Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology: Pre-Dentistry Emphasis
Pursue a Dentistry Career Path With GCU’s Pre-Dentistry Courses
The Bachelor of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Dentistry at Grand Canyon University can prepare you to seek acceptance into graduate study programs such as dental medicine and other related degree programs. This BS in Biology: pre-dentistry emphasis is tailored for individuals who aspire to pursue a career in dentistry. If you are passionate about biological sciences, this program is designed to equip you with a solid academic background in biology while specifically preparing students for the challenges and demands of dental school.
GCU’s on-campus pre-dentistry courses cover science content and topics for the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) and other graduate school entrance exams. With an emphasis on hands-on learning experiences, the biology pre-dental coursework can prepare you with the knowledge, skills and academic readiness to pursue graduate studies, dental school and contribute to the field of dentistry with a strong biological foundation.
Offered through the College of Natural Sciences at GCU, this pre-dentistry emphasis requires 120 credits to completion and the on-campus courses are generally 15 weeks each.
Benefits of Earning a BS in Biology With a Pre-Dentistry Emphasis
When you earn your biology pre-dental emphasis at GCU, you have the opportunity to gain core competencies in healthcare and science-related topics. This may allow you to meet the prerequisites for applying to dental school.1 You can prepare to make positive contributions to your community by promoting the health of your future patients. At GCU, we offer a college education rooted in the biblical teachings of Christ. Our faith-integrated courses emphasize servant leadership, ethical decision-making and professionalism.
Loading Form
Study Healthcare Disciplines and Scientific Foundations to Prepare for Dentistry School and Careers
The biology pre-dentistry courses at GCU teaches rigorous curriculum that delves into fundamental biological concepts, laboratory techniques and research methodologies. You will be taught the intricate systems of life, from cellular processes to organismal behavior. To further prepare you to make positive contributions to the dental field, the coursework in this degree is separated into five different domains:
- Science Foundations
- Scientific Communication
- Professionalism and Ethics
- Data Analysis and Interpretation
- Advanced Pre-Dental Concepts
This program also covers topics and competencies that include, but not limited to:
- Effective communications that are appropriate for diverse audiences
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Global awareness and ethics in healthcare designed to develop appreciation and empathy for diversity
- Pre-calculus skills, including systems of equations and matrices
- Probability, descriptive and inferential statistics and hypothesis testing
- Psychological studies as they pertain to the social and group factors that can influence individual behavior
In GCU’s pre-dentistry courses, you will be taught foundational STEM knowledge in biological sciences, physical sciences, social sciences and general human health issues. With the bonus of a liberal arts education, you will also have opportunities to develop skills in interpersonal and intercultural communication, and investigate the psychological, spiritual and physical components of health, wellness and medical intervention.
Typically, most dental schools require applicants to successfully complete at least two semesters of:1
- Biology
- General chemistry
- Organic chemistry
- Physics
Some dental schools may require additional courses in English composition and advanced biology courses, such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology and biochemistry. Many schools encourage you to complete courses in the arts and social sciences, such as psychology and ethics.1 Be sure to research the dental school you wish to attend, as prerequisites may vary from school to school.
Complete Prerequisites Needed for Dental School Applications
The pre-dentistry emphasis curriculum at GCU can teach you the knowledge, skills and practical readiness to be able to approach your entrance exams and future coursework in dental school with confidence. Our knowledgeable faculty teach pre-dentistry courses that cover most topics you might see on the DAT. GCU’s faculty offer mentorship and advising that can help prepare you to apply to dental school or other biology-related graduate programs.
The courses in this BS in Biology degree examine a range of topics that include:
- Biological concepts, including the relationship between structure and function at the molecular and cellular levels of organization
- The principles of microbiology, including microbial cell structure and immune response
- Human anatomy and physiology, including tissues, the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system
- The principles of biochemistry, such as the composition, structure and functions of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates
- Mendelian, molecular and population genetics
- Neurobiological concepts including the structure and function of the nervous system
- Specialized coursework in head and neck anatomy
Earn Biology and Pre-Dentistry Competencies in Relevant Courses
BS in Biology: Pre-Dentistry Career Paths to Consider
Dentists play an important role in supporting the oral health of their patients.2 Whether it’s providing general maintenance or specialized care in orthodontia, gum disease and oral surgery, dentists are essential for helping patients enjoy good oral health.2
If you are considering a dentistry career path, examine how you want to practice and the work environment that best suits you. Some dentists practice alone or with a small staff in their own businesses. Others work in dental offices with partners, or as associate dentists for established practices. There are many different types of dentistry jobs to consider. Some positions are considered entry-level, while others will require additional schooling and credentials.
Common careers you have the opportunity to pursue with a BS in Biology: pre-dentistry emphasis may include more than the dental industry, such as:
- Biological scientist
- Life scientist
- Forensic science technician
If you’re interested in starting on the dentistry career path, this degree may be the first step toward your goal.
Learn About GCU’s University HLC Accreditation
GCU is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an independent organization that provides a comprehensive review of various components of an institution. HLC accreditation ensures that the degree you are pursuing is high quality, with an approved curriculum. To learn more about GCU’s accreditation, visit our Accreditation page.
Bachelor of Science in Biology: Pre-Dentistry Emphasis FAQs
Before deciding whether a pre-dentistry emphasis is right for you, it’s helpful to learn more about the degree requirements and get answers to some frequently asked questions. Use the following answers to help you make an informed decision.
The first step to pursuing dental school is completing your bachelor’s degree. According to an article by the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), some other tips you may want to consider when preparing for dental school include:3
- Seek out job shadowing opportunities.
- Understand academic requirements for application acceptance.
- Research various schools and programs.
- Connect with current dental school students, if possible, to ask them about their experiences.
While pre-dentistry and dental hygiene are both dental career-focused, they are distinct. A predentistry focus is designed to equip you with the general health and anatomy knowledge that can prepare you to apply to a dental school with the goal of becoming a dentist.4 Meanwhile, dental hygiene is a separate career in itself, with dental hygienists earning a degree specifically in dental hygiene, which is typically an associate’s degree.5 Dental hygienists use a variety of tools to help patients keep their teeth and gums healthy.5
Some pre-dental students choose various science-related undergraduate majors such as biology, physics or chemistry to fulfill pre-requisite courses and gain a solid science background before pursuing dental school. However, a bachelor’s degree with a pre-dentistry emphasis not only provides the necessary science background, but also introduces you to topics and concepts of dentistry that may help you apply for dental school.
This pre-dentistry focus at GCU requires you to take pre-calculus as part of the general education curriculum. You will also be required to complete other various math-related courses, including algebraic applications and statistical probability. Although there are differences, a pre-dentistry concentration will generally have an emphasis on both science and mathematics. It’s important to know that pre-dentistry emphasis requirements may vary their curriculum requirements. Be sure to research the program and school you wish to attend.
Dental schools typically do not have a strict preference for a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree when it comes to admissions. What matters more is the coursework you've completed and the overall strength of your application. It's important to meet the prerequisites for dental school, which often include specific science courses regardless of whether you have a BS or BA.1 Achieving a strong GPA, performing well on the DAT, gaining relevant experience and presenting a well-rounded application that showcases your commitment and suitability for a career in dentistry can make you a good dental-school candidate.
Although both pre-dental and dental hygiene degree programs focus on oral health, they aren’t quite the same. A pre-dentistry emphasis typically focuses on coursework that prepares students for dental school, whereas dental hygiene programs are more tailored to providing the specific skills and knowledge needed for a career as a dental hygienist. Most states require aspiring dental hygienists to obtain licensure, although licensure requirements can vary by state.5
If you’re passionate about promoting oral health and wellness, apply today for enrollment in GCU’s biology pre-dental program. Prepare to pursue further studies at a dental school with a solid foundation in science-related competencies.
Explore Emphasis Options
1 American Dental Education Association. (n.d.). Prerequisites. Retrieved August 11, 2023.
2 American Dental Education Association (n.d.) Future Dentists. Retrieved August 14, 2023.
3 American Dental Education Association. (n.d.). Preparing for dental school. Retrieved August 11, 2023.
4 Learn.org. (n.d.). Pre-dental schools and courses. Retrieved August 11, 2023.
5 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). How to become a dental hygienist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved August 11, 2023.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Required General Education Courses
Course Description
This course is designed to prepare learners to integrate fundamental mathematical concepts with the critical and quantitative thinking needed to solve workplace-related problems. The course is founded upon a functional and technological approach to algebra. Topics include functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions; algebraic and exponential equations; and probability. Emphasis is placed on developing students’ understanding of mathematical representation and logical reasoning to solve real-world problems. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-110.
Course Description
This course is an introduction to technical and scientific writing in fields such as engineering, biology, computer science, and other STEM disciplines, and provides students with a background in logic and communication. In accordance with the Council of Writing Program Administrators Outcomes Statement and the Elon Statement on Learning Transfer, this course provides practice with a variety of scientific genres of communication, including their expected writing styles and structures. This course supports students in the ability to transfer knowledge of writing across technical and scientific disciplines and adapt to new and different writing tasks throughout their careers in the sciences.
Course Description
This course presents the fundamentals of algebra and trigonometry with some applications; it provides the background and introduction for the study of calculus. Topics include review of linear equations and inequalities in one and multiple variables; functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; systems of equations and matrices; and sequences and series. Slope and rate of change are introduced to set up the concepts of limits and derivatives. There is an emphasis on both an understanding of the mathematical concepts involved as well as their applications to the principles and real-world problems encountered in science and engineering. Technology is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-134 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course provides a study of social and group factors affecting individual behavior. Attention is given to the development of attitudes, roles, norms, group processes, aggression and cooperation, persuasion, stereotypes and prejudices, and social awareness. The role of culture in social processes is emphasized.
Core Courses
Course Description
This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function, particularly at the molecular and cellular levels of organization. Cell components and their duties are investigated, as well as the locations of cellular functions within the cell. The importance of the membrane is studied, particularly its roles in controlling movement of ions and molecules and in energy production. The effect of genetic information on the cell is followed through the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. Co-requisite: BIO-181L.
Course Description
This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-181 through experiments and activities which complement and enhance understanding of macromolecules, cell membrane properties, cellular components, and their contribution to cell structure and function. Assignments are designed to relate cellular processes such as metabolism, cell division, and the flow of genetic information to cell structure. Co-requisite: BIO-181.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the analysis skills required for scientific problems. Students will study approaches on inquiry, reasoning, and logic as applied to science, the systematic use of data to make critical decisions, and the expectations of science careers in healthcare or research.
Course Description
This course, designed for Science majors, introduces the principles of microbiology and the study of the general characteristics, growth, and diversity of microorganisms. Topics include microbial cell structure and function, bacterial genetics, immune response and immunization, physical and chemical control of microorganisms, specific characteristics and mechanisms of antimicrobial medications, and microbial diseases with emphasis on pathogenesis, epidemiology and treatment. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-215L.
Course Description
The General Microbiology laboratory supports further learning surrounding principles gained in the lecture. Students develop fundamental skills in microbiological laboratory techniques, microscopy methodologies, molecular methods of detection, and the isolation and identification of pathogenic microorganisms. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-215.
Course Description
This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-113 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of density, classification of chemical reactions, the gas laws, determination of enthalpy change using calorimetry, and determination of empirical formula. Co-Requisite: CHM-113.
Course Description
This course examines human anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on function and homeostasis of the following areas: tissues, integument, skeletal system, muscular system, and the nervous system. Case studies are utilized to reinforce physiological processes. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-210L.
Course Description
This course involves study of the gross anatomy and function of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. This experiential lab involves an advanced exploration of concepts utilizing human cadavers and other supplemental materials. Co-Requisite: BIO-210.
Course Description
This course is a study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-111L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-111 lecture course. Learners are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-111.
Course Description
This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels of organization. Relationships of different life forms are studied, noting characteristics and general lifecycles of the different types of organisms, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. Plant structure, function, and reproduction are studied, as well as photosynthesis and plant nutrition. Ecological principles are discussed, including organism interactions at the various ecological levels. Principles of conservation are introduced. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-182L.
Course Description
This lab is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-182. Organisms are examined to recognize similarities and differences among different types. Plant structure and processes, including photosynthesis and water transport, are investigated through observation and activities. Concepts of ecology are explored through study of species interactions projects and other activities. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-182.
Course Description
This is the second course in a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students are able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.
Course Description
This course examines human anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on function and homeostasis of the following systems: endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive. Case studies are utilized to reinforce physiological processes. Prerequisites: BIO-210 and BIO-210L. Co-Requisite: BIO-211L.
Course Description
This course involves study of the gross anatomy and functions of the endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and reproductive systems. This experiential lab involves an advanced exploration of concepts utilizing human cadavers and other supplemental materials. Prerequisite: BIO-210L. Co-Requisite: BIO-211.
Course Description
This course is the second in a one-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Course topics include an introduction to electric and magnetic fields, the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave, geometric optics, quantum mechanics, and nuclear reactions. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-112 lecture course. Some of the topics learners understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112.
Course Description
This course is the first of two organic chemistry courses. The first half of this course develops the vocabulary and concepts of chemical bonding, chemical structure, acid-base principles, and nomenclature needed to understand properties and reactions of organic compounds. The second half of this course discusses chemical reactions, including radical reactions, substitution and elimination reactions, and synthesis and reactions of alkenes. Students learn how to predict reaction products and draw reaction mechanisms. Organic synthesis and structural determination are also covered. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-231 reinforces principles learned in the lecture course through various techniques that organic chemists use to synthesize compounds. Students use these techniques throughout the semester. These techniques include determination of melting point, determination of solubility, thin layer chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation. Structural determination using theories discussed in CHM-231 is applied to unknown compounds. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231.
Course Description
This courses introduces students to biological change at multiple levels of life, including molecular, cellular, organismal, and population. Students will gain an understanding of the mechanisms of change and how they work, as well as the patterns that result by examining molecular and organismal data, geological time, fossil evidence, and the history of Earth and man. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L.
Course Description
This course is the second of two organic chemistry courses. The course is organized by common organic functional groups, including alkynes, alcohols, ether, aromatic compounds, ketones and aldehydes, amines, carboxylic acid, and carboxylic acid derivatives. The reactions and properties of each functional group are discussed. Students learn how to predict reaction products, draw reaction mechanisms, and predict physical properties. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-232L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-232 supports and extends principles learned in the lecture course. Students carry out various organic syntheses using techniques taught in CHM-231. The experiments include preparation of an alkene from an alcohol, a Grignard reaction, preparation of cinnamaldehyde, nitration of methyl benzoate, synthesis of N-Methyl Prozac, an Aldol reaction, Benzimidazole synthesis, and a Diazonium coupling reaction. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-requisite: CHM-232.
Course Description
This writing intensive course provides a comprehensive examination of the principles of heredity and variation, including Mendelian, molecular, and population genetics. Students explore topics such as gene mapping, DNA structure and replication, population genetics, and molecular change. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L, and one of the following: BIO-205, BIO-215, BIO-333, BIO-339, or CHM-115.
Course Description
The course objective is to survey basic biochemical principles, including the composition, structure, and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. Important biochemical principles include structure-function correlation, chemical reactivity, kinetics and equilibrium, thermodynamics, membrane structure and function, and metabolic energy pathways. The application of biochemical concepts in the medical field is emphasized. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360L.
Course Description
This laboratory course covers modern biochemical laboratory techniques and their theoretical foundations. Topics include methods for protein, nucleic acid, and lipid isolation and characterization; enzyme assays; chromatography; electrophoresis; and representing and manipulating proteins and nucleic acids. Experiments are designed for hands-on experimentation and students acquire practical techniques currently used in biochemistry laboratories. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360.
Course Description
This course is a comprehensive study of the composition, structure, energetics, regulation, and growth of eukaryotic cells. Other topics include the essential processes of cells including the correlation of structure and function at the organelle and cellular levels. As well as, principles of molecular biology including recombinant DNA technology and other approaches and method used to investigate cell structure, development, chromosome organization, gene expression, and gene regulation. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L, and one of the following combinations: BIO-205 and BIO-205L, BIO-215 and BIO-215L, or CHM-113 and CHM-113L.
Course Description
This course focuses on fundamental concepts of the nervous system, including anatomy and function at various levels of analysis. Topics include key structures, neural development, neural communication, and neural systems, as well as select neuropathologies. Prerequisites: BIO-211 and BIO-211L.
Course Description
This course introduces the etiology, pathogenesis, morphology, and clinical manifestations associated with various altered health states and diseases. Students also learn basic principles of pharmacotherapeutics and major classes of drugs used to treat disease. Emphasis is on clinically relevant terminology required to support accurate and effective communication in the health information management field. Prerequisites: BIO-192 and BIO-192L, or BIO-202 and BIO-202L, or BIO-211 and BIO-211L.
Course Description
This course focuses on the regional anatomy and function of the human head and neck, including skeletal structure, musculature, relevant neuroanatomy, and other topics pertinent to a detailed, clinical understanding of the head and neck. This course includes a significant experiential learning component. Prerequisites: BIO-211 and BIO-211L.
Course Description
The capstone project is a culmination of the learning experiences while a student in the science programs at Grand Canyon University. Students discuss and write on current topics in their field and prepare an extensive written scientific report or proposal on select topics on the sciences, relevant to their program of study. The capstone project needs to reflect synthesis and integration of course content and good scientific practice. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: Senior status.
- GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
- Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
- Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.