BIOL - Biology
Credits
4
Credits
4
Credits
4
University Life introductory course. It begins with specific conferences offered by the various departments of the University, for students to familiarize with the overall University activities and the opportunities it offers the during their university life.
Credits
1
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0
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0
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This course introduces a systematic , practical study on evolutionary patterns of the main organism groups (Bacteria, Protists, Plants, Fungae and Animals), and the evolutionary processes responsible for their origin and diversification. Emphasis is made on the study of Phylogenic Systems as a discipline that generates hypotheses on organism relationships and there is an introduction of fundamental concepts and methods of evolutionary biology.
Credits
3
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0
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This course offers a practical supplement to the theoretical contents of the Organisms Biology program (BIOL1300). Laboratory practices illustrate the biology aspects of the various groups or organisms (Bacteria, Protist, Plants, Fungae, Animals) and emphasize the phylogenic relationships among the various groups.
Credits
1
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Credits
3
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In this course, students learn to recognize poisonous and venomous animals in general and with an emphasis on Colombia and neighboring countries. At the end of the course, students will be able to recognize the morphological, behavioral, ecological, and taxonomical characteristics and geographic location of these animals. Students will also learn about the action and production of poison and measures to prevent accidents, as well as first aid.
Credits
3
The objective of this course is to study theories at molecular, cellular and organism levels that intend to explain functions related to living organisms. It emphasizes two aspects related to biology and psychology: (1) recent studies on biological basis (neuronal, hormonal, ecophysiological) of particular features of human behavior, and (2) discussion of hypothesis on the ecological and evolutionary function of predisposition in sexual, social and aggressive behavior in animals and humans.
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course encourages the ability to solve simple experimental biology problems in order to understand the value of biology as a tool for psychology research. Furthermore, it encourages the students´ development of skills for discussion, synthesis and oral communication based on their own and others´ research projects.
Credits
0
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This course is intended to promote among students of disciplines other than Biological Sciences the understanding of ecological phenomena through the study of the interaction of organisms with their environment and among themselves. It analyzes the individual concepts associated with abiotic relationships, emphasizing on life basis and requirements. At this level, and relying on the biological notion of species, the following biotic phenomena are illustrated, competition, predation, socialization, sexual selection and reproductive modes. It also emphasizes on population dynamic concepts, community structures, successions and biogeography.
Credits
3
Instructor
Patterson James
The purpose of this course is to teach students how through genetics we can understand processes of our evolution history and how our DNA carries a history that is shared by all of us. This course offers students an important vision where DNA analysis can be associated with the geographic distribution of populations, and support different anthropological hypotheses, such as the origin of man in Africa, his process of distribution around the planet, as well as genetic history and relations within and among populations, and to solve many questions, such as: Who are we? How did we come this far?, When did we come to this planet? And why does the human race is so diverse as to color and distinctive features?
Credits
3
Credits
3
Distribution
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The intent of this course if for students to discover the broad range of uses that Men, as of their early origin, have made of plants and their products, in different times and different societies. Emphasis is made on the social and historical impact derived from the exploitation, production or commercialization of plant products and their continued economic importance and on how Human survival depends on them.
Credits
3
Distribution
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Credits
3
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The course ?Ecology, principles and applications? has been designed with the aim to introduce the students, from disciplines other than the biological sciences, to the comprehension of ecological phenomena through the study of the interaction of organisms between themselves and with their environment. The course explores the way in which ecological and evolutive processes define the world we live in, starting with organisms as the fundamental unit of ecology and exploring the physical environment’s role in life requirements. Later in the course, the ecological systems and the processes involved are studied, by evaluating populations, communities and ecosystems as units of natural election, evolution and biodiversity. The course concludes with the ecosystems in Colombia, natural parks, sustainability and conservation, oriented to the understanding of the impact that human activity produces in the environment through the application of the knowledge acquired during the course.
Credits
3
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0
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Credits
3
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Credits
3
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Credits
3
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This course deals with basic genetic concepts according to vision of classical and molecular genetics, taking into account the fundamental mechanisms of the genetic expression. Specific subjects are covered, namely: genetics and living organisms, genes and environment, genetic information flow, heritage and variations, genetic transmission laws, expansion of mendelian principles, linkage and recombination, genetic mapping, genes mapping, genes and chromosome mutations, genomics, genetic manipulation, among others.
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course develops practices that enable the students to verify through experimentation some of the basic principles of heritage using Drosophila melanogaster as biological model. The course is supplemented with field work intended to become acquainted with the relationships existing among the various Drosophila species and their environment. It also attempts to evidence ecological interactions, particularly with the flora, as indications of co evolution processes.
Credits
1
Distribution
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This course develops four modules: basics of microevolution, basics of macroevolution and genome evolution, basics of adaptation and speciation and basics of microbes evolution. In the last part of the course, a mini-symposium is held, where the students, through brief lectures, make presentations on current and specially relevant evolution topics such as: sexual selection, evolution of senescence, of sexual selection in speciation, ecological speciation, reinforcement of reproductive isolation, speciation through hybridization, evolution in concert with and horizontal transfer, among others.
Credits
3
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This course studies in depth the concepts dealt with in theory, through exercises and readings related to each topic.
Credits
1
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3
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Credits
4
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This course addresses the main characteristics of bacteria, protozoon, fungae and acellular organisms, as well as their importance in ecosystems, diversity and interactions. It reviews the origin and evolution of prokaryote and eukaryote organisms, as well as their current taxonomic organization based on molecular data. It addresses basic morphology, physiology and microbe genetics and physiology, exchange of genetic material, interesting groups of bacteria, fungae, and protists, ecology and extreme habitats. As regards acellular organisms, some relevant viruses are studied, as well as bacteriophages, viroids and prions. Likewise, industrial biotechnology and environmental microbiology aspects are reviewed. The course implies making presentations and holding discussions of articles on different topics, with special emphasis on those describing interactions established by microorganisms with other organisms.
Credits
3
In this course the students learn how to recognize various groups of microorganisms and basic techniques to work with them at the laboratory such as isolation, counting as of environmental samples, preparation of plates and coloring, and amplification of the SSU rDNA gene. Additionally, a short guided project is developed on several subjects, including production and quantification of rhamnolipids produced by bacteria, bioremediation of phenol with bacteria, bacteriophages isolation, among others.
Credits
1
Instructor
Lara Rodriguez Ana
This course studies the levels of organization, basics of taxonomy and morphology of the major invertebrates Phyla. The corporal plans and ontogenesis of each Phylum are compared to thus understand their relationships and evolutionary trends, according to current theories on animal Phylogenesis. The shape and function of invertebrates are generally related to their medium and forms of life, emphasizing on the degree of specialization and biological success.
Credits
3
Distribution
-
In this course representatives of each Phylum are characterized and compared. In addition, it entails an in-depth analysis of morphological and ontogenetic studies of material collected and preserved to establish Phylogenesis relationships among the main Phyla of invertebrates. The program content is supplemented with a field trip where the students apply the learning achieved.
Credits
1
Distribution
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This course provides students with an overview of the various groups of existing and disappeared plant organisms. Studies are addressed from a morphological, anatomic, biological and evolutionary standpoint of autotrophous protists (algae), lichens, bryophytes, seedless vascular plants, gymnosperms and angiosperms. Emphasis is made on material plants evolutionary steps: transition from aquatic to terrestrial environments, acquisition of vascularization, first appearance of seeds and fruit. Emphasis is made on angiosperms, highlighting the causes for their success and diversity.
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course´s work is based on observations of fresh or preserved material and micro-preparations, analyzing representatives of each group of plant organisms studied theoretically. The structures that characterize each of these groups are identified and studies as related to their functions and adaptation value.
Credits
1
Distribution
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In this course students are trained to understand how abiotic conditions, as well as biotic interactions (competition, depredation, parasitism and mutualism) can determine the abundance of individuals in populations and their geographical distribution ranges. This includes the possible role of evolutionary Sand historical processes to understand current ecological patterns. Furthermore, students are introduced to the formulation of ecological hypothesis and experimental designs to prove them.
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course, with the aid of simulation programs, generates spaces where students can visualize the importance of the various ecological factors to explain abundance in populations. Additionally, students are trained to present scientific papers and research questions for development at the field.
Credits
1
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This course includes an overview of the diversity, evolution, anatomy, ecology and natural history of the various groups comprised in the subphylum Vertebrata, animals with a backbone. The connecting thread of this course are the hypothesis of Phylogenesis relationships proposed for various vertebrate clades. Phylogenesis perspectives allow for emphasizing the importance of compared biology studies, and illustrating different key notions in evolutionary biology, using vertebrates as a study model. In addition to offering an overview of vertebrates at a global level, it emphasizes on knowledge of diversity, distribution, systematic and ecology of the various taxa existing in Colombia.
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course supplements theory classes with anatomy studies based on specimens and illustrated with practice of relevant notions that are required to understand the diversification of vertebrates. Laboratory emphasis doe snot consist in an exhaustive memorizing of the structures that make up the various systems (skeletal, muscle, etc.) of organisms, but rather the comprehensive study of important features that are distinctive of each group, and the adaptations associated with the different vertebrate forms of life. Access to the reference collection at the recently organized Natural History Museum will provide first hand knowledge about basic aspects of Colombian vertebrates.
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1
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2
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2
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2
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3
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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This course introduces students to population genetics and phylogeography as basic areas to understand the processes that lead to species formation. Students learn about basic theoretical topics such as: linkage unbalance, natural selection, evolution in polygenic characters, endogamy, genetic drift and flow and introduction to the theory of coalescence, among others.
Credits
3
Distribution
-
Instructor
Linares Porto Mauricio
This course teaches students methodologies involving biocomputing in population genetics, in order to estimate parameters to make predictions about evolution history of species based on molecular, behavioral and ecological data (provided in the course). The work plan includes a field trip to collect part of these data in wild population and students analyze these data through statistical models and methods in order to infer about relevant topics to species formation and the origin of adaptations.
Credits
1
Distribution
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Instructor
Casta?O Andrade Jully
Phylogenesis is one of the topics within biological sciences with the greatest spectrum in terms of diversity of study subjects, scientific productivity and impact in recent years. The phylogenic reconstruction is a commonly used tool within a broad range of disciplines associated with the evolutionary biology of organisms, as well as in various biomedical and microbiological applications. Phylogenesis Systematic, after several weeks on its basic aspects, will study in depth some of its applications to thus maximize the understanding of how useful this tool is, while the student understands the different tools and methods in phylogenetics. The course ends with research seminars where the students, independently conduct a reanalysis of one or more phylogenetic studies in the group or topic of their choice.
Credits
3
This course provides the knowledge and skills on the use of informatics tools to carry out phylogenias. The practice includes different exercises that allow students to become familiarized with the state of the art of procedures used to perform phylogenetic analyses. These exercises require one or two laboratory sessions, depending on their complexity. The objective of the professors and monitors is to help the students understand processes, bioinformatics programs, as well as to become interested in the use of phylogenetic methods in any branch of biology.
Credits
1
Credits
2
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-
Credits
4
Distribution
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This course offers an introduction to vital processes that take place inside any animal, as a reflection of its own homodynamic properties and the exchange of materials and energy with the environment. The goal is for students to analyze the relation between function, form and behavior as an adaptation assembly that reflects abilities and limitations of organisms to use the opportunities provided by the environment.
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course validates theoretical concepts through critical analysis of procedures used to establish generalizations. It promotes the development of logic and procedures used for experimentation in animal physiology. It also practices the design, analysis and oral and written communication of scientific results.
Credits
1
Distribution
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This course provides the students with fundamental notions of plant´s physiology. Particular emphasis is made hydric relations, mineral nutrition, photosynthesis, and regulation of growth and development. It also emphasizes on adaptation of plant organisms to the environment.
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course, based on selected experiments, is aimed at pinpointing some basic concepts and quantifying some physiological processes. Furthermore, the students learn how to present and analyze results according to the scientific method and also acquire experimental design notions.
Credits
1
Distribution
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In this course the students are provided with basic knowledge of development patterns in the main animal biological models. It is also intended to analyze development mechanisms from E244tissue and organismic perspectives. The first part of the course is focused on the basis of development, emphasizing on genetic and molecular levels. The second part, based on a comparative vision, focuses on the early and late development for insects, amphibious, fish, birds and mammals. The final part of the course analyzes development processes from an evolutionary perspective. The usefulness and application of experimental techniques and strategies as study tools of development biology are studied throughout the course. E251
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course offers the students a possibility to supplement their theoretical knowledge of development biology. To this end, a review is performed, from a comparative perspective, histological cuts and assembly of plates from issues subjected to experimentation.
Credits
1
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Credits
3
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1
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This course presents basic concepts of ecology of communities, with an emphasis on tropical forests. The course includes a first phase of topics related to the community, its properties, components, and development through time (succession and paleo-environments). The second phase includes mainly topics related to patterns of diversity and wealth of species in tropical communities, with an emphasis on issues of seed dispersal and forest regeneration. The course also shows evolution approaches that have been developed recently to understand the assembly of community and neutral theories.
Credits
3
Distribution
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Instructor
Stevenson Pablo
This course dwells on two main aspects. First, students are trained in the analysis of variables of Ecology of Communities (population density estimation, diversity indexes, preference and overlap). Second, students gain experience in preparing a research project by designing a sample protocol and developing it in the field (optional).
Credits
1
Distribution
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Instructor
Guzman Caro Diana
This course offers the students an introduction of the main groups of seed plants, with emphasis on the Angiosperms family represented in the neotropical flora. It studies the morphology and biology of plants in a systematic context, underling the special characteristics of plants in our environment, such as their ecological and economic importance. The course is supplemented with an introduction to phylogenetic systematic applied to the plants and the history of botanics. E246
Credits
2
Distribution
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As an integral part of the theoretical course, this course focuses on live material from various groups of plants. It includes field visits to important ecosystems such as high plateaus and mountain forests, as well as visits to Bogota´s Botanic Garden.
Credits
1
Distribution
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The purpose is to recognize the role of animal behavior as a response to environmental pressure over organisms in evolution, and also, to acknowledge the ecological importance of behavior flexibility, compared to morphological and physiological features of organisms. The course also discusses the physiological basis of processes associated with the expression of animal behavior. It channels the interest of students in animal behavior in order to provide theoretical fundamentals that enable a better understanding of evolution history, the functioning and value of animals
Credits
3
This course validates theoretical concepts through critical analysis of procedures used to establish generalizations. It promotes the development of logic and procedures used for experimentation in animal behavior. It also practices the design, analysis and oral and written communication of scientific results.
Credits
1
Instructor
Velasquez Escobar Beatriz
Credits
3
Distribution
-
Credits
1
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This course teaches the basic concepts and principles of Conservation Biology. It initially reviews 1) what (levels and attributes of biological diversity) and 2) why it is to be preserved (environmental and ecological, economic, social and cultural values of biodiversity). Then, the indirect causes of biodiversity losses are identified (ej. fragmentation, tree felling, pollution, climate change, diseases and invasions), and the strategies and mechanisms to counteract them (preservation in situ, ex situ and sustainable use). Finally, topics beyond biology are addressed, including conventions, national and international treaties and protocols that support the preservation and the theory of sustainable development.
Credits
3
Distribution
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This course teaches two fundamental tools for the practice of preserving biodiversity. 1. Predicting the future of the population based on demographic data, using matrix-based programs. 2. Estimating exchange rates in landscape coverage, using geographical information systems. In addition, students are trained in management of extinction risk categories proposed by the IUCN and optional field projects are proposed on preservation subjects.
Credits
1
Distribution
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The course presents general vision of the diversity, classification, evolution, anatomy, physiology, ecology, biogeography and natural history of the different groups in the Class Aves (birds). The main axis of the course is the hypothesis of phylogenetic relations proposed for various bird clades. The phylogenetic perspective will place different aspects of biology of modern birds in a context of evolution, and illustrate different core concepts in evolution biology taking birds as models for study. Apart from presenting a general overview of birds at a global level, emphasis will be made on the knowledge of diversity, distribution, systematic and ecology of birds in Colombia. In order to have a basic understanding of the identification of large groups of Colombian birds, theoretical classes and laboratory will be complemented with field trips.
Credits
3
Distribution
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The ornithology laboratory supports theoretical concepts with practices related to ecomorphology, anatomy, bird taxonomy, with an emphasis on Colombian species and introduces students to bird watching and the main methodologies to be used in the field and the laboratory.
Credits
3
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3
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2
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1
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3
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1
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2
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3
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1
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3
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Under the tutorship of a thesis committee, students prepare a written proposal, the basis of their graduation project, in a specific area of biology. This must include a justification and the objectives of the project, a literature review, the necessary procedures to gather data and a schedule of activities. The special regulations manual must be consulted.
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0
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Credits
4
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Credits
6
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2
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0
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All program students who are planning to graduate during the current semester must enroll in this course.
Credits
3
Instructor
Cadena Ordonez Carlos
Credits
6
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3
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0
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