Biology

Degrees and Certificates

Classes

BIO 1101 : Biology

General principles, cells and energy, hereditary mechanisms, survey of organisms, evolution and ecological principles. For non-biologists who do not plan a more extensive study of biology. Open to VSB majors.

Credits

Credits 3

BIO 1181 : Microbiology and Genetics

The structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; microbial classification; control of microbial growth, principles of disease; pathogenic mechanisms; host defenses. Eukaryotic and prokaryotic gene organization and function; analysis of patterns of inheritance; recombinant DNA technology; linkage and genetic maps, genetic variation in human populations; inheritance, diagnosis and treatment of metabolic disease; cytogenetics; immunogenetics; cancer; developmental genetics. Open to Nursing majors.

Credits

Credits 3

BIO 1205 : Human Anatomy & Physiology I

Basic concepts and laboratory studies of anatomy and physiology with presentation of overall morphology and function of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems. Designed primarily for Nursing majors and students interested in allied health professions.

Credits

Credits 4

BIO 1206 : Human Anatomy & Physiology II

Continuation of Biology 1205. The structure and function of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and immune systems. Designed primarily for Nursing majors and students interested in allied health professions.

Credits

Credits 4

BIO 1955 : Lec&Lab Free Elective in Bio

Selected topics in biological and interdisciplinary studies with lectures and accompanying lab. Will not count for biology credit for the major or minor.

Credits

Credits 4

BIO 2101 : General Biology I Lecture

The lecture portion of Bio 2105. An introduction to biological organization stressing the molecular and cellular aspects of living organisms. The chemistry of life, the cell, the gene, and mechanisms of evolution.

Credits

Credits 3

Corequisites

BIO 2102 : General Biology I Lab

The laboratory portion of BIO 2105; taken with BIO 2101. An introduction to biological organization stressing the molecular and cellular aspects of living organisms. The chemistry of life, the cell, the gene, and mechanisms of evolution.

Credits

Credits 1

Corequisites

BIO 2103 : General Biology II Lecture

The lecture portion of BIO 2106. The origin of life and diversity of organisms seen in five biological kingdoms. Topics include nutrient acquisition, digestion, circulation, response to stimuli, movement, reproduction, behavior, and ecology.

Credits

Credits 3

Corequisites

BIO 2104 : General Biology II Lab

The laboratory portion of BIO 2106; taken with BIO 2103. The origin of life and diversity of organisms seen in five biological kingdoms. Topics include nutrient acquisition digestion, circulation, response to stimuli, movement, reproduction, behavior and ecology.

Credits

Credits 1

Corequisites

BIO 2105 : General Biology I

An introduction to biological organization stressing the molecular and cellular aspects of living organisms. The chemistry of life, the cell, the gene, and mechanisms of evolution.

Credits

Credits 4

BIO 2106 : General Biology II

The origin of life and diversity of organisms seen in five biological kingdoms. Topics include nutrient acquisition, digestion, circulation, response to stimuli, movement, reproduction, behavior, and ecology.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 3011 : Animal Behavior Lecture

This is the lecture-only alternative to the lecture/lab course BIO 3015; Animal Behavior, and does not count towards the EcoEvoPop Bio requirement for the Biology major. Topics include communication, foraging, territoriality, mating systems, parental behavior, and social organization.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 3015 : Animal Behavior

Lecture topics cover communication, foraging, territoriality, mating systems, parental behavior, and social organization. Laboratories include collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of behavioral data, culminating in a small-group independent research project.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 or HON 1075) and (BIO 2106 or HON 1076)

BIO 3055 : Human Physiology

The basic principles underlying how animals function and the mechanisms used to solve physiological problems.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 3105 : Biostatistics & Exp Design

The conceptualization of experimental design, hypothesis testing, execution of statistical analyses, written and oral expression of statistical results, and effective graphical presentation of quantitative data.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 or HON 1075) and (BIO 2106 or HON 1076)

BIO 3155 : Comparative Anatomy

Evolution of homologous structures of vertebrates including functional considerations. Laboratory includes systematic and topical dissection of representative chordates and demonstrations of living organisms' functions.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 3225 : Imaging Technology

Introduction to imaging technologies, including light and fluorescent microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Course covers both theoretical and applied microscopy.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 3255 : Evolutionary Ecology

Factors affecting the distribution, abundance, and interactions of organisms. Climate patterns, biomes, physiological adaption, behavioral ecology, population dynamics, species interactions, biodiversity, and conservation ecology. Emphasis on community level of organization and below; complements BIO 3385 Global Change Ecology. Hypothesis testing using statistical analysis of data.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 3351 : Genetics

Transmission, molecular, evolutionary and population genetics, gene regulation and genomics. Heredity; how genetic information is stored, regulated and transferred; how genes interact and relate to phenotype. Tutorials develop problem-solving and bioinformatics skills, and provide a forum for discussion. Chemistry pre-requisites may be taken concurrently.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 or HON 1075) and (CHM 1103 and CHM 1151 or CHM 1611) or (CHM 1311 and CHM 1301)

BIO 3385 : Global Change Ecology

Roles of ecology in documenting, responding, feeding back to, and mitigating human-caused changes to Earth's chemistry, geography and climate. Laboratories include ecological techniques, such as carbon flux measurements, and independent research projects. Emphasis on ecosystem-level processes with global consequences; complements BIO 3255 Evolutionary Ecology.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 and BIO 2106

BIO 3405 : Higher Vertebrates

Evolutionary history, diversification and basic biology of birds and mammals: ecological and physiological adaptations, reproductive biology, social behavior, population ecology, life history strategies, taxonomy and identification. Field trips.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 3455 : Histology

The microscopic study and demonstration of cells, tissues and organ systems of the mammalian body.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 3485 : Marine Biology

An introduction to chemical, physical and geological oceanography; the biology and ecology of marine organisms (Plankton, seaweeds, invertebrates, fishes, sea birds, marine mammals); and the comparative ecology of marine communities and ecosystems (estuaries, rocky intertidal, kelp forests, coral reefs, the deep sea and hydrothermal vents).

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 or HON 1075) and (BIO 2106 or HON 1076)

BIO 3525 : Entomology

Lecture includes anatomy, sensory systems, physiological adaptations, reproductive biology, social behavior and interactions with humans. Laboratory includes functional morphology, ecology and taxonomy of preserved and collected specimens. Complements Invertebrate Zoology, which covers freshwater and marine invertebrates.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 and BIO 2106

BIO 3591 : General Microbiology Lecture

This is the lecture-only alternative to the lecture/lab course BIO 3595: General Microbiology. Bacteria, viruses, eukaryotic microbes, immune function. Microbes in air, water, soil: interactions with plants and animals. Agricultural, commercial, industrial, and medical applications.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 or HON 1075

BIO 3595 : General Microbiology

Bacteria, viruses, eukaryotic microbes, immune function. Microbes in air, water, soil: interactions with plants and animals. Agricultural, commercial, industrial, and medical applications. Laboratory studies in growth and analysis of selected organisms/viruses.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-)

BIO 3661 : Environment and Human Health

Presentation and discussion of scientific aspects of topics relating to the environment and human health. Specific topics covered vary, but could include biodiversity and health, ecosystem services, infectious diseases, climate change, endocrine disruption, food production (including GMOs), and urban ecology.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 and BIO 2106) or (GEV 1050 and GEV 1051)

BIO 3905 : Vascular Plants

Organization of the vascular plant body, plant reproduction and development, systematic and environmental considerations, tissue culture and hormonal regulation.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 3950 : Special Topics in Biology

Coverage of current topics in biology. Topics will be announced on a semester-by-semester basis. Specific information available in the departmental office.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 and BIO 2106

BIO 3955 : Lec+Lab in Topics in Biology

Coverage of current topics in biology with lectures and accompanying lab. Topics will be announced on a semester-by-semester basis. Specific information available in the departmental office.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 and BIO 2106

BIO 4105 : Medical Microbiology

In-depth study of medical microbes including bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites. Discussion of pathogenesis, disease diagnosis, vaccine design, microbe hunting. Case studies presented. Lab provides hands-on microbiology including diagnostics, horizontal gene transfer, and tissue culture assays.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 3595 :D- or BIO 3351 or BIO 3755

BIO 4201 : Cell Biology Lecture

This is the lecture-only alternative to the lecture/lab course BIO 4205: Cell Biology. The mechanisms of cell signaling, regulation of growth and division, adhesion, movement, macromolecular, biosynthesis, processing and trafficking.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

BIO 3351 and CHM 2212 :Y

BIO 4205 : Cell Biology

The mechanisms of cell signaling, regulation of growth and division, adhesion, movement, macromolecular biosynthesis, processing and trafficking. Important experimental techniques and strategies for study of the eukaryotic cell.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 3351 :D- and CHM 2212 :Y :D-

BIO 4285 : Developmental Biology

Mechanisms and patterns of vertebrate embryo development from primordial germ cells to formation of organ systems. Lectures on, and laboratory work with living embryos; microscopic study of prepared embryos; and individual research projects.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 3351 :D-

BIO 4305 : Evolution

Process and pattern from micro- and macro-evolutionary perspectives. Evolutionary genetics, natural selection, speciation, macroevolutionary trends, and extinctions. Field, laboratory, and computer approaches.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 3351 :D-

BIO 4331 : Biology of Cancer

Coverage of causes, genetics, clinical aspects, and cell biology of cancer from preneoplastic state to invasive metastasis. Includes diagnosis, therapeutics, treatment, and prevention. Coursework in cell and/or molecular biology preferred.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

BIO 3351

BIO 4355 : Experimental Genetics

Laboratory exploration and discussion of topics in bacterial, developmental, molecular, population and transmission genetics. Readings in the primary literature are stressed.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 3351 :D-

BIO 4451 : Field Ecol and Evol

Advanced study of organisms and ecosystems of a particular region (location varies; has included Florida, Puerto Rico, Nova Scotia). General principles explored using examples from focal area: historical and ecological biogeography, habitat patterns, biotic and abiotic interaction, evolutionary processes, and conservation problems.

Credits

Credits 2

Prerequisites

BIO 3012 :D- or BIO 3255 :D- or BIO 4305 :D- or BIO 3505 :D- or BIO 3555 :D- or BIO 3905 :D- or BIO 4485 :D- or BIO 3505 :D-

Corequisites

BIO 4452 : Field Ecol and Evol Lab

Field study of organisms and ecosystems of a focal region. Trip lasting 15-20 days usually in late May to geographical area covered in BIO 4451, with focus on local habitats and conservations projects, field identification, group exercises, and independent research projects. Costs to students and timing vary with site chosen. (2 cr) Sem 2, even year.

Credits

Credits 2

Prerequisites

BIO 3012 :D- or BIO 3255 :D- or BIO 4305 :D- and BIO 4451 :Y :D-

Corequisites

BIO 4501 : Molecular Biology Lecture

This is the lecture-only alternative to the lecture/lab course BIO 4505: Molecular Biology. DNA structure, replication, recombination, mutagenesis and repair, transcription, RNA processing, translation and the genetic code, control of gene expression, eukaryotic genome structure. Molecular aspects of immunity, cancer; and AIDS

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

BIO 3351 and CHM 2212 :Y

BIO 4505 : Molecular Biology

DNA structure, replication, recombination, mutagenesis and repair, transcription, RNA processing, translation and the genetic code, control of gene expression, eukaryotic genome structure. Molecular aspects of immunity, cancer, and AIDS. Laboratory exercises in gene cloning and analysis.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 3351 :D- and CHM 2212 :Y

Corequisites

BIO 4605 : Neurobiology

The physiology of the nervous system using vertebrates and invertebrates. The function of nerve cells, synapses, sensory, motor, behavior and learning.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 3055 :D-

BIO 4801 : Conservation Biology

Scope of global biodiversity crisis and causes of endangerment. Ecology of rare and declining species. Biological aspects of species, community, and ecosystem management. Scientific foundation of conservation policy development and implementation.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

BIO 3255

BIO 4940 : Topics in Biology

Current topics in biology. Topics will be announced on a semester-by-semester basis. Typically has a course at the 3000-level as a prerequisite. Specific information will be available in the department office.

Credits

Credits 2

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 and BIO 2106

BIO 4950 : Advanced Topics in Biology

Coverage of current topics in biology. Topics will be announced on a semester-by-semester basis. Typically has a course at the 3000-level as a prerequisite. Specific information available in the departmental office.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 and BIO 2106

BIO 4955 : Lec+Lab in Adv Topics in Bio.

Advanced topics course with integrated lab. Topics will be announced on a semester-by-semester basis. Typically has a course at the 3000-level as a prerequisite. Specific information available in the departmental office.

Credits

Credits 4

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 and BIO 2106

BIO 5100 : Senior Seminar

Special topics in modern biology, presented by student lectures and informal discussions. Topics to be announced each semester.

Credits

Credits 1

BIO 5200 : Biology Capstone

Special topics in biology, covered through readings from primary and secondary literature, student presentations and/or projects and discussions. Topics to be announced each semester.

Credits

Credits 2

BIO 5300 : Biology Capstone

Special topics in biology, covered through readings from primary and secondary literature, student presentations and/or projects, and discussions. Topics to be announced each semester.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 :D- and BIO 2106 :D-

BIO 6101 : Leadership & Mentoring in Bio

Student mentors will learn about leadership, pedagogy and higher learning by helping first-year Biology students, including those with socioeconomic or other disadvantages, to develop study skills, time management assistance, test anxiety strategies, and pathways for navigating academics.

Credits

Credits 1

Prerequisites

BIO 2105 and BIO 2106

BIO 6509 : Directed Research

Library &/or laboratory research under student-selected Biology faculty member (can lead to thesis research.) Sem 1&2. Prerequisite: permission of faculty mentor & instructor; 3.0 QPA. Restricted to junior or senior biology & BSC majors. Does not count for biology laboratory credit alone.

Credits

Credits 2

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 :D- or HON 1075 :D-) and (BIO 2106 :D- or HON 1076 :D-)

BIO 6609 : Thesis Research I

Laboratory research with Biology faculty member selected by student (part 1 of two-semester sequence). Fall semester. Requires permission of faculty mentor & instructor and 3.0 QPA. Part 1 of two-semester sequence; continues as Thesis Research II, which culminates in a written thesis.

Credits

Credits 3

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 or HON 1075) and (BIO 2106 or HON 1076)

Corequisites

BIO 6610

BIO 6610 : Thesis Proseminar

Scheduled group meetings with other research students in the department, focusing on general and specific aspects of thesis research. Fall semester. Requires permission of instructor and 3.0 QPA. Continues as Thesis Research II, which culminates in a written thesis. (Corequisites: BIO 6609 or HON 6000 or HON 6001)

Credits

Credits 1

Prerequisites

(BIO 2105 or HON 1075) and (BIO 2106 or HON 1076)

Corequisites

BIO 6709 : Thesis Research II

Continuation of Thesis Research I or Directed Research. Laboratory research with Biology faculty member selected by student. Spring semester. Requires permission of faculty mentor & instructor and 3.0 QPA. Culminates in a written thesis. Counts typically for Laboratory credit toward the major.

Credits

Credits 2

Prerequisites

BIO 6509 or BIO 6609

Corequisites

BIO 5100

MSE 2200 : BIO:Behavioral Bio of Animals

Mechanisms, evolution, and consequences of animal behavior, including how genes and environment affect behavior, learning and animal consciousness, role of hormones, predator-prey interactions, visual and auditory communication, courtship/mate choice, and human social behavior. Includes lectures, experimental labs, and student project.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2201 : BIO:How Microbes Rule World

Overview of microbiology, illustrating the roles of bacteria, viruses, fungi, algae and protozoa in our food, environment, and health. Lectures and labs cover microbe classification, control of microbial growth, roles of microorganisms in agriculture, ecology and industry, and principles of disease and host defenses.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2202 : BIO:Biology and Politics

Examination of importance of science and technology in contemporary political issues such as alternative energy, global climate change and evolution. Scientific method and biological principles important in objective, evidence-based explanations examined through lectures, guest speakers, debates, and laboratory exercises.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2203 : BIO:Heredity & Human Affairs

Overview of genetic topics and their social/ethical impacts, including genetic engineering, assisted reproduction, artificial wombs, Human Genome Project, cloning, fetal stem cells, gene therapy, and chromosomal abnormalities and disorders. Includes lectures, field trips, labs, discussions and student presentations.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2204 : How The Body Works

Principles and mechanisms underlying how the human body functions, with emphasis on physical fitness. Includes lectures, discussions, and labs.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2205 : BIO:Biodiversity& Conservation

Examination of challenge of balancing needs of an ever-growing human population while maintaining a healthy environment. Covers importance of biodiversity to both humans and proper functioning of earth, and discusses methods of effective conservation. Includes lectures, discussion sessions, and lab/field exercises.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2206 : BIO:Biotechnology in Our Soc.

Overview of revolutionary role of biotechnology in our society, including manipulation and analysis of DNA, transfer of genetic information, and use of computers in bioinformatics. Lectures and laboratory include recombinant DNA technology, gel electrophoresis, forensic DNA typing, problem solving, and socio-political-ethical issues.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2207 : BIO:Organisms in Changing Envr

Exploration of effect of environmental factors (temperature, precipitation, ocean currents, humidity, wind) on physiology, distribution, and interactions of organisms in different ecosystems, as well as the longer term effects of climate change on biodiversity. Includes lectures, discussion sessions, labs, and a group project.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2208 : BIO:Cancer Chronicles

Overview of cancer, including its causes and how it is studied, evaluated, and treated. With one half of men and a third of women developing cancer, also covers importance of cancer in both socioeconomic and health terms. Includes lectures and labs.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2209 : BIO:Challenges in Inf Diseases

Course examines global contemporary issues in infectious diseases, including epidemiology, microbiology, treatment and prevention. The biological as well as social, political and economic implications of emerging and re-emerging pathogens will be examined, including outbreaks and potential biological agents, vaccine safety and compliance, food safety concepts, and the global as well as domestic implications. The course is integrative and multidisciplinary, incorporating contributions from a wide range of specialities, including geography, history, mathematics/computer sciences and sociology. Lessons will be timely and driven by current infectious disease events, e.g., Ebola virus disease, Middle East Respiratory Virus Syndrome, seasonal and pandemic influenza, pertusis and measles, meningococcal disease and antibiotic resistance. Resources will include print and electronic media, in addition to the medical literature.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2210 : Drugs:How they Work,Caution!

How drugs work and why they should be taken with caution. Topics include: drug treatment of major illnesses; causes of drug toxicities/addiction; the actions of performance enhancing drugs; and influence of drugs on society.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2211 : BIO:Vaccines&Public Perception

Overview of vaccine science and pathogens, including how the history of vaccines, anti-vaccine movements, and social contexts play integral roles in public perception. Laboratory topics include an inquiry-based progression through vaccine design and student-designed public outreach campaigns to promote vaccination.

Credits

Credits 4

MSE 2212 : Genealogy - All In Your Family

Methods for constructing family trees from DNA tests, including student's own, and vital records. Biological basis of heredity; applications in evolution, behavior, and conservation. Interdisciplinary consideration of contexts concerning ancestry.

Credits

Credits 4