Courses

Courses in the introductory majors sequence (BIOL101, 102, 201, and 202) are open to Biology majors only, or by permission from the Department. Some courses are specifically designed to fulfill the core curriculum requirements for non-science majors and do not count toward the Biology major (e.g. BIOL100, 111, 123). BIOL170 and 170L are offered for Nursing and pre-allied health science students and may not be used as Biology electives. Other special interest classes for both majors and non-majors are offered periodically.

BIOL 100 Biological Concepts 3.00 credits
A one-semester course designed to investigate the process of science by focusing on current biological issues. Different subfields of biology will be explored depending on the instructor. This biology course does not have a lab. Designed for non-science majors. Fall or Spring, and Summer I.
 
BIOL 101 Diversity of Life 3.00 credits
This course provides a foundation in the fundamental principles of biology while introducing the unity and diversity of living things. The majority of the course explores the origins of and evolutionary relationships among the major groups of organisms. Enrollment is limited to science or nursing majors. Fall and Spring.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 101L
BIOL 101L Diversity of Life Lab 1.00 credit
An introduction to experimental techniques and scientific methods. Students learn how to approach scientific questions, make observations, record, analyze and report data. In addition, students are introduced to the diversity of bacteria, protists, fungi, plants, and animals. Taken concurrently with BIOL 101.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 101
BIOL 102 Introduction to Ecology 3.00 credits
An introduction to the interactions between organisms and their environments. Topics include responses of organisms to each other and their environments, the physiological ecology of individuals, population dynamics, community structures, and the movement of matter and energy through ecosystems. The impacts of human activities on these interactions will be considered throughout the course. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 101 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 102L
BIOL 102L Introduction to Ecology Lab 1.00 credit
Field and laboratory experiments and computer simulations are used to investigate ecological interactions in populations and communities. The communication of scientific results is also emphasized, including basic statistics, graphical presentation of data, and the preparation of a scientific paper. Taken concurrently with BIOL 102.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 102
BIOL 111 Natural History of Geo Area 4.00 credits
This course will introduce students to the dominant plant and animal components of the inland Northwest, as well as its major habits (mountain, desert, streams, and lakes). Emphasis will be placed on the relationships between organisms and their biological and physical environment. Learning activities will include formal laboratory investigations, examination of animals and plants, and short field trips to surrounding areas. Designed for non- science major. Spring
 
BIOL 123 Human Ecology 3.00 credits
A study of the principles of ecology (including population dynamics, diversity, and energy flow) and the impact humans have on the environment. Lab is required. Designed for non-science majors. Fall, Spring, and Summer II.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 123L
BIOL 123L Human Ecology Laboratory 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 123.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 123
BIOL 134 Science and Religion 3.00 credits
The relationship between science and religion throughout history. This course focuses on comparing science and religion as ways of knowing about the world. Designed for non-science majors. On sufficient demand.
 
BIOL 134H Science and Religion: Honors 3.00 credits
 
Prerequisite: HONS 190 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 140 Field Botany 3.00 credits
Course includes systematics of flowering plants, plant communities of the Inland Northwest, sight identification of major plant families and selected topics in plant ecology. A plant collection is required. Two four-hour lectures/lab meetings per week and three, ten-hour field trips on Saturdays. Designed for non-science majors. Summer I.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 140L
Equivalent: ENVS 104 - Successful completion
BIOL 140L Field Botany Lab 1.00 credit
See course description for BIOL 140. Taken concurrently with BIOL 140.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 140
Equivalent: ENVS 110L - OK if taken since Fall 2009
BIOL 159 Field Studies in Biodiversity 4.00 credits
This course uses a field experience as a backdrop to learn about evolutionary, ecological and biogeographical processes that determine the ranges and biodiversity of organisms. The course begins with class work on the Gonzaga campus and is followed by 2-3 weeks in the field, where at least two faculty members and local experts will mentor students. Field locations vary by semester and may include the Galapagos Islands, Belize, Africa, Costa Rica, or domestic locations. Students are responsible for keeping a field journal, conducting short research projects and cooperative learning. Satisfies lab science requirement for non-science majors. Summer.
 
BIOL 165 Biology of Disease 3.00 credits
This course investigates how medicines work. It covers various affected organ systems (e.g., immune, endocrine, reproductive), the scientific method, development of effective medicines/treatments, and the potential sex/race/ culture bias of experimental results from drug trails. Various diseases (e.g., AIDS, cancer, diabetes) and treatments will be covered in the course. Designed for non-science majors. On sufficient demand.
 
Equivalent: WGST 265 - OK if taken since Fall 2009
BIOL 170 Introduction to Microbiology 3.00 credits
An introduction to microbiology for students in the nursing program or other allied health professions who will not be majoring in Biology. The course includes basic cellular chemistry and genetics, as well as a survey of topics of clinical importance. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: (BIOL 101 Minimum Grade: D or TRAN GBIO Minimum Grade: T) and (CHEM 101 Minimum Grade: D or TRAN GCHM Minimum Grade: T or CHEM 105 Minimum Grade: D)
Concurrent: BIOL 170L
BIOL 170L Intro to Microbiology Lab 1.00 credit
An introduction to methods of microbial analysis including the culture, safe handling, and genetic analysis of microbes. Taken concurrently with BIOL 170.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 170
BIOL 199 Core Topics: 3.00 credits
Designed for non-science majors, this course fulfills the core laboratory science requirement. Lectures and laboratory sessions emphasize science as an inquiry based process. Selected topics will be offered each semester. Lab is required. Fall and/or Spring.
 
BIOL 199L Core Topics Lab: 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 199.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 199
BIOL 200 Case Studies in Env Science 4.00 credits
This course is designed to introduce students to scientific issues and concepts related to environmental problems. The course will consist of investigations of a number of specific cases of environmental impacts by humans, such as: chemical contamination of soils, air, or water; overexploitation of fisheries or other living resources; freshwater availability and quality; habitat conversion, fragmentation, and loss of biodiversity; invasive species; renewable and non-renewable energy sources; and the production and management of waste. Specific cases will vary from semester to semester, and will include examples of current local, regional and global relevance. Laboratory exercises will allow students to investigate the scientific principles important for understanding the cases, and will help students develop an appreciation for the strength and limitations of scientific knowledge in addressing environmental issues. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: (BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D or ENVS 102 Minimum Grade: D) and (BIOL 123 Minimum Grade: D or ENVS 103 Minimum Grade: D) and (BIOL 199 Minimum Grade: D or ENVS 199 Minimum Grade: D)
BIOL 201 Cellular Biology 3.00 credits
An examination of cell structure and function with an emphasis on cellular biochemistry.
 
Prerequisite: (CHEM 230 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 101 Minimum Grade: D)
Concurrent: BIOL 201L
BIOL 201L Cellular Biology Lab 1.00 credit
An introduction to methods of analysis of cell structure, composition and behavior. Taken concurrently with BIOL 201.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 201
BIOL 202 Genetics and Evolution 3.00 credits
A study of the mechanisms of heredity and evolution. Topics include Mendelian inheritance, molecular and population genetics, and current issues in evolutionary biology. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 201 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 202L
BIOL 202L Genetics and Evolution Lab 1.00 credit
Methods of genetic analysis and investigations of evolutionary mechanisms will be explored. Taken concurrently with BIOL 202.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 202
BIOL 222 Science for Teachers 3.00 credits
This course is designed for non-science majors in the pre-service education program. This course fulfills both the core laboratory science requirement and the 'life science with lab' requirement in the teacher certification program. This course incorporates the process of inquiry to understand basic biological concepts and science itself. Lab is required. Fall and/or Spring.
 
Prerequisite: EDTE 101 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 222L
BIOL 222L Science for Teachers Lab 1.00 credit
See BIOL 222 course description. Taken concurrently with BIOL 222.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 222
BIOL 290 Directed Readings 1.00 - 3.00 credits
Topic to be decided by faculty.
 
BIOL 302 GIEOP Outreach Mentoring 1.00 credit
Students will become involved in the outreach program to GU's K-12 partner schools on Indian reservations. Students will be specifically involved in tutoring/mentoring relationships with Native American students using e-mail, Blackboard, digital photography, letter writing, and occasional visits. Student involvement will be determined by dialog between the GIEOP Outreach Coordinator and teachers at partnering schools. May be repeated. A maximum of two credits can be applied to Biology electives. By permission.
 
BIOL 303 Population Ecology 3.00 credits
An in-depth look at the interactions that control the distribution and abundance of organisms at the population level. Topics such as life-history strategies, population dynamics, competition, predation, parasitism, and mutualism will be explored through the research literature, field observations, and computer simulations. Fall alternate years.
 
Prerequisite: (BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D)
BIOL 303L Population Ecology Laboratory 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 303.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 303
BIOL 304 Practice In Laboratory Teachng 1.00 credit
Students gain teaching experience by assisting laboratory instructors as a teaching assistant ('TA') in a laboratory course. Duties may include lab set-up, in-class mentoring, grading, and quiz preparation. May be repeated. A maximum of two credits may be applied to Biology electives. Usually limited to students who have earned an A or B in the lecture portion of the course for which the student is a candidate to TA the lab. By permission.
 
BIOL 305 Biological Data Analysis 4.00 credits
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 313 Animal Behavioral Ecology 3.00 credits
This course explores how behavioral processes affect ecological patterns. The behavioral adaptations of animals to their environment including the evolution of behavior, foraging, competition for resources, reproductive ecology, mating systems, parental care, and cooperative behavior. Fall or Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 313L
BIOL 313L Animal Behavior Ecology Lab 1.00 credit
See BIOL 313 for description. Taken concurrently with BIOL 313.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 313
BIOL 323 Conservation Biology 3.00 credits
This course covers the biological concepts important for the conservation of natural populations, communities, and ecosystems. Both theoretical and empirical studies will be applied to such topics as: the genetics and ecology of small populations, consequences of habitat fragmentation, the impact of introduced species, and the ecological value of biological diversity. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: (BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D or ENVS 102 Minimum Grade: D) and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 323L
Equivalent: ENVS 303 - OK if taken since Fall 2007
BIOL 323L Conservation Biology Lab 1.00 credit
This lab includes field trips. Taken concurrently with BIOL 323.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 323
Equivalent: ENVS 303L - OK if taken since Fall 2008
BIOL 330 Invertebrate Biology 4.00 credits
An examination of the major invertebrate phyla, including an overview of the structural and functional characteristics of each group. The evolutionary relationships between various invertebrate groups will also be examined. Emphasis will be placed on the interaction of marine species with their environment. Taught in a combined lecture/lab format. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 331 Parasitology 3.00 credits
Explores the medical, physiological, ecological, and historical effect of parasites. The course concentrates on human parasites and ranges from viruses and bacteria through helminthes and arthropods. Fall.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 331L
BIOL 331L Parasitiology Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 331
 
Concurrent: BIOL 331
BIOL 333 Community Ecology 3.00 credits
This course provides an introduction to the science of community ecology. The major processes that have created and are operating within communities will be explored, including species diversity, competition, predation, herbivory, island biogeography, and succession. Students will explore the theories and experimental evidence of these processes and conduct ecology projects. Fall alternate years.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 333L
BIOL 334 Advanced Evolutionary Biology 3.00 credits
A study of the mechanisms responsible for the diversity of life on earth. Topics covered include speciation, adaptation, systematics, extinction, natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, and gene flow. Examples are chosen from all types of organisms. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 335 Adv Genetics: 3.00 credits
An advanced study of genetics within the context of a selected topic in biology. Past topics have included an examination of human race and racism and the study of genomes. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 335L
BIOL 335L Adv Genetics Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 335.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 335
BIOL 337 Developmental Biology 3.00 credits
A study of the principles and mechanisms that underlie the development of plants and animals, using approaches that integrate cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, and evolution. Spring alternate years.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 337L
BIOL 337L Developmental Biology Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 337.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 337
BIOL 338 Histology 3.00 credits
A study of the microscopic structure of animal (mostly mammalian) tissues and organs. Topics include: histology, cytology, and microscopic anatomy as exemplified in animal tissue. Material will emphasize the relationship between structure and function in tissues and organs. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 338L
BIOL 338L Histology Lab 1.00 credit
Labs will combine the study of tissue structure using a collection of prepared slides, and the processing and sectioning of tissue samples. Lab assignments will include the production of personal digital atlases. Taken concurrently with BIOL 338.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 338
BIOL 340 Field Botany 3.00 credits
This class meets with and covers the same topics as BIOL 140 but is designed for biology majors. In addition to the topics and requirements listed for BIOL 140, biology majors are required to complete a field project in the area of plant systematics or plant ecology. Summer I.
 
Prerequisite: and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 340L
BIOL 340L Field Botany Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 340.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 340
BIOL 343 Plant Community Ecology 3.00 credits
This class meets with and covers the same topics as BIOL 333 (Community Ecology), but is designed for biology majors who need a plant ecology-focused course. Students will explore the theories and experimental evidence of community ecology and conduct ecology projects with a specific focus on plant processes. Fall alternate years.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 351 Advanced Cell Biology 3.00 credits
An advanced study of cell structure and function with an emphasis on selected topics in cell biology. Topics vary with instructor, but may include cell signaling, cell cycle, plant cells, and the cell biology of cancer. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 351L
BIOL 351L Advanced Cell Biology Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 351.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 351
BIOL 357 Princ of Wildlife Managment 3.00 credits
The ecology, theory, methods, and philosophy of wildlife management emphasizing game, nongame, and endangered species. Students gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of various government agencies and non-governmental organizations. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 357L
BIOL 357L Wildlife Management Lab 1.00 credit
This lab includes field trips. Taken concurrently with BIOL 357.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 357
BIOL 359 Field Studies in Biodiversity 4.00 credits
This course meets with and covers the same topics as BIOL 159 (see course description) but is designed for biology majors. In addition to the topics and requirements listed for BIOL 159, biology majors are required to submit a scientific paper on one of the field research projects. Course may be retaken with permission.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 360 Plant Biology 3.00 credits
This course acquaints students with the evolution, structure, development and functions of plant cells, tissues and organs. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 360L
BIOL 360L Plant Biology Lab 1.00 credit
This lab includes field trips. Taken concurrently with BIOL 360.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 360
BIOL 367 Entomology 3.00 credits
This course introduces students to the scientific study of insects. Topics will include insect identification, diversity, behavior, anatomy, ecology, and applied entomology. Fall alternate years.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 367L
BIOL 367L Entomology Lab 1.00 credit
This lab includes field trips. Taken concurrently with BIOL 367.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 367
BIOL 370 General Microbiology 3.00 credits
A study of the fundamental factors involved in microbiology including basic microbial morphology, taxonomy, biochemistry, genetics, and culture techniques. Fall.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 370L
BIOL 370L General Microbiology Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 370.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 370
BIOL 371 Vertebrate Biology & Anatomy 3.00 credits
Vertebrate diversity, structure and function from an evolutionary perspective. Topics covered will include development, physiology, ecology, behavior and conservation. Fall.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 371L
BIOL 371L Vertebrate Biol & Anatomy Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 371.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 371
BIOL 374 Immunology 3.00 credits
An introduction to the cellular and molecular basis of the immune response. Topics will include structures and interactions of effect on molecules in the immune system, generation of diversity in immune specificity, cellular immunology, and the basis of immunity and autoimmune diseases. Fall.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 374L
BIOL 374L Immunology Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 374.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 374
BIOL 375 Virology 3.00 credits
Viral evolution, replication, virus-host interactions, epidemiology, and lateral gene transfer are covered. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 399 Adv Topic: 2.00 credits
An introduction to the current reviews and research literature on specific biological topics. This course prepares students to study, analyze, and discuss the results of biological research. Selected topics are offered each semester. May be repeated with departmental permission. Fall and Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 420 Physiological Ecology 3.00 credits
Physiology largely determines the abundance and distribution of organisms in the environment. This course will examine the interactions between organismal function and the physical environment. Topics include: physiological and evolutionary adaptations to extreme environments (high altitudes, deep oceans, and deserts), physiological determinants of patterns of diversity, limits to performance and environmental tolerance, and physiological responses to climate change. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 440 Biochemistry I 3.00 credits
Lectures on the structure and function of the major classes of biomolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids) with an emphasis on proteins and enzymology. The central metabolic pathways of glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and the citric acid cycle are discussed from a mechanistic, energetic, and regulatory viewpoint Fall.
 
Prerequisite: CHEM 331 Minimum Grade: D and (CHEM 310 Minimum Grade: D or CHEM 240 Minimum Grade: D) and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 441 Physiology 3.00 credits
Physiological mechanisms, processes and responses of animals. Physical, chemical and biochemical principles common to physiological systems, such as respiration, excretion, and metabolism, will be covered. Goals of the course are to reveal the mechanisms, adaptive significance, and evolution of physiological systems using a comparative approach. Fall.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 441L
BIOL 441L Physiology Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 441.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 441
BIOL 443L Biochemistry Laboratory I 2.00 credits
An investigation of the techniques used to examine biomolecules and biochemical systems. Students perform integrated laboratory experiments in biochemistry. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 440 Minimum Grade: D or CHEM 440 Minimum Grade: D or CHEM 440 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 445 Biochemistry II 3.00 credits
Continuation of BIOL 440 (CHEM 440), including an examination of the primary processes of cellular energy production, oxidative phosphorylation and photosynthesis. The major metabolic pathways of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids and nucleotides are covered. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 440 Minimum Grade: D or CHEM 440 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 450 Biophysical Chemistry 3.00 credits
An introduction to quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, kinetics and physical methods as they relate to the study of biological macromolecules. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: MATH 157 Minimum Grade: D and (CHEM 440 Minimum Grade: D or BIOL 440 Minimum Grade: D)
BIOL 451 Comparative Endocrinology 3.00 credits
A comparative study of the structure and function of hormones across a wide variety of taxa (emphasizing vertebrates), including secretion and regulation of hormones, mechanisms of action, and integration of hormones into biological processes. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 451L
BIOL 451L Comparative Endocrinology Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 451.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 451
BIOL 456 Molecular Biology 3.00 credits
This course provides essential background for understanding the application of recombinant DNA technology in biological research and biotechnology. Fall.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 456L
BIOL 456L Molecular Biology Lab 2.00 credits
Labs focus on the construction, manipulation, and analysis of recombinant DNA molecules. Taken concurrently with BIOL 456.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 456
BIOL 460 Plant Physiology 3.00 credits
Plant structure, function, physiology, and biochemistry are explored. Emphasis is placed on physiological phenomena such as fluid transport processes, the regulation of plant growth, and photosynthesis. Aspects of plant molecular biology and genetic engineering of crop plants are also investigated. Offered on sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
Concurrent: BIOL 460L
BIOL 460L Plant Physiology Lab 1.00 credit
Taken concurrently with BIOL 460.
 
Concurrent: BIOL 460
BIOL 471 Wildlife Management 4.00 credits
Introduces students to the questions, principles and tools used by resource managers in the Kenyan Savanna ecosystem. Students will study habitat assessment, plant and animal identification, plant and animal associations and distributions, and other approaches to evaluating savanna ecosystems. School for Field Studies Program only. See http://www.fieldstudies.org/ for current schedule.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 472 Wildlife Ecology 4.00 credits
Presents students with the information and conceptual background necessary to understand the underlying ecological principles of the East African Savanna ecosystem. Focus on the fundamental processes and relationships between the biotic and abiotic environment. School for Field Studies Program only. See http://www.fieldstudies.org/ for current schedule.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 473 Tropical Marine Ecology 4.00 credits
Discusses the interactions that determine the distribution and abundance patterns of tropical marine organisms, with emphasis on the ecology of near-shore areas. Basic principles of ecology are integrated with physical, chemical and geological oceanography. School for Field Studies Program only. See http://www.fieldstudies.org/ for current schedule.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 474 Rainforest Ecology 4.00 credits
Introduces the structure and function of tropical rainforests including the floral and faunal components. Ecological processes that maintain biodiversity and the evolutionary processes that generate it will be presented. School for Field Studies Program only. See http://www.fieldstudies.org/ for current schedule.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 475 Principles of Forest Mgmt 4.00 credits
Presents the ecological and analytical tools used in the management of terrestrial, living resources. Uses examples from the tropics to stress the theories and skills that provide the foundation for land management worldwide. School for Field Studies Program only. See http://www.fieldstudies.org/ for current schedule.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 476 Princ of Resource Management 4.00 credits
Introduces practical tools used in addressing complex environmental problems including coastal zone planning, guidelines for ecologically sustainable development, environmental impact assessment, fisheries management techniques, and protected-area planning and management. School for Field Studies Program only. See http://www.fieldstudies.org/ for current schedule.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 477 Coastal Ecology 4.00 credits
Examines the ecological processes at the interface between land and sea in order to provide an understanding of how human perturbations can impact both marine and terrestrial systems. The watershed concept will be used to explore nutrient flow, energy cycling, erosion, coastal circulation productivity, and biotic interactions. School for Field Studies Program only. See http://www.fieldstudies.org/ for current schedule.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 102 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 484 Research Seminar 1.00 credit
This class is designed to expose students to various areas of biology research and to the different communications forms of that research. Graduate school is a fundamental part of the biology research pathway and therefore this course will help students to become familiar with the graduate school process. The format of the class will include seminars and class meetings. Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 490 Directed Reading 1.00 - 3.00 credits
Reading material will be selected by the student after consultation with a faculty member in the department. Course may be repeated to total not more than six credits. A maximum of six credits of any combination of BIOL 490, BIOL 496, and BIOL 498 can be applied to Biology electives. Fall and Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 496 Biological Resch Techniques 1.00 - 3.00 credits
An introduction to some of the experimental techniques used in biological research. Course content will vary by instructor. A maximum of six credits of any combination of BIOL 490, BIOL 496, and BIOL 498 can be applied to Biology electives. On sufficient demand.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 498 Directed Research .00 - 6.00 credits
This course provides the motivated student with the opportunity to conduct an independent research project under the direction of a Biology Department faculty member. A maximum of six credits of any combination of BIOL 490, BIOL 496, and BIOL 498 can be applied to Biology electives. Fall and Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D
BIOL 499 Senior Colloquium 1.00 credit
Required of all majors. This course meets once per week to review students framework of biological knowledge, discuss biological principles, and develop biological writing skills. Recent primary literature articles on current topics in biology may be examined as a means of review. At the end of the semester, students are required to take the Major Field Test in Biology. Fall and Spring.
 
Prerequisite: BIOL 202 Minimum Grade: D