Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - HSCI 100 D100

Human Biology (3)

Class Number: 2078

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Fri, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An examination of the biological processes that underlie human health and well-being, with emphasis on the evolutionary and ecological influences affecting human populations. Students with credit for BISC 101 may not take HSCI 100 for further credit. Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course focuses on the evolutionary principles relevant to understanding human health and disease. It provides an introduction to human anatomy, physiology, and genetics within the context of human life history (i.e. human growth, development, reproduction, and senescence).

Topics will include:

  • Knowledge production and dissemination through Indigenous and Western science
  • Organization and regulation of biological systems
  • Human cardiovascular system, digestive system, respiratory system, urinary system, nervous system, endocrine system, immunity, and reproduction
  • Origin of life, genetic inheritance, phenotypic plasticity
  • Evolution and ecological relationships
  • Environmental, ethical and social contexts or challenges and their impact on human life and health.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Explain the basic biological principles that underlie human health and well-being.
  • Describe broadly the organization and regulation of the major biological systems in humans and their relation to each other and the natural world.
  • Describe the proximate and ultimate causes and factors affecting human health and well-being.
  • Explain the differences, similarities, and combined possibilities of Indigenous and Western science or ways of knowing.
  • Reflect on the way culture and worldviews shape understandings of the human body and our health and well-being.

Grading

  • Midterm 1 20%
  • Midterm 2 20%
  • Final exam 30%
  • Term paper 10%
  • Presentation 15%
  • Tutorial participation 5%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

REQUIRED READING:

Required readings will be made available in the course Canvas page.


RECOMMENDED READING:

Goodenough and McGuire. Biology of Humans: concepts, applications and issues. with Mastering Biology.  Benjamin Cummings. Toronto.  6th Ed.

Earlier editions of the textbook may be used for this course. It is especially recommended for students who feel they would benefit from a refresher in biology or who would like additional support and study resources as they progress through the course.

 

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.