The Biopsychology major is one of only two such programs within the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). Examining the biological basis of behavior and cognition, this hybrid major bridges the fields of biological and psychological sciences and is available with two advising tracks. The Bioscience advising track prepares students for medical or neurobiology graduate programs as well as immediate post-graduate employment in research-related fields. The Allied-Health track prepares students for post-graduate studies in occupational therapy, neuropsychology, and physician assistant programs or immediate post-graduate employment in healthcare-related fields. Coursework within the major explores neuroscience, research methods and experimental psychology. Courses within the Biosciences track emphasize cellular and molecular biology while the Allied Health track concentrates on human anatomy and physiology. Students are encouraged to contact the Pre-Health Professions Advising Coordinator for guidance navigating graduate entrance requirements. For example, in addition to two semesters of Organic Chemistry, students pursuing medical school should add Biochemistry, Calculus, Physics I and II, and Sociology in preparation for the MCAT.
Biopsychology majors can choose from a variety of minors such as bible, business, chemistry, communication, early childhood education, Christian ministries, gerontology, human development and family science, mathematics, sociology, criminal justice, or anthropology. Students in our majors are encouraged to spend a semester studying abroad and/or participate in a practicum or internship off campus. Opportunities are available for professionally supervised participation in medical research labs, community mental health centers, retirement facilities, hospitals, prisons, crisis intervention centers, drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities, and other service agencies in the area.
Graduates from Messiah’s Biopsychology program can:
CHEM 105 / 4 Credits
An introduction to the study of the material world from the perspective of molecules, atoms, and electrons. Topics include: atomic and molecular structure, stoichiometry, nomenclature, chemical bonding, chemical reactions (acid-base, solubility, and oxidation- reduction), introductory thermodynamics, the periodic table, gas laws, intermolecular forces, and states of matter. The laboratory work illustrates fundamental chemical principles while emphasizing basic laboratory techniques.
CHEM 106 / 4 Credits
Kinetics and thermodynamics of chemical reactions, types of chemical reactions, equilibrium and applications in aqueous solution, and electrochemistry.
PSYC 101 / 3 Credits
Introduction to modern psychology including its major theorists and methodologies and an overview of biological, personality, learning, developmental, social, and abnormal psychology.
PSYC 209 / 3 Credits
A developmental approach to the study of persons from conception to death. Attention is given to the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development of the individual as well as to theoretical and methodological issues relevant to understanding different age groups. Applications are made to the contexts relevant to various stages of development. Recommended: EDUC 203 OR HDFS/PSYC/SOCI 101
PSYC 272 / 3 Credits
This course will use a process-oriented approach to provide an overview of the most common research methods in the behavioral sciences. Students will be provided information regarding each step of the research process from idea development to dissemination of results. Students will then have the opportunity to apply this knowledge through the implementation of their own research projects.
PSYC 350 / 3 Credits
The goal of this course is to study the relationship between the physiological and psychological bases of behavior. This course will emphasize the biological basis of nervous systems disorders and mental illnesses, the pharmacology of drug use and abuse and the neural circuitry of emotion. The course will also examine the organization of the nervous system and the mechanisms of neuronal communication.
PSYC 351 / 3 Credits
The goal of this course is to provide a detailed examination of the theories and research pertaining to various sensory and perceptual processes with an emphasis on vision. Students will participate in simulated research activities to explore and illustrate key principles and ideas.
PSYC 408 / 3 Credits
In-depth study of human behavior, the formulation of research problems and hypotheses, research design, statistical inference, decision making, and writing research reports. The experimental research process will be experienced by way of a semester long experimental project of the student's choosing. This course meets the major-writing intensive requirement for the Psychology B.A., B.S., and Biopsychology majors.
BIOL 470 / 3 Credits
A study of the structure and function of the human nervous system. Emphasis on motor control, sensory input, the special senses, and behavior; including disease and dysfunction. Additional topics include sleep, learning and memory, and neural development.
BIOL 170 / 4 Credits
Introduction to molecular and cellular biology including study of biological molecules, cell structure and function, enzymes, metabolism, and genetics. Builds to an exploration of cellular specialization and the integrated physiological systems that enable homeostasis across the Animal Kingdom. Laboratory emphasizes molecular laboratory skills, physiological techniques, and dissection of representative organisms. This course meets QuEST Laboratory Science requirement for all majors but is taught at a level appropriate for science majors.
BIOL 171 / 1 Credits
An introduction to the philosophy and nature of science, integration of faith and science, and exploration of the broad vocational field of Christian service to humanity and the environment. This course will examine multiple models seeking to integrate and harmonize Christian faith and scientific understanding, with a focus on the biological sciences. Students will acquire insights and skills required to successfully plan and achieve their professional goals.
BIOL 172 / 4 Credits
An introduction to the diversity of life, including biological systematics, evolutionary theory, natural history and plant biology. Topics include the processes and patterns of evolution, speciation and phylogenies, and the major clades of life. Of particular emphasis is the diversity of plants and their natural histories in relation to their respective form and function. Plant anatomy, physiology, genetics, pathology and ecology will be discussed with specific reference to economically and medicinally important plant groups. While this course meets the QuEST Laboratory Science requirement for all majors, it is taught at a level appropriate for science majors.
BIOL 260 / 4 Credits
This course provides a foundation in classical and molecular genetics. Topics include nucleic acid structure; gene structure, expression and regulation; genome replication, mutation and repair; microbial genetics; Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance, linkage, polygenic inheritance, gene interactions; epigenetics and cancer genetics. Laboratory emphasizes hands-on manipulation of the genetic model systems Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans, and analysis of polymorphisms affecting taste in humans. Techniques include gene mapping, RNAi, genotyping analysis, bioinformatics, and scientific writing.
CHEM 309 / 4 Credits
The characterization and chemistry of simple carbon compounds as organized by functional group. This includes nomenclature, three-dimensional structure, physical properties, reaction mechanisms, kinetics, thermodynamics, reactions, and NMR and IR spectroscopy.
CHEM 310 / 4 Credits
The characterization of carbon compounds with increasing complexity. Emphasis will be on the chemistry of aromatic compounds, carbonyl compounds, amines, and biological molecules that contain multiple functional groups. This includes nomenclature, physical properties, reaction mechanisms, kinetics, thermodynamics, reactions, multi-step syntheses, and the integration of spectroscopic methods for the structure determination of organic molecules.
BIOL 265 / 4 Credits
A study of microorganisms, including diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes; viruses; morphology, classification, growth, metabolism, nutrition, and environment; microbial genetics; ecology and symbiosis; infection, colonization, and pathogenicity; detection and control of microbial growth; microbial infections/diseases and major body systems; epidemiology; and applied microbiology. Laboratory emphasizes techniques such as microscopy, aseptic technique, microbial quantification and identification, bacteriophage infection, molecular analysis, and antibody-based tests. Designed for students majoring in natural or health sciences.
BIOL 348 / 3 Credits
Animal behavior describes and investigates the proximate and ultimate causes of animal actions. An interdisciplinary approach will examine and integrate the functional behavior of animals through ecological, evolutionary, genetic, neurophysiological and psychological bases.
BIOL 375 / 3 Credits
Study of molecular and genetic mechanisms regulating animal development, with emphasis on vertebrate embryology. Topics include growth and differentiation, embryonic patterning, morphogenesis, organ formation, diseases, and ethical issues relevant to developmental biology. Classical experimental embryology and current molecular and genetic techniques will be explored. Laboratory investigates embryonic development in several model systems including zebrafish.
BIOL 380 / 4 Credits
Emphasizes the molecular nature of genes and genomes including structure, organization, expression, regulation, and function. Includes discussion of experimental and bioinformatic approaches used to study, analyze, and manipulate genetic information at both the single gene and whole genome levels, with application to the genetic basis of disease. Laboratory emphasizes recombinant DNA methodologies and bioinformatic analyses.
BIOL 416 / 4 Credits
Exploration of cell and subcellular structure and function, emphasizing mechanisms leading to neoplasia and progression to malignancy and metastasis. Topics include protein sorting, vesicular trafficking, and protein degradation; signal transduction pathways and oncogenes; cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and tumor suppressor genes; and complex heterogeneous tumor-stromal interactions. Laboratory highlights techniques of cell culture, protein detection, fluorescence and electron microscopy, and histology.
BIOL 418 / 3 Credits
Introduction to the mammalian immune system with emphasis on host-pathogen interaction. Control and specificity of innate and adaptive immunity are examined by studying the structure and function of antibodies and T cell receptors, development of immune cells, cytokines and chemokines, cell adhesion molecules, immunization, allergy, autoimmunity, graft rejection, and tumor immunology.
BIOL 460 / 4 Credits
Study of the integrated physiological processes essential for maintenance of homeostasis. Material spans cellular, tissue, organ, and systemic functions, with strong emphasis on human physiology. The laboratory focuses on hypothesis-driven studies in several model organisms, including humans, and utilizes computerized instrumentation and clinical diagnostic tests.
BIOL 465 / 4 Credits
A study of the gross anatomy of the human, including extensive laboratory experience in the dissection of human cadavers. Students utilize modeling software to supplement dissection.
*Encouraged, but not required for BIOP majors: PSYC 099 Writing for Psychology.
BIOL 185 / 4 Credits
Study of the structure and function of the human body, spanning cellular through systemic perspectives. Internal regulation enabling the maintenance of homeostasis is underscored. Organ systems include the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and endocrine systems. Laboratory emphasizes student understanding of anatomy and its role in integrated function. Intended for majors in the health sciences.
BIOL 186 / 4 Credits
Study of the structure and function of the human body, spanning cellular through systemic perspectives. Internal regulation enabling the maintenance of homeostasis is underscored. Organ systems include the cardiovascular, lymphatic/immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Laboratory emphasizes student understanding of anatomy and its role in integrated function. Intended for majors in the health sciences.
BIOL 189 / 3 Credits
This lecture course is designed to provide students in the nursing and applied health sciences with a framework for understanding the fundamentals of human genetics as applied to health and disease. The course also focuses on the ethical, legal, and social implications of the use of genetic technologies in public health.
PSYC 099 / 1 Credits
Emphasis on the basic style, format, and processes of writing in psychology as a discipline. This includes conducting a literature search, writing a literature review, and producing a scholarly paper.
CHEM 204 / 4 Credits
Essential foundations of organic chemistry for students needing a one semester survey of organic chemistry. Includes natural and synthetic substances, their properties, reactions, and preparation.
BIOL 265 / 4 Credits
A study of microorganisms, including diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes; viruses; morphology, classification, growth, metabolism, nutrition, and environment; microbial genetics; ecology and symbiosis; infection, colonization, and pathogenicity; detection and control of microbial growth; microbial infections/diseases and major body systems; epidemiology; and applied microbiology. Laboratory emphasizes techniques such as microscopy, aseptic technique, microbial quantification and identification, bacteriophage infection, molecular analysis, and antibody-based tests. Designed for students majoring in natural or health sciences.
BIOL 348 / 3 Credits
Animal behavior describes and investigates the proximate and ultimate causes of animal actions. An interdisciplinary approach will examine and integrate the functional behavior of animals through ecological, evolutionary, genetic, neurophysiological and psychological bases.
BIOL 460 / 4 Credits
Study of the integrated physiological processes essential for maintenance of homeostasis. Material spans cellular, tissue, organ, and systemic functions, with strong emphasis on human physiology. The laboratory focuses on hypothesis-driven studies in several model organisms, including humans, and utilizes computerized instrumentation and clinical diagnostic tests.
BIOL 465 / 4 Credits
A study of the gross anatomy of the human, including extensive laboratory experience in the dissection of human cadavers. Students utilize modeling software to supplement dissection.
Students in the Allied-Health track are encouraged, but not required, to take BIOL 171 Biological Sciences Cornerstone.
PSYC 271 / 3 Credits
This course provides a foundational background in the use and application of key statistical methods used in psychology. Students will learn to handle data and critically evaluate the appropriate statistical methods for presenting data within the field of psychology. The basic principles of probability, descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and the use of statistical software appropriate to psychology will be taught. STAT 269 recommended.
STAT 269 / 3 Credits
Descriptive measures, normal distributions, one-sample and two-sample hypothesis testing and estimation, correlation, and analysis of variance.
PSYC 319 / 3 Credits
Study of the biological and psychosocial factors related to the development of psychopathology. Focus on various mental health disorders, with emphasis on classification based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
PSYC 345 / 3 Credits
Survey of research and theory in the study of human information processing. The course covers the acquisition, representation, and use of knowledge with emphasis on the processes of attention, memory, language, and problem solving and decision making.
BIOL 495 / 3 Credits
Historical, philosophical, and ethical aspects of the biological sciences, with some discussion of various models for relating science and Christian faith.
PSYC 494 / 3 Credits
Discussion and analysis of the relationship between psychology and the Christian faith. Considers how Christian perspectives inform, critique, and further a professional orientation in psychology.
| Experiential Learning requirement | 0 |
| QuEST requirements | Credits |
| First Year Seminar | 3 |
| Oral Communication | 3 |
| Created and Called for Community (W) | 3 |
| Mathematical Sciences | 3 or 4 |
| Laboratory Science (BIOL 170, BIOL 172 or CHEM 105) | met/major |
| Science, Technology & the World | waived |
| Social Science (PSYC 101) | met/major |
| European History or U.S. History | 3 |
| Literature | 3 |
| Philosophy and Religion | 3 |
| Arts | 3 |
| First Semester of Language | 3 |
| Second Semester of Language | 3 |
| Third Semester of Language or Cross Cultural | 3 |
| Non-Western Studies | 2 or 3 |
| Bible | 3 |
| Christian Beliefs | 3 |
| Wellness course | 1 |
| Ethics, World Views or Pluralism | 3 |
| QuEST requirements | 45-47 |
| Major requirements | 61-63 |
| Free electives | 17-13 |
| Total credits | 123 |