GMS BT 104 Medical Terminology

Understanding medical terminology is fundamental for anyone working in the sciences. It is the language of the technician or researcher involved in biotechnology, biomedical investigations, or health services. Teaches the analysis and construction of medical words within a context of scientific concepts. Topics covered include anatomy, blood, cancer medicine, biotechnology, and pharmacology. (2 cr.)

GMS BT 106 Medical Terminology II

Continue building your medical vocabulary as you learn the anatomy and diseases of the following systems: digestive, urinary, nervous (including sense organs), integumentary (skin), and endocrine. (2 cr.)

GMS BT 108 Introductory Math for the Laboratory

This course introduces the fundamental math used in biomedical laboratory science. Emphasis will be placed on the metric system and scientific notation, and basic algebra, word problems, significant figures, and data presentation will also be covered. This course is suitable for students who need a refresher on math fundamentals before taking GMS BT 208. (2 cr.)

GMS BT 110 Introduction to Biomedical Laboratory Sciences

This course provides a foundation of knowledge in the biomedical and clinical laboratory sciences. Students gain a basic understanding of chemistry, biology, microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and immunology. An emphasis on scientific theory, mathematics, statistics, data collection, presentation of results, and laboratory safety will be made throughout the course. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to function in a biomedical laboratory at an entry level, understand and follow protocols, and be prepared to take more advanced scientific courses. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 160 Biotechnology I

Describes the science of biotechnology, taking the student through the history of the industry, and covers the basic science of DNA and its functions, immunology, proteins and their purification, and fundamental techniques used in the research and development of biotechnological products. An overview of drug approval by the FDA. (2 cr.)

GMS BT 170 Biotechnology II

This course will explore topics such as animal cloning, stem cell research, genetically modified plants, emerging infectious diseases, cancer therapies, vaccines, and organ transplantation. Classes will include lecture, discussions on journal articles, and student presentations. (2 cr.)

GMS BT 201 Anatomy and Physiology I

Prereq: knowledge of biology. This course provides a practical understanding of anatomic structures and coordinates this knowledge with the various functions of the human body. We will also explore regulatory processes that integrate cells, tissues, organs, and systems. Topics include: organization of the body, tissue development, and cellular structure and function as well as the integumentary (skin), skeletal, and muscular systems. The last third of the course focuses on the nervous system. The course will incorporate clinical material throughout, and laboratory exercises will correlate with the lecture material. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 202 Anatomy and Physiology II

This course is the second half of an intensive sequence designed to integrate the structure with the function of the human body. The course covers the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic and immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Students will study these systems as they relate to homeostasis and clinical disorders. Laboratory exercises on each system will be incorporated into the course materials.(4 cr.)

GMS BT 208 Math for the Laboratory

This course provides an in-depth understanding of the math used in biomedical laboratories. After reviewing fundamental math principles and basic algebra, students will learn the metric system, scientific notation, dilutions, logarithms, significant figures, data presentation, and basic statistics. Students will also learn strategies to solving word problems commonly encountered in the laboratory. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 210 Technical Writing in Clinical Research

Technical Writing for Clinical Research introduces students to the structure, content, and regulatory requirements of documents created for the clinical research industry. The course reviews the FDA regulations and ICH guidances for drug, device and biologic documents, AMA Manual of Style Guidelines, and common industry standards. Students will learn to compose study abstracts, clinical protocols, informed consent forms, and clinical study reports. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 220 Principles of Instrumentation

This course introduces students to laboratory instrumentation fundamentals. Topics include: safety; the measurement of viscosity, melting point, and refractive index. We will also explore chromatographic instruments (gas and high pressure liquid); fundamentals of method development; infra-red (IR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) principles. Statistical methods and the analysis of errors will be reviewed. Course format will include readings and presentations. (First eight weeks). (2 cr.)

GMS BT 240 Current Good Manufacturing Practices and Quality Assurance

Provides a detailed knowledge of the role of Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) and a Quality Department in the development and manufacture of biopharmaceutical products. Topics include the goals and obligations of the Food and Drug Administration, a review of the CGMP subparts, and the responsibilities of a Quality Department in ensuring product quality. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 280 Office Applications in the Laboratory

This course focuses on the management and presentation of information and data useful in laboratory research. Basic statistical concepts will be introduced and explored. Database concepts and principles will be covered while examining the differences between data and information. Students will also learn presentation development and techniques, using instructional design principles to create presentations on laboratory projects and experimental data. Students will complete laboratory projects using Microsoft Excel for statistical analysis, Microsoft Access for database management and Microsoft PowerPoint for presentation development. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 305 Introductory Biochemistry

Prereq: MET BI 105 or equivalent (biology for health sciences), and MET CH 101 or equivalent (general chemistry for health sciences), or consent of instructor.
This course is for undergraduate students familiar with chemistry and biology. Provides an overview of biochemistry to prepare students for medical school or for advanced undergraduate or general graduate science courses. Topics covered include physical properties of biological molecules; structure and function of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic aides; kinetics and mechanism of enzymatic catalysis; and metabolism. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 320 Laboratory Automation and Robotics

This course introduces students to laboratory automation fundamentals. Topics include: non-robotic automated work stations; robotic workstations and systems; high throughput technologies and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for lab automation. Optimization of organic process chemistry in automated systems (fundamentals of statistical design of experiments) will be reviewed. Course format will include readings and presentations. (Second eight weeks). (2 cr.)

GMS BT 336 Applications in Bioinformatics

This course explores the use of bioinformatics databases and software as research and educational tools. Students will use data mining tools to extract DNA and protein sequences from primary and secondary databases. Software tools will be used to compare and analyze these sequences and construct gene and protein models for solving research problems related to molecular evolution, drug discovery, and genetic bases for development and disease. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 342 Cell Biology

Prereq: general knowledge of biology.
This course will introduce students to eukaryotic cell structure and function. Topics include membrane structure, intracellular organelles, control of gene expression, cell motility and transport, cell communication and signaling, cell cycle and apoptosis, and differentiation. Students will explore the field of cell biology through readings and presentations. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 360 Auditing in Clinical Research

Clinical research auditing ensures that the rights, safety, and well being of the study subject have been protected and the clinical study data are credible. Auditing clinical trial activities provides the strict oversight of performance with the ultimate goal of having a successful submission and identifying opportunities for improvement. In this practical course, students will learn how to prepare and conduct audits, write audit observations, create an audit report, and review audit report responses. In addition, students will learn how to manage audits by an outside agency. Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and regulatory requirements will be reviewed along with exploring the concept of a quality system and the writing of audit program Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Developing an audit plan will be an emphasis. Group discussions and role-playing will be used to develop practical audit techniques. This class should prepare a student for an introductory auditing position within clinical research. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 404 Medical Virology

Focuses on techniques used to isolate and identify viral pathogens associated with human disease. Through a series of lectures, the student takes a functional approach to this subject. Covers the biology, the immune response to viral infections, the genetics of viral replication, and viral pathogenesis. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 405 Biochemistry

Prerequisite: One semester of biology, one semester of chemistry and knowledge of organic chemistry is helpful, but not required. Biochemistry is the perfect melding of basic biology and chemistry. This course focuses on the study of life at the molecular level. We will first look at the structure and function of biomolecules including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Secondly, we will analyze how biological information is stored and transferred in the cell. We will then learn about bioenergetics and the importance of energy flow in living cells and organisms. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 406 Clinical Laboratory Genetics

Advanced course (for undergraduate or graduate credit) designed for those considering a career in clinical or research genetics. Emphasis is on cytogenetics (chromosome testing), diagnosis of genetic disease at the molecular level (DNA testing), study of DNA polymorphism (i.e., paternity identity and forensic testing), and biochemical and prenatal testing. Includes some laboratory work. For those seeking graduate credit, instructor permission is required, and a term paper or class presentation will be required at the discretion of the instructor(s). (4 cr.)

GMS BT 407 Cytogenetics Laboratory

Prereq: GMS BT 406 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
This course is a sequel to Clinical Laboratory Genetics (GMS BT 406), providing students with hands-on exposure to the basic laboratory procedures involved in cytogenetics. Students obtain, culture, and prepare cells for chromosome analysis. Students learn to set up blood cultures and manipulate established cell cultures to prepare and analyze chromosomes using chromosome banding techniques, FISH, and other procedures. This course will provide a sound basis for the successful student to seek a job in clinical cytogenetics. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 408 Immunology Lecture

Prereq: one year of college biology and one year of college chemistry.
This course emphasizes the molecular and cellular interactions involved in immune response. Topics covered include antibody structure and function; applications of monoclonal antibodies in biotechnology and medicine; gene rearrangements in B and T cells; cellular cooperation and the role of MHC; tolerance; and immunopathology (hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, transplantation, AIDS, cancer immunity, and immunotherapy). (4 cr.)

GMS BT 409 Immunology Laboratory

Prereq: GMS BT 408, BT 454, or equivalent or consent of instructor.
This course will introduce students to laboratory techniques based on immunologic assays commonly used in biological and biomedical research labs. Techniques covered include Flow Cytometry (FACs), ELISA, cell sorting, cell proliferation, cell death, and migration assays. This is a practical lab course, with approximately 1/2 hour of lecture followed by 2 1/2 hours in the laboratory each class. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 411 Protein Purification and Analysis Lecture

Prereq: GMS BT 413 and BT 305 or 405 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
This course introduces students to the field of proteomics and the various methods used for studying the proteome of cells and tissues. Although the complete sequence of many genomes including the human one is known, our understanding of all the proteins encoded by these genomes is still not complete. To understand how cells work, one must study the proteins that carry out cellular functions, how the proteins interact with each other, and what they do. Proteomics is a rapidly growing research area that is concerned with the systematic, large-scale analysis of proteins. By studying global patterns of protein expression and activity and how these change during development or in response to disease, proteomics research is in a position to advance our understanding of systems-level cellular behavior. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 412 Protein Purification and Analysis Laboratory

Prereq: GMS BT 411 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
This laboratory course will cover a wide variety of conventional methods for protein isolation, purification, and characterization. Training will be provided in experimental design and approaches for isolating and purifying proteins - including selection of tissues, subcellular fractionation, analytical ultracentrifugation, isoelectric focusing, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, ion exchange chromatography, gel filtration, hydrophobic interaction chromatography, SDS-PAGE, and affinity chromatography. The goals of the course are to introduce the most important and useful concepts of protein purification and handling and to help students to develop an insight about how to work with proteins. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 413 Techniques in Molecular Biology

Prereq: a working knowledge of biology and chemistry.
Students learn the fundamentals of isolation, in vitro translation, DNA and genomic cloning, and the characterization and utilization of DNA clones. Students learn to think critically about research methodology and selection of appropriate techniques to achieve objectives. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 426 Medical Microbiology

Prereq: MET BI 105 and MET CH 101, equivalent, or consent of instructor.
Provides the student with an understanding of clinically important microorganisms. Students become familiar with the classification, pathogenicity, identification, and prevention and treatment of diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites as well as the workings of a modern clinical microbiology laboratory. Laboratory course. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 436 Human Genetics

Prereq: MET BI 105 or equivalent and GMS BT 305/405 or equivalent and Internet browser access. This course focuses on mammalian genetics and DNA structure and analysis. It is intended for students interested in pursuing a career in laboratory research in an academic or industrial setting. Topics include the molecular basis of human genetic disease, DNA structure and analysis, utilization of human genome project data, and use of Internet-based bioinformatics tools. The class includes lectures, research laboratory tours, and student presentations. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 440 OL Genetics, Ethics, and the Law
(online course)

This online course will explore the newest information in human genetics and its legal and bioethical implications. Human genetics is the most explosive field in medicine today and its present and future involve legal and ethical decisions only imagined today. The decisions that come from the issues will be presented to professionals and lay people alike. Using audio-visuals, actual cases, discussion, and lecture, this class examines cases that come straight from the headlines. Topics covered include: new reproductive techniques, genetic diseases, prenatal testing and genetic testing, DNA fingerprinting, cloning, and DNA technology. Online course only. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 442 OL Issues in Assisted Reproduction
(online course)

This online course explores the new world of assisted reproduction. Students will examine cases for their ethical and legal implications. Websites and readings will be provided so students can synthesize information into thoughtful analyses. Topics will include in vitro fertilization, surrogacy, frozen embryos, and gene manipulation. The entire process is taught online. Assignments, including case analyses, quizzes and papers, will turned in over the Internet. Online course only. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 443 Advanced Techniques in Molecular Biology

Prereq: GMS BT 413 or equivalent.
This course evaluates how cutting-edge technologies in molecular biology contribute to unraveling gene function and biological processes. Students read, discuss, and present original research papers about transcriptional regulation, intracellular signaling pathways, cell cycling, apoptosis, cancer, and DNA repair. Technologies discussed include microarrays, RNA silencing, inducible gene expression systems, reporter gene assays, mutagenesis, use of green fluorescent protein for life cell imaging, the creation of transgenic and knockout animals, the Cre/Lox system, and the use of biological databases from genome projects. Great opportunity to develop and improve your PowerPoint presentation skills. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 450 Forensic Toxicology

Explores the role of toxicology in society both as a safeguard to prevent injury from environmental chemicals and a tool in the investigations of suspicious deaths. Case studies, guest speakers, and group discussions will accompany lectures and demonstrations as students also explore the role of legal and medical communities as well as governmental agencies in dealing with issues. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 454 Cell Culture Techniques

Prereq: MET BI 105, CH 171, equivalent, or consent of instructor.
This course gives students a foundation in basic cell culture techniques used in modern cell culture labs. The topics covered will include aseptic technique, freezing and thawing of cell stocks, passage and maintenance of cells, and culture of adherent and suspension cells. Emphasis will be on practical hands-on experience and much of the class time will be devoted to laboratory work. A short lecture introduces relevant information and techniques to be performed in the laboratory. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to function in a cell culture laboratory at the level of a novice technician and be able to understand and follow basic cell culture protocols. Laboratory course. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 465 Cell Signaling in Health and Disease

Prereq: GMS BT 305 or BT 405, GMS BT 413 or equivalent, or consent of instructor.
Many pathological conditions such as diabetes and cancer are caused by perturbations in signal transduction cascades. These cascades convert extracellular signals into changes in gene expression and alterations in cell physiology. Cellular responses result from the integration of many different signals. The proteins that participate in signal transduction cascades interact in a dynamic, regulated fashion to form multi-protein complexes that allow information processing. This course will present the major signal transduction pathways and their crosstalk, as well as their contribution in maintaining cellular homeostasis. In addition, we will highlight perturbations of these pathways that could lead to development of different diseases as well as the molecular logic that underlies current and future therapies. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 484 Advanced Cell Culture Techniques

Prereq: GMS BT 413 or equivalent, basic cell culture experience, or consent of instructor
Cell culture has become an indispensable tool for all areas of biomedical science. In this course students will develop the necessary routine by taking care of particular cell lines throughout the entire course. At the same time, students will examine their cell lines using advanced techniques, such as transient and stable transfections, reporter gene assays, activation of signaling pathways, induction of cell differentiation, examination of cell cycle and apoptosis, fluorescent microscopy, and FACS analysis. At the end of the course, each group will present their findings during a poster session. Laboratory course. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 520 The Biology of Cancer

Prereq: GMS BT 413 and knowledge of cell biology and genetics or equivalent, or consent of instructor.
The course introduces students to cancer biology fundamentals. Topics include cell proliferation, cell death, the process of metastasis and tumor progression, oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, and cancer therapeutics. This class will explore the latest scientific and clinical research on cancer through readings and presentations. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 530 Introductory Pharmacology

Prereq: MET BI 105, MET CH 101, or equivalent or consent of instructor.
Introduction to the principles of pharmacology including pharmacokinetics and dose/response relationships. Major classes of therapeutic agents are covered with attention to their mechanisms of action. Addresses issues of concern in drug development and the biological bases for population variability in drug response. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 531 Clinical Trials Management

This course integrates the analysis and explanation of selected portions of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), applicable to clinical research during the new drug development process. Because the CFR is translated as written and unwritten standards, practices and guidelines, the course uses a detailed case study to interpret the CFR. Each session uses activities to translate the regulations into experiences. In order to link the classroom activities with the learners' work experiences, there will be a project and presentation on selected topics. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 540 Regulatory and Compliance Issues

This course explains the regulatory requirements for health care products: drugs, biologics, diagnostics, and devices. The focus is on U.S. FDA regulations and their impact on product development and marketing with international requirements. Recommended for students in clinical research concentration. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 550 Clinical Data Management

There is increasing importance in the clinical data management function within pharmaceutical research and development. This course will provide an introduction to the roles and responsibilities of the Clinical Data Manager. We will look at the clinical trial process from protocol approval to submission. The course focus on processes and their rationale as well as the "hands on" approach to the subject matter is ideal for new data managers and others who need to learn the basics of the profession and gain skills in attention to detail. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 560 Good Clinical Practices (GCP) in Clinical Research

Introduces the regulatory responsibilities of sponsors, monitors, and investigators conducting clinical trials. Practical information and exercises are designed for the clinical trial professional on procedures for ensuring GCP compliance from an industry perspective. Topics include: identifying and selecting qualified investigators, obtaining ethical approval to enroll patients, and initiating sites successfully. Also covers issues related to collecting required regulatory documentation, verifying high quality data, maintaining study materials accountability, and reporting serious adverse events. Group discussions and guest speakers help students learn the practical skills used in the field. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 575 Design and Conduct of Clinical Trials

Prereq: knowledge of statistics.
Covers the history and current methodologies used in the design and conduct of clinical trials. Topics include sample selection; data forms and management; patient recruitment, enrollment, and compliance; and measures of cost effectiveness. (4 cr.)

GMS BT 580 Legal and Ethical Issues in Clinical Research

Students examine the development and implementation of regulatory as well as ethical issues involved with conducting clinical trials. Topics include: use of human subjects, privacy and confidentiality, conflicts of interest, use of stem cells in research, federal laws affecting laboratories, and genetic testing of gene and therapy trials. There will also be discussions on landmark legal cases affecting laboratory scientists. (2 cr.)

GMS BT 591/592 Directed Study: Biomedical Externship

Prereq: résumé writing workshop.
Directed study for degree candidates only. Practical, hands-on experience in laboratory setting. Various credits and fee, as arranged with Director.

GMS BT 594/595 Clinical Research Practicum

Prereq: 16 credits in clinical research and permission of Director. Directed study offering exposure to the conduct of a clinical trial. Various credits and fee, as arranged with Director.