Department of Arts and Sciences
The presence of a strong Arts and Sciences department, housed within the College of Health Professions, underscores the Upstate Medical University's emphasis on excellence in education and dedication to producing informed and responsible health care professionals. With a record of outstanding scholarly accomplishments, faculty members offer courses in the arts and sciences to undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Health Professions and College of Nursing.
These offerings include a diverse spectrum of foundation courses
- biological and physical sciences
- research and biostatistics
- professional communication
- social and behavioral sciences
- education
- courses specifically designed for health professionals.
Designed to complement and broaden the student's professional courses, Arts and Sciences classes serve to develop each student's knowledge base, scientific awareness, social sensitivity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The Arts and Sciences courses are a required component in the curricula of the College of Health Professions and the College of Nursing. Students must successfully complete their arts and sciences courses in order to earn a university degree.
Course Descriptions
Biology II Chemistry II Computer Science II Education II Professional Communication II Research and Biostatistics || Pathology II Pharmacology II
Social Science and Psychology II Center for Bioethics and Humanities|| SCCFM
Biology
BIOL 210 MICROBIOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
This course is a survey of the science of microbiology. Although emphasis is placed on bacteria, microorganisms other than bacteria are included. Particular emphasis is placed on the relationship between microorganisms and man. Emphasis in laboratory is placed on human pathogens. Spring semester.
BIOL 310 BIOSTATISTICS (CROSS LISTED AS MATH 310) - 3 CREDIT HOURS
This basic course in statistical concepts is designed to enable health science professionals to apply basic descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to problems in their field. The topics discussed include descriptive statistics, elementary probability, normal distribution, hypotheses testing, including: t tests; regression and correlation theories; analysis of variance (ANOVA); and chi-squared tests. The use of a computer statistical package will be emphasized. Spring semester and Summer session.
BIOL 340 ADVANCED PHYSIOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
This course covers more advanced principles of human physiology. Aspects of cellular physiology as well as the skeletal muscle, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, gastrointestinal and endocrine systems are discussed. Prerequisite: 6-8 credit hours of Anatomy and Physiology. Fall semester.
BIOL 420 EPIDEMIOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
This course presents epidemiological principles and methods with emphasis on the health status and health needs of a population, on levels of prevention, and on promotion of health strategies. Fall semester.
BIOL 441 RESEARCH METHODS - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Provides an introduction and basic foundation to research process, theory, methods, practices, and statistical concepts with the goal of increasing understanding of how research knowledge is constructed. Will focus on steps involved in the "Scientific Method," an overview of quantitative, qualitative and survey methodologies, an exploration of basic types of research designs, and an introduction to descriptive and inferential statistical concepts that will provide basic skills in the descriptive analysis of quantitative data.
BIOL 445 APPLIED RESEARCH - 1 CREDIT HOUR
Students are required to conduct a research project to completion and make both oral and written presentations according to established standards. The focus of this course will be on the application of the content and concepts exposed to the previous semester in BIOL 441. Prerequisite: BIOL 441 Research Methods
BIOL 451 RESEARCH METHODS I - 1 CREDIT HOUR
This course is designed to present the basics of research from choosing a research problem to constructing and presenting a research proposal. Discussions on scientific methodology including experimental design, human research, and critical analysis of medical literature are included. Fall semester.
BIOL 461 RESEARCH METHODS AND DATA ANALYSIS - 2 CREDIT HOURS
This course is designed to acquaint the student with the basic language, logic and methods of research as they apply to the health sciences. Principles of research are introduced through lecture, readings and assignments. Students are also introduced to the statistical tools most commonly employed in health research and to the use of a computer software package to store, manipulate and analyze data. Prerequisites: any 3.0 credit hour introductory statistic course. Students taking or planning to take BIOL 310 (Biostatistics) are not eligible for enrollment.
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Chemistry
CHEM 341 ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LECTURE - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Survey of principle types of organic compounds (nomenclature, reactions, preparations, mechanisms). Prerequisite: CHEM 236 and 237 or two (2) semesters of general chemistry with lab. Fall semester.
CHEM 342 ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY - 1 CREDIT HOUR
Concurrent with CHEM 341. Covers application of concepts learned in CHEM 341 Lecture. Fall semester.
CHEM 351 BIOCHEMISTRY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Structure, functions and reactions of molecules comprising living organisms including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals, nucleic acids. Intermediate metabolism. Enzyme mechanisms. Prerequisite: organic chemistry with lab. Spring semester.
CHEM 352 BIOCHEMISTRY LABORATORY - 1 CREDIT HOUR
Computer Science
CSCI 300 COMPUTER SCIENCE - 2 CREDIT HOURS
This course is designed to provide the student with an introduction to the use of applications software for creating electronic spreadsheets, on-line presentations, and database management. The student will learn how to generate top-quality presentation materials for visual communications. In addition, students will learn how to use an electronic spreadsheet to perform many types of computations on data, and with a minimum of effort, create sophisticated charts and graphs. Students will learn the basic principles of database management, including how to build, manipulate records and generate reports. Students will concentrate on examining the design and implementation of database management systems. Emphasis will be placed on integrating these applications together in a Windows based environment. Students entering this course will be expected to have prior knowledge on how to use a standard word processing program and have the skills to navigate the World Wide Web. Fall semester.
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Education
EDUC 340 EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY (CROSS LISTED AS PSYC 340) - 3 CREDIT HOURS
The study of psychological principles and research is applied to learning, teaching, and changing attitudes, emotions, and behavior. Prerequisite: Introduction to psychology or equivalent. Fall semester.
EDUC 351 CURRICULUM PLANNING - 3 CREDIT HOURS
A seminar emphasizing the basic principles of curriculum development and implementation. Students relate principles learned to the practical task of creating course curriculums. Prerequisite: EDUC 352 Teaching Methods or equivalent. Spring semester.
EDUC 352 TEACHING METHODS - 3 CREDIT HOURS
A seminar focusing on the skills needed for effective teaching both inside and outside the traditional classroom. Students study teaching strategies, oral presentation principles, audiovisual techniques, and classroom management methods. Some education theory is discussed, but the course stresses the practical application of abstract ideas. Fall semester.
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Professional Communication
ENGL 302 - FOUNDATIONS OF PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION I - 1/2 CREDIT HOURS
This course the first course in a two course sequence that prepares students entering the health professions in the essential areas of professional communication, and will be linked to courses identified by the department of the student's major area of study. Specifically, course objectives will include optimizing student ability to produce coherent texts within common college-level written forms, demonstrate the ability to revise and improve such texts, research a topic, develop an argument and organize supporting details, develop proficiency in oral discourse, and evaluate an oral presentation according to established criteria. The course will focus on building knowledge and developing skills and strategies in both technical writing and oral discourse, and will support students in the preparation and completion of various items for submission to required student portfolios. Specific portfolio items to be completed in this course will vary by program of study. Prerequisite: English composition course. Fall and Spring semesters
ENGL 303 - FOUNDATIONS OF PROFESSIONAL COMUNICATION II - 1/2 CREDIT HOUR
This course is the second course in a two course sequence that prepares students entering the health professions in the essential areas of professional communication, and will also be linked to courses identified by the department of the student's major area of study. Course objectives and completion of specific portfolio items generated in this course will vary by program of study, and will be dependent on what has previously been accomplished in the context of ENGL 302 - Foundations of Professional Communication I. Prerequisite: ENGL 302 Foundations of Professional Communication I. Fall and Spring semesters.
ENGL 325 PROFESSIONAL & TECHNICAL WRITING - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Every class session advances practical tools of critical thinking and of professional development: abstracts, cover letters, research steps, literature reviews, comparative thinking, memoranda, grant reviews, resume writing, interviewing, proposals, conferences. The course is founded on the premise that knowing how to use language in its various oral and written forms builds skill in research, in reasoning, and in problem solving. These abilities in turn, prepare our graduates to assume necessary leadership roles in their professions. Prerequisite: English composition course. Fall and spring semesters.
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Research and Biostatistics
MATH 310 BIOSTATISTICS (CROSS LISTED AS BIOL 310) - 3 CREDIT HOURS
This is a basic course in statistical concepts designed to enable health science professionals to apply basic descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to problems in their field. The topics discussed include descriptive statistics, elementary probability, normal distribution, hypotheses testing, including: t tests; regression and correlation theories; analysis of variance (ANOVA); and chi-squared tests. The use of a computer statistical package will be emphasized. Spring semester and Summer session.
Pathology
PATH 360 PATHOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Covers basic pathologic mechanisms and specific diseases/disorders affecting the major organ systems of the human body. Commonly encountered diseases/disorders will be covered in detail. Pathophysiologic mechanisms and concepts are included, especially for most commonly encountered disease states. Topics such as genetics/heredity, immune system disease, and malignant processes are presented as well. Fall semester.
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Pharmacology
PHRM 292 PHARMACOLOGY - 2 CREDIT HOURS
Designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the effects of drugs on the physiological and biochemical mechanisms of living organisms. Places emphasis on the therapeutic effects of drugs as applied to the disease state. Topics covered in the course include fundamental principles of drug action, chemotherapy, environmental toxins and drugs that act on the autonomic and central nervous systems, cardiovascular system, metabolic and endocrine functions and respiratory system. Prerequisite: anatomy and physiology or equivalent.
Spring semester.
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Social Science and Psychology
PSYC 303 GERONTOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
An interdisciplinary approach is provided to the study of aging within the socio-historical context. Emphasis is given to the older adulthood stage of life. Prerequisite: a psychology course or social science course or equivalent.
Fall semester.
PSYC 305 DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
The study of maturation over the life course involves an examination of biological and psychological processes and how these are influenced by society, culture and history. Stability and change in cognitive, emotional and social development are assessed from infancy through old age. Prerequisite: Introduction to psychology or equivalent. Spring semester.
PSYC 325 HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Provides a comprehensive view of current perspectives and research on the contributions of psychology to the treatment, prevention and assessment of physical distress and disease. Issues pertaining to the linkages between personality, behavior, biology and health are emphasized. Prerequisite: A psychology or social science course or equivalent.
PSYC 340 EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY (CROSS LISTED AS EDUC 340) - 3 CREDIT HOURS
The study of psychological principles and research is applied to learning, teaching, and changing attitudes, emotions, and behavior. Prerequisite: Introduction to psychology or equivalent. Spring semester.
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CBHX (Center for Bioethics and Humanities)
Students in the College of Health Professions are required as part of their core curriculum to complete CBHX 300 Contemporary Issues in Health Care and CBHX 320 Health Care Ethics which are offered through the Center for Bioethics and Humanities. The description for these courses, as well as others that may be taken as electives, are listed below. For more information on these courses, please click here.
CBHX 300 CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN HEALTH CARE - 1 CREDIT HOUR
This course is designed to sensitize health care professionals to current issues and trends in health care, to promote an understanding of the larger societal context in which health care is delivered, and to enable students to gain an appreciation of the relationships among the various health fields.
CBHX 304/504 MULTICULTURAL ISSUES IN SOCIETY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
An educated health care professional who understands and respects the diversity in our society can best fulfill the unbiased pledge of service essential to health care. This course examines the multicultural mosaic that has defined the United States since its "discovery" and studies the contributions and characteristics of each group.
CBHX 320/520 HEALTH CARE ETHICS - 3 CREDIT HOURS
An examination of ethical theories and principles as they inform contemporary health care dilemmas. Students learn how philosophical principles - such as autonomy, confidentiality, veracity, justice, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and informed consent - create a context for exploring particular ethical topics, i.e., suicide, reproductive rights, death and dying, abortion, testing and screening, biomedical research, and professional conduct. Though dealing with practical situations, this course emphasizes critical and theoretical thinking. Fall and spring semesters.
CBHX 408/608 MEDICINE IN LITERATURE - 3 CREDIT HOURS
The relationship between literature and medicine will be explored through the study of novels, short stories, and essays about medical situations, characters, and themes. Thematic areas to be examined include bioethics in literature; the hospital as environment; relationships between health care workers and patients; illness as metaphor and as reality. Discussion on what writers are communicating and how they do so will emphasize characterization, setting, tone and point of view.
CBHX 410/610 PSYCHOSOCIAL ISSUES IN ILLNESS AND DEATH - 3 CREDIT HOURS
The treatment of illness and death is examined as each is affected by the culture, family, stage of life, and the practice of medicine. Communication, stress and coping, as well as ethical issues are emphasized throughout the course.
CBHX 420/620 PSYCHOLOGY OF HEALTH AND WELL-BEING - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Conceptions of health and well-being are explored from a psychological perspective. Topics include perspectives on health over the life-course; stresses, emotions, illness, and stress management; coping with adversity; and implementing strategies or therapeutic change.
CBHX 445/645 ARTISTIC RESPONSES TO DISEASE - 3 CREDIT HOURS
An exploration of how visual and literary artists have reflected on illness, paying particular attention to short stories, films, poems, plays, novels, and photographic essays.
CBHX 450/650 CREATIVE WRITING IN THE HEALTH SCIENCES - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Class workshops concentrate on the writing of first person narratives, memoirs, poetry, vignettes, creative essays, plays. Encourages practitioners, students, clinicians to experience the therapeutic power of writing and to see themselves as writers. We generate a body of written work; we also explore publishing opportunities. Taking the course for graduate credit will involve commensurate reading/writing assignment.
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SCCFM Courses (Syracuse Consortium for the Cultural Foundations of Medicine)
CCFM 402 ETHICS AND THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS - 3 CREDIT HOURS
An introduction to the social contexts of medicine (clinical, research, professional, organizations, social) will be followed by an introduction to ethics and to methods of argumentation in moral philosophy. The course will then be devoted to a detailed study of ethical issues about healthcare, e.g., the right to treatment, patient rights, informed consent, euthanasia, genetic engineering, and abortion.
CCFM 403 HEALTH PRACTICES - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Covers therapies, issues, and problems in bioethics and a variety of medical practices, with the premise that contemporary health practices comprise a heterogeneous range of approaches to health, illness, and therapy. A range of conventional and unconventional beliefs and health practices is examined. Discussions focus on allopathic medicine, the rules and principles of biomedical ethics, forms of alternative or complementary medicine and spiritual healing. *Courses for which no semester is listed may be offered in summer session or during the academic year depending upon need and interest.
CCFM 424 GENDER ISSUES IN HEALTH CARE - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Issues of health care practice and of health care access are increasingly recognized as being tied to sexual and economic politics. Using mythology, history, literature, fine arts and film this course explores ancient images of female and male healers as well as modern medical assumptions regarding definitions of health and illness. Issues of economics, aging, and reproductive rights center the readings.
CCFM 451 CULTURE AND MENTAL DISORDER - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Psychological and cultural determinants of mental disorders are examined with special emphasis on authors who portray mental disorders as social roles in, such as Goffman, Szasz, Scheff, and Laing. Phenomenological perspective will be used to study personal accounts of mental illness from a variety of societies: East African, Mexican, Hutterite, and Chinese. Finally, a transculturally valid model of psychosis is offered, combining social and biogenetic theories of mental disorders.
CCFM 452 MEDICAL ANTHROPOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
The fundamental tenets of health care delivery are analyzed and the concepts of "health," "illness," "patient," "cure," and "efficiency," are explored. Western medical practices are compared to practices in other cultures; implicit premises and deficiencies in western medicine are highlighted. Topics include analysis of status and roles in hospitals; socialization into the culture of medicine; magical curing; economic barriers to better health care; problems introducing western medicine into alien cultures; and the patient's role.
CCFM 462 REFORMING THE U.S. HEALTH CARE SYSTEM - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Focuses on proposals for reform of the U.S. Health Care System and on problems that prompted these proposals. The structure of the U.S. Health Care System and features common to all health care systems are studied. Student groups examine and report on reform plans, choosing from such schemes as "play-or-pay," the Bush tax credit proposal, single payers systems, expansion of Medicare, and the Canadian and German systems.
CCFM 471 MEDICAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY - 3 CREDIT HOURS
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