Biological Sciences

This course examines the applications of ecological concepts for the conservation and management of natural and human-altered ecosystems. In particular, it identifies the implications of global and local changes for ecosystems, communities and individual species, especially within the Australian environment. It examines approaches to management and conservation of terrestrial resources and ecosystems, the control of pest species, and restoration of modified habitats.

This course, intended for students who are not majoring in medicine, covers the scientific understanding of death, and analyzes the historical/philosophical implications that form the basis of this knowledge, thereby enhancing student abilities to analyze various social phenomena caused by death in modern society.  

The course presents scientific data related to death, fostering a rational way of thinking through ethical/philosophical considerations of this phenomenon that are necessary in modern society. Topics include mankind’s historical awareness of death; social consensus and philosophical implications related to death; scientific analyses in the fields of pathophysiology, toxicology, and socio-medical science; and scientific approaches to complex social phenomena related to death in modern society. 

This course illustrates the diversity and complexity of living organisms, from viruses to humans. Topics include evolution as a means of interpreting change with time; modern theories on the mechanisms of evolution; the origin of species, including humans; structure and functioning of the simplest microbial life forms; structure and life cycles of fungi; the evolution of aquatic and terrestrial plants; the diversity and adaptations of invertebrate animals; the development and adaptations of chordate groups; primate diversity and evolution; conservation and biodiversity issues in relation to South African biomes and global change. The course includes a strong practical component which further examines biodiversity and related concepts. DP requirements: Completion of at least 80% of deliverables (tests, practicals, tutorials, field trip report), including at least one class test, the practical test, and the field trip report; attendance of practicals and field trip; minimum average of 50% for practicals; minimum of 40% for the class record. Assessment: Coursework 40%. Theory test 1 (7%), theory test 2 (7%), practical test (10%), practicals (10%), field trip report (group mark, 6%). Examinations 60%. One 2-hour theory examination written in November counts 40% (subminimum of 40% applies); one 1.5-hour practical examination written in November counts 20%.

This course explores the intricate dynamics of ecosystems and the application of resource management strategies. Students engage in practical exercises and fieldwork, gaining hands-on experience with environmental measurement tools and real-world resource management scenarios. This course examines human dimensions behind managing forests, ranges, water, and fish/wildlife along with the ecological processes that enable these resources or cause difficulties in managing them. Participants are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of ecological systems, the skills required for responsible natural resource management, and a newfound understanding of the natural world.  Recommended pre-reqs include Introductory Biology, Geology, and Sustainable Development.

This course provides instruction and practical experience in conducting and analyzing experiments and in experimental techniques that are commonly applied across various subjects.  

Topics include preparation of microbial media; cultivation of bacteria; water quality; microscopic examination; biochemical characterization; microbiome analyses; genomic DNA extraction & PCR; gel electrophoresis & PCR purification & Sanger sequencing; DNA fingerprinting; Bioinformatic analysis. 

CIEE supports qualified students who wish to pursue an academically rigorous independent research project while abroad. In order to enroll, students must submit a research proposal including a clearly defined research topic,
explanation of research plans, description of preparation in the planned area of study, list of resources, tentative outline of a final paper, and suggested schedule of progress. Students complete a total of 100-120 hours of
research and meet regularly with an advisor to complete an academically rigorous, ethically sound, and culturally appropriate research project and final research paper. Approval for participation in Directed Independent Research
must be obtained from CIEE and the student's home institution prior to arrival on the program.

This course examines the major conservation issues facing threatened marine wildlife globally with a particular focus on Australia. It covers how marine wildlife research, management and conservation is conducted using ecological, population and life history data, and how threats may be managed. 

This is an independent research course with research arranged between the student and faculty member. The specific research topics vary each term and are described on a special project form for each student. A substantial paper is required. The number of units varies with the student’s project, contact hours, and method of assessment, as defined on the student’s special study project form.

This course examines how infectious agents interact with human hosts at the molecular, cellular, individual patient and community levels to cause diseases and how the hosts attempt to combat these infections. 

This course builds an advanced understanding of major topics in the field of microbiology, exploring topics such as Microbial Cells, Energy Metabolism of Bacterial Cells, Virulence Determinants of Bacterial Pathogens, Metabolism and Virulence Linked Together, Recent Trends in Microbiome Research, Antibiotics, Bacterial Genetics / Synthetic Biology, Helicobacter pylori infection, and Pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori.