2008-2009 Catalog - United States Air Force Academy

iology major
Are you interested in what makes your body function? Are you fascinated by the vast diversity of living organisms on this
planet? Does the idea of decoding a strand of DNA interest you? If so, then the Biology major is for you. This major is
designed to promote the development of the cadet’s natural scientific talents through a carefully planned program of academic
instruction, practical laboratory experience, and individual research projects.
The Biology major provides a multidisciplinary approach to the study of human performance in air and space, exercise,
biomechanics, environmental sciences, and cutting-edge cell and genetic engineering. Some students pursue specialized areas
of interest such as aviation and flight, human factors in aviation and space, athletics and sports performance, ecology, cell and
molecular biology, or professional or advanced degree preparation.
The Biology major is also very flexible, students are not limited to a specific area of study and are free to tailor a program to
meet their own interests. The Biology major can complement many careers in the Air Force, or prepare you for a career in
the health professions (such as medicine or dentistry) or in the Biomedical Sciences Crops (including aerospace physiology,
bioenvironmental engineering, and physical therapy).
Suggested Course Sequence
3rd-Class Year 2nd-Class Year 1st-Class Year
Biology 210 Aero Engr 315 Academy Opt
Chem 200 Beh Sci 310 Astro Engr 410
Chem 230 Biology 330 Biology 380
Econ 201 Biology 331 Biology 480
English 211 Biology 332 Biology Opt 2
Engr Mech 220 Biology 360 Biology Opt 3
Law 220 Biology 363 English 411
Math 356 Biology Opt 1 Human Phys Opt
MSS 200 El Engr 315 Mgt 400
Physics 215 History 302 MSS 400
Pol Sci 211 Philos 310 Sci Breadth Opt 2
S/T Energy Sys Opt Sci Breadth Opt 1 Soc Sci 412
BIOLOGY (Biology)
Offered by the Department of Biology.
Biology 210. Foundations of Biology with Laboratory. Establishes a foundation for further study in the biological
sciences. It is required for biology majors, and recommended for those pursuing advanced courses in biology (e.g., cadets
pursuing careers in the Medical, Dental, Nursing, and Biomedical Sciences Corps). Biology 210 serves as a core substitute
for Biology 315. Presents the concepts essential for understanding modern biology. Course content includes: cell biology,
metabolism, genetics, biotechnology, and evolution. Discussions address application of the scientific method, ethical issues of
modern biology, and the influence of biological factors on Air Force planning and operations. Laboratories reinforce concepts,
promote critical thinking, and introduce essential laboratory skills.
Biology 315. Introductory Biology with Laboratory. Provides an overview of biological systems, their structure and
function, covering concepts essential to understanding key issues in biology today. Students learn how biological systems are
organized and operate throughout the biological hierarchy. Decision-making based on an understanding of biological systems is
applied to Air Force operations, and to the health and fitness of the Air Force officer. Concepts are reinforced through critical
thinking exercises, hands-on activities, and laboratory experiences.
Biology 320. Biomechanics. Studies the physical, anatomical, mechanical, and physiological basis for motion focused on the
human. Explores joint and muscle physiology as a basis for functional activities. Applies physics and mechanical engineering
concepts to describe, investigate, and compare the ways we initiate and control movement. Students learn the effects
musculoskeletal injury may have on normal motion.
64 United States Air Force Academy Catalog