An Online Pre-Pharmacy Degree Built for CVS Colleagues

Welcome to Introduction to Communication: Connecting with Others! It may seem like common knowledge that communication skills are important, and that communicating with others is inescapable in our everyday lives. While this may appear simplistic, the study of communication is actually complex, dynamic, and multifaceted. Strong communication skills are invaluable to strengthening a multitude of aspects of life. Specifically, this course will focus on communication in the professional setting, and present material from multiple vantage points, including communicating with others in a variety of contexts, across situations, and with diverse populations. Upon completion, you will have a deeper understanding of both your own and others’ communication behaviors, and a toolbox of effective behaviors to enhance your experience in the workplace.

Applied Probability and Statistics is designed to help students develop competence in the fundamental concepts of basic statistics including: introductory algebra and graphing; descriptive statistics; regression and correlation; and probability. Statistical data and probability are often used in everyday life, science, business, information technology, and educational settings to make informed decisions about the validity of studies and the effect of data on decisions. This course discusses what constitutes sound research design and how to appropriately model phenomena using statistical data. Additionally, the content covers simple probability calculations, based on events that occur in the business and IT industries. No prerequisites are required for this course.

In this course, students will develop an understanding of psychology and how it helps them better understand others and themselves. Students will learn general theories about psychological development, the structure of the brain, and how psychologists study behavior. They will gain an understanding of both normal and disordered psychological behaviors, as well as general applications of the science of psychology in society (such as personality typing and counseling).

This course provides further application and analysis of algebraic concepts and functions through mathematical modeling of real-world situations. Topics include: real numbers, algebraic expressions, equations and inequalities, graphs and functions, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of linear equations.

This is Anatomy and Physiology I, a six-section, 4 CU course that enables students to develop an understanding of the relationships between the structures and function of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and endocrine systems in the human body. This course will involve laboratory activities, simulated dissections, textbook material, models, and diagrams. Because the course is self-paced, you may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as you need to, with the goal of demonstrating proficiency in the four competencies covered in the final assessment. If you have no prior knowledge of this material, you can expect to spend 40–60 hours on the course content.

This is Anatomy and Physiology II, a six section, four CEU course that enables students to develop an understanding of the relationships between the structures and functions of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and lymphatic systems in the human body. This course will involve laboratory activities, simulated dissections, textbook material, models, and diagrams. Because the course is self-paced, you may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as you need to, with the goal of demonstrating proficiency in the four competencies covered in the final assessment. If you have no prior knowledge of this material, you can expect to spend 40–60 hours on the course content.

Precalculus builds on previous math courses to provide a deeper understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills to prepare students for calculus and professional success. The course will lead students to engage with functions, trigonometry, systems of equations, analytic geometry, and sequences and series. Through interactive learning experiences and real-world applications, precalculus will help students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical principles and their practical significance across diverse fields. Successful completion of a college level algebra course is a prerequisite for this course.

Microbiology with Lab: A Fundamental Approach explores the science that microorganisms are everywhere, and they have positive and negative effects on the community. The course examines the structure and function of microorganisms, disease transmission and progression, and immune responses and other interventions, and it identifies key global diseases. The course consists of an introduction and four major sections. Each section includes learning opportunities through readings, videos, and other relevant resources. Assessment activities with feedback also provide opportunities for students to check their learning, practice, and show how well they understand course content. To assist students in developing an applied, evidence-based understanding of microbiology, this course integrates several lab experiments to help determine the specific characteristic of an unknown microbial sample and a treatment plan. Because the course is self-paced, students may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as needed to gain proficiency in the four competencies that will be covered in the final assessment. Students who have no prior knowledge of or experience with this topic can expect to spend 48–60 hours on the course content. There are no prerequisites for this course.

American Politics and the U.S. Constitution examines the evolution of representative government in the United States and the changing interpretations of the civil rights and civil liberties protected by the Constitution. This course will give candidates an understanding of the powers of the branches of the federal government, the continual tensions inherent in a federal system, the shifting relationship between state and federal governments, and the interactions between elected officials and the ever-changing electorate. This course will focus on such topics as the role of a free press in a democracy, the impact of changing demographics on American politics, and the debates over and expansion of civil rights. Upon completion of the course, candidates should be able to explain the basic functions of the federal government, describe the forces that shape American policy and politics, and be better prepared to participate in America’s civic institutions. This course has no prerequisite.

Welcome to Composition: Writing with a Strategy! In this course, you will focus on three main topics: understanding purpose, context, and audience, writing strategies and techniques, and editing and revising. In addition, the first section, will offer review on core elements of the writing process, cross-cultural communication, as well as working with words and common standards and practices. Each section includes learning opportunities through readings, videos, audio, and other relevant resources. Assessment activities with feedback also provide opportunities to check your learning, practice, and show how well you understand course content. Because the course is self-paced, you may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as you need to gain proficiency in the seven competencies that will be covered in the final assessment. If you have no prior knowledge or experience, you can expect to spend 30-40 hours on the course content.

Healthcare Values and Ethics requires students to synthesize an interdisciplinary approach to decision-making as it applies to health and human services. This course explores the contemporary issues facing health professionals, which include ethics, regulations and compliance, and handling protected healthcare information. In this course, learners will develop their ability to make ethical decisions in collaborative care environments and working within a team. There are no prerequisites for this course.

This course is a foundational introduction to the biological sciences. The overarching theories of life from biological research are explored as well as the fundamental concepts and principles of the study of living organisms and their interaction with the environment. Key concepts include how living organisms use and produce energy; how life grows, develops, and reproduces; how life responds to the environment to maintain internal stability; and how life evolves and adapts to the environment.

This course focuses on developing foundational skills in scientific investigation within the field of biology. It emphasizes the application of the scientific method to answer biological questions through hypothesis-driven experimentation. Students will learn to design, execute, and analyze biological experiments, ensuring adherence to rigorous scientific protocols and ethical standards. The course also covers essential aspects of identifying and analyzing the components of a lab report by answering questions related to a simulated lab report. Throughout the course, students will cultivate critical thinking skills necessary for interpreting data, drawing conclusions, and proposing further research directions in biology.

General Chemistry I introduces foundational principles of chemistry, starting at the atomic level and expanding to the behavior of elements within the periodic table. This course explores how atoms bond to form molecules and proceeds into chemical reactions, acids and bases, solutions, and nuclear reactions. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of stability and change in chemical processes. This course highlights the practical aspects of chemistry, providing insights into how chemical principles underpin everyday phenomena and contribute to our understanding of environmental processes.

General Chemistry I Lab focuses on developing foundational skills in scientific investigation in chemistry. It emphasizes the application of the scientific method to answer chemistry questions through hypothesis-driven experimentation. Students will learn to design, execute, and analyze chemistry experiments, ensuring adherence to rigorous scientific protocols and ethical standards. The course also covers essential aspects of scientific communication, including writing clear and structured scientific reports and effectively presenting experimental findings. Throughout the course, students will cultivate critical thinking skills necessary for interpreting data and drawing conclusions.

General Biology II builds on foundational molecular, cellular, genetic, evolutionary, and ecological principles established in General Biology I. This course emphasizes systems-level biological thinking, focusing on how biological systems integrate structure and function to maintain homeostasis, regulate internal processes, manage energy and matter, and reproduce and adapt across time and scale. Learners analyze biological organization across molecular, cellular, organismal, and population levels. The course prioritizes evidence-based explanation of system behavior rather than memorization of isolated structures.

General Biology II Lab builds on the experimental foundations established in General Biology I Lab by emphasizing systems-level analysis, interpretation of biological data, and evidence-based reasoning. Rather than introducing new laboratory procedures or technical instrumentation, this lab strengthens learners’ ability to analyze and evaluate biological investigations related to: • Homeostasis and feedback regulation • Energy acquisition and allocation • Transport and exchange systems • Physiological and environmental responses • Reproduction and developmental processes

Genetics examines the molecular mechanisms of inheritance, gene regulation, and genetic variation across biological systems. The course emphasizes foundational molecular genetics, inheritance patterns, quantitative genetic prediction, and modern genetic technologies. Learners analyze how genetic information is stored, transmitted, regulated, and applied in biological and biotechnological contexts. The course integrates conceptual understanding with analytical reasoning to support STEM readiness.

This course examines the structure, function, and regulation of cellular systems, emphasizing how cells maintain homeostasis, metabolize energy, grow, divide, and respond to environmental stimuli. Learners analyze cellular components, genetic information flow, cell cycle regulation, and foundational cellular biology techniques. The course integrates structural biology, systems thinking, and applied biotechnology concepts to support STEM readiness.

Calculus I introduces the fundamental ideas of limits, derivatives, anti-derivatives, and basic differential equations as tools for modeling and solving real-world problems. Students explore how functions behave, how rates of change are measured and optimized, and how derivatives lead to applications in linear approximations and optimization. The basics of how accumulated quantities (antiderivatives) are computed using the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus are also introduced. Emphasis is placed on polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions, with applications drawn from science, engineering, economics, and technology. Students will focus on conceptual understanding, graphical interpretation, and applied problem-solving rather than formal proofs. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze change, model systems, and apply calculus techniques to practical scenarios.

General Chemistry II builds on foundational principles introduced in General Chemistry I. The course emphasizes energy transfer, molecular structure and representation, and quantitative relationships governing chemical systems. Learners apply thermodynamic principles, molecular conventions, and quantitative reasoning to analyze physical and chemical processes across a range of contexts. The course prioritizes conceptual understanding supported by mathematical reasoning. Learners are expected to interpret models, perform calculations, and analyze system behavior using established chemical laws and principles. This course supports preparation for advanced STEM coursework.

General Chemistry II Lab provides applied experience analyzing chemical processes using structured scientific investigation within a virtual laboratory environment. Learners design, execute, and interpret a multi-part chemical investigation that integrates quantitative reasoning, thermodynamic principles, and chemical system analysis. The lab emphasizes: • Experimental design within defined parameters • Data collection and interpretation • Quantitative analysis of results • Evaluation of experimental error • Clear communication of scientific conclusions Additional chemistry content also appears under the competency notes. This lab supports application of lecture concepts through guided investigation rather than independent research design.

Organic Chemistry I introduces foundational principles governing the structure, properties, and reactivity of organic molecules. The course develops analytical reasoning skills by emphasizing structure–reactivity relationships, acid–base behavior, stereochemistry, and introductory mechanistic logic. Learners analyze how covalent bonding, hybridization, geometry, and intermolecular interactions influence chemical behavior. The course extends foundational general chemistry principles (polarity, equilibrium, acid–base theory) within explicitly organic contexts and develops mechanistic reasoning using curved-arrow formalism. Emphasis is placed on conceptual understanding and predictive reasoning rather than memorization of reaction catalogs.

Organic Chemistry I Laboratory reinforces foundational organic chemistry principles through applied laboratory investigation. The course emphasizes safe laboratory practice, execution of foundational organic techniques, analysis of experimental results, and scientific documentation within introductory organic contexts. Learners apply standard organic chemistry laboratory techniques, including purification, separation, and compound characterization, while reinforcing chemical safety and scientific reasoning. The lab prioritizes procedural accuracy, analytical interpretation, and clear documentation rather than advanced instrumentation or research-level design.

Organic Chemistry II builds upon foundational principles established in Organic Chemistry I to examine advanced organic reactions, functional group transformations, introductory synthesis planning, and spectroscopic structure determination. The course emphasizes mechanistic reasoning, structure-reactivity relationships, and analytical interpretation of chemical data. Reaction families are sequenced to support conceptual scaffolding and transferability across functional group systems. Foundational concepts such as oxidation-reduction are reviewed within explicitly organic contexts. Learners analyze reaction pathways, evaluate transformation strategies, and interpret spectroscopic information to justify structural conclusions.

Organic Chemistry II Laboratory emphasizes applied organic synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization. The course integrates experimental techniques with analytical reasoning and spectroscopic interpretation to reinforce lecture-based concepts. Learners conduct structured organic synthesis procedures aligned to lecture reaction families and analyze resulting products using purification and spectroscopic methods. Emphasis is placed on procedural accuracy, safe laboratory practice, analytical interpretation, troubleshooting, and scientific documentation. The laboratory advances beyond foundational technique execution by integrating synthesis with structural verification while maintaining introductory scope.