Courses

BIOL 101G. Life on Earth 1.0 course credit

This course explores the many ways fundamental principles of biology impact our lives. We explore newsworthy issues in genetics, evolution, human physiology (health), and environmental science while illustrating the process of science. Typical questions we might ask: are GMOs good or bad; can and should we genetically modify humans; why is heart disease the number one killer of humans; what is cancer and what can we do about it; how does our reproductive biology inform the abortion debate; why should I care about endangered species; why is global warming a big deal?

BIOL 109G. Plants and Society 1.0 course credit

This non-majors Gen Ed course will introduce students to the multitude of ways humans interact with plants. These interactions are fundamental to culture and society. Topics will include the origins of agriculture, manipulation of plants by people, plant secondary compounds as sources of spices, medicines and drugs, and genetic engineering of plants. To understand these topics, a basic background in genetics, ecology, and evolution will be covered throughout the semester. Additionally, students will be introduced to important elements of botany, chemistry, anthropology, archaeology, and history.

BIOL 150G. Investigating Biological Concepts 1.0 course credit

An investigative approach to learning fundamental concepts in biology from molecules to cells to organisms. Concepts include: the process of scientific inquiry, basic biochemistry, and basic cell function (cellular respiration, photosynthesis, protein synthesis, genetics, cell division). Labs will emphasize problem-based or inquiry-based learning. Lectures will combine traditional format with problem-posing and questioning.

BIOL 155. Introduction to Evolution, Ecology and Diversity 1.0 course credit

An investigative approach to learning fundamental concepts in biology from organisms to ecosystems. Concepts will include: the process of scientific inquiry, mechanisms of evolution, the evolutionary history of biological diversity, and fundamentals of ecology. Labs will emphasize problem-based or inquiry-based learning. Lectures will combine traditional format with problem-posing and questioning.

BIOL 200. Cell Biology 1.0 course credit

Introductory study of the structure and function of living cells and their components. Laboratory will employ basic cell/molecular biology techniques and include: the preparation of reagents, DNA isolation, plasmid manipulation and DNA transfection. Students will have the opportunity to apply current recombinant in vitro DNA technology in preparation and expression of a transgene using a prokaryotic system. Prerequisites: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 150 or 155 and CHEM 140.

BIOL 201G. Field Botany 1.0 course credit

A study of plant associations and the abiotic conditions that permit their development. The laboratory time is devoted to field trips to various types of plant habitats.

BIOL 202. Genetics 1.0 course credit

An introduction to the principles of heredity in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
Laboratory centers around an open-ended investigation into a biological problem using tools of classical and molecular genetic analysis. Prerequisites: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 150 or 155 or permission of the instructor.

BIOL 204. Human Anatomy and Physiology 1.0 course credit

A systematic analysis of the structure and function of the human body. Prerequisite: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 150 or permission of the instructor.
BIOL 210. Biological Research Methods 1.0 course credit
An introduction to research methods used in biological sciences including: 1) the literature search, reading and evaluating scientific literature, scientific writing, and incorporating previous literature into a proposal for research; 2) an introduction to commonly used statistical analyses focusing on an understanding of when specific common tests are appropriate and how to interpret them and utilize appropriate statistical software; 3) a very brief introduction to applications of mathematical modeling such as calculus to investigating biological problems. Prerequisite: A grade of C- or better in BIOL 150 and BIOL 155 or permission of the instructor.

BIOL 212. Plant Biology 1.0 course credit

This course employs lecture and laboratory components to provide a comprehensive introduction to major topics in fundamental plant biology. Fungi and their importance in embryophyte symbioses will also be considered. Our treatment of photosynthetic organisms and fungi will integrate spatial scales
moving from biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics through cell biology, physiology and development, to ecology. We will also consider systematics and the evolution of land plants. Prerequisites: C- or better in BIOL 150 and 155 (one course).

BIOL 300. Special Problems 0.25 to 1.0 course credit

A special course in a laboratory exercise, a field problem, or readings for the student who wishes to investigate a topic in biology beyond those normally offered. The particular problem is selected in consultation with the biology faculty.

BIOL 302. Microbiology 1.0 course credit

A general study of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi and protists), emphasizing
morphology, physiology, ecological relationships, and the nature of disease and its control. Consideration is also given to viruses. Laboratory sessions provide for
experimental demonstration of basic concepts and for familiarization with fundamental microbiological methods. Prerequisite: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 200.

BIOL 307. Ecology 1.0 course credit

An introduction to the principles and concepts that describe the interactions of living organisms with their environments. Laboratory sessions involve field study of local flora and fauna and their habitats with the aim of illustrating fundamental concepts and basic ecological methodology. Prerequisites: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 150 and 155. Prerequisite or co-requisite: MATH 207. Offered in alternate years.

BIOL 315. Conservation Biology 1.0 course credit

Advanced study of the science of conserving biological diversity. Lecture will focus on animal systematics, zoogeography, and conservation biology of animals (with reference to plants). Labs will emphasize identifying, collecting, and monitoring animal diversity in the field with a focus on conservation goals. Prerequisite A grade of C- or better in BIOL 155 and junior standing (or instructor’s consent). Offered in alternate years.

BIOL 320. Parasitology 1.0 course credit

A general study of the biology of parasitism. Lectures and labs will emphasize
systematics and taxonomy of the major groups, complex life cycles of parasites,
behavioral and physiological effects of parasites on hosts (including humans), and how human modifications of landscapes affect parasites. Prerequisite: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 150 and BIOL 155. Offered in alternate years.

BIOL 325. Advanced Anatomy and Physiology 1.0 course credit

Detailed study of human and comparative anatomy and physiology, emphasizing musculo-skeletal, cardiovascular, neural, endocrine, respiratory, renal, digestive, and reproductive systems. Advanced Anatomy and Physiology will build on fundamental knowledge acquired in BIOL 204. Laboratory exercises will be both descriptive and experimental. Prerequisite: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 204.

BIOL 333. Evolution 1.0 course credit

Evolution encompasses the synthesis of all of biology from molecules to ecology. In doing so, evolution addresses the fundamental paradox: the diversity of living organisms. This course offers an exploration of the processes of evolutionary change in animals, plants and microbes. Population genetics, microevolution, speciation, adaptive radiation, and macroevolution will be addressed. Also, the origin of Homo sapiens will be considered. Prerequisite: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 202. Offered in alternate years.

BIOL 345. Animal Behavior 1.0 course credit

(Cross-listed as PSYC 345) A study of the diverse and fascinating range of animal behavior. How do we explain that in various animals we can observe infanticide, competition, and polygamy, but also cooperation, altruism, and monogamy? Using an evolutionary approach, this course will examine both the proximate mechanisms and ultimate reasons that explain the great variety of animal behavior as elucidated by animal behaviorists through ingenious
experimentation and patient observation. Prerequisite: A grade of C− or better in PSYC 101 or BIOL 150 or 155. Offered in alternate years.

BIOL 350. Science Seminar 0.25 course credit

An introduction to the literature of the physical and biological sciences, providing the student with the opportunity to prepare and present reports. Speakers from outside the College are invited to speak each semester. May be repeated for credit. Credit/No Credit.

BIOL 354. Molecular Biology 1.0 course credit

An in-depth look at DNA, RNA, and proteins. Emphasis is placed on the structure and function of nucleic acids and on DNA-protein interactions. The control of such processes as DNA replication, gene expression, and protein translation in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic systems will be addressed. Prerequisite: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 200 or permission of the instructor.

BIOL 390. Internship in Biological Sciences 0.25 to 0.75 course credit

An experience designed to allow students to apply biological theory and concepts to practice in a work environment within the field of biology. Students are required to complete the following: a journal maintained during the work experience, an essay summarizing and integrating the internship experience with prior course work, and a public oral presentation.

BIOL 440. Research I 0.5 course credit

An individual research project chosen by the student in consultation with the biology faculty. Includes designing and executing a research project as well as keeping a detailed laboratory notebook. Prerequisite: A grade of C− or better in BIOL 210.

BIOL 450. Research II 0.5 course credit

Continuation of Research I. Students are expected to finish the research projects they began in BIOL 440. The main focus of this course will be analyzing and presenting research results in poster format and in a formal scientific paper. Students will be further required to serve as mentors to their peers enrolled in Research I. Prerequisite: BIOL 440.