Biology - BIO (50)
Administered by Department of Biological and Allied Health Sciences
Effective Fall 2009
50.100 Cells, Genes and Molecules (3) – Studies the general principles of biology from the cellular, genetic and molecular levels. Discusses how modern techniques in biology shape and affect our lives. Not applicable to biology major or minor. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture per week.
50.101 Human Biology (3) - Presents an overview of function and the major concepts and principles of biology relating to humans. Not applicable to biology major or minor. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture per week.
50.102 Ecology and Evolution (3) - Studies biology from the ecological, evolutionary and behavioral perspectives with emphasis on humankind. Not applicable to biology major or minor. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture per week.
50.107 Medical Terminology (1) - Studies roots, prefixes and suffixes of medical terms via programmed instruction. Open only to students in allied health, nursing, and biology. Pass/fail credit only. Not applicable to biology major or minor.
50.114 Concepts in Biology I (4) - Provides a framework of key biological concepts and unifying themes. Topics include the nature and process of science, the unity and diversity of living things, the chemical basis of life, cell structure and function, principles of inheritance and animal form and function. Laboratory work emphasizes application of biological principles, experimental design, observation, data collection, analysis and interpretation. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours lecture/three hours laboratory per week.
50.115 Concepts in Biology II (4) – Continues the biological topics of Concepts in Biology I. Introductory course that presents key biological concepts in an evolutionary framework. Topics include: plant form and function, population, community and ecosystem ecology, evolution (including population genetics, macroevolution, and human evolution), systematics, and a survey of key phyla of plants, animals and microorganisms. Laboratory work emphasizes application of biological principles, experimental design, observation, data collection, analysis and interpretation as well as written and oral communication skills. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.114 or permission of the instructor.
50.173 Anatomy and Physiology I (4) - Integrates the structure and function of the human body at an introductory level. The course covers fundamental principles of anatomy and physiology, the chemical basis of life, cell structure and function, tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, nervous system and special senses. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Not applicable to biology major or minor.
50.174 Anatomy and Physiology II (4) - Integrates the structure and function of the human body at an introductory level. The course covers blood and defense mechanisms, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, metabolism, nutrition, urinary system, fluid and electrolyte balance, endocrine system, reproductive system, growth and development. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours lecture/3 hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.173 or consent of the instructor. Not applicable to biology major or minor.
50.200 Dendrology (3) - Covers the basic principles of dendrology: the identification, biology and economic significance of trees and shrubs. Emphasis is placed on tree species of eastern North American forests. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture and 18 hours of field work per week (3 week session). Summer session only. Prerequisite: 50.115.
50.205 Introduction to Nutrition (3) – Emphasizes a foundation of nutritional concepts and practices that can be applied to personal lives and incorporated into careers. Concepts include nutritional requirements for optimal health and performance throughout the life span, making food choices in the marketplace, analyzing nutritional information in the media and controversial issues in nutrition and health. Three hours of lecture per week. Not applicable to biology major or minor. This course does not count as a Group C general education requirement. This course will apply 1 credit toward satisfying the Fitness and Recreational Skills requirement.
50.211 Invertebrate Zoology (3) - Studies the principal phyla of invertebrate animals in relation to their anatomy, classification and behaviors in the ecosystems in which they participate. Field trip component at Marine Science Consortium, Wallops Island, Va., includes additional student costs. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours lecture/2 hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.115. Does not count for a biology minor.
50.212 Vertebrate Zoology (3) - Studies the biology of vertebrate animals, emphasizing natural history, physiology, morphology, taxonomy and behavior. The course reviews evolutionary and ecological aspects of each class of animals. Laboratory work with living and preserved specimens is included to familiarize students with representative individuals of the major classes of this group. A field trip component to the Marine Science Consortium, Wallops Island, VA, includes additional student costs. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.115. Does not count for a biology minor.
50.222 Comparative Biology of Plants (3) - Provides an evolutionary study of land plants with emphasis on their molecular systematics, development, structure, reproduction and selected ecological and paleobotanical aspects. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.115. Does not count for a biology minor.
50.230 Human Sexuality (3) - Presents a two (2) gender perspective of the roles of sexuality in the life of humans. Anthropological, biological, psychological and sociological aspects of sexuality and their relation to popular culture and diversity are considered. Current public health issues, ethics, responsible decision-making and values are also examined. This course does not count as a Group C general education requirement. This course is approved as a Diversity General Education Course/This course approved as 3 credits of Values, Ethics and Responsible Decision Making toward general education requirements.
50.231 Biology of Aging (3) - Discusses the biological mechanisms of the aging process with special emphasis on these processes in humans. Discussions include studies of aging at the molecular, cellular, systems and organism levels of organizations. Three hours of lecture per week. Not applicable to biology major or minor. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements.
50.233 Human Genetics (3) - Provides students with a basic foundation in human genetics. Fundamental principles of classical and molecular genetics are presented with a focus on their application to human inheritance and the genetic basis of human diseases. The social and ethical issues raised by progress in medical genetics are evaluated and discussed. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/discussion per week. Prerequisite: One of the following: 50.100, 50.101, or 50.114. Not applicable to biology minor.
50.240 Introductory Microbiology (3) - Presents morphology, metabolism, cultivation, and control of bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms with emphasis on public health aspects. Topics will include bioterrorism, epidemiology, food safety, immunology, and infectious diseases. Three hours lecture and 2 hours laboratory per week. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Not applicable to biology major or minor.
50.242 Microbiology (4) - Introduces the fundamental principles of nomenclature, classification, microscopy, cytology and anatomy, cultivation, growth, metabolism and genetics of the microbial world. Microbial interrelationships and control are integrated into a systematic approach to classical microbiology as it relates to humans and the environment. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: 50.115 and 52.115.
50.250 Biodiversity and Conservation Biology (3) - Draws on a biological perspective and to a lesser extent on philosophy, socioeconomics and political science to explore the current global mass extinction of species. Emphasis is on the processes that result in biodiversity and the processes leading to its premature extinction. The course consists of three hours of lecture per week. Prerequisite: sophomore standing. The course counts as a Group C and for Values, Ethics and Responsible Decision Making credit. Not applicable to biology major or minor. Prerequisite: At least 24 earned credits
50.252 Field Zoology (3) - Studies animals (mainly vertebrates) with emphasis on field observation, animal identification, field research techniques, and data collection and analysis. Lecture introduces students to theory and practice underlying field methods. The class visits field sites to gain experience with field methods and data collection. Field data are analyzed and summarized in a written report. Required field trip to Wallops Island at additional student cost. Two hours of lecture and 18 hours of field work per week (3 week session). This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements Summer session only. Prerequisite: 50.115 or consent of the instructor.
50.275 Drugs in America (3) - Examines the basic mechanisms of drug action for legal and illegal, prescription and over the counter (OTC) medications. Introduction covers terminology, drug sources, federal laws and principles of drug action. More specific mechanisms will be discussed for the following categories: narcotic analgesics, stimulants, barbiturates, tranquilizers, marijuana, hallucinogens, antiovulatory agents, OTC pain relievers, other common OTC medications and antibiotics. Three hours of lecture per week. Not applicable to the biology major or minor. Counts for Group C and meets Values, Ethics and Responsible Decision Making requirement. Prerequisites: 50.101 or 50.114 or 50.174
50.253 Freshwater Biology (3) -Introduces identification, life histories and ecology of organisms inhabiting lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands. Emphasis will be placed on the role environmental factors play in determining the abundance and distribution of these organisms. Laboratory and field investigations are included. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisites: 50.115. Does not count for a biology minor.
50.254 Social Implications of Biology (3) - Explores the societal implications of current thought in biology. The course addresses values, ethics and responsible decision making. Three hours of lecture and discussion per week. Not applicable to biology major or minor. This course does not count as a Group C general education requirement. This course approved as 3 credits of Values, Ethics and Responsible Decision Making toward general education requirements.
50.263 Field Botany (3) – Addresses field identification of local vascular plants, principles of plant systematics, ecology and evolution. Two hours of lecture and 9 hours of field work per week (6 week session). Summer session only. Prerequisite: 50.115 or consent of the instructor. Does not count for a biology minor.
50.271 Cell Biology (4) - Examines the structure and function of the cell and its organelles. Emphasis is placed on general principles and processes by which all cells function. Three hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisites: 50.115 and 52.115.
50.275 Drugs in America (3) - Examines the basic mechanisms of drug action for legal and illegal, prescription and over the counter (OTC) medications. Introduction covers terminology, drug sources, federal laws and principles of drug action. More specific mechanisms will be discussed for the following categories: narcotic analgesics, stimulants, barbiturates, tranquilizers, marijuana, hallucinogens, antiovulatory agents, OTC pain relievers, other common OTC medications and antibiotics. Three hours of lecture per week. Not applicable to the biology major or minor. Counts for Group C and meets Values, Ethics and Responsible Decision Making requirement.
50.290 Writing in Biology (3) - Provides experience in writing and other means of communication especially useful to students in a natural science. The course includes experience in communication of information acquired by library research or classroom instruction as well as that acquired experimentally in the laboratory or field. This course cannot be used as a biology. This course satisfies 3 credits in communication: the second level writing or writing intensive literature courses for general education/This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours lecture per week. Prerequisites: 50.115 and 20.101.
50.331 Embryology (3) - Reviews the patterns, processes and principles of animal development. Laboratory studies emphasize descriptive embryology of a number of representative vertebrates with emphasis on amphibian, avian and mammalian development. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.115 or consent of the instructor.
50.332 Genetics (3) - Addresses mechanisms of heredity in animals and plants; Mendelian inheritance, linkage, probability, crossing over, chromosomal modifications, nucleic acids and gene action. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/2 hours of laboratory per week. Laboratory hours will vary. Prerequisite: 50.271.
50.333 Molecular Biology (3) - Investigates the practical and theoretical aspects of molecular biology and gives students an opportunity to explore ontogenic and developmental problems from a molecular perspective. Topics include information processing from DNA to proteins, regulation of gene expression, DNA mutability and repair and genetic engineering. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours lecture/discussion, three hours of lab per week. Prerequisite: 50.271.
50.342 Medical Microbiology (3) - Provides a study of microorganisms and acellular entities capable of causing disease in humans. The course emphasizes epidemiology, laboratory diagnosis, principles of pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture / three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: 50.242 and 50.271.
50.343 Immunology (3) - Introduction to components and functions of human immune system; application of immunology to infectious disease, blood transfusion organ transplantation and cancer; consideration of conditions involving the immune system such as immunodeficiencies (AIDS), allergies and autoimmune diseases. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisites: 50.271; and a background in genetics organic/biochemistry and/or infectious diseases recommended.
50.350 Plant Pathology (3) - Examines the nature of vascular plant diseases, the biology of plant pathogens and the impact of diseases on society. Lecture topics cover the principles of plant pathology, including: disease and pathogen classification, modes of pathogenesis, host response to disease agents and disease management practices. Laboratory exercises emphasize identification of plant pathogens and disease symptoms, including: field collection tours, inoculation and isolation methods and diagnostic techniques. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/2 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: 50.242 and 50.271; or consent of the instructor.
50.351 Ecology (3) - Investigates the interactions of organisms and their environment. Includes behavior, population dynamics, community interactions and ecosystem function. Field-based labs are an integral part of the course. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours lecture/3 hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.115 or consent of the instructor.
50.361 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy (3) - Presents a comparative study of the chordates emphasizing the vertebrate classes. Attention is given to structure, morphogenesis, functional adaptations and evolutionary trends. Laboratory emphasis is placed on the lamprey, shark and cat. Field trip component at Marine Science Consortium, Wallops Island, Va., includes additional student costs. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.115 or consent of the instructor.
50.364 Vertebrate Histology (3) - Studies the structure and function of vertebrate cells and tissues from various body systems. Laboratory studies include the use of prepared microscope slides and color photomicrographs. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours lecture/3 hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite: 50.271 or consent of instructor.
50.366 Anatomy and Physiology: Head, Neck and Thorax (Spring) (3) - Focuses on the anatomy, physiology and development of the head, neck and thorax. The course emphasizes the organ systems that relate to the hearing and speech mechanisms. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours lecture/2 hours laboratory per week. Preference given to students in communication disorders. Not applicable to biology major or minor.
50.390 Undergraduate Research in Biology I (1-3) - Acquaints students with techniques of scientific research, data collection and analysis by engaging in a program of research with the aid of a faculty member. Research culminates in a scholarly paper written by the student that presents findings of the laboratory or field investigation in a form suitable for publication. Prerequisite: junior standing and biology major.
50.391 Undergraduate Research in Biology II (3) - Continuation of 50.390.
50.411 Radiation Biology (3) - Studies effects of radiation on living organisms and nuclear structure; studies fundamental properties of radiation, including physical, chemical and genetic effects on plants and animals from cells to whole organisms; studies application of radiochemicals in biological studies. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Minimum of 4 hours per week including laboratory. Prerequisite: 50.233 or 50.332, 54.111 or consent of the instructor.
50.420 Global Change Biology (3) - Explores the biological consequences of current environment change including rising atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, increased temperature, altered precipitation patterns, increased UV radiation, nitrogen deposition, the spread of exotic species, and land-use changes. Readings will be drawn from primary scientific literature. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/seminar per week. Prerequisite: Biology major with Junior status or permission of instructor.
50.430 Evolution (3) - Studies the major concerns of the theory of evolution and contributions toward their solutions made by genetics, paleontology, systematics and ecology. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: 50.332 or 50.351 or permission of the instructor.
50.431 Developmental Biology (3) - Studies the genetic, molecular, cellular and morphological changes that occur during development. Current mechanistic concepts in development will be presented along with classical embryology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the processes that direct a fertilized single-celled egg to develop into a complex multi-cellular organism. Particular attention will be paid to recent molecular mechanisms, which are revolutionizing the understanding of developmental processes. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: 50.271 and either 52.230 or 52.232, or consent of instructor.
50.432 Microbial and Molecular Genetics (3) - Studies macromolecules, macromolecular complexes, protein synthesis and gene regulation using viruses, bacteria and lower eukaryotes. Topics include DNA/chromosome structure, genetic recombination, plasmids, transposons, recombinant DNA and genetic analysis. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. The laboratory hours will vary. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisites: One of the following: 50.332, 50.333, 52.341; or permission of instructor.
50.435 Bioinformatics and Genomic Analysis (3) - Concerns itself with understanding and manipulating genomic sequence information with regards to extracting meaningful information about genes, gene structure, gene regulation, and gene evolution. A bioinformatics approach will be used to identify coding, non-coding and regulatory sequence in a variety of plant and animal species. The course will focus on the kinds of information that can be extracted from large DNA sequences in order to understand gene function. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding our genetic predisposition(s) to disease and the relationship of the human genome to the genomes of other organisms. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture and two hours of computer laboratory each week. Prerequisites: 50.271, 53.141, and either 50.332 or 50.333, or permission of the instructor.
50.442 Virology (3) - Examines the common strategies viruses employ to infect diverse hosts as well as the unique characteristics of viral pathogenesis in the human host. Topics will include the nature of viruses, how viruses are classified, the molecular events in the infection and replication of viruses in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, how viruses cause disease in humans, the host response to virus infection, and the spread and control of viruses infecting humans. Prions and other subviral agents will also be examined. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/week. Effective Spring 2007 50.242 (Microbiology) and 50.271 (Cell Biology), or permission of instructor.
50.444 Plant and Animal Tissue Culture (1) - Explores the practical and theoretical aspects of plant and animal tissue culture. Primary focus will be on the development of laboratory skills to a level sufficient to enable the student to gain an entry-level position in a cell culture laboratory. Topics include: regeneration of plants from tissue culture, hybridoma technology, animal tissues culture techniques, establishing primary cell cultures and maintenance and storage of cell cultures. One hour of lecture/discussion per week, three hours lab. Designed for biotechnology students. Prerequisites: 50.271; 52.230 or 52.231.
50.445 Pharmacology for the Health Sciences (3) – Studies commonly used drugs. Basic principles of pharmacology and medication are covered. Commonly prescribed drug groups are discussed, specifically addressing the drug’s effects on physiology and disease; mechanisms at the cellular level are emphasized. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisites: 50.271, 52.116, and 50-174 or 50.474.
50.450 Mycology (3) - Surveys the kingdom Fungi, with emphasis on the Ascomycota, Basidiomycota and Deuteromycota. Lectures cover the topics of morphology, physiology, biochemistry, cytology, genetics, systematics, ecology and evolution. Laboratory stresses comparative morphology of higher fungi, laboratory techniques and field mycology. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: 50.271; one course in genetics recommended; or consent of the instructor.
50.451 Conservation Biology (3) - Presents the science of preserving biodiversity and sustaining the earth. The course draws on and synthesizes information from the fields of ecology, evolution, genetics, philosophy, economics, sociology and political science. Emphasis is placed on the development of strategies for preserving populations, species, biological communities and entire ecosystems in the face of growing human populations and their impact on the environment. The course brings scientific principles and theory to bear on problems of management for preserving the richness of life on earth. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of seminar per week. Prerequisites: 50.351 or consent of the instructor.
50.452 Limnology (3) – Studies the chemical, biological and physical aspects of freshwater lakes, ponds and streams. The course includes laboratory and field investigations. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Two hours of lecture and 3 hours of field work per week. Prerequisite: 50.351.
50.455 Environmental Microbiology (3) - Examines environmental and applied aspects of microbiology. Interactions of microbes with plants, with animals and with each other are discussed. Microbes in air, water and soil habitats and their roles in biogeochemical cycling are presented. Effects of pollutants, uses of microorganisms in bioremediation, in mineral recovery and the control of pests are reviewed. Laboratory experiments include techniques in sampling, counting and monitoring microbes in the environment. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Four hours lab/lecture per week. Laboratory hours may vary. Prerequisite: 50.242 or consent of instructor.
50.457 Entomology (3) - Studies the physiology, morphology, behavior, classification and general biology of the insects. A collecting period provides an opportunity for students to collect, mount and properly display insects for study. Taxonomic emphasis limited to order and family. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisite: 50.115.
50.459 Ornithology (3) - Studies the biology of birds including bird identification in the field by song and sight, anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology and other aspects. Two hours of lecture/3 hours of laboratory per week. Some study off-campus may be required. The field trip component at Marine Science Consortium, Wallops Island, VA, includes additional student costs. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisite: 50.115 or consent of the instructor.
50.460 Population Biology (3) - Presents selected themes in the biology of animal, plant and fungal populations. Topics include: population structure and dynamics, population genetics, population ecology and speciation. Fundamental principles and current models and hypotheses will be stressed, along with treatments of research techniques, computer modeling and potential for future research. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/discussion per week. Prerequisite: 50.332 or 50.351 or permission of the instructor.
50.461 Animal Behavior (3) – In-depth introduction to modern ethology. The course emphasizes current models of animal behavior and theoretical foundations of ethology. Research and project oriented. Students may incur additional cost due to the field trip component at Marine Science Consortium, Wallops Island, Va. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/2 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite or concurrent: 50.332 and 50.351.
50.472 Animal Cell Physiology (3) - Emphasizes topics such as cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, membrane transport, protein trafficking, cell signaling and cell cycle. In addition, processes required for cell functions such as cellular energetics and gene expression are covered. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisites: 50.271, and 52.230 or 52.231 or permission of the instructor.
50.474 Human Physiology (3) - Studies the major organ systems and how they work together to maintain body conditions, that are compatible with life. The course uses human systems to explain function. Mechanisms by which the systems' functions and are integrated in the whole organism are emphasized. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours lecture per week. Prerequisites: 50.114 or 50.174, and 50.271 and 52.116, and 53.113 or 53.116 or 53.123 or 53.125 or permission of instructor.
50.476 Neurophysiology (3) - Examines normal physiology of the nervous and skeletal muscular systems; specifically studying cellular neurophysiology, sensory physiology, motor control and their integration. Three hours lecture and discussion per week. Background in mammalian anatomy and physiology and biochemistry recommended. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Prerequisites: 50.271 and 50.174 or 50.474 or 50.480 or permission of instructor.
50.477 Plant Physiology (3) - Introduces plant function including discussions of water relations, carbohydrate metabolism and translocation, photosynthesis, mineral nutrition, plant growth hormones and growth and development. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours lecture per week. Prerequisites: 50.271, and 52.230 or 52.231 or permission of the instructor.
50.478 Microbial Physiology (3) - Studies life processes of microorganisms, including how they maintain homeostasis in response to changing environmental conditions. Examines general similarities as well as significant differences between microbial groups. Covers principles of nutrition and growth, substrate uptake and transport systems. Discussion of energy-yielding metabolism in microorganisms will highlight the diversity of systems. Outlines precursor and macromolecule synthetic pathways and their regulation, with emphasis on industrial applications. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: 50.242, 50.271, 52.116.
50.479 Integrated Physiology Laboratory (1) - Provides hands-on investigations of physiological principles across taxonomic groups and all organizational levels. The laboratory investigates evolutionary adaptations to various physical problems and reinforces awareness of the unity of living systems. Emphasis is placed on the application of the scientific method and provides opportunities for independent investigation. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Four hours laboratory per week, including one hour discussion. Prerequisites: 50.271 and 52.116, or permission of the instructor. Students need an understanding of college algebra. Pre or Co-requisite: 50.472, 50.474, 50.477, 50.478, or 50.480
50.480 Comparative Animal Physiology (3) - Concerns itself with the adaptation of animals to their environments. Adaptive mechanisms for marine, freshwater, terrestrial and extreme environments will be examined using a combination of morphological, physiological, biochemical, molecular and evolutionary perspectives. The course focuses on a broad range of invertebrate and vertebrate animals with the goal of understanding the physiological and biochemical strategies they have evolved that allow them to successfully thrive within the uniqueness of each environment. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: 50.271.
50.481 Senior Biology Seminar (1) - Addresses the practice of critical reading and of the scientific literature in biology, preparing written and oral analyses of original research, and engaging in critical discussion. One hour of seminar per week. Prerequisite: senior standing in biology.
50.484 Methods in Biotechnology (3) – offers an investigation-based course in which students undertake a project of their own design employing methods used in biotechnology. Students will be required to submit project proposals prior to the semester that they enroll. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Enrollment is dependent on proposal approval. Students will meet as a research group for three hours/week with the instructor. Prerequisites: 50.333 or 52.422 and permission of instructor.
50.489 Current Topics in Biology (3) - Critically examines a specialized topic in biology in a lecture/seminar format. Topic varies each semester offered. This course counts as a Group C, Natural Sciences & Math General Education Requirements. Three hours of lecture/seminar per week.
50.490 Internship in Biology and Biology Research (3-15) – provides a work-study program open only to juniors and seniors majoring in biology and allied health sciences. Only 3 semester hours may count towards biology electives. No more than 15 semester hours of internship may be taken.
50.493 Honors Independent Study I - Biological Research (3) - Consists of a laboratory or field investigation of a particular problem or topic in biology. The study will be conducted under the supervision of a biology faculty member. The course is open to biology students in the Honors Program. Prerequisite: 08.300 and admission to the Honors Program.
50.494 Honors Independent Study II - Biological Research (3) - Consists of a laboratory or field investigation of a selected problem or topic in biology. The study will be conducted under the supervision of a biology faculty member. This course completes the requirements for Biology Honors research. Prerequisite: 50.493.
50.520 Global Change Biology (3) - Explores the biological consequences of current environment change including rising atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, increased temperature, altered precipitation patterns, increased UV radiation, nitrogen deposition, the spread of exotic species, and land-use changes. Readings will be drawn from primary scientific literature. Three hours of lecture/seminar per week. Prerequisite: Graduate Status in Biology.
50.530 Evolution (3) - Studies the major concerns of the theory of evolution and contributions toward their solutions made by genetics, paleontology, systematics and ecology. Three hours of lecture per week.
50.531 Developmental Biology (3) - Studies the genetic, molecular, cellular and morphological changes that occur during development. Current mechanistic concepts in development will be presented along with classical embryology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the processes that direct a fertilized single-cell egg to develop into a complex multi-cellular organism. Particular attention will be paid to recent molecular mechanisms, which are revolutionizing our understanding of the developmental process. Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor.
50.532 - Microbial and Molecular Genetics (3) – Studies macromolecules, macromolecular complexes, protein synthesis and gene regulation using viruses, bacteria and lower eukaryotes. Topics include DNA/chromosome structure, genetic recombination, plasmids, transposons, recombinant DNA and genetic analysis. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. The laboratory hours will vary. Prerequisites: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor.
50.535 Bioinformatics and Genomic Analysis (3) - Concerns itself with understanding and manipulating genomic sequence information with regards to extracting meaningful information about genes, gene structure, gene regulation, and gene evolution. A bioinformatics approach will be used to identify coding, non-coding and regulatory sequence in a variety of plant and animal species. The course will focus on the kinds of information that can be extracted from large DNA sequences in order to understand gene function. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding our genetic predisposition(s) to disease and the relationship of the human genome to the genomes of other organisms. Three hours of lecture and two hours of computer laboratory each week. Prerequisites: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor.
50.542 Virology (3) - Examines the common strategies viruses employ to infect diverse hosts as well as the unique characteristics of viral pathogenesis in the human host. Topics will include the nature of viruses, how viruses are classified, the molecular events in the infection and replication of viruses in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, how viruses cause disease in humans, the host response to virus infection, and the spread and control of viruses infecting humans. Prions and other subviral agents will also be examined. Three hours of lecture/week. Effective Spring 2007. Graduate Status or consent of instructor
50.550 Mycology (3) - Surveys the kingdom Fungi with emphasis on the Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Deuteromycota. Lectures cover morphology, physiology, biochemistry, cytology, genetics, systematics, ecology, and evolution. Laboratory sessions stress comparative morphology of higher fungi, laboratory techniques, and field mycology. Two hours lecture/3 hours laboratory per week.
50.551 Conservation Biology (3) - Presents the science of preserving biodiversity and sustaining the Earth. Draws on and synthesizes information from the fields of ecology, evolution, genetics, philosophy, economics, sociology and political science. Emphasis on the development of strategies for preserving populations, species, biological communities and entire ecosystems in the face of growing human populations and our impact on the environment. Brings scientific principles and theory to the problems of management for preserving the richness of life on Earth. Three hours of seminar per week.
50.552 Limnology (3) – Explores chemical, biological and physical aspects of freshwater lakes, ponds and streams and their biota. The course includes laboratory and field investigations. Two hours of lecture and 3 hours of field work per week.
50.559 Ornithology (3) - Presents the biology of birds along with bird identification in the field and from museum collections along with a review of ornithological literature. Emphasis is placed on bird vocalizations, behavior and morphology in making identifications. Students deliver a presentation on an ornithological topic and participate in class discussions. Field trips to study birds of the area also include an extended trip to an area such as Wallops Island, VA. Extra costs will be incurred for the extended trip. Two hours lecture, three hours laboratory per week. Off-campus field trips are required.
50.560 Population Biology (3) - Provides a rigorous treatment of the characteristics of natural populations of animals, plants and fungi. Introduces students to current concepts in speciation, ecological models of population structure and dynamics and principles of population genetics. Stresses current research, theoretical and computational mathematical models and current techniques in the study of populations. Additional time commitments and costs will be incurred for required extended off-campus field trips. Three hours of lecture/discussion per week. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor
50.561 Animal Behavior (3) – Provides an in-depth introduction to modern behavioral biology, ecology and evolution. Emphasizes current models of animal behavior and theoretical foundations of ethology. Project oriented. Students master appropriate theory, familiarize themselves with appropriate literature and apply principles in project designed by the students under the direction of the professor. Additional time commitments and costs will be incurred for required off-campus field trips. Three hours of lecture discussion, two hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor
50.571 Endocrinology (3) - Studies the individual glands of the endocrine system with respect to their development, morphology, function, regulation, and significance in integrating physiological activities of higher vertebrates. Three hours lecture per week. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor
50.576 Neurophysiology (3) - Examines normal physiology of the nervous, specifically studying cellular neurophysiology, sensory physiology, motor control and their integration. Three hours lecture and discussion per week. Background in mammalian physiology, brain anatomy, and biochemistry. Three hours lecture per week. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor
50.580 Comparative Animal Physiology (3) - Concerns itself with the adaptation of animals to their environments. Adaptive mechanisms for marine, freshwater, terrestrial and extreme environments will be examined using a combination of morphological, physiological, biochemical, molecular and evolutionary perspectives. The course will focus on a broad range of invertebrate and vertebrate animals with the goal of understanding the physiological and biochemical strategies they have evolved that allow them to successfully thrive within the uniqueness of each environment. Three hours of lecture per week. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor.
50.589 Current Topics in Biology (3) - Examines critically a specialized topic in biology in a lecture/seminar format. Topic varies each semester offered. May be repeated once, provided that the topic is different. Three hours of lecture/seminar per week.
50.591 Directed Study in Biology (3) - An independent investigation, conducted under the direction of a member of the Department of Biological and Allied Health Sciences, in an area of biology in which the student has a particular interest. The student is encouraged to identify a problem, employ an experimental design, and analyze collected data. Study of pertinent literature is required. Enrollment requires prior approval of a project proposal. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.S. or M.Ed. Program in Biology, or permission of instructor.
50.592 Master of Education Thesis (1-6) - Independent research and the preparation of a formal thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education in biology. Prerequisite: Admission to Candidacy for the Master of Education in biology.
50.593 Master of Science Thesis (1-6) - Independent research and the preparation of a formal thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in biology. Prerequisite: Admission to Candidacy for the Master of Science in biology.