65 courses with the subject BIOL, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
BIOL 101CP4 Environmental Issues3
The environmental issues that challenge our planet must be addressed by our global society. In this course, we will survey the science, ethics, policy, and technology relevant to these issues. Further, we will explore an array of issues including, but not limited to, overpopulation, biodiversity, pollution, global climate change, renewable and nonrenewable energy, and ocean conservation. Attributes: P4 YLIB ZCIV
This course explores the various scientific findings related to lifespan and health span extension by various means. First, we research and experience the dietary and physicality that produces the significant results for long life and low incidence of age-related disease. Next, the pharmacological focus of youth and beauty is examined at a cellular level. We explore the anti-aging properties of various plants and animals of the natural world. We inquire into the various drugs, supplements, and hormones that are currently being developed and in several cases, Typically offered: Fall - Even Years Attributes: LC YLIB
The laboratory component of the course complements material considered in class and provides hands-on activities that enable students to learn the techniques commonly used in a clinical microbiology lab. Upon completion of the course the student is able to carry out aseptic techniques, microbiological culture, identify microorganisms using a microscope and carry out diagnostic tests. Emphasis is placed on the use of the scientific method, the application of quantitative approaches to generate scientific data and the critical analysis, interpretation and repo Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB
A basic introduction to the classification, digestion, absorption, and ultimate use of nutrients. Includes aspects such as sources, consequences of deficiencies and excesses, energy production, and vitamin and mineral utilization. Discussions of contemporary problems, fad diets, and an individual evaluation of dietary intake are undertaken. Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: P4 YLIB
The nature of science as a distinctive way of knowing and the relationship between scientific understanding and personal and social policy decisions are explored through the investigation of contemporary issues in biology. Topics may include genetic technology, human evolution, the extinction crisis, and issues of human health and disease. This course may not be used as a Biology major or minor elective. Attributes: SQ YLIB ZCIV
This course will focus on exploring timely topics in modern biology. Students will become fluent in the terminology necessary to understand the topics under consideration. Information and quantitative literacy skills will also be emphasized. In addition, the scientific method will provide structure to each topic considered. Possible topics will include the interaction of humans and medicine, new species and the environment, and the tools scientists use to study these interactions. Laboratory experiences will be incorporated during regularly scheduled class t Offered in Summer only for HEOP students. Typically offered:
The natural world is changing rapidly, and this change undermines the sustainability of human societies. To reach sustainability, we must have an understanding of our natural home - our bioregion - and how human activities and choices fit into it. This course helps students learn about the bioregion of update New York in the context both of threats to our natural environment and of successes in preservation and restoration of our biological neighborhood. Typically offered:
Data is a cornerstone of decision-making in all disciplines. This course provides students with essential skills to gather, organize, interpret, and ethically present data in ways that enhance understanding and impact. Topics include designing effective data-gathering processes, organizing and analyzing datasets, creating clear visualizations, and understanding the ethical implications of data use. Students will develop these skills by exploring the role data plays in natural and life science discoveries; from data collection to learning how data communicates complex ideas to diverse audiences. Through activities, case studies, and independent projects, students will develop practical skills in data management and visualization while fostering a deeper appreciation for the power of data in all disciplines, not just science. Attributes: DA YLIB
Have you ever wondered how forensic investigators solve a crime? This course throws you behind the scenes of CSI (crime scene investigation). Through the use of the scientific method, math, and technology, students will sharpen their observational skills and learn about different aspects of forensic testing. This interactive course involves working in small groups to design and investigate simulated crime scenes to help students explore forensic science and gain an appreciation of the work of crime scene investigators and laboratory technicians. Typically offered:
Students study and practice skills central to academic and professional research through the development of independent, inquiry-based projects. In their projects, students assert, support, and integrate their own positions into a scholarly conversation based in research. Students develop competency in the location, evaluation, analysis and documentation of sources Typically offered:
The course provides an introduction to the language of medicine, focusing on the terminology used by healthcare professionals. Students will learn to identify, define, and use medical terms related to various body systems, diseases, diagnostic procedures, and treatments. Attributes: NLIB
This course begins the study of the structure and function of the human body including basic chemistry and investigations of cells and tissues. The integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems are considered in depth. Students must also register for the laboratory. Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB
The laboratory provides experimental study of the microscopic and macroscopic structure and function of the human body including cellular physiology and tissue identification. The anatomy and physiology of the skeleton, the muscular and the nervous systems (including sensory systems) are investigated. Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB
This course continues the study of the structure and function of the human body including the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Students must also register for the laboratory. Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB
This laboratory provides experimental study of the microscopic and macroscopic structure and function of the human body including endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Students consider in depth and present information on physiologically-based diseases. Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB
This course explores biology from molecules to cells through the themes of evolution, structure and function, genetic information, energy, and the interconnectedness of systems. Students will examine the relationships among Biology, society, and the environment through critical analysis of biological phenomena and creative problem solving. This course integrates hands-on learning laboratory exercises that will engage students in cellular and molecular techniques, including the manipulation of molecules, cells, and biological models. General Biolo Students who have received credit for BIOL 120C & BIOL 127L General Biology may not receive credit for BIOL 151. Typically offered:
This topics course introduces students to the academic study of biology and other related areas of interest. Topics will be determined by individual instructors. Students may take this course again for credit, but not with the same topic. Attributes: YLIB
Medical practice and scientific research in the biomedical sciences are, at their core, human activities governed by reason. The desire to uncover biological mechanisms and develop approaches to improve human health must be accompanied by universal moral principles governed by human reason. One of the most obvious contributions of Philosophy to the natural sciences today is found in the application of ethical thinking. Found in guidelines for responsible conduct in research, the design of clinical trials or everyday medical practice, ethical principles are m Attributes: YLIB
This course dives into the intersection of science and civic duty, an introductory course into the world of science policy and the role scientists, and non-scientists, have in incorporating science, scientific thinking, and technology in national policy. During the course, you will learn what science policy is and how to engage and communicate with civil and community leaders on various current scientific topics. Attributes: CCE YLIB
At least two additional 3- or 4- credit courses, one of which must be at the 300 level or above, excluding BIOL 4 Total: 18-20 credits Note: Although 100 level courses in biology may be used to fulfill this requirement, no courses from the foundati 2025-2026 Catalog » Academic Programs » Undergraduate » School of Arts and Sciences » Biology
This course will explore a variety of techniques used in the Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Information Technology fields as they apply in solving problems using Biotechnology. The course will focus on the theory and proper execution of techniques, including lab safety, sterile technique, manipulation of micro organisms, cell culture, gel electrophoresis, PCR, enzymatic assays, Western blotting, ELISAs, and DNA/protein purification. Content coverage includes all topics assessed on the Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE). Attributes: YLIB
The union between problem-solving skills and technology drives our understanding of biological principles and processes. This laboratory course introduces a range of modern cell biological techniques, including epigenetic inhibition of protein function in the model organism C. elegans, molecular cloning, light microscopy, immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence microscopy, protein expression, and protein interaction analysis. The scientific method of problem-solving, the various aforementioned techniques, and Internet biological databases/tools provide a Typically offered:
Parasites are ubiquitous in nature, influencing all aspects of life. They can alter food webs, exert mind-control on their hosts, cause catastrophic crop loss, and even temper the human immune system. Parasitism is found throughout the animal kingdom, from nematodes to arthropods to vertebrates. In this course we will examine the ecological and evolutionary impacts of parasites on their hosts, with an emphasis on the role of parasites on global public health. Attributes: YLIB
The multidisciplinary study of ethnobotany aims to document, describe, and explain complex relationships between cultures and (uses of) plants. The primary focus is on how plants are used, managed, and perceived across human societies. This course specifically emphasizes the impact of plants on human cultures, medicine, ethics, and intellectual property. Attributes: YLIB
This course examines the study of the functions at the tissue, organ, and organ-system levels of organization of humans and other animals. Consideration is given to the regulatory and integrative mechanisms and to the similarities and differences in physiological processes that have enabled animals to adapt to a variety of habitats Typically offered:
This course examines the study of functions at the tissue, organ, and organ-system levels of organization of humans and other animals. Consideration is given to the regulatory and integrative mechanisms. The primary focus is on human physiology, but a variety of animal taxa are examined, with their physiological adaptations compared. Typically offered:
Animal behavior is the study of what animals do. This class approaches this topic in two fashions: how animals do these behaviors (the proximate or mechanistic perspective) and why animals do things (the ultimate, or evolutionary perspective). The class discusses animals from all taxa. Topics include: nature vs. nurture, learning, the role of hormones in behavior, how sensory systems influence behavior, predator/prey interactions, mating systems, and altruism. Students will also read articles from the primary literature and conduct a few simple experiments o Attributes: YLIB ZEXL
Histology is the study of the tissues of the body and how these tissues are arranged to constitute organs. This course explores the relationship between structure and function at the cell, tissue and organ level through a combination of class discussion and observation of prepared slides. Attributes: YLIB
This course examines the structure and evolution of organs and organ systems of humans and other vertebrates, with special attention to gross functional anatomy and to morphological adaptations for aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Evolutionary relationships are stressed in order to give students a deeper appreciation for the evolutionary history behind modern human form. Typically offered:
This laboratory course examines the structure and evolution of organs and organ systems of humans and other vertebrates, with special attention to gross functional anatomy of mammals. Evolutionary relationships are stressed in order to give students a deeper appreciation for the evolutionary history behind modern human form. Typically offered:
Students will be introduced to the theoretical and practical aspects of the maintenance and preservation of mammalian cells in vitro. They will also explore and apply material science and engineering principles to problems in biology and medicine, like drug delivery, bioprinting, diagnostics, vaccine design and biosensing. Through a hands-on approach, the student will learn basic tissue culture skills including aseptic technique, maintenance of continuous cell lines, differential cell counting, flow cytometry, eukaryotic gene transfer and molecular technique Formerly titled: Cell and Organ Culture Attributes: YLIB
This course examines the acute and chronic effects of aerobic and anaerobic exercise on functions of the human body from the cellular to the whole body level. Structural and functional aspects of the skeletomuscular, cardiovascular, endocrine and respiratory systems as well as nutrition and bioenergetics are emphasized. Typically offered:
This course examines the acute and chronic effects of aerobic and anaerobic exercise on functions of the human body from the cellular to the whole body level. Structural and functional aspects of the skeletomuscular, cardiovascular, endocrine and respiratory systems as well as nutrition and bioenergetics are emphasized. Laboratory experiences will include standard aerobic and anaerobic fitness testing, health diagnostic tests, and exercise prescription development. Typically offered:
This course provides an in-depth exploration of infectious diseases, encompassing the biology and epidemiology of viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens, focusing on respiratory, diarrheal, blood-borne, and sexually transmitted diseases, vector-borne and zoonotic diseases of global and local importance. Students will learn key epidemiological and biostatistical methods used to analyze data and study disease transmission. The course will emphasize evidence-based strategies for preventing and controlling disease spread, with special consideration of how soc Attributes: YLIB
This course is designed to help students identify and explore different career opportunities and gain an understanding of the training requirements of specific careers. Particular emphasis will be placed upon preparing to apply for graduate and professional studies leading to careers in science and the health professions. Topics will include choosing a career, researching training programs, investigating the application process, financing advanced education, exploring entrance exams for professional schools, interviewing skills, creating résumés Typically offered:
Continuing to develop the skills acquired in the Introduction to Research course, this Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) course focuses on further exploring research feasibility, logistics, funding, collaboration, and communication with a focus on proposal development. This course will consist of multi-week projects that can vary per section, modeled on graduate programs in the field, with an expectation of mentoring and producing a culminating product based on independent work. Attributes: YLIB ZRES
In this course, students will develop an inquiry-based project by conducting in-depth research using discipline-specific practices that result in research and writing skills that are transferable. Students will build on the critical thinking and writing competencies they have previously acquired to engage topics and ideas in the field. Students will formulate important questions or problems, identify and examine appropriate sources, and use evidence in order to substantiate their own claims. They will acknowledge and address alternative explanations in schol Attributes: AWC YLIB 2025-2026 Catalog » Academic Programs » Undergraduate » School of Arts and Sciences » Biology
“Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution.” (T. Dobzhansky) This course explores evolution ,the central, unifying theme of the biological sciences, in some depth. Particular attention is paid to classical Darwinism and other ideas in the history of evolutionary thought, the genetics and ecology of populations, speciation, molecular evolution, and extinction theory. Typically offered: Fall - Odd Years Attributes: YLIB
The biodiversity, life histories, taxonomy, and behavior of vertebrate and invertebrate animals are studied in this course. We will cover aquatic and terrestrial organisms across a wide range of taxa. Consideration is given to their evolutionary history, biogeography, and life cycles. Typically offered: Fall - Even Years Attributes: YLIB
This course is an introduction to the exciting, fast moving field of virology. Students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of virus structure, genetics, the infectious cycle, replication strategies, pathogenesis and persistence along with the theories behind the origins of viruses and how they are evolving. There will be specific emphasis on virus infection of eukaryotic cells and molecular mechanisms of virus-host interactions. The relevance of virology to everyday life will also be discussed with topics on emerging viruses, vaccines, anti-vir Typically offered:
This course is an in-depth exploration of the various ways plants interact with microbes (fungi, oomycetes, bacteria, viruses, & nematodes) in the environment. Parasitic and mutualistic (symbiotic) interactions will be investigated at the macroscopic, cellular, and molecular levels. Coursework focuses on plant pathology and studies of the mutualistic relationships between plants and microbes. Disease prevention and management strategies as well as the economic, environmental, ecological, and societal impacts of agricultural practices will be discussed. Attributes: YLIB
(BIOL-213 D- AND BIOL-214 D- AND BIOL-214L D- OR BIOL-251 D-) AND BIOL-298 D-
BIOL 418Immunology3
This course explores the genetic and cellular basis of immunity, regulation of the immune system, and the effector mechanisms that provide protection or result in autoimmune disease. Typically offered:
This course provides an introduction to the field of pharmacology from a biological perspective. Topics of study include the history of drugs, drugs of abuse, drug design, routes of administration, and pharmacokinetics. Special attention will be given to examining how different diseases disrupt the normal physiology of particular organ systems and then identifying the mechanisms of action for a variety of therapeutic drugs. Attributes: YLIB
This course involves the study of hormonal principles and actions in vertebrates. Emphasis is on neuroendocrine relationships, feedback control systems, regulation of physiologic systems, and mechanisms of hormone action. This course includes lectures, group work, and the reading and interpretation/critique of scientific literature. Courses in Cell Biology and Physiology are highly recommended for the successful completion of Endocrinology. Attributes: YLIB
BIOL-127L D- AND BIOL-128C D- AND BIOL-311 D- AND BIOL-251 D-
BIOL 490Internship in Biology (1 TO 3)
Biology majors undertake an experimental learning project in an off-campus setting designed to complement the biology degree program. The intent is to blend the theoretical material from university coursework with the practical skills developed in the application of biology in the “work world.” Placements are coordinated with the Experiential Learning Coordinator and may involve work in the healthcare community, research community, for-profit sector, or other suitable service-learning opportunities. Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB
This course provides the opportunity for investigation of a special topic or project of interest to a student and a supervising biology faculty member. Students must contact the faculty member and request permission to register. Independent study may involve a literature search, writing a research proposal, and/or a lab/field study. This course cannot be used as a biology elective. Students must complete the Independent Study/Tutorial Authorization form and submit it to the Registrar’s office. Completion of the online Intent form for the Biology Department is also required. Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB
Students work with a faculty advisor to design and execute a research plan addressing a biological question. The results of the project are presented in the form of a written research report and/or a scientific poster that is presented at a scientific meeting. Students must contact the faculty member and request permission to register. Students are required to submit the online intent form for the Biology Department to be registered. Students must submit a project proposal and undergo safety training. See biology student research guidelines for additional de Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB ZRES
Students continue their work with a faculty advisor to expand upon a research plan or work with a new advisor on a new project addressing a timely biological question. Upon completion of the project, the results are presented in the form of a written research report and/or a scientific poster that is presented at a scientific meeting. Completion of a written project proposal with a Biology faculty member is required. Typically offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Attributes: YLIB ZRES
