Biology
The Department of Biology has extensive resources to support superior teaching and research in all the major areas of contemporary biological sciences to prepare students for medical school, other graduate or professional studies, teaching, or careers in industry or government.
The department is housed in the state-of-the-art Michael R. and Marilyn C. Quinlan Life Sciences Education and Research Center. This innovative facility features modern teaching and research labs, where students learn to operate the latest equipment used in scientific experiments. Students routinely engage in faculty-guided research with focus areas in Ecology, Evolution, Developmental Genetics, Bioinformatics, Neuroscience and Molecular/Cellular Biology.
Major facilities in the Department include electron/confocal microscopy, micro-CT X-ray scanners, animal/insect care facilities, artificial streams, field research vehicles/equipment, and greenhouses. The building itself is energy efficient with sunshades, and the green roof/prairie simulation helps Chicago manage rainwater. With Lake Michigan just steps away, students have another natural resource at their fingertips. Students can access the Loyola University Retreat and Ecology Campus (LUREC) in Woodstock, Illinois for field studies.
Students have access to the Cudahy Library collection, which includes more than 200,000 volumes, and subscriptions to more than 300 biological journals. Loyola’s electronic research holdings allow world-wide access to cutting edge research reports and journal articles.
Undergraduate Policies and Procedures
Please see Undergraduate Policies and Procedures for academic policies that supersede those of academic units within the University.
Biology (BIOL)
BIOL 101 General Biology I (3 Credit Hours)
Fundamental principles of Biology including: introduction to the scientific method, basic biological chemistry; cell structure and function; energy transformations; mechanisms of cell communication; cellular reproduction; and principles of genetics.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics, Bioinformatics, Forensic Science
Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the historical foundations, methodologies employed, general architecture and functioning of the cell - the basic unit of life
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the historical foundations, methodologies employed, general architecture and functioning of the cell - the basic unit of lifeBIOL 102 General Biology II (3 Credit Hours)
A continuation of BIOL 101. Fundamental principles of Biology including: evolutionary theory; general principles of ecology; study of plant structure and function; and comparative animal physiology.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics, Forensic Science
Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of ecology and evolution, as well as the anatomy and physiology of representative plant and animal phyla
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of ecology and evolution, as well as the anatomy and physiology of representative plant and animal phylaBIOL 110 Liberal Arts Biology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisite: ENVS 101 or ENVS 137; No requirement for students with a declared major or minor in the Department of Anthropology, Department of Biology, Department of Chemistry, Department of Environmental Science, Department of Physics, Bioinformatics, Forensic Science or Neuroscience. Liberal Arts Biology is a second tier core course in the area of Scientific Literacy. It covers fundamental principles of biological sciences at a level for non-science majors. The focus of the course will vary depending on expertise of the instructor. All instructors will address the same fundamental principles..
Knowledge Area: Tier 2 Scientific Knowledge
Students understand the scientific method, diversity of life, classification of organisms, cell structure and function, the chromosomal and molecular basis of inheritance, and organ systems of the human body
Outcomes
Students understand the scientific method, diversity of life, classification of organisms, cell structure and function, the chromosomal and molecular basis of inheritance, and organ systems of the human bodyBIOL 111 General Biology I Lab (1 Credit Hour)
Complements General Biology I lecture material through observation, experimentation, and when appropriate, dissection of representative organisms. Physical and chemical phenomena of life as well as systematics and comparative anatomy and physiology of selected organisms will be examined.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics, Forensic Science
Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of living organisms, including comparisons in cell structure and function, and comparative organismal evolution and ecology
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of living organisms, including comparisons in cell structure and function, and comparative organismal evolution and ecologyBIOL 112 General Biology II Lab (1 Credit Hour)
Complements General Biology II lecture material through observation, experimentation, and when appropriate, dissection of representative organisms. Physical and chemical phenomena of life as well as systematics and comparative anatomy and physiology of selected organisms will be examined.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics, Forensic Science
Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of living organisms, including comparisons in cell structure and function, and comparative organismal evolution and ecology
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of living organisms, including comparisons in cell structure and function, and comparative organismal evolution and ecologyBIOL 195 Special Topics in Biology (1-4 Credit Hours)
Special Topics - Specific areas of study in the biological sciences.
BIOL 205 Plant Biology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
Lecture and laboratory. Survey of the principles of botany including development and reproduction, structure, phylogeny and metabolism."
Students will understand the basic morphology of plants; utilize morphology in the identification of local plants; understand the anatomy of plants; understand the relationship between anatomy and basic physiology; recognize that differences in physiological function allow different plants to be found in specific environments; appreciate the diversity of organisms called "plants
Outcomes
Students will understand the basic morphology of plants; utilize morphology in the identification of local plants; understand the anatomy of plants; understand the relationship between anatomy and basic physiology; recognize that differences in physiological function allow different plants to be found in specific environments; appreciate the diversity of organisms called "plantsBIOL 210 Laboratory Techniques (2 Credit Hours)
Lab sessions designed to prove a firm foundation in basic techniques and procedures, use of equipment and apparatus; keeping a lab notebook and in data collection and treatment.
Students will acquire basic skills needed to work in a research laboratory
Outcomes
Students will acquire basic skills needed to work in a research laboratoryBIOL 215 Ornithology (3 Credit Hours)
An introduction to the biology of birds including the topics of anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology and evolution. Includes some field trips to learn how to identify species and to collect behavioral information.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the biology of birds and be able to identify some of the commoner species of birds in our area
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the biology of birds and be able to identify some of the commoner species of birds in our areaBIOL 240 Psychology & Biology of Perception (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101; For Biology majors: BIOL 102, BIOL 112, and PSYC 101 Introduction to the study of sensory systems, especially vision and audition, emphasizing historical development of the field, multi-disciplinary scientific approaches; recent research and theory on the mechanisms of seeing and hearing; and applications of research to real-world problems
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Course equivalencies: X-PSYC240/BIOL240
BIOL 242 Human Structure and Function I (4 Credit Hours)
Lecture, laboratory, and demonstrations. Organization of the human body from the cellular to the organismal level. Anatomy of body systems and their physiology related to 1) support and movement (integumentary, skeletal and muscular systems) and integration and control (nervous and endocrine systems). Dissection of representative organs is required.
Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of human anatomy at the microscopic and gross levels; They will be able to correlate structure and function and will have a firm understanding of the organizing principle of human physiology, homeostasis and explain the role of the nervous and endocrine systems in its maintenance
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of human anatomy at the microscopic and gross levels; They will be able to correlate structure and function and will have a firm understanding of the organizing principle of human physiology, homeostasis and explain the role of the nervous and endocrine systems in its maintenanceBIOL 243 Human Structure and Function II (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 242 Lecture, laboratory and demonstrations
A continuation of BIOL 242. Anatomy of body systems and their physiology related to 1) regulation and maintenance (cardiovascular, lymphatic respiratory, digestive and urinary systems) and reproduction and development (male and female reproductive systems.) Dissection of representative organs is required. Prerequisites are BIOL 101, 102, 111, 112, BIOL 242 and CHEM 101, 102, 111, 112.
Students will be able to demonstrate a comprehensive integrated knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology at all levels
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate a comprehensive integrated knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology at all levelsBIOL 246 Ancient Human-Animal Interactions (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: For BIOL-BS, BIOL-MINR, and BIOE-BS students: BIOL 102; for all others: ANTH 101, ANTH 104, BIOL 102, ENVS 101, or ENVS 137
This course focuses on human-animal interactions in the past and covers how humans have shaped the geographic ranges and behaviors of animals today. Questions on whether humans caused prehistoric animal extinctions and how animal domestication occurred will be explored using evidence from archaeological and paleontological records around the world.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of how archaeologists use empirical data to answer questions about prehistoric human-animal interactions
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate an understanding of how archaeologists use empirical data to answer questions about prehistoric human-animal interactionsBIOL 251 Cell Biology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: Biophysics majors ONLY: (BIOL 101 and 111) and (CHEM 102 or CHEM 106 or CHEM 180); All other majors: BIOL 102 and 112) and [(CHEM 102 and 112) or CHEM 106 or CHEM 180]
This course covers basic molecular and cellular studies of living organisms, emphasizing the relationships between subcellular structures and biochemical and physiological functions of cells.
Students will become familiar with a wide range of cell biological principles and experimental approaches that led to important discoveries, gain an appreciation of the scientific method, and learn about the goals of modern cell biology research
Outcomes
Students will become familiar with a wide range of cell biological principles and experimental approaches that led to important discoveries, gain an appreciation of the scientific method, and learn about the goals of modern cell biology researchBIOL 252 Cell Biology Laboratory (1 Credit Hour)
Co-requisites: BIOL 251
Pre or Laboratory experiences designed to explore relationships between structure and function of subcellular components.
Working knowledge of a variety of techniques utilized in the cell biology laboratory
Outcomes
Working knowledge of a variety of techniques utilized in the cell biology laboratoryBIOL 265 Ecology (3 Credit Hours)
Relationships of organisms to their environment and to each other at the organism, population, community, and ecosystem levels.
Students will understand the fundamental principles governing the interactions of organisms and their environment at the population, community, and ecosystem levels
Outcomes
Students will understand the fundamental principles governing the interactions of organisms and their environment at the population, community, and ecosystem levelsBIOL 266 Ecology Laboratory (1 Credit Hour)
Co-requisites: BIOL 265
Pre or Laboratory and field experience designed to illustrate the principles of ecology and to give students experience in collecting, processing, and analyzing data. Field trips required.
Course equivalencies: BIOL266/ESP 266
Students will understand the methodology and use techniques in studying interactions of organisms to the environment and to each other at the organism, population, community, and ecosystem levels
Outcomes
Students will understand the methodology and use techniques in studying interactions of organisms to the environment and to each other at the organism, population, community, and ecosystem levelsBIOL 280 Evolution of Human Disease (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 102
The complex interaction between humans and pathogens is explored throughout time, with particular emphasis on the role and impact of human biology, human culture, and changing environments.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics
Course equivalencies: X-ANTH280/BIOL280/BIET280
Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the human immunological system, competing paradigms of human health, the processes and mechanisms of biological evolution, the pathogeneses of specific diseases, and the archaeological, paleopathological, paleodemographic, and historical data used to explore the evolution of disease
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the human immunological system, competing paradigms of human health, the processes and mechanisms of biological evolution, the pathogeneses of specific diseases, and the archaeological, paleopathological, paleodemographic, and historical data used to explore the evolution of diseaseBIOL 281 Evolution of the Human Diet (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: For BIOL-BS, BIOL-MINR, and BIOE-BS students: BIOL 102; for all others: ANTH 101 or BIOL 102
This interdisciplinary course explores the evolution of the human diet utilizing a biocultural perspective. The complex interplay between our diet, biology, and culture is examined through energy acquisition, primate and hominin nutrition, the Agricultural Revolution and Industrialization on human health, food sustainability, and nutritional inequality through socioeconomic and gender lenses.
Students will identify the role food has played throughout the 6-7 million years of human evolution, and its significance in terms of climate change variability, evolutionary adaptations and contemporary inequality
Outcomes
Students will identify the role food has played throughout the 6-7 million years of human evolution, and its significance in terms of climate change variability, evolutionary adaptations and contemporary inequalityBIOL 282 Genetics (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: For Bioinformatics and Biophysics Majors ONLY: BIOL 101; CHEM 102 or CHEM 106 or CHEM 180; For all other majors: BIOL 102, 112; CHEM 102 or CHEM 106 or CHEM 180
This course surveys principles and processes of genetic inheritance, gene expression, molecular biology, developmental, quantitative, population and evolutionary genetics.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioinformatics, Forensic Science
Students will develop knowledge and awareness of the genetic bases of modern biology; They will understand Mendelian principles of inheritance, chromosome and DNA structure and replication, gene expression, molecular biology, genetic bases of development and other biological processes, and quantitative, population and evolutionary genetics
Outcomes
Students will develop knowledge and awareness of the genetic bases of modern biology; They will understand Mendelian principles of inheritance, chromosome and DNA structure and replication, gene expression, molecular biology, genetic bases of development and other biological processes, and quantitative, population and evolutionary geneticsBIOL 283 Genetics Laboratory (1 Credit Hour)
Experiments and demonstrations to illustrate chromosomal structures and transmission, molecular biology, gene linkage, gene frequencies and variation.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioinformatics, Forensic Science
Students will develop technical skills and ability to interpret data from a variety of types of genetics experiments
Outcomes
Students will develop technical skills and ability to interpret data from a variety of types of genetics experimentsBIOL 284 Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL/PSYC 202; For Biology Majors: BIOL 102 & 112
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will understand theories regarding brain mechanisms, underlying mental events and the technologies used for studying these mechanisms
Outcomes
Students will understand theories regarding brain mechanisms, underlying mental events and the technologies used for studying these mechanismsBIOL 296 Introduction to Research (1 Credit Hour)
Students will begin reading the literature in the field of their mentor, conduct experiments designed by the mentor, and give a presentation on their work or studies, in preparation for upper level undergraduate research.
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Students will develop critical reading skills and become familiar with basic lab techniques in the area of their mentor
Outcomes
Students will develop critical reading skills and become familiar with basic lab techniques in the area of their mentorBIOL 302 General Microbiology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
Fundamental concepts of microbial life, physiology, and metabolism.
Students will learn the differences between the 3 domains of life and will comprehend the biochemistry, morphology, growth characteristics, structure and ecology of microbes
Outcomes
Students will learn the differences between the 3 domains of life and will comprehend the biochemistry, morphology, growth characteristics, structure and ecology of microbesBIOL 303 Seminar in Neuroscience (1 Credit Hour)
Pre-requisites: NEUR 101 with a grade of C- or better
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Course equivalencies: X-BIOL303/NEUR300
Students will demonstrate understanding of the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of modern neuroscience, and the research questions and experimental approaches used at the Lakeshore and Medical Center campuses
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of modern neuroscience, and the research questions and experimental approaches used at the Lakeshore and Medical Center campusesBIOL 304 Intro to Developmental Biology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 251
The analysis of developmental processes such as; fertilization, embryonic cleavage, cell determination and cell differentiation in selected species. Emphasis will be on experiments that reveal how these processes are controlled at the molecular and cellular levels.
Students will become familiar with a wide range of developmental biology principles and experimental approaches that led to important discoveries, gain an appreciation of the scientific method, and learn about the goals of modern developmental biology research
Outcomes
Students will become familiar with a wide range of developmental biology principles and experimental approaches that led to important discoveries, gain an appreciation of the scientific method, and learn about the goals of modern developmental biology researchBIOL 307 Biology of Stem Cells (3 Credit Hours)
Stem cell research represents an exciting area of biology. This course will cover the early discoveries that launched the field of stem cell biology, the different types of stem cells that exist, potential therapeutic uses of stem cells, and the ethical implications of these discoveries and therapies.
Students will be able to read primary research articles, describe different stem cell types and therapeutic uses, and consider the ethical implications of stem cell research and therapies
Outcomes
Students will be able to read primary research articles, describe different stem cell types and therapeutic uses, and consider the ethical implications of stem cell research and therapiesBIOL 310 Categorical Data Analysis (3 Credit Hours)
An introduction to modern-day extensions of simple linear regression and ANOVA to the chi-square test including logistic regression and log-linear modelling techniques based on generalized linear models. Methods for matched-pair, small datasets, ordinal and multi-category data also discussed. This course focuses on applications using real-life data sets, and uses popular software packages.
BIOL 313 Lab in Psychobiology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: (BIOL/STAT 335 or PSYC 304) and (NEUR 101, PSYC/BIOL 240, or PSYC 382/BIOL 284); OR for PSYC-BS and Cognitive/Behavioral Neuroscience majors: PSYC 306 and (NEUR 101, PSYC/BIOL 240, or PSYC 382/BIOL 284) Minimum grades of C-
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Course equivalencies: X-PSYC311/BIOL313
BIOL 315 Introductory Immunology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
The study of the nature and molecular basis of immune responses. History and vocabulary of immunology; experiments involving immune recognition and destruction; theories regarding self-tolerance and immunological diseases.
Students will learn the morphology and histology of the cells involved in an immune response, as well as how the cells develop and the molecular mechanisms used to recognize and eliminate non-self material; The students will become familiar with the evasion strategies of pathogens and the consequences associated with either hyper or hypo-responsiveness
Outcomes
Students will learn the morphology and histology of the cells involved in an immune response, as well as how the cells develop and the molecular mechanisms used to recognize and eliminate non-self material; The students will become familiar with the evasion strategies of pathogens and the consequences associated with either hyper or hypo-responsivenessBIOL 316 Limnology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
An introduction to the structure and function of lake and stream ecosystems. The course includes the integration of physical, chemical, and biological parameters. Laboratories include weekend field trips to aquatic habitats.
Students will learn methods of sampling and analyzing physical, chemical and biological factors in lake and stream ecosystems, and how to integrate these complex data sets to answer ecosystem process-level questions; Students will learn to evaluate the trophic status and health of a lake by the end of the course
Outcomes
Students will learn methods of sampling and analyzing physical, chemical and biological factors in lake and stream ecosystems, and how to integrate these complex data sets to answer ecosystem process-level questions; Students will learn to evaluate the trophic status and health of a lake by the end of the courseBIOL 317 Models of Human Disease (3 Credit Hours)
This course explores approaches used to study human diseases from in vitro to in vivo levels and examines their strengths and weaknesses. Discussions will cover historical experiments and cutting-edge research to learn about the techniques used to generate data and how to interpret the results.
Students will gain knowledge about human diseases and techniques used to model aspects of those diseases in the laboratory
Outcomes
Students will gain knowledge about human diseases and techniques used to model aspects of those diseases in the laboratoryBIOL 318 General Virology (3 Credit Hours)
This course covers the molecular details of viral infection and the diverse strategies used by these pathogens to invade cells and avoid immune clearance. The focus will be on mammalian viruses of biomedical relevance.
Course equivalencies: BIOL 318 / BIOL 218
Students will be able to demonstrate detailed understanding of basic viral structure, basic viral replication/infection cycles, and specific examples of viruses and their infection strategies
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate detailed understanding of basic viral structure, basic viral replication/infection cycles, and specific examples of viruses and their infection strategiesBIOL 319 Evolution (3 Credit Hours)
This course focuses on analysis of processes and patterns of evolution. Topics include population genetic principles, fossil patterns and geologic ages, phylogenetic analysis of relationships of species, experimental approaches to evolutionary questions, and evolutionary perspectives on human biology and relationships.
Students will develop knowledge and awareness of evolutionary processes and patterns, the evidence for them, and how evolutionary hypotheses are tested experimentally; They will develop an appreciation of the primary literature through reading and discussing research articles
Outcomes
Students will develop knowledge and awareness of evolutionary processes and patterns, the evidence for them, and how evolutionary hypotheses are tested experimentally; They will develop an appreciation of the primary literature through reading and discussing research articlesBIOL 320 Animal Behavior (3 Credit Hours)
This course examines the biological basis of animal behavior including function and evolution of behavior patterns. Mechanisms and the adaptive significance of behaviors are examined and analyzed. BIOL 320 is cross-listed with ANTH 320.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Course equivalencies: X-ANTH320/BIOL320/ESP 320
Students will have an understanding of both proximate and ultimate causes of a broad array of behaviors in animals and their implications for the life histories of those animals
Outcomes
Students will have an understanding of both proximate and ultimate causes of a broad array of behaviors in animals and their implications for the life histories of those animalsBIOL 323 Comparative Anatomy Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
A study of homologous systems and vertebrate phylogeny in both lecture and lab.
Students will understand the evolutionary relationships and processes that are involved in the development of vertebrate anatomy
Outcomes
Students will understand the evolutionary relationships and processes that are involved in the development of vertebrate anatomyBIOL 325 Primatology-Behavior & Ecology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: ANTH 101 or any 100-level Biology course
This course examines primate behavior and ecology from a comparative and evolutionary perspective. Students will be introduced to the diversity across taxonomic groups within the Order Primates. Through class discussion and observation, students will explore key issues in primate studies. Students will develop and apply skills in primate observation.
Course equivalencies: X-ANTH325/BIOL325/ESP 325
Students will be able to describe the taxonomic diversity of non-human primates and explain the impact of biological, evolutionary, and ecological factors on primate behavior
Outcomes
Students will be able to describe the taxonomic diversity of non-human primates and explain the impact of biological, evolutionary, and ecological factors on primate behaviorBIOL 326 Human Osteology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
This course focuses on developing a deep understanding of the human skeleton and ways in which biological anthropologists and forensic anthropologists use this knowledge to explore human biological diversity. Through hands-on exercises and class discussion, students will build analytical skills that are foundational to many techniques used by professionals and will appreciate the complex ethical considerations inherent to the fields of biological and forensic anthropology. Pre-requisites: BIOL 102 and BIOL 112; ANTH 101 or ANTH 103.
Interdisciplinary Option: Forensic Science
Course equivalencies: X-ANTH326/BIOL326
Students will be able to demonstrate superior knowledge of skeletal anatomy, analyses of skeletal remains from archaeological contexts, and apply current techniques designed to understand and explore human variation, stature, ancestry, age-at-death, sex, and pathological conditions
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate superior knowledge of skeletal anatomy, analyses of skeletal remains from archaeological contexts, and apply current techniques designed to understand and explore human variation, stature, ancestry, age-at-death, sex, and pathological conditionsBIOL 327 Wetland Ecology (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265
An introduction to the study of wetlands habitats. This course includes discussion of physical and chemical factors, biota, production and community dynamics. Laboratories include several field trips to regional wetland habitats.
Course equivalencies: BIOL327/ESP 327
Students will understand the functioning of wetlands, become aware of the variety of wetlands and become familiar with wetland biota, especially wetland plants
Outcomes
Students will understand the functioning of wetlands, become aware of the variety of wetlands and become familiar with wetland biota, especially wetland plantsBIOL 328 Conservation Biology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265
This course explores species diversity, natural and human induced extinctions, environmental ethics, and conservation practices being developed at the population, community, and ecosystem levels.
Course equivalencies: X-BIOL328/ESP 330
Students will be able to describe conservation strategies being used by institutions around the world and understand the ecological theory that supports those strategies
Outcomes
Students will be able to describe conservation strategies being used by institutions around the world and understand the ecological theory that supports those strategiesBIOL 329 Winter Ecology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265 or permission of instructor
The goal for Winter Ecology is to teach you about ecosystems in winter by immersing you in the winter environment at LUREC during J-term. Topics include the habitats on, in, and under snow, the morphological, physiological, life cycle modifications of temperate plants, and the winter adaptations of birds.
Students will gain understanding of habitats and organisms present during winter in temperate ecosystems and gain experience with field techniques employed when studying these ecosystems
Outcomes
Students will gain understanding of habitats and organisms present during winter in temperate ecosystems and gain experience with field techniques employed when studying these ecosystemsBIOL 330 Global Change Biology (3 Credit Hours)
Human activities are changing our planet to such an extent that scientists have proposed we are in a new geological epoch, the 'Anthropocene'. Through lectures, discussions, and group projects we will examine key elements of global change including biodiversity loss, land-use alterations, climate change, and pollution.
Learn global element cycles that drive biological processes; Read, critique, and discuss primary scientific literature
Outcomes
Learn global element cycles that drive biological processes; Read, critique, and discuss primary scientific literatureBIOL 335 Intro to Biostatistics (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 102, MATH 132 or MATH 162 (as pre-requisite or co-requisite) or MATH 162A; Students may take MATH 162 as a prerequisite for STAT/BIOL 335 or take it concurrently as a corequisite with STAT/BIOL 335; For Bioinformatics Majors: only BIOL 101, MATH 132 or MATH 162 (as pre-requisite or co-requisite) or MATH 162A
An introduction to statistical methods used in designing biological experiments and in data analyses. Topics include probability and sampling distribution, designed biological experiments and analysis of variance, regression and correlation, stochastic processes, and frequency distributions. Computer laboratory assignments with biological data.
Interdisciplinary Option: Forensic Science
Course equivalencies: X-BIOL335/STAT335
BIOL 336 Advanced Biostatistics (3 Credit Hours)
This course provides an overview of advanced topics in applied statistics with particular application in biology and medicine, including the interpretation of Minitab, SAS and S-Plus computer output.
Course equivalencies: X-STAT336/BIOL336
Students interested in applied statistical methods will obtain skill in experimental design, linear regression, categorical data analysis and logistic analysis, nonlinear regression, bioassay and drug synergy methods, as well as multivariate and survival statistical methods
Outcomes
Students interested in applied statistical methods will obtain skill in experimental design, linear regression, categorical data analysis and logistic analysis, nonlinear regression, bioassay and drug synergy methods, as well as multivariate and survival statistical methodsBIOL 337 Quantitative Methods in Bioinformatics (3 Credit Hours)
This course develops the mathematical and statistical methods necessary to analyze and interpret genomic and proteomic data, including signal analysis, sequence alignment methods, data-base search methods useful in bioinformatics and data mining.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioinformatics
Course equivalencies: XSTAT337/BIOL337/BIOI337
Students will obtain the quantitative skills used in BLAST, including inference, stochastic processes and hidden Markov models, random walks, microarray analysis and biological sequence analysis
Outcomes
Students will obtain the quantitative skills used in BLAST, including inference, stochastic processes and hidden Markov models, random walks, microarray analysis and biological sequence analysisBIOL 340 Natural History of Belize (3 Credit Hours)
This Study Abroad field course is designed to build on the foundations learned in Ecology, Environmental Science, and Anthropology classes by examining the biodiversity and tropical ecosystems of Belize, by exploring the cultural traditions of some of its peoples, particularly the Mayans; and learn how local communities are involved in protecting and sustaining ecological and natural sites through community based conservation and sustainability practices Enrollment Conditions: For Environmental Science or Environmental Studies Majors/Minors: ENVS 137 For Biology Majors/Minors: BIOL 102 & 112 For Anthropology or International Studies Majors/Minors: Junior or Senior Standing
Provide a working understanding of the structure, function, and ecology of tropical ecosystems; their importance to local communities; and the social dimensions of environmental issues, especially those related to justice
Outcomes
Provide a working understanding of the structure, function, and ecology of tropical ecosystems; their importance to local communities; and the social dimensions of environmental issues, especially those related to justiceBIOL 341 Histology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
This course examines the microscopic anatomy of the four basic adult tissue types and how they are arranged and utilized in the construction of the major vertebrate organ systems.
The major learning objectives for this course are (1) to become familiar with the gross and microscopic anatomy of cells, tissues and organs and (2) to understand how these anatomical features correlate with specific physiological functions
Outcomes
The major learning objectives for this course are (1) to become familiar with the gross and microscopic anatomy of cells, tissues and organs and (2) to understand how these anatomical features correlate with specific physiological functionsBIOL 342 Human Anatomy (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 242, BIOL 243, BIOL 251, BIOL 282; CHEM 222 or CHEM 224 or (CHEM 240 pre-req and CHEM 260 co-req)
A mixed lecture and laboratory course providing an in-depth look at the human body at the level of gross anatomy.
Interdisciplinary Option: Forensic Science
Students will acquire an advanced understanding of the structure and relationships of major organ systems in the human body
Outcomes
Students will acquire an advanced understanding of the structure and relationships of major organ systems in the human bodyBIOL 344 Microbial Evolution and Human Well-being (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 282
The course explores the many ways, both positive and negative, that the evolution of bacteria, viruses, and other microbes affects humans. Topics include infectious disease, the human microbiome, food production, and environmental microbes. The course is centered around reading and analyzing primary literature.
Students will apply fundamental evolutionary principles to microbes, understand the broad relevance of microbial evolution to human life, and read and communicate about primary literature on the topic
Outcomes
Students will apply fundamental evolutionary principles to microbes, understand the broad relevance of microbial evolution to human life, and read and communicate about primary literature on the topicBIOL 346 Biology of Women (3 Credit Hours)
This course focuses on the anatomy and physiology of women at different and critical times in their life span. This course also addresses social issues that effect women at different points in their life. Topics include the evolution of sex, gender differentiation, and reproduction.
Interdisciplinary Option: Women & Gender Studies
Course equivalencies: BIOL346/WOST346/ANTH346/WSGS
Students will learn about the biology of the female system, and how it changes with age; Students will also learn through discussions and guest lectures the interplay between society, medicine and gender
Outcomes
Students will learn about the biology of the female system, and how it changes with age; Students will also learn through discussions and guest lectures the interplay between society, medicine and genderBIOL 347 Bird Conservation and Ecology (3 Credit Hours)
This engaged-learning course provides an introduction to the theory and practice of avian conservation, ecology and management. Field trips for viewing birds in the wild, observing behavior and collecting data on habitat assessments are highlighted. Students participate in a community service project to gather data for avian conservation and management.
Students will become skilled in critical reasoning and some bird monitoring techniques, and demonstrate an understanding of the many facets of bird conservation
Outcomes
Students will become skilled in critical reasoning and some bird monitoring techniques, and demonstrate an understanding of the many facets of bird conservationBIOL 348 Field Ornithology (3 Credit Hours)
Field ornithology is an intensive 3-week engaged-learning course at the Loyola University Retreat and Ecology Campus during the peak of the migratory season intended to provide an introduction to the theory and practice of field ornithology. Emphasis will be on field identification and song recognition, census techniques, and avian behavior.
Students will become skilled in critical reasoning, field techniques, and scientific investigation that demonstrate an understanding of knowledge and techniques used in field ornithology
Outcomes
Students will become skilled in critical reasoning, field techniques, and scientific investigation that demonstrate an understanding of knowledge and techniques used in field ornithologyBIOL 349 Conservation and Sustainability of Neotropical Ecosystems (3 Credit Hours)
This course provides an introduction to conservation ecology in Neotropical ecosystems via classroom sessions and experiential learning activities during a Spring-Break field trip to Belize. Students will gain experience in environmental monitoring and biological survey methods. Ecosystems studied: coral reefs, mangrove forests, subtropical rain and dry forests, savannas, rivers, wetlands. Enrollment Conditions: For Biology Majors/Minors: BIOL 265; For Environmental Science Majors: ENVS 280
Students will gain an understanding of tropical climates, neotropical terrestrial/aquatic ecosystems and applied conservation and environmental practices such as nature reserve design and management, community-based resource management, ecotourism, and ecoagriculture
Outcomes
Students will gain an understanding of tropical climates, neotropical terrestrial/aquatic ecosystems and applied conservation and environmental practices such as nature reserve design and management, community-based resource management, ecotourism, and ecoagricultureBIOL 350 Vertebrate Physiology (3 Credit Hours)
This is an introduction to the physiology of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial vertebrates. Understanding how physiological concepts are manifested by animals facing different environmental challenges is emphasized. Topics to be covered include metabolism and energy balance, nervous and endocrine function, respiration, circulation, water balance and ionic regulation, and excretion.
Compare and contrast how various vertebrates utilize major organ systems to maintain homeostasis; Describe how common physiological principles are manifested through vertebrates' adaptation to their environments
Outcomes
Compare and contrast how various vertebrates utilize major organ systems to maintain homeostasis; Describe how common physiological principles are manifested through vertebrates' adaptation to their environmentsBIOL 351 Sleep/Circadian Rhythms (3 Credit Hours)
We will cover circadian rhythms one very prominent circadian-regulated behavior: sleep. We will investigate these topics at several different levels, spanning from cellular and molecular mechanisms to systems and behavioral approaches, and finally will look at pathologies of these systems that lead to human disorders.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will become familiar with a variety of model systems used to study circadian rhythms, and learn how to critically read primary literature and lead discussions of this reading
Outcomes
Students will become familiar with a variety of model systems used to study circadian rhythms, and learn how to critically read primary literature and lead discussions of this readingBIOL 352 Neurobiology of Feeding in Health and Disease (3 Credit Hours)
Multiple interconnecting systems, coupling the brain with the rest of the body, signal the need to consume food and when to stop. The overall aim of the course is to understand what drives us to eat and how dysregulation within these brain circuits underlies the contemporary obesity crisis.
By completing this course, students will achieve an advanced understanding of the fundamental principles that govern the brain's control of energy homeostasis
Outcomes
By completing this course, students will achieve an advanced understanding of the fundamental principles that govern the brain's control of energy homeostasisBIOL 353 Natural History of Vertebrates (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265
The objective of the course is to provide an in-depth study of the vertebrates in the Midwestern U.S. Topics will include the origin and evolution of vertebrates, and their ecology, behavior and specializations. The lab will focus on identification of vertebrate taxa and learning wildlife sampling techniques.
Understand specifics of ecology, behavior, life history, evolution and conservation of all vertebrate taxa; Read, analyze, interpret, and discuss peer-reviewed literature
Outcomes
Understand specifics of ecology, behavior, life history, evolution and conservation of all vertebrate taxa; Read, analyze, interpret, and discuss peer-reviewed literatureBIOL 354 Mammalian Reproduction (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 251
Anatomy and physiology of male and female reproductive systems, fertilization, implantation, pregnancy, and birth; immunological aspects of reproduction.
Students will understand structure/function relationships in reproductive biology and how reproductive systems are regulated at cellular levels
Outcomes
Students will understand structure/function relationships in reproductive biology and how reproductive systems are regulated at cellular levelsBIOL 355 Parasitology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
A study of animal parasites, their distribution, structure, adaptations, life cycles, and host relationships.
Students will learn to recognize the major groups of animal parasites, be able to explain their life cycles and describe the mechanisms that hosts use to ward off parasite infestation
Outcomes
Students will learn to recognize the major groups of animal parasites, be able to explain their life cycles and describe the mechanisms that hosts use to ward off parasite infestationBIOL 356 The Evolution of Animal Sex (3 Credit Hours)
Among animals, sex cannot be simplified down to X's and Y's, or even males and females. Sex is diverse and dynamic. The class will discuss modern research around three themes: 1) sexual differentiation, 2) animal weapons and ornaments, and 3) reproduction and mating systems.
Students will gain a deeper appreciation of the sexual diversity among animals at genetic, physiological, morphological and behavioral levels
Outcomes
Students will gain a deeper appreciation of the sexual diversity among animals at genetic, physiological, morphological and behavioral levelsBIOL 357 Neural Disease, Degeneration, and Regeneration (3 Credit Hours)
This course offers an overview of cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying common neurodegenerative disorders. Mechanisms of neuronal cell death and application of stem cells in CNS regeneration will also be covered. Students will learn by reading assigned background materials and research articles, and participating in class discussions.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will understand current advances of genetic, developmental, molecular, and cellular mechanisms underlying the neurodegenerative diseases; Students will also learn how disease mechanisms affect neural function, cognition, and behavior
Outcomes
Students will understand current advances of genetic, developmental, molecular, and cellular mechanisms underlying the neurodegenerative diseases; Students will also learn how disease mechanisms affect neural function, cognition, and behaviorBIOL 358 Developmental Neurobiology (3 Credit Hours)
This course focuses on cellular and molecular underpinnings of the development of neuronal features of the nervous system. Topics include neural induction and subsequent differentiation events, regulation of neuronal survival, axon guidance, target selection, and synaptogenesis.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will become familiar with principles of neural development and the studies that led to those principles; Students will also learn how to critically read primary research papers and present these papers to the class
Outcomes
Students will become familiar with principles of neural development and the studies that led to those principles; Students will also learn how to critically read primary research papers and present these papers to the classBIOL 359 Paleopathology (3 Credit Hours)
Normal bone tissue and normal bone alterations and the impact of various disease processes on skeletal tissue. Students will be taught to assess and interpret patterns of human disease in processual rather than typological terms.
Course equivalencies: X-ANTH359/BIOL359
Students will have command of biological anthropological approaches towards the understanding of human disease and will be familiar with theoretical issues germane to the field of paleopathology, biases and ethical issues, and the role that disease has played throughout human history
Outcomes
Students will have command of biological anthropological approaches towards the understanding of human disease and will be familiar with theoretical issues germane to the field of paleopathology, biases and ethical issues, and the role that disease has played throughout human historyBIOL 360 Field Biology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265 and permission of chair
Ecological study of an area in North America outside Midwest. Includes a field trip to a specific region. Trip is at student expense."
Students will become familiar with an ecosystem outside the Chicago Region; gain a first-hand understanding of the interrelationships of living things and their environment; develop a loving appreciation of "wilderness
Outcomes
Students will become familiar with an ecosystem outside the Chicago Region; gain a first-hand understanding of the interrelationships of living things and their environment; develop a loving appreciation of "wildernessBIOL 362 Neurobiology (3 Credit Hours)
The purpose of this course is to introduce major principles and concepts of modern neurobiology. An emphasis is placed upon an understanding of the electrophysiology of the neuron and the manner in which groups of neurons are organized into functional nervous systems subserving sensory, motor or integrative functions.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Student will gain a sold foundation in nervous system structure and function
Outcomes
Student will gain a sold foundation in nervous system structure and functionBIOL 363 Entomology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265
An introductory course that covers the morphology, metamorphosis, classification and biology of the major insect groups. The laboratory includes dissection and the use of analytical keys and figures to identify insect taxa. Field trips and student collections add to the laboratory experience.
Students will learn to identify major insect groups in the field and in the laboratory; They will also learn to distinguish immature insects from adult insects and to recognize the numerous beneficial insects as well as the small number that are detrimental
Outcomes
Students will learn to identify major insect groups in the field and in the laboratory; They will also learn to distinguish immature insects from adult insects and to recognize the numerous beneficial insects as well as the small number that are detrimentalBIOL 365 Writing a Scientific Manuscript (3 Credit Hours)
A Process from Data Collection to Writing a Scientific Manuscript. This course is designed for upper level students interested in practicing the scientific process; including hypothesis construction, experimental design, data collection, and writing of a scientific paper detailing Introduction, Methods, Results and Discussion.
Students would learn to develop hypotheses, design experiments based on those hypotheses, analyze data, and learn to construct and peer-review a scientific manuscript
Outcomes
Students would learn to develop hypotheses, design experiments based on those hypotheses, analyze data, and learn to construct and peer-review a scientific manuscriptBIOL 366 Cell Physiology & Biochemistry (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: Bioinformatics majors: CHEM 224 or CHEM 222 or (CHEM 240 pre-req and CHEM 260 co-req); All other majors: BIOL 251 & CHEM 224 or CHEM 222 or (CHEM 240 pre-req and CHEM 260 co-req)
Interdisciplinary Option: Forensic Science
Course equivalencies: X-BIOL366/BIOI366/CHEM361
Students will study the basic concepts of biochemistry and will understand how thermodynamics govern biochemical processes; Catalytic strategies, as well as the major pathways of both anabolism and catabolism, will also be learned
Outcomes
Students will study the basic concepts of biochemistry and will understand how thermodynamics govern biochemical processes; Catalytic strategies, as well as the major pathways of both anabolism and catabolism, will also be learnedBIOL 366L Cell Physiology & Biochemistry Lab (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to modern techniques and instrumentation with an emphasis on cellular metabolism and protein biochemistry including purification and quantitation methods and enzyme kinetics.
Interdisciplinary Option: Forensic Science
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Proficiency in performing a variety of biochemical assays and the ability to write up results as a formal lab report
Outcomes
Proficiency in performing a variety of biochemical assays and the ability to write up results as a formal lab reportBIOL 367 Bioimaging (4 Credit Hours)
This course focuses on light microscopy but also includes a section on Electron Microscopy. Topics include basic optical theory, history, sample preparation, microscope operation, digital image acquisition and analysis.
Students will become adept at producing publication quality images using a variety of imaging techniques; Students will also learn how to correctly interpret results and properly present their data
Outcomes
Students will become adept at producing publication quality images using a variety of imaging techniques; Students will also learn how to correctly interpret results and properly present their dataBIOL 368 Plant Ecology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265
Focuses on plant population dynamics; plant-animal interactions, including herbivory, pollination, dispersal; plant community dynamics, such as the processes of succession; and the effect of global climate on the distribution of major vegetation types. The laboratory is divided between weekend field trips to local forests, prairies and bogs, and laboratory studies.
Students will achieve familiarity with major vegetation types and especially with local vegetation and natural areas; understand the dynamics of plant communities; understand the nature of research in plant ecology and gain familiarity with the primary literature; understand environmental issues as they relate to plant ecology
Outcomes
Students will achieve familiarity with major vegetation types and especially with local vegetation and natural areas; understand the dynamics of plant communities; understand the nature of research in plant ecology and gain familiarity with the primary literature; understand environmental issues as they relate to plant ecologyBIOL 369 Invertebrate Biology (3 Credit Hours)
Broad survey of invertebrates including morphology, physiology, ecology, evolution, and systematics.
BIOL 370 Ichthyology Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265
Lecture and laboratory and/or field trips. Systematics, phylogeny, anatomy, physiology, behavior, functional morphology and ecology of fishes. Includes field collecting trips in Lake Michigan and local streams and lakes and individual projects/research papers.
Students will develop a detailed understanding of a range of topics in fish biology, with special emphasis on evolutionary relationships
Outcomes
Students will develop a detailed understanding of a range of topics in fish biology, with special emphasis on evolutionary relationshipsBIOL 373 Laboratory in Neuroscience I (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: NEUR 101, BIOL 251; and students must be either a Molecular/Cellular Neuroscience Major, a Cognitive/Behavioral Neuroscience major, or a Neuroscience Minor
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Course equivalencies: X-NEUR301/PSYC388/BIOL373
Students will demonstrate understanding of several research designs and methodologies of use in neuroscience research and will gain experience with basic neuroscience laboratory techniques
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of several research designs and methodologies of use in neuroscience research and will gain experience with basic neuroscience laboratory techniquesBIOL 375 Aquatic Insects Lecture & Laboratory (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 265
This course focuses on the classification and ecology of insects that have become fully or partially adapted to the aquatic environment. Emphasis will be on the ecology and biology (behavior, physiology and phylogeny) of aquatic insects. The course includes laboratory field trips to local and upper Midwest aquatic habitats.
Students will acquire an understanding of the ecological relationships between aquatic insects and their physical and biological environment, including their interactions with humans
Outcomes
Students will acquire an understanding of the ecological relationships between aquatic insects and their physical and biological environment, including their interactions with humansBIOL 376 Seminar in Molecular/Cellular Neuroscience (3 Credit Hours)
This lecture/discussion will span synaptic plasticity, modern approaches to studying neural circuits, and the therapeutic potential of neural stem cells. Students become familiar with principles of molecular/cellular approaches to the study of the nervous system through review articles and the primary literature.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will become familiar with principles of molecular/cellular approaches to the study of the nervous system; Students will also learn how to evaluate primary literature
Outcomes
Students will become familiar with principles of molecular/cellular approaches to the study of the nervous system; Students will also learn how to evaluate primary literatureBIOL 377 Molecular Pathogenesis (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to the molecular mechanisms of disease pathology and therapeutic and control strategies, using a particular disease as model.
Students will be able to explain the molecular basis for particular disease symptoms, understand therapeutic strategies, and use experimental results to form conclusions about disease molecular mechanisms
Outcomes
Students will be able to explain the molecular basis for particular disease symptoms, understand therapeutic strategies, and use experimental results to form conclusions about disease molecular mechanismsBIOL 378 Dental Anthropology (0 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: ANTH 101 or any 100-level Biology course
This course examines teeth with an anthropological perspective. By using evolution by natural selection as our theoretical framework, students will learn dental anatomy, morphology, and variation. The course then focuses on embryology, dental development and eruption, and the biocultural ways humans use their teeth.
Students will gain factual knowledge of teeth from an evolutionary perspective and will develop specific hands-on skills needed by dental anthropologists, dentists, and oral biologists including dental molding, casting, and wear scoring
Outcomes
Students will gain factual knowledge of teeth from an evolutionary perspective and will develop specific hands-on skills needed by dental anthropologists, dentists, and oral biologists including dental molding, casting, and wear scoringBIOL 378B Biological Topics for Bioethics Minor Capstone (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: Two prior science courses and two prior ethics courses required
The interdisciplinary team-taught Bioethics capstone course examines a topic in bioethics from both scientific and ethical points of view. Topics may include bio-technologies, concepts of race and gender, the environment, reproduction, and others. This course number provides an elective for Biology students when the Bioethics capstone's topic is biological.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics
Students will understand the connection between ethical and biological issues with regard to the special topic in biology
Outcomes
Students will understand the connection between ethical and biological issues with regard to the special topic in biologyBIOL 379B Biological Topics for Bioethics Minor Capstone (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: Two prior science courses and two prior ethics courses
The interdisciplinary team-taught Bioethics capstone course examines a topic in bioethics from both scientific and ethical points of view. Topics may include biotechnologies, concepts of race and gender, the environment, reproduction, and others. This course number provides an elective for Biology students when the Bioethics capstone's topic is biological.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics
Students will understand the connection between ethical and biological issues with regard to the special topic in biology
Outcomes
Students will understand the connection between ethical and biological issues with regard to the special topic in biologyBIOL 380 Genetics and Evolution of Development (3 Credit Hours)
This course explores the evolution of the embryo and the patterns of gene regulation and morphogenesis that drive early development. Topics include evolution of nervous system patterning, shared human, mouse and frog regulatory systems and evolution of human genetic syndromes.
Students will master the stages and regulation of development in a number of organisms through use of primary literature; Evidence of their mastery will be seen through grant writing exercises, in class presentations and conventional exams
Outcomes
Students will master the stages and regulation of development in a number of organisms through use of primary literature; Evidence of their mastery will be seen through grant writing exercises, in class presentations and conventional examsBIOL 381 Epigenetics (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 251 and BIOL 282; CHEM 222 or CHEM 224 or (CHEM 240 pre-req and CHEM 260 co-req)
This course will introduce students to epigenetic mechanisms operating throughout life, which include chromatin regulation, DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs. Students will gain an appreciation of how different cell types can maintain drastically different gene expression patterns yet share the exact same DNA sequences.
Students will understand epigenetic mechanisms, apply insights gained to evaluate the effect of epigenetic changes in development, disease and aging, and learn how to lead a class discussion
Outcomes
Students will understand epigenetic mechanisms, apply insights gained to evaluate the effect of epigenetic changes in development, disease and aging, and learn how to lead a class discussionBIOL 382 Molecular Genetics (3 Credit Hours)
This course covers the molecular details of genetic processes such as DNA replication, RNA and protein synthesis, gene regulation and genome organization.
Students will be able to demonstrate a detailed understanding of (1) basic molecular techniques, (2) the macromolecules involved in genetic processes, and (3) published experiments that underlie our knowledge of these processes
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate a detailed understanding of (1) basic molecular techniques, (2) the macromolecules involved in genetic processes, and (3) published experiments that underlie our knowledge of these processesBIOL 383 Population Genetics (3 Credit Hours)
Fundamental principles of population, ecological, and evolutionary genetics, including molecular evolution and analysis of the genetic structure of populations.
Students develop knowledge and awareness of population genetic theory and information; They learn how to apply basic tools of population genetic analysis
Outcomes
Students develop knowledge and awareness of population genetic theory and information; They learn how to apply basic tools of population genetic analysisBIOL 384 Microbial Pathogenesis of Infectious Disease (3 Credit Hours)
The course is focused on teaching students the way bacteria, viruses, fungi, and pathogens, can adhere, invade, replicate, and cause damage and disease in their hosts. The course focuses on the techniques used by researchers to ask questions about these processes.
Students will understand the ways pathogens cause disease, read and review primary literature, and apply techniques used in a grant proposal on a topic of their interest
Outcomes
Students will understand the ways pathogens cause disease, read and review primary literature, and apply techniques used in a grant proposal on a topic of their interestBIOL 385 Prin Electron Microscopy Lec/Lab (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: Permission of instructor, BIOL 341 recommended
This course focuses on the various areas of Electron Microscopy, both Scanning and Transmission. Topics include sample preparation, microscope operation, image acquisition using photographic and digital techniques, history and development, and new and special techniques.
Student will become adept with the various techniques needed to produce research quality electron micrographs; Students will also learn how to correctly interpret their results, and properly present their data
Outcomes
Student will become adept with the various techniques needed to produce research quality electron micrographs; Students will also learn how to correctly interpret their results, and properly present their dataBIOL 387 Genomics (3 Credit Hours)
Genomics is the compilation, characterization, and evaluation of DNA sequence information and its integration with established methods and genetic knowledge. This course will introduce the students to the study of genome structure and function and its application to biomedicine, agriculture, and evolution.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioinformatics
Course equivalencies: X-BIOL387/BIOI387
Students will acquire an in-depth knowledge of the nature of gene and genome structure, function, and evolution as well as the methods used to obtain and evaluate this knowledge; Students will be able to create meaningful web-based database search strategies and interpret the significance of results
Outcomes
Students will acquire an in-depth knowledge of the nature of gene and genome structure, function, and evolution as well as the methods used to obtain and evaluate this knowledge; Students will be able to create meaningful web-based database search strategies and interpret the significance of resultsBIOL 388 Bioinformatics (3 Credit Hours)
Students will engage in the applications of computer-based tools and database searching to better understand the fields of genetics, genomics, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine. Students will be introduced to scripting programming languages for analyzing biological data sets.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioinformatics
Course equivalencies: X-BIOL388/COMP381/BIOI388
Students will be able to appropriately use computer software and databases to accurately analyze biological data and interpret the results, applying their understanding of genetic processes
Outcomes
Students will be able to appropriately use computer software and databases to accurately analyze biological data and interpret the results, applying their understanding of genetic processesBIOL 389 Introduction to Pharmacology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 243, BIOL 251, BIOL 282; CHEM 222 or CHEM 224 or (CHEM 240 pre-req & CHEM 260 co-req)
Principles and mechanisms of drug action. Topics discussed include drug-receptor interaction, pharmacokinetics, drug distribution, metabolism, and neuro-transmission, blood-brain barrier, and toxicology.
Students will be able to describe the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action for a variety of the most commonly used drugs in current medical use
Outcomes
Students will be able to describe the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action for a variety of the most commonly used drugs in current medical useBIOL 390 Molecular Biology Laboratory (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: Bioinformatics majors: BIOL 282 & BIOL 283 and CHEM 222 or CHEM 224 or (CHEM 240 pre-req and CHEM 260 co-req); All other majors: BIOL 251, BIOL 282, BIOL 283 and CHEM 222 or CHEM 224 or (CHEM 240 pre-req and CHEM 260 co-req)
This course is an intensive laboratory course in the basic principles and techniques of molecular biology, including bacterial cloning, polymerase chain reaction, restriction mapping, agarose gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioinformatics, Neuroscience
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Course equivalencies: X-BIOL390/BIOI390
Students will be able to demonstrate basic molecular biology skills including manipulation of bacterial cultures and DNA, plasmid minipreps, gel electrophoresis, cloning, polymerase chain reaction, and other molecular techniques that may be specific to their chosen independent projects
Outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate basic molecular biology skills including manipulation of bacterial cultures and DNA, plasmid minipreps, gel electrophoresis, cloning, polymerase chain reaction, and other molecular techniques that may be specific to their chosen independent projectsBIOL 391 Forensic Molecular Biology Lecture and Lab (5 Credit Hours)
This course prepares students to work in forensic DNA analysis. The lectures cover the basic aspects of DNA structure and function while the laboratory gives students experience with the techniques and instruments used in forensic DNA analysis.
Interdisciplinary Option: Forensic Science
Students will have a strong theoretical understanding of STR marker origin, population biology, and legal uses, and will be able to isolate and process DNA for STR scoring
Outcomes
Students will have a strong theoretical understanding of STR marker origin, population biology, and legal uses, and will be able to isolate and process DNA for STR scoringBIOL 392 Metagenomics (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 282
Exploration of next-generation sequencing technologies for assessing microbial diversity in ecological niches.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioinformatics
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Students will gain hands-on experience with metagenomic methodologies while working in an interdisciplinary, collaborative setting
Outcomes
Students will gain hands-on experience with metagenomic methodologies while working in an interdisciplinary, collaborative settingBIOL 395 Special Topics in Biology (3 Credit Hours)
Special areas of study outside the usual curriculum, that vary each time the course is offered.
Students will master a unique topic in biology
Outcomes
Students will master a unique topic in biologyBIOL 395L Special Topics Laboratory (1-4 Credit Hours)
Laboratory. Special areas of study outside the usual curriculum, that vary each time the course is offered.
Students will master a unique topic in biology
Outcomes
Students will master a unique topic in biologyBIOL 396 Research (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: BIOL 296 (minimum 1 credit), Permission of Instructor; Contract Required
Laboratory or field research under faculty guidance emphasizing hypothesis testing, literature searches, experimental design, and use of appropriate techniques.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Course equivalencies: BIOL299/BIOL396
Students will learn the full set of research skills required in doing an independent project and reporting the results
Outcomes
Students will learn the full set of research skills required in doing an independent project and reporting the resultsBIOL 398 Internship in Biology (1-3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: Permission of Instructor; Contract required
A supervised field placement intended to give students training or work experience in aspects of biology that cannot be obtained on campus.
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Students will acquire practical experience in biology-related job settings
Outcomes
Students will acquire practical experience in biology-related job settingsBIOL 399 Individual Study (1-3 Credit Hours)
Permission of Instructor; Contract required. Directed study of a specific topic by an individual student studying with a single faculty member.
Students will master a unique topic in biology