State University of New York at New Paltz · Courses
BIO
86 courses with the subject BIO, 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.
BIO 111Introduction To Animal Life3
A survey of the animal phyla including the study of structure, metamorphosis, adaptations, and behavior. The development of the students' sensitivity and awareness of what can be learned from careful observations in natural field situations will be emphasized. Designed for non-science majors; does not count toward biology major.
Designed to introduce students to selected aspects of biology science. By augmenting their understanding of biological concepts, students develop a deeper appreciation of the natural biological phenomena they are in contact with on a daily basis. In addition, students gain the working background necessary to understand contemporary biological issues such as environmental quality (population, pollution, global climate change), the human genome project, genetic engineering, and discoveries in medicine. When individuals become more biologically literate, they are also better equipped to make informed decisions that directly and indirectly impact their own lives.
Introduction to the form and function of plants. The student should acquire an appreciation for plants as living organisms in a biological world, and their economic importance to human beings. Designed for non-science majors; does not count toward biology major.
Students will learn and apply basic principles of Mendelian inheritance and DNA manipulation. Students will also examine current genetic technology advances as applied to genetic diseases.
An investigation of global environmental change from a biological and ecological perspective with a primary focus on human ecology, the global carbon cycle, climate change, and environmental sustainability.
An introduction to modern evolutionary theory and its applications to a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, forensic medicine, conservation, population biology, social behavior, altruism, sex/mating strategies, religion, and many other aspects of human biology.
Students will explore how modern biotechnology impacts our everyday lives with a topical survey of applications that may include stem cells, biofuels, genetically modified organism (GMOs) and forensics. Students will also learn about the underlying biological principles and molecular techniques that are the basis of modern biotechnology.
A survey in several phases of human biology. Normal life processes will first be explored followed by the alteration and relationship of alterations to life styles. Subject matter will include human physiology, genetics, evolution and behavior. Designed for non-science majors; does not count toward biology major.
Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
12
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Repeatable
may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
An introduction to modern biology: molecular and cellular organization of living systems, energy transformations and metabolism, the principles of classical and molecular genetics, and the basic embryological changes during the development of an organism.
An introduction to modern biology: diversity of life forms, the process of evolution, and the interactions of organisms with their environment and with each other.
An introduction to modern biology: molecular and cellular organization of living systems, energy transformations and metabolism, the principles of classical and molecular genetics, and the basic embryological changes during the development of an organism. COURSE FEE.
An introduction to modern biology: diversity of life forms, the process of evolution, and the interactions of organisms with their environment and with each other. COURSE FEE.
Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
12
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Repeatable
may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
Diversity in the plant and animal kingdom; sound scientific methods of observation; interrelationships of organisms to each other and to their environment. Importance of the flora and fauna in our economic and cultural life and the need for conservation practices. Field trips are devoted to the study of several ecological units during fall. Identifications of the common plants and animals and the ability to interpret the signs, sounds, and behavior patterns or organisms. COURSE FEE.
Gross anatomy and functions of systems of representative vertebrates. Skeletal, muscular, circulatory, digestive, respiratory, excretory, reproductive, nerve, and endocrine systems. Dissection is required. COURSE FEE.
A study of the principles of heredity from classical experiments with Drosophila to current research in molecular genetics utilizing recombinant DNA and gene cloning methodologies. The organization, function, and behavior of the genetic material are discussed on the molecular, chromosomal and population levels.
A survey of evolutionary principles, hypotheses, and interactions, with particular emphasis on population-level thinking, phylogenetics, and mechanisms of evolution. Topics will include hypothesis testing, selection, drift, quantitative genetics, genomics, adaptation, speciation, costs and benefits of sex, and coevolution.
The biology and conservation of local wildlife using a case study approach. The identification, habitat requirements, and behavior of species along with past and current conservation challenges at four local sites. On field trip dates, we will visit the sites to gather data on wildlife abundance, diversity, or habitat.
A study of principles and concepts of ecology at the ecosystem, community, population, and organism levels of organization. Laboratory and fieldwork emphasize methods of acquiring, analyzing, and interpreting ecological data. COURSE FEE.
An introduction to computer programming in R to perform biological data analytics including reading/writing files, data manipulations, graphics, and statistical analyses. Additionally, a focus on improving scientific communication skills including reading, writing, and presentation.
A practical application of data collection and statistical methods for biologists and will include topics such as hypothesis testing, t-tests, analysis of variance, and regression. This course is recommended for students currently interested in or involved with research.
Morphological, biochemical, physiological, and genetic aspects of microbial growth, especially bacteria. Bacterial classification, growth control, and roles in environment and health also considered. Laboratory teaches essential techniques. COURSE FEE.
Background, theory and techniques of molecular biology with the analysis of published research. Class discussions, independent research, written and oral presentations required. COURSE FEE.
A detailed examination of the events that occur within living cells. Particular attention is paid to current experimental techniques and analysis of the recent literature. COURSE FEE.
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic viral structure and function as they relate to replication strategies, control, pathogenesis, the immune system and laboratory analysis methods. Emphasis will be placed on viruses that cause human disease.
Physiology is the study of how living organisms function. This course is designed to give students a basic understanding of physiological principles relating to cells, organs and organ systems and the integration of animals with their environment. Material presented in lecture and lab will use comparative animal models to demonstrate general physiological concepts. COURSE FEE.
Study of the chemistry of biologically significant compounds; enzymes and metabolic reactions involved in energy transformations. Architecture of Life Breadth Category.
Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
12
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Repeatable
may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
Third year students participate in patient care including performing patient interviews and some routine medical procedures, to the extent allowed by state law. Third year students visit the NYCOM campus in the fall for their final interview with the NYCOM admissions committee.
A survey of evolutionary theory, including population genetics, drift, adaptive mechanisms and application to modern biology. The historical development of the subject will illustrate the philosophy of science.
Fundamental concepts, principles, and mechanisms of animal development, including classical descriptive embryology and cellular and molecular mechanisms. Laboratory sessions focus on experimental manipulations of early invertebrate and vertebrate embryos and include student-designed research projects. COURSE FEE.
A survey of the science of animal behavior as understood through modern evolutionary theory including the behaviors of wild and domestic animals such as learning, communication, foraging, antipredator behavior, migration, mating, parental care, and sociality. The lab focusses on field trips to observe animal behavior in a variety of settings of animals both in the wild and in captivity, and on conducting research using the primary literature. COURSE FEE .
The physiological mechanisms underlying the ecological relationships of plants. Explores processes affecting plant growth, reproduction, survival, and biogeography in the context of global environmental change. Lab emphasizes local ecosystems and teaches modern instrumentation, techniques, and field skills. COURSE FEE. Capstone Level Environmental Biology Breadth Category. COURSE FEE.
An introduction to the biology of insects and closely related arthropods. Topics covered will include the evolutionary history, developmental biology, physiology, diversity, behavior, and ecology of insects. The laboratory will provide hands-on experience with insect identification, specimen preparation, and behavioral and physiological experimentation. COURSE FEE. Capstone Level Evolution & Diversity Breadth Category. COURSE FEE.
Students will learn the applied and theoretical concepts of freshwater biology. The class will have weekly laboratories and field trips aimed at the study of the biological, chemical, and physical properties of lakes and streams. Capstone Level Environmental Biology Breadth Category.
Students will examine aquatic ecosystems through field and laboratory experiences. The class will examine ecological concepts and take field trips that will help examine the biological, chemical, and physical properties of lakes and streams.
Seminar course where primary literature is used to explore several Nucleic Acid-based technologies (ribozymes/aptamers, RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9, etc.) Capstone Level Architecture of Life Breadth Category.
Students will learn about the biology of birds, including avian evolution, anatomy and physiology, ecology, behavior, and conservation. In the laboratory and on field trips, students will explore avian taxonomy, develop identification skills, and undertake ornithological research.
Discussion-based seminar course in which primary literature is used to explore the origins of life on earth, the deep evolutionary history of cells, and cellular diversity among living cells. Capstone Level Evolution & Diversity Breadth Category.
Discussion-based seminar course in which primary literature is used to explore the coevolutionary interactions between prokaryotic microbes and eukaryotic hosts, ranging from pathogenic to symbiotic associations. Capstone Level Architecture of Life Breadth Category.
The science of biodiversity, ecological concepts for understanding and protecting species and ecosystems, and perspectives, philosophies and laws that underlie conservation and enable its protection. Labs focus on quantitative analysis and field visits.
The application of molecular microbial ecology concepts to examine bacterial structure, genetics and metabolism. Activities will include bioinformatics and bacteriological laboratory work. Capstone Level Architecture of Life Breadth Category.
Individual laboratory and field research under the supervision of a faculty member, resulting in a written report, and an oral presentation to biology faculty and students.
Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
12
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Repeatable
may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
This course has the format of a research project. Students are taught how to use the transmission electron microscope (TEM) as a research tool in the bio-medical disciplines. Students learn first hand the procedures associated with biological sample preparation: embedding, sectioning, staining, examination in the TEM and printing of the final electron photomicrographs.
BIO 508Scanning Electron Microscopy Annual/Spring4
The principles of microscopy sciences with emphasis on the use and applications of the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The course examines the theoretical basis of biological scanning electron microscopy and provides a practical introduction to the operation of the SEM.
BIO 509Advanced Ornithology Alternate year/Spring4
Birds of the world, their taxonomy, anatomy, geographic distribution, ethology, and ecology; laboratory devoted to anatomical studies; methods of photographing birds, recording of bird songs, uses of telemetry, bird behavior, life history studies, identification of local species.
BIO 511Advanced Vertebrate Zoology Alternate year/Fall4
Morphology, physiology, geographical distribution, and evolution of vertebrates of the world. Field and laboratory work devoted to studying life cycles of selected species. Oral presentation and written research paper required.
Basic theory and techniques of molecular biology with the analysis of current molecular advances in diverse fields of study. Class discussions, independent literature research, written and oral presentations required.
BIO 517Molecular Biology Laboratory Alternate year/Fall3
Current molecular techniques and theory. Cloning, PCR, DNA preparation, RNA preparation, Southern blots, Northern blots and tissue culture techniques will be employed and analyzed within the context of the immune system. Project required.
An introduction to the ecology of wetland ecosystems. Structure and function of different types of wetlands will be compared. Alteration and protection will be examined as well as methods used to study them.
Major orders of insects with emphasis of life histories. Laboratory opportunity for individual studies of life histories and taxonomic studies of selected orders and families.
An overview of the major aspects of human biology, including physiology, genetics, reproduction, behavior and evolution. In depth coverage of recent advances in the understanding of human biology, including the application of modern technologies and methodologies, as well as evolutionary theory.
Theory and controversy in the study of animal communication. The various functions, mechanistic, adaptive and evolutionary approaches to communication, information theory, signal transmission, signal reception and human language will be explored. Examples of communication systems will be surveyed across a wide range of taxonomic groups. Examples of hypothesis testing and the analysis of signals will be the focus of class discussions.
An introduction to the basic principles of endocrinology followed by a study of the physiology and biological chemistry of endocrine tissue and their secretions.
Current status of human genetics, with emphasis on molecular aspects. Topics include pedigree analysis, gene mapping strategies, genome organization, chromosone abnormalities, mutations, genetic basis of cancer and the Human Genome Project.
The genetic, cellular, molecular, developmental and biochemical aspects of the immune system will be covered. These aspects are discussed in relation to the disease process and experimental analysis. Discussions of current research are included.
Emphasis is placed upon the mechanisms by which cells specialize during embryogenesis, wound healing, regeneration and transformation. Specific attention to the mechanisms of movement, shape acquisition, and biosynthesis as well as certain new ideas regarding their genetic control.
Focuses on the embryology and anatomy of human development. In addition the physiological changes in the pregnant woman are discussed with regard to the developing embryo and fetus.
Focuses on the conservation of biological diversity: Topics include value of bio-diversity, threats to bio-diversity, vulnerability of species to extinction, conservation of populations and species, and protection of bio-diversity at international, national and local levels.
Underlying principles and recombinant DNA methods employed to produce genetically modified organisms for agricultural, environmental, industrial, pharmaceutical and biomedical purposes are covered. Discussions on societal and ethical issues involving biotechnology are included.
Theory and application of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are covered. Laboratory includes all aspects of specimen preparation and use of SEM, x-ray diffraction analysis and TEM. This is an advanced course and requires that students have the ability to work individually, taking precautions with hazardous chemicals and delicate equipment.
Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
12
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Repeatable
may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.
Non-credit workshop for students who wish to devote the semester immediately following the completion of their coursework to prepare for the comprehensive exam.
