Dec 07, 2024  
USC Catalogue 2024-2025 
    
USC Catalogue 2024-2025

Human Biology (BS)


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The section of Human and Evolutionary Biology within the Department of Biological Sciences oversees the Human Biology BS at USC. This degree is designed for students seeking a focused course of study in human applied physiology, biomedicine, nutrition and metabolism and/or human evolution. The Human Biology BS is an excellent option for students pursuing pre-professional education in the fields of medicine, physical therapy, dentistry, physician assistant, nursing, nutrition, kinesiology, biomechanics, human evolution, primatology, evolutionary biology, etc.

Summary of Requirements

Students must complete the general core consisting of 25 units. In addition, they must complete all courses listed in the major track of their choice (one thematic module of 20 units), as well as 16 additional units from the restricted elective list or any other track in the major. No more than two courses may be lower division (100- or 200-level) from the major track and electives combined. Total major requirements: 61 units; total degree requirements: 129 units.

Major Track (20 Units)


Choose one complete track module from below:

Applied Physiology


The Applied Physiology track explores human movement through the study of body form and function, using general principles of physiology, biomechanics and motor learning.

Biomedical Science


The Biomedical Science track applies the knowledge of molecular biology to understand human physiology on macro- and microcellular levels of the body.

Health and Disease


The Health and Disease track explores physiology and nutrition with an emphasis on human health and disease. Common diseases of major organ systems are studied with a focus on diseases related to obesity and metabolic dysfunction.

Human Evolutionary Biology


The Human Evolution track examines how and why humans evolved using evolutionary mechanisms and hypotheses. The track courses explore paleo-human ancestors, primates (prosimians, monkeys and apes), and the impact of society and culture on evolution.

Restricted Electives (16 Units)


A minimum of 16 units is required. Courses can be selected from the elective list below or from any other track in the major.

Note:


*Prerequisite required

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