3.7

John Yoder

Biology - University of Alabama

3.7
Quality
4.0
Difficulty
61%
Would Retake
110
Reviews
3.7
Quality
4.0
Difficulty
3.7
Helpful
3.6
Clarity

61%

Would Retake

110

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

44

4

25

3

19

2

13

1

9

What Students Say

Horrible 0/10 makes you feel stupid if you ask questions and doesnt ever explain something in a way students can understand

BSC300 - 1.0 rating

This class will take up all of your time

BSC300 - 3.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

30%

Textbook Required

27%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 60 grades
Most common grades:
A (19)
A+ (12)
B (8)
Grade Distribution
A(31)B(11)C(11)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(5)
Based on 62 reported grades
A: 19
A+: 12
B: 8
C: 8
Common Tags
TEST HEAVY (18)
Test heavy (17)
EXTRA CREDIT (13)
Lecture heavy (13)
LECTURE HEAVY (11)
Get ready to read (10)
Respected (8)
Tough Grader (7)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.15 avg change
Jul
Sep
Jan
Apr
Jun
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

441

5.0

(1)

BSC441

5.0

(2)

BIO114

4.3

(4)

BSC116

4.0

(1)

BSC301

4.0

(1)
+3 more courses
Difficulty by Course

BSC116

5.0

BSC127

5.0

BSC300

4.2

441

4.0

BSC441

4.0

Reviews (110)
4.0
4.0
BSC114
May 12, 2008

Still trying to get his academic sea legs. In the mean time, beware.

4.0
5.0
BSC116
May 19, 2008

New to teaching and still trying to figure out the system. Attendance is mandatory but works in your favor with extra points here and there. Read prior to class and read the notes 1000 times before the test. The tests are difficult due to alot of information so don't procrastinate

3.0
5.0
BSC127
Jun 23, 2008

I spent more time studying in this class than my other 4 classes combined. I had A's in my other classes and a D in this one. Even if you go to class, you have a slim chance of making %100 on his daily quizes.

1.0
5.0
BSC114
Jul 19, 2008

Dr. Yoder is a nice guy, but lacks teaching skills. He is a researcher for the university and therefore, he is extremely difficult. His tests are ridiculously hard. I studied very much for his class all semester but still ended up with a C. Good Luck!

2.0
5.0
BSC114
Jul 19, 2008

He is very passionate about the subject but seriously lacks on teaching the material. I went to class everyday and managed a C-. He is very hard. His tests are ridiculously hard. I would recommend taking a different teacher if you were to get him.

3.0
4.0
BIO114
Jul 30, 2008

Love him to death, but really challenges you. GO TO CLASS!!!! And READ YOUR TEXTBOOK!! It really helps.

2.0
5.0
BSC114
Apr 8, 2009

Ridiculously hard. Puts his PowerPoint slides on the internet, but they aren't very helpful. Gives tons of homework (via MasteringBio.com) and never tells you when its due. Reads directly from slides during lecture. Tests are really hard. Has quizzes for attendance every day. I'd look elsewhere for a BSC 114 teacher.

4.0
1.0
BSC114
Apr 14, 2009

Easy teacher. Most if not all of his test questions come from either homework, daily quizzes, and the powerpoint sides.

4.0
3.0
BSC114
Apr 27, 2009

Three rules:1.Go to class 2.Read the book along with the notes(It's the only way the notes are going to make sense) 3.Study ahead of time for test(Not 2-3 days, like 1-2 weeks).This class includes alot of material and unless you're a genius please don't expect to comprehend all of it over night.He gives easy daily quizzes, usually from the day befo

2.0
5.0
BSC114
May 7, 2009

The book is what kept me from completely failing. Made it out with a C. He needs to learn how to communicate the material better, not just preach to people about biology. The online hw helped, his slideshows did not. Take someone else, he's only taught 2 semesters and not well.

5.0
4.0
BSC114
May 27, 2009

Dr. Yoder's class was very fair. I went into it having read the ratings on this website, and to be honest I was pretty nervous. He had about a 1.3 rating for easiness which is lower than most all of the other teachers listed.. However, I ended up with an A+. If you attend class regularly and take the daily clicker quizzes (which are easy if you ...

4.0
4.0
BSC114
May 27, 2009

continued.. easy if you just pay attention), spend some time each day reviewing the material, and rely on the book to learn the material (because the powerpoints are a bit vague), you will do just fine. You will also need to start study about a week in advance for his tests.. Not an easy class, but if you try hard you will do just fine.

5.0
3.0
BSC114
Apr 23, 2010

Dr. Yoder is a great professor. He is extremely organized and follows his presentations perfectly. His explanations about the material are quite good. We have "daily" clicker quizzes- daily meaning most days. He uses MasteringBiology which is helpful. His exams are challenging, but not impossible. If you study and listen, you will do well.

5.0
4.0
BSC114
Apr 26, 2010

I think Yoder's a good teacher. Use masteringbio to help you study; it has cumulative chapter tests. Also, study the clicker questions; he usually uses those on his tests. His lectures are difficult to pay attention to, so we usually ended up hardcore studying 4-5 days before the test and made A's. But It's probably not the wisest idea.

5.0
5.0
BSC114
May 1, 2010

he is a great teacher. but his test is HARD! and is hard to get a A or B in his class. anyway. he is a nice and helpful teacher.

2.0
3.0
BSC114
May 4, 2010

He was okay. Definitely try to take another teacher if you can avoid him. He literally just reads off the powerpoint slides. It is extremely difficult to pay attention. His first test was a joke. Then they got progressively harder. STUDY at least a few days in advance (at the very least).

4.0
3.0
BIO114
May 6, 2010

Couldn't stand him. Just reads off of his powerpoints. Class is soo boring

4.0
3.0
BSC114
May 8, 2010

Nice guy, but the only thing Yoder loves more than biology is talking about biology. He sort of just talks the whole time while everyone else just dies of boredom. Read the book and highlight the important parts and you can do well on the tests. Tests are not bad if you read the chapters, but if you don't then they'd probably be incredibly hard.

3.0
3.0
BSC114
May 20, 2010

If you go to class and listen, which is hard to do because of the boredom, you'll do fine. That and if you study. The final wasn't cumulative and didn't count any more than the others thankfully. Overall not too bad of a teacher

5.0
5.0
BSC114
Jun 22, 2010

Dr. Yoder is the awesomest teacher in the biology department. His class is really hard but I loved studying for that class. He really made me think. He is hot.

3.0
4.0
BSC114
Apr 12, 2011

NOT easy! If you can don't take his class. There are much easier professors teaching this course. Nice guy but hard!

5.0
1.0
BSC114
May 13, 2011

Dr Yoder is a great teacher, he is very knowledgeable and makes sure the class understands what is being taught. All lectures are available online for printing before class. You have to go to class because there are daily clicker questions, but it is worth it because they are used as extra credit which adds up to 5 points to your final grade.

5.0
1.0
BSC114
May 13, 2011

Dr. Yoder is a great teacher. He knows what he is talking about and makes sure the class knows what is going on before moving on. The lecture notes are online for printing. Attending class is important because there are daily clicker quizes. At the end of the semester the quizzes act as extra credit, adding up to 5 points to your final grade.

5.0
4.0
BIO114
Jun 1, 2011

This class is just hard, but bio is hard for me. He was very helpful when i had questions and worked with me on my grades. He's compassionate and understanding. Read the book, study material as it is learned and don't get behind, it's so hard to catch up. exams are not cumulative and there are four. Daily quizzes help boost grade so do well.

5.0
5.0
BSC114
Apr 10, 2012

Great teacher! explains things really well and is always willing to help, but his test are SUPER hard!

4.0
5.0
BSC114
May 24, 2012

Yoder is a good teacher but his tests are EXTREMELY difficult. I would recommend taking someone else for this class.

5.0
3.0
BSC114
Mar 11, 2013

Dr. Yoder is an excellent lecturer and is really interesting to listen to. His test count for 4/5s of the grade and the final is not cumulative. I did well, but I read all of the chapters. Others have struggled, but if you read, you will succeed.

4.0
4.0
BSC114
Apr 22, 2013

Professor Yoder knows what he is talking about, but his test's are ridiculous. No matter how much you study if you get behind you will most likely stay behind. It's a science you have to want to learn about it to stay interested. Classes are mandatory with clicker questions each day.

5.0
4.0
BIO114
May 1, 2013

Great professor. Has very in depth lectures and knows everything he's talking about. Very effective elaboration on question. Always eiger to help struggling students. Make sure you study. His tests are application based instead of straight forward. You'll need to understand the material, not just memorize it.

5.0
1.0
BSC114
Aug 2, 2013

Dr. Yoder is the man. He's so enthusiastic and it's infectious! He loves his subject and really appreciate those who come to class and will reward them in some way! Despite the other reviews, his tests questions come STRAIGHT from the textbook and homework if you just take the time to get familiar with it.

5.0
1.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2014

Dr. Yoder is the bomb. He is passionate about his material and it's contagious. He's really nice and will explain something until you understand. He's approachable outside of class and really wants you to do well. I recommend only studying the slides for his tests. His tests aren't easy but are mainly definition based. Easy A if you pay attention.

5.0
2.0
BSC300
Apr 28, 2014

Dr. Yoder is phenomenal! He is incredibly knowledgable about the topics discussed in class and shares his wealth of information and experience readily. He responds well to students who seem invested in doing well and learning in a more comprehensive way. If you attend class and study the power points, you'll likely earn an A. Take him if you can!

5.0
2.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Apr 29, 2014

Dr. Yoder is a journalist-turned-biologist who has an evident passion for biology. His enthusiasm is, as others have said, often contagious (particularly when the material is interesting.) Go to class, take your quizzes, and be respectful, and everything will be fine. Good luck!

5.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: A
May 2, 2014

Dr. Yoder is very enthusiastic about biology! He's a nerd and has a quirky sense of style and humor. His tests are not designed to trick you, so study the slides (even the things you don't think will be on the test), and you'll do well. He really respects attendance, so get up and go to class!!! Try getting to know him; that helps too. Take him!!!

5.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: B
May 5, 2014

Give this man a chili pepper. What a fox. Dr. Yoder rocks!

5.0
3.0
BSC300
May 18, 2014

Dr. Yoder is a fine specimen and a good professor. Don't leave in the middle of class (he gets cranky about that), and go to class. Study the lecture slides a few nights before, and you will make a good grade. Watch out for the glycolysis/TCA/ETC exam--it's tough. Take him; he's nice to look at :)

3.0
5.0
BSC300
Dec 7, 2014

He changed his tests completely. This is the hardest class I have ever taken. (Major: Chemical Engineering, Minor: Biology) The test are extremely long and specific. I would take organic again before his class. He is very willing to help his students.

3.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Apr 15, 2015

Recently changed his exam style, and it is IMPOSSIBLE to do well on. Mostly free response, and even he said he regretted doing that midway through the semester. Nice guy, pretty clear in lectures. Went to office hours and he "helps" but does not really give you any tips or help you understand the material better. Nice guy, tough teacher. Beware.

5.0
4.0
441
Grade: A+
Jun 7, 2015

Dr. Yoder's developmental biology class was challenging. The information, especially in the middle third of the class, can be detailed. Exams are fill-in-the-blank, short essay, or long essay. Dr. Yoder is the man, though. He's always willing to work with you and wants to see you succeed. Take this class - it's really cool - just be ready to read!

5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Jul 10, 2015

As others have mentioned, his tests can be pretty nasty, but he gives good lectures and is available for questions. The book was pretty helpful, and I definitely advise making detailed notecards to quiz yourself. Side-note, this was the quietest lecture I have ever been in, so don't plan to talk during lecture.

4.0
4.0
BSC300
Oct 5, 2015

The good: Yoder is very nice and helpful. He can answer any questions you throw at him. The Bad: His tests are tough. and he lectures fast. He also has a semi-hypnotic voice that can put you to sleep.

3.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: D
Dec 2, 2015

He is a super interesting guy, but he talks very fast in order to put as much information as possible into his lecture. Always talked up to the end. Tests were crazy hard. You could not just memorize the material, but had to apply the tiniest details. Attendance was not recorded but in order to even get an D you need to go. He puts the PP online.

3.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: B
Dec 7, 2015

His tests are 70+ multiple choice, short answer, and fill in the blank questions. They are awful. He is okay, but expects students to know EVERYTHING. Will not curve if the class average is a C.

4.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: B+
Dec 9, 2015

Great teacher, lectures can be long but try to stay with him. Tests aren't horrible if you study up! Very heavy on terms and definitions

3.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: D-
Dec 10, 2015

Super nice guy, but as every other person has already mentioned, his tests are AWFUL. They're usually 70/80 questions & about half fill in the blank, half multiple choice. He goes really fast and expects you to know every single little detail about everything. You really have to bust your butt to pass but it's possible. I wouldn't recommend him.

4.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: B
Dec 15, 2015

I loved Dr. Yoder's class. His test were difficult but this is a upper level biology class in college. Although they were hard, his slides had all the info you needed to know. He also posted the notes online. I would take again.

3.0
5.0
BSC300
Jan 8, 2016

If you don't read everyday and memorize his powerpoints, you will not succeed in this class. The material is vast and very specific so you need to pay attention and study after lectures. His tests are multiple choice, fill in the blank and short answer so guessing is often going to get you no where. Nice man, awful teacher.

3.0
4.0
BSC300
Feb 14, 2016

He lectures very fast and will slow down if asked, but speeds right back up 10 minutes later. The class material isn't overly difficult, but his tests are monsters. He tries to be helpful, but because so much of your grade is determined by the tests it doesn't really matter.

2.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Jun 26, 2016
Wouldn't take again

I would not take him again or at the same time as organic. It was a nightmare. Studying for his tests means memorizing every single thing on the slides and they are MONSTERS. His voice is monotone and he clearly does not care about the subject matter. It is possible to do well, but you have to study basically every night. I do not recommend him.

5.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Jun 28, 2016
Would take again

I really enjoyed taking this class, and Dr. Yoder is a very nice professor! His test questions came straight from the powerpoint. It is clear how passionate he is about this subject, and although he can go a bit fast, if you ask him to slow down he will. Best way I studied was by making flashcards on the ppts and studying them thoroughly.

5.0
4.0
BSC300
Aug 11, 2016
Would take again

Dr. Yoder was an amazing professor. Cell Bio was a very difficult class, but he takes every measure to make sure you are understanding it. He is open to questions and does well to explain answers the best he can. He is very nice outside of class as well. If you have any issues, I highly recommend seeing him during office hours.

CARES ABOUT STUDENTS
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: C
Aug 20, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Yoder is a nice guy, but his tests are extremely hard. They are a lot of questions in a short amount of time and require you to memorize the powerpoints in order to pass. He lectures VERY fast. If you go to his office hours he tries to be helpful, but because the test basically determine your grade it doesn't really matter.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BSC300
Nov 1, 2016
Wouldn't take again

THE hardest class I've taken. Your grade consists of exams, so if you're not a good test taker, DON'T TAKE HIM. The tests require you to memorize every detail from every powerpoint, so if your memorization skills aren't on "fleek," DON'T TAKE HIM. His only focus is getting through the slide; he's not very helpful or willing to answer questions.

TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BSC300
Nov 2, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Yoder makes this class extremely hard. He expects you to memorize everything on his slides and in the book for the tests. Your only grades come from the tests so if you mess up on one it's almost impossible to bring your grade up. He basically reads straight from his slides and doesn't like to answer questions during his lectures. Avoid him!

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: B-
Nov 3, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Tests are very hard. KNOW EVERYTHING ON VERY LONG POWERPOINTS, but don't expect everything to be on the test. Material flies by so if you want a good grade you have to spend a lot of time learning it outside of class. I recommend reading the textbook and the powerpoints prior to class.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: C-
Nov 16, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Chemistry major, so I know what its like to have to work hard in classes. Yoder takes this to another level, he flies through material emphasizing history instead of the actual content that will be on the tests. He does fill in the blank questions on tests as opposed to multiple choice and as the semester goes on he increases the amount, AVOID

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: C+
Nov 28, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Incredibly nice prof who wants students to succeed and is always willing to held. However, he creates some of the toughest exams you will ever see. Long, very detail oriented with lots of fill-in questions. All the material covered is provided online, but it helps to go to class, to hear what he emphasizes while talking.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
5.0
BSC300
Dec 6, 2016
Wouldn't take again

This class will take up ALL of your time. His tests are the hardest tests I've ever had, lots of fill in the blank and oddly worded questions. You have to memorize the slides, most material on the exam is from them. You can skip class but sometimes he emphasizes what he wants you to know if you go. Only tests determine your grade for this class.

TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: C
Dec 7, 2016
Wouldn't take again

This class in general is a weed out class, so it is incredibly hard. That being said Yoder takes it to a new level. His tests are really difficult with lots of fill in the blank where spelling counts and strangely worded multiple choice. He does really care about his student, but the overall grade is solely based on test grades.

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A-
Dec 13, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Your only grade is your 5 tests so if you do bad on one it is hard to make up for it. The only way I did good was reading the textbook and memorizing his powerpoint slides. I read them over and over again until I could look at the slide and just know what was on it. Make flashcards and read before class it will really help in the longterm

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2016
Would take again

Homework is optional but it is the only extra credit (aside from bringing cans in for BABH). allows up to 2% to be added to your final grade if you get 100% on all hw's. The rest of your grade is tests, no drop grade. Yoder is amazing! I highly recommend taking him for this class, cell bio is a lot of memorization but he keeps it interesting!!

Respected
TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: B-
Dec 22, 2016
Would take again

Honestly Yoder is one of the best professors in the biology department. He really cares about his students and their academic performance. THIS CLASS IS NOT EASY, as much of the material covered will be new, but his anecdotal stories actually help you retain the material. I would take him again any time. Good luck and don't waste your time reading

Tough Grader
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: C
Jan 16, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This is a difficult class, however Yoder put forth 0 effort towards making it easier. He gives little indications on what was really important in those slide, and often I spent weeks studying material that was barely covered on the 60+ question exams. Clearly knows what he's talking about, however he comes across as arrogant and rude.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Jan 26, 2017
Would take again

This class will take up all of your time. I wouldn't waste my time reading the textbook. Make sure you start memorizing every single thing on his powerpoints, and start memorizing literally the first day you have his class. There is no way you can cram the night before and pass his tests. I made flash cards of every slide and would review everyday

TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Jul 3, 2017
Would take again

Phenomenal professor and you will learn SO much from this class! The tests are decently difficult, but nothing more than you would expect from an upper level Bio class. You actually have to know the material (not just be familiar with it). But it is one of the best classes I've taken. Very helpful outside of class. Ask questions- he appreciates it.

Respected
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
2.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: C
Jul 20, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Lecture is pretty standard, going over the powerpoints. However memorize EVERYTHING on the powerpoints. He doesn't give much indication on which information is important so you have to memorize every detail (and the correct spelling) on the 50+ page powerpoints for each lecture. Your grade is based on five tests.

TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Nov 4, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Yoder is an excellent professor. He is extremely knowledgeable about the material he is teaching and really wants you to succeed if you put in the effort. I always ask questions and I feel like he appreciates that. The tests are very lecture heavy so skipping class really isn't an option. You need to know the lecture slides completely for exams

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
2.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A-
Nov 13, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Professor Yoder clearly knows the material. The trouble is he makes 60+ slide lectures and will test you on almost anything on those slides. Very little understanding required, just pure memorization. Too bad this is a required course, or I would avoid it.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
3.0
5.0
BSC300
Nov 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Yoder clearly knows his stuff but it doesn't transfer over well to students. I typically feel lost and confused after his lectures. I spend a ton of time outside of class preparing for his tests and learning the material on my own. There is a ridiculous amount of material to learn before each test. The class can be done but it takes a lot of effort

TEST HEAVY
Tests are tough
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
5.0
BSC300
Dec 18, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Yoder is a really great professor, the material is just very dense. Every lecture will be composed of 60 slide Powerpoint, each test on 6 or 7 lectures. Everything on the slides are fair game, so in order to do well you'll have to memorize everything. Take notes on the lecture before coming in to class! No drop grade or curve for any tests.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Tests are tough
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: B
Jan 10, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Lectures are hard to sit through. Grade is based on four tests and a possible three points come from homework. His tests started out being simple, but they got increasingly harder and were pretty much impossible. Studied for over two straight weeks for his last test and got a D.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Tests are tough
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BSC441
Apr 21, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Yoder is an amazing prof, one of the best I've had at UA. His lectures were interesting & he did his best to present some really tough information in a digestible way. Dev bio isn't an "easy" class but it is so worth the effort. I haven't enjoyed a bio class this much in a long time. Definitely take Yoder if you get the chance.

Respected
Participation matters
4.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2018
Would take again

You have to go to class and be prepared to study A LOT! But he explains everything well and his tests come straight from the powerpoints, you just have to know EVERYTHING on them. Also, his extra bonus points for doing all the homework add around 3-4 points per test which is HUGE!

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Nov 18, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Yoder is a wonderful professor. He is extremely knowledgeable about the material, and he explains it very well in lecture. He is also always willing to answer any questions students have during lecture, optional weekly review sessions, or office hours. Study and ask questions and you will do well in the course. Highly recommend!

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: C
Dec 20, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Yoder is very knowledgeable but lecture is him just going over the slides but he adds in little things you have to write down because they'll come up again. Homework counts as extra credit which is nice. Make sure to read the textbook and study after every lecture, hard to cram everything in before the test. He's approachable and a nice guy

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Dec 27, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Yoder clearly knows what he is talking about; however, this causes him to speak too quickly and move on too quickly. His grading process was generous (homework was up to 5% extra credit and we got additional extra credit for a food drive). The tests are extremely hard though.

TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Jan 18, 2019
Would take again

This class covers a ton of material, you will have to study a lot but it is possible to do well. The slides from class are the most important thing to study. Reading also helps if you have time.

TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Jan 21, 2019
Would take again

Cell Bio is a hard class, & Dr. Yoder truly does his best to prepare you for the tests. He goes very quickly through material that he thinks is "boring" but that doesn't mean its not on your tests. Studying the slides & going to office hours is very helpful. Dr. Yoder is great at explaining one on one and is happy to help if you express interest

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BSC300
Feb 5, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Horrible 0/10 makes you feel stupid if you ask questions and doesnt ever explain something in a way students can understand. Good luck

Tough Grader
LECTURE HEAVY
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BSC441
Grade: B+
Jun 25, 2019
Would take again

Dr. Yoder is an incredible speaker, presenter, and obviously very knowledgable of developmental biology. The class is test heavy so if you are not a big studier do not take this class!!! His tests are very challenging compared to others (use the textbook to study essay questions!) He really makes you work for your grade but is rewarding at the end.

Respected
Test heavy
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: C
Jun 27, 2019
Would take again

Cell Biology is one of the hardest Biology courses at the University. Professor Yoder is a great teacher. He is very straightforward, knowledgable and passionate about his teaching. He may come off as unapproachable at first but he is very sweet and helpful. Throughout his lecture he hints at testable material. GO TO OFFICE HOURS FOR HELP!!

Accessible outside class
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Jul 2, 2019
Would take again

Cell bio is way overhyped as a very difficult class. It is very straightforward, and Dr. Yoder does a brilliant job of explaining the concepts. He is very helpful outside of class, and his exams are very fair. Just read the textbook before class and study the lecture slides and you will get an A. Yoder is fantastic, and I highly recommend him.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Apr 30, 2020
Would take again

Yoder is a good choice for Cell Bio. Tests are the sole graded material, but he gave 5% bonus for homework completion. He explains the material decently and tests are fair.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: A
May 4, 2020
Would take again

Cell bio is just a lot of material. I honestly don't know that the professor makes that much of a difference. You really just have to memorize all the slides, and the tests are still going to be very challenging. He just read from the powerpoints for the entire class period, so it got pretty boring, but you need to pay attention to everything!

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Jul 5, 2020
Would take again

You have to come to every class ready to take notes and listen. He talks the entire time and every single word is important. If you have a good grasp on the concepts, you'll be okay. last test (final) is the hardest, but homework is so easy. I studied a week before every test & wrote out my notes again. the tests arent cumulative which helps a lot

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: C
Apr 21, 2021
Would take again

The class sucks. Only grades are tests and extra 5 points if you do all the homework. you get 5 absences. overall terrible. But yoder is one of the best profs I've met. He is curving our final grade bc of the pandemic and our scores being below average. Overall respects his students so much, and takes the blame if all of the test scores are low.

Respected
Graded by few things
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BSC300
Apr 26, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Probably the worst professor for this class. Everyone basically failed the class. Would NEVER recommend taking this professor. 4 exams in the grade book and no extra credit. Very inefficient at responding to emails and you can study differently for every exam and you probably still wont pass. good luck.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
4.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Apr 28, 2021
Would take again

Cell bio is a really difficult class but Dr. Yoder is definitely the best choice for professor. Dr. Yoder is super knowledgeable and was understanding during the pandemic but he lectures really fast. There's a ton of info to learn so you basically need to start prepping for the exam the day you start lectures for it and study every day.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Aug 26, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Yoder was an amazing professor, not sure why he had such low ratings. His final grade came from and average of 5 exams. His exams were difficult but came from lecture notes. All of the HW was graded for extra credit for 50 points, which ended up being a full letter grade worth of points. Would definitely take him again!

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Sep 1, 2022
Would take again

Cell Bio is always going to be a class where your grade is reliant on how much work you put in. Taking it during the summer means that you'll be spending multiple hours a day studying/in lecture. Dr. Yoder was super accommodating and was lenient with the grading. He's passionate about the material and he did a good job of making things interesting,

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Sep 13, 2022
Would take again

Yoder is by far the best choice for cell bio. He explains things well, has review sessions, stays after class to answer questions, and gives a TON of extra credit. Literally got 10 points added onto my final grade for doing the HW. Took me from an A- to an A+. He is also a very nice guy. You can tell he cares about his students and what he teaches.

EXTRA CREDIT
Caring
Lecture heavy
5.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 15, 2023
Would take again

Dr. Yoder is a great lecturer. He is definitely the best option for Cell Bio. However, this class is most definitely the hardest class material wise that you will take as a bio major. Be prepared to drink from a fire house. Yoder is great though.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
2.0
5.0
BSC300
Apr 21, 2023

STAY AWAY! I, personally, didn't like his teaching style AT ALL. I think I would make an A in his course, after I've taken this course with Dr. Jenny. His exams are very specific and he doesn't teach the material as well as other professors. I couldn't find a way to connect with what he expected from his students.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Apr 22, 2023
Would take again

I am now in medical school and I use material Dr.Yoder taught me every. single. day. His course was the single most helpful course for medical school that I took at Alabama. It is a lot of material; go to every lecture in person, do the assignments, and study by reviewing two weeks before the exam.Dr.Yoder's teaching style made me excited to learn.

4.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: B-
Apr 30, 2023
Would take again

cell biology is a really hard class. He seems very passionate about the subject. He goes fairly fast through lectures, but he bolds the stuff you really need to know. Tests have lots of questions (60+) and they are quite specific. i like him, but again, hard class. its not whether or not the profs for this are good, but what teaching style u like

Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: B
May 4, 2023
Would take again

Tough class, good teacher. His lectures are VERY fast. Cell bio has so much material- it's like trying to drink from a firehose. Tests make up 90% of the grade with little post-lecture practice. I recommend going to office hours any time you have the chance. He answers any question succinctly and without judgment.

Respected
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: B
May 9, 2023
Would take again

Dr. Yoder is the absolute best professor at UA! I would recommend him to any and everyone. Stay on top of material and do well on exams bc they are 90% of the class. He is SOOOOO caring and really cares for you! If you don't read any other part of this, go to office hours and get to know him! It will help you! 1000/10 prof!

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
May 23, 2023
Would take again

Professor Yoder is a very good professor. He understands that Cell Bio is a hard class and gives a lot of extra credit. His lectures are pretty clear but they can be long and dense. Tests are completely based off lectures. You can tell he's passionate about what he teaches and he honestly just has good dad vibes.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
BSC300
Jun 28, 2023
Would take again

I love Dr. Yoder! Cell biology is such a difficult class, and is even denser over the summer, but Dr. Yoder tried his best to make lectures interesting and is extremely passionate about the subject. He is very respectable and is not judgmental at all towards his students, no matter the question.

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A
Jul 2, 2023
Would take again

Amazing lecturer and super kind/helpful in general!! He has a rare gift of being able to explain complex concepts simply- especially during office hours. The difficulty of this class arises from pure density. To succeed in the summer you need to digest and regurgitate information from 300+ slides weekly.

Amazing lectures
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Apr 18, 2024
Would take again

Prof. Yoder is an excellent teacher. This class has a ton of material, but he does a great job making sure you know what you need to. He's always willing to answer questions and help you if you need it. He also gives a lot of extra credit via the homework, which is graded on completion.

EXTRA CREDIT
Caring
Test heavy
2.0
3.0
BSC300
Grade: A
May 3, 2024

Dr. Yoder is a good professor and is passionate about cell. However, lectures felt long-winded. A lot of my studying for the course was organizing the information in a way that made sense for me, which took a lot of time. I know the course is a lot of material, but something didn't click for me. Homework adds 10% to final grade which is nice.

Get ready to read
Accessible outside class
2.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: B
Jul 16, 2024

He can be condescending to the class, though he is kinder to you if you go to office hours. His lectures are painstakingly verbose. He adds a ton of unnecessary adverbs & adjectives, and he chooses the most unnatural syntax possible in his writing. His lecture slides are just textbook pages with bullet points before each sentence. Good luck, y'all

Lecture heavy
5.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: A+
Sep 13, 2024
Would take again

I took his summer course, so the workload is exactly what most people tell you- like drinking from a firehose. No matter what you think, you will need to put in a lot of effort to make an A in this class. Nonetheless, Dr. Yoder prepares you well. I regret skipping class and not going to office hours only because of how good of a professor he was.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
BSC300
Grade: B+
Jan 20, 2025
Would take again

Prof. Yoder's lectures can be verbose, but his passion for cell biology shines through. Staying on top of the dense material and using tools like unstuck study for study prep can really help. He's caring and eager to help in office hours.

3.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 18, 2025

It was fun to listen to him lecture. He's a good guy and you can tell he cares about the material. He makes his own test questions and you have to read them 6 times before you can even understand what he's asking. This course is gonna be hard no matter who you take but take McGinn if you can, Yoder can be a little rude at times.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: C
Apr 19, 2025
Would take again

This course is extremely hard, but Yoder is an amazing lecturer. He goes very fast and covers a lot of material. He does not use his recitation for exams so do not take this with Orgo 2, your exams will line up on the same day and life will suck.

Respected
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: B
Jun 5, 2025

I would not take his class. He promised a curve right before the drop date to convice students not to drop the class because the average grade was a 63. He then did not curve at the end of the year.

Tough grader
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BSC300
Grade: C+
Jun 26, 2025

Do not take. Average grade was horrible and he promised a h

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
2.0
BSC301
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2025
Would take again

He definitely cares more about your learning experience than a grade for cell bio lab. Read the pre-labs, take an interest in the process, and this class will be good. Also has the most goated TA of all time.

Participation matters
Beware of pop quizzes
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

30%

Textbook Required

27%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 60 grades
Most common grades:
A (19)
A+ (12)
B (8)
Grade Distribution
A(31)B(11)C(11)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(5)
Based on 62 reported grades
A: 19
A+: 12
B: 8
C: 8
Common Tags
TEST HEAVY (18)
Test heavy (17)
EXTRA CREDIT (13)
Lecture heavy (13)
LECTURE HEAVY (11)
Get ready to read (10)
Respected (8)
Tough Grader (7)
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