Topics and formats vary to address current issues and opportunities for student development.

Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 6 hours.
Registration Permission: Consent of Instructor

Other Instructors: West, Molly

Forensic entomology is the study of insects and other arthropods in a criminal justice setting, specifically related to death, abuse, or neglect investigations. The topics covered in this class will serve as broad surveys of the various methods used in this field, as well as relevant research areas, future directions of the field, and the importance of this field to human society. This course will prepare students for higher level courses in biology and the forensic sciences. Satisfies Volunteer Core Requirement: (NS)

Insects and plant diseases have had a significant influence on human history, culture, and lifestyles. The science of entomology and plant pathology helps humankind understand the impact of insects and plant pathogens on these dimensions of human existence. The development of strategies to capitalize on the beneficial aspects of these organisms will also be explored. Satisfies Volunteer Core Requirement: (NS) Satisfies General Education Requirement through the 2021-2022 academic catalog: (NS)

This course will introduce students to the diverse world of insects and the integral interactions between insects and humans. More than one million insect species have been described, with estimates ranging from 10 to 30 million species yet to be discovered. Scientists estimate that there are about 250 million insects for every human on earth and they comprise about 10% of the earth’s weight and represent ca. 80 to 85% of all life on earth! Fortunately, only a small percentage of all insects cause us grief, anguish, pain, and misery. The majority of them may be classified as bizarre, beautiful, or beneficial! This course will focus on the role of insects in our world, with an emphasis on their beneficial contributions to our quality of life. Satisfies Volunteer Core Requirement: (NS) Satisfies General Education Requirement through the 2021-2022 academic catalog: (NS)

This course will take a deep dive into the field of forensic entomology, specifically examining the biology and ecology of relevant arthropods; currently accepted practices, methodologies, and research avenues; and ethical considerations for serving as an expert witness in the United States. Students will become familiar with the morphology and taxonomic identification of larval and adult stages of relevant arthropods and pertinent molecular methods to identify unknown samples through experiential learning conducted in the laboratory and at the Anthropology Research Facility (i.e., The Body Farm). Students will perform a mock minimum-time-since-death estimation and craft a written case report. Satisfies Volunteer Core Requirement: (EI)
Contact Hour Distribution: 3 hours lecture and 1-hour lab.
Registration Restriction(s): Junior or higher standing

Comprehensive individual study of current problems.

Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 9 hours.

Other Instructors: Kelly, Heather Marie

Presentation of research proposals and research (dissertation or thesis) seminars by students. Presentations on current topics by outside speakers.

Grading Restriction: Satisfactory/No Credit grading only.
Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 4 hours.
Registration Restriction(s): Minimum student level - graduate.

Other Instructors: Lamour, Kurt H | Onufrak, Aaron John | Staton, Meg