Biology

Women's College

Overview
Major
Secondary Education Certification
Minor
Pre-Medical, Pre-Dental, Pre-Veterinary Program
Biology-Pharmacy (3+4) Program
Four-Year Plan
Course Descriptions

Peter Hoffman, Ph.D, Chair
Janice M. Bonner, Ph.D.
Jennifer Kerr, Ph.D.
Kenneth Sossa, Ph.D.
Paul J. Weldon, Ph.D.
Sheara T. Williamson, Ph.D.
Rebecca Zordan, Ph.D

The biology department of the School of Arts and Sciences offers a major and minor in biology to students in the Women's College. It also offers Women's College students preparation for pharmacy, medical, dental, veterinary and graduate schools, and for secondary teaching certification. The department provides a broad view of the biological sciences that is consistent with the liberal arts tradition of the University. The curriculum incorporates emerging areas of biology; it also integrates these with traditional organismal studies. Small classes, lectures and seminars explore current trends and provide a climate for individualized learning. The laboratory facilities offer opportunities for hypothesis-driven experimentation that demands student initiative and creativity; in addition, independent student research is embedded in many courses within the major. Internships in the biological sciences or in medical or allied health fields are available during the fall, winter, spring and summer semesters. Students may pursue basic or applied research either on campus or at local universities or research institutions.

The program prepares students for employment opportunities in research laboratories, medical and government facilities, pharmaceutical companies and other industries.

The general education requirement in the natural sciences may be fulfilled by taking BIO-104 Chesapeake Bay (CAUS only), BIO-107 Human Biology, BIO-110 Exploring Concepts in Biology, BIO-111 Fundamentals of Biology, BIO-115 Environmental Science, BIO-116 Conservation Biology or BIO-150 Principles of Evolution (CAUS only).

Biology majors must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 in all courses taken to complete the requirements of the major. Grades of "C" or better in BIO-111, BIO-230 and BIO-239 are required to complete the biology major.

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Program of Study

Required Courses for a Major In Biology

BIO-111 Fundamentals of Biology (4)
BIO-230 Unity and Diversity of Life (4)
BIO-239 Genetics (4)

Six courses from the following, including either BIO-307 or BIO-311 and at least three at the 400-level
BIO-307 Ecology (4)
BIO-311 Evolution (4)
BIO-340 Microbiology (4)
BIO-341 Vertebrate Anatomy (4)
BIO-343 Animal Behavior (4)
BIO-345 Nutrition (3)
BIO-375 Molecular Techniques (3)
BIO-403 Immunology (3)
BIO-410 Cell and Molecular Biology (4)
BIO-411 Special Topics (3)
BIO-413 Neurobiology (4)
BIO-415 Developmental Biology (4)
BIO-425 Biochemistry I (4)
BIO-426 Biochemistry II (4)
BIO-431 Animal Physiology (4)
BIO-473 Biological Research (3-4)

All of the following
BIO-451 Senior Seminar (3)
CHM-110 and 111 General Chemistry I, II (8)
CHM-210 and 211 Organic Chemistry I, II (8)
One course in Mathematics (MAT-107 Elementary Functions,
MAT-215 Basic Statistics or MAT-211 Calculus I) (3 or 4)

It is strongly recommended that students intending to take upper-level chemistry courses or preparing for graduate school take
MAT-212 Calculus II (4)
PHY-101 and 102, General Physics I, II (8)

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Secondary Education Certification—Approved Program in Biology

All requirements for the major. Upper level courses must include both BIO-307 Ecology and BIO-311 Evolution. Students are required to take PHY-101 General Physics I. PHY-102 General Physics II is strongly recommended. In addition, students take the professional education courses offered by the education department.

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Minor in Biology

BIO-111 Fundamentals of Biology, BIO-239 Genetics, BIO-230 Unity and Diversity of Life, plus three additional courses in biology at least one of which must be a laboratory course.

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Pre-Medical/Pre-Dental/Pre-Veterinary Programs

All required courses for a major in biology plus General Physics I and II (PHY-101, 102), Mathematics through Calculus I (MAT-211), and Biochemistry I and II. The following course choices strongly recommended: Vertebrate Anatomy, Microbiology, Animal Physiology, Immunology and Cell and Molecular Biology. Calculus II (MAT-212) and Basic Statistics (MAT-215) are highly recommended. See pre-medical, pre-dental, pre-veterinary section.

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Biology-Pharmacy (3-4) Program

See pharmacy studies for a detailed description of program.

Liberal Arts

The student follows the program of study that is outlined in the liberal arts section of the catalog. Students should select courses with the assistance of a faculty adviser and be aware that course cycling will impact upper-level course selection.

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Biology Four-Year Plan

Sample program of study for the biology major. Many alternatives are possible; please consult a department representative to discuss options. Students should select courses with the assistance of a faculty adviser and be aware that course cycling will impact upper-level course selection.

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Course Descriptions

BIO-104 CHESAPEAKE BAY
Explores the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States, providing a unique habitat for the region's wildlife. The course will examine the physical, geological and chemical factors that affect the rich variety of plants and animals in the bay. Students will study the bay's ecosystem and the external and natural factors that affect the health of the bay. Field work on location is required. Laboratory work is integrated with lectures. Fulfills general education requirement in natural sciences. [3 credits] College of Adult Undergraduate Studies students only.

BIO-107 HUMAN BIOLOGY
Focuses on how the major body systems are organized and function. Examines various major health concerns, such as cardiovascular health, cancer, diabetes and obesity, and explains their relationship with proper body function. Emphasizes how well-informed decisions about lifestyle can keep body systems operating at their best. Laboratory exercises include application of key principles of structure and function for major body systems. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Fulfills general education requirement in natural science. Designed for non-science majors. [3-4 credits] 3 credit version for College of Adult Undergraduate Studies students only.

BIO-110 EXPLORING CONCEPTS IN BIOLOGY
Prepares students for a major in biology who would benefit first from a focus on the integration of chemistry and mathematics into their study of biology prior to attempting BIO-111. Students will develop concepts, design experiments and analyze data to solve problems that are situated in various branches of biology. Lecture and lab are combined in two-hour class meetings. Fulfills general education requirement in natural science. [4 credits]

BIO-111 FUNDAMENTALS OF BIOLOGY
Focuses on the structure and function of the fundamental unit of life, the cell. Examines basic biological molecules, membrane structure and function, basic metabolism, photosynthesis, cellular reproduction, evolution, genetics and introductory systematics. In weekly laboratory exercises, students design and conduct experiments to answer scenario-based questions. Includes independent small-group laboratory research project that culminates in a student research symposium. Three hours lecture and four hours laboratory. Designed for students with a strong high school background in biology, chemistry and mathematics. Prerequisite: MSAT greater than department-designated value or BIO-110 with minimum grade of C+, or permission of chair. Fulfills general education requirement in natural sciences.
[4 credits]

BIO-114 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE FOR EDUCATORS
Studies the interactions among the physical, chemical, biological, political and social forces which impact the environment. Provides students with scientific principles, concepts and methodologies necessary to comprehend the relationships within the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems, to evaluate relative risks associated with these identified problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing similar problems facing the global environment. Topics include the major biomes in the world, populations, biodiversity, water, air and land uses and issues, energy resources and waste management. [3 credits] College of Adult Undergraduate Studies students only.

BIO-115 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Evaluates the relationships between human populations and the natural environment. Introduces the fundamental science needed to critically analyze claims, arguments and evidence related to environmental concerns. Analyzes environmental problems and issues in terms of the underlying basic physical, chemical, and biological sciences and integrates concepts and information from many fields to support an understanding of the ecology of our planet, how we interact with it, and how our species affects the earth and its life-support systems. Laboratory sessions introduce field techniques for investigating environmental questions. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Fulfills general education requirement in natural science. Designed for non-science majors. [3-4 credits] 3 credit version for College of Adult Undergraduate Studies students only.

BIO-116 CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Analyzes the causes and repercussions of the rapid, devastating, and global extinctions of plants and animals, chiefly as a result of human activities. This course examines the range of cultural, biological and environmental factors that contribute to the loss of biodiversity and the new, integrated science of conservation biology that has developed in response to the challenge of saving species and remediating the environment. Classroom discussions will treat the essential concepts and practical knowledge necessary to ensure the perpetuation of our planet's flora and fauna. Fulfills general education requirement in natural science. Designed for non-science majors. [3-4 credits] 3 credit version for College of Adult Undergraduate Studies students only.

BIO-150 PRINCIPLES OF EVOLUTION
Describes fundamental concepts of the modern theory of evolution and provides an overview of genetic variation, adaptation, and biodiversity. Mechanisms of evolutionary change by natural selection and other agencies, theories on the origin of life, and the history of life as revealed by the fossil record and other evidence are described. Fulfills general education requirement in natural science. Designed for non-science majors. [3 credits] College of Adult Undergraduate Studies students only.

BIO-201, 202 HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I
Integrates the study of structure with function of the human body. As a suite of courses, BIO-201 and 202 are intended for students interested in satisfying requirements for pharmacy and various allied health programs. The content and level of delivery of both BIO-201 and 202 are structured so that they are compatible with similar courses offered by cooperating institutions. BIO-201 includes discussion of cellular, tissue, integumentary, skeletal, muscular and neural systems. Includes laboratory study of anatomical models of humans and skeletal components, and dissection of a cat. BIO-202 includes discussion of endocrine, circulatory, immunological, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Strongly emphasizes study of physiological functions that includes monitoring of body systems with analog and digital hardware. Each course includes three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. A competency exam covering basic chemistry and biology may be administered at the first class meeting and weighed in the final grade. To begin the course sequence, the student must complete BIO-111 or the equivalent with a minimum grade of C or obtain permission of the instructor. BIO-201 with minimum grade of C is a prerequisite for BIO-202. [4 credits each term]

BIO-205 PRINCIPLES OF NUTRITION
Focuses on basic scientific and psychosocial principles of nutrition and their application during the human life span in health and disease. Pre-nursing students only. Three hours lecture. Prerequisite: CHM-108. [3 credits]

BIO-230 UNITY AND DIVERSITY OF LIFE
Focuses on the unity of biological processes common to plants, animals and fungi, such as transport, gas exchange, and reproduction; also focuses on the diversity of organisms in their adaptation to environmental challenges. Unity and diversity are studied in both ecological and evolutionary contexts. An independent small-group research project is completed in the laboratory and culminates in a student research symposium. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO-111 with minimum grade of C or permission of the instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-239 GENETICS
Considers the mechanisms by which biological information is stored, accessed, and passed on from one generation to the next from both Mendelian and molecular genetic perspectives. Introduces basic techniques of molecular biology such as bacterial transformations, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing and sequencing analysis. Includes the use of online databases such as Pub Med and sequence analysis tools such as BLAST. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisites: BIO-111 and CHM-110, each with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-239H GENETICS: HONORS
Meets concurrently with and considers the same subject matter as BIO-239 (non-Honors). Honors students meet for an extra hour per week to concentrate on the historical and social aspects of genetics. Four hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisites: BIO-111 and CHM-110 with a minimum grade of C. [4 credits]

BIO-253 GENERAL MICROBIOLOGY
Presents basic concepts of bacteriology, virology, mycology and parasitology with a special focus on bacteria and viruses. The structure, morphology and genetics of microbes will be investigated, as well as their requirements for and patterns of growth. Other topics will include the human microbiota, mechanisms of pathogenicity, basic host defense mechanisms, antimicrobial chemotherapy and the development of microbial drug resistance. Finally, the epidemiology of infectious diseases, along with the characteristics and methods utilized in the control of classic and emerging pathogens will be addressed. In the laboratory students will learn basic aseptic transfer, staining, and culture techniques required for the isolation, identification and enumeration of microbes and will investigate various factors affecting microbial growth, including antiseptics, disinfectants, and antimicrobial drugs. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Pre-nursing students only. Prerequisites: BIO -111-281 and. CHM-108. [4 credits]

BIO-260 GENETICS AND GENOMICS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE
Considers the basics of molecular and Mendelian genetics and how they apply to human medical conditions. Uses specific examples to demonstrate general principles of human diseases and conditions with genetic causes to demonstrate general principles of Mendelian and molecular genetics. Introduces emerging concepts in the genetic and epigenetic causes of human disease. Pre-nursing students only. Prerequisites: BIO-111. [3 credits]

BIO-273 INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH
Investigates a topic of current interest in the biological sciences under faculty guidance. Includes a literature search, design and execution of original laboratory research, and data analysis. Culminates in submission of a poster to local and/or regional student research symposia. Designed for first-and second-year students. Permission of instructor required. [1-3 credits]

BIO-281, 282 HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY FOR NURSES I, II
Examines the basic structure and function of the human body. Major topics in BIO 281 include the chemistry of living organisms, cells and tissues, chemical and electrical signaling, skin and protective barriers, bones and joints, muscles, the nervous and endocrine systems, and special senses. Major topics covered in BIO 282 include blood, the cardiovascular system, innate and adaptive immunity, the lymphatic system, the respiratory system, the digestive system, metabolism, the urinary system, the reproductive system, basic genetics, and human development. This course provides a solid foundation in normal human anatomy and physiology to help the student integrate knowledge gained in lecture with clinical application in laboratory. Laboratory work includes dissection, microscopy, studying models, and experimental demonstration of concepts covered in lecture. Dissection of non-preserved animal specimens is required. This course is designed primarily for students who intend to major in nursing.

Prerequisites: BIO-111. 4 credits each term.

BIO-307 ECOLOGY
Examines the relationships between living organisms and their environment. Emphasizes the physical and biological factors that influence evolution, the distribution, abundance and diversity of species, the structure of communities and ecosystem function. Applies ecological knowledge to current topics in global issues. Laboratory focuses on field experiences and the practical use of field techniques. An independently designed and executed field project is completed in the laboratory and culminates in a student research symposium. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisites: BIO-230 Unity and Diversity of Life and CHM-111, each with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor; completion of mathematics requirement strongly recommended. [4 credits]

BIO-311 EVOLUTION
Examines the basic processes of organic evolution, including the production of genetic variation, mechanisms and levels of selection, adaptive radiation and speciation. Readings in the course focus on macroevolution and the fossil record and on microevolution and molecular evolution. Films and websites featuring evolutionary themes are examined and critiqued. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisites: BIO-230 Unity and Diversity of Life and CHM-111, each with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-340 MICROBIOLOGY
Examines the world of microorganisms and their occurrence and role in nature. Focuses on the study of structure, growth, pathogenicity and genetics of bacteria and viruses. An independently designed and executed, small-group research project is completed in the laboratory and culminates in a student research symposium. Three hours lecture and four hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO-239 and CHM-111, each with a minimum grade of C or permission of the instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-341 VERTEBRATE ANATOMY
Examines the major evolutionary trends in structure and function of the vertebrates. Analyzes the anatomy of fishes, amphibians, reptiles and mammals in the context of phylogeny, ecology and the physical and chemical environment. Laboratory exercises involve examination of commercially prepared specimens to develop the skills for dissection. Incorporates field trips to sites such as the National Museum of Natural History and American Museum of Natural History. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO-230 Unity and Diversity of Life with a minimum grade of C or permission of the instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-343 ANIMAL BEHAVIOR
Analyzes the behavior of animals from many perspectives, including the role of genetics and the environment, hormonal influences, and the neurobiology of behavior, as well as the evolutionary causes and consequences of behavior. Emphasizes the organizing mechanisms employed by organisms responding to complex environments and the value of behavioral strategies in finding food, avoiding predators, choosing mates, parenting, communicating and forming groups. Uses video and living examples to illustrate techniques in the study of animal behavior. An independently designed and executed research project is completed in the laboratory and culminates in a student research symposium. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO-230 Unity and Diversity of Life or PSY-101, with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-345 NUTRITION
Focuses on the basic biochemical, physiological and psychosocial principles of the science of nutrition, and their applications to the nutritional requirements during the human life span in health as well as disease. Methods used in evaluating and meeting current nutritional norms will be investigated. Students will learn to read and evaluate the current literature, as found in refereed nutritional journals as well from popular electronic sources. Three hours lecture. Prerequisites: BIO-111 and CHM-210 each with a minimum grade of C, or permission of Instructor. [3 credits]

BIO-375 MOLECULAR BIOLOGY TECHNIQUES
Introduces students to a variety of molecular techniques that are central to modern biological research. Integrates lecture, reading of primary literature and practical laboratory application. Emphasizes the functional basis of each technique and its appropriate application. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO-239 Genetics, with a minimum grade of C, or permission of instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-403 IMMUNOLOGY
Covers the basic cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Topics include tissues and cells of the immune response, antigen and antibody structure and function, the major histocompatibility complex, genetics of antibody and T-cell receptor formation, immune effector mechanisms and aberrations of the immune response. Three hours lecture. Prerequisites: BIO-111 and CHM-211, each with a minimum grade of C or permission of the instructor; BIO-239 Genetics and BIO-340 Microbiology strongly recommended. [3 credits]

BIO-410 CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Discusses the structure and function of the eukaryotic cell. Special attention is given to the function of cellular organelles, the structure of the genome, and the production and modification of proteins. In the laboratory, students employ basic molecular techniques to study cellular functions. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO-239 Genetics, with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-411 SPECIAL TOPICS IN BIOLOGY
Explores, in depth, a focused topic in biology based on instructor's expertise. Topic will change from year to year and to reflect trends and developments in biology. Prerequisite: Will be noted for specific course, based on topic. [3 or 4 credits]

BIO-413 NEUROBIOLOGY
Focuses on the mechanisms by which neural systems control animal behavior. Integrates neural function with underlying biochemistry, cell biology and organ physiology. The laboratory places strong emphasis on data acquisition from electrophysiological hardware and data analysis from computer software. Includes small group research in which each group independently designs, implements, analyzes and presents a semester-long research project in the context of a simulated symposium. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisites: PSY-223 or BIO-341 Vertebrate Anatomy, CHM-210 each with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-415 DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
Focuses on the comparative mechanisms by which a single cell gives rise to a complex, multicellular organism. Uses the perspective of classical embryology, modern cell biology and molecular genetics. Includes recent advances in developmental biology with emphasis on species comparisons and evolutionary relationships. Includes small student groups that independently design, implement, analyze and present a semester-long research project that culminates in an audiovisual presentation in a simulated symposium-style format. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisites: BIO-239 Genetics, BIO-341 Vertebrate Anatomy and CHM-210, each with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-425/426 BIOCHEMISTRY I AND II
Focuses on biomolecules, enzyme kinetics, the biochemistry of energy production, and a description of basic metabolic pathways as well as their regulation and integration in functioning organisms. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisites for BIO-425: BIO-111, CHM-210 each with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor, and CHM-211. Prerequisite for BIO-426: BIO-425 with minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [4 credits each term]

BIO-431 ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY
Investigates how specific physiological functions and animal behavior have underlying biochemical, cellular and organ system structural designs. Focuses on comparative physiology in the context of how animal systems can be influenced by environmental conditions and how these have been modified through evolution. Includes small group projects in which students independently design, implement, analyze and present semester-long research projects in the form of a simulated symposium. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO-341 Vertebrate Anatomy and CHM-211, each with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [4 credits]

BIO-451 SENIOR SEMINAR
Serves as the capstone experience in the major. Focuses on critical synthesis and analysis of biological literature. Includes student-led discussions of research papers on topics of individual student interest. Develops knowledge of a topic, library research skills and interpretation of the original research literature in biology. Culminates in a written review of scientific literature on a topic of individual interest. Prerequisite: senior biology major or permission of instructor. [3 credits]

BIO-463 INDEPENDENT STUDY
Focuses on individual study in biology under the direction of a faculty member. Culminates in written paper or conference presentation. Permission of instructor required. [1 to 4 credits]

BIO-473 BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH
Investigates a topic of current interest in the biological sciences under faculty guidance. Includes a literature search and design and execution of original laboratory research project. Culminates in a written paper or scientific poster. Permission of instructor required. Can be taken multiple times. [1 to 4 credits]

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