism and metabolic pathways.

• Explain energy balance, thermoregulation, and metabolic roles of organs.

Urinary System

• Describe urinary tract anatomy and kidney function.

• Explain urine formation, composition, and regulation.

Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Balance

• Explain fluid compartments and movement.

• Describe mechanisms of acid-base balance and homeostasis.

Reproductive System

• Describe male and female reproductive anatomy and physiology.

• Explain reproductive cycles, fertilization, pregnancy, and development.

Important Dates

Date	Event
8/18/25	CLASSES BEGIN (Mon)
8/19/25	Last day to add first 8-week session courses without instructor permission (Tue)
8/20/25	Last day to add first 8-week session courses with instructor permission (Wed)
8/21/25	Last day for a full refund for first 8-week session (Wed)
8/25/25	Last day to add full semester courses without instructor permission (Tue)
8/28/25	Last day to enroll/add full semester courses with instructor permission (Thu)
8/28/25	Last day to enroll for Jumpstart concurrent classes (COJ) (Thu)
8/28/25	Last day for full refund for full semester courses (Thu)
9/1/25	College Closed: Labor Day (Mon)
9/4/25	Cert Rosters due at noon (Thu)
9/15/25	Last day to pay for Jumpstart classes or make payment arrangements (Mon)
9/25/25	Last day to pay for classes or make payment arrangements (Thu)
10/2/25	Last day to withdraw from first 8-week session classes (Thu)
10/9/25	First 8-week session ends (Thu)

Additional Info

• Methods of Instruction: Lectures, labs, and online resources.

• Methods of Evaluation: Exams, quizzes, lab reports, and participation.

• Grading: Based on cumulative performance in assessments and assignments.

• Attendance: Required for both lectures and labs.

• Disability Services: Accommodations available for students with documented needs.