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Saint Francis University · Courses

BIOL

55 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 101General Biology3

For non-science majors. Fundamental principles; historical background of the major biological concepts as well as the contemporary status of the discipline. Three lectures. May be used in partial fulfillment of graduation requirements in science. Fall, Spring, Summer.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 102Physical Anthropology3

(same as Anthropology 102) (3 credits) For non-science majors. The stages of human evolution; geological sequence, fossil records, and physical variations in living peoples. Two lectures and one laboratory or recitation session. May be used in partial fulfillment of graduation requirements in science. Spring.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 103Environmental Studies3

For non-science majors. Environmental studies is the interdisciplinary academic field that systematically studies human interaction with the environment in the interest of solving complex problems. It is a broad field of study that includes the natural environment, built environment, and the relationships between them. The field encompasses study in basic principles of ecology and environmental science, as well as associated subjects such as ethics, policy, politics, law, economics, philosophy, environmental sociology and environmental justice, planning, pollution control, and natural resource management. The course may be used in partial fulfillment of core curriculum requirements in science. Spring, or as needed.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 104Human Heredity3

For non-science majors. The fundamental principles of genetics; present and future possibilities of genetic research and medical science in such areas of biology as cloning, test tube babies, genetic engineering, research, and the social implications of these genetic studies. May be used in partial fulfillment of graduation requirements in science. Spring.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 105Human Biology3

For non-science majors. Biological principles are applied to practical understanding of body functions and the importance of exercise, nutrition, etc. Current human concerns such as AIDS, cardiovascular disease, and cancer are discussed and related to recent scientific evidence. May be used in partial fulfillment of graduation requirements in science. Fall, Spring.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 110Introduction to Biology: Evolution, Ecology, and Plant Biology4

Introduction to biological principles fundamental to understanding evolution, ecology, and the diversity of life. Topics include natural selection, speciation, and the history of life on earth; an introduction to ecological concepts at the individual, population, community and ecosystem levels; the classification, anatomy and physiology of plants; and an overview of the diversity of bacteria, protists, fungi, and animals. Lecture and Laboratory. Fall.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 111Introduction to Biology: Molecules, Cells, and Animal Physiology4

Introduction to biological principles fundamental to understanding molecular biology, cell biology and physiology. Topics include the biochemistry, structure, energetics and division of cells; the principles of heredity and molecular genetics; and the structure and function of major animal organ systems. Lecture and laboratory. Spring.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 131Biology First Year Seminar0

ZAAS131 (0 credits) This course will cover topics including, but not limited to: study skills, time management, campus and departmental resources, and discussion of a biology related book. Required of all biology majors. Fall.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
0
Credits (max)
0
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 150Aquarium Maintenance1

ZAAS 150 (1 credit) Learn and do all of the maintenance tasks required to care for a large, sophisticated aquarium system similar to that encountered at a public aquarium. Requires giving public presentations, including SCUBA diving in the tank using a communication system. Fall, Spring. This course can be taken multiple times with permission of the instructor.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
credit
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 154Special Topics in Biology1-4

Students pursue advanced study in a specialized area of biology. Course includes lectures, library research or laboratory research, and a paper pertaining to subject matter not covered in other courses. Taught at an introductory level without prerequisites. Special topics courses may be taken multiple times for credit provided that each course has a different topic. As needed.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 194First Year Biological Research1-3

Original experimental investigation in selected biological problems. Students will work with a research advisor to pursue a research project in an area of interest. The expectation is 3 hours of work per credit. Completion of the course requires that a written product summarizing the outcome (e.g. poster, manuscript, or other written report) be submitted to the faculty advisor. Taken by students of freshman class rank. Fall, Spring. Repeatable for credit.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 201Anatomy and Physiology I for UPMC Mercy Nursing4

An introduction to human anatomy and physiology. Topics include basic biochemistry, cell biology, tissues, and four organ systems: the integumentary system, the skeletal system, the muscular system, and the nervous system. The course will emphasize connections between form and function, and the interconnectedness of the organ systems. The online laboratory includes practical investigations of topics from lecture, making use of both online materials as well as an at-home laboratory kit. First in a two-semester sequence. Lecture and lab. Fall.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 202Anatomy and Physiology II for UPMC Mercy Nursing4
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 201 Anatomy and Physiology I for UPMC Mercy Nursing and Lab. Spring.
BIOL 203Ecology4
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 101 , or BIOL 111 lecture and lab, or consent of instructor. Fall
BIOL 204Invertebrate Zoology4
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 111 lecture and lab. As needed.
BIOL 205Human Anatomy and Physiology I4

Basic course in the study of the structure and function of the human body. The specialized structure and function of each organ system is studied at the cellular, tissue and organ level of organization, as well as homeostatic mechanisms. Integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion BIOL 111 lecture and lab. Fall.
BIOL 206Human Anatomy and Physiology II4

Continuation of study of major organ systems, including endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, digestive, regulation of metabolism, respiratory and excretory systems; reproduction and development; fluid electrolyte and acid-base balance. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of both BIOL 205 lecture and lab. Spring.
BIOL 208Animal Behavior4
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 110 lecture and lab, and BIOL 111 lecture and lab, or consent of instructor. Fall.
BIOL 211Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy4

Comparative anatomical study of adult vertebrates including man with some reference to functional implications; review of phylum Chordata, classification and evolutionary trends; brief introduction to embryonic development emphasizing significance of germ layers and tissues to an understanding of the comparative anatomy of the organ systems of chordates. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab. Fall.
BIOL 213Vertebrate Physiology4

A study of the life processes that allow for function. Emphasis on structure and functional relationships, energy consumption and use, information flow, and homeostatic mechanisms. Includes systemic coverage of endocrine, nervous, muscular, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, urinary, digestive, and reproductive systems. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion BIOL 111 lecture and lab. Spring.
BIOL 214Clinical Microbiology4

A study of the normal body flora and pathogenic micro-organisms; microbial physiology associated with pathogenicity of bacteria, viruses, fungi and common protozoal parasites; host responses to pathogenic invasion; diagnostic tests used for identification of pathogens; antimicrobial agents; principles of immunology. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab, and CHEM 113 or CHEM 121 Fall, Summer.
BIOL 218Marine Biology4

A study of the biological aspects of marine ecosystems along with physical relationships. Students will survey marine plants and animals and the relationships that exist between them and the chemical and physical features of the ocean. Studies of the various ecosystems which exist in the marine environment including intertidal zones, brackish water, coral reefs, open ocean, and the continental shelf will be used to further students’ understanding of these complex relationships. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 110 lecture and lab. Fall.
BIOL 220Conservation Biology3

An introduction to the field of conservation biology. The course will include an examination of the historical background and ethical principles underlying the science of conservation biology. Topics to be examined include: biodiversity, patterns and origins of biodiversity, causes and consequences of biodiversity loss, ecological concepts used in conservation management practices, and practical approaches to conserving biodiversity.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Required: Satisfactory completion of BIOL 110 lecture and lab, and BIOL 111 lecture and lab, or their equivalents. Recommended: Satisfactory completion of (or concurrent) BIOL 203 lecture and lab. Spring, as needed.
BIOL 223Oceanography3

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the ocean environment. Topics will cover the physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of the marine environment and a survey of important oceanic regions on Earth.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
None. PHYS 104 or PHYS 121 recommended. Spring
BIOL 231Biology Sophomore Seminar0

ZAAS 231 (0 credits) Preparation for careers in the Biological Sciences. This course will study career-relevant topics including, but not limited to: searching for and applying to internships; crafting resumes and cover letters; interviews; creating a 5-year plan; and exploring and applying to graduate and professional programs. Students will research career opportunities relevant to their interests, including job availability, required education, expected salary, and work-life balance. Required of all Biology majors and Aquarium & Zoo Science majors. Fall.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
0
Credits (max)
0
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 233Plant Ecology4

Specialized consideration of the plant kingdom, taxonomy, anatomy and physiology. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 110 lecture and lab. As needed.
BIOL 251Bioinformatics3
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 111 . As needed.
BIOL 254Special Topics in Biology1-4

Students pursue advanced study in a specialized area of biology. Course includes lectures, library research or laboratory research, and a paper pertaining to subject matter not covered in other courses. Taught at an introductory/intermediate level with possible prerequisites. Special topics courses may be taken multiple times for credit provided that each course has a different topic. As needed.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 294Sophomore Biological Research1-3

Original experimental investigation in selected biological problems. Students will work with a research advisor to pursue a research project in an area of interest. The expectation is 3 hours of work per week per credit. Completion of the course requires that a written product summarizing the outcome (e.g. poster, manuscript, or other written report) be submitted to the faculty advisor. Taken by students of sophomore class rank. Fall, Spring. Repeatable for credit.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 301Genetics4

A study of the principles of heredity; the structure and function of DNA; applications of recombinant DNA technology; and the action of genes in populations. Three lectures and one laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab. Spring.
BIOL 302General Microbiology4

Morphology, physiology, and ecology of the major groups of micro-organisms: bacteria, fungi, protozoa, slime-molds, algae, rickettsiae and viruses, principles of immunology. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab and CHEM 221 . Spring.
BIOL 305Immunology3

A study of the general principles of immunology. Both cellular and humoral immunology will be studied covering immune tissues and cells, antigens, antibody production, MHC, genetic basis of immunological structure, cellular interactions, and specific applications of immunology to modern medical science including immunological disorders and laboratory techniques.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab. Fall, as needed.
BIOL 306Animal Nutrition3

ZAAS 306 (3 credits) Animal Nutrition will discuss the classification and function of nutrients required in maintaining animal health, deficiency symptoms, digestive processes, composition of animal feed, and formulation of diets. Students will research and present findings on specific animals utilized in research and maintained in aquariums and zoos.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab and CHEM 114 lecture and lab or CHEM 122 lecture and lab Fall.
BIOL 311Coral Reef Ecology3
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
MS 101 , BIOL 218 . Spring semesters only.
BIOL 312Research Diver Methods3
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
MS 101 , MS 201 , MS 301 , MS 302 (or equivalent).
BIOL 315Biostatistics4
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 111 Lecture and Lab. As needed.
BIOL 317Developmental Biology4

A morphological and physiological study of the ontogenetic development of representative vertebrates including such topics as embryonic and postembryonic development, regeneration, metamorphosis and the relationship between inheritance and development. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab. As Needed.
BIOL 320Vertebrate Zoology4
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 111 lecture and lab. Spring, As Needed.
BIOL 322Field Biology3

An opportunity for completing ecological field studies in an area other than the region around Saint Francis University. Students will research the ecology of the field site, study the animals and plants present in the ecosystem and plan their travel before leaving on a 7-9 day research trip. Studies will be completed on site. Upon completion of the trip, students will write a research paper and formally present their findings. Course can be completed twice for credit when completed at different locations. Students will incur an additional expense to cover field costs.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 203 lecture and lab. Spring, Summer.
BIOL 326Freshwater Aquatic Biology4

A study of the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of streams, rivers, ponds and lakes. Emphasis on the role of water chemistry, pollution and biotic interactions on the distribution of aquatic life. Laboratory includes field sampling and identification of aquatic organisms. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 203 lecture and lab. Fall, as needed.
BIOL 345Environmental Animal Physiology4
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 111 Spring
BIOL 354Special Topics in Biology1-4

Students pursue advanced study in a specialized area of biology. Course includes lectures, library research or laboratory research, and a paper pertaining to subject matter not covered in other courses. Taught at an intermediate/advanced level with prerequisites. Special topics courses may be taken multiple times for credit provided that each course has a different topic. As needed.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 383Biology Research Methods Seminar2
Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 110 lecutre and lab, BIOL 111 lecture and lab, and BIOL 131 Spring, Fall.
BIOL 394Junior Biological Research1-3

Original experimental investigation in selected biological problems. Students will work with a research advisor to pursue a research project in an area of interest. The expectation is 3 hours of work per week per credit. Completion of the course requires that a written product summarizing the outcome (e.g. poster, manuscript, or other written report) be submitted to the faculty advisor. Taken by students of junior class rank. Fall, Spring. Repeatable for credit.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 398Biology Internship3-15

The integration of classroom theory with practical work experience under which students have specific periods of attendance at college and specific periods of employment, either full or part-time, with or without pay. Credit may vary from three to 15 credits, but no more than six credits may be counted toward major requirements, with additional credits counted as free electives. Open only to Biology majors with approval of the department chair and the chief academic officer. Fall, Spring, Summer. Fulfills Departmental Senior Capstone.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
15
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 399Biology Internship3-15

The integration of classroom theory with practical work experience under which students have specific periods of attendance at college and specific periods of employment, either full or part-time, with or without pay. Credit may vary from three to 15 credits, but no more than six credits may be counted toward major requirements, with additional credits counted as free electives. Open only to Biology majors with approval of the department chair and the chief academic officer. Fall, Spring, Summer. Fulfills Departmental Senior Capstone.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
15
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 401Cell and Molecular Biology4

A broad coverage of cell and molecular biology. Emphasizing experimental design and data analysis. Three lectures and one laboratory session. Library research, journal reviews and paper. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab. Spring.
BIOL 402Evolution3

Development of the theory of organic evolution of plants and animals through evidence obtained from fossil records, genetics, cytogenetics, ecology, biochemistry, comparative anatomy, comparative physiology and serology. Restricted to seniors. Spring.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 405Biochemistry4

(same as CHEM 405 and BCHM 405) (4 credits) Basic chemical processes of living organisms, from single cells to humans, emphasizing the use and production of energy and macromolecules; metabolic regulation; and structure-function relationships. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 111 lecture and lab, and CHEM 222 . Fall.
BIOL 407Biochemistry II3

(same as BCHM 407 and CHEM 407)

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
BIOL 405 . Spring.
BIOL 408Special Problems in Environmental Science and Seminar4

Examination of the recent literature dealing with pollution, endangered species, agricultural systems, demographic trends and effects of environmental disruptions on human health and well-being. One class period per week to be devoted to the presentation of student reports on their environmental activities.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 203 lecture and lab. Spring.
BIOL 430Advanced Laboratory Methods in Molecular Biology2

Techniques used in the manipulation of DNA; laboratory methods needed to transfer genes from one organism to another; additional methods with wide application in molecular biology. Lecture and laboratory.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
Prerequisite
Satisfactory completion of BIOL 301 lecture and lab, BIOL 302 lecture and lab, BIOL 401 lecture and lab. As needed.
BIOL 454Special Topics in Biology1-4

Students pursue advanced study in a specialized area of biology. Course includes lectures, library research or laboratory research, and a paper pertaining to subject matter not covered in other courses. Taught at an advanced level with prerequisites. Special topics courses may be taken multiple times for credit provided that each course has a different topic. As needed.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 487Independent Study in Biology1-8

As needed. Fulfills Departmental Senior Capstone.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
8
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu
BIOL 494Senior Biological Research1-3

Original experimental investigation in selected biological problems. Students will work with a research advisor to pursue a research project in an area of interest. The expectation is 3 hours of work per week per credit. Completion of the course requires that a written product summarizing the outcome (e.g. poster, manuscript, or other written report) be submitted to the faculty advisor. Taken by students of senior class rank. Fall, Spring. Repeatable for credit.

Subject
BIOL
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
Source
catalog.francis.edu

Source: Saint Francis University's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 59