University Catalog 2005-2006

University Catalog > CAS > Molecular and Microbiology

Molecular and Microbiology

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Phone: 703-993-1050
Web: gmu.edu/departments/MMB

Faculty

Course Work

The department offers all course work designated BIOD, BIOL, BIOS, and MTCH in the "Course Descriptions" chapter of this catalog.

Undergraduate Programs

The BA and BS in biology provide a sound liberal education with substantial experience in quantitative and analytical thought, along with preparation for a related profession. In addition to ensuring the strong background necessary for graduate study in the many fields of biological science, the broad range of courses available at Mason allows students to develop careers in many areas, including secondary school teaching, environmental management, microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, and natural history. Alternatively, students may prepare for postgraduate studies in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, wildlife management, fisheries biology, or marine science. The department also offers a BS in medical technology. Additional information can be found at the Molecular and Microbiology Department's web site at gmu.edu/departments/MMB or by contacting the Molecular and Microbiology Department, David J. King Hall, Room 3005, 703-993-1050.

Advising

All biology majors are strongly urged to see an academic advisor regularly to help them plan their schedule so they can graduate on time. Biology majors should see an advisor for permission to register prior to their first semester, and again as they complete 60 credits and 90 credits. Medical technology majors must see the medical technology advisor to obtain permission to register each semester. See the department web site, or contact the undergraduate coordinator for more information.

Residence Requirement for Transfer Students

Students majoring in biology are required to complete 16 credits in the major at the 300 and 400 levels at Mason.

Biology, BA

In addition to satisfying the university-wide general education requirements and the requirements for a BA degree in CAS, students must complete the following credits with a minimum GPA of 2.00. (Through the course work below, biology majors satisfy the university-wide general education requirements in natural science, quantitative reasoning, and information technology proficiency.)

Students expecting to enter graduate or professional school are strongly urged to complete MATH 113 and 114. Organic chemistry and PHYS 243, 244, 245, and 246 are recommended.

Biology, BS

In addition to satisfying the university-wide general education requirements for the BS degree, students must complete the following course work with a minimum GPA of 2.00. (Through the course work below, biology majors satisfy the university-wide requirements in natural science, quantitative reasoning, and information technology proficiency.)

+ CHEM 314 and 318 (5 credits)
+ One chemistry course at the 300 or 400 level (3 credits)
+ GEOL 101 and 102 (8 credits)

Students are encouraged to consult with a biology faculty advisor to determine which option best meets their career goals. Students who wish to take biochemistry must take BIOL 483/583 to receive credit toward the major in biology.

Students may choose to complete the requirements of one of the concentrations described below. Or, they may take biology elective courses of their choice to complete the requirement of 44 credits of biology.

Concentration in Biotechnology

The biotechnology concentration consists of a selection of courses that provide essential skills to students seeking employment in the field, or who wish to include an applied component in their undergraduate training in biology.

In addition to satisfying the university-wide general education requirements for the BS degree, students majoring in biology with a concentration in biotechnology must complete the following. (Through the course work below, they satisfy the university-wide general education requirements in natural science, quantitative reasoning, and information technology proficiency.)

* Laboratories associated with courses are required.

** Subject to approval by program coordinator.

Concentration in Environmental and Conservation Biology

This concentration is offered to students seeking a biology degree that focuses on ecology and organismal biology, and prepares them for graduate work or employment in environmental and conservation fields such as natural resources management, fisheries, forestry, water quality management, aquatic and wetland ecology, and conservation biology. The concentration is staffed and supported by the Department of Environmental Science and Policy.

In addition to satisfying the university-wide general education requirements for the BS degree, students must complete the following. (Through the course work below, they satisfy the university-wide general education requirements in natural science, quantitative reasoning, and information technology proficiency.)

*  If not used for field course requirement.

One of the following options:

Concentration in Microbiology

This concentration offers lecture and laboratory courses in microbiology to prepare students for employment or advanced study in microbial genetics, physiology, diversity, and related fields.

In addition to satisfying the university-wide general education requirements for the BS degree, students must complete the following. (Through the course work below, they satisfy the university-wide general education requirements in natural science, quantitative reasoning, and information technology proficiency.)

One of the following options:

Concentration in Molecular Biology

The molecular biology concentration provides basic knowledge of the structure of macromolecules, and chemical processes that occur in living cells. The concentration prepares students for employment or further advanced study in molecular biology.

In addition to satisfying the university-wide general education requirements for the BS degree, students majoring in biology with a concentration in molecular biology must complete the following. (Through the course work below, they satisfy the university-wide general education requirements in natural science, quantitative reasoning, and information technology proficiency.)

Policy on the Use of Organisms in Classes

Direct observations of actual organisms are considered an essential part of learning biology at all levels. Direct observations of organisms may involve the use of living or preserved specimens, dissections of organisms or parts of organisms, and microscopic examination of organisms or parts of organisms. All use of live animals conforms to National Institutes of Health Guidelines for the Use and Care of Laboratory Animals. Activities specified above may be a required part of a course and thus serve as a basis for grading in the course. Any questions about the administration of this policy should be directed to the course coordinator or -instructor.

Writing-Intensive Requirement

Mason requires all students to complete at least one course designated as writing intensive in their majors at the 300 level or above. Students majoring in biology fulfill this requirement by successfully completing BIOL 307. Students not taking BIOL 307 at Mason should consult the biology undergraduate coordinator for a course to fulfill this requirement.

Honors Program in Biology

Biology majors who have completed 16 credits of math and science, including BIOL 213, with a GPA of 3.00 or higher, are eligible to enter the departmental honors program. Transfer students who have an incoming GPA of 3.10 in math and science, and a B or better in BIOL 213, are also eligible. To graduate with honors in biology, a student is required to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 in math and science, and earn a GPA of at least 3.50 in at least three semesters of BIOL 494 Honors Seminar. For more information, contact the departmental honors advisor at 703-993-1050.

Minor in Biology

Candidates for the minor in biology must complete 19–20 credits in biology with a minimum GPA of 2.00, including BIOL 213, 303, 304, and either 307 or 311, in addition to one other 3–4 credit biology course at the 300, 400, or 500 level. For policies governing all minors, see the Academic Policies chapter of this catalog.

Minor in Bioinformatics

A minor in bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary program consisting of required courses in biology, computer science, and statistics. Students must complete 19–20 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.00, distributed as follows:

For policies governing all minors, see the Academic Policies chapter of this catalog.

Premedical, Predental, and Preveterinary Students

Students planning to enter medical, dental, or veterinary schools may choose to major in biology. These students should meet with one of the health sciences advisor in their second semester for assistance and information about the university's Medical Sciences Advisory Committee. For more information, contact 703-993-1050.

Because schools in the health sciences vary both in their philosophies and specific requirements, it is wise for students to become aware of such information well in advance of applying for admission. Although specific requirements vary, most programs do require applicants to complete at least one year of biology. Students who decide not to major in biology should take BIOL 213 and 303. Other requirements generally include organic chemistry (CHEM 313, 314, 315, and 318 or 320) and a year of physics (PHYS 243 through 246). A course in calculus is required by some and highly recommended by others. Admission requirements can generally be met by either a BA or a BS degree.

Teacher Licensure

Students who wish to become teachers should consult the CEHD chapter and attend an information session early in their undergraduate career. For more information, call 703-993-2892, e-mail gseadmit@gmu.edu, or go to gse.gmu.edu.

Biology for Nonmajors

Students who are not majoring in science or mathematics and wish to fulfill their natural science requirement with a two-semester laboratory sequence in biology should enroll in BIOL 103 and 104. With permission of the instructor, nonmajors may enroll in BIOL 213 and then take one of the following to complete the requirement: BIOL 303, 304, or 305/306. Chemistry, physics, and mathematics majors should consult their faculty advisor to determine which biology courses to take.

Medical Technology, BS

This program requires the equivalent of three years of full-time preprofessional study at the college level preceding a senior year of professional education in an affiliated school of medical technology. All affiliated schools are accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

Responsibility for applying to schools of medical technology and gaining admission rests with the student. However, guidance is provided by the medical technology program director in the Molecular and Microbiology Department. Admission medical technology schools is selective. Candidates should strive for strong academic standing. Students who fail to gain admission to a NAACLS-approved school are unable to complete the degree program. Such students may transfer to a biology major without loss of credits.

Application to medical technology schools should be initiated about a year before the desired entrance date. This fact, coupled with the large number of required courses in the preprofessional curriculum, makes it imperative that students in the program consult regularly with their faculty advisor. All medical technology majors and prospective majors are urged to enroll in MTCH 200 as early as possible. This course provides information on the profession and on the educational demands placed on candidates.

Students should be aware that the senior year spent off campus requires the following special interpretation of university policies. Transfer students must present at least 16 credits of 300–400 level biology or chemistry taken at Mason. Students may present no more than 6 credits of D grades in biology and chemistry courses required in the three years of preprofessional study. No unsatisfactory grades may be presented for courses in the senior year of professional study. Transfer students entering with more than 45 transfer credits are often unable to complete the preprofessional phase of their program in the usual three years of full-time study.

Senior students are registered at the university through special procedures. For details, consult the program director.

In addition to satisfying the university-wide general education requirements for the BS degree and completing MTCH 200, candidates must present the following courses in their preprofessional programs with a minimum GPA of 2.00. (Through the course work below, majors satisfy the university-wide general education requirements in natural science, quantitative reasoning, and information technology proficiency.) Because of the extensive professional education requirements stipulated by NAACLS, students majoring in medical technology are exempt from the university-wide general education requirement in the fine arts.

Students are encouraged to elect additional basic science courses during their preprofessional years. Recommended are BIOL 380, 465, 483, 484, 485; CHEM 321; and PHYS 243, 244, 245, 246.

Professional study during the senior year involves clinical education at an affiliated school of medical technology. Thirty credits of course work are required, including MTCH 401, 402, 403, 404, 405, and 406. The distribution of credits in these courses varies with the school of medical technology. No more than 30 professional credits may be applied toward the degree.

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Articulation Program

A special program is available for MLTs who are graduates of associate degree programs. This program provides substantial credit for the scientific and clinical aspects of the associate degree, but requires students to meet the clinical requirement for national certifying exams through approved work experience. For details, contact the program director.

Major in Medical Technology as a Second Bachelor's Degree

While the standard program for medical technologists is three years on campus followed by a fourth year at a clinical affiliate (3 + 1), many students elect to complete a bachelor's degree before entering the clinical program (4 + 1). Students who have completed a BS in biology or chemistry at Mason and then undertake a fifth year at a clinical affiliate may be eligible for a second bachelor's degree with a major in medical technology. Students wishing to receive the second degree must apply before entering their fifth year. For further information, contact a medical technology advisor.

Biology Club and Premedical Honor Society

The Biology Club functions as both a social and informational network for all interested students. In addition, it serves the Molecular and Microbiology Department by sponsoring a seminar program and working at university functions.

Alpha Epsilon Delta Zeta Premedical Honor Society is a national student support group providing professional school tours, educational programs, and lectures on health topics and on the professional school admissions process to students interested in health-related fields such as medicine, dentistry, optometry, and veterinary medicine. Active membership is awarded to students who have completed at least three semesters with a minimum scholastic GPA of 3.00. Associate membership is also available.

Accelerated Master's Degree in Biology

Qualified undergraduates may be admitted to an accelerated master's program and obtain both a BS and MS within five years. This program is open only to those students who wish to pursue the master's degree concentrations in microbiology or molecular biology. Students admitted to this program may take graduate courses after completing 90 undergraduate credits, and up to 6 credits of graduate work may be used in partial satisfaction of the requirements for the undergraduate degree. If students earn at least a 3.00 in these classes, they are granted advanced standing in the master's program and must then complete an additional 24 credits to receive the master's degree. All other master's degree requirements must be met.

Students with an overall GPA of at least 3.00 may apply for provisional acceptance to the accelerated master's program after completing BIOL 213, 303, 304, 305/306, 307, 311; and CHEM 315 and 318; or after completing 75 undergraduate credits including BIOL 494. Three letters of recommendation, including one from a prospective thesis or project advisor, are required.

After completing 120 credits and all requirements for the bachelor's degree, students are awarded a bachelor's degree. Accelerated master's students must then submit scores on the GRE and biology subject exam to have the provisional qualifier removed. Ordinarily, students should receive a minimum combined score of 1100 on the verbal and quantitative portions of the general test and be at least in the 50th percentile on the subject exam.

Graduate Programs

Biology, MS

This program provides advanced training for college graduates or professionals seeking careers in the biotechnology industry or biodefense, as well as more traditional careers in biomedical research, teaching, ecology, evolutionary biology, and animal biology. Master's-level concentrations are available in molecular biology, microbiology, bioinformatics and computational biology (BCB), and systematics and evolutionary biology. Alternatively, students may choose the program in biological sciences, which allows flexibility to specialize in additional areas.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in biology or its equivalent, except for students who choose the BCB concentration. Students who choose the BCB concentration must have an undergraduate degree in any natural science, mathematics, engineering, or computer science. It is preferred that students who choose the BCB concentration have some undergraduate background in cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, or biochemistry (two to four upper-division courses); plus some undergraduate background in computer science (two to four courses that include substantial programming projects). Students without this background may be asked to remedy their deficiencies. A GPA of 3.00 in biology or in the last 60 credits of undergraduate study is required. Students must also submit three letters of recommendation and scores on the GRE. Successful applicants usually score at least 1100 on the verbal and quantitative sections of the GRE (1200 for the BCB). Applicants to all concentrations except BCB must submit scores on the GRE subject exam in either biology or biochemistry. Applicants to the BCB concentration must submit a GRE subject score in an area of their choosing (such as mathematics, computer science, physics, biology, or biochemistry). Admission is contingent on acceptance by a faculty research advisor.

Degree Requirements

An advisory committee and the student work together to develop a program of study that best fits the student's background and interests. At least one member of the committee must be a member of the Molecular and Microbiology Department. The student must submit a program of study to the program director for approval within the first 12 credits of graduate work, and must complete at least 30 graduate credits.

Students have the option to write a thesis (3 to 6 credits of BIOL 799) or project (1 to 3 credits of BIOL 798). According to Mason graduate policies, "the same quality of work is expected of students regardless of their chosen option," that is, the MS thesis option or the MS project option. In general, the MS thesis is most appropriate for students planning or considering a research career. The MS project is most appropriate for students who have scheduling commitments, such as a full-time job, which may preclude performing a complete series of laboratory experiments. The requirements differ primarily at the conclusion of the project, when students pursuing the project option must successfully complete written and oral comprehensive exams. Students pursuing the thesis option must write a formal thesis that meets the requirements of the graduate school, as well as defending their thesis and presenting their results in a public seminar.

Program in Biological Sciences

This program is for students who wish to specialize in an area not covered by the concentrations described below.

Requirements

Concentration in Microbiology

Requirements

Concentration in Molecular Biology

Requirements

Concentration in Systematics and Evolutionary Biology

Requirements

Concentration in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

Requirements
Molecular Techniques Requirement

Students may satisfy the molecular techniques requirement with BIOL 668 or BIOS 740. Special topics courses, such as BIOL 575 or 691, may count for this requirement, but only in semesters in which they are taught in a laboratory workshop format.

Recommended Electives for Students in Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology

This list is provided as a suggestion only, and is not intended to be complete. Note that two courses covering substantially similar topics may not both be counted in the student's course plan. Students should consult their faculty research advisor when preparing a course plan.

Biodefense, MS

The program provides students with a background in the foundations of science and technology of biodefense, threat analysis of biological weapons, and specialized areas of medical defense, including engineering defense, non- proliferation in biodefense, and counter-terrorism and law enforcement of biodefense.

Admission Requirements

Applicants are expected to have either a bachelor's degree or an advanced degree. Due to the breadth of the topic, students with a background in areas such as international affairs, political science, law, public policy, and conflict resolution are eligible for the program in addition to those with a background in the sciences. Students lacking a background in the sciences will be considered for admission, but may be required to satisfy prerequisite courses prior to required graduate courses.

The program requires a minimum 3.00 cumulative undergraduate GPA, but exceptions are considered on an individual basis. Applicants who meet the minimum criteria will be considered for admittance to the program on the basis of experience, letters of recommendation, and other relevant credentials. Admissions are determined by available funding for the program, with individual candidates selected by an admission committee. No specific set of qualifications guarantees admission to the program.

Applicants must provide a completed application form; all undergraduate and graduate transcripts; three letters of recommendation from faculty members or individuals who have firsthand knowledge of academic or professional capabilities; statement of purpose consistent with research interests or professional goals; departmental form; resume; scores from GRE taken within the past five years prior to date of application (may be waived if applicant holds an advanced degree); and if required, scores on the TOEFL.

Degree Requirements

Students must successfully complete 30 credits distributed as follows.

Concentrations

A minimum of 9 credits are required within the chosen concentration. Appropriate courses include:

Medical Biodefense
Nonproliferation
Engineering Defense/Countermeasures
Counterterrorism/Law Enforcement

Biodefense, PhD

The program integrates knowledge of potential pathogenic agents used in biological warfare with medical defense to such agents. Other areas of biodefense, including nonproliferation, counter-terrorism and law enforcement, and engineering defense, are integral parts of the program.

Admission Requirements

Preparation should include a BA, BS, MA, MS, MD, or JD. Due to the breadth of the topic, students with a background in international affairs, political science, law, public policy, and conflict resolution are eligible for the program in addition to those with a background in the sciences. Students lacking a background in the sciences will be considered for admission, but may be required to satisfy prerequisite courses prior to the required graduate courses. The program normally requires a minimum 3.00 cumulative undergraduate GPA, but exceptions will be considered on an individual basis. Applicants who meet the minimum criteria will be considered for admittance to the program on the basis of experience, letters of recommendation, and other relevant credentials. For a given year, actual admissions will be determined by the available funding for the program, with individual candidates selected by an admission committee. No specific set of qualifications guarantees admission to the program.

Applicants must provide a completed application form; all undergraduate and graduate transcripts; three letters of recommendation from faculty members or individuals who have firsthand knowledge of academic or professional capabilities; statement of purpose consistent with research interests and professional goals; departmental form; resume; scores from GRE taken within the past five years prior to date of application (may be waived if applicant holds an advanced degree); and, if required, TOEFL score.

Degree Requirements

All students are required to complete 72 credits including dissertation research in the chosen concentration. For students entering the doctoral program with a master's degree or other graduate credit, the number of required credits may be reduced by a maximum of 30 credits with approval of the doctoral coordinator and the dean's office.

Students carry out an original and independent research project in biodefense. They must present the results of the dissertation research to their graduate committee and in a seminar. Successful completion of a dissertation is contingent upon approval of the majority of the graduate committee and the dean. The dissertation format must be reviewed and approved by the dissertation/thesis service coordinator in the University Libraries.

Concentrations

A minimum of 9 credits are required within the chosen concentration. Appropriate courses include:

Medical Biodefense
Nonproliferation
Engineering Defense/Countermeasures
Counterterrorism/Law Enforcement

Certificates in Microbial Biodefense, and Biological Threat and Defense

These certificates are valuable options for college graduates employed in the biodefense industry, pharmaceutical industry, national defense, and national security. The certificate in microbial biodefense is geared toward those with a background in the sciences. Courses have been selected to provide a sound knowledge of agents of biological warfare, as well as areas such as epidemiology, immunology, toxicology, and approaches to biological warfare medical treatment and response. The certificate in biological threat and defense is for those with an interest in threat analysis and defense to such threats. This program stresses the history of biological agent usage, nonproliferation, and such topics as coordinated response to bioterrorist attacks, incident response, and counter terrorism and civil rights.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must provide the following materials: completed application form; all undergraduate and graduate transcripts; three letters of recommendation from faculty members or individuals who have firsthand knowledge of the applicant's academic or professional capabilities; statement of purpose consistent with research interests or professional goals; departmental form; resume; scores on GRE taken within five years prior to application (may be waived if applicant holds an advanced degree); and, if required, TOEFL score.

Certificate Requirements
Certificate in Microbial Biodefense

Students must complete at least 15 credits as follows:

  Credits
Required courses 7
BIOD 604 Introduction to Biodefense/ Threat Analysis I: Bacterial Agents 3
BIOD 605 Introduction to Biodefense/Threat Analysis II: Viral Agents 3
BIOD 702 Special Topics in Biodefense Seminar 1
8 credits from the following list of courses 8
BIOD 606 Introduction to Biodefense/Threat Analysis III: Agricultural Biodefense 3
BIOD 607 Introduction to Biodefense/ Threat Analysis IV: Toxins 3
BIOD 704 Principles of Toxicology 3
BIOD 708 Epidemiology of a Bioterror Attack 3
BIOD 710 Approaches to Bioweapon Medical Treatment and Response 3
BIOD 711 Techniques in Immunology Lecture 1
BIOD 712 Techniques in Immunology Laboratory 1
BIOD 762 Into the Hot Zone: Working in a High Threat Environment 2
BIOD 763 History of Genetically Engineered Bioweapons 2
Certificate in Biological Threat and Defense

Students must complete at least 15 credits as follows:

  Credits
Required courses 7
BIOD 604 Introduction to Biodefense/ Threat Analysis I: Bacterial Agents 3
BIOD 605 Introduction to Biodefense/Threat Analysis II: Viral Agents 3
BIOD 702 Special Topics in Biodefense Seminar 1
8 credits from the following list of courses 8
BIOD 706 History of Biological Agent Use and Treaties 2
BIOD 709 Nonproliferation in Biodefense 2
BIOD 721 Coordinated Response to a Bioterror Attack 2
BIOD 722 Examining Terrorist Groups 3
BIOD 723 Counterterrorism and Civil Rights 3
BIOD 763 History of Genetically Engineered Bioweapons 2

Biosciences, PhD

This program is a research-oriented field of study that prepares students for significant contributions in academic or industrial settings. Areas of emphasis include microarray analysis of gene expression, sequencing and analysis of genes, gene family evolution, mechanisms of toxicology and mutagenesis, and biotechnological applications.

The academic component is a three-tiered structure. The first provides a set of four core courses designed to advance research skills across all disciplines. This is followed by four or five core courses and elective courses. The first two levels are designed to be completed in approximately two years, including the comprehensive exam. Upon completion of these requirements and the comprehensive exam, the student advances to candidacy status. The third level focuses on research and culminates in a dissertation.

Admission Requirements

In addition to materials required of all applicants for graduate study, the following is also required.

Also, an interview may be required. Applications should be submitted by February 1 for fall admission. Under unusual circumstances, applications may be considered for spring admission if they are received by October 1. Applications will be considered until positions are filled. Students are encouraged to meet application deadlines to be considered for scholarships and stipends. Strong candidates who lack several prerequisites to any concentration may be admitted to provisional status. Removal from provisional status, and continuation in the program, is contingent upon earning a GPA of 3.25 in the program's fundamental courses, plus completion of missing prerequisites.

Students who have not taken a course in basic biochemistry will be required to complete one prior to BIOS 701.

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the PhD in biosciences must complete a minimum of 72 graduate credits.

Upon admission to the program, each student is assigned an advisor from the bioscience faculty. The advisor may be changed by mutual consent of student and advisor, or by petition to the program director and dean. With the advisor, students adopt an individual program that focuses on a specific area of research.

By the end of the fourth semester of course work, the student assembles a dissertation committee of four graduate faculty members with representation from at least two academic departments. The committee and the concentration director approve the program of study.

Upon near completion of course requirements, students take a qualifying exam with a written and an oral com-ponent. At the discretion of the committee, the written qualifying exam may be retaken once if the student's performance was deemed below satisfaction. Upon successful completion of the qualifying exam and all other coursework, students will be recommended for advancement to candidacy by the committee and concentration coordinator.

After advancement to candidacy, students are eligible to enroll in dissertation (998, 999). Students must present their dissertation results to their graduate committee and in a seminar, and defend the dissertation publicly.

For students entering the doctoral program with a master's of science degree, the number of credits required may be reduced by a maximum of 30 with approval of the advisor and the concentration director. Graduate credits taken previously and not used toward another degree may be transferred, subject to the approval of the advisor, concentration director, and dean.

Concentration in Functional Genomics and Biotechnology

This concentration prepares students for significant contributions in an academic or industrial career. Areas of emphasis include microarray analysis, cancer genomics, molecular studies of disease mechanisms, and biotechnology.

Requirements

All students must take the following 15 graduate credits as their concentration courses: