The Biology major offers broad training in the biological sciences and balances organismal with cellular/ molecular biology. This background serves as a solid preparation for:
- future graduate level education in the biological sciences;
- future professional education in the health-related sciences;
- employment at the bachelors level; and
- additional training in other disciplines that require a thorough understanding of biology, such as sports medicine and various areas of business, communications, engineering, law and social policy development.
The biology graduate may be employed in a variety of fields including research, teaching, industry, government service, sales, technical writing and environmental management. Within these fields are numerous interest areas, e.g. biotechnology, public health, forestry, agriculture, toxicology, pharmacology, wildlife and fisheries sciences, physiology, sports medicine, etc. Students interested in teaching at the secondary-school level should major in the Biology program, while those interested in the medical technology profession should major in the Clinical Laboratory program.
The department also has developed programs for students interested in: Early Assurance Acceptance into the SUNY/Buffalo Medical and Dental Schools and Syracuse Medical School; Joint Degree Programs with SUNY/Buffalo Dental School, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, the New York and Ohio Colleges of Podiatric Medicine, and the New York College of Optometry; and dual major programs in Biology-Psychology. In addition, a series of specialized courses have been developed for the non-science major that relate biological concepts and scientific methodologies to societal issues facing humankind as a result of technological advances.
Student Learning Goals
Goal 1: Biology majors will be competent with respect to knowledge. Students will:
A. Evaluate energy transfer through biological systems;Goal 2: Biology majors will be competent with respect to problem-solving. Students will:
B. Describe information transfer within cells and between generations;
C. Describe structure-function relationships;
D. Examine and evaluate hierarchical organization of biological systems.
A. Solve quantitative word problems;Goal 3: Biology majors will be competent with respect to technical skills. Students will:
B. Interpret data;
C. Design experiments to test original hypotheses;
D. Critically analyze articles from the original scientific literature.
A. Effectively communicate scientific material in a written format;Qualifications for the major
B. Effectively communicate scientific material orally;
C. Draw graphs or design tables to accurately represent scientific information;
D. Utilize instrumentation and technology appropriate to their course of study;
E. Make correct identifications through observations.
Students must earn a C- in BIO 101 lecture before enrolling in BIO 102 lecture, and a C- in BIO 102 lecture before enrolling in BIO 201. Students must earn an overall 2.0 GPA to graduate with a degree from Canisius.
Advisement
All biology majors are assigned advisors within the department. All majors should work closely with their advisors in discussing career expectations, choosing their biology electives and developing their total academic programs. The advisor may be changed at the student’s request.
Biology Curriculum
The following curriculum fulfills all requirements and prepares students well for graduate schools in the biological sciences and for schools of allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, podiatry and optometry.
1. Core Curriculum Requirements:
Go to /academics/core.asp for the Core Curriculum requirements. All students complete these requirements as part of their overall Canisius education.
2. Major course requirements: (20 courses)
| A. Major Courses (14 courses) | ||
| BIO111/111L Introductory Biology I | 4 credits | |
| BIO112/112L Introductory Biology II | 4 credits | |
| BIO 211/211L Cellular Biology and Biochemistry I | 4 credits | |
| BIO 212/212L Cellular Biology and Biochemistry II | 4 credits | |
| BIO 351 Biology Seminar I | 1 credit | |
| BIO 353 Biology Seminar II | 1 credit | |
| CHM 111-112 General Chemistry (with labs) | 8 credits | |
| CHM 227-228 Organic Chemistry (with labs) | 8 credits | |
| PHY 201-202 General Physics (with labs) | 8 credits | |
| Mathematics electives: two courses: MAT-111 and MAT 141 or PSY 201; MAT 111-112; one year of statistics |
8 credits | |
| B. Major Electives (6 courses) | 22 credits | |
| Three courses and their associated laboratories must come from any three of the following four Tracks: I. Animal Biology (BIO 314, 315, 316, 340, 365, 366, 410, 460); II. Biological Diversity (BIO 305, 307, 320, 330, 335, 343); III. Cellular Biology (BIO 418, 419, 425, 426, 432, 435, 445, 455); and IV. Genetics/ Molecular Biology (BIO 404, 408, 412, 450). The remaining three biology electives may come from within these areas, or from other elective courses in biology, and at least one must include a laboratory. A student enrolled in three semesters of BIO 300 would fulfill this last laboratory requirement. Students should see their advisors to plan their selection. Prerequisites for all courses minimally include the completion of BIO 101/101L, BIO 102/102L, and BIO 201/201L | ||
3. Free Electives:
Free electives are courses in addition to the Core Curriculum and major requirements sufficient to reach a minimum of 120 credit hours for graduation. Students may graduate with more but not less than 120 credit hours
Recommended Semester Schedule for Major Courses
Students should consult with their major advisor every semester to discuss course offerings and the courses needed to meet graduation requirements. It is particularly important that the biology major maintain the indicated required science course sequence to ensure prerequisite requirements are met for upper-level courses and to ensure that all basic requirements have been completed prior to taking standardized graduate/professional school entrance examinations (e.g. GRE, MCAT, DAT). These exams are normally taken late in spring semester of the junior year. Biology majors are required to take BIO 203 in the sophomore year, as long as they have received at least a C in CHM 227
Recommended Schedule:
| Fall | Spring | |||||
| Freshman Year | ||||||
| BIO 111/111L | 4 credits | BIO 112/112L | 4 credits | |||
| CHM 111 | 4 credits | CHM 112 | 4 credits | |||
| Mathematics or AS | 4 or 3 credits | Mathematics | 4 credits | |||
| Sophomore Year | ||||||
| BIO 211/211L | 4 credits | CHM 228 | 4 credits | |||
| CHM 227 | 4 credits | BIO 212/212L | 4 credits | |||
| Junior Year | ||||||
| Biology elective | 3 or 4 credits | PHY 202 | 4 credits | |||
| PHY 201/L | 4 credits | Biology elective | 3 or 4 credits | |||
| BIO 351 | 1 credit | |||||
| Senior Year | ||||||
| Biology elective | 3 or 4 credits | Biology elective | 3 or 4 credits | |||
| Biology elective | 3 or 4 credits | Biology elective | 3 or 4 credits | |||
| BIO 353 | 1 credit |
Special Programs
Biology With Distinction. This program is intended for biology majors who have a true interest in research. Upon graduation they will receive certification of completing their major “with distinction”. Program requirements include writing of a formal research proposal to be submitted to their thesis committee, completion of the research project (600 research hours minimum), writing the final thesis paper, and presentation of a departmental seminar with verbal thesis defense in front of their committee. Interested students must apply to this program by January of their junior year. See department chair for complete details.
Early Assurance Program with S.U.N.Y. Buffalo Medical School or Syracuse Medical School: Qualified students may apply to the State University of New York Medical School or Syracuse Medical School during their sophomore year. Those accepted will be admitted into the Medical School freshman class after their graduation from Canisius.
Early Assurance Program with S.U.N.Y. Buffalo Dental School: Qualified students may apply to the S.U.N.Y. Buffalo Dental School during their sophomore year. Those accepted will be admitted into the Dental School freshman class after their graduation from Canisius.
Joint Degree Program with S.U.N.Y. Buffalo Dental School, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Ohio or New York Colleges of Podiatric Medicine or the New York College of Optometry. These are seven-year programs, of which the first three years are spent at Canisius and the last four years at either the S.U.N.Y. Dental School or the N.Y. College of Podiatric Medicine. A B.S. degree will be awarded from Canisius College after completion of the first year of dental or podiatric school. The D.D.S., D.O., D.P.M., or O.D. degree will be awarded at the end of seven years. Joint degree students must meet biology major distribution requirements. Students should see an advisor to plan course selections.
Ontario Veterinary College DVM Program. The Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) of the University of Guelph, Guelph Ontario, has agreed to hold two (2) places per year specifically for Canisius College students that apply and meet the qualifications for their DVM program in veterinary medicine. Students interested in this opportunity must notify the pre-health advisor and/or HSARC director of their intention to apply to OVC by November 1st of their senior year in order to be considered eligible. This opportunity is not available for Canisius students that are Canadian citizens.
Please note: In all special programs, the student, once accepted, must meet the requirements established by each professional school.
Schedule (Joint Degree Program with S.U.N.Y. Buffalo Dental School):
| Fall | Spring | |||||
| Freshman Year | ||||||
| BIO 111/111L | 4 credits | BIO 112/112L | 4 credits | |||
| CHM 111 | 4 credits | CHM 112 | 4 credits | |||
| MAT 141 or MAT 111 | 4 credits | |||||
| Sophomore Year | ||||||
| BIO 211/212L | 4 credits | BIO 212/212L | 4 credits | |||
| CHM 227 | 4 credits | CHM 228 | 4 credits | |||
| MAT 111 or MAT 141 | 4 credits | |||||
| BIO 351 | 1 credit | |||||
| Junior Year | ||||||
| Biology elective w/ lab | 4 credits | Biology elective w/ lab | 4 credits | |||
| Biology elective w/ lab | 4 credits | Biology elective w/out lab | 3 credits | |||
| PHY 201 | 4 credits | PHY 201 | 4 credits |
Dual Major
The number of electives available to biology majors allows the development of dual majors with other departments. Specific programs have been developed in Biology-Psychology. The Biology-Psychology major may select those courses that are cross-listed with the Psychology Department and listed below. The advisor is Dr. Michael Noonan of the Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation (ABEC) program. Members of the biology faculty also frequently cooperate with other departmental faculty in the presentation of interdisciplinary courses.
Minors
The Biology Department also offers six minors: Cell and Molecular Biology, Environmental Biology, Neuroscience, Biology, Animal Behavior and Zoo Biology. Students interested in the Cell and Molecular, Environmental, Neuroscience, or Biology minors should consult with their departmental advisor to plan the proper course selections. Students interested in the Animal Behavior and Zoo Biology minors should consult with Dr. Michael Noonan, director of the Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation (ABEC) program. A description of the Animal Behavior and Zoo Biology minors can be located within the ABEC pages of the college catalog.
The Cell and Molecular Biology Minor is open to students who are majoring in biology or biochemistry. For students seeking employment at the B.S. level, a Departmental “Letter of Proficiency in Laboratory Skills” may be requested upon completion of the minor. This letter requires the passing of a laboratory skills competency examination, details of which are available from departmental advisors.
Students select six courses from those listed below. At least four of the six courses must be taken with the laboratory, and no more than four courses and three laboratories may come from either the cell or genetics/molecular area.
| Cell area: BIO 418, 419, 425, 426, 432, 435, 445, 455. Genetics/ Molecular area: BIO 404, 408, 412, 450. |
||
| TOTAL (6 courses) | 22 credits |
Environmental Biology Minor
The Environmental Biology minor is open to students majoring in biology. It provides a broad preparation for entry into B.S. level positions in the environmental sciences and advanced study at the graduate level.2
| Students must complete one course from each of the following groups: Diversity: BIO 305, 335, 343, 365, 366 Field Methods: BIO 320 Toxicology/Health: BIO 360, 460 Three additional electives from the following group are also required: BIO 305, 315, 320, 332, 335, 343, 360, 365, 366, 430, 455, 460. Note: At least four of the six courses must be taken with the laboratory | |
| TOTAL (6 courses) | 22 credits |
The Neuroscience minor may be earned by any student who completes the required courses. Note that there are prerequisites for some courses that will effectively limit accessibility to Biology and Biology/Psychology majors.
| Students must take either BIO 425/425L or BIO 435/435L with its laboratory. Students select 4 electives from: BIO 325, 345, 355, 425; 435, PSY 397, BIO 300, PSY 495 | |
| TOTAL (5 courses) |
16-19 credits |
Biology Minor
Biology Minor may be earned by any student who completes the required courses. Co- and/or pre-requisites for some of the required courses may effectively limit accessibility.
| Students must complete 6 courses for the minor, five of which have labs. Four of these courses are required and two are electives. Required courses include: BIO101/101L, BIO 102/102L, BIO 201/201L, BIO 203. Students must choose one elective at the 300 level and one elective at the 400 level. Both of these classes must be taken with their associated laboratories | |
| TOTAL (6 courses) |
23 credits |
Animal Behavior Minor and Zoo Biology Minor
See descriptions under the Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation (ABEC) entry in this catalog.
COURSES: 2009 - 2011
BIO 111 Introductory Biology 3 credits
Intra- and inter-specific interactions between organisms, interactions between organisms and their environment, and mechanisms of evolutionary change and speciation. Three hours of lecture and one one-hour recitation per week. (Field 6)
BIO 101L Introductory Biology Laboratory I 1 credit
Examination of experimental methodologies that relate to biological processes.
BIO 112 Introductory Biology 3 credits
Introduction to principles governing biological processes at the organismal level in plants and animals. Function of organisms is stressed. Three hours of lecture and one one-hour recitation per week. Prerequisite: BIO 111 with at least a C-. (Field 6)
BIO 112L Introductory Biology Laboratory II 1 credit
Examination of experimental methodologies that relate to biological processes.
BIO 211 Cellular Biology and Biochemistry I 3 credits
Introduction to principles governing biological processes at the cellular/molecular level with emphasis on the role of experimentation in the scientific process. Combination of the structure and chemical reactions of biological molecules with the biological aspects of biochemistry. Control of metabolism. Biological membranes. Replication/transcription/ translation. Requires recitation. Prerequisite: BIO 111-112 with at least a C-.
BIO 211L Cellular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory I 1 credit
Investigative laboratories in cellular biology and biochemistry.
BIO 212 Cellular Biology and Biochemistry II 3 credits
Introduction to principles governing biological processes at the cellular/molecular level with emphasis on the role of experimentation in the scientific process. Combination of the structure and chemical reactions of biological molecules with the biological aspects of biochemistry. Control of metabolism. Biological membranes. Replication/transcription/ translation. Requires recitation. Prerequisite: BIO 211.
BIO 212L Cellular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory II 1 credit
Investigative laboratories in cellular biology and biochemistry.
BIO 351 Biology Seminar I 1 credit
This replaces BIO 352 Junior Seminar. Learning and practicing of various methods of presenting scientific/experimental information. Attendance at faculty seminars required. Prerequisites: BIO 101, 102,201, 203.
BIO 353 Biology Seminar II 1 credit
This course title replaces BIO 451 Senior Seminar. Student presents seminar on research of the primary biological literature. Attendance at faculty seminars required. Prerequisite: BIO 351 Seminar I
BIOLOGY ELECTIVES FOR MAJORS
BIO 305 Microbial Ecology 3 credits
The role of microorganisms in the environment. Microbial techniques, interactions among microbial populations, microbial communities, ecosystems, biogeochemical cycling, bioremediation, mineral and energy recovery. Lab optional. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201; CHM 227.
BIO 305L Microbial Ecology Labortory 1 credits
Techniques that allow the measurement of microorganisms in the environment, such as: microscopy, aseptic techniques, isolation and culture of specialized groups of bacteria, water quality assessment, biodegradation of wastes and pollutants. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 305.
BIO 307 Microbiology 3 credits
Cell structure, genetics, biochemistry and physiology of microorganisms, with emphasis on bacteria. Medical aspects. Food and industrial microbiology. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201; CHM 227.
BIO 307L Microbiology Laboratory 1 credits
Microbiology laboratory is concerned primarily with the cell structure, growth, physiology and identification of bacteria. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 307.
BIO 314 Comparative Anatomy 4 credits
Intensive study of selected organ systems of lower chordates and representative vertebrates. Evolutionary modifications will provide the framework for the course. The laboratory will focus on dissection and will concentrate on structure/function relationships. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 315 Comparative Animal Behavior 3 credits
Behavior of a wide range of species. Similarities and contrasts allow deductions regarding mechanisms and evolution. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 315L Comparative Animal Behavior Laboratory 1 credits
Lab and field exercises illustrate concepts from class. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 315.
BIO 316 Social Organization of Mammals 4 credits
Behavior and social structures of rodents, felines, canines, cetaceans, elephants, monkeys, apes and humans. Lab is required and includes observation of animal groupings at local zoos and aquariums. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 317 Sex, Evolution and Behavior 3 credits
Reproductive behavior of diverse animal species, including humans, from evolutionary perspective. Focus on how evolutionary accounts explain male-female differences in life style and behavior. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 320 Field Ecology 4 credits
Introduction to the flora, fauna and physical characteristics of regional ecosystems, with emphasis on field methods and application of ecological theory. Three hours of lecture and six hours of lab per week. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 322 Conservation Biology 3 credits
Study of the plight of endangered species, the biological consequences of fragmented populations, and the scientific basis of habitat/species restoration.
BIO 325 Reproductive Biopsychology 3 credits
Neuro-endocrine mechanisms underlying behavior associated with sex, pregnancy, and parental care. Equal focus on human and non-human behavior. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 331 Histochemical Techniques 4 credits
Theory and techniques for preparing tissue for light microscopy. Lab intensive. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 332 Medical Veterinary Entomology 3 credits
Introduction to the arthropods that cause disease and public health issues in humans and animals. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102.
BIO 335 Plant Biology 3 credits
Critical examination of the structure, physiology and biochemistry of vascular plants. Plant taxonomy. Emphasis on the interaction of plants with their environment. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 335L Plant Biology Laboratory 1 credits
Investigative survey of plant structure & function.Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 335.
BIO 340 Physiology 3 credits
Function of organ systems, emphasizing neuroendocrine integration and other regulatory processes. Includes animal models, clinical experience and mechanisms of drug action. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 340L Physiology Laboratory 1 credits
Experimental study of organ systems and components, using surgical, biochemical, and hematological techniques and electronic instrumentation. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 340.
BIO 343 Entomology 4 credits
Introduction to the diversity and natural history of insects, with emphasis on identification of species. Three hours of lecture and three hours of lab weekly. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 345 Functional Neuroanatomy 3 credits
Fundamentals of neuroanatomy and neurophysiology. Embryology, histology, and cellular structure as well as sensory and motor components and circuitry. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 350 Zoo Biology 4 credits
The roles of zoos in conservation, education and research. The interaction of environment, genetic, nutritional, and psychosocial factors in the management of captive animal populations and species survival plans. Lab is required and includes laboratory exercises in enrichment and numerous experiential field trips to nearby zoos and aquariums. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 355 Behavioral Neuroscience 3 credits
Functions of nervous /endocrine systems in mediating motivation, movement, sensation, ingestion, aggression, emotion, sleep, learning, memory, thought and behavior disorders. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 360 Environmental Health 3 credits
Environmental effects on human health, including biological, physical and chemical hazards in water soil, and air. Course focuses on public health & epidemiological study approaches. Emerging issues also discussed. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 365 Vertebrate Zoology and Ecology 4 credits
The biology of the vertebrates including anatomy, evolution, ecology, natural history and behavior. Labs involve some anatomy, learning local and North American species and groups, and field trips. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 366 Ornithology 4 credits
Phylogenetic relationships, ecology, natural history and the behavior of birds. Laboratory focuses on world-wide diversity, local species and field techniques. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 371 Behavioral Ecology 3 credits
Animal behavior from an evolutionary perspective, focusing on the influences of evolutionary history and environment on behaviors including foraging, communication, reproduction, and social behavior. Prerequisites: BIO 101-102, 201.
BIO 400 Independent Study 3 credits
Independent study under the direction of a faculty member. Arrangements made prior to registration. Prerequisite: Written permission of tutorial faculty member.
BIO 401 Independent Research 4 credits
Independent laboratory research in biology conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Arrangements made prior to registration. Prerequisite: Written permission of faculty member.
BIO 404 Genetics 3 credits
Principles of Mendelian, molecular, population, human and quantitative genetics, with emphasis on inherited diseases. Formerly BIO 304. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 404L Genetics Laboratory 1 credits
Principles of Mendelian and molecular genetics as demonstrated by experiments with C. elegans. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 404.
BIO 405 Medical Genetics 3 credits
Modes of transmission of human characteristics and diseases in families and populations; the molecular basis of human disease; the genetics of cancer and the screening, diagnosis and therapy of specific genetic diseases. Formerly BIO 318. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 408 Biotechnology, Theory in Practice 4 credits
Introduction to the theory and experiments that are the foundation of biotechnology through lecture and laboratory. Topics include: genetic engineering, mutagenesis, separation technology, immunobiotechnology and cell biology. Lab required. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 410 Histology and Histophysiology 4 credits
A systematic study of structure and function of cells and tissues as viewed by light and electron microscopes. Lab employs Kodachrome and tissue slides. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour lab per week. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 412 Evolution & Development 3 credits
Evolution of development, e.g. how structures arise during development of the embryo and the evolution of genetic pathways that control the process of development. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 412L Evolution & Development Laboratory 1 credits
Investigative lab focuses on projects designed to characterize molecular changes during development in a variety of organisms. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 414 Enzymes and Proteins 3 credits
The biochemical characteristics of proteins and enzymes will be examined using a modular approach to target important structural proteins and regulatory enzymes of animal and plant metabolism. Prerequisite: BIO 203 or BCH 301.
BIO 414L Enzymes and Proteins Laboratory 1 credits
Experimental techniques for the purification of proteins, the analysis of protein function and the measurement of enzyme kinetics. Prerequisite: BIO203 or BCH 301/301L
BIO 416 Virology 3 credits
This course will discuss the types and pathogenesis of viruses that cause human and animal viral diseases. The medically important groups of DNA viruses, RNA viruses, and slow viruses (prions) will be discussed in terms of pathogenesis and epidemiology. In additional, techniques for studying the replication and quantification of viral infections will be discussed. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 416L Virology Laboratory 1 credits
Methods for culturing, isolating and characterizing viruses, as well as experimental methods used in the study of viruses. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 416.
BIO 418 Endocrinology 3 credits
Synthesis and cellular/molecular actions of peptides and steroid hormones, growth factors, cytokines, and their roles in regulating physiological processes, maintenance of homeostasis and cancer biology. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 418L Endocrinology Laboratory 1 credit
Experimental laboratories researching current topics in endocrinology at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 418.
BIO 419 Cell Biology 3 credits
Recent developments in cytology, including genetic information storage and retrieval, protein processing and secretion, motility, chemotaxis, energy sources and the cell in its environment. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 419L Cell Biology Laboratory 1 credits
Techniques of cell culture; isolation and characterization of cellular organelles and experimental analysis of cellular physiology. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 419.
BIO 425 Cellular Neurobiology 3 credits
Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying nerve function. Topics include: signaling within the nervous system, neuropharmacology and neuropathology. Prerequisite: BCH 301-301L or BIO 203.
BIO 425L Cellular Neurobiology Laboratory 1 credits
Experimental laboratories researching current topics in cell and molecular neurobiology. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 425.
BIO 426 Immunochemistry 3 credits
Structural concept of antigenic determinants, immunoglobulin sequences and combining site specificity related to the diversity of the immune response and its control. Prerequisite: BCH 301-301L or BIO 203.
BIO 426L Immunochemistry Laboratory 1 credit
Current methods in immunological research and diagnosis. Designed to present available methodology and insight into the underlying principles. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 426.
BIO 430 Medicinal Botany 3 credits
The importance of diverse plant life to human health; the biosynthesis, ecological significance and pharmacology of drugs derived from plants. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 432 Developmental Biology 3 credits
The cellular and molecular phenomena that result in the development of a complex multicellular organism from a single cell, the zygote. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 432 Developmental Biology Laboratory 1 credit
Examination of cellular and molecular aspects of animal development using classical model organisms. Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in BIO 432.
BIO 435 Developmental Neurobiology 3 credits
Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neural development: neural determination, cell migration, axon guidance, apoptosis, synaptogenesis, myelination and nerve regeneration. The scientific methodology used in current research will be stressed.? Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 435 Developmental Neurobiology Laboratory 1 credits
Experimental studies of the development and regeneration of nervous tissue using neuronal tissue culture and digital microscopy. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 435.
BIO 440 Medical Biochemistry 3 credits
Biochemistry of disease. Includes examination of pathways and regulatory enzymes that lead to normal and disease states. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 445 Cellular Imaging 4 credits
Use of microscopy and digital imaging technology to study living eukaryotic cells. Experimental laboratory focuses. Lab required. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 450 Molecular Biology 3 credits
Current approaches to recombinant DNA technology and molecular genetic research. Both conceptual and laboratory approaches will be pursued. Topics: cancer development, cell growth, chemical evolution. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 450L Molecular Biology Laboratory 1 credit
Exposure to electrophoresis, chromatography, bacterial transformation, restriction enzyme analysis, N13 viral propagation, in vitro packaging of viral DNA - techniques used in recombinant DNA research. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 450.
BIO 454 Genomics and Proteomics 3 credits
A survey of genomic, proteomic and metabolomic techniques used in modern biological and biochemical studies. Journal articles utilizing these techniques will be used as the basis for understanding these techniques and how they fit into systems biology. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 455 Environmental Physiology 3 credits
Introduction to the underlying physiological mechanisms involved in organismal adaptation to various environmental conditions (e.g. temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pressure). Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 455L Environmental Physiology Laboratory 1 credits
An investigative laboratory examining organismal adaptation to various environmental parameters. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 455.
BIO 460 Environmental Toxicology 3 credits
Major environmental toxicants examined from viewpoints of bioavailability, bioaccumulation, biodegradation, toxic properties, interference in metabolism. Emphasis on effects of contaminants on functioning of animals. Prerequisite: BCH 301, 301L or BIO 203.
BIO 460L Environmental Toxicology Laboratory 1 credits
Experimental laboratory researching a current topic in environmental toxicology. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 460.
BIO 498 Biology With Distinction Thesis 3 credits
Requirement for any student seeking to complete the Biology with Distinction degree option. Must be taken by seniors in the fall or spring of their senior year.
NON-MAJOR BIOLOGY COURSES
BIO 109 Nutrition 3 credits
How food intake influences us as individuals and as components of society; what food is; how we get and use food; processes regulating its use. (Field 6)
BIO 116 Disease: Myth and Reality 3 credits
Exploration of causation, treatment and prevention of illness. Objective: to increase awareness and understanding of health and disease. (Field 6)
BIO 117 Plants and Human Affairs 3 credits
Various ways in which plants affect human existence. Topics include food products, building (utilitarian) applications, medicinal and poisonous plants, propagation and improvement, roles in ecology. (Field 6)
BIO 120 Biology in the News 3 credits
The biological concepts underlying science articles appearing in the current news media, examining these concepts in the context of relevant economic, social and cultural issues. Topics will vary. (Field 6)
BIO 125 Microbes and People 3 credits
The relationship between microbes and their environment as they impact human disease, through food preparation and spoilage and environmental exposure. (Field 6)
BIO 131 Biotechnology and Society 3 credits
Relationship between biology, technology and society. Awareness of the impact of biotechnology on our society. (Field 6)
BIO 132 Genes and People 3 credits
How human characteristics are transmitted and affect future generations. Ethical and legal ramifications of genetic advances. (Field 6)
BIO 135 Environmental Biology 3 credits
Introduction to the complex interactions that occur between humans and their environments, and how other life forms are impacted by these activities. Field 6)
BIO 137 Special Topics in Natural History 3 credits
Ecological and evolutionary concepts are explored using specific examples from a particular ecosystem, specifically by focusing on the organisms of an ecosystem and their interactions with each other and the environment. (Field 6)
BIO 138 Special Topics in Natural History, Field Experience 3 credits
Travel to a field site to study the natural history of that area. Ecology and evolution will be studied in the field by collecting observations, and developing and testing ecological hypotheses
at the chosen field site.
BIO 150 Zoo Nutrition 3 credits
Nutrition and dietary science focused on the maintenance of wildlife in captivity. Practical examples at our local zoo and aquariums are included.
BIO 221 Biology of Women 3 credits
Biological principles applied to the human female. Structure, function, growth and development throughout the life cycle. Includes relevant social, psychological and medical information.
RST 448 Bio-Moral Problems 3 credits
Considers a number of problem areas, such as genetic intervention, medical experimentation, behavior control, organ transplants and resource allocation, and death and dying. See course description in Religious Studies and Theology.
OTHER COURSES
(for health-related professionals and Physical Education majors; may not be used as biology electives).
BIO 107-108 Human Anatomy and Physiology 6 credits
Specialized introductory course in human biology for those students requiring a rigorous and thorough understanding of the structure and function of the human body. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour lab per week. Prerequisite: Exercise Science, Physical Education, and Medical Technology majors only. Students must earn a minimum grade of C in BIO 107 to advance to BIO 108.
BIO 107-108L Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab 2 credits
Model and experiments will be used to enhance the student’s understanding of the concepts taught in BIO 107-108. Meets once a week for three hours. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 107-108.
1 Joint appointment with the Psychology Department.
2 There is also an Environmental Science Program.