From the Ebola virus to smallpox to anthrax, disease and the risk of epidemics has been a common topic in news reports and a growing concern for many people. How then do we understand the nature of these diseases, the way they spread, how they can be controlled, and the true risk they may pose? Take a multi-disciplinary approach to studying epidemics, pandemics, and the infectious agents that can cause them. Focus primarily on the viruses, bacteria, and other infectious agents, including how they evade the immune system and cause their respective diseases. Explore the fields of genetics, biochemistry, public health, epidemiology, pharmacology, history, and anthropology to better understand the full effect of these diseases. While not a lab-based class, activities will include discussions, literature review, research projects, and interactive, hands-on simulations, some of which may take place in a lab.