Human Anatomy & Physiology I (BIOL 2401) – Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Human Anatomy & Physiology I (BIOL 2401) is the first part of a two-course sequence focused on the structure and function of the human body. This course covers cells, tissues, and organs of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and special senses systems, with an emphasis on system interrelationships and physiological regulation for homeostasis. The laboratory component provides hands-on exploration of human system components and basic physiology.

Course Structure and Learning Outcomes

Instructional Method and Credit Hours

• Instructional Method: Internet-based (INET, INETL)

• Credit Hours: 4.00

• Meeting Location: INTA-PROCEXAM

Course Content and Major Topics

The course is organized around the following major topics, each with specific learning outcomes:

• The Human Body: An Orientation

  • Definitions and subdivisions of anatomy and physiology

  • Principle of complementarity

  • Levels of structural organization

  • Organ systems and their functions

  • Homeostasis and feedback mechanisms

  • Anatomical terminology and body organization

• Tissue: The Living Fabric

  • Characteristics and types of epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues

  • Gland classification and function

  • Membrane types and functions

• The Integumentary System

  • Skin layers and subcutaneous tissue

  • Skin color, hair follicles, and glands

  • Functions of the skin

• Bones and Skeletal Tissue

  • Cartilage types and locations

  • Bone functions, structure, and classification

  • Bone histology and composition

  • Ossification and bone growth/remodeling

• The Skeleton

  • Skull, vertebral column, thoracic cage, girdles, and limb bones

  • Bone markings and functional anatomy

• Joints

  • Classification and structure of joints

  • Types of movements and synovial joints

• Muscle and Muscle Tissue

  • Types and functions of muscle tissue

  • Skeletal muscle structure and contraction mechanisms

  • Muscle metabolism and fatigue

• The Muscular System

  • Roles of muscle groups in movement

• Fundamentals of the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue

  • Nervous system functions and divisions

  • Neuroglia, neurons, and nerve structure

  • Membrane potentials and synaptic transmission

• The Central Nervous System

  • Brain and spinal cord structure and function

  • Protection and functional systems

• The Peripheral Nervous System and Reflex Activity

  • Sensory receptors, nerves, ganglia, and reflex arcs

• The Autonomic Nervous System

  • Divisions, neurotransmitters, and organ effects

• The Special Senses

  • Structure and function of the eye, ear, smell, and taste receptors

  • Pathways and mechanisms of sensation

Assessment and Grading

• Exams: 60% of course grade (multiple unit exams)

• Homework (Mastering): 20% of course grade

• Comprehensive Final Exam: 20% of course grade (covers all material; not optional)

Exam Schedule (Subject to Change)

• Exam 1: The Human Body: An Orientation, Histology, Integumentary System

• Exam 2: Skeletal System

• Exam 3: Muscular System

• Exam 4: Nervous System, Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems, Autonomic Nervous System, Special Senses

• Final Exam: Comprehensive (Lecture & Lab)

Course Policies and Academic Integrity

• Strict limitations on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for graded work

• All submitted work must reflect the student’s own understanding and effort

• Violations may result in a zero on the assignment and further academic integrity actions

Student Support and Resources

• Access to tutoring (math, writing, online), mental health resources, fitness center, library, and IT help desk

• Accommodations for students with disabilities and foster care students

• Contact information for instructor, department chair, and dean provided for academic support

Textbook and Learning Platform

• Required Textbook: HUMAN ANATOMY+PHYS.(LL)-PACKAGE, Amerman, 3rd Edition, Pearson

• MasteringA&P with Pearson eText: Required for course assignments and resources

General Education Core Objectives

• Critical Thinking: Inquiry, analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of information

• Communication Skills: Reading, speaking, listening

• Empirical and Quantitative Skills: Computer literacy, information analysis

• Teamwork: Collaboration and consideration of differing opinions

Course Image