Biology
Dr. Antoine N. Nicolas
Chair of the Department
As the formal study of life, biology is at the crux of many spheres of our existence. Such domains of biology include our food and nutrition, our health, and the environments in which we live. Thus, a general knowledge of biology is useful and desirable for people of all walks of life, as well as those who require specialized knowledge for professions in any of the many subspecialties of biology.
In order to meet the educational needs of students in all majors, as well as biology majors, the Biology Department here at Manhattan College offers a variety of general courses for non-majors as well as more rigorous and specialized studies for our biology majors. To ensure a broad training, the curriculum for biology majors includes prescribed areas of required studies, plus some electives in advanced courses of cell and molecular biology, as well as organismal biology. In recognition that the best learning comes via doing, nearly all of our courses have associated, co-requisite, laboratory components. Many of these lab courses provide training in modern molecular biology techniques, while others provide fundamental training via anatomical, taxonomic, and ecological investigations. We also support off-campus studies that generally include class field trips to venues such as the American Museum of Natural History, the New York Botanical Gardens, and to the nearby, thousand-plus acre Van Cortland Park, a city park that preserves upland forests and wetlands. Our advanced research students present their findings at regional, national, and international meetings. Pre-professional students with interests in clinical studies generally "shadow" medical professionals in clinical settings.
Students preparing for professional school admission should consult the School of Science section of the catalog for requirements.
B.S. Degree
The B.S. degree is the preferred degree for students who wish to prepare for professional or graduate school. Students plan an individual program of study of their Biology courses and free electives after consultation with their assigned advisor in the Biology Department.
Required Courses for the B.S. Degree
BIOL 111 | General Biology I (Co-requisite BIOL 113) | 4 |
BIOL 113 | (Co-requisite BIOL 111) | 0 |
BIOL 112 | General Biology II (Co-requisite BIOL 114) | 4 |
BIOL 114 | (Co-requisite BIOL 112) | 0 |
BIOL 217 | Genetics (Co-requisite BIOL 218) | 4 |
BIOL 218 | (Co-requisite BIOL 217) | 0 |
BIOL 223 | Ecology (Co-requisite BIOL 220) | 4 |
BIOL 220 | (Co-requisite BIOL 223) | 0 |
BIOL 231 | Evolution (Co-requisite BIOL 232) | 4 |
BIOL 232 | (Co-requisite BIOL 231) | 0 |
BIOL 404 | Biology Colloquium I | 1 |
BIOL 414 | Biology Colloquium II | 1 |
Cell & Molecular Biology (choose any two 4-credit courses) | 8 | |
Microbiology (Co-requisite BIOL 226) | ||
BIOL 226 | (Co-requisite BIOL 225 ) | |
Developmental Biology (Co-requisite BIOL 335) | ||
BIOL 335 | (Co-requisite BIOL 302) | |
Cellular BioChemistry/Physiology (Co-requisite BIOL 323) | ||
BIOL 323 | (Co-requisite BIOL 319) | |
Molecular Cell Biology (Co-requisite BIOL 322) | ||
BIOL 322 | (Co-requisite BIOL 321) | |
Neurobiology (Co-requisite BIOL 407) | ||
BIOL 407 | (Co-requisite BIOL 405) | |
Immunology | ||
Organismal Biology (choose any two 4-credit courses) | 8 | |
Comparative Chordate Anatomy (Co-requisite BIOL 313) | ||
BIOL 313 | (Co-requisite BIOL 301) | |
Invertebrate Zoology | ||
Plant Biology (Co-requisite 303) | ||
BIOL 303 | (Co-requisite BIOL 305) | |
Animal Physiology (Co-requisite 324) | ||
BIOL 324 | (Co-requisite 320) | |
Animal Behavior (Co-requisite 327) | ||
BIOL 327 | (Co-requisite 326) | |
Marine Biology | ||
Freshwater Ecology | ||
Estuarine and Coastal Ecology | ||
Biology Electives (choose a combination of courses to total at least 4 credits) | 4 | |
Any 1 of Cell & Molecular or Organismal courses listed above | ||
Anatomy and Physiology I (Co-requisite BIOL 209) | ||
BIOL 209 | (Co-requisite BIOL 207) | |
Anatomy and Physiology II (Co-requisite BIOL 210) | ||
BIOL 210 | (Co-requisite BIOL 208) | |
Advances in Nutrition | ||
Research in Biology for Juniors | ||
Research in Biology for Juniors | ||
Research in Biology for Juniors | ||
Independent Study in Biology for Juniors | ||
Internship for Juniors | ||
Research in Biology | ||
Special Topics: in Biology (May fulfill molecular or organismal requirement) | ||
Research in Biology for Seniors | ||
Research in Biology for Seniors | ||
Research in Biology for Seniors | ||
Independent Study in Biology | ||
Internship for Seniors | ||
Total Credits | 42 |
Cognate Requirements for the B.S. Degree
CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I (Co-requisite CHEM 103) | 3 |
CHEM 103 | General Chemistry Laboratory I (Co-requisite CHEM 101) | 1 |
CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II (Co-requisite CHEM 104) | 3 |
CHEM 104 | General Chemistry Laboratory II (Co-requisite CHEM 102) | 1 |
CHEM 319 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 |
CHEM 323 | Organic Chemistry Laboratory I (Co-requisite CHEM 319) | 2 |
CHEM 320 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 |
CHEM 324 | Organic Chemistry Laboratory II (Co-requisite CHEM 320) | 2 |
Calculus I | 3 | |
Calculus for the Life Sciences I | ||
or MATH 185 | Calculus I | |
Calculus II | 3 | |
Calculus for the Life Sciences II | ||
or MATH 186 | Calculus II | |
Physics I | 4 | |
Introduction to Physics I and | ||
or | ||
Physics I and Physics I Lab | ||
Physics II | 4 | |
Introduction to Physics II and | ||
or | ||
Physics II and Physics II Lab | ||
Total Credits | 32 |
B.A. Degree
Recognizing that many students have a distinct interest in Biology, yet possess diverse career goals, the Department offers the B.A. degree with a relatively large number of electives. Students should use these electives to either minor or concentrate in any of the humanities, social science or business disciplines. This program is not recommended for students wishing to go on to medical/professional school, graduate studies in Biology, or physical therapy programs unless other prerequisites are met. The B.A. program is intended to help students obtain employment in medical and pharmaceutical sales, medical writing, careers in public health and safety and the insurance industry as it relates to health care.
Required Courses for the B.A. Degree
BIOL 111 | General Biology I (Co-requisite BIOL 113) | 4 |
BIOL 113 | (Co-requisite BIOL 111) | 0 |
BIOL 112 | General Biology II (Co-requisite BIOL 114) | 4 |
BIOL 114 | (Co-requisite BIOL 114) | 0 |
BIOL 217 | Genetics (Co-requisite BIOL 218) | 4 |
BIOL 218 | (Co-requisite BIOL 217) | 0 |
BIOL 223 | Ecology (Co-requisite BIOL 220) | 4 |
BIOL 220 | (Co-requisite BIOL 223) | 0 |
BIOL 231 | Evolution (Co-requisite BIOL 232) | 4 |
BIOL 232 | (Co-requisite BIOL 231) | 0 |
BIOL 404 | Biology Colloquium I | 1 |
BIOL 414 | Biology Colloquium II | 1 |
Biology Electives (choose a combination of courses from the list below to total at least 14 credits.) | 14 | |
Total Credits | 36 |
Biology Electives for the B.A. with Their Co-Requisite Labs1 (choose a combination to total at least 14 credits)
BIOL 207 | Anatomy and Physiology I (Co-requisite BIOL 209) | 4 |
BIOL 209 | (Co-requisite BIOL 207) | 0 |
BIOL 208 | Anatomy and Physiology II (Co-requisite BIOL 210) | 4 |
BIOL 210 | (Co-requisite BIOL 208) | 0 |
BIOL 225 | Microbiology (Co-requisite BIOL 226) | 4 |
BIOL 226 | (Co-requisite BIOL 225) | 0 |
BIOL 301 | Comparative Chordate Anatomy (Co-requisite BIOL 313) | 4 |
BIOL 313 | (Co-requisite BIOL 301) | 0 |
BIOL 302 | Developmental Biology (Co-requisite BIOL 335) | 4 |
BIOL 335 | (Co-requisite BIOL 302) | 0 |
BIOL 304 | Invertebrate Zoology | 4 |
BIOL 305 | Plant Biology (Co-requisite BIOL 303) | 4 |
BIOL 303 | (Co-requisite BIOL 305) | 0 |
BIOL 318 | Advances in Nutrition | 2 |
BIOL 319 | Cellular BioChemistry/Physiology (Co-requisite BIOL 323) | 4 |
BIOL 323 | (Co-requisite BIOL 319) | 0 |
BIOL 320 | Animal Physiology (Co-requisite BIOL 324) | 4 |
BIOL 324 | (Co-requisite BIOL 320) | 0 |
BIOL 321 | Molecular Cell Biology (Co-requisite BIOL 322) | 4 |
BIOL 322 | (Co-requisite BIOL 321) | 0 |
BIOL 326 | Animal Behavior (Co-requisite BIOL 327) | 4 |
BIOL 327 | (Co-requisite BIOL 326) | 0 |
BIOL 405 | Neurobiology (Co-requisite BIOL 407) | 4 |
BIOL 407 | (Co-requisite BIOL 405) | 0 |
BIOL 409 | Marine Biology | 4 |
BIOL 426 | Immunology | 4 |
BIOL 431 | Freshwater Ecology | 4 |
BIOL 432 | Estuarine and Coastal Ecology | 4 |
BIOL 441 | Cardiovascular Biology | 3 |
BIOL 310 | Research in Biology for Juniors | 2 |
BIOL 311 | Research in Biology for Juniors | 2 |
BIOL 317 | Research in Biology for Juniors | 3 |
BIOL 360 | Independent Study in Biology for Juniors | 2 |
BIOL 375 | Internship for Juniors | 2 |
BIOL 400 | Research in Biology | 1 |
BIOL 406 | Special Topics: in Biology | 4 |
BIOL 410 | Research in Biology for Seniors | 2 |
BIOL 411 | Research in Biology for Seniors | 2 |
BIOL 413 | Research in Biology for Seniors | 3 |
BIOL 460 | Independent Study in Biology | 1-3 |
BIOL 475 | Internship for Seniors | 3 |
- 1
A student may take 9 Biology credits in Research and/or Independent Study. However, a maximum of 3 credits may be in Independent Study.
Cognate Requirements for the B.A. Degree
CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I (Co-requisite CHEM 103) | 3 |
CHEM 103 | General Chemistry Laboratory I (Co-requisite CHEM 101) | 1 |
CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II (Co-requisite CHEM 104) | 3 |
CHEM 104 | General Chemistry Laboratory II (Co-requisite CHEM 102) | 1 |
CHEM 319 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 |
CHEM 320 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 |
MATH 100 | Pre-Calculus Mathematics | 3 |
MATH 230 | Elementary Statistics | 3 |
Physics I | 4 | |
Introduction to Physics I and | ||
or | ||
Physics I and Physics I Lab | ||
Physics II | 4 | |
Introduction to Physics II and | ||
or | ||
Physics II and Physics II Lab | ||
Total Credits | 28 |
Minors
A minor requires 15 credits in Biology courses planned in consultation with and approval of the Chair of the Biology Department. Eight of these credits must be the General Biology sequence (BIOL 111-114). The remaining credits must be chosen from courses that satisfy B.S. major requirements.
Grade Requirements
Majors and minors must attain a minimum grade of C in all biology courses. Prerequisites for upper level Biology courses: C or better in General Biology I (BIOL 111 and BIOL 113) and C or better in General Biology II (BIOL 112 and BIOL 114) or the equivalents are required.
Registration for Advanced Courses
Permission of the academic advisor of the Biology Department is required for registration in all courses at the 300 and 400 levels.
Courses for Non-Biology Majors
The following courses are offered for and are restricted to students majoring in departments other than Biology.
BIOL 103 | Introduction to Biology | 3 |
BIOL 131 | Principles of Biology I (Co-requisite BIOL 133) | 4 |
BIOL 133 | (Co-requisite BIOL 131) | 0 |
BIOL 132 | Principles of Biology II (Co-requisite BIOL 134) | 4 |
BIOL 134 | (Co-requisite BIOL 132) | 0 |
BIOL 221 | Introductory Nutrition | 3 |
BIOL 222 | Biology for Engineers | 3 |
BIOL 441 | Cardiovascular Biology | 3 |
PLANS OF STUDY
Bachelor of Science in Biology
First Year | |||
---|---|---|---|
Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
BIOL 111 | 4 | BIOL 112 | 4 |
BIOL 113 | 0 | BIOL 114 | 0 |
CHEM 101 | 3 | CHEM 102 | 3 |
CHEM 103 | 1 | CHEM 104 | 1 |
MATH 155 or 185 | 3 | MATH 156 or 186 | 3 |
SCI 100 | 1 | SCI 101 | 1 |
ENGL 110 | 3 | RELS 110 | 3 |
15 | 15 | ||
Second Year | |||
Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
BIOL 231 | 4 | BIOL 217 | 4 |
BIOL 232 | 0 | BIOL 218 | 0 |
BIOL 223 | 4 | CHEM 320 | 3 |
BIOL 220 | 0 | CHEM 324 | 2 |
CHEM 319 | 3 | Social Sciences | 3 |
CHEM 323 | 2 | Elective | 3 |
Modern Language | 3 | Modern Language | 3 |
16 | 18 | ||
Third Year | |||
Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
BIOL Molecular Elective | 4 | BIOL Organismal Elective | 4 |
PHYS 107 (& PHYS 197) | 4 | PHYS 108 (& PHYS 198) | 4 |
HIST 150 | 3 | PHIL 150 | 3 |
ENGL 150 | 3 | MUSC 150 or ART 150 | 3 |
RELS Catholic Studies | 3 | CMPT 155 | 3 |
17 | 17 | ||
Fourth Year | |||
Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
BIOL 404 | 1 | BIOL 414 | 1 |
BIOL Organismal Elective | 4 | BIOL Molecular Elective | 4 |
BIOL Elective | 2 | BIOL Elective | 2 |
RELS Global/Contemporary | 3 | PHIL 213 or 214 | 3 |
Social Sciences | 3 | Electives | 6 |
Elective | 3 | ||
16 | 16 | ||
Total Credits: 130 |
Bachelor of Arts in Biology
First Year | |||
---|---|---|---|
Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
BIOL 111 | 4 | BIOL 112 | 4 |
BIOL 113 | BIOL 114 | ||
CHEM 101 | 3 | CHEM 102 | 3 |
CHEM 103 | 1 | CHEM 104 | 1 |
SCI 100 | 1 | SCI 101 | 1 |
ENGL 110 | 3 | RELS 110 | 3 |
Modern Language | 3 | Modern Language | 3 |
15 | 15 | ||
Second Year | |||
Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
BIOL 231 | 4 | BIOL 217 | 4 |
BIOL 232 | 0 | BIOL 218 | 0 |
BIOL 223 | 4 | MATH 230 | 3 |
BIOL 220 | 0 | CHEM 320 | 3 |
CHEM 319 | 3 | HIST 150 | 3 |
MATH 100 | 3 | Social Sciences | 3 |
CMPT 155 | 3 | ||
17 | 16 | ||
Third Year | |||
Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
BIOL Elective | 4 | BIOL Elective | 4 |
PHYS 107 (& PHYS 197) | 4 | PHYS 108 (& PHYS 198) | 4 |
MUSC 150 or ART 150 | 3 | ENGL 150 | 3 |
Social Sciences | 3 | PHIL 150 | 3 |
Free Elective | 3 | Free Elective | 3 |
17 | 17 | ||
Fourth Year | |||
Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
BIOL 404 | 1 | BIOL 414 | 1 |
BIOL Elective | 4 | BIOL Elective | 2 |
RELS Catholic Studies | 3 | RELS Global/Contemporary | 3 |
Free Electives | 8 | PHIL 213 or 214 | 3 |
Free Electives | 8 | ||
16 | 17 | ||
Total Credits: 130 |
Courses
BIOL 092. Biology Elective. 3 Credits.
BIOL 099. Biology Bridge Course. 0 Credits.
This is a Pre-Freshman Biology course designed to introduce students to the nature of modern biology as it is taught at Manhattan College and to prepare them to be successful in General Biology. Using a combination of classroom techniques, including interactive lectures, problem-solving and facilitated discussions, this course focuses on selected topics that are normally covered in the General Biology majors courses. In addition, this course seeks to develop transferable skills that incorporate successful strategies for the deep learning and application of modern Biology, such as critical thinking and reading, effective note-taking, and exam preparation.
BIOL 103. Introduction to Biology. 3 Credits.
A basic study of the principles and applications of biology in contemporary life. Two lectures and one two-hour laboratory period.
BIOL 111. General Biology I. 4 Credits.
An exploration of the central concepts of cell biology, cell physiology, molecular biology, genetics, and evolution. Three 1-hr lectures. The General Biology sequence (BIOL 111-BIOL 114) is required for those majoring in Biology or Pre-Med. Offered alternating semesters. Co-requisite: BIOL 113. Offered Fall/Spring.
BIOL 112. General Biology II. 4 Credits.
An exploration of the central concepts of evolution, biodiversity, organismal anatomy and physiology, and ecology. Three 1-hr lectures. The General Biology sequence (BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114) is required for those majoring in Biology or Pre-Med. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in BIOL 111.
Pre-requisites: BIOL 111 and BIOL 113. Co-requisite: BIOL 114.
Offered Fall/Spring.
BIOL 119. General Biology II. 2 Credits.
An exploration of the central concepts of evolution, biodiversity, organismal anatomy and physiology, and ecology. Three 1-hr lectures. The General Biology sequence (BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114) is required for those majoring in Biology or Pre-Med. This course is restricted only to students who wish to repeat BIOL 112 to fulfill the credit requirement under the previous course catalog. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in BIOL 111 and BIOL 113. Co-requisite: BIOL 114. Offered: Fall/Spring.
BIOL 120. General Biology II Laboratory. 2 Credits.
An exploration of the central concepts of evolution, biodiversity, organismal anatomy and physiology, and ecology. One 3-hr laboratory. The General Biology sequence (BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114) is required for those majoring in Biology or Pre-Med. This course is restricted only to students who wish to repeat BIOL 112 to fulfill the credit requirement under the previous course catalog. Prerequisite: Grade C or better in BIOL 111 & BIOL 113. Co-requisite: BIOL 112. Offered: Fall/Spring.
BIOL 121. General Biology I Honors. 4 Credits.
General Biology I is a foundation-level course that is a prerequisite for a second-level course, General Biology II. Although the topics covered in this course are similar to BIOL 111, students will examine them in greater depth. Offered: Fall. Co-requisite: BIOL 123.
BIOL 122. General Biology II Honors. 4 Credits.
General Biology II Honors is a second semester sequence of BIOL 121. It is a foundation-level course that examines the relationship between organisms. Although the topics covered in this course are similar to BIOL 112, students will examine them in greater depth. Offered: Spring semester. Pre-requisite: Grade of B or better in BIOL 121. Co-requisite: BIOL 124.
BIOL 123. General Biology I Laboratory Honors. 0 Credits.
An exploration of the central concepts of cell biology, cell physiology, molecular biology, genetics, and evolution. One 3-hr laboratory. The topics covered in this course are similar to BIOL 113, but in BIOL 123 students will examine them in greater depth. Offered: Fall. Co-requisite: BIOL 121.
BIOL 124. General Biology II Lab Honors. 0 Credits.
An exploration of the relationship between organisms. One 3-hr laboratory. The topics covered in this course are similar to BIOL 114. In BIOL 124, students will examine them in greater depth. Offered: Spring.
BIOL 125. General Biology I. 2 Credits.
An exploration of the central concepts of cell biology, cell physiology, molecular biology, genetics, and evolution. Three 1-hr lectures. The General Biology sequence (BIOL 111-BIOL 114) is required for those majoring in Biology or Pre-Med. This course is restricted only to students who wish to repeat BIOL 111 to fulfill the credit requirement under the previous course catalog.Offered alternating semesters. Co-requisite: BIOL 126.
BIOL 126. General Biology I Laboratory. 2 Credits.
An exploration of the central concepts of cell biology, cell physiology, molecular biology, genetics, and evolution. One 3-hr laboratory. The General Biology sequence (BIOL 111-BIOL 114) is required for those majoring in Biology or Pre-Med.This course is restricted only to students who wish to repeat BIOL 113 to fulfill the credit requirement under the previous course catalog. Offered alternating semesters. Co-requisite: BIOL 125.
BIOL 131. Principles of Biology I. 4 Credits.
An introduction to the basic principles and concepts of cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, and evolution with emphasis on human biology. Three one-hour lectures per week with a three-hour, co-requisite lab (BIOL 133). The Principles of Biology sequence (BIOL 131-134)* is intended for those not majoring in Biology or Pre-Med. Offered alternating semesters. Co-requisite lab: BIOL 133.
*The BIOL 131-134 sequence replaces the closed BIOL 115-118 sequence.
BIOL 132. Principles of Biology II. 4 Credits.
This is part two of our introduction to the basic principles and concepts of cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, and evolution with emphasis on human biology. Three one-hour lectures per week with a three-hour, co-requisite lab (BIOL 134). The Principles of Biology sequence (BIOL 131-134)* is intended for those not majoring in Biology or Pre-Med. Offered alternating semesters. Co-requisite lab: BIOL 134.
*The BIOL 131-134 sequence replaces the closed BIOL 115-118 sequence. Prerequisite: BIOL 131.
BIOL 207. Anatomy and Physiology I. 4 Credits.
Structure and functions of the organs and systems of the human body with expanded coverage of topics such as mechanisms of disease. Topics include: biology of the cell, histology, and skeletal, muscular & nervous systems. Two 1-hr lectures and one 3-hr laboratory. Offered alternating semesters. Biology majors in the Education studies and Pre-Physical Therapy studies may take this course for Biology credit.
BIOL 208. Anatomy and Physiology II. 4 Credits.
Structure and functions of the organs and systems of the human body with expanded coverage of topics such as mechanisms of disease. Topics include: digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, reproductive and endocrine systems. Three 1-hr lectures. Offered alternating semesters. Biology majors in the Education studies and Pre-Physical Therapy studies may take this course for Biology credit. Prerequisites: BIOL 207 and BIOL 209.
BIOL 217. Genetics. 4 Credits.
Genetics explores basic facts to major principles of chromosomal, molecular, quantitative, population, and evolutionary genetics. Pre-requisites are General Biology I (BIOL 111 or 121) and General Biology II (BIOL 112 or 122) with grades of C or better. Co-requisite: BIOL 218. Offered: Spring.
BIOL 221. Introductory Nutrition. 3 Credits.
A survey of human nutritional needs throughout the life cycle. Recommended for Nursing, Physical Education, and Liberal Arts majors. Three lectures. Fall, Spring.
BIOL 222. Biology for Engineers. 3 Credits.
The general principles of modern science and biology, with focus on engineering solutions to biological problems, including pollution, bio-remediation, genetic engineering and risk assessment. Two one-hour lectures and one two-hour lab per week.
BIOL 223. Ecology. 4 Credits.
Introduction to the study of the distribution and abundance of organisms. Survey of ecological principles at the level of individuals, populations, communities, and ecosystems with emphasis on quantitative analysis. Three 1-hr lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: BIOL 111 and BIOL 112 or BIOL 121 and BIOL 122 or consent of the instructor. Co-requisite: BIOL 220. Fall.
BIOL 225. Microbiology. 4 Credits.
Introduction to microbial physiology, genetics, and ecology with an emphasis on the role of microbes in the environment and infectious disease. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period per week. Co-requisite: BIOL 226. Prerequisite: C or better in General Biology I (BIOL 111 or 121) and C or better in General Biology II (BIOL 113 or 122).
BIOL 231. Evolution. 4 Credits.
Evolution is an introduction to the central organizing theme in biology. The course examines the basic mechanisms for evolution at various scales, ranging from molecular to ecological levels. Major topics include evolutionary genetics, microevolution, speciation, macroevolution, and evolutionary medicine. It consists of weekly three one-hour lectures and one three-hour lab, the co-requisite BIOL 232. Pre-requisites are General Biology I (BIOL 111 or 121) and General Biology II (BIOL 112 or 122) with grades of C or better. Fall Semester.
BIOL 301. Comparative Chordate Anatomy. 4 Credits.
An anatomical survey of chordate evolution, with an emphasis on human anatomy, where homologous structures are examined in diverse chordate organisms. Form, function, and phylogeny are explored from worm-like chordates and sharks to dinosaurs, birds, as well as humans and other mammals. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, or BIOL 121 or BIOL 122 or consent of the instructor. Co-requisite: BIOL 313.
BIOL 302. Developmental Biology. 4 Credits.
A study of the cellular and molecular processes underlying the development of various organisms. Emphasis will be placed on fertilization events, spatial organization, pattern formation and gene action in development. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr hour laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 304. Invertebrate Zoology. 4 Credits.
Morphological and physiological characteristics of selected invertebrates and consideration of their ecological relationships. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, and BIOL 223 or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 305. Plant Biology. 4 Credits.
Physiological, biochemical and anatomical aspects of plants will be studied in the context of their native environments. The molecular, hormonal and physiological basis for plant adaptations will be stressed. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, or consent of the instructor. Co-requisite: BIOL 303.
BIOL 310. Research in Biology for Juniors. 2 Credits.
Investigation of challenging problems. Four hours/credit per week including a conference with sponsor. Results may lead to an off-campus presentation. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Pre-requisite: Junior Status, BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114.
BIOL 311. Research in Biology for Juniors. 2 Credits.
Investigation of challenging problems. Four hours/credit per week including a conference with sponsor. Results may lead to an off-campus presentation. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Pre-requisite: Junior Status, BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114.
BIOL 312. Advanced Biology for Biochemists. 3 Credits.
In-depth analysis of molecules directing cellular structure. Emphasis will be placed on the molecular mechanisms of cellular function and interactions. Topics will include: organelle structure/function, intra- and intercellular signaling, and cell cycle control. Three lecture hours. Prerequisite BIOL 217 and CHEM 323.
BIOL 317. Research in Biology for Juniors. 3 Credits.
Investigation of challenging problems. Four hours per credit per week including a conference with sponsor. Results may lead to an off-campus presentation. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Offered: Fall and Spring.
BIOL 318. Advances in Nutrition. 2 Credits.
Recent developments in human nutrition with emphasis on clinical conditions. Recommended for upper-class pre-health professional students. One lecture hour and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 319. Cellular BioChemistry/Physiology. 4 Credits.
Dynamic aspects of the physiology and biochemistry of the cell, including thermodynamics, oxidation/reduction, respiration, enzymes, membranes, cell signaling and metabolic pathways. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, or BIOL 121, BIOL 122 and BIOL 217 and CHEM 319, or consent of the instructor. Co-requisite: BIOL 323.
BIOL 320. Animal Physiology. 4 Credits.
Discovery of the major principles of animal (especially humans) functions. Topics include (1) procurement and use of energy, (2) growth, (3) internal organ functions, reproduction, and adaptations to diverse environments. Emphasis is placed on tissue, organ and organism functions. Various taxa will be examined in lab, especially humans. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, or consent of the instructor. Co-requisite: BIOL 324.
BIOL 321. Molecular Cell Biology. 4 Credits.
In-depth analysis of molecules directing cellular structure. Emphasis will be placed on the molecular mechanisms of cellular function and interactions. Topics will include: organelle structure/function, intra- and intercellular signaling, and cell cycle control. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 217 or CHEM 433, or consent of instructor. Co-requisite: BIOL 322.
BIOL 326. Animal Behavior. 4 Credits.
The biological basis of animal behavior from an ecological and evolutionary perspective. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory or field work period.
BIOL 360. Independent Study in Biology for Juniors. 2 Credits.
Independent study of an area in biology. Up to ten hours per week, including a conference with sponsor, plus a final paper are required. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Pre-requisite: Junior Status, BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 375. Internship for Juniors. 2 Credits.
Students participate in an off-campus training experience closely related to one of the areas of biology. Frequent meetings with the advisor plus a paper are required. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Pre-requisite: Junior Status, 3.0 GPA, and permission of the student's advisor and the chair.
BIOL 400. Research in Biology. 1 Credit.
I Investigation of challenging problems. Four hours/credit per week including a conference with sponsor. Results may lead to an off-campus presentation. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Offered: Fall and Spring
Prerequisites: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114.
BIOL 404. Biology Colloquium I. 1 Credit.
This course is the first half of the Biology majors capstone in which students will eventually present a full-length document on a biological subject, that will either be a review paper or a research paper. Training in reading and comprehension of scientific papers, understanding statistical analysis issues, constructing a reference section, writing for science and power-point construction issues. Four weeks of journal club sessions. Proposal preparation for a monograph. One discussion period. Offered: Fall.
BIOL 405. Neurobiology. 4 Credits.
An examination of the basic principles of the nervous system including the cellular and molecular biology of the neuron, synaptic transmission, sensory and motor systems and their integration. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 217 or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 406. Special Topics: in Biology. 4 Credits.
Current problems and studies in biology. Consult department chair for topic. Four lecture hours OR three lecture hours and one 3-hr laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 408. Sustainable Agriculture. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on crop management, conservation agriculture, depletion of resources, and global challenges caused by climate change. Prerequisites are
CHEM 101, BIOL 111,112,113,114. Offered in Fall semester.
BIOL 409. Marine Biology. 4 Credits.
Principles of marine ecology in an oceanic environment with emphasis on tropical communities. Three lecture hours per week are held on campus, but the field portion of the course is taught during the mid-semester recess in the Caribbean. Students in this course will be charged an additional lab fee to cover the transportation, room & board, and activities costs associated with the field trip. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, and BIOL 223 or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 410. Research in Biology for Seniors. 2 Credits.
Investigation of challenging problems. Four hours/credit per week including a conference with sponsor. Results should ordinarily lead to an off-campus presentation. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance.
Offered: Fall.
BIOL 411. Research in Biology for Seniors. 2 Credits.
Investigation of challenging problems. Four hours/credit per week including a conference with sponsor. Results should ordinarily lead to an off-campus presentation. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance.
Offered: Spring. Prerequisites: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114.
BIOL 413. Research in Biology for Seniors. 3 Credits.
Investigation of challenging problems. Five hours/credit per week including a conference with sponsor. Results should ordinarily lead to an off-campus presentation. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Offered: Fall and Spring.
BIOL 414. Biology Colloquium II. 1 Credit.
This course is the second part of the Biology majors capstone course. Study and discussion of biological topics, exposure to various presentation styles by external speakers, sitting in for the Biology major field test, completion and presentation of a monograph. One discussion period. Offered: Spring. Prerequisite: BIOL 404.
BIOL 426. Immunology. 4 Credits.
Study of fundamental properties of antigens and antibodies. Theories of antibody production, tolerance, transplantation immunity, autoimmunity, tumor immunology, and immunochemistry. Introduction to antibody-mediated and cell-mediated reactions. Four lecture hours. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, BIOL 217, BIOL 321, and BIOL 322.
BIOL 431. Freshwater Ecology. 4 Credits.
Study of the ecology of freshwater communities, including physical, chemical, and biotic components with emphasis on a comparison of major freshwater systems. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr field or laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, and BIOL 223 or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 432. Estuarine and Coastal Ecology. 4 Credits.
Studies of estuarine and near-shore marine ecosystems with emphasis on local temperate habitats. Three lecture hours and one 3-hr field or laboratory period. Pre-requisite: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, and BIOL 223 or consent of the instructor.
BIOL 441. Cardiovascular Biology. 3 Credits.
Anatomical, physiological, pathological and nutritional aspects of the human cardiovascular system. Three lectures and a monograph based on library research or supervised laboratory experience at a hospital cardiac stress testing laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 207 and BIOL 208.
BIOL 460. Independent Study in Biology. 1-3 Credit.
Independent Study in Biology. Independent study of an area in biology. Ten hours per week including a conference with sponsor. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Fall, Spring.
BIOL 475. Internship for Seniors. 3 Credits.
Students participate in an off-campus training experience closely related to their area of biology. Frequent meetings with the advisor plus a paper are required. Sponsorship by a faculty member of the Biology Department must be obtained in advance. Prerequisites: Senior status, 3.0 GPA, and permission of the student's advisor or the Chair.