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Course Descriptions - BSBD (Biosecurity and Biodefense)

BSBD 640 Agents of Bioterrorism (3)

An examination of the probable weapons of biowarfare, including biological, chemical and nuclear weapons, from several perspectives. Topics include their mechanism of action, biological impact, detection and recognition, epidemiology and treatment. Their potential dangers and effectiveness are evaluated, and strategies for defense against attacks by such weapons are investigated. Discussion covers the bioethical challenges of anti-bioterror research.

BSBD 641 Biosecurity and Bioterrorism (3)

(Formerly BIOT 681.) A review of bioterrorism, biosecurity and government biodefense strategy, including the history and science of biological agents in agriculture and society. Discussion covers surveillance; public health preparedness; response; and recovery at the community, state and federal government levels. Various aspects of the law, including the Posse Comitatus Act and federal and state quarantine powers, are introduced. The mental health consequences of bioterrorism are also discussed. A case study of a hypothetical biological attack is analyzed in detail.

BSBD 642 Advanced Biosecurity and Bioterrorism (3)

(Formerly BIOT 683.) Prerequisite: BIOT 681 or BSBD 641. A thorough examination of special and advanced topics in bioterroism and biosecurity issues. Topics include the hidden biological warfare programs of the 20th century; advances in biotechnology and molecular microbiology and the dilemma of dual use research; domestic and foreign terrorist groups, including rogue states; state-of-the-art microbial forensics; ethics and civil rights; and current trends in policy development, consequence management and public health responses to new threats to homeland security. Discussion also addresses special topics of the students’ choice. Future challenges in biosecurity are also discussed as part of a comprehensive bioterrorism exercise and the analysis of case studies of hypothetical threats.