Courses for Non-Science Majors
BL 100 Introduction to Biology
This course is designed to provide insight into the organization of
living systems at the molecular, cellular, organismal and populational
levels. Emphasized are structural and functional characteristics common
to most organisms, organismal diversity, biological evolution, and interactions
between organisms and their environment. The laboratory is designed to
introduce the process of science and the characteristics of scientific
knowledge. Students learn to formulate questions and hypotheses, design
simple experiments, interpret results, draw conclusion and present their
work in scientific formats. For non-science majors. Tier 1 course, no prerequisite.
Four credits.
BL 102 Exercise and Sport Physiology
An introduction to the short- and long-term responses of the human
body to physical activity, with emphasis on neuromuscular physiology, fuel
metabolism and cardiorespiratory function. The influence of diet, training
and ergogenic aids on athletic performance and their biological bases are
discussed. Physical inactivity as a risk factor for disease is addressed.
The laboratory componeent is designed to reinforce concepts presented in
lecture. For non-science majors. Tier 2 course, any Tier 1 course serves
as the prerequisite. Four credits.
BL 112 Understanding Biotechnology
This integrated lecture-laboratory course is focused on the ways in
which our understanding of biological systems is applied for practical
purposes. The lecture portion addresses the basic biology and theory behind
topics such as genetic engineering of microbes, plants and animals for
agricultural, industrial and medical purposes; cloning of genes, plants
and animals; as well as, DNA analysis in forensic science and medicine.
Special consideration is given to the ethical issues raised by the application
of these technologies. The laboratory component is designed to reinforce
the scientific method while providing hands-on experience with DNA technologies
and forensic analysis. For non-science majors. Tier 1 course, no prerequisite.
Four credits.
BL 114 Human Biology and Laboratory
A study of the structure, function and development of the human body.
The laboratory consists of microscopic studies, gross dissections and demonstrations.
For non-science majors. Tier 2 course, any Tier 1 course serves as the
prerequisite. Four credits.
BL 116 Bacteria, Friends or Foes?
This course will include discussions, lectures and laboratories to
study the tiny creatures that surround us known as microorganisms, particularly
bacteria and viruses. The course will study the two-sided relationship
between microorganisms and man. Most people think of bacteria and viruses
as harmful because they cause disease. On the other hand, these tiny entities
have many positive roles in our society including advancing biotechnology,
food and beverage production, and roles in the environment incuding degrading
materials and cycling nutrients. These and other topics will be discussed.
For non-science majors. Tier 2 course, any Tier 1 course serves as the
prerequisite. Four credits
Courses for Science Majors
BL 150, 152 General Biology I and II
This year-long course is intended for science majors. The first semester
addresses the biology of cells, comparative animal physiology and plant
biology. The second semester continues with animal diversity and reproduction,
classical and molecular genetics, and ecology and evolution. At the conclusion
of thecourse, Biology majors elect cell and molecular biology, organismal
biology or population biology as an area of concentration for subsequent
work. A passing grade in BL 150 is required for BL 152. Three credits each
semester.
BL 151, 153 General Biology I and II Laboratory
The subject material parallels that in the General Biology (BL 150,
152). The course is intended to introduce scientific method, laboratory
techniques and the use of instruments as students perform experiments that
reinforce and expand upon ideas presented in lecture. One credit each semester.
mutated gene to a heterologous host, and quantitate its level of expression.
Ancillary techniques performed include the extraction of nucleic acids
from procaryotic and eucaryotic organisms, structural characterization
of gene fragments by Southern blotting, and computer-assisted analysis
of genetic sequences. One credit.
Note: BL 150, 151, 152 and 153 are prerequisites for all of the following courses.
BL 208 Cell Biology
This course is an intensive examination of cell
ultrastructure and function. Emphasis is placed on the role of specific
organelles in cellular processes such as membrane structure, function,
biogenesis and recycling; protein structure, assembly, modification and
trafficking; energy transduction; intracellular transport; cell cycle control;
and cell to cell communication. Reference is made to the ways in which
cells are studied and a section on microscopy is included Where relevant,
the relationship of individual cells within the environment of an integrated
multicellular organism is addressed. Prerequisite CH 221 & 222.
Three lectures weekly. Three credits.
BL 209 Cell Biology Laboratory
The laboratory is designed to familiarize the
student with the general methods used to study the physical nature of cells
and their inherent biochemical processes. Experimental techniques performed
range from the measurement of cell growth rates to the differential purification
and biochemical analysis of subcellular components. One three hour laboratory
weekly. One credit.
Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration
BL 212 Microbiology
This course will introduce students to Microbiology,
the study of microorganisms with a focus on bacteria and viruses. The course
will include discussions and lectures on the history of Microbiology, microbial
growth and metabolism, and microbial genetics. The impact of microorganisms
in the environment, interactions with other organisms, and microbial diseases,
treatments and the human immune response will be studied. Three credits.
BL 213 Microbiology Laboratory
Students will learn how to properly handle, grow,
and identify microorganisms. Students will study microorganisms in the
environment including biofilms, the effect of antibiotics on bacteria,
identification of food contaminants, and various factors that contribute
to changes in microbial growth. The lab will focus on bacteria. One credit.
BL 214 Molecular Genetics
A detailed study of the interrelationship between the structure and
function of nucleic acids and proteins. Seminal experiments serve as a
framework to trace the history of molecular biology from early studies
on the chemical nature of RNA and DNA and the elucidation of the genetic
code to recent investigations of higher order controls of gene expression.
The bacterium E. coli is a paradigm organism for the examination of universal
processes such as transcription, translation, DNA replication, recombination,
and gene regulation. Comparisons are then made with analogous functions
in eucaryotes. In addition, students are provided with a brief introduction
to recombinant DNA methods and biotechnology. Three credits.
BL 215 Molecular Genetics Laboratory
An integrated semester-long laboratory experiment is used to introduce
students to the concepts and techniques molecular geneticists employ to
elucidate and manipulate gene anatomy. Individual laboratory exercises
are dedicated to the cloning, mutagenesis and mapping of a known gene.
Sophisticated techniques are then utilized to transfer the mutated gene
to a heterologous host, and quantitate its level of expression. Ancillary
techniques performed include the extraction of nucleic acids from procaryotic
and eucaryotic organisms, structural characterization of gene fragments
by Southern blotting, and computer-assisted analysis of genetic sequences.
One credit.
BL 218 Advanced Cell Biology
This course is a topical study of higher order cellular relationships
and processes. Discussions include: the role of specialized mechanosensory
and chemosensory cells in taste, touch, hearing and vision; molecular mechanisms
of cellular locomotion and intracellular transport, cellular function in
immune recognition and response; regulatory control of the cell cycle and
its relationship to programmed cell death, and, the molecular origins of
cancer. BL 208 is required. Three credits.
BL 219 Experimental Techniques in Cell Biology
Laboratory
This course is focused on contemporary cell biological analyses involving
cultured human and rodent cell lines. Among the technologies covered are
DNA transfer to cultured cells, foreign gene expression in mammalian cells,
generation of heterologous cell fusions, primary cell culture, cell cycle
analysis, programmed cell death, in vitro toxicity testing, and fluorescence
microscopy. Concurrent enrollment in BL 218 is required. One credit.
Organismal Biology
BL 220 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
This course endeavors to provide a comprehensive
comparison of vertebrate structure and function in the major body systems.
Animals being discussed range from fish to reptiles, to mammals.
Human comparisons are also included with each body system. This course
is taken concurrently with Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Laboratory.
Three credits.
BL 221 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Laboratory
The first part of this course is the comparative
analysis of vertebrate skeletal structure. Animals under study include
sharks, fish, amphibians, reptiles, avians, and mammals. The second
part of the course involves an intensive study of mammalian gross anatomy
through dissection of a cat. Body systems to be studied include the
muscular, digestive, urogenital, reproductive, circulatory, and nervous
systems. One credit.
BL 222 Developmental Biology
This course provides a comprehensive study of
vertebrate embryology from fish through mammals. Areas of study include
gametogenesis, fertilization mechanisms, early embryological events, and
organogenesis. In addition to classical embryology, this course includes
instruction on the molecular mechanisms that underlie the various developmental
events discussed. Taken concurrently with Developmental Biology Laboratory.
Three credits.
BL 223 Developmental Biology Laboratory
A major function of this course is to reaffirm
the developmental events discussed in lecture through the examination of
slides and models. In addition, this laboratory endeavors to provide
students with hands on experience with sterile technique and classical
embryological techniques such as vital staining to analyze morphogenic
movements, separation of cells to study behavior, and in vitro culturing
of blastoderms and other embryonic explants. One credit.
BL 224 Mammalian Physiology
Detailed study of organ system function with emphasis on humans. The
systems studied include neuromuscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal,
digestive and endocrine. Homeostasis, regulatory mechanisms and the functional
relationships between systems are emphasized. Three credits.
BL 225 Mammalian Physiology Laboratory
Laboratory experiments designed to explore organ system function in
mammals, including humans. Students work
extensively with computers to acquire, process and present data. One
credit.
Population Biology
BL 232 Ecology
This is a general course emphasizing physical-chemical-biological relationships.
Evolutionary trends are considered. Topics include energy relations, biogeochemistry,
population growth, and the structure and function of communities and ecosystems.
Three credits.
BL 233 Ecology Laboratory
Lab and field experiences paralleling Ecology 232 are designed to teach
specific techniques of research design, field sampling, and data analysis
in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. One credit.
BL 234 Evolution and Systematics
The theory and evidence of the gradual evolution of organisms, and
taxonomic relationships of animals and plants. Offered in odd-numbered
years. Three credits.
BL 235 Evolution and Systematics Laboratory
Laboratory experiments, computer simulations, and field trips are designed
to study concepts presented in BL 234. Offered in odd-numbered years. One
credit.
BL 236 Biology of Environmental Disturbances
We will explore the biological aspects of many natural and human-caused
disturbances by studying the cellular, physiological and ecological responses
of organisms to disturbances such as treefalls, logging, pesticides, acid
deposition and drought. The course will focus on ecological problems as
well as solutions. Offered in even-numbered years. Three credits.
BL 237 Biology of Environmental Disturbances Laboratory
Laboratory experiments, computer simulations and field work will parallel
the topics presented in lecture. Field work will provide data for case
studies on disturbances in both terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.
Offered in even-numbered years. One credit.
The Senior Research Program is designed to introduce students to all facets of developing and completing a research project. It begins with BL 301 where the student writes a research proposal. He/she is introduced to biological literature searches, critical reading of primary research articles, formulation of biologically significant questions, experimental design and long-range planning. The program continues in BL 302 where the student performs the proposed laboratory work. The student masters, adapts and applies laboratory techniques to the solution of specific biological problems. Additionally, the student experiences the excitement of success and the frustration of setbacks common to all research. The program concludes with BL 303 where the student critically analyzes the data, integrates it with the findings of others and presents the work in a written thesis format. Enrollment in the first phase of the program (BL 301) requires completion of General Biology and at least two upper level biology courses, with concurrent registration in a third. Students with a QPA in biology less than 2 0 and/or with two or more grades below C in upper level biology lecture courses may not register for BL 301.
BL 301 Junior Research Seminar
Design and plan a research project. Write a research proposal. Two
credits.
BL 302 Research Project
Performance of the laboratory phase of the research project. Prerequisite:
BL 301. Two credits.
BL 303 Research Thesis
Writing of the senior research thesis. Prerequisite: BL 302. One credit.
Electives
BL 242 Histology
A detailed study of the normal tissues of vertebrates from both a morphological
and a functional viewpoint. Special emphasis is placed on the characteristics
of human tissues, Students must take the laboratory concurrently. Two credits.
BL 243 Histology Laboratory
Each student gets experience in the preparation of slides as well as
identifying tissues under the microscope. One credit.
BL 245 Exercise Physiology
Study of the metabolic, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory and thermoregulatory
responses to acute and chronic exercise. Special topics such as nutrition
or ergogenic aids are also discussed but vary from year to year. Prerequisite:
BL 224. Three credits.
BL 248 Environmental Microbiology
A study of a variety of microorganisms that exist in natural environments,
including Antarctica, deep-sea hydrothermal vents, Hot Springs in Yellowstone
Park, and sedimentary rock. The possibility of microbial life on the moon
will be discussed. The involvement of microorganisms in the flow of energy
and cycling of materials will be investigated. Special attention will be
given to studying the affect of pollutants on natural microbial populations
and the affect of microbiota on environmental contaminants. The application
of microbes in the area of bioremediation and bioaugmentation will be presented.
May be used to complete a biology minor or counted as an elective for the
biology major. Three credits.
BL 249 Environmental Microbiology Laboratory
Laboratory exercises and field work will be used to introduce students
to useful techniques for isolating and examining microorganisms from many
different environments, including soil and aquatic environments, and plants
and animals. The use of microbes in the area of bioremediation and bioaugmentation
will be investigated. May be used to complete a biology minor or counted
as an elective for the biology major. One credit.
BL 250 Medical Microbiology
This course will introduce students to medical microbiology, the study
of pathogenic (disease-causing) microorganisms with a focus on bacteria
and viruses. The course will include discussions and lectures, and focus
on microbial diseases, treatments and prevention, and the human immune
response to microorganisms. Three credits.
BL 252 Medical Microbiology Laboaratory
Students will learn to properly handle, grow, and identify microorganisms.
Students will study the effect of antibiotics on bacteria, their mutation
rates and the underlying mechanisms including genetic transfer. The future
of medical microbiology and its importance in the health care setting will
be addressed. The lab will focus on bacteria. One credit.
BL 310 Teaching Biology
Primarily laboratory instruction which includes lecturing, laboratory
preparations and assistance under the supervision of the faculty member
in charge of the course. It is not substitute teaching and is intended
to give the student first-hand experience in what is involved in the teaching
process. Permission of instructor required. One credit.
BL 333 Special Study
The student will pursue a faculty directed course of study. Permission
of Chairperson required. Variable credit. May be repeated.
BL 350 Independent Research Project
The student will pursue research distinct from the Senior Research
Project. Does not fulfill major or minor credlt requirements. Variable
credit. May be repeated.
BL 550 Cooperative Education
Work experience program extending the learning experience beyond the
college into the world of work. Students are employed in an area related
to their academic endeavor. Academic credits are P/F and are awarded by
individual departments according to the extent of the work experience.
Students may or may not be paid depending on the site. The purpose of the
program is to integrate academic studies and employment activities. Variable
credit. May be repeated.