Readings: Reviews and primary literature will be assigned for reading prior to the lectures. Visit the Lectures and Readings section.

Midterm exam: Take home essay, open book. Distributed 10/23 and due 11/04 by 8:30 am via email to Jenn (jmaroa@fhcrc.org). Link to Midterm

Panel discussions: Teams of 2-3 students will select topics of relevance to the class to be discussed in formal debate or panel format. The panel members will work together to research all aspects of the question and present the material to the class. Visit the Student Panels page.

Final paper: Each student is expected to prepare a research paper on a question related to the class. The paper must be 10-15 pages (not counting references), double-spaced and include at least 10 primary references (not including reviews or chapters). This paper is not to be a review of literature, but rather an exploration and analysis of a controversial question related to the course. Specific topics must be emailed to and approved by Sheila or Marilyn prior to turning in an outline. Students must discuss the outline (1/2-1 pg) of the paper with one of the organizers for approval by Thursday, Nov. 13. If desired, one of the organizers will read a draft and provide comments. Optional drafts must be turned in by Tuesday, Nov. 25. The final paper is due by 5 pm Tuesday, Dec. 9.

The paper should be an in-depth analysis. We will be looking for a discussion of scientific and health-related issues, as well as practical issues such as political or economic points relevant to the topic. Ethical issues can be raised if relevant. In order to achieve the necessary depth, you may need to restrict your topic to a more specific situation, such as changing something in a particular country or dealing with a specific disease or health issue. Please ask Sheila or Marilyn if you have questions.

Midterm exam (take home) 20 points
Class participation 20 points
Panel presentation 25 points
Final paper 35 points

It is not necessary to get 100 points to receive a 4.0, but rather the final grades will be based on the following standards:

4.0. Excellent and exceptional work for a graduate student. Unusually thorough, well reasoned, sophisticated, and creative.

3.7. Very good work for a graduate student. Some creativity, thorough, good understanding.

3.5. Good work for a graduate student. Competent with evidence of understanding key issues.

3.3. Adequate work for a graduate student, but some weaknesses are evident.

3.0. Borderline performance for a graduate student. Performance is minimally adequate, but understanding is incomplete.

2.7. Minimum acceptable work for a graduate student. Inadequately developed understanding. Serious weaknesses evident.