Biology (Major, Minor)

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.
Three hours lectures and three hours lab.
Co-requisite BIO-104L. Fulfills general education
requirement in natural sciences. [4 credits]

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. [4 credits] 

Prepares first year students who plan to continue taking courses in biology, but who would benefit first from a focus on the integration of chemistry and mathematics. Students will develop concepts, design experiments, and analyze data to solve problems encountered in various branches of biology. Three hours lecture and three hours lab. Co-requisite: BIO-110L. A grade of at least C in BIO-110 is a prerequisite for subsequent enrollment in BIO-111. First year Women's College students only. For STEM majors only. Fulfills general education requirement in natural science. [4 credits]

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: Satisfactory score on the NDMU Placement Exam or BIO-110 with minimum grade of C, or permission or chair.  For STEM majors only. Fulfills general education requirement in natural sciences.  [4 credits]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 111.

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.

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.  [ 4 credits ]

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. [4 credits]

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.

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, nursing, 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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 201.

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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 202.

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 ]

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 ] 

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 239.    

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 with a minimum grade of C.  [ 4 credits ] 

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 253.

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. Discusses medical applications of emerging genetic technologies. Introduces emerging concepts in the genetic and epigenetic causes of human disease. Pre-nursing students only. Prerequisites: BIO-111 with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [3 credits]

Investigates a topic of current interest in the biological sciences under guidance of Biology Department faculty. Includes a literature search, design and execution of original laboratory research, and data analysis. Culminates in written paper or scientific poster to local and/or regional student symposia. Designed for first-and second-year students. Permission of instructor required. Can be taken for credit multiple times. [ 1-3 credits ]

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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 307.

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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 311.     

Examines the world of microorganisms and their occurrence and roles in nature. Focuses on the study of structure, growth, pathogenicity and genetics of microbes as well as their interactions in microbiome and biofilm communities. In the laboratory, students will learn sterile technique, staining, and culture techniques required for the isolation, identification, and enumeration of microbes, microbial metabolism, microbial genetics and will investigate various factors affecting microbial growth, including antiseptics, disinfectant, and antimicrobial drugs. 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 ] 

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 340.

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.  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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 341.

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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 343.

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 ]

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 ]

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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 410.

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 credits ]

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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 413.

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 ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 415.

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: BIO-111, CHM-211 each with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [ 4 credits ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 425.

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. Prerequisite: BIO-425 with minimum grade of C or permission of instructor. [ 4 credits ]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 426.

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]

This lab is a co-requisite for BIO 431.

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]

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]

Investigates a topic of current interest in the biological sciences under guidance of Biology Department faculty.  Includes a literature search and design and execution of original laboratory research project. Culminates in a written paper or scientific poster. Course is designed for students of Junior or Senior class status.  Permission of instructor required. Can be taken multiple times. [4 credits; may be split over successive semesters.]