Natural Science 0154 - Science of Stress

Stress is a daily part of our lives that has become an intense subject of interest among scientists and the medical community. The body's responses to stress are linked to multiple health problems, but stress can also be overused as an explanation. In this course, we will examine the scientific evidence for the links between stress and human health issues such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and depression. This will include readings of primary scientific research papers and coverage of basic physiological mechanisms in humans and other animals. Students will learn techniques to measure stress and stress hormones. (Keywords: Biology, Neuroscience, Pscyhology, Public Health)

Environments and Change This course includes both in-person and remote elements, but can accommodate fully remote students. Students can expect to spend 6-12 hours a week on work outside of class.