Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - HSCI 100 D100

Human Biology (3)

Class Number: 2315

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Mon, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Frank Lee
    f_lee@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-8649
    Office Hours: by appointment only

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.

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:

  • Organization and regulation of biological systems
  • Human cardiovascular system, digestive system, nervous system, endocrine system, lymphatic system and immunity, and reproduction
  • Origin of life, genetic inheritance, phenotypic plasticity
  • Natural selection, evolution and ecological pressures
  • Environmental challenges and their impact on human life

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

1.    Explain the basic biological principles that underlie human health and well-being.
2.    Describe broadly the organization and regulation of the major biological systems in humans.
3.    Describe the biological basis of several common human diseases.
4.    Discuss basic interactions between the human genotype, its environment and the resulting phenotype.
5.    Evaluate current science news and health claims for pseudoscience, misconceptions and misreporting
6.    Explain and apply the scientific method.

Grading

  • Midterm Exam 1 20%
  • Midterm Exam 2 20%
  • Final Exam 20%
  • Tutorial Attendance and Participation 10%
  • Quizzes 10%
  • Final Assignment 20%

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

Goodenough and McGuire. Biology of Humans: concepts, applications and issues. with Mastering Biology.  Benjamin Cummings. Toronto. 4th, 5th, or 6th edition

The electronic content from MasteringBiology is recommended as well, but not required, and only available with new textbook purchase.  6th Ed. ISBN-10: 0134874102 • ISBN-13: 9780134874104 -       Online e-text is also available at masteringbiology.com
ISBN: 10: 0134874102

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.