University Catalog

BIOL 1301. NUTRITION. 3 Hours. (TCCN = BIOL 1322)

Nutrients essential to an adequate diet and good health and the nutritive values of common foods are reviewed. Offered as BIOL 1301 and HEED 1301: credit will be granted for only one of these courses. Students seeking certification in Health Education must enroll in HEED 1301. Students seeking credit toward their science requirement must enroll in BIOL 1301. May not be used for biology grade point calculation or biology credit toward a BS degree in biology, microbiology, or medical technology.

BIOL 1302. RESEARCH METHODS IN SCIENCE. 3 Hours.

This course has four main objectives: (1) provide quantitative, critical thinking, and communication skills as well as basic concepts in science; (2) kindle a passion and facility for scientific inquiry; (3) develop skills for experimental design, execution, analysis, and presentation; and (4) expose the student to what it means to be a scientist and what it feels like to conduct research. The course will involve lecture, discussion, and laboratory time. Students will develop independent research inquiries using the scientific method, create an original research proposal and corresponding experiments, analyze results, and present their conclusions to their peers through formal oral, written, and other communication methods such as posters and demonstrations. Offered as BIOL 1302 and CHEM 1302; credit will be granted only once.

BIOL 1333. DISCOVERING BIOLOGY: MOLECULES, CELLS AND DISEASE. 3 Hours. (TCCN = BIOL 1306)

Scientific literacy is crucial for navigating health-related issues in today's society. In this lecture and lab course, non-science majors will learn about the molecules of life, the cell, energy and metabolism, cell division, genetics and inheritance and diseases, such as cancer and diabetes. This course will satisfy the laboratory science requirements for students in the Colleges of Liberal Arts and Business Administration, and in the School of Social Work. Formerly listed as BIOL 1433, credit will not be given for both.

BIOL 1334. LIFE ON EARTH: EVOLUTION, ECOLOGY AND GLOBAL CHANGE. 3 Hours. (TCCN = BIOL 1307)

Scientific literacy is crucial for understanding the natural world and our relationship to it. In this lecture and lab course, non-science majors will learn about biologically-based problems facing today's society. Course themes include evolution, antibiotic resistance, genetic diversity, animal and bacterial and plant diversity, ecosystems, ecology and global change. This course will satisfy the laboratory science requirements for students in the Colleges of Liberal Arts and Business Administration, and in the School of Social Work. Formerly listed as BIOL 1434, credit will not be given for both.

BIOL 1341. CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

The first of a three-part introductory Biology sequence, this course focuses on the chemical and molecular basis of life, including metabolism, cell structure and function, and genetics. This course may only be taken by students in the ASSURE program, and when combined with BIOL 1343 will satisfy the introductory lab requirement for Biology majors. It may satisfy the introductory lab requirement for other College of Science majors--please check with your academic advisors and/or the COS Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Research and Student Advancement.

BIOL 1342. STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF ORGANISMS. 3 Hours.

The study of structure and function in plants and animals. Topics to be covered include structure at the level of the cell, tissue, organ and individual growth, transport/circulation/gas exchange, nutrition, reproduction, development, endocrinology, and animal neural regulation. This course may only be taken by students in the ASSURE program, and is a co-requisite of BIOL 1343 to satisfy the introductory lab requirement for Biology majors. It may satisfy the introductory lab requirement for other College of Science majors--please check with your academic advisors and/or the COS Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Research and Student Advancement. Prerequisite: BIOL 1341 with a C or better or BIOL 1441 with a C or better.

BIOL 1343. RESEARCH STREAM LABORATORY I. 3 Hours.

In this laboratory course, students will learn core concepts in Biology through an intense research experience that complements material taught in BIOL 1341 and 1342. Students will master skills including quantitative data analysis, oral and written communication, and critical thinking. This course may only be taken by students in the ASSURE program. Prerequisite: BIOL 1341 or BIOL 1441. Co-requisite: BIOL 1342. Offered as CHEM 1343; credit will be granted only once.

BIOL 1345. BIOLOGY I FOR NURSING STUDENTS. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on the chemical and molecular basis of life, including metabolism, cell structure and function, and genetics to provide knowledge of these subjects for those pursuing a degree in nursing. Note: This course cannot be applied for credit toward a degree in Biology.

BIOL 1441. CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY. 4 Hours. (TCCN = BIOL 1406)

(BIOL 1406) This course focuses on the chemical and molecular basis of life, including metabolism, cell structure and function, and genetics. Laboratory experiments are designed to complement theory presented in lecture. Formerly listed as BIOL 1449; credit will not be given for both.

BIOL 1442. EVOLUTION AND ECOLOGY. 4 Hours. (TCCN = BIOL 1407)

Reviews significant aspects of organismal biology and presents current hypotheses concerning the origin and diversification of life on earth. The ecological and behavioral interactions between organisms and their biotic/abiotic environments are considered from an evolutionary perspective. The laboratory will examine evolution, ecology and the diversity of life using hands-on observational and experimental approaches. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441.

BIOL 2300. BIOSTATISTICS. 3 Hours.

Introduction to the collection, description, and analysis of data with statistical methods appropriate for biological sciences. Specific topics covered include but are not limited to: descriptive statistics, frequency distributions, random sampling, probabilities, binomial distribution, normal distribution theory and calculations, confidence intervals, t-tests (independent sample and paired designs), Chi-square tests (one-way and two-way analysis), analysis of variance, correlation and linear regression. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441 and BIOL 1442, or permission of the instructor.

BIOL 2317. BASIC CONCEPTS IN HUMAN SEXUALITY. 3 Hours.

The physiological, psychological, and sociological aspects of human sexuality. Offered as BIOL 2317, HEED 2317, PSYC 2317, and WOMS 2317. Credit will be granted for one of these courses only. Students seeking certification in Health Education must enroll in HEED 2317. Students seeking credit toward their science requirement must enroll in BIOL 2317. May not be used for biology grade point calculation or biology credit toward a BS degree in biology, microbiology, medical technology, psychology, or sociology.

BIOL 2343. EVOLUTION & ECOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Reviews significant aspects of organismal biology and presents current hypotheses concerning the origin and diversification of life on earth. The ecological and behavioral interactions between organisms and their biotic/abiotic environments are considered from an evolutionary perspective. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441.

BIOL 2457. HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I. 4 Hours. (TCCN = BIOL 2401)

Functional morphology of humans, cellular function, principles of support and movement, and neural and endocrine control systems. Laboratory exercises involve both anatomical and experimental aspects of principles introduced in the lecture. This class is designed for students in sport activities (EXSA), medical technology and pre-nursing. Prerequisite: BIOL 1345 or BIOL 1441 or equivalent, or approval of the department. May not be used for biology grade point calculation or biology credit toward a B.S. degree in biology or microbiology.

BIOL 2458. HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II. 4 Hours. (TCCN = BIOL 2402)

Functional morphology of humans, maintenance of the human body, and continuity of life. Topics will include the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, immune, and reproductive systems. Laboratory exercises explore both anatomical and experimental aspects of principles introduced in the lecture. This class is designed for students in sport activities (EXSA), medical technology, and pre-nursing. Prerequisite: BIOL 2457 or equivalent. May not be used for biology grade point calculation or biology credit toward a B.S. degree in biology or microbiology.

BIOL 2460. NURSING MICROBIOLOGY. 4 Hours.

The intention of this course is to present basic information, relevant to nursing practice, with the principles of microbiology and the nature of microbial disease. This course will give the nursing student a fundamental background of knowledge that will be applicable to the care of infectious patients, to the control of microbial diseases, and an understanding of microorganisms. The laboratory will provide practice in aseptic techniques, the use of disinfectants and antimicrobial agents, and microscopic study of bacteria. This course cannot be applied for credit toward a degree in Biology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1345, or BIOL 1441 or equivalent.

BIOL 3101. CURRENT TOPICS IN BIOLOGY. 1 Hour.

Seminar on significant topics and issues in modern biology. Students will present seminars on selected topics and participate in discussions of those topics. Topics will vary depending on instructor. This course will satisfy the oral communication competency required in Biology. May be repeated once for biology credit.

BIOL 3131. SERVICE LEARNING. 1 Hour.

Service learning is a credit-bearing learning experience; therefore, credit is awarded for academic learning and not for service hours. Students engage in classroom activities, assignments, and discussions and in addition, integrate course content and learning outcomes with genuine community needs or issues. Collaborations with the community result in relationship-building and partnerships through intentional, structured service experiences. Students are required to analyze and evaluate these experiences by engaging in reflective activities, such as discussion and journaling. This process of structured service and learning in the community promote a sense of civic responsibility and commitment to others. Students commit to serve weekly time resulting in at least fifteen hours during one semester. This time is agreed upon by student, faculty, and community agency. Prerequisite: Permission of the Instructor.

BIOL 3149. COOPERATIVE PROGRAM IN BIOLOGY. 1 Hour.

The purpose of this course is to allow students to earn college credit for relevant field work in the areas of biology and microbiology. Students must apply for the program and be cleared for registration during the semester prior to enrollment. These courses are offered on a pass/fail basis.

BIOL 3170. LIMNOLOGY LABORATORY. 1 Hour.

A laboratory and field-based course designed to acquaint the student with common laboratory practices in the study of inland waters. Prerequisite: BIOL 3318 or concurrent enrollment.

BIOL 3231. SERVICE LEARNING. 2 Hours.

Service learning is a credit-bearing learning experience; therefore, credit is awarded for academic learning and not for service hours. Students engage in classroom activities, assignments, and discussions and in addition, integrate course content and learning outcomes with genuine community needs or issues. Collaborations with the community result in relationship-building and partnerships through intentional, structured service experiences. Students are required to analyze and evaluate these experiences by engaging in reflective activities, such as discussion and journaling. This process of structured service and learning in the community promote a sense of civic responsibility and commitment to others. Students commit to serve weekly time resulting in at least fifteen hours during one semester. This time is agreed upon by student, faculty, and community agency. Prerequisite: Permission of the Instructor.

BIOL 3249. COOPERATIVE PROGRAM IN BIOLOGY. 2 Hours.

The purpose of this course is to allow students to earn college credit for relevant field work in the areas of biology and microbiology. Students must apply for the program and be cleared for registration during the semester prior to enrollment. These courses are offered on a pass/fail basis.

BIOL 3301. CELL PHYSIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

An introduction to the basic physical, chemical, and biological principles which govern function in eukaryotic cells, and the relationships between cells and their environments. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441. CHEM 2181 and CHEM 2321 are recommended.

BIOL 3303. DRUGS AND BEHAVIOR. 3 Hours.

A survey of the psychoactive agents, their therapeutic uses, and social abuses. Alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, narcotics, hallucinogens, stimulants, and tranquilizers. Offered as BIOL 3303, HEED 3303, and PSYC 3303; credit will be granted only once. May not be used for biology grade point calculation or biology credit toward a B.S. degree in biology, microbiology, or medical technology. Students seeking certification in health education must enroll in HEED 3303.

BIOL 3305. SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL WRITING. 3 Hours.

Study and application of the written and verbal communication skills involved in gathering, analyzing, and distributing scientific and technical information efficiently and accurately for specific scientific audiences. Can be used to satisfy the Technical Writing portion of English, Technical Writing and Speech requirement. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441 and BIOL 1442, or permission of the instructor.

BIOL 3310. SELECTED TOPICS IN BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Topics in biology not treated in the regular curriculum. Topic, format, and prerequisites to be determined by the instructor. May be repeated for biology elective credit as different topics are offered. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442.

BIOL 3311. SELECTED TOPICS IN MICROBIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Topics in microbiology not treated in the regular curriculum. Topic, format, and prerequisites to be determined by the instructor. May be repeated for microbiology elective credit as different topics are offered. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 3444.

BIOL 3312. IMMUNOBIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

An introduction to the components, properties, and manifestations of the adaptive immune response that occurs in vertebrates. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 3444. CHEM 2181, CHEM 2321 are recommended.

BIOL 3315. GENETICS. 3 Hours.

Principles of molecular and classical genetics. The function and transmission of hereditary material in microorganisms, plants, and animals, including humans. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441.

BIOL 3316. ASTROBIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

This is an interdisciplinary course between astrophysics, biology and geology. Topics include properties of life, origin and evolution of life on Earth, mass extinctions, extremophiles, search for life in the Solar System, space missions, stellar habitable zones, SETI, Fermi paradox, Drake equation. Offered as BIOL 3316, GEOL 3316 and PHYS 3316; credit will be granted only once. Prerequisites: PHYS 1441 & PHYS 1442 or equivalent and PHYS 2315 or PHYS 3315, or permission from instructor. Prerequisites for Biology majors: PHYS 1441 & PHYS 1442 or equivalent and BIOL 3315.

BIOL 3317. GENOMICS. 3 Hours.

This course presents an integrative approach to genome science, combining elements of genetics, state of the art technologies in genomic analysis. A basic knowledge of genetics and probability concepts is required. Use of the World Wide Web will be an essential part of the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315 or permission of instructor.

BIOL 3318. LIMNOLOGY. 3 Hours.

The living and nonliving components of inland waters. An introduction to the geological, physical, and chemical background, and to the major organisms and ecological processes. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442 or equivalent.

BIOL 3319. HUMAN GENETICS. 3 Hours.

This course will enable students to comprehend the basic principles of genetics applied to human inheritance and disease, to interpret the research strategies aimed to identify and study the genes responsible for diverse functions and traits, as well as to assess the consequences of the genetic technologies in our society. Prerequisites: BIOL 1441 and BIOL 3315.

BIOL 3322. BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR. 3 Hours.

An introduction to the anatomical structures and physiological processes that determine behavior. Topics include the acquisition and processing of sensory information, the neural control of movement, and the biological bases of complex behaviors (such as learning, memory, sex, language, and addiction), as well as the basic functioning of the nervous system. Offered as BIOL 3322 and PSYC 3322. Credit will be granted only once. BIOL 3322 prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442. PSYC 3322 prerequisite: BIOL 1441 or PSYC 1315.

BIOL 3325. PLANT ECOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Introduction to the field of plant ecology including physiological, population, community, and ecosystem ecology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1442.

BIOL 3326. ANIMAL BEHAVIOR. 3 Hours.

A survey of research and theory comparing behavior at various phyletic levels. Offered as BIOL 3326 and PSYC 3326. Credit will be granted for only one of these courses. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442.

BIOL 3327. MICROBIAL DIVERSITY. 3 Hours.

This course is an introduction to the great diversity of microbial life. The topic material explores this diversity by considering the great age of bacteria, their evolution, biochemistry, habitat and form. The course of study focuses attention on organisms not commonly encountered in General Microbiology laboratories. Prerequisite: BIOL 3444 Microbiology.

BIOL 3328. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

An introduction to the principles, methodology, and practical applications and implications of environmental microbiology. Lecture topics include habitat and community approaches to environmental microbiology, measures of microbial populations and activities, interactions among microbial communities, the role of microorganisms in the origin of mineral resources, microorganisms and pollution, and current developments on energy flow through microbial communities. Prerequisite: BIOL 3444.

BIOL 3331. SERVICE LEARNING. 3 Hours.

Service learning is a credit-bearing learning experience; therefore, credit is awarded for academic learning and not for service hours. Students engage in classroom activities, assignments, and discussions and in addition, integrate course content and learning outcomes with genuine community needs or issues. Collaborations with the community result in relationship-building and partnerships through intentional, structured service experiences. Students are required to analyze and evaluate these experiences by engaging in reflective activities, such as discussion and journaling. This process of structured service and learning in the community promote a sense of civic responsibility and commitment to others. Students commit to serve weekly time resulting in at least fifteen hours during one semester. This time is agreed upon by student, faculty, and community agency. Prerequisite: Permission of the Instructor.

BIOL 3339. INTRODUCTION TO EVOLUTION. 3 Hours.

The goals of this course are: to introduce students to the process of evolution, the patterns that result, and the way that evolutionary history has shaped the diversity of organisms on Earth; to explore how evolutionary biologists formulate and test hypotheses; to investigate applications of evolutionary biology to mainstream medical research; and to investigate current controversies in evolutionary biology. Prerequisites: BIOL 1441 and BIOL 3315 (or equivalent), or permission of instructor.

BIOL 3340. BIOINFORMATICS. 3 Hours.

This course is an applied introduction to bioinformatics and computational genomics. The course is geared toward the student with a biology background and limited programming experience. The course provides an entrance to commonly used programming/scripting languages and an introduction to numerous aspects of modern genomic data analyses (e.g. identification of coding and regulatory features in novel sequences, expression analysis, and comparative/phylogenetic analyses). Prerequisite: BIOL 1442 and BIOL 3315, or permission of instructor.

BIOL 3343. RESEARCH STREAM LABORATORY II. 3 Hours.

In this laboratory course, students will continue their research experience from BIOL 1343. This course may only be taken by students in the ASSURE program. Offered as CHEM 2343; credit will be granted only once. Prerequisites: BIOL 1341 or BIOL 1441, BIOL 1342 or BIOL 1442, BIOL 1343, BIOL 1302.

BIOL 3345. HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Study of human function from the cellular through organismal levels. Attention will be paid to the interrelationships between physiological research and medicine. Will give students a knowledge of the basic principles of structure, function and functional integration of human tissues and organs. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441 and BIOL 1442.

BIOL 3349. COOPERATIVE PROGRAM IN BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

The purpose of this course is to allow students to earn college credit for relevant field work in the areas of biology and microbiology. Students must apply for the program and be cleared for registration during the semester prior to enrollment. These courses are offered on a pass/fail basis.

BIOL 3352. INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC LAB SCIENCE. 3 Hours.

An introduction to the various disciplines of Forensic Science including DNA analysis, drug analysis, and firearms basics. Laboratory consists of hands-on investigation of mock crime scenes, fingerprint enhancement methods, and biological analysis of fluids. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, CHEM 1441.

BIOL 3355. TOXICOLOGY. 3 Hours.

An introduction to the general principles of toxicology with an emphasis on certain classes of toxic agents, their sources and toxic effects, as well as their environmental fates. Pollution of various media (air, water and soil) and the differences between them will be discussed. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441 or 4 hours of BIOLTRAN; CHEM 1441 and CHEM 1442.

BIOL 3356. ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS, BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS. 3 Hours.

Biological components of environmental systems. Population dynamics, species interactions, community structure, biodiversity, bioenergetics, nutrient cycling and human impacts are reviewed. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442.

BIOL 3357. MARINE BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Principles of oceanographic and ocean circulation, adaptations of marine organisms to their environment, ecological principles of marine biology and human impacts on the sea. Prerequites: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442.

BIOL 3420. GENETICS METHODS LAB. 4 Hours.

Computational and experimental approach to genomics research. The course theme will be transposable elements. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315.

BIOL 3427. PLANT SCIENCE. 4 Hours.

A survey of plant science including the importance of plants to people and the human side of botany: the structure, reproduction, physiology, and classification of plants. The laboratory includes the study of structure, function, reproduction, and classification of plants. Replaces BIOL 3327 and BIOL 3183. Credit cannot be given for BIOL 3427 and BIOL 3327 and 3183. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442 or equivalent.

BIOL 3442. PRINCIPLES OF ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY. 4 Hours.

A comparative study of animal function. Evidence from different groups of animals, particularly the vertebrates, to identify the general principles of physiological mechanisms operating at the cellular, tissue, organ, and organismal levels. Laboratory studies will complement lecture material and will stress experimental design, data analysis, and the understanding of critical research in physiology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442. BIOL 3301 recommended.

BIOL 3444. GENERAL MICROBIOLOGY. 4 Hours.

Fundamental principals of microbiology including the structure and function of microbial cells and their activities in nature. Bacteria will be used in the laboratory to provide training and experimental methodology. Formerly listed as BIOL 2451; credit will not be granted for both. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441 and one year of Chemistry.

BIOL 3445. METHODS IN MOLECULAR MICROBIOLOGY. 4 Hours.

An overview of different techniques used during manipulation of microorganisms. It will allow students to gain an historical perspective of techniques used in microbiology as well as learn state of the art molecular characterization of microorganisms and their genetic manipulation. Introduces biochemical, physiological, and molecular biology methods to assess community diversity and microbial activity in a variety of ecosystems. Bacterial growth and survival, population biology, and microbial interactions will also be discussed. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441 and BIOL 3444.

BIOL 3446. HUMAN ANATOMY. 4 Hours.

Study of the gross functional anatomy of the human body. Students will participate in laboratory exercises designed to familiarize them with human anatomical structures and their functions. Use of eponyms for anatomical terms will be minimized. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442 or 8 hours of Bioltran.

BIOL 3452. COMPARATIVE VERTEBRATE ANATOMY. 4 Hours.

A comparative study of the anatomy of the protochordates and the vertebrates. The laboratory includes a detailed study of the shark and the cat. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442. BIOL 3454 recommended, but not required.

BIOL 3454. GENERAL ZOOLOGY. 4 Hours.

An overview of animal life including the diversity and evolution of major animal phyla, reproduction, development and aspects of physiological function. The laboratory examines form, function and phyletic relationships in a wide variety of animal types. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, or equivalent, or permission of instructor.

BIOL 3457. GENERAL ECOLOGY. 4 Hours.

An examination of the theoretical and experimental aspects of the relationship between the biological and physical environments (organisms, food, space, and time) at the individual, population, community, and ecosystem levels. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442.

BIOL 4089. RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY. 0 Hours.

Research problems on an individual basis, conducted under the direction of a member of the biology faculty. Prerequisite: written permission of the supervising instructor prior to registration. This is a non-credit course. Prerequisite: Written permission of the supervising instructor prior to registration.

BIOL 4179. DIRECTED STUDY. 1 Hour.

Independent study by individual students in biology under the supervision of a biology faculty member. Topics must be approved by the supervising faculty member. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, and permission of instructor.

BIOL 4189. RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY. 1 Hour.

Research problems on an individual basis, conducted under the direction of a member of the biology faculty. A limit of two hours per semester is imposed and only a total of three hours may be counted toward degree requirements. These courses are offered only on a pass/fail basis. Prerequisite:written permission of the supervising instructor prior to registration.

BIOL 4279. DIRECTED STUDY. 2 Hours.

Independent study by individual students in biology under the supervision of a biology faculty member. Topics must be approved by the supervising faculty member. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, and permission of instructor.

BIOL 4289. RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY. 2 Hours.

Research problems on an individual basis, conducted under the direction of a member of the biology faculty. A limit of two hours per semester is imposed and only a total of three hours may be counted toward degree requirements. These courses are offered only on a pass/fail basis. Prerequisite:written permission of the supervising instructor prior to registration.

BIOL 4302. MICROBIAL GENETICS. 3 Hours.

Consideration of the physical, chemical, and functional nature of genetic processes in micro-organisms. Prerequisite: BIOL 3444, or permission of instructor.

BIOL 4307. MOLECULAR EVOLUTION. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on understanding how genes and genomes evolve at the molecular level. Molecular biology provides the data while population genetics provides the theoretical framework. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315, BIOL 3339.

BIOL 4308. GENOME ANALYSIS. 3 Hours.

This course will provide students with hands-on experience in genome analysis. Topics covered include population genomics, phylogenomics, genome assembly, genome annotation, and the analysis of repetitive elements and genome structure. Students will learn the computational tools to analyze genomes, including Unix/Linux, Perl programming, and database management. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315 or consent of the instructor.

BIOL 4309. NEUROPHARMACOLOGY. 3 Hours.

A survey of how drugs affect the nervous system. General topics will include cellular and molecular foundations of neuropharmacology, receptors and modulation of neural signaling. The specific role of neurotransmitter systems (i.e. acetylcholine, dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and opiate) will be explored. Offered as BIOL 4309 and PSYC 4309; credit will be granted only once. Prerequisite: one or more of the following courses or permission of instructor: BIOL 1441 or PSYC 3322/BIOL 3322 or BIOL 3301.

BIOL 4312. INTRODUCTION TO VIROLOGY. 3 Hours.

The nature, reproduction, and host cell interactions of viruses and virus-like agents of bacteria, animals, and plants. Prerequisite: BIOL 3444.

BIOL 4315. GENERAL ENDOCRINOLOGY. 3 Hours.

The vertebrate endocrine system. The cellular origin of hormones, their role in physiological regulation, and the mechanism of hormone action. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, BIOL 3301, BIOL 3315; at least one physiology course, and senior standing.

BIOL 4317. BACTERIAL PATHOGENESIS. 3 Hours.

Host-pathogen relationships in microbial diseases. Topics include bacterium-host interactions; pathogens and pathogenic factors; techniques in pathogenesis research; molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis by major bacterial pathogens; antimicrobial compounds and resistance to antibiotics; and discussion of human genomics and susceptibility to infections. Prerequisites: BIOL 3312, BIOL 3444.

BIOL 4327. BEHAVIORAL GENETICS. 3 Hours.

Genetic influences on behavioral phenotypes. Research strategies, quantitative methods, and pharmacogenetic approaches to the brain; sociality and altruism; the personality, emotionality and intelligence; psychopathology; chromosomal abnormalities; forensic implications of genetic counseling. Also offered as BIOL 4327; credit will be granted only once. Students seeking credit toward the science requirement must enroll in BIOL 4327. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315 or PSYC 2444.

BIOL 4329. NEURAL ENGINEERING. 3 Hours.

This course consists of both lecture/discussion and laboratory. Lecture topics include central and peripheral nervous system injury and regeneration, brain/machine interfacing, primary culture of neural cells, neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disease. Laboratories include embryonic and neonatal rat derived neuronal culturing, immunostaining and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: BIOL 3301, CSE 1310, CHEM 2322, and MATH 3319.

BIOL 4331. ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Molecular biology, protein-nucleic acid interactions, nucleic acid biochemistry, and the RNA World. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, BIOL 3315, General Chemistry (CHEM 1441 & CHEM 1442). Recommended, but not required: CHEM 2321.

BIOL 4332. POLYMERS IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING. 3 Hours.

This is a foundation course in polymeric biomaterial design, synthesis, characterization, and processing. The topics include design, surface-engineering, functionalization, characterization, as well as micro- and nano-fabrication of polymeric biomaterials. The biomedical applications of the polymeric biomaterials and their interaction with cell/tissue is discussed. Prerequisite: BIOL 3301, CSE 1310, CHEM 2322 and MATH 3319.

BIOL 4333. NANOBIOMATERIALS. 3 Hours.

Synthesis, fabrication, characterization, and biomedical applications of nanobiomaterials. Topics include synthetic nanobiomaterials, biological nanobiomaterials (DNA nanomaterials, protein and peptide nanomaterials, etc.), biofunctionalization of nanobiomaterials, use of nanobiomaterials in tissue engineering, drug delivery, gene delivery. Prerequisites: BIOL 3301, CSE 1310, CHEM 2322, and MATH 3319.

BIOL 4338. COMMUNITY ECOLOGY. 3 Hours.

The effects interspecific interactions have on the distribution and abundance of organisms. Prerequisite:BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, and three semester hours of ecology.

BIOL 4345. MICROBIAL PHYSIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

This course considers the anatomy and physiology of the bacterial cell in detail. Lecture topics consider the molecular architecture of cell walls, membranes and organelles, synthesis of wall material and membranes, insertion of proteins into membranes and regulation of biosynthetic systems at the whole cell level. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441 and BIOL 3444. CHEM 4311 recommended.

BIOL 4350. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Introduction to theory and practice of conservation biology, with emphasis on applications of modern quantitative and genetic techniques to preservation of organisms and habitats. Topics include identification and prioritization of units for protection; conservation genetics; preserve design; public policy issues; and case studies. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315 or equivalent (Genetics), or permission of the instructor.

BIOL 4352. FORENSIC BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

A comprehensive review of biological principles, applied to forensic science, including sample recovery and handling, analytical techniques, profile matching/exclusion, reporting, and testimony. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315; statistics course recommended; or permission of instructor.

BIOL 4355. METHODS IN FORENSIC BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Analysis of typical biological evidentiary samples including extraction of DNA, quantitation, amplification and electrophoresis of examples. Instrumentation utilized includes thermal cyclers and ABI 377 genetic analyzer. Prerequisite: BIOL 4352 or concurrent enrollment.

BIOL 4357. HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY. 3 Hours.

This course provides a broad introduction to health psychology and its interface with the medical world. The course provides a balanced presentation of the important issues in the field, as well as specific content topics that are especially relevant today to better understand health and illness. Offered as BIOL 4357, HEED 4357, and PSYC 4357. Students seeking science requirement credit must enroll in BIOL 4357; students seeking Certification in Health must enroll in HEED 4357. Prerequisite: PSYC 1315 or BIOL 1333 or BIOL 1441 or BIOL 2457; junior standing recommended.

BIOL 4365. TISSUE ENGINEERING LAB. 3 Hours.

Each student will be given the opportunity to perform the techniques commonly used in tissue engineering and biomaterial research. These techniques are culture media preparation, cell culture/subculture, degradable scaffold preparation, scaffold modification, histological sections and staining, and cell imaging analyses. Prerequisites: BIOL 3301, CSE 1310, CHEM 2322, and MATH 3319.

BIOL 4379. DIRECTED STUDY. 3 Hours.

Independent study by individual students in biology under the supervision of a biology faculty member. Topics must be approved by the supervising faculty member. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, and permission of instructor.

BIOL 4388. INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES IN BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Students will participate in laboratory instruction and student recitation sessions under the supervision of a faculty member. A maximum of 3 hours can be applied to the major for biology or microbiology credit. Enrollment by departmental permission only. A maximum of 6 hours credit from this class will be used to calculate a student's grade point average. Students on probation or who have not qualified for major status may not enroll in this course.

BIOL 4393. HONORS SENIOR PROJECT IN BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

A topic will be selected after consultation with a supervising professor and will involve both original research and writing a formal report. The work will be evaluated by a faculty honors committee. Completion of this course will satisfy the thesis requirement for the Honors College described elsewhere in this catalog.

BIOL 4395. FORENSICS-EL PA. 3 Hours.

BIOL 4421. ADVANCED TOPICS IN NEUROSCIENCE. 4 Hours.

This course will cover current topics in Neuroscience using an interactive, participatory format that includes a lecture portion and a laboratory section. The course will focus on specific content topics that are especially relevant today to better understand and use advanced concepts in Neuroscience research. Completion of this course is essential for students who are interested in pursuing a career in Neuroscience research. Offered as BIOL 4421 or PSYC 4421. Credit will be granted only once. Junior standing recommended. Prerequisite: C or better in BIOL 3322 or PSYC 3322.

BIOL 4440. LABORATORY METHODS IN BACTERIAL PATHOGENESIS. 4 Hours.

This course is intended to expose students to research techniques for studying bacterial pathogens. Students will use molecular and classical techniques to isolate, identify, and characterize bacteria and their response to stimuli. Techniques will range from polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gene sequencing, sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Immunofluorescence Microscopy. Prerequisites: BIOL 3312, BIOL 3444, BIOL 4317, or permission of instructor.

BIOL 4444. VERTEBRATE NATURAL HISTORY. 4 Hours.

Lecture will cover the systematics, life histories, morphology, ethology and distribution of world vertebrates, with emphasis on tetrapods. The laboratory will provide the opportunity to examine and identify a taxonomically comprehensive collection of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Prerequisite: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442.

BIOL 5101. SPECIAL TOPICS IN BIOLOGY. 1 Hour.

Seminar on significant biological research. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5102. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT. 1 Hour.

This course will provide senior graduate students with important information regarding various aspects of their professional development including job searching, interviewing, stress and time management, and professional ethics.

BIOL 5193. RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY. 1 Hour.

Conference course in which the student undertakes intensive investigation of topics under the supervision of a staff member. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 5291. INDIVIDUAL PROBLEMS IN BIOLOGY. 2 Hours.

Individual research projects supervised by a faculty member. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5293. RESEARCH. 2 Hours.

BIOL 5301. LABORATORY ROTATION. 3 Hours.

This course is an elective designed to enable students to choose a major advisor and laboratory. Rotations among two or three faculty laboratories will familiarize students with faculty research interests, sharpen individual research skills, and expose students to different study systems, instruments, and research methods. May only be taken once for credit by MS students; may be repeated for credit once by Ph.D. students.

BIOL 5302. MICROBIAL GENETICS. 3 Hours.

Consideration of the nature, expression and regulation of the genetic processes in micro-organisms. Prerequisites: BIOL 2451 and BIOL 3315 or consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5304. VIROLOGY. 3 Hours.

The nature, reproduction and host-cell interactions of viruses and animals. Emphasizes molecular aspects of viral replication and the molecular basis of pathogenesis. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5308. GENOME ANALYSIS. 3 Hours.

This course will provide students with hands-on experience in genome analysis. Topics covered include population genomics, phylogenomics, genome assembly, genome annotation, and the analysis of repetitive elements and genome structure. Students will learn the computational tools to analyze genomes, including Unix/Linux, Perl programming, and database management. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315.

BIOL 5309. IMMUNOBIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

This course is designed to acquaint students with the cellular processes involved in the generation of an immune response. It will provide students with detailed knowledge of the cells and organs of the immune system, their organization and diversity and their specialized functions at different anatomical locations. The importance of immune cell receptors and cytokines in cellular interactions and co-ordination of immunological mechanisms is also emphasized.

BIOL 5310. SELECTED TOPICS IN BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Topics may vary depending on the needs and interests of the students. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: consent of the student's thesis committee and the current course instructor.

BIOL 5311. EVOLUTION. 3 Hours.

Study of the origin of living systems and the mechanism of their evolution. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315 or equivalent or consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5312. ADVANCED GENETICS. 3 Hours.

Mechanisms of transmission and function of genetic material. Covers fundamental concepts in transmission genetics including: genotype/phenotype relationships; inheritance; linkage; genome organization; and gene expression. Experimental and quantitative approaches to genetic analyses are emphasized. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5314. BIOMETRY. 3 Hours.

An examination of statistical methods and procedures in relation to the design of biological experiments and the analysis of their results. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5315. COMMUNITY ECOLOGY. 3 Hours.

An investigation of the effects of interspecific interactions on the distribution and abundance of organisms. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5317. BACTERIAL PATHOGENESIS. 3 Hours.

Host-pathogen relationships in microbial dieseases. Topics include bacterium-host interactions, pathogens and pathogenic factors: techniques in pathogenesis research: molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis by major bacterial pathogens; antimicrobial compounds and resistance to antibiotics; and discussion of human genomics and susceptibility to infections. Prerequisites: BIOL 3312 and BIOL 3444 must have a B or better in these courses.

BIOL 5319. HUMAN GENETICS. 3 Hours.

This course will enable students to comprehend the basic principles of genetics applied to human inheritance and disease, to interpret the research strategies aimed to identify and study the genes responsible for diverse functions and traits, as well as to assess the consequences of the genetic technologies in our society.

BIOL 5320. BIOGEOGRAPHY. 3 Hours.

The role of natural and artificial transport, population pressure and limiting agencies are examined in the light of the patterns of distribution of living organisms. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5325. PLANT ECOLOGY. 3 Hours.

An introduction to plant ecology including physiological, population, community and ecosystem ecology.

BIOL 5326. WETLANDS ECOLOGY. 3 Hours.

An introduction to wetland ecology including the formation of wetlands, biogeochemistry of wetland soils, hydrology and biotic adaptations to wetland environments.

BIOL 5328. LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Landscape ecology focuses on the spatial organization of the landscape mosaic and the flows of energy, nutrients, and species among landscape elements and ecosystems.

BIOL 5331. ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Molecular biology, protein-nucleic acid interactions, nucleic acid biochemistry, and the RNA World.

BIOL 5333. BIOLOGICAL MODELING. 3 Hours.

Computational and mathematical techniques for representing biological processes, including dynamical systems, simulation, and stochastic processes, using examples from ecology, evolution, and other areas of biology. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5334. MOBILE DNA MECHANISMS & REGULATION. 3 Hours.

This is a graduate course that covers the classification of transposable elements, and the mechanisms and regulation of transposition in a broad range of organisms. In addition to traditional lectures given by the instructor, students will present and discuss papers among the classic and recent literature on the topic.

BIOL 5335. ESSENTIALS OF GENOMICS. 3 Hours.

An integrative approach to genome science, combining elements of genetics, statistics and bioinformatics. Current technologies used in genomics analysis will be presented.

BIOL 5336. MOLECULAR EVOLUTION. 3 Hours.

An exploration of how genes and genomes evolve at the molecular level. The presentation uses the theoretical framework provided by population genetics to analyze molecular biology data.

BIOL 5340. BIOINFORMATICS. 3 Hours.

This course is an applied introduction to bioinformatics and computational genomics. The course is geared toward the student with a biology background and limited programming experience. The course provides an entrance to commonly used programming/scripting languages and an introduction to numerous aspects of modern genomic data analyses (e.g. identification of coding and regulatory features in novel sequences, expression analysis, and comparative/phylogenetic analyses).

BIOL 5343. REPTILE BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Diversity, systematics, distribution and behavior of major groups of reptiles. Laboratory includes museum techniques, identification and anatomical study. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5344. AMPHIBIAN BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Diversity, systematics and behavior of major groups of amphibians. Laboratory includes museum techniques, identification and anatomical study. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5346. MICROBIAL PHYSIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

This course considers the anatomy and physiology of the bacterial cell in detail. Lecture topics consider the molecular architecture of cell walls, membranes and organelles, synthesis of wall material and membranes, insertion of proteins into membranes and regulation of biosynthetic systems at the whole cell level.

BIOL 5350. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Theory and practice of conservation biology, with emphasis on applications of modern quantitative and molecular genetic techniques to preservation of organisms and habitats. Includes: identification and prioritization of units for protection; conservation genetics; preserve design; public policy; and current case studies. Prerequisites: BIOL 3315 or equivalent or consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5351. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Principles, methodology, and practical applications of environmental microbiology. Topics include: habitat and community approaches to environmental microbiology; measures of microbial populations and activities; interactions among microbial communities; role of microorganisms in the origin of mineral resources and pollution and energy flow through microbial communities. Prerequisite: BIOL 3444 or equivalent or consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5354. LIMNOLOGY. 3 Hours.

The study of biotic and abiotic components of inland waters. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5357. MARINE BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Principles of oceanography and ocean circulation, adaptations of marine organisms to their environment, ecological principles of marine biology and human impacts on the sea.

BIOL 5361. ADVANCED BIOMETRY. 3 Hours.

Topics include introduction to matrix algebra, regression, correlation,residual analysis, and multivariate statistics. Several computerized statistical packages are introduced. Prerequisite: BIOL 5314 or consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5362. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN. 3 Hours.

Various analysis of variance models will be explored including hierarchic models, multiway factorial models, Latin square designs, split plots designs, and incomplete block designs. Nonparametric methodologies and analysis of covariance techniques will also be presented. Prerequisite: BIOL 5314 or consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5364. POPULATION GENETICS. 3 Hours.

The genetics of evolution with emphasis on measuring, predicting, and modeling genetic change in populations. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5367. THEORETICAL SYSTEMATICS. 3 Hours.

Introduction to the study of organismal diversity and evolutionary relationships. Emphasizes quantitative methods for phylogeny reconstruction, and interpretation and application of molecular data. Prerequisite: BIOL 3315 and BIOL 3339 or equivalents, or consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5391. INDIVIDUAL PROBLEMS IN BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Individual research projects supervised by a faculty member. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.

BIOL 5393. RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY. 3 Hours.

Conference course in which the student undertakes intensive investigation of topics under the supervision of a staff member. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 5398. THESIS. 3 Hours.

Graded R/F only. Prerequisite: consent of faculty.

BIOL 5420. GENETICS METHODS LAB. 4 Hours.

Computational and experimental approach to genomics research. The course theme will be transposable elements.

BIOL 5421. Methods in Molecular Microbiology. 4 Hours.

This course will provide an overview of different techniques used during manipulation of microorganisms. It will allow students to gain a historical perspective of techniques used in microbiology (Winogradsky column, Koch solid agar plating) as well as learn state of the art molecular characterization of microorganisms and their genetic manipulation. This course introduces current biochemical, physiological and molecular biology methods to assess community diversity and microbial activity in a variety of ecosystems. Other topics discussed include bacterial growth and survival, population biology, and microbial interactions.

BIOL 5440. LABORATORY METHODS IN BACTERIAL PATHOGENESIS. 4 Hours.

This course in intended to expose students to research techniques for studying bacterial pathogens. Students will use molecular and classical techniques to isolate, identify and characterize bacteria and their response to stimuli. Techniques will ranger from PCR, Gene Sequencing, SDS_PAGE and Immunofuluorescence Microscopy. Prerequisites BIOL 3312, BIOL 3444, BIOL 4317.

BIOL 5493. RESEARCH. 4 Hours.

BIOL 5593. RESEARCH. 5 Hours.

BIOL 5693. RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY. 6 Hours.

Conference course in which the student undertakes intensive investigation of topics under the supervision of a staff member. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 5698. THESIS. 6 Hours.

Graded P/F/R. Prerequisite: consent of faculty.

BIOL 5998. THESIS. 9 Hours.

Graded P/F/R. Prerequisite: consent of faculty.

BIOL 6191. ADVANCED RESEARCH. 1 Hour.

Faculty supervised individual research. May be repeated for credit. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 6291. ADVANCED RESEARCH. 2 Hours.

Faculty supervised individual research. May be repeated for credit. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 6391. ADVANCED RESEARCH. 3 Hours.

Faculty supervised individual research. May be repeated for credit. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 6399. DISSERTATION. 3 Hours.

BIOL 6399 and BIOL 6699 graded R/F only; BIOL 6999 graded P/F/R. Prerequisite: admission to candidacy for the degree Doctor of Philosophy in Quantitative Biology.

BIOL 6491. ADVANCED RESEARCH. 4 Hours.

Faculty supervised individual research. May be repeated for credit. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 6591. ADVANCED RESEARCH. 5 Hours.

Faculty supervised individual research. May be repeated for credit. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 6691. ADVANCED RESEARCH. 6 Hours.

Faculty supervised individual research. May be repeated for credit. Graded P/F/R.

BIOL 6699. DISSERTATION. 6 Hours.

BIOL 6399 and BIOL 6699 graded R/F only; BIOL 6999 graded P/F/R. Prerequisite: admission to candidacy for the degree Doctor of Philosophy in Quantitative Biology.

BIOL 6999. DISSERTATION. 9 Hours.

BIOL 6399 and BIOL 6699 graded R/F only; BIOL 6999 graded P/F/R. Prerequisite: admission to candidacy for the degree Doctor of Philosophy in Quantitative Biology.

BIOL 7399. DOCTORAL DEGREE COMPLETION. 3 Hours.

This course may be taken during the semester in which a student expects to complete all requirements for the doctoral degree and graduate. Enrolling in this course meets minimum enrollment requirements for graduation, for holding fellowships awarded by The Office of Graduate Studies and for full-time GTA or GRA positions. Students should verify that enrollment in this course meets other applicable enrollment requirements. To remain eligible in their final semester of study for grants, loans or other forms of financial aid administered by the Financial Aid Office must enroll in a minimum of 5 hours as required by the Office of Financial Aid. Other funding sources may also require more than 3-hours of enrollment. Additional hours may also be required to meet to requirements set by immigration law or by the policies of the student's degree program. Students should contact the Financial Aid Office, other sources of funding, Office of International Education and/or their graduate advisor to verify enrollment requirements before registering for this course. This course may only be taken once and may not be repeated. Students who do not complete all graduation requirements while enrolled in this course must enroll in a minimum of 6 dissertation hours (6699 or 6999) in their graduation term. Graded P/F/R.