The Department of Biology offers the following courses. Courses numbered from 100-499 are open to undergraduates. In general, courses numbered 100-199 are taken in the freshman year, courses numbered 200-299 in the sophomore year, courses 300-399 in the junior year, and courses 400-499 in the senior year. There are, however, some variations in this placement according to curriculum and other factors.
Courses numbered from 500-599 are graduate courses open to qualified seniors from undergraduate credit by permission of the appropriate chairperson and the Graduate Dean.
BIOL 100 - Studying for Success-Biology
This one-credit course is designed to provide science students with time-management and study skills as they make the transition to the college level learning environment. Properly implemented, these methods will provide freshmen with the opportunity to succeed and potentially excel in college science courses. Many of these skills will likely be applicable to other courses. The strategies introduced include: time-management, daily and weekly study plans, methods of reading text, how to effectively study for a test, and test taking strategies. Students will also be introduced to some to the basic concepts in biology.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 105 - Freshman Seminar on Sexual Concerns
Introductory course intended exclusively for freshmen of all majors. The course will include an overview of basic biological concepts related to human sexuality. Major topics of presentation will include information about the male and female reproductive systems, microbiology, immunology, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and a variety of approaches to protect against disease and unwanted pregnancy.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 110 - Human Biology
Overview of biological aspects of human nature. Survey of basic human physiology, reproduction, and development. Introduction to genetics and the record of human evolution provides starting point for discussion of adaptive significance of human intelligence and social organization.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 111 - Introduction to Biology
Introductory course for non-science majors only. Intended to develop an understanding of the operation of biological systems and an acquaintance with basic biological concepts and principles.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 115 - Environmental Biology
Study of basic relationships between the environment and humans. Discussion of constraints and relationships in nature from points of view of the physical and life sciences and investigation of how people make decisions to utilize the environment as a resource from the viewpoint of the social sciences. Attempts to link natural and social sciences for awareness of multifaceted nature of environmental problems.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 131 - Principles of Biology I
This course will introduce first semester life science majors to the main themes used to study biology. Three main themes that extend throught the curriculum include a detailed investigation of the scientific method, evolutionary theory and the diversity of life. The course will also examine the concepts of ecology and nutrient cycles.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 132 - Principles of Biology I Laboratory
Principles of Biology I laboratory is designed to complement the Principles of Biology I lecture course. The lab exercises are designed to expose students to the main themes that are discussed in the lecture portion of the course: the scientific method and the diversity of life.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 133 - Principles of Biology II
The course will provide an introduction to cell biology. Students are expected to learn the basic concepts of cellular chemistry, types of cells, cell division, and the central dogma of molecular biology. Students should also learn how cell biology is related to the fields of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 134 - Principles of Biology II Laboratory
This is the laboratory section for the lecture course. The experiments are designed to introduce students to techniques and procedures for studying cells. Students will perform basic skills and techniques that lead to proficiency for more advanced techniques in later courses. Emphasis is placed on students actually doing the procedures and performing the tasks to generate results.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 226 - Human Anatomy and Physiology
A survey course on human anatomy and physiology, designed for the allied health major. After an introduction to cellular and tissue level microanatomy the course will concentrate on form and functional relationships at the system level (e.g. respiratory, digestive). Laboratory topics will complement the lecture and include dissections, experiments and other hands-on learning opportunities on the operation of the human organism.
4.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 237 - Genetics
The principles of genetic analysis and the nature of the gene. The course will cover Mendelian and molecular genetics. Key concepts covered will include the chromosomal and molecular basis of inheritance and replication, mutation and expression of genetic information.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 238 - Genetics Laboratory
Exercises will focus on the analysis of the inheritance of genes. DNA isolation and manipulation experiments will be performed. Students will perform experiments in classical and molecular genetics.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 243 - Biodiversity
The goal of this course is to develop an expanded knowledge of evolution illustrated through a discussion of biodiversity. Course content deals with organic evolution, Mendelian and population genetics, evolutionary mechanisms, and taxonomy. This course will also provide a survey of life: viruses, bacteria, archaea, protists, fungi, plants, and animals as well as comparative anatomies and physiologies explained within an evolutionary context.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 244 - Biodiversity Laboratory
Laboratory course emphasizing a survey of the diversity of life including protists, plants, and animals. Further development of knowledge regarding hypothesis testing, evolution, use of taxonomic keys and constructing phylogenies.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 250 - Basic Concepts in Biology
Examination of selected areas of general biology for interested lower division major or non-major. Emphasis on developing basic background in such areas as botany, zoology, and the relationships between these fields and human society. Examples of courses offered include Field Natural History and Fungal pathogens. Course may not be used as Biology major elective. Topics are determined by student interests.
1.000 TO 6.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 256 - Introduction to Clinical Science
A course designed to acquaint sophomores with various career opportunities available in medical technology. Educational requirements and professional responsibilities are also discussed. Small group discussions of clinical literature, and a tour of a hospital lab are featured.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 310 - The Human Genome
This course will focus on human genes, their inheritance and the Human Genome Project. The broad subject area of genetics will be covered including studies of genes and genomes in other species to facilitate a better understanding of human genetics.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 330 - General Ecology
Introduction to ecology emphasizing general principles at individual, population, and community levels. Examples of various approaches (observation and experimentation, field and laboratory studies, and modeling and computer simulations) are considered.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 331 - General Ecology Laboratory
Laboratories designed to give a diversity of experience, building upon principles of individual, population, and community ecology. A quantitative approach to the study of ecology is emphasized. Labs include plant and animal studies and field and laboratory experiments, as well as long- and short-term studies.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 333 - Biochemistry
The structure and function of proteins and the regulation of metabolic pathways will be the central concepts presented in the course. Students should gain an understanding of the fundamental principles of the biology of protein molecules. BIOL 335 Genetics recommended as prequisite.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 334 - Biochemistry Laboratory
Introduction to laboratory practice using biochemical techniques to isolate and characterize proteins. Enzyme kinetics and bioinformatics are also covered.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 336 - Mammalian Physiology
An integrative approach to systems physiology. After an initial discussion on mechanisms of cellular regulation of homeostasis, individual physiological systems, e.g. respiratory, cardiovascular, are examined. Organ and system action are related to demonstrate integration of function within the body. Major emphasis will be on normal human functions.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 337 - Mammalian Physiology Lab
A laboratory course designed to complement BIOL 336 Mammalian Physiology. Laboratory exercises examine, through experimentation, the integrative functions of organs and systems within the body. Labs include excitable cell physiology, cardiovascular, excretory and exercise physiology. Wherever possible, human models are utilized.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 338 - Microbiology
The course includes a basic study of microbial taxonomy, morphology, biochemistry, and reproduction. Great emphasis is placed on medical microbiology, infectious diseases, microbial genetic regulation, and the application of microorganisms in recombinant gene technology. Laboratory includes identification of microbes by colonial and microscopic features, biochemical properties, and antibiotic sensitivities. Two lectures, one laboratory.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 340 - Cell and Subcellular Biology
Cell structure and function at cellular and molecular level using animal, plant, and microbial cells to illustrate common and divergent tenets. Physical and chemical organization of cells, analysis of the cell concept, emphasis on biochemical, physiological, and ultrastructural properties. Laboratory exercises dealing with isolation and characterization of cell fractions. Two lectures, one laboratory.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 343 - Conservation
Study of relationships of people with nature; extensive treatment of world and national problems related to use of natural resources. Basic approach is ecological, but impact of economic, sociological, political, and ethical concepts on human ecology examined. Note: Students in any Biology degree program may earn elective credit for only one of BIOL 343, 345 or 360.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 344 - Parasitology
A survey of the more important protozoan and helminth parasites of humans. Special emphasis is given to epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of common parasitic diseases.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 345 - Emerging Infectious Diseases
This course will examine infectious diseases whose incidence in humans has increased within the past two decades. The course will focus on the etiological agents, infectious disease process, epidemiology, and the factors associated with the emergence and reemergence of these infectious diseases.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 360 - AIDS and STDs
Discussion of the many ways AIDS and STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) have affected people and the societies in which they live. The course includes information about human physiology, immune defense mechanisms, and microbiology. Detailed biological discussions focus on the transmission of AIDS and STDs, disease symptoms, treatment, and prevention, as well as information on the historical accounts, global and regional impact, ethical, legal and public policy considerations, economic impact of AIDS and STDs, and the psychosocial impact on the individual, family and community. Note: Students in any Biology degree program may earn elective credit for only one of BIOL 310, 360, or 421.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 397 - Biochemistry Seminar I
Current biochemical research papers are analyzed in a journal club (open discussion) format. This course will help students to develop critical reading skills and underscore how an array of biochemical techniques are applied to address a research problem. Faculty from both biology and chemistry participate in this seminar.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 410 - Tropical Biology
A lecture and field course on the natural history and ecology of the neotropics. Students examine several terrestrial and marine tropical ecosystems, including lowland rain forests, elfin forests, mangrove communities, and coral reefs. Each student completes a field project and journal. One lecture per week during the semester followed by a two-week field experience in Costa Rica. Students are responsible for travel expenses.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 417 - Comparative Animal Physiology
How animals maintain homeostasis in a non-homeostatic world. After a general introduction to mechanisms of cellular regulation and energetics the class will discuss specific physiological systems (respiratory, cardiovascular, osmoregulatory, etc.) and compare the modes and strategies employed by different animal groups in responding to changes in external environment. Particular attention directed to adaptations to marginal habitats, e.g. marine intertidal, deep sea hydrothermal vents, hot desert.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 419 - Genes and Genomes
The course will focus on the study of DNA and genes from the paper by Watson and Crick to the Human Genome Project. The genetic and molecular approaches used to identify genes and the impact of genome study on society and current scientific research will be discussed.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 420 - Population/Community Ecology
Reading and discussion of primary literature relating to population and community ecology. Topics include population growth, life history patterns, competition, plant-animal interactions, and community organization.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 421 - Biological Conservation
An examination of species diversity with an emphasis on human activities which affect these patterns. Major topics will include the effects of land use practices, habitat fragmentation, invasive species and pollution on the current distribution and extinction patterns of plants and animals.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 422 - Physiological Ecology
Reading and discussion of primary literature relating to animal interactions with the environment. Examination of potential effects of specific habitats (e.g. deserts, deep sea) and the physiological responses of various animals to these environmental challenges.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 424 - Aquatic Biology
Classification and biology of major groups of organisms that inhabit freshwater environments, characteristics of aquatic habitats, pollution of aquatic environments, and the role of physical and chemical factors in aquatic ecosystems.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 426 - Current Environmental Topics
The focus of this course is on global environmental issues. The issues examined have been making the news during the last year and at the time the course is taught. Changes in climate, overpopulation, pollution, conservation, development, genetically modified organisms, invasive species, illegal species trade, etc. are some of the ongoing issues that are covered in the course. The format of the course invites participation, discussion and critical thinking.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 427 - Fisheries Science
This course is an overview of Ichthyology, Fisheries Biology, and Fisheries Conservation. Students will be introduced to the taxonomic diversity of fish, fish adaptations, techniques and models used in the study of fish populations, community interactions, and issues concerning fisheries conservation and management. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding Great Lakes fisheries.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 429 - Field Biology
A field-oriented course with emphasis on developing and testing scientific hypotheses. Activities include identification of local flora and fauna, using a wide variety of field techniques, statistical analysis, and writing scientific reports. Some Saturday field trips required.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 431 - Senior Seminar
Reading, discussion, and analysis of current topics of biological significance using original source material from primary biological periodicals. Students prepare and present a seminar based on an extensive review of the available literature.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 435 - Developmental Biology
A study of animal development integrating descriptive, experimental, cellular, and molecular studies of gametogenesis, fertilization, cleavage, gastrulation, induction, and maturation. Labs examine development from an historical perspective including: descriptive, experimental and molecular embryology incorporating hypothesis testing through the use of micromanipulation, cell culture and immunohisto-chemistry. Two lectures, one laboratory.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 436 - Molecular Biology
Students will study the basic principles of molecular biology including DNA replication, transcription, and translation. Specific attention will be given to the molecular interactions between protein, DNA, and RNA molecules. Students should gain an understanding of the role of molecular interactions in the basic processes required for the flow of information in cells.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 437 - Molecular Genetics Laboratory
Basic molecular genetics techniques are taught within a research project in which students isolate, characterize, and sequence a gene. Other experiments include the identification of organisms based on DNA sequences and the typing of human DNA.
2.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 440 - Undergraduate Research
Independent study and research of mutual interest with faculty member in such areas as morphology, physiology, evolution, development, population dynamics, genetics, biochemistry, cell and subcellular biology, microbiology, ecology, behavior and conservation. Course may be repeated; maximum of 12 credits count toward the B.S. degree, only 3 of which may be included in a Biology major. Note: Students may earn Biology elective credit for only one of BIOL 440/1 or 458.
1.000 TO 3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 443 - Plant Physiology
Study of the life processes and responses of plants, including water relations and transport, photosynthesis and general metabolism, mineral and organic nutrition, photoperiodic responses and rhythms, growth and differentiation, and plant relationships with the environment.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 446 - Animal Behavior
Survey on theories and practices in study of animal behavior; emphasis on phylogeny and adaptive significance of behavioral patterns. Research techniques and physiological mechanisms considered in detail.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 447 - Evolution
Consideration of the theoretical framework of evolutionary biology and the mechanisms of evolution. Special topics include microevolution, macroevolution, and coevolution.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 450 - Modern Concepts in Biology
An in-depth examination of selected areas of biology for interested upper-division students. Topics are determined by faculty and student interests and emphasize methods and recent research developments.
1.000 TO 3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 453 - Basic Hematology
Introduction to the study of blood, its cellular components, and various blood diseases. Laboratory exercises include a variety of manual techniques involved with blood cell counts and determinations.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 457 - Biostatistics
A review of statistical tests frequently used in the biological sciences. Emphasis is placed on understanding experimental design and what statistics can and cannot do. Uses of computer statistical packages are also considered.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 458 - Lab Supervision in Biology
A supervisory experience in teaching of the biology department's laboratories under the guidance of a faculty member. Student experiences may include; preparing materials for the lab, and demonstrating procedures and techniques to students. Note: Students may earn Biology elective credit for only one of BIOL 440/1 or 458.
1.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 460 - Recombinant Gene Technology
Basic molecular biology techniques are taught within a research project in which students isolate and characterize and sequence a gene from a DNA library. Other experiments include the identification of organisms based on DNA sequences and typing of human DNA. One lecture, two laboratories.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 461 - Immunology and Serology
Study of the mechanisms of the immune response including cellular basis of immunity and molecular basis of antigen-antibody reactions. Regulation of antibody production and cell-mediated reactivity examined. Current clinical applicability considered in discussion of tumor, transplantation, allergy-related, and autoimmune immunobiology. Several laboratory exercises included involving serological/immunological determinations detecting antigen-antibody interactions. Three lectures.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 465 - Advanced Experimental Biochemistry
State-of-the-art biochemical and molecular techniques are taught within this hands-on, laboratory-based course. Potential topics include the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), oligonucleotide synthesis, DNA/protein sequencing and analysis (BLAST, DNASIS), pulse-field gel electrophoresis, gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, high performance liquid chronatography (HPLC), immunochemistry, and/or other contemporary techniques.
2.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 466 - Current Issues in Developmental Biology
Course focuses on recent developments in the rapidly expanding field of developmental biology. With the advent of the tools available to molecular biologists, the course will study recent advances in the genetic understanding of various aspects of embryological development and regeneration. The course will present a variety of topics including: fertilization, gastrulation, maternal effect genes, pattern formation, and evolutionary aspects of development. Prerequisite: Junior standing in major.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 468 - Biomembranes
The objectives of this course include: identification of different types of membranes based upon composition, morphology and cellular functions, and examination of experiments which have provided understanding of how membranes function in cells and organisms. Topics include membrane composition, electron microscope techniques, membrane transport, membrane proteins and enzymes, receptors, hormone interaction, cell recognition, secretion, and biogenesis of membranes. BIOL 333 or equivalent, or permission required.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 469 - Eukaryotic Gene Regulation
In depth examination of the ways in which eukaryotic cells regulate their protein composition at the levels of genome replication, transcription, post-transcriptional modifications, and translations. Topics include chromatin structure, transcription factors, and DNA sequence elements, several cell-type specific transcriptional events and how these are regulated, as well as how transcriptional regulation gone awry can cause cancer.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 470 - Hormone Mechanisms
Course will examine the basic physiological, cellular and molecular pathways which regulate metabolism, growth, and neurological activities of organisms, especially mammals. Discussions will follow text information and general models will be supported with primary research literature to show developments from recent experiments.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 472 - Microbial Pathogenesis
Course focuses on the molecular basis of microbial pathogenesis. Through the application of molecular techniques to the study of the microbe-host interaction, scientists are gaining a fundamental understanding of the virulence mechanisms of microbial pathogens. Using primary literature the course will illustrate how the integration of the molecular basis of virulence mechanisms with the clinical aspects of disease has enhanced our understanding of the pathogenesis of infectious diseases.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 475 - Advanced Biochemistry
A continuation of BIOL 333, this course explores biochemical concepts and pathways with an emphasis on problem solving. Cellular control and coordination of biochemical pathways is emphasized in light of an advanced understanding of protein biochemistry. Lecture only.
3.000 Credit Hours
BIOL 497 - Biochemistry Seminar II
Students prepare oral presentations based on an assessment of current biochemical research papers. The course will help students to further develop critical reading and scientific communication skills. Faculty from both biology and chemistry participate in the seminar.
1.000 Credit Hours