Human Biology
Interdisciplinary Major or Minor (Bachelor of Science)
Associate Professors - Angela Bauer-Dantoin, Warren V. Johnson, James C. Marker, Brian Merkel, Donna Ritch (chair)
Assistant Professors - Craig Hanke, Kari Beth Krieger, Daniel Meinhardt, Debra Pearson, Uwe Pott
Lecturer - Karen Lacey
Web site: http://www.uwgb.edu/humbio/
Human biology focuses on the study of the biological, physiological, nutritional, developmental, and behavioral aspects of the human organism. The major has an extensive range of offerings with core courses emphasizing human structure and function, patterns of reproduction, genetics, nutrition, and behavior.
Students who major in human biology gain extensive skills within the laboratory environment, including physiological, cellular, molecular, and statistical analyses. The laboratories house state-of-the-art instruments and equipment for students to gain valuable experience. Participation in faculty research projects or internships is strongly encouraged.
All human biology majors complete an area of emphasis within the program. There are five areas of emphasis within the major:
- The general emphasis is appropriate for students seeking careers in industrial, managerial, or sales positions in biological or health-related industries or entry-level research positions with pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies.
- The health science emphasis provides preparation for medical, dental or other health-related professional schools, or for graduate programs in biological or health sciences.
- The exercise science emphasis provides background for careers in exercise physiology/fitness, sports medicine, biomechanics, physical therapy, or occupational therapy.
- The cytotechnology emphasis is offered in affiliation with professional programs of cytotechnology at UW-Madison, the Marshfield Clinic, and the Mayo Clinic. Cytotechnology is the microscopic study of cells primarily for detection of cancer. This emphasis leads to a degree in human biology and professional certification as a registered cytotechnologist.
- The nutritional sciences/dietetics emphasis provides a focus on the biological and physical principles of nutrition. This emphasis is accredited as a Didactic Program in Dietetics by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetic Education (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association (ADA). Employment opportunities include healthcare, nutrition education, governmental and community health agencies, fitness facilities, public policy, agribusiness, and the food service industry. Students who successfully complete this program may apply for entry into a Dietetic Internship program, which is required to become a registered dietitian. Registered dietitians provide food and nutritional services with a focus on health promotion and disease prevention.
The human biology major/minor may be combined with other majors/minors for students interested in areas such as scientific journalism, scientific illustration, biological photography, genetic counseling, bioinformatics, public health administration, pharmaceutical sales, or other health-related professions.