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BI318 Genetics Syllabus and Course Overview

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BI318 Genetics: Syllabus and Course Structure

Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of genetics, covering classical, molecular, and population genetics. Emphasis is placed on problem solving, experimental design, and analysis, preparing students for advanced study and research in genetics.

  • Course Number and Name: BI318 Genetics

  • Semester: Fall 2026

  • Modality: In-person

  • Schedule: Tuesday/Thursday 9:30–10:45 AM, ORI 109

  • Credit Hours: 3

  • Prerequisite: BI 111

Instructor Information

  • Professor: Dr. Katie Burgess

  • Email: katherine.burgess@avila.edu (Preferred: Canvas Messenger)

  • Phone: 816-501-3685

  • Office Hours: ORI 210C; Monday and Wednesday 9:00–10:00 or by appointment

Course Description

BI318 Genetics explores the principles governing heredity, including inheritance, gene function, the flow of genetic information, regulation of gene expression, and population genetics. The course integrates classical and modern approaches, with a focus on experimental design and analysis.

Course Materials

  • Textbook: Concepts of Genetics, 13th Edition by Klug, Palladino, and Killian (Pearson)

  • MasteringGenetics Courseware: Accessed via Canvas at no additional cost

  • BibliU: Digital and physical materials provided through Avila’s course materials provider

Course Outcomes

  • Explain genetic processes, including inheritance, gene function, flow of genetic information, regulation of gene expression, and population genetics.

Grading and Evaluation

  • Exams: 3 exams, 100 pts each (50% of grade)

  • Quizzes: 10 pts each (10%)

  • Laboratory Assignments: Varies (15%)

  • Lecture Assignments: 10 pts each (10%)

  • Mastering Genetics Homework: Varies (10%)

  • Article Review: Varies (5%)

Grading Scale:

  • A: 90–100%

  • B: 80–89%

  • C: 70–79%

  • D: 60–69%

  • F: 59% and below

  • Plus/minus grades may be assigned

Assignment Types and Policies

  • Exams: Multiple choice, T/F, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and essay questions. Top essay responses may be shown as examples (anonymously).

  • Quizzes: In-class, 10 multiple-choice questions plus bonus, given one week prior to each exam.

  • Laboratory: Includes GMO Detection via PCR and Cancer Gene Detection. Labs require pre- and post-lab work; late submissions penalized 10% per day.

  • Article Review: Students present portions of journal articles; presentations occur on designated days.

  • Lecture Assignments: In-class and homework assignments; three lowest grades dropped at semester end.

  • Mastering Genetics Homework: Weekly assignments via Canvas; late penalty 25% per day, no credit after four days.

Course Schedule (Topics and Chapters)

Week

Topic

Reading

Assessment

1

Introduction to Genetics, DNA & RNA Structure

Ch. 1, Ch. 10

2

Chromosomes, DNA Replication

Ch. 12, Ch. 11

3

Transcription, Translation & Protein Structure

Ch. 13, Ch. 14

Quiz 1: 9/17/26

4

Present & Review

Exam 1: 9/24/26

5

Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes & Eukaryotes

Ch. 16, Ch. 17, 18, 19

6

Mutation & DNA Repair, CRISPR

Ch. 8, 15

Special Topic #1

7

Mitosis & Meiosis, Mendelian Genetics

Ch. 2, Ch. 3

8

Beyond Mendelian Genetics, Present & Review

Ch. 4

Quiz 2: 10/20/26

9

Biotechnology

Ch. 20

Exam 2: 10/27/26

10

Biotechnology, PCR Lab

Ch. 21

11

Electrophoresis Lab, Population Genetics

Ch. 26

12

Population Genetics, Special Topics

Ch. 26, TBD

13

Special Topics (Thanksgiving Break)

TBD

14

Cancer Genetics, Lab Prep/Pedigree Assignment

Ch. 24

Quiz 3: 12/3/26

15

Cancer Lab, Present & Review

16

Finals Week

Exam 3: 12/17/26

Laboratory Activities

  • GMO Detection via PCR

  • Cancer Gene Detection

  • Electrophoresis Lab

  • Labs require attendance, pre-lab, and post-lab work

Academic Integrity and Course Policies

  • Strict policies against academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, and unauthorized collaboration

  • AI use is restricted to brainstorming, outlining, and tutoring; must be documented

  • Attendance is required for in-class activities and labs

  • Late work and make-up policies are clearly defined for exams, quizzes, labs, and homework

Student Support and University Policies

  • FERPA protects student privacy

  • Student Access Services provide accommodations for disabilities

  • Free tutoring and writing support available

  • Diversity and inclusion are core values

  • Inclement weather and syllabus change policies ensure flexibility

  • Title IX ensures a discrimination-free educational environment

Course Workload Statement

For each hour spent in class, students should expect to spend approximately two hours on learning activities outside of class. For a 3-credit course, this equates to about 300 minutes per week of associated work.

Course Topics (as per schedule and textbook)

  • Introduction to Genetics

  • DNA & RNA Structure

  • Chromosomes

  • DNA Replication

  • Transcription

  • Translation & Protein Structure

  • Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

  • Mutation & DNA Repair

  • CRISPR

  • Mitosis & Meiosis

  • Mendelian Genetics

  • Beyond Mendelian Genetics

  • Biotechnology

  • Population Genetics

  • Cancer Genetics

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