71 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 100Basic Biology Credits: 33
Deals with the principles of biology. Topics include evolution and origins of life, cellular structure and physiology, growth and repair, reproduction and development, control, sources of food energy, inheritance, and human inter-relationship with the biological environment. Not open to biology majors. Three hours of lecture/week. Credit earned in this course is not applicable to credits required of the biology major.
Examines human impacts on the environment. Students will explore issues resulting from the expanding human population and our increasing consumption of resources, and will consider sustainable alternatives. Topics include: basic ecology, human population growth, biodiversity and conservation, climate change, resource use, and pollution. Three hours lecture/week. Credit earned in this course is not applicable to the credits required of the biology major.
Introductory course for non-biology majors which involves a study of the structure and function of the human organism. Major diseases and contemporary factors that adversely affect human existence are considered. Three hours lecture/week. Credit earned in this course is not applicable to credits required of the biology major.
BIOL 161Principles of Biology: Cell Structure and Function Credits: 44
Introductory course for majors that examines cell structure and function, genetics, population genetics, and evolution. Three hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 162Principles of Biology: Organismal Diversity Credits: 44
Introductory course for majors that examines the diversity of life, plant form and function, animal form and function, and ecology. Three hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
Comprehensive introduction to applications and methods of biotechnology. Topics include microbial, plant, animal, and marine biotechnology. Applications to medicine, forensics, and the environment will be examined. Required for Biotechnology concentration. One hour lecture/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C (may be taken concurrently) and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C (may be taken concurrently) and BIOL 260 (may be taken concurrently) and BIOL 220 (may be taken concurrently) and CHEM 121 (may be taken concurrently) and CHEM 122 (may be taken concurrently)
BIOL 205Marine Biology Credits: 33
Introduction to the marine environment. Includes the physical characteristics of marine ecosystems and the adaptations of organisms that live there. Only at WIMSC during summers. Two periods lecture and two periods lab/week.
Field/laboratory course designed for biology majors with secondary education certification with focus on identification and ecology of local plants and animals including the study of soil, hydrology, oceanography, and a survey of current assessment technologies like GIS. Two hours lecture and three hours lab/field/week. Requires one weekend field trip. (Students may not count both BIO208 and BIOL 210 towards major requirements).
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C Category: Natural World & Technology - N
BIOL 210Field Zoology Credits: 33
Introduction to principles and techniques of field zoological investigation. Field and laboratory studies provide opportunity to learn appropriate procedures for the collection, preservation, and identification of selected groups of local animals. Both lecture and laboratory present the theory and methodology of zoological systematics. Two hours lecture and three hours lab/week. Requires one weekend field trip. (Students may not count both BIOL 208 and BIO210 towards major requirements).
Deals with the structural characteristics, physiology, and genetics of bacteria as well as principles of immunology and host-parasite relationships. Viruses and fungi are also considered. Laboratory exercises provide experience in the aseptic technique, staining, and evaluating the responses of microorganisms to various environmental changes. Three hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and sophomore standing or with permission from the department
BIOL 230Botany Credits: 33
This course explores the amazing properties of plant life, emphasizing their role in the environment as well as practical implications for humans. Students will examine plant diversity and learn basic plant morphology, physiology, development, and reproduction as well as plant ecology and evolution. Labs and discussion of primary literature will emphasize topics covered during lectures.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C
BIOL 237Human Anatomy & Physiology I Credits: 44
A systematic study of the structure and function of the various systems of the human body. Topics included are: the cell, integument, skeletal, musculature, digestive, endocrine, and reproductive systems. Dissections of specimens are required in the laboratory portion of this course.
A systematic study of the structure and function of the various systems of the human body. Continuation of Human Anatomy and Physiology I. Topics included are: the nervous system, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, metabolism, urinary system, fluid and pH balance. Although laboratory exercises will be more experimental in nature than in Human A&P I, some dissection of specimens will be required in the laboratory portion of this course.
Examines the interactions between organisms and their environment and the relationship between ecological processes and patterns of distribution and abundance of organisms. Laboratory/field sessions emphasize ecological principles and techniques. Two hours lecture and three hours lab/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and Sophomore standing.
BIOL 245Marine Ecology Credits: 33
Deals with interactions of plants and animals in the unstable coastal environment. The barrier islands of the U.S. East Coast are emphasized. Only at WIMSC during summers.
Introductory course dealing with the principles of heredity and the nature of the gene. The role of genetics in development, behavior, medicine, agriculture, biodiversity and evolution will be addressed as well as the implications and ethical considerations of modern biotechnology. Laboratory work includes genetic analysis in Drosophila and other organisms, recombinant DNA technology, and bioinformatics. Three hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and sophomore standing or with permission from the department
BIOL 300Careers in the Health Professions Credits: 11
This seminar introduces students to the educational preparation, employment responsibilities, and opportunities for many of the health professional fields. Information presented by speakers (practicing health professionals) will assist students in making educated choices regarding careers in the health sciences. Strongly recommended for students in the Biology/Health Professions concentration. One hour/week
Phenomenon of parasitism as it is practiced by a variety of organisms. Broad coverage will include the phylogeny, morphology, classification, and life cycles primarily of parasites of medical and veterinary importance; host-parasite relationships; and ecology epidemiology of parasitic diseases. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and sophomore standing or with permission from the department
BIOL 320Marine Botany Credits: 33
Is an introduction to the plants of the marine fringe. Near-shore and aquatic plants, both attached and free floating, are discussed. Taught only at WIMSC during summers.
Considers the role of bacteria and fungi in the diseases of man with emphasis upon the differentiation and culture of microorganisms, types of diseases, immunology, modes of disease transmission, prophylactic, therapeutic and epidemiological aspects. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and sophomore standing or with permission from the department
BIOL 330Animal Behavior Credits: 33
Basic course emphasizing such topics as territoriality, social hierarchy, and communication. The laboratory is a most important part of this course with the opportunity to structure experiments, evaluate results, and report conclusions. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week. (Offered fall semester, even years.)
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C
BIOL 331Behavior of Marine Organisms Credits: 33
Examines intra- and interspecific behavior with emphasis on adaptive significance that accrues to marine species. Topics include conflict, reproduction, and communication. Only at WIMSC during summers.
Study of the function of the human organ systems and their role in maintaining homeostasis. Three hours lecture and two hours lab/week. (Recommended for pre-health professions and secondary education students. Students may not count both BIO350 and BIOL 351 towards major requirements.)
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C
BIOL 351Animal Physiology Credits: 44
Study of the function of organ systems of animals. Related anatomy is taught as needed. Two hours lecture and three hours lab/week. (Students may not count both BIO350 and BIO351 towards major requirements.)
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and Junior standing as Biology major or permission of instructor.
BIOL 362Invertebrate Zoology Credits: 33
Synopsis of the phylogeny, classification and important adaptive features of major and minor invertebrate phyla. Emphasis on taxonomy and a comparative study of the morphology, composition, and functioning of the animal organ systems or their operational equivalent, as they occurring a broad representation of invertebrate groups, to include patterns of development, reproductive strategies, and life history adaptations.
Introductory course in the structure of vertebrate animals. Laboratory work includes the comparative anatomical study of organ systems using representatives of the various protochordate and chordate classes. Emphasis on the physical evolution of the vertebrate classes using anatomical, embryological, and paleontological evidence. Two hours lecture and three hours lab/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C
BIOL 371Human Anatomy Credits: 44
Involves a comprehensive, detailed study of the development, growth and functional anatomy of the human body. Enrollment priority is given to students in pre-health professional programs that require human anatomy. Three hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C
BIOL 373Developmental Biology Credits: 33
Introductory course in developmental biology. Emphasis will be on the molecules and mechanisms that control gametogenesis and the process of development from a single fertilized egg to an adult organism. Topics that will be highlighted include the role of genetic regulation in development, comparison of genes and processes in different organisms, and the contribution developmental biology makes to our understanding of evolution. Three hours of lecture/week.
Designed to give a basic understanding of the formation, structure, and function of the blood elements. Both normal and abnormal cells are studied as well as the more common blood diseases. Laboratory periods are interspersed with lecture. Two hours lecture/lab/week.
BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and sophomore standing or with permission from the department
BIOL 375Histology Credits: 33
Involves the microscopic examination of vertebrate tissues from morphological and physiological perspectives. Reference made to organ embryogenesis to support understanding of organ form and function. Laboratory work involves extensive examination of microscope slides. Tissue preparation for histological examination is demonstrated. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and sophomore standing or with permission from the department
BIOL 385Cell Biology Credits: 33
Examines the structure and function of the cell. Topics include the molecular constituents of cells, information transfer, and the control of cell division. The structure, function, and biogenesis of the plasma membrane, internal membranes, nucleus, cytoskeleton, mitochondria, and chloroplasts will be addressed. Laboratory work is examination of cell structure and function by molecular and microscopic techniques. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
Provides opportunity to gain practical experience in chosen career area. [Please note that only 3 credits of internship may count as biology credits. Credits in excess of that number count as free electives in the General Education requirement.]
Provides opportunity to gain practical experience in chosen career area. [Please note that only 3 credits of internship may count as biology credits. Credits in excess of that number count as free electives in the General Education requirement.]
Opportunity to do research under the guidance of selected faculty members. Students should obtain approval of the research topic from the selected advisor before registering for this course. Available as a pass/fail grade only. [Please note that only 3 credits of research may count as biology credits. Credits in excess of that number count as free electives in the General Education requirement.]
Opportunity to do research under the guidance of selected faculty members. Students should register for this course only if they have credit for BIOL 397 . Students should obtain approval of the research topic from the selected advisor before registering for this course. [Please note that only 3 credits of research may count as biology credits. Credits in excess of that number count as free electives in the General Education requirement.]
BIOL 399Independent Study in Biology Credits: 1-41-4
Independent study affords students the opportunity to engage in independent study related to their major field, a supporting area, or specialized interest.
Surveys various areas of mammalian biology including mammalian characteristics, evolution, classification, zoogeography, adaptive radiation, reproduction, population dynamics, behavior, physiology, ecology, and economic importance. Laboratory material covers trapping, study of skin preparation, identification of North American mammals, examination of skeletal and external adaptations, plus field and laboratory techniques. Graduate students are required to complete an additional course project. Includes a weekend field trip. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 408Principles of Virology Credits: 33
Covers morphology, replication cycles, and genetics of important bacterial, plant, and animal viruses as well as the use of gene therapy. Special emphasis given to viral pathogens of humans including the pathophysiology, transmission, treatment, and prevention of viral diseases. Newly emerging viral diseases and their impact on society will also be discussed. Graduate students expected to submit a 5-10 page term paper on a virology-related topic approved by the instructor.
BIOL 260 and BIOL 385 (may be taken concurrently) Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 409Immunology Credits: 33
Introduction to immunology, including immunity, serology, immunochemistry, and immunobiology. Other topics include immunodeficiency diseases, tumor immunology, transplantation immunology, autoimmune diseases, and allergies. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements. Three (3) hours lecture/wk.
BIOL 260 and BIOL 385 (may be taken concurrently) Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 412Ichthyology Credits: 33
This course surveys the biology of fishes, emphasizing the evolution, systematics, ecology, and conservation of Pennsylvania species. Laboratory and field exercises will include fish sampling, species identification, population estimation, community characterization, and fisheries techniques such as aging fishes and estimating population structure and production. (2h lecture and 2h lab)
( BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 242 or Graduate standing. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 413Marine Ichthyology Credits: 33
Study of the internal and external structure of fishes, their systematic and ecological relationships, and their distribution in time and space. Only at WIMSC during summers.
16 credits of biology or Graduate standing. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 417Herpetology Credits: 33
Study of amphibians and reptiles including classification, evolution, functional morphology, ecology, and husbandry. Laboratory work includes anatomical study, identification, and field trips. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 418Molecular Biology Credits: 33
Examines structure and expression of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genes. Topics include experimental techniques used to clone, express, and analyze DNA sequences; chromosome and gene structure; mechanisms of DNA replication and repair; mechanisms of transcription and translation; the regulation of transcription; RNA processing and post-transcriptional regulation; gene regulation in development; and molecular mechanisms of mutagenesis and cancer. Includes discussion of current literature and use of on-line resources for analysis of DNA sequences. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements.
BIOL 260 Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 419Ornithology Credits: 33
Study of birds including their taxonomic relationships, anatomy, physiology, ecology and conservation. A major focus of the course is identification of avian species found in Pennsylvania and the eastern US, which will be accomplished via field trips and museum skin study. Laboratory instruction will include methods of avian capture, census techniques, museum skin preparation and field trips. Two Saturday field trips and one weekend field trip are required. Graduate students are required to complete an additional course project. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 425Biota of Florida Credits: 33
Seminar/field course deals with the biology of warm temperate and subtropical Florida including vegetation, fauna, geology, history, and economy. Offered spring semester of even-numbered years, it requires a plus and intensive 10-day field trip to parks, natural area, and refuges in Florida over spring break. Field trip costs for the student include food, transportation, entrance and camping fees. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements.
Requires junior standing. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 428Entomology Credits: 33
Taught in a lecture format with supporting laboratories and field trips, students in this course will study the anatomy, morphology, phylogeny, ecology, taxonomy, and development of arthropods, primarily insects. Emphasis will be placed on collecting techniques, identification, and preparation of specimens.
Introduction to evolutionary principles, their applications, and the appropriate literature. Major topics include the history of evolutionary concepts, the species and speciation processes, phylogenetic patterns and their reconstruction, classification, biogeography, extinction, and biological nomenclature. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements. Three hours lecture/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 161 with minimum grade of C and BIOL 260 Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 442Aquatic Ecology Credits: 33
Examines the ecology of inland aquatic habitats including streams, springs, lakes, wetlands and estuaries. Lectures explore the physical, chemical, and biological forces shaping aquatic systems, with an emphasis on the ecology and conservation of freshwater organisms and habitats. Field and laboratory work includes sampling techniques, characterization of aquatic habitats, and identification of aquatic organisms. Graduate students enrolled in this class will be required to complete additional course requirements. Two hours lecture and three hours lab/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C or Graduate standing. BIOL 242 and one year of chemistry strongly recommended. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 444Conservation Biology Credits: 33
Applies the principles of population ecology, population genetics, biogeography, animal behavior, and paleobiology to the maintenance of global diversity and natural systems. Research theory is applied to conservation policy and management decisions. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements. Two periods lecture and two periods lab/discussion per week. Includes midweek and weekend field trips.
BIOL 242 Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 448Field Botany and Plant Taxonomy Credits: 33
Deals with principles of classification and systematics of vascular plants, with emphasis on local plant communities. Field trips and laboratories develop skill in the use of technical and popular identification manuals. Library readings develop familiarity with principles and literature of plant systematics and ecology. Memorization of selected, local species required. Field trips include several local excursions plus a weekend trip to natural areas in Pennsylvania and the Delmarva Peninsula. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements. Two hours lecture and two hours lab/week.
BIOL 162 with minimum grade of C or BIOL 100 Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 450Endocrinology Credits: 33
Study of the glands of internal secretion and their biochemical and physiological role in development, growth, metabolism, homeostasis, and reproduction of animals. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements. Three hours lecture/week.
BIOL 350 or BIOL 351 Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
BIOL 461Techniques in Biotechnology Credits: 33
Provides hands-on experience with standard molecular biology and immunological techniques commonly used in industrial and academic laboratories. Methods include immunoblotting methods, ELISA, isolation and analysis of DNA and RNA, protein purification, and gene cloning techniques. Graduate students must complete additional course requirements. One hour lecture and four hours lab/week. (Offered spring semester).
This course will survey the ecology, evolution, and conservation of the invertebrate phyla, with a focus on freshwater invertebrates. This will be a practical course intended for anyone with an interest in aquatic ecology and environmental assessment. Lab will emphasize the collection and identification of Pennsylvania taxa and their use in bioassessment of freshwater habitats. Graduate students will complete additional course requirements.
BIOL 162 and BIOL 242 with a C or better Graduate Credit: May be taken for graduate credit
BIOL 475Natural History of Costa Rica Credits: 33
This course explores the biological richness, unique geological setting, and exceptional natural history of Costa Rica, an example of the tropical flora and fauna unparalleled in the world. This class reviews the natural of history of Costa Rica, including the cloud forest, central ridge mountains, the dry tropical forest, and marine tropical environments. Students will become familiar with the geography, geology, vegetation, and fauna of Costa Rica, as well as learning about the history, culture, and language (Spanish) of Costa Rica. This course includes at least 27 hours of lecture and 25 hours of lab during the course. The seminars consist of students’ oral presentations with outlines, visual aids, and written summaries. For this class, it is required to attend the 9-11 day field trip to Costa Rica.
Approval by instructor Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credits.
BIOL 483Wildlife and Fisheries Management Credits: 33
Applies biological and ecological concepts to the practical management of fisheries and wildlife populations. This course addresses the history and principles of conservation and resource management, key legislation, and current public policy issues related to fisheries and wildlife management. Lab includes sampling methods, case studies, use of population and harvest models, and field meetings with wildlife and fisheries professionals.
Overview of methods for investigating biological field problems. Students will learn to use a variety of techniques in field conditions. Collection, analyses, and interpretation of data will be emphasized. Methods applied in current professional literature will be discussed. Graduate students will be required to complete an independent project culminating in a written report.
Required senior capstone course. This one-hour seminar will include reading, discussion, and analysis of the primary literature in diverse areas of biology. The course will allow students from the various tracks within biology to share perspectives and apply their knowledge to the analysis and solution of real-world biological problems. Students will lead discussion, write a short paper, present their paper orally, and complete the departmental exit exam. Course topic will vary.
