Mar 19, 2026  
Undergraduate Catalog 2026-2027 
    
Undergraduate Catalog 2026-2027

BIO 109 Survey of Human Biology

Credits: (3)
This one-semester, online course provides a basic overview of the major organ systems of the human body.  Emphasis is on how the body organ systems function normally to maintain health, through overall homeostasis. Topics will include chemistry of life, cells, cellular metabolism, gene expression, histology, homeostasis, and anatomy and physiology of major organ systems including cardiovascular, immune, digestive, respiratory, urinary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, and reproductive. Topic applications will include the biology of infectious diseases, cancer, and human interaction with the biosphere. It is intended for non-science majors who are matriculated into a fully-online degree program, and is not appropriate for students preparing for Nursing, Surgical Technology, and Physical Therapist Assistant. This course does not fulfill the science requirement for Math/Science and Computer Science students. Not open to students with credit in BIO 121 , BIO 151 , BIO 168  or BIO 171 . No prerequisites required. Optional co-requisite BIO 109L. Proctored final exam required.

SUNY Gen Ed Area(s): Natural Sciences
Designation(s): Liberal Arts

Learning Outcomes
  1. Identify and describe the biochemical events, molecules, and structural features occuring in human cells and associated tissues.
  2. Identify and describe the anatomy and physiology of the major human organ systems, including how homeostasis is achieved.
  3. Explain the effect of the biosphere and various diseases, including infectious, on the human body.