3.0

Marceau Ratard

Biology - Delgado Community College (ALL)

3.0
Quality
3.5
Difficulty
49%
Would Retake
122
Reviews
3.0
Quality
3.5
Difficulty
2.9
Helpful
3.1
Clarity

49%

Would Retake

122

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

34

4

23

3

18

2

18

1

29

What Students Say

I took Ratard for Biology II Lecture Online

BIOL142I - 3.0 rating

Ratard is one of the best professors I have had

BIOL211 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

53%

Textbook Required

59%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B-

95% confidence
Based on 48 grades
Most common grades:
A (11)
B (10)
B+ (5)
Grade Distribution
A(13)B(11)C(8)D(10)F(2)A-/B+(6)
Based on 56 reported grades
A: 11
B: 10
B+: 5
C: 4
Common Tags
EXTRA CREDIT (20)
Get ready to read (12)
Test heavy (9)
Lecture heavy (8)
Tough grader (8)
Clear grading criteria (7)
Amazing lectures (7)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.25 avg change
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

BIOLO211

5.0

(1)

MICRO

5.0

(1)

MICRO211

4.3

(3)

211

4.0

(6)

BIO143

3.8

(8)
+23 more courses
Difficulty by Course

BIOLOGY

5.0

BIOGEN

5.0

BIO144

5.0

BIOL101

5.0

BIOLOGY21421

5.0

Reviews (122)
1.0
5.0
BIOLOGY
Dec 17, 2005

Run as fast as you can away from his class.

3.0
4.0
BIOL141
Feb 5, 2005

His lecture is clear but his test hard.

1.0
4.0
BIO143
Mar 22, 2006

im in his lab now and i think he is very simple on the notes which is fine but he doesnt explain much. the. i think the tests arent really clear..but study ALL of the notes bc the will all DEF. be on the test

5.0
3.0
BIO141
Mar 24, 2006

I think he's a great teacher. Very straight foward, what's in notes is on test. Need to study.

4.0
4.0
BIOL143
Apr 3, 2006

hes really not that bad...you just have to study

1.0
5.0
BIOLOGY
May 31, 2006

HE THINK HE BETTER THAN EVERYBODY. HE DON'T KNOW HOW TO TALK TO PEOPLE.

5.0
1.0
BIOL141
Mar 21, 2007

he is a great teacher...wish he would teach every biology class i have to take...his notes are on the test...nothing else

3.0
5.0
BIOGEN
May 9, 2007

Mr. Ratard is not a "people person." He simply dictates notes in all of his classes. Your hands hurt at the end. If you miss one class, you will miss a lot of info. I didn't understand the subject, but strictly studied the notes and made an A. Don't worry about understanding, just memorize the notes for the tests.

3.0
4.0
BIOL211
Jul 16, 2007

Taking an online course with him. Doesn't always return email. Quizzes are open book and really hard. I do like the class, but it is the hardest I've taken. I do have an A average so far.

1.0
5.0
BIO141
Aug 27, 2007

He speaks in his Dr./biology language that makes it hard for us regular students to understand. He goes on with his lectures as if everyone is supposed to know exactly what he means w/out explaining further.he just moves right along VERY QUICKLY as if he has better things to do besides be a thorough instructor.i would not recommend him to anyone

3.0
5.0
BIOL143
Aug 1, 2007

He is a doctor and doctor's challenge your brain. I do not recommend him if you are not that good in science. He doesn't care if the studen pass his class, all he care is his lecture and finish the class. He doesn't help you to pass his subject. His test are hard. Run away from him!!!!

4.0
3.0
BIOL143
Oct 22, 2007

just study ALL of his class notes, word for word, and you'll be alright.

2.0
5.0
BIOL141
Dec 12, 2007

Do not advise taking on online class with this instructor. He gives you notes that have alot of errors. He has his own language that everyday students dont understand. Emails....takes forever to respond. Test grades.....maybe next week. Hardest class I have ever taken. The class test averages were always in the 50's. I some how would make a 70 or h

2.0
4.0
BIOL241
Jul 2, 2008

Took online class. Notes were unclear. Hard to get a response to e-mails. Answers usually short and almost seem rude. Doesn't show quizes after grading. Provides no study outline. Be prepared to learn A LOT of notes.

1.0
5.0
BIO144
Jul 15, 2008

Read other comments!!! he's a bad teacher, speaks as if u know the information all ready!! do not expl anything. or will give make up work!!

2.0
5.0
BIO141
Jan 2, 2009

he is the worst teacher in the world. not helpful at all. Doesn't give extra credit if you are struggling. Tests are hard. his notes are useless with all the mistakes in them. not worth your time

4.0
5.0
BIO141
Jan 19, 2009

He expects you to come to class prepared which means that you should understand what all of the words mean BEFORE you come to class. His job is to teach biology, not to make up for your lack of prior education. You are in college to learn so pay attention, read, and study the material that is given by your professor.

5.0
2.0
BIOL141
Feb 16, 2009

Very straight forward. The class (like any other) requires basic skills such as note taking and studying. He makes himself VERY available to anyone who needs help. Study the notes and you'll do great. I was leery because of the comments here, but think they were posted by people who don't show up, don't take good notes, or don't ask for help.

3.0
5.0
BIOL101
Jul 5, 2009

Class is definitely mandatory! You can't miss one if you can help it. He is a very good teacher I won't say he's not he knows his****. It's his test they suck! I would study for hours for them and still make a F. If you have him as a teacher and are struggling he will just tell you to get with a student. So thats the only advice I can give.

5.0
1.0
BIO141
Apr 18, 2009

dr.ratard is an extremely good professor.he offers help you just have to ask.i would recommend him to anyone.study his notes and youll def pass his class!

5.0
3.0
BIO113
Oct 25, 2009

I find this teacher helpful and caring of his students. He is a good teacher.

2.0
5.0
BIOL210
Dec 2, 2009

Please take these commments on here seriously. I didn't and took him anyway and wasted my time.

5.0
2.0
MICRO211
Aug 9, 2010

I took him in the summer and he was really good! I would take him again for another course if he taught it.

2.0
5.0
BIOL211
Sep 26, 2010

Do not take an online class from him!

5.0
1.0
BIO143
Oct 16, 2010

I don't understand how people are failing his class. He's a very good teacher and also funny, too. I would recommend this teacher.

5.0
1.0
BIOL143
Jul 13, 2011

Awesome teacher. Take down all the notes and study them for the quizzes and tests and you'll make an A. I have an A here and I use to have a D at UNO.

4.0
2.0
BIOL143
Jul 23, 2011

I take him for the lab and he is a straight forward teacher and i enjoy his sense of humor.

2.0
5.0
BIOL141
Aug 20, 2011

Do NOT take him for an online class! He has an attitude every time you ask a question, & made us come take our final on campus @ 9pm!!!!

5.0
1.0
BIO141
Aug 23, 2011

Young,funny,down to earth.Always replied to my emails & was very helpful to me.I was in online class but wasn't doing well so in lab I asked him if I could attend the actual person-to-person lecture & he said absolutely.Don't need book though his online notes are straight from notes he gives in class.Yes the tests were late,but no biggie!!

5.0
2.0
BIO143
Sep 27, 2011

He is an awesome teacher. Biology is only difficult if you do not study. I made an A in his bio lab class

5.0
1.0
BIOLO211
Nov 14, 2011

Awesome class, made everything so interesting. His humor just added to the fun environment. Would definitely recommend this teacher for in class. As for online I have no idea.

1.0
3.0
BIOL1913
Dec 2, 2011

I took his API class online. He was embarrassingly unprepared. He insisted on giving the class a comprehensive exam over all 5 labs(covering the entire book), but only taught 2 of the 5 labs! He never responds to emails, skips assignments, never gives back your work with corrections, and the list goes on and on. Pity on his students!

4.0
1.0
BIOL141
Dec 8, 2011

He is a pretty decent teacher. He's a little rough around the edges but covers things in enough detail for an intro survey and will take time to answer questions. I'd take another course by him.

4.0
2.0
BIOL141
Jan 8, 2012

Reading this I was nervous at first, I took his online course and I must say that the coursework was very easy and an easy A as long as it was turned in on time. All tests were multiple choice and as long as you studied the notes, you are fine! I would definitely recommend him and his online class. The only downfall was that for every test you were required to show up on campus.

5.0
1.0
BIOL143
May 2, 2012

Professor Ratard is pretty cool. I would recommend him for a lab teacher. He makes it so we understand everything. He's very helpful. I passed this class with a B-, but it's better than a C. If you like a teacher who writes on the board, he's the teacher for you.

5.0
2.0
BIO143
May 5, 2012

Everyone in my class loves him. Some students do well on the tests and some do not do so well. Take notes!!!Also take his lab class if available.Good Luck!

5.0
1.0
BIO143
May 31, 2012

i love him. he is so helpful and his notes are the best. hes cool and smart. great experience in his class. i wish he'd teacher a&p, i would so take him again.

5.0
2.0
BIOL211
Jun 5, 2012

He is the best! Knows his stuff & hasa great sense of humor. I missed classes due to bad illness & he worked with me to make sure I kept up. He's helpful,answers questions in a clear manner, answers emails,is genuinely interested in his students, & welcomes feedback. Most importantly, he is a great teacher, you will learn from him, and enjoy it!

2.0
4.0
BIOL141
Dec 29, 2012

He may have been my least favorite teacher in my college career! He Never responds to emails! I took his Biol 141 class online and during break there were glitches with the software, he refused to allow makeups. He does not give study guides, and did not warn us that the final would be accumulative.

4.0
4.0
BIOL210
Apr 10, 2013

In his online micro class. His notes are good, but there are a lot of grammatical errors. HW's require using the text. Don't rely on the notes. Tests are on the harder side. Use his notes, but definitely make your own from the textbook. Sometimes asks questions from prior chapters. Every test he gives a crossword puzzle as bonus, which is great.

5.0
1.0
MICRO211
May 17, 2013

awesome!!!!!!! very easy just study the notes do all homework and the cw for extra credit.

3.0
3.0
BIO211
Jun 14, 2013

Enjoying him so far but he is rather vague in his testing methods. His notes are ok but not the best I would rely on the book . He knows the information but the students do not this is why we are in there. I have not taken a regular exam in this Summer session but if it's anything like the quiz you better study with a Science person.

4.0
4.0
BIO211
Jul 31, 2013

Loveddd this class!!! Dr. Ratard explains things very well. His delivery in class is excellent. I don;t care for the learn smart as "I" don't learn that way! I am an auditory learner . All in all I enjoyed the laughs in class & he is a very intelligent guy as well as "down to earth" if you need help he will explain things! he gets 5 STARS !!!!

4.0
3.0
BIOL141
Jul 16, 2013

Notes notes notes. Do the online homework, and study the notes. Explains things well in the notes whereas the online HW and text book will throw you all over. Well, for his tests, STUDY HIS NOTES!

3.0
3.0
BIOL141
Aug 3, 2013

I took the online course so not much interaction. I used Khan academy a lot because there was no real lecture Very responsive to emails. Tests were fair with a few tricky multiples that were confusing. Tests by his notes mostly so paying attention to what he is highlighting will help.

4.0
3.0
BIO210
Aug 7, 2013

I took the online course. I studied the notes and I didn't feel like it was quite enough for the tests. I probably should of studied the powerpoints and book but I didn't have time due to A&P. Scrapped by with a B. His notes have errors, but I loved his crossword bonus puzzles. They really helped on the tests.

1.0
3.0
BIO101LAB
Nov 1, 2013

Terrible teacher. No interest in the students, poor notes are given, and he does a terrible job at explaining things. I definitely wouldn't recommend anyone to take him.

4.0
3.0
BIOL143
Nov 5, 2013

AWESOME! Loved his class, precise, on topic, straight to the point! He made the class easy and kinda fun! Took his gen. bio lab and got an A+. I will be taking him for microbiology!

1.0
5.0
BIOLAB143
Dec 3, 2013

THIS CLASS RIGHT HERE IF YOU TAKE HIM THIS IS THE WORST TEACHER TO HAVE, HE DOESNT HELP YU ALL HE DO IS GIVES NOTE , RUSH THROGH EVERYTHING DONT EVENSEE IF YOU NEED HELP OR EVEN UNDERSTAND , I RATHER FAIL THEN STRUGGLE TO DEATH, I WITHDRAWED HIS CLASS HE'S NOT WORTH THE INSTRUCTOR TITLE

2.0
5.0
BIO143101
Dec 3, 2013

Worst biology teacher in my life! And biology happens to be my favorite subject, he is not helpful at all, and he never have time to go over anything! Such a waist of a semester I know I didn't pass...

3.0
4.0
MICRO211
Dec 12, 2013

His notes are very simple but his test are so hard!! He writes all of his notes on the board. MAKE SURE you study his notes everyday if you make an A.

1.0
3.0
BIO142
Dec 19, 2013

Gave no homework, didn't respond to emails, things on the quizzes weren't covered in his notes, left no contact number, no lectures just notes, tests were very hard considering the material wasn't, paid to take this class online and did not receive what I should have from an online teacher. Don't understand how he's still teaching!

2.0
2.0
BIO142
Dec 19, 2013

Worst professor Ive ever had. Didn't provide a contact phone # only an email address which he NEVER responded to. Other students had the same problem. Did not make himself accessible to his online students what so ever. Questions on quizzes were not covered in any of his notes or the chapter in the book. I did not graduate bc of his lack of help.

1.0
5.0
BIOL143
Mar 17, 2014

NOT A GOOD TEACHER. WRITES NOTES ON THE BOARD VERY FAST THEN TAKES IT OFF. HAND WRITING IS HORRIBLE. MOVES TOO FAST SUPPOSED TO BE A ONCE A WEEK MEET FOR 3 HOURS ONLY IN THERE 1 HOUR MOVES EXTREMELY FAST FOR JUST A LAB. TRIED DIFFERENT METHODS OF LEARNING THE MATERIAL YOUTUBE, RECORDING HIS LECTURE JUST NOT ENOUGH. HAD TO DROP.

4.0
3.0
BIOL211
May 15, 2014

I enjoyed this class. He was always making the class laugh. He was also very clear in what he wanted you to know. Tests were pretty easy. HATED the Connect homework, but other than that I enjoyed the class. Over all he was a decent teacher, he definitely needs to work on his handwriting or invest in making some power points haha!

1.0
5.0
BIOLOGY21421
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Jun 22, 2014

He is very hard to understand, he makes a lot of grammatical errors.The quizzes are hard he doesn't refer to the book I think he relies on what's in his head when he was in his doctoral class.

1.0
5.0
BIOL142I
Grade: B
Jun 22, 2014

This guy is a AWFUL professor. You have to buy the book and he does make notes for you to use so at first your thinking its not so bad, well don't expect to get any information from his quizzes or homework off the notes he makes OR the book. So basically since you know that you will be screwed for the test. The tests you have to use a webcam for!!!

5.0
1.0
143
Sep 30, 2014

I like to attend his labs, everything is clair, he explains diffucult stuff with good examples

1.0
5.0
143
Grade: D
Nov 5, 2014

Professor Ratard is not a good teacher at all. You will be a 3-hour lab class for only one hour. He rushes through material and if you ask him specifically what's on the test he will say all of this. I stuck it out but still did not pass. I went to take course with a different instructor and passed with a B. He's not approachable or helpful at all

5.0
1.0
BIOL211
Nov 22, 2014

Great professor. I took his online class. Just study his notes and you will be fine. Tests come straight from his notes. Gives crosword bonus which helps on tests. Also really nice guy. I had a family emergency and missed a test. He had no problems with me making it up. def recommend him. Only thing is he doesn't respond quickly to emails.

2.0
5.0
141
Dec 7, 2014

Dude is a horrible professor. I have pulled multiple all nighters for his lecture class tests but yet still barely pass. He rushes through everything. Will give you a page of notes when the notes he leaves on BB are 10 to 15 pages long. Honestly have know every single bit of info to pass. other than that he is ok.

5.0
1.0
MICRO
Jan 16, 2015

Great teacher!

5.0
4.0
211
Grade: B+
Jan 9, 2015

Great teacher who wears cool t-shirts and delivers very interesting subject matter. His bonus crossword puzzles can actually increase your letter grade on his tests which are written directly from his notes and power points. I would definitely take his class again!

5.0
2.0
BIOL211
Grade: Rather not say
Jun 26, 2015

Dr. Ratard is one of the best professors I have had! He is very funny and makes class interesting. He explains the material in a manner that can be understood. If you have any questions, he is always willing to answer them. If you attend class, do the homework, and study his lecture notes and power points, you will do just fine!

3.0
4.0
BIO142
May 8, 2015

This is hands down the hardest professor I've ever had. I took him for Biology 142 lecture ONLINE. He provided notes, but a lot of what is on the tests are not in the textbook, notes, or on the homework (Learnsmart Connect). He seems like a really nice guy, but very unorganized. I studied my butt off for every quiztest, and barely passed.

5.0
2.0
BIOL211
Grade: A
Aug 18, 2015

He is amazing! If you enjoy learning, and want a good laugh during each lecture, he's the right teacher for you.

1.0
5.0
BIO142
Grade: D
Nov 27, 2015

Let me clarify DO NOT take this teacher. His quizzes have nothing to do with the book. He will not help you. His test will not let you review your answers once you have selected an answer. Does not show to his own office hours. I am teaching myself and he lacks sufficient materials besides stuff he has cut and pasted. Set up for failure.

3.0
3.0
BIOL142
Grade: A
Jan 10, 2016

MUST READ IF YOU ARE TAKING ONLINE: Most, if not all of the test material is from the CROSSWORD PUZZLES he assigns for extra credit. Do these, study these, and memorize these. Any other studying you do is lagniappe knowledge as far as getting a good grade in this class is concerned. (After doing the crossword, use the packets he posts)

1.0
5.0
BIO211
May 3, 2016

Do not take this guy online. He disappears for the entire semester after he puts his syllabus on Canvas. Don't expect any responses to emails. Last minute exam scheduling makes it hard for students to get to city park to take the tests. And yes you must go to CP for first and last tests. Everything else is Connect and Respondus.

4.0
3.0
BIO141
Grade: A
May 18, 2016

Online course- study the notes provided, learn them and you'll be fine. Prompt response when I emailed or called him for clarification on required material. I would take his class again.

3.0
3.0
BIOL142I
Grade: A
May 24, 2016

I took Ratard for Biology II Lecture Online. There were only 4 Tests and a Final. The tests need to be taken in front of a camera on your laptop. HUGE TIP: MOST OF THE TEST INFO IS FROM THE CROSSWORD EXTRA CREDIT. DO THEM. ALSO STUDY HIS NOTES AND YOU WILL BE OK. DON'T WORRY ABOUT MEMORIZING THE WHOLE TEXTBOOK, YOU WILL FAIL. I GOT AN A.

1.0
5.0
BIOL143
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Sep 8, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Ratard is an awful professor. He walked into class 20 minutes late, gave a quiz, and picked it up in 5 minutes. His lectures are very disorganized. Avoid him if possible.

4.0
3.0
BIO142
Grade: B+
Nov 8, 2016
Would take again

Mr. Ratard is a great teacher. His lectures consist of him reading power points but he gets in detail and explains everything. Sometimes he gets off topic but it just gives the class character. Lots of homework but his extra credit is crossword puzzles that cover a lot of the test material. DO them and you'll be fine.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Amazing lectures
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
4.0
BIO211
Grade: C
Jan 12, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He lecture on 4 chapters then give a test on maybe 1 chapter. He makes you over study to put questions on test from the 1st chapter he reviewed. Homework is RIDICULOUS he think you are only taking his class.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
BIO142
Grade: B
Jul 29, 2017
Would take again

As long as your do the crossword puzzles (worth bonus points) and study them you should be fine. It's not an easy A but it's not a hard class as long as you put in the time to do the crossword puzzles.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
5.0
BIO144
Grade: B-
Jul 21, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I took him online, his test are very difficult unless your spending multiple hours a week studying. The homework is nearly impossible even google can't answer these questions. I Graduated high school with GT/Honors, and I can say he's by far the most difficult professor I've taken in college. Wouldn't recommend unless you don't care about your GPA.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
BIO210
Grade: A
Jan 12, 2018
Would take again

This gentleman is awesome; easy to understand, very kind and accessible; highly recommended.

5.0
3.0
BIOL143
Grade: A
May 4, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Ratard was an amazing professor. His lectures are awesome and interesting and he only makes you know what you REALLY need to know. As long as you are grasping what's going on in class you will get an A in the class. He's funny and will help you out if you need some extra help. Down to earth guy and I will be taking him for Microbiology

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
BIO211
Grade: B
May 9, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Ratards class is awesome! I have taken two of his classes online and enjoyed both. As long as you do the crossword puzzles and study them then you should be fine. The online class also had Connect homework and quizzes that really helps with your grade. I highly recommend taking his class.

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
5.0
BIO210
Grade: C+
May 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Micro is a tough class in general, but he DID NOT IN ANY WAY try to make it easier for us. There's no homework or assignments to help boost your grade up. He doesn't answer emails or offer help. He doesn't post lectures. You're given big packets on the 4 chapters you're tested on every 2 weeks and that's it. Extra credit is no help AT ALL. Tragic.

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
3.0
BIO210
Grade: B+
May 16, 2018
Would take again

Dr Ratard is a very good professor. Took him for General BIO lab ever since loved him. He is very through in his lectures, gives bonus points for every test. Do all the Wiley assignments for grades and for the test just pay attention to what he says in class, IS BETTER IF YOU DO NOT SKIP CLASSES. Everything he points out in class will be in test!

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
BIO143
Jul 24, 2018
Would take again

I took him for bio lab and micro. He makes class fun as much as possible. You have to study for his class!!!! He works with you if you have anything going on. His office hours are great!

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
BIOLAB143
Grade: B
Aug 14, 2018
Would take again

I took him for general bio and it was my first class when I transferred from a different school. He was so laid back, joked in class, and gave us the exact notes we needed. The quizzes are a little confusing but he is very good with explaining information and hes good about making up quizzes. I studied right before class and I ended up with a B.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
4.0
BIO143
Grade: A-
Nov 27, 2018
Would take again

Ratard is great, awesome lectures, makes class really enjoyable. Respect the class, its not easy, show up, take notes, study your notes, do the extra credit and homework and youll be fine. His test are exactly on the notes he gives, no more no less, its just that simple

Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
3.0
BIOL211
Grade: A
Nov 30, 2018
Would take again

Read the book, study his guides, do his extra credit.

Hilarious
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
BIOL211
Grade: C+
Dec 11, 2018
Wouldn't take again

His class online is difficult! There are a TON of homework assignments which average about 50 questions. I got A's on all the homework assignments and quizzes and I had a hard time passing the test. We were able to earn 4 extra credit points on each test, but even then my scores weren't great! The test are done on the lockdown browser or ProctorU.

Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
5.0
BIOL210
Dec 12, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Very challenging tests, difficult to narrow the content- he does provide extra credit crossword puzzles worth 4pts.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
3.0
BIO211
Grade: B
May 11, 2019
Would take again

Took this class online and he was mostly hands off. All notes, were uploaded at the beginning of the semester and that's it. No online lecture components to help. You're basically on your own with his notes and your textbook. Have heard great things about him and his lectures and wish I took the class in person.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
1.0
3.0
BIO113
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Apr 23, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Please do not waste your time and take this man !!

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
BIO211
Grade: D+
Dec 12, 2019
Wouldn't take again

He does not teach if you don't have questions in class you are free to go home. I don't recommend.

1.0
4.0
BIO143
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 2, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Worst Professor I've taken so far!!! His lectures are good and his sense of humor is funny. All your notes come from your lab manual/ what he writes&says in class. Tests are really confusing when you're going through the rotation. Only gives 7 quizzes & 3 tests. If your learning style is a note taking guide from the professor, DON'T TAKE HIM!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
BIO142
Grade: F
Dec 31, 2020
Would take again

Dr. Ratard is an amazing teacher that just wants all his students to pass. He posts videos of the lectures and gives bonus puzzles for all the exams. My grade was only bad because I found out I didn't need the class and just stopped doing work since I thought I dropped it but I did not. :

Accessible outside class
Lecture heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
BIO210
May 7, 2021
Would take again

If you are taking him online read read read... Do your bonus puzzles for extra points on the test.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
5.0
3.0
211
Mar 11, 2022
Would take again

He is laid back, easy going, professional, thorough, and helpful. I enjoyed his online class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
5.0
2.0
211
May 2, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Ratard is awesome! His lectures are very understanding. He gives bonus puzzles to do for 4 extra points on the exams, including the final! I truly enjoyed the class and would 100% take him again in a heartbeat.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
4.0
4.0
BIOL211
Grade: B
Jun 4, 2022
Would take again

I took Microbiology for Maymester (poor decision on my part) but I somehow pulled it off with a B. I work full time and have a kid in extracurricular activities- I still pulled off a B. Also went on little sleep for 2 weeks. Lectures are good info that makes sense. DO THE EXTRA CREDIT PUZZLES. Study those too.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
4.0
BIO142
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 4, 2022

Lectures gloss over complex topics. Tests focus on obscure parts of the material not covered in lectures/text and use logic games instead of probing knowledge. 50 questions each test, no going back to review questions. Bonus crossword puzzles often contain confusing errors. Professor doesn't respond promptly to emails and sometimes not at all.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO142
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 28, 2022

He introduces new terms never covered for the first time on tests and asks about esoteric topics only briefly or never covered while skipping major concepts. The bonus crosswords have confusing spacing and spelling errors, and the homework questions/quizzes from textbook have little to do with tests. Lazy professor who does little actual teaching.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
4.0
4.0
BIO142
Grade: B+
Dec 2, 2022
Would take again

Professor Ratard has a very "hands off" teaching approach. The assignments are due on a monthly basis. And you have an entire month to complete them. Which is great if you know how to manage your time... If you have trouble with time management then this class will be challenging for you. He has excellent lectures and gives plenty of extra credit.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
BIO141
Grade: A+
Aug 2, 2023
Would take again

A really great professor I took him for biology and microbiology. I've never been good at science and hadn't been to school for years but did great in his classes thanks to his great instruction. He makes it very clear whats on tests - watch lectures and do extra credit puzzles and you'll do great.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Caring
4.0
4.0
BIOL211
Grade: B
Nov 21, 2023
Would take again

Loved how he taught the online class, he was very enthusiastic and funny.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Respected
2.0
5.0
BIO142
Grade: D+
Nov 28, 2023

The lectures are fine and he is somewhat funny but the tests focus on topics covered for maybe a minute or so in the lecture. There is also no real indication of what will be on the tests and no study guides, so be prepared to try and retain every piece of information from the lectures.

1.0
5.0
BIOL211
Grade: C+
Dec 17, 2023

The homework is A LOT! it takes hours to finish. I asked him how to better prepare for his test, he replied "the test come from the notes." the notes are 8+ pages per chapter and 4 chapters per test, + the powerpoints. the crosswords are only 4 points and they are excessive. The tests are taken on camera which is also hard to do with a toddler!!

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
4.0
3.0
211
Grade: A
Feb 21, 2024
Would take again

im gonna be honest. u are either gonna love him or hate him. his classes are a joy to be a part of. he makes the topic really interesting and fun. even his tests are sorta fun..... but beware if you are not a good studier or note taker then this class will not be for you. 10/10 guy though.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
BIO142
Grade: A
May 15, 2024

Great lecturer who is very knowledgeable and funny. His tests tend to go beyond the lecture material,though. Too many gotcha questions that focus on minutia. No returning to previously answered questions. Bonus puzzle spacing isn't accurate. Hmwrk quizzes are tedious. Not good with answering emails and seems he'd rather ignore his online students.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
141
Grade: C+
Aug 5, 2024

the lectures were easy to understand but the tests were difficult, they would go more in depth than he would teach.

5.0
2.0
BIO141
Grade: A+
Sep 1, 2024
Would take again

Here is the most accurate review you will read. I am a decent student (typically B in science classes). This is an easy class; straight-forward. No difficult assignments--barely any assignments. This is the best I've ever done in a science class and the most I've learned.

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Online Savvy
2.0
5.0
211
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 10, 2024

If you're a full time student, you do NOT want this class. You're going to have to read the entire book, study, 15 quizzes, 15 homeworks, 5 tests, 4 puzzles (puzzles are for extra credit, DO THEM!) He's going to test you on the random sentence in the book not on the study guide. MANY gotcha questions. Test your ability to hold onto sanity.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
BIO142
Grade: B+
Oct 25, 2024

he's a straight forward teacher but I am a A student who barely got a B. The test were based off powerpoint slides but they were questions that you had to really comprehend rather remembering what was in the slides. The most difficult test for me was when you get to the chapter on vaccinations and drugs. There was extra credit puzzles that helped.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
141
Grade: D-
Dec 11, 2024

He wasn't the absolute worst, however I feel like he would just stand and write notes the whole time, not giving students a chance to really understand/retain information. Tried to study a good amount and still failed every single test. seems like a really cool guy, just didn't like him professor wise. too nonchalant

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
BIO142
Grade: B
Jan 12, 2025

Professor Ratard's lectures are engaging, but his tests go beyond the material covered. Bonus puzzles have errors, and he can be unresponsive to emails. unstuckstudy and regular studying are helpful for this class.

2.0
4.0
BIO143101
Grade: C
Feb 25, 2025

He is unresponsive to emails, his lectures are decent but his tests will make you cry and they go beyond the material.

Tough grader
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
141
Grade: F
Mar 31, 2025

Don't take him.Rude.Doesnt answer.I told the science dept about him.They told me to study more.I went to go see him and he told me these things happen.I literally started crying bc I was so close to a D.Did bonus crosswords.He doesn't check them.I guess he only wants to see u did them.7 other people in class told me they were failing too.

Test heavy
5.0
2.0
141
Grade: C
May 10, 2025
Would take again

If it's your first time ever opening a biology book (like me) you'll pass just by completing the smartbook and quiz assignments. The extra credit turned my F into a C. He isn't a tough grader, you just have to do your part!

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
BIO141
Grade: B
Apr 22, 2025

Terrible, no feedback given at all. Lectures are decent but do not cover all of the material on the tests. No guidance on how to succeed in this class is given. You are basically on your own and the tests feel cruel. Confusing typos in the provided notes. I really could have enjoyed this class with a better teacher but it was a nightmare.

1.0
5.0
BIO142
Grade: D-
Dec 2, 2025

Retaking this class for a second time and I somehow did worse than I did at my former university (had a C+). He isn't clear on what to focus on for the tests. A LOT of typos in notes and assignments. Horrible communication! He thinks it's a good idea to only grade test but still gives us many assignments. Hard subject but he makes it way harder

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
BIO141
Grade: D+
Dec 3, 2025

I would not recommend him for bio 141. He teaches from his PowerPoints and it's hard to study for his class. He doesn't have notes and it's hard to get good advice about how to study for his class. The mcgrawhills aren't worth any points and neither of the bonus puzzles. His class was definitely hard to study for.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
BIO211
Grade: A
Dec 4, 2025
Would take again

In the beginning I felt he had a lot going on with the smart books, quizzes, & test; but then i got the hang of it. The smart books & their quizzes are pointless for studying, but the puzzles, YouTube videos, and given notes are used to study for the test, he makes his test all multiple choice & if you study your puzzles they'll be super easy

1.0
5.0
141
Grade: C
Dec 4, 2025

Pretty much have to teach your self as he just reads off slides. Did horrible on the first 2 test but after teaching my self i did better. When you ask him what to study he just says notes online. Would not recommend

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
3.0
211
Grade: A
Dec 12, 2025
Would take again

Fine at best- he's a nice guy and does offer easy crossword bonus puzzles but the lectures are long. Test 1 is def the hardest. The final is pretty easy. Getting in touch with him outside of class is very difficult.

Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
141
Grade: D
Dec 12, 2025

If you take this class you are setting yourself up for failure. his test are insane and not like the study notes at all. he has typos on the tests, study guides, bonus puzzles, ect. you have multiple smart book and quiz assignments that BARELY do anything for your grade and he puts them in at the end of the semester. First class i havnt passed.

5.0
3.0
BIO211
Grade: B
Dec 16, 2025
Would take again

spunky personality, made it enjoyable , loved the way he reminded us of stuff from gen bio, I was a transfer student from another school and he taught me so much I didn't understand by reflecting back on gen biology and giving tips, puzzles are a plus, very informative instructor, multiple choice test

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

53%

Textbook Required

59%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B-

95% confidence
Based on 48 grades
Most common grades:
A (11)
B (10)
B+ (5)
Grade Distribution
A(13)B(11)C(8)D(10)F(2)A-/B+(6)
Based on 56 reported grades
A: 11
B: 10
B+: 5
C: 4
Common Tags
EXTRA CREDIT (20)
Get ready to read (12)
Test heavy (9)
Lecture heavy (8)
Tough grader (8)
Clear grading criteria (7)
Amazing lectures (7)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (5)
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