Course description

Evolution is the central concept in biology. This course examines evolution as a science and places it in a historical context. Course focuses on descent with modification, the nature of natural selection, the history of the earth, the information content of the fossil record, and processes responsible for diversification (speciation and extinction). The science of evolutionary biology is presented in the context of a broader history of ideas in science. The course also explores the importance of evolutionary thinking in the 21st century, including discussion of antibiotic and pesticide resistance, personalized genomics, eugenics, and climate change. This course is suitable for life sciences majors.

Outcome 1: Provide examples of the kinds of questions evolutionary biologists ask, and the types of tools and evidence they use to answer them.

Outcome 2: Recognize and correct common misunderstandings about evolution.

Outcome 3: Differentiate between the four main mechanisms of evolution (mutation, natural selection, migration, genetic drift).

Outcome 4: Communicate about evolutionary principles to classmates and the general public.

Outcome 5: Describe examples of evolution occurring in the modern day.

Intended for students with no background in college biology. Does not meet evolutionary biology requirement for biological sciences major. May not be taken for credit after BIOEE 1780 or 1781.

Summer 2025: Online course