- Money, Molecules and Meds

Institution:

The Evergreen State College

Subject:

Description:

Faculty: Glenn Landram (management, statistics), Maria Bastaki (pharmacology), Lydia McKinstry (chemistry) Major areas of study include economics, management, pharmacology and chemistry. Class Standing: This lower-division program is designed for 50 percent freshmen and 50 percent sophomores. Prerequisites: Strong algebra proficiency. High school biology and chemistry recommended. This program will explore the economic, ethical and scientific impacts of the pharmaceutical industry on global society. We will educate from a variety of angles in order for students to gain an appreciation of the critical issues involved with disease diagnosis, drug development, testing, regulation and production. The program will use an organizing theme that links the chemical and biochemical concepts of drug design and development with the economic, social and legal issues associated with the demand, cost and feasibility of research. During the fall quarter, we will survey the fundamental principles of chemistry and molecular structure as they relate to drug activity and function. We will also consider the biochemical principles that are important in drug bioavailability, therapeutic efficacy and toxicity. We will explore the definition of disease in the context of pharmaceutical research priorities and the role of the medical profession in disease diagnosis and treatment. The regulatory, political and public policy processes involved in moving a potential drug candidate from the research laboratory through clinical testing and ultimately to the consumer will also be examined. In the winter quarter, our inquiry will focus on the role of pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries in public health and society, as well as the ways in which these organizations are structured and financed. We will compare the costs and benefits associated with drug development as they apply to the industry and society, including research, testing, production, packaging and marketing. Historical accounts of the discovery, development, testing and regulation of a few specific drugs will be presented along with the resulting public health and public policy impacts. In addition, we will consider the economic, social and geographical factors associated with certain national and global public health care issues. Program activities will consist of lectures, small-group problem-solving workshops, laboratories, field trips and seminars. Our readings and discussions will be concerned with the economic, ethical and scientific aspects of the pharmaceutical industry as they relate to the global community, as well as individuals. As appropriate, we will use quantitative methods to gain additional insights into these concepts. Students will undertake assignments focused on interpreting and integrating the topics covered. This work will emphasize critical and quantitative reasoning, as well as the development of proficient writing and speaking skills. Total: 16 credits each quarter. Enrollment: 60 Special Expenses: Approximately $25 for field trips to local museums, theaters and legislative sessions. Program is preparatory for careers and future studies in business, education, humanities, law and natural science. This program is also listed under Programs for Freshmen; Environmental Studies; and Scientific Inquiry.

Credits:

16.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.evergreen.edu

Phone Number:

(360) 867-6170

Regional Accreditation:

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Calendar System:

Quarter

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