Immunology and the liberal arts: constructing a multi-level immunology curriculum at an undergraduate institution (51.2)

Abstract

Abstract At a liberal arts college, immunology is not restricted to a specialized biology course. Its relevance to global public health attracts biology majors and non-majors. Its inherent evolutionary scaffolding and broad focus on cellular/molecular physiology makes it suitable for all levels of the majors’ curriculum. With sophisticated technology and model systems, and translational significance, it appeals to senior biology majors undertaking collaborative research with faculty, participating in journal club-style seminar courses and writing independent capstone papers. At Macalester College, we offer a multi-level immunology curriculum ranging from non-majors global and community health seminars on pandemics and vaccine development, an introductory immunology course, with laboratory and civic engagement components, for juniors, and senior-level seminar and research courses and honors research projects. Our flow cytometry core supports labs across the biology curriculum. With its inherent focus on integrative thinking and application of concepts to solving problems, relevance to global health and lastly, but importantly, room for concepts of identity, organization and collective action, immunology is a perfect liberal art. We present examples of course and laboratory innovations, strategies for funding a research laboratory at a liberal arts college, and ways of getting students across campus engaged in studying the immune system.