An exploration of the principles of biology with an emphasis on the scientific method, cellular processes, ecology, genetics, human physiology, and evolution concepts. Topics such as disruption of ecosystems, human population growth, food security, human disease, genetic testing, and genetic engineering will be examined and discussed. This course is intended for non-biology majors and includes 2 hours of lab work each week.
Every Fall, Interim, and Spring
Previously: BIOL 110
This course is a study of the structure and functions of the human body at the tissue, organ, and system level. Laboratory work includes: investigative laboratory experiments, histological examinations, specific organ dissections, and whole specimen dissections of a fetal pig and rat that investigate all body systems concurrently.
Previously: BIOL 105
This course is a systematic, introductory study of the structure of the human body at the tissue, organ, and system levels, emphasizing both gross anatomy and microanatomy. An integral part of the course is the weekly two-hour laboratory, which incorporates using the Anatomage Virtual Cadaver Dissection Table, human 3D models, exposure to cadaver tissues, the dissection of animal organs, and the histological examination of tissues. By mastering the materials presented in both lab and lecture, students should gain the background knowledge necessary to pursue further studies in anatomy, physiology, health care, and medicine.
Every Fall, Interim, Spring, and Summer
Previously: BIOL 150
Lab for BIOL 1022
Every Fall, Interim, Spring, and Summer
Previously: BIOL 150L
This introductory course will integrate concepts and material from several disciplines to highlight current environmental problems with the aim of using creative approaches to solving these problems. The course is designed to meet both the needs of non-majors with a serious concern about environmental issues, students who intend to pursue career objectives in environmental science or ecology, and students in the Environmental Studies major.
Every Spring
Previously: BIOL 180, ENST 180
Cooking reflects our ability to use past experiences and learned knowledge to transform basic nutritional elements into nourishing and creative ends. It is also a truly applied science, where basic chemical principles can transform the organic molecules we eat through processes like emulsification, browning, fermentation, and oxidation. This class will study many of the foundational chemical processes in cooking, and give students a hands-on approach to using and presenting these processes through basic cooking techniques. The course will also examine our relationship to our food as production on a large scale has serious implications for the health of our planet.
This introductory science major course will provide students with a solid background on the four foundational subjects within the biological sciences: cell biology, genetics, ecology, and evolution. It includes a two hour laboratory designed to introduce students to the skills required by biologists as they seek answers to questions. This course is designed to teach students about scientific inquiry as a way to understand the world of nature.
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: BIOL 120
A study of the major taxonomic groupings of plants and animals using an evolutionary approach followed by an in-depth study of photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and the physiological processes responsible for control and integration in both plants and animals. The course includes 3 hours laboratory experience each week.
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: BIOL 121
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: BIOL 121L
This course will provide students with a real-life science research immersion experience which can serve as the basis for launching a career in science - particularly in the life sciences, environmental science, or medical fields. The course will also give students an intercultural experience that brings out shared as well as unique life challenges facing people living in a remote rainforest location. Offered summers only and includes a 10-day immersion in Costa Rica. Instructor permission only.
Previously: BIOL 108
Students conduct a comparative study of microbes using computational biology (bioinformatics) tools. The course focusses on microbial bioinformatics because microbes are central to all environments on the planet, drive biogeochemical cycles, and perform functions vital to all life forms. Students are introduced to Joint Genome Institute's (JGI) Integrated Microbial Genomes and Microbiomes (IMG/M) platform. Working in teams once in Costa Rica, students conduct comparative bioinformatics research, generate an original research question, and use their new-found expertise in microbial bioinformatics tools to address that question. Offered Summer only and includes a 10-day experience in Costa Rica. Instructor permission required.
Special Topics in Biology.
Previously: BIOL 197
This course is a combination of two Project Lead The Way courses. This course will satisfy the lab science general education requirement.
Principles of the Biomedical Sciences: Students explore biology concepts through the study of human diseases. Students determine the factors that led to the death of a fictional person, and investigate lifestyle choices and medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. The activities and projects introduce students to human physiology, medicine and research processes.
Human Body Systems: Students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection and homeostasis. Students design experiments, investigate the structures and functions of the human body, and use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action and respiration.
Previously: BIOL 100PL
Students investigate a variety of interventions involved in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease as they follow the life of a fictitious family. Students explore how to prevent and fight infection; screen and evaluate the code in human DNA; prevent, diagnose and treat cancer; and prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail.
Previously: BIOL 101PL
Students design innovative solutions for the health challenges of the 21st century. They work through progressively challenging open-ended problems, addressing topics such as clinical medicine, physiology, biomedical engineering and public health. They have the opportunity to work on an independent project with a mentor or advisor from a university, hospital, research institution, or biomedical industry.
Previously: BIOL 102PL