UG Course Descriptions

A survey of vertebrate anatomy and physiology, placing vertebrate form and function within an evolutionary context. Beginning with fishes and ending with mammals, emphasis is placed on identification and description of key characteristics and evolutionary innovations of the vertebrate classes using a comparative approach. The laboratory involves making detailed comparisons among selected vertebrate types through observation, microscopy and dissection. (Prerequisites: BIOL233, CHE103; or permission of instructor) 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory

Developmental biology presents a classical and molecular analysis of our current understanding of embryonic development. A comparative approach is employed to demonstrate significant patterns in embryological development. Although vertebrate development is emphasized, other organisms are explored as time permits. Students conduct directed as well as independent research projects to explore the role of environmental agents on early embryonic development. (Prerequisites: BIOL234; or permission of instructor) 3 hours of lecture, 3 hours laboratory

Introduction to the microbial world with detailed study of bacteria: classification, morphology, physiology, and genetics, and the role of pathogens in human disease. Laboratory stresses aseptic handling and recognition of microorganisms, identification of unknown bacteria, and independent investigation. (Prerequisites: BIOL234; or permission of instructor) 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory

This course is intended to introduce students to the fundamental principles of physiological functions at the molecular and cellular levels, including the coordination of various tissues, organs and systems for the maintenance of homeostasis. (Prerequisites: BIOL234; or permission of instructor) 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory

A four-credit hour course with a laboratory component. It is intended to familiarize students with the perspectives, theories, and methods of the biological study of behavior. This course examines animal behavior from both a mechanistic and a functional perspective. The course will equip students to understand the variety, function, and evolution of animal behavior across a variety of species. We will examine the development, underlying neurology and physiology, adaptive function, and application of behavior to understanding feeding, habitat selection, communication, reproduction, parenting, etc. Current research advances will be stressed, including use of mathematical, statistical, and computer modeling approaches. Primary literature will be a focus of the reading assignments, supplemented by text material as deemed necessary. Students will be exposed to methods for the design, analysis and interpretation of behavioral experiments. (Prerequisites: BIOL 234; or permission of instructo

Student-oriented laboratory, field, and/or literature studies. Admission to the courses by application to the Biology faculty. (Pre-requisite: BIOL 352)

An emphasis on the continuum of biological understanding, starting with basic properties of genes and genomes and extending to the complex interactions fundamental to all living organisms. This course will provide students with a comprehensive picture of the many ways molecular genetics is being applied to the analysis of complex systems. Laboratory will focus on techniques for detecting and manipulating nucleic acids and proteins including molecular cloning, electrophoresis, restriction analysis, blotting, chromatography, and ELISA. (Prerequisites: BIOL234, or permission of the instructor; Pre/Co-requisite: CHE 211) 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory

Students meeting certain academic requirements are invited to conduct a research project under the supervision of a Biology faculty member. (Prerequisite: 16 credits in BIOL200 and/or 300 level courses including 1 or 2 preparatory credits in BIOL291 and permission of department)

Students meeting certain academic requirements are invited to conduct a research project under the supervision of a Biology faculty member. (Prerequisite: 16 credits in BIOL200 and/or 300 level courses including 1 or 2 preparatory credits in BIOL291 and permission of department)

Current topics dealing with ongoing facets of business administration