BIOLOGY
Biology Major
Biology Minor
Course Descriptions
Pasteur Hall, Room 220, (507) 457-5270
http://bio.winona.edu
Edward Thompson (Chairperson)
Michael Delong Director, Large River Studies Center
Judith A. Loewen Director, Clinical Laboratory Science
Frances Ragsdale Director, Medical Technology
Edward Thompson Director, Cytotechnology
FACULTY
Kimberly M. Bates, Professor; B.S., University of Massachusetts-Amherst; M.S., Ph.D., University of Missouri-Columbia; 1997 –
Steven Berg, Professor; B.S., Pacific Lutheran University; Ph.D., Purdue University; 1986 –
Bruno Borsari, Assistant Professor; D.Ag.Sci., University of Bologna (Italy); Ph.D., University of New Orleans; 2005 –
Emmanuel Brako, Professor; B.V.M., University of Nairobi; B.S., Tuskegee University; M.S., Ph.D., Louisiana State University and A & M College; 1989 –
Michael D. Delong, Professor; B.S., University of Southern Mississippi; M.S., Memphis State University (TN); Ph.D., University of Idaho-Moscow; 1992 –
David Essar, Professor; B.S., Ferris State College (MI); M.S., Ph.D., University of Iowa; 1992 –
Kimberly J. Evenson, Professor; B.S., M.S., North Dakota State University, Fargo; Ph.D., University of Minnesota-Twin Cities; 1995 –
Neal Mundahl, Professor; B.A., Winona State University; M.S., Michigan Technological University; Ph.D., Miami University (Ohio); 1989 –
Frances Ragsdale, Professor; B.S. Eastern Oregon State College; M.S., Southeastern Louisiana University; Ph.D., University of Idaho, 1993 –
Lawrence Reuter, Professor; B.A., Saint Mary’s College of Minnesota; Ph.D., Princeton University; 1979 –
Robin K. Richardson, Professor; B.S., Michigan State University; M.S., Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant; Ph.D., University of Oklahoma,
Norman; 1992 –
Scott P. Segal, Assistant Professor; B.S., University of Wisconsin; Ph.D., Northwestern University; 2006 –
Edward Thompson, Professor; B.A., Macalester College, St. Paul; Ph.D., Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee; 1992 –
Edward (Ted) Wilson, Assistant Professor; B.A., Luther College, Decorah, IA; M.S., Ph.D., Iowa State University, Ames; 2004 –
PROGRAMS AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Majors
The Biology Department offers a biology major in which a WSU student may select one of five options: allied health, cell and molecular, ecology, environmental science, or life science (teaching). Each of these options leads to a B. S. degree and allows for many career opportunities. Many graduates pursue additional education in disciplines such as biology, biochemistry, medicine, physical therapy, dentistry, and veterinary medicine. Other graduates use the B.S. degree in biology to gain employment in the rapidly expanding field of health care and research or in more traditional areas such as wildlife and environmental management. The life science major prepares students for teaching at the middle school and high school levels.
The Biology Department also offers majors in clinical laboratory science, medical technology, and cytotechnology. (See separate program listings under “Clinical Laboratory Science” (page 75), “Medical Technology” (page 158), and “Cytotechnology” (page 86). Students interested in the medical technology and cytotechnology majors should contact the appropriate program director as soon as possible after arriving on campus.
Minor
For students majoring in other fields, the Biology Department offers a minor (38 S.H.), which includes courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. This minor is designed to supplement majors in all fields of study at Winona State University.
Pre-Professional Sequences
The Biology Department sponsors seven pre-professional sequences. These are not degree programs (i.e., major or minor) at WSU; rather these programs are designed to prepare students to pursue an advanced degree at another college or university.
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Medicine (Allopathic and Osteopathic)
Pre-Optometry
Pre-Physical Therapy
Pre-Physician Assistant
Pre-Podiatry
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
For the specific program requirements, see the “Pre-Professional Sequences” section in this catalog.
GENERAL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Students in all biology majors start with a core set of classes, which includes Basics of Life, Organismal Diversity, General Ecology, Cell Biology, and Genetics. They also take Principles of Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and an appropriate mathematics class. After these courses are completed, students begin to take coursework that is specific for their chosen options. A year of physics and a capstone research project are required of students majoring in all biology options.
The requirements for the various biology options are not necessarily identical with the requirements for admission to graduate or professional schools. For example, if students plan to attend medical, dental, veterinary, physical therapy, or physician assistant schools or if students plan to pursue a doctorate in the sciences, they should expect to take additional courses in calculus, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Internships are encouraged.
For the qualified and interested student, the Biology Department sponsors an Honors Program (described below), which allows for a distinguished baccalaureate degree. The Biology Department is also home for the Gamma Delta Chapter of the Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society. More information about the Honors Program and “Tri-Beta” is available on the Biology Department website (http://bio.winona.edu).
As noted above, every student graduating with a degree in a biology option is required to complete a capstone research experience. This research must be supervised by a member of the biology faculty or someone approved by the Biology Department. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisors to discuss research projects and to identify a research advisor during the second semester of their junior year. Additional information about this capstone requirement is available on the Biology Department website.
PASS/NO CREDIT (P/NC) COURSES
BIOL 109, 117, 118, 171, 172, 173, and 400 must be taken for letter grade only. Biology majors and minors must take all required and elective courses for letter grades. Non-biology majors can take biology courses other than BIOL 117, 118, 171, 172, 173, or 400 on a P/NC basis. Courses offered on a “pass/no credit only” or “letter grade only” basis are so designated in the course descriptions.
HONORS IN BIOLOGY PROGRAM
Philosophy
Any science can be described as having two major aspects: (1) an organized body of knowledge and (2) a formal way of adding new information to the existing body of knowledge. Thus, science is related to method and process, and it is not merely a collection of factual information. The Biology Department at WSU believes that students who desire advanced careers in biology need significant experiences that involve them directly in an intimate and meaningful process of biological inquiry. Together, the Honors Program and the capstone requirement provide this enhanced opportunity to eligible biology majors.
Student Benefits
Students participating in the Honors in Biology Program will receive a number of benefits which enhance their academic careers and which improve their likelihood of success in the field of biology. These benefits include:
1. The opportunity for extensive “one-on-one” research direction under one or more Biology Department faculty members. The research activity allows students and faculty to become very well acquainted.
2. The opportunity to have faculty members write highly specific and individual letters of recommendation on behalf of the student. These strong, distinctive letters will greatly improve the student’s chances of acceptance into various graduate, medical, dental, physical therapy, or other training programs. The letters will also improve students’ chances of gaining employment after their college career.
3. The opportunity to practice the process of real biological science. This research opportunity is the mark of a high quality science education at a selective institution.
Students who are admitted into the Honors in Biology Program and successfully complete the process will, upon graduation:
• Have their official transcripts stamped with the words “Graduated with Honors in Biology”
• Have their transcript show the title of their honors thesis
• Have their graduation status (Honors in Biology) indicated on the graduation program
To be eligible for the Honors in Biology Program, a student must:
1. Be a Biology major (any option)
2. Have completed the biology core sequence (Basics of Life, Organismal Diversity, Ecology, Cell Biology and Genetics) or its equivalent as well as Principles of Chemistry and Organic Chemistry
3. Have a 3.25 GPA both overall and within the major
4. Identify a WSU faculty member who is willing to serve as a research advisor to the student
5. Apply for and be granted admission into the Honors in Biology Program by the Biology Honors Committee
Completion
To receive Honors in Biology, students must satisfy the following requirements:
1. Complete the Honors in Biology seminar offered in the spring. Honors students graduating at the end of fall semester may satisfy this requirement by
giving a seminar in which they describe their honors research to the department in another venue approved by the Honors Committee.
2. Present their research at an extramural research meeting or symposium.
3. Submit a written honors thesis in an appropriate format and style that is approved by both the research advisor and the Biology Honors Committee.
UNIVERSITY STUDIES FLAG REQUIREMENTS
Students may use Flag courses, which will usually be in the student’s major or minor program, to satisfy both University Studies and major requirements. The Biology Department offers the following flag courses in the University Studies Program:
FLAG
Oral
BIOL 307 Cell Biology Laboratory (1)
BIOL 309 Developmental Biology (3)
BIOL 315 Environmental Biology (3)
BIOL 409 General Microbiology (4)
BIOL 423 Ecosystem Ecology (3)
BIOL 460 General Parasitology (3)
BIOL 462 Parasitology (4)
Math/Critical Analysis
BIOL 310 Genetics (3)
Writing
BIOL 308 Cell Biology (3)
BIOL 323 General Physiology (5)
BIOL 415 Ecology of Large Rivers (4)
BIOL 431 Molecular Biology Lab (4)
BIOL 445 Immunology (3)
BIOL 499 Capstone Project (1-3)
Flag courses that can be used to satisfy biology major/minor requirements are identified in the lists of required courses and electives in this section.
B.S. MAJOR BIOLOGY - ALLIED HEALTH OPTION (BIAH)
73 S.H. (No Minor Required)
BIOLOGY CORE COURSES - BIOL (18 S.H.)
241 Basics of Life (4)
242 Organismal Diversity (4)
312 General Ecology (3)
308 Cell Biology (3)
310 Genetics (3)
307 Cell Biology Laboratory (1) OR
311 Genetics Laboratory (1)
Note: BIOL 241 and 242 should be taken prior to BIOL 312, 307, 308, and 310. BIOL 308 should be taken prior to or concurrently with BIOL 307.
ALLIED HEALTH OPTION REQUIREMENTS (8 S.H.)
BIOL 201 Human Anatomy (4)
BIOL 323 General Physiology (4)
ALLIED HEALTH OPTION ELECTIVES (18 S.H.)
Courses totaling 17 semester hours to be chosen from the biology electives listed on page 61.
BIOLOGY CAPSTONE REQUIREMENT (3 S.H.)
BIOL 499 Capstone Project (1-3)
OTHER REQUIRED COURSES (26 S.H.)
Chemistry (12 S.H.)
CHEM *212, *213 Principles of Chemistry I, II (8)
CHEM 340 Organic Chemistry (4)
Note: Organic Chemistry 350 and 351 (both must be taken) may be substituted for CHEM 340.
Mathematics (6 S.H.)
MATH 150 Modeling Using Precalculus and Statistics (3)
MATH 155 Calculus Based Modeling (3)
Note: MATH 120 (Precalculus) and MATH 160 (Calculus) (both must be taken) may be substituted for MATH 150 and MATH 155.
Physics (8 S.H.)
PHYS *201, *202 General Physics I, II (8)
Note: University Physics I and II (*221, *222) (both must be taken) may be substituted for General Physics I and II (201, 202).
B.S. MAJOR BIOLOGY - CELL AND
MOLECULAR OPTION (BICM)
71 S.H. (No Minor Required)
BIOLOGY CORE COURSES - BIOL (18 S.H.)
241 Basics of Life (4)
242 Organismal Diversity (4)
312 General Ecology (3)
308 Cell Biology (3)
310 Genetics (3)
307 Cell Biology Laboratory (1) OR
313 Ecology Laboratory (1)
Note: BIOL 241 and 242 should be taken prior to BIOL 312, 307, 308 and 310. BIOL 308 should be taken prior to or concurrently with BIOL 307.
CELL AND MOLECULAR OPTION REQUIREMENTS (14-15 S.H.)
CHEM 400 Chemistry (Biochemistry I) (4)
BIOL 430 Molecular Biology (3)
Two of the six courses listed below (7-8 S.H.):
BIOL 309 Developmental Biology (3)
BIOL 393 Animal Cell Culture (4)
BIOL 394 Plant Tissue Culture, Principles and Application (4)
BIOL 409 General Microbiology (4)
BIOL 431 Molecular Biology Lab (4)
BIOL 445 Immunology (3)
CELL AND MOLECULAR OPTION ELECTIVES (9-10 S.H.)
Courses totaling 9-10 semester hours to be chosen from the biology electives listed on page 61.
BIOLOGY CAPSTONE REQUIREMENT (3 S.H.)
BIOL 499 Capstone Project (1-3)
OTHER REQUIRED COURSES (26 S.H.)
Chemistry (12 S.H.)
CHEM *212, *213 Principles of Chemistry I, II (8)
CHEM 340 Organic Chemistry (4)
Note: Organic Chemistry 350 and 351 (both must be taken) may be substituted for CHEM 340.
Mathematics (4-6 S.H.)
MATH 150 Modeling Using Precalculus and Statistics (3)
MATH 155 Calculus Based Modeling (3)
Note: MATH 160 (Calculus 4 S.H.) may be substituted for
MATH 150 and MATH 155.
Physics (8 S.H.)
PHYS *201, *202 General Physics I, II (8)
Note: University Physics I and II (*221, *222) (both must be taken) may be substituted for General Physics I and II (201, 202).
B.S. MAJOR BIOLOGY - ECOLOGY OPTION (BIEC)
71 S.H. (No Minor Required)
BIOLOGY CORE COURSES - BIOL (18 S.H.)
241 Basics of Life (4)
242 Organismal Diversity (4)
312 General Ecology (3)
313 General Ecology Laboratory (1)
308 Cell Biology (3)
310 Genetics (3)
Note: BIOL 241 and 242 should be taken prior to BIOL 312, 313, 308 and 310. BIOL 312 should be taken prior to or concurrently with BIOL 313.
ECOLOGY OPTION REQUIREMENTS (10-11 S.H.)
At least one course must be completed from each of the following three groups:
Group A - Organismal/Systematic Ecology
BIOL 303 Biology of Algae and Fungi (4)
BIOL 318 Invertebrate Zoology (4)
BIOL 319 Vertebrate Biology (4)
BIOL 320 Ornithology (4)
BIOL 350 Plant Taxonomy (4)
BIOL 360 Entomology (4)
Group B - Field and Quantitative Techniques
BIOL 335 Plant Ecology (4)
BIOL 415 Ecology of Large Rivers (4)
BIOL 420 Limnology (4)
STAT 305 Biometry (3)
Group C - Principles and Processes
BIOL 315 Environmental Biology (3)
BIOL 380 Evolution (3)
BIOL 423 Ecosystem Ecology (3)
BIOL 424 Biogeography (3)
BIOL 425 Animal Behavior (3)
ECOLOGY OPTION ELECTIVES (13-14 S.H.)
Courses may be chosen from the biology electives listed on page 61. The required and elective ecology option courses must total 24 S.H.
BIOLOGY CAPSTONE REQUIREMENT (3 S.H.)
BIOL 499 Capstone Project (1-3)
OTHER REQUIRED COURSES (26 S.H.)
Chemistry (12 S.H.)
CHEM *212, *213 Principles of Chemistry I, II (8)
CHEM 340 Organic Chemistry (4)
Note: Organic Chemistry 350 and 351 (both must be taken) may be substituted for CHEM 340.
Mathematics (6 S.H.)
MATH 150 Modeling Using Precalculus and Statistics (3)
MATH 155 Calculus Based Modeling (3)
Note: Students are encouraged to take Biometry (STAT 205); Calculus I, II (MATH 160, 165) (Both must be taken.) May be substituted for MATH 150 and MATH 155.
Physics (8 S.H.)
PHYS *201, *202 General Physics I, II (8)
Note: University Physics I and II (*221, *222) (both must be taken) may be substituted for General Physics I and II (201, 202).
B.S. MAJOR BIOLOGY - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE OPTION (BIES)
124 S.H. (No Minor Required)
Alliance with environmental science options of other departments is given under “Environmental Science” on page 109.
UNIVERSITY STUDIES COURSES (30 S.H.)
A number of courses required by the biology-environmental science option also satisfy requirements of the University Studies Program. Students should consult with their academic advisor for more information.
BIOLOGY CORE COURSES - BIOL (18 S.H.)
241 Basics of Life (4)
242 Organismal Diversity (4)
312 General Ecology (3)
313 General Ecology Laboratory (1)
308 Cell Biology (3)
310 Genetics (3)
Note: BIOL 241 and 242 should be taken prior to BIOL 312, 313, 308 and 310. BIOL 312 should be taken prior to or concurrently with BIOL 313.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE OPTION REQUIREMENTS - BIOL (12 S.H.)
318 Invertebrate Zoology (4) OR BIOL 319 Vertebrate Biology (4)
335 Plant Ecology (4) OR BIOL 350 Plant Taxonomy (4)
315 Environmental Biology (3)
495 Seminar - Environmental Science (1)
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE OPTION ELECTIVES - BIOL
(7 S.H.)
Courses totaling 7 S.H. to be chosen from:
303 Biology of Algae and Fungi (4)
318 Invertebrate Zoology (4)
319 Vertebrate Biology (4)
320 Ornithology (4)
335 Plant Ecology (4)
350 Plant Taxonomy (4)
360 Entomology (4)
380 Evolution (3)
405 Fishery Biology (3)
409 Microbiology (4)
415 Ecology of Large Rivers (4)
420 Limnology (4)
423 Ecosystem Ecology (3)
424 Biogeography (3)
425 Animal Behavior (3)
BIOLOGY CAPSTONE REQUIREMENT (3 S.H.)
BIOL 499 Capstone Project (1-3)
OTHER REQUIRED COURSES (54-55 S.H.)
Chemistry (16 S.H.)
CHEM *212, *213 Principles of Chemistry I, II (8)
CHEM 320 Environmental Chemistry (4)
CHEM 340 Organic Chemistry Survey (4)
Note: Organic Chemistry 350 and 351 (both must be taken) may be substituted for CHEM 340.
Geoscience (12 S.H.)
* GEOS 120 Dynamic Earth (4)
* GEOS 130 Earth and Life Through Time (4)
GEOS 240 Watershed Science (4)
Mathematics (9 S.H.)
MATH 150 Modeling Using Precalculus and Statistics (3)
MATH 155 Calculus Based Modeling (3)
STAT 305 Biometry (3)
Note: Calculus I, II (MATH 160, 165) (both must be taken) may be substituted for MATH 150, 155.
Physics (8 S.H.)
PHYS *201, *202 General Physics I, II (8)
Note: University Physics I & II (*221, *222) (both must be taken) may be substituted for General Physics I, II (201, 202).
Both of the following courses (6 S.H.)
ECON 315 Environmental and Natural Resources (3)
POLS 340 Environmental Policy (3)
One of the following six courses (3-4 S.H.)
Chemistry
CHEM 425 Analytical Chemistry I (4)
CHEM 435 Topics in Environmental Chemistry (3)
Geoscience
GEOS 310 Non-Renewable Natural Resources (3)
GEOS 315 Surfical Processes and Soils (4)
GEOS 325 Environmental Geoscience (3)
GEOS 420 Applied Hydrogeology (4)
B.S. MAJOR - LIFE SCIENCE (Teaching) (BLST)
128 S.H. (No Minor Required)
Notes:
1. The Biology Department, in cooperation with other science departments and the College of Education, is developing a Board of Teaching-approvable program to better fulfill the needs of 21st century science teachers.
2. Teaching majors must take all courses in the Professional Education Sequence in addition to courses in the content area. Refer to these requirements in the Education section in this catalog (page 90). For more information, refer to the WSU Teacher Education Student Handbook.
3. Students majoring in Biology Life Science must have both a 2.75 overall GPA and 2.50 GPA or higher in the major.
UNIVERSITY STUDIES COURSES (19 S.H.)
A number of courses required by the life science major also satisfy requirements of the University Studies Program. Students should consult with their academic advisor for more information.
BIOLOGY CORE COURSES - BIOL (18 S.H.)
241 Basics of Life (4)
242 Organismal Diversity (4)
312 General Ecology (3)
308 Cell Biology (3)
310 Genetics (3)
307 Cell Biology Laboratory (1) OR
313 Ecology Laboratory (1)
Note: BIOL 241 and 242 should be taken prior to BIOL 312, 313, 307, 308 and 310. BIOL 308 should be taken prior to or concurrently with BIOL 307. BIOL 312 should be taken prior to or concurrently with BIOL 313.
LIFE SCIENCE REQUIREMENTS (6 S.H.)
BIOL 315 Environmental Biology (3)
BIOL 499 Capstone Project (1-3) (This course also satisfies the biology capstone requirement.)
LIFE SCIENCE ELECTIVES - BIOL (9 S.H.)
At least 9 S.H. of approved elective courses to be chosen from the biology electives listed below. It is strongly recommended that the elective requirements be fulfilled from the following courses; students should carefully choose electives with the aid of the life science advisor to ensure broad knowledge and skill in biology:
201 Human Anatomy (4)
303 Biology of Algae and Fungi (4)
314 Plant Physiology (4)
318 Invertebrate Zoology (4)
319 Vertebrate Biology (4)
320 Ornithology (4)
335 Plant Ecology (4)
350 Plant Taxonomy (4)
360 Entomology (4)
409 General Microbiology (4)
441 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology (3)
OTHER REQUIRED COURSES (76 S.H.)
Chemistry (12 S.H.)
CHEM *212, *213 Principles of Chemistry I, II (8)
CHEM 340 Organic Chemistry (4)
Note: Organic Chemistry 350 and 351 (both must be taken) may be substituted for CHEM 340.
Education (38 S.H.)
Notes:
1. These courses require formal admission to the teacher education program. (See page 91, “Admission to the WSU Teacher Education Program.”)
2. The College of Education plans to restructure some program offerings in 2007-2008. As a result, the content, numbering, and/or credit hours for Professional Education Sequence courses will likely be revised after this catalog goes to print. To obtain the latest course requirements, please refer to the current program sheets, which are available from the department office or online at www.winona.edu/education/advising.
* EDUC 305 Human Development and Learning: Secondary (4)
EDUC 308 Human Relations and Student Diversity (3)
EDUC 312 Instructional Planning Assessment: Secondary (3)
EDUC 429 Secondary Reading and Teaching Strategies (4)
EDUC 449 Middle Level Philosophy, Organization and Interdisciplinary Planning (3)
EDUC 459 The Professional Educator (3)
EDST 465 Student Teaching (12)
Health, Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences
HERS 204 Personal and Community Health (3)
Special Education
SPED 400 Education of Exceptional Children/Youth (3)
Geoscience (8 S.H.)
* GEOS 120 Dynamic Earth (4)
* GEOS 130 Earth and Life Through Time (4)
Mathematics (6 S.H.)
MATH 150 Modeling Using Precalculus and Statistics (3)
MATH 155 Calculus Based Modeling (3)
Physics (12 S.H.)
PHYS *201, *202 General Physics I, II (8)
PHYS 311 Science Teaching Methods (4)
Note: University Physics I and II (221, 222) (both must be taken) may be substituted for General Physics I and II (201, 202).
B.A. MINOR BIOLOGY (BIOL)
38 S.H.
REQUIRED COURSES (23 S.H.)
Mathematics (3 S.H.)
MATH 150 Modeling Using Precalculus and Statistics (3)
Note: Any higher level math class of at least 3 S.H. may be substituted for MATH 150.
Biology (8 S.H.)
BIOL 241 Basics of Life (4)
BIOL 242 Organismal Diversity (4)
Chemistry (12 S.H.)
* CHEM 212 Principles of Chemistry I (4)
* CHEM 213 Principles of Chemistry II (4)
CHEM 340 Organic Chemistry (4)
Note: Organic Chemistry 350 and 351 may be substituted for CHEM 340.
ELECTIVES (15 S.H.)
Any biology course (required or elective) that is part of the B.S. Biology major (any option).
BIOLOGY ELECTIVES
The following courses may be used as electives in any biology major option or in the biology minor.
Biology (BIOL)
201 Human Anatomy (4)
303 Biology of Algae and Fungi (4)
307 Cell Biology Laboratory (1)
309 Developmental Biology (3)
311 Genetics Laboratory (1)
313 General Ecology Laboratory (1)
314 Current Issues in Plant Biology (4)
315 Environmental Biology (4)
318 Invertebrate Zoology (4)
319 Vertebrate Biology (4)
320 Ornithology (4)
323 General Physiology (4)
324 General Physiology Laboratory (2)
327 Developmental Biology Laboratory (1)
330 Biomedical Ethics (3)
335 Plant Ecology (4)
340 Virology (3)
350 Plant Taxonomy (4)
360 Entomology (4)
365 Cultures & Ecology of East Africa – Tanzania (4)
380 Evolution (3)
393 Animal Cell Culture (4)
394 Plant Tissue Culture, Principles and Application (4)
400 Individual Problems in Biology (1-3)
405 Fishery Biology (3)
409 General Microbiology (4)
410 Membrane Biology (4)
411 Protein Structure and Function (1)
415 Ecology of Large Rivers (4)
420 Limnology (4)
423 Ecosystem Ecology (3)
424 Biogeography (3)
425 Animal Behavior (3)
427 Advanced Topics in Biology (1-4)
430 Molecular Biology (3)
431 Molecular Biology Laboratory (4)
441 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology (3)
443 Urinalysis (1)
444 Immunochemistry and Hematology (2)
445 Immunology (3)
446 Immunology Laboratory (1)
460 General Parasitology (3)
462 Parasitology (4)
470 Histology (4)
490 Issues in Biology (3)
495 Seminar in Biology (1)
496 Undergraduate Thesis (1)
499 Capstone Project (1-3)
Statistics (STAT)
305 Biometry (3)
Health, Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences (HERS)
370 Mechanical Kinesiology (3) (This is an elective for the Allied
Health Option only.)
Chemistry (CHEM)
400 Biochemistry I (4)
401 Biochemistry II (4)
Psychology (PSY)
433 Neuroscience (4)
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS (BIOL)
104 - Environment, Society, and Conservation (3 S.H.)
Problems in the wise use of renewable resources with emphasis on human impacts and sustainable living. Lecture only. Offered each semester.
109 - Microbes and Society (3 S.H.)
An exploration of the microbial world and how that world influences life on earth. Through lectures, assigned readings, Internet explorations, videotapes, writing assignments, and discussions, this course examines the power and influence of selected microorganisms on history, medicine, economics, the environment, demography, the arts, and human lives. Letter grade only. Offered yearly.
117 - Human Biology (3 S.H.)
An introductory study of the anatomy, physiology, development, and heredity of the human for students who are not majoring in biology. Lecture only. Letter grade only. Offered each semester.
118 - General Biology (4 S.H.)
A course that promotes critical thinking about the process of studying living organisms. Students are exposed to a sampling of major living groups while utilizing the scientific method. Lecture and laboratory. Letter grade only. Offered each semester.
171 - Medical Terminology (1 S.H.)
Scientific terminology as it applies to human and veterinary medicine, dentistry, and related professions. Topics include prefixes and suffixes, numbers, amounts, colors, and positions as well as the integumentary, respiratory, and digestive systems. Independent study using CDs and study guide. Letter grade only. Offered each semester.
172 - Medical Terminology (1 S.H.)
Scientific terminology as it applies to human and veterinary medicine, dentistry and related professions. Topics include cardiovascular, hematic, lymphatic, urinary, and reproductive systems. Independent study using CDs and study guide. Letter grade only. Offered each semester.
173 - Medical Terminology (1 S.H.)
Scientific terminology as it applies to human and veterinary medicine, dentistry, and related professions. Topics include the nervous, endocrine, and musculoskeletal systems as well as medical specialties. Independent study using CDs and study guide. Letter grade only. Offered each semester.
201 - Human Anatomy (4 S.H.)
A study of the human body from both systemic and regional perspectives, integrating microscopic and macroscopic information. Includes cat dissection as an example of mammalian anatomy and demonstrations of prosected cadavers. Lecture and lab. Prerequisites: CHEM 212, CHEM 213, and BIOL 241. Offered yearly.
203 - Natural History (4 S.H.)
Ecology, life history, behavior and identification of plants and animals in local habitats including forests, prairies, lakes, and streams. Lecture, laboratory and field trips. Offered yearly.
204 - Elements of Anatomy and Physiology (4 S.H.)
Introduction to the structure and function of the human body designed especially for physical education, recreation, and health majors. Offered according to demand.
206 - Normal Nutrition (3 S.H.)
Basic principles of nutrition and the nutritional needs of individuals at different age levels. Lecture only. Prerequisite: CHEM 210. Offered each semester.
209 - Microbiology (3 S.H.)
Introduction to microbiology including study of prokaryotic, eukaryotic, and viral microorganisms important to human health, microbial growth, microbial control, microbial nutrition, and microbial cultivation. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: CHEM 210. Offered yearly.
211 - Anatomy and Physiology I (4 S.H.)
First course of a year-long sequence for students in Nursing and Health, Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences. Includes terminology and orientation of the body, basics of chemistry, cytology, histology, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Lecture and laboratory. Offered yearly.
212 - Anatomy and Physiology II (4 S.H.)
The second course of a year-long sequence for students in Nursing and Health, Exercise and Rehabilitative Science. Includes structure and function of the endocrine, circulatory, immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems; nutrition and metabolism; fluid and ionic balance. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 211. Offered yearly.
241 - Basics of Life (4 S.H.)
One of two introductory courses, both of which are required of all biology majors. Introduces the basic life processes at the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organismal levels. Lecture and laboratory. Offered each semester.
242 - Organismal Diversity (4 S.H.)
One of two introductory courses, both of which are required of all biology majors. Introduces ways in which organisms carry out basic life processes (e.g., gas exchange, nutrition) and interactions between organisms and their environment. Lecture and laboratory. Offered each semester.
269 - Human Reproduction (3 S.H.)
The biology of human reproduction. The aim of this course is to present a basic but comprehensive survey of many aspects of human reproduction. Topics include anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and normal and abnormal functions of all aspects of reproduction. Lecture and discussion. Offered yearly.
303 - Biology of Algae and Fungi (4 S.H.)
A systematic, morphological and evolutionary overview of fungi, photosynthetic protists, and plants other than the angiosperms. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered according to demand.
307 - Cell Biology Laboratory (1 S.H.)
An experimental study of the cell as a biological unit. Use of histochemistry, spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, centrifugation, microscopy, and statistics in analysis of ultrastructure, macromolecular organization, and function of cell components in plants and animals. Prerequisites: BIOL 241, BIOL 242, and current or previous enrollment in BIOL 308 and either CHEM 340 or CHEM 350. Offered each semester.
308 - Cell Biology (3 S.H.)
A study of the cell as a biological unit. Emphasizes analysis of ultrastructure, macromolecular organization, and function of cell components in plants and animals. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 241, BIOL 242, and current or previous enrollment in either CHEM 340 or CHEM 350. Offered each semester.
309 - Developmental Biology (3 S.H.)
A study of the mechanisms of the sequent changes that occur within organelles, cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems of plants and animals during their life spans. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
310 - Genetics (3 S.H.)
A survey of the principles of Mendelian, molecular, cytological, population, and human genetics. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and BIOL 242. Offered each semester.
311 - Genetics Laboratory (1 S.H.)
An optional laboratory to accompany Genetics (BIOL 310). Includes experiments from classical, molecular, and cytogenetics. Prerequisite: Concurrent or previous enrollment in BIOL 310. Offered yearly.
312 - General Ecology (3 S.H.)
Relationships between organisms and their environment with an emphasis on fundamental principles. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and BIOL 242. Offered each semester.
313 - General Ecology Laboratory (1 S.H.)
Laboratory and field studies of fundamental ecological principles. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and BIOL 242. Corequisite: BIOL 312. Offered yearly.
314 – Current Issues in Plant Biology (4 S.H.)
This course reviews a broad range of current topics/issues in plant biology by way of discussion and laboratory. Some of the topics are controversial and will intersect with social, ethical, and political aspects of biology (i.e., biotechnology, ethnobotany). Other topics will introduce students to current methodologies (i.e., forensic botany, genetic engineering, phytoremediation) and unorthodox ways of thinking about plants (is there a plant intelligence?, plant sex and sex change, tales from the underground, etc.). Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and BIOL 242. Offered alternate years.
315 - Environmental Biology (3 S.H.)
A study of human impacts on the natural environment. Modern conservation measures, pollution prevention, and habitat management procedures are treated in depth. Lecture, laboratory, and field trips. Prerequisite: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
318 - Invertebrate Zoology (4 S.H.)
Survey of invertebrate animals. Emphasis on structure, function, evolution, and ecology of the major invertebrate groups. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
319 - Vertebrate Biology (4 S.H.)
A study of the structure, function, evolution, and taxonomy of all the groups of vertebrates. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
320 - Ornithology (4 S.H.)
Structure, classification, behavior, distribution, and identification of birds. Lecture, laboratory, and fieldwork. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, BIOL 312, and CHEM 212 or instructor’s permission. Offered alternate years.
323 - General Physiology (4 S.H.)
Lectures, demonstrations, and discussions are designed to provide the basis for understanding physiological mechanisms and the functional organization of body systems. This is an examination of how the human body works. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 201, BIOL 241, BIOL 242, CHEM 212, and CHEM 213. Offered yearly.
324 - General Physiology Laboratory (2 S.H.)
An extensive laboratory course intended to introduce students to the classic physiology exercises as well as new techniques used to address questions about how a body functions. Exercise topics may include muscle physiology, neurophysiology, ECG, blood pressure, sensory investigations, respiratory functions, and diving response. Prerequisite: Concurrent or previous enrollment in BIOL 323. Offered yearly.
327 - Developmental Biology Laboratory (1 S.H.)
An experimental study of the mechanisms of changes that occur during embryonic development. Laboratory. Prerequisites: concurrent or previous enrollment in BIOL 309. Offered alternate years.
330 - Biomedical Ethics (3 S.H.)
Ethical issues in health care such as abortion, termination of treatment, euthanasia, truth-telling and confidentiality, medical experimentation and informed consent, transplant surgery, artificial insemination, surrogate pregnancy, or the allocation of medical resources. Lecture only. Offered yearly.
333 - Clinical Laboratory Techniques (1 S.H.)
Introduction to basic and specialized clinical laboratory techniques. These include formulating chemical solutions and compounds, phlebotomy, collection and processing of clinical specimens, aseptic techniques and culturing of organisms, and the safe handling and disposal of laboratory materials. Includes off-site visits to observe hospital and clinical laboratories. Prerequisites: CHEM 212 and CHEM 213. Offered yearly.
335 - Plant Ecology (4 S.H.)
A study of the interactions of plants with each other and their environment. Emphasis is on applied and theoretical physiological, population, and community ecology. Lecture, fieldwork, and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, BIOL 312, and BIOL 313. Offered alternate years.
340 - Virology (3 S.H.)
Basic properties of viruses. Includes viral structure, assays, replication, diseases, genetic properties, mechanisms of interaction with cells, viral oncogenesis, and interference with viral multiplication. Lecture only. Prerequisite: BIOL 308. Offered alternate years.
350 - Plant Taxonomy (4 S.H.)
An introduction to the principles and practices of plant classification, systematics and identification, as applied to vascular plants with special emphasis on the local flora. Lecture, laboratory, and field trips. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
360 - Entomology (4 S.H.)
The largest group of organisms on earth is explored through personal collections, projects, lecture, and laboratory exercises. Students sample morphology, life history strategies, and the diversity of the group through lecture discussions and laboratory exercises. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
365 - The Cultures and Ecology of East Africa - Tanzania (4 S.H.)
This is a four-week specialized travel study course, which deals with the cultural and natural resources of east Africa, specifically Tanzania. An immersive classroom experience is followed by a three-week study tour in Tanzania. Specific attention is paid to the cultural and natural resources of the area. Students visit traditional villages, schools, hospitals, national parks and game reserves, and cultural sites. Grade only. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing or higher and instructor’s permission. Offered summers of alternate years.
380 - Evolution (3 S.H.)
Overview of principles and processes of biological evolution with emphasis on selection, variation, and macroevolution. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
393 - Animal Cell Culture (4 S.H.)
Introduction to basic and specialized techniques of eukaryotic cell culture. Techniques include aseptic technique, in vitro cell cultivation, cell enumeration, viability determination, hybridoma technique for monoclonal antibody production, cryopreservation, and cell cloning. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, and BIOL 310. Offered yearly.
394 - Plant Tissue Culture, Principles and Application (4 S.H.)
Basic plant tissue culture techniques. Use of these methods in commercial propagation of plants, production of disease-free plants, and genetic improvement of ornamental and crop plants. Laboratory and discussions. Prerequisite: BIOL 308. Offered alternate years.
399 - Internship (1-12 S.H.)
Supervised experiences at a government, industrial, or research institution. Credits do not replace other required or elective courses in the Biology Major, but count as general elective credit. May be repeated up to 12 S.H. Only 3 S.H. may be taken for letter grade. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered each semester.
400 - Individual Problems in Biology I (1-3 S.H.)
An opportunity for the qualified advanced undergraduate student to work independently. May be repeated to a total of 3 S.H. Prerequisite: Instructor’s permission. Letter grade only. Offered each semester.
405 - Fishery Biology (3 S.H.)
Examination of the concepts, methodologies, and problems of modern-day fishery management. Lecture and fieldwork. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
409 - General Microbiology (4 S.H.)
The anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, genetics, taxonomy, and ecology of microorganisms, especially bacteria; includes applications to agriculture, medicine, and industry. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and CHEM 340. Offered yearly.
410 - Membrane Biology (4 S.H.)
Study of the structure and function of biological membranes. Includes detailed discussions of membrane preparation, membrane components, membrane carbohydrates, membrane transport, and membrane bioenergetics. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, BIOL 312, and CHEM 340. Offered according to demand.
411- Protein Structure and Function (1 S.H.)
An advanced study of protein primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structure using the data found in the National Institutes of Health Protein Data Bank, along with software for visualization and presentation of crystallographic data. Protein functions will be correlated with the structural features through primary literature, monographs, and textbooks. Lecture and demonstration. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, and CHEM 340 or CHEM 350. Offered according to demand.
415 - Ecology of Large Rivers (4 S.H.)
Examination of the geological, physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of large river ecosystems. Includes review of several river systems with comparisons to the upper Mississippi River. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312 or instructor’s permission. Offered alternate years.
420 - Limnology (4 S.H.)
Analysis of the geological, physical, chemical, and biological aspects of inland waters. Lecture, laboratory, and fieldwork. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, BIOL 312, and CHEM 212 or instructor’s permission. Offered alternate years.
423 - Ecosystem Ecology (3 S.H.)
The structure and function of ecosystems including biochemical cycling, food webs, and introduction to modeling. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, BIOL 312, MATH 150, and MATH 155. Offered alternate years.
424 - Biogeography (3 S.H.)
A study of the dynamics of ranges and distribution changes of plants and animals on earth, with emphasis on the evolutionary, ecological, geological, and climatic influences on dispersal, extinction, and diversification. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
425 - Animal Behavior (3 S.H.)
A study of how and why animals behave in the ways they do. Special attention is given to the observation and description of behavior and to the ensuing questions of immediate causation, development, evolution and function of behavior. Lecture and demonstration. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered alternate years.
427 - Advanced Topics in Biology (1-4 S.H.)
In-depth study of an emerging field or relevant issue of special interest to faculty or advanced students of biology. Lecture only, or lecture and laboratory. Topic announced in advance. May be repeated for credit as topics change. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and BIOL 312. Offered according to demand and staffing availability.
430 - Molecular Biology (3 S.H.)
A study of the various molecular aspects of DNA, RNA, and protein structure, function, and expression. Topics include DNA replication, DNA transcription into RNA, RNA translation to protein, DNA repair mechanisms, plasmids and transposons, recombinant DNA and genetic engineering, and regulation of gene activity in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, BIOL 312, and CHEM 340. Offered yearly.
431 - Molecular Biology Laboratory (4 S.H.)
An intensive laboratory course introducing modern methods and instrumentation in molecular biology. Selected exercises in recombinant DNA technology, including DNA isolation and quantification, restriction enzyme analysis, gene cloning, Southern hybridization, DNA amplification via the polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing and introduction to sequence analysis software. Prerequisites: BIOL 430 or concurrent enrollment; instructor’s permission. Offered yearly.
440 - Clinical Physiology (3 S.H.)
This course will review applied theory and practice in clinical chemistry and human physiology. This will be a review of basic and advanced information in clinical laboratory chemistry and how it relates to patient health and care. Laboratory and discussions. Prerequisites: BIOL 323 and admission into the Clinical Laboratory Science program. Offered yearly.
441 - Comparative Vertebrate Physiology (3 S.H.)
Lectures and demonstrations provide an understanding of physiological mechanisms in an evolutionary context. Focus will be on organismal physiology, but will also include mechanisms of interaction between the cellular, tissue, organ, and organismal levels. Topics include temperature, water and solutes, respiration/circulation, sensory/nervous systems, endocrinology/reproduction. Prerequisites: BIOL 241, BIOL 242, BIOL 312, BIOL 308, and CHEM 340 or CHEM 350. Offered alternate years.
442 - Clinical Laboratory Management (1 S.H.)
A comprehensive presentation of information relating to management skills within the clinical laboratory, including organizational structure, job descriptions, personnel and financial management, revenue generation, measurement standards, and compliance with governmental regulations. Grade only. Prerequisite: Admission into the Clinical Laboratory Science program. Offered yearly.
443 - Urinalysis (1 S.H.)
An introduction to the clinical study of human urine for students majoring in medical technology. The topics included are physiology, methodologies, and test performance as well as clinical significance in the areas of urinalysis, cerebrospinal fluids, and gastric analysis. Laboratory only. Letter grade only. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and CHEM 340. Offered yearly.
444 - Immunochemistry and Hematology (2 S.H.)
Study of blood and blood-forming tissues for medical technology majors. Includes development, cytology, immunocytology, histology, and functions of all formed elements and plasma composition. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and CHEM 340 or CHEM 350. Offered yearly.
445 - Immunology (3 S.H.)
An introduction to the theory and practice of modern immunology. Emphasis on the immune response in humans. Lecture only. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and CHEM 340. Offered yearly.
446 - Immunology Laboratory (1 S.H.)
This course introduces students to the theory and application of modern immunological techniques. Topics include antibody detection methods using precipitation, agglutination, ELISA, western blot analysis, immunofluorescence, and immunoelectrophoresis. Other methods include SDS-PAGE, antigen preparation, protein analysis, T Cell isolation, and differential white blood cell counts. Prerequisite: Concurrent or previous enrollment in BIOL 445. Offered yearly.
450, 451 - Medical Technology I and II (12 S.H. each)
Laboratory medicine. Courses and content to be determined by the Director of Laboratories, Educational Coordinator, and staff of the affiliated hospital. Letter grade only. Prerequisite: Medical technology majors with senior standing and instructor’s permission. Offered yearly.
452, 453 - Medical Technology III and IV (4 S.H. each)
Laboratory medicine. Courses and content to be determined by the Director of Laboratories, Educational Coordinator, and staff of the affiliated hospital. Letter grade only. Prerequisite: Medical technology majors with senior standing and instructor’s permission. Offered yearly.
460 - General Parasitology (3 S.H.)
An introduction to the study of parasites of humans and domestic animals, and the etiology of associated pathologic states. This course is especially intended for students in the medical technology program. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and CHEM 340. Offered yearly.
462 - Parasitology (4 S.H.)
This course will examine medically and veterinary important parasites of the world. Each parasite will be studied thoroughly to include details of taxonomic classification, host spectrum, geographic distribution, morphology, life cycle requirements, pathogenesis, control measures, and public health significance. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, and CHEM 340 or instructor’s permission. Offered yearly.
470 - Histology (4 S.H.)
A microscopic study of animal cells, tissues, and organs and correlating structure and function. Emphasis is placed on the mammal. Laboratory includes histotechniques for preparing sections and histochemical staining. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, CHEM 212, and CHEM 213. Offered yearly.
481, 482 - Cytotechnology I and II (12 S.H. each)
Cytotechnology clinical education. Courses and content to be determined by the program director, educational coordinator, and staff of the affiliated clinical education facility. Letter grade only. Prerequisites: Cytotechnology major with senior standing and instructor’s permission. Offered yearly.
483, 484 - Cytotechnology III and IV (4 S.H. each)
Cytotechnology clinical education. Courses and content to be determined by the program director, educational coordinator, and staff of the affiliated clinical education facility. Letter grade only. Prerequisites: Cytotechnology major with senior standing and instructor’s permission. Offered yearly.
490 - Issues in Biology (3 S.H.)
A course, intended for seniors, that promotes student understanding of the interrelated concerns of society and biology. Students will explore the social, ethical, and political implications of current issues in biology. Next, students will analyze a specific issue, develop arguments and counter-arguments used by opposing positions, write a formal paper documenting at least two opposing views, and defend a position in a formal debate. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, BIOL 312 and senior standing or instructor’s permission. Offered yearly.
495 - Seminar in Biology (1 S.H.)
Students prepare an in-depth written paper and/or an oral presentation based on original biological literature, and learn to access and use scientific
databases. May be taken twice for credit. Prerequisite: Senior standing or instructor’s permission. Offered each semester.
496 - Undergraduate Thesis (1 S.H.)
Students who have completed an extensive undergraduate research project (such as the projects completed by students in the Honors in Biology Program) are given the opportunity to work closely with a professor in writing and editing their own undergraduate theses. The finished thesis is expected to be an example of excellent collegiate scholarship and writing in scientific style. The manuscript will correctly use and cite appropriate current literature. Prerequisite: Instructor’s permission. Offered each semester.
499 - Capstone Project (1-3 S.H.)
An opportunity for an advanced biology student to work with a faculty member on an independent research project to fulfill the capstone requirement. Written report on results of research required. May be repeated to a maximum of 3 S.H. Prerequisites: BIOL 308, BIOL 310, BIOL 312, and instructor’s permission. Offered each semester.
