59 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 116INSECTS AND SOCIETY4
This combine lecture / laboratory course introduces students to the study of insects---the most numerous and diverse group of animals on Earth. Students will gain hands-on experience by preparing their own independent collection of preserved specimens from the Hollins campus. Additionally, case studies will be explored to learn how insects have altered human society in profound ways.
In this combined lecture/laboratory course, we will explore the ways in which water is essential to life on Earth, its origins on our planet, how water affects weather and climate, the function of freshwater and marine ecosystems, and the organisms that live within them. We will also study the history and methods of water usage and treatment, the impacts of human activity on the availability of safe drinking water, and the ongoing and impending global effects of climate change. Students will gain hands-on experience in techniques used to assess water quality and biodiversity of freshwater streams and visit regional water treatment facilities. Not intended for students majoring in biology or environmental sciences. Open to first-year students. Also listed and described as ES 122. No prerequisite. (SCI, TLAS) Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 136
This lecture/laboratory course explores the basic principles and functions of the human body (such as digesting a meal, taking a breath, or fighting an infection) and puts them in the context of total body function. The aims of this course are to provide students with hands-on experience gathering physiological data, as well as with a basic knowledge of human health, which will provide them with a foundation from which they can ask informed questions of a physician about their own health and/or the health of their family members. Not intended for students majoring in biology. Open to first-year students. No prerequisite. (SCI, TLAS)
In this combined lecture/laboratory course, we explore the science behind such issues as human cloning, genetic testing, gene therapy, forensic DNA evidence, and genetically modified foods. Students gain an understanding of how the Human Genome Project may impact their lives and get a hands-on introduction to the laboratory analyses used in these studies. Not intended for students majoring in biology. Open to first-year students. No prerequisite. (SCI)
In this combined lecture/laboratory course, horses are a wonderful study organism from which we can learn about many biological principles. In this course we will learn about and work with horses in order to better understand biological topics like evolution, nutrition, genetics, behavior, anatomy, physiology, and conservation. In addition to lecture, discussion, and in- class activities, students will also have the opportunity to work first-hand with horses as well as a variety of different equine professionals (veterinarians, equine nutritionists, etc.). No horse experience is required to take this course. Open to first-year students. No prerequisite. Spring (even years) (SCI, TLAS)
Spring in the temperate zone is characterized by an explosion of biological activity, songs of migratory birds fill the air, tree buds break open, and long dormant roots send up a symphony of flowers. In this project-based class we will document spring –exploring the adaptations that biological organisms have to the remarkable physical changes driven by the northern hemispheres annual spring tilt towards the sun. We will also consider how the impacts that human driven climate change has altered the timing of spring and the impacts that may have on organisms in our ecosystem. The flipped course format will give students the chance to acquire a basic understanding the biology of spring from recorded lectures and reading material outside of class and allow our shared class-time to focus on application and reinforcement of this material as well as ample time for our field research projects on campus Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 137
This required two-credit course for biology majors is structured to allow you to reflect on how your liberal arts degree, as well as your work in your biology major, will prepare you for career options and life upon graduation. Specific topics we will explore include careers in biology, the role of internships, the graduate and professional school application process, résumé and CV writing, financial management, wellness, and communication. Sophomore or higher standing. For declared Biology majors only. Every spring.
As one of the core courses for the biology major, students explore the structure and function of the natural world. We examine the relationships between organisms and their physical and biological environment, global patterns of climate and biological life, patterns in population dynamics, as well as structure and change in communities of organisms. Also listed and described as ES 207. Open to first-year students. No prerequisite. Every fall. (SCI, TLAS: must take lab to fulfill SCI or TLAS)
Students explore local aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems as well as gain hands-on experience carrying out ecological research in this field laboratory course. Students will also have several opportunities to carry out their own independent research. Also listed and described as ES 207L. Corequisite: BIOL 207. Every fall. (SCI, TLAS)
Have you ever wondered what the names of the birds are that frequent your backyard bird feeder? Do you wish you could identify bird songs? Are you curious about the biology and natural history of birds? In this field-oriented course, students will develop skills enabling them to identify, by both sight and sound, birds common to southwestern Virginia. We will explore a variety of habitats and observe the morphology and behavior of birds in their natural environments during several key points in their annual cycle (over-wintering, migration, and breeding). Not intended for students majoring in ES. Open to first-year students. Also listed and described as ES 209. No prerequisite. Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 138
BIOL 212INTRODUCTION TO GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GIS)2
This course will explore basic concepts of geographic information systems (GIS), including applications of GIS and how to use it. Much of this course will be lab-based using real-world and simulated scenarios and data sets. Students will gain basic working knowledge of how to use ArcGIS, the most commonly used GIS software on the market, and gain limited experience with one or more additional GIS platforms. Although content and exercises will be primarily targeted to biology and environmental studies majors, skills learned will be applicable to many other fields and thus, non-science majors are welcome. Also listed and described as ES 212. No pre-requisites. Not open to first-year students. Every spring.
As one of the three core courses for the biology major, students explore physiological mechanisms of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, and whole- organism levels, with emphasis on the way in which the human body responds to various external and internal stimuli to maintain homeostasis. Open to first-year students. Prerequisite: CHEM 101 or CHEM 105 or permission. Every spring. (SCI: must take lab to fulfill SCI)
In this inquiry-based laboratory course, we explore many of the tools and techniques used in the study of physiological mechanisms. Students will employ hypothesis testing to explore these mechanisms and learn the essentials of scientific research and writing.
The diversity and complexity of different cell types found in multicellular organisms is extensive, yet all eukaryotic cells have the same basic molecular components. As one of the three core courses for the biology major, this course provides an overview of cell structure, biological macromolecules, cellular reproduction, and gene structure and function.
CHEM 102 or CHEM 105, BIOL 220, or permission. Every fall. (SCI: must take lab to fulfill SCI)
BIOL 236LLABORATORY FOR MOLECULAR AND CELL BIOLOGY2
This project-oriented laboratory provides students with the opportunity to analyze and characterize DNA and other cellular molecules. The course is designed to give students experience with an array of molecular biological techniques. In addition, students are exposed to elements of research and experimental design in a directed framework. Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 139
BIOL 240ONE HEALTH: LINKING HUMAN, ANIMAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH4
One Health is a world-wide movement which focuses on the intersectionality of human, animal, and environmental health and how interdisciplinary efforts can be made to better study and solve these problems. This seminar-based course will take a case study approach to explore concepts and approaches integral to One Health. Key diseases and issues related to human, animal, and environmental health for which this approach could or have been utilized will be explored along with its associated peer-reviewed literature. This course is specifically targeted towards pre-health, pre-vet, and public health students, along with students interested in field biology and environmental science. Also listed and described as ES/PH 240. Pre-requisites: BIOL/ES 207/207L, PH201, or permission. Spring (odd years).
Microbial ecology is the study of microbes in the environment and their interactions with the environment, each other, and plant and animal species. The discipline is at the heart of the function of every ecosystem on the planet, from the lithosphere to the cryosphere, the human body, and the built environment. This course will survey the microbial diversity within the biosphere and delve into the complex interactions between microbial communities and the worlds they inhabit. Also listed and described as ES 253 and PH 253. ES 207/207L, or permission; For PH Majors, PH 101 and PH 201, or permission. BIOL majors cannot receive credit for BIOL 253/253L and BIOL 312/312L. Fall (odd years) (SCI: must take lab to fulfill SCI)
For BIOL Majors, BIOL 207/207L and BIOL 220/220L, or permission; ES Majors, ES 105 and
BIOL 253LMICROBIAL ECOLOGY LAB4
This lab will use culture-dependent and independent techniques and common biogeochemical assays to survey the microbial ecology of a variety of environments. Also listed and described as ES 253L and PH 253L. Co-requisite: BIOL, ES 253, or PH 253. Fall (odd years). (SCI)
In this course, students have the opportunity to investigate the structure of the human body through exploration of texts, case studies, models, and dissections. Students will be evaluated for their understanding of each anatomical system through written tests, quizzes, case studies, projects, and laboratory practicals. Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 140
In this course we will delve into the ecology and biodiversity of two ecosystems of Ecuador: the Amazon rainforest and the high Andean paramo. We will familiarize ourselves with some of the rich biodiversity, explore ecological relationships, and come to understand some of the environmental concerns that threaten this region. In addition, we will explore how science and indigenous knowledge can provide a platform for deepening our understanding of the natural world and for generating positive change. This course is open only to students that have been accepted into the upcoming January term travel/research trip. Also listed and described as ES 250. Every fall.
Tutorials based on standard primary and secondary sources, which may contain an experiential component. These studies, below the advanced level, must be planned and approved in consultation with a member of the department prior to registration. Maximum of 8 credits permissible.
This course explores the structure and function of neurons, the basic functional unit of the nervous system. Topics will include the subcellular organization of neurons, the electrical properties of cells, and the mechanisms of neuronal communication and synaptic transmission. Students will investigate how disruptions to normal cellular processes produce various human diseases and health-related disorders.
Life has existed on Earth for ca. 3.5 billion years, roughly 75% of our planet’s history. Microorganisms were the first creatures to inhabit Earth and remain a dominant form of life on Earth today. Microbiology is the study of microorganisms and the effect that microbes have on our planet and all of the living things that call it home. This course will provide an introductory survey the field of microbiology, focusing largely on bacteria and archaea, but also covering eukaryotic microorganisms and viruses.
BIOL 220 and BIOL 236; CHEM 102 or CHEM 105. Spring (odd years).
BIOL 312LLABORATORY FOR MICROBIOLOGY2
The laboratory in microbiology is an introduction to pure culture work, including the basics of sterile technique, staining and microscopy, and metabolic assays. Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 141
Invertebrates, members of the animal kingdom lacking a backbone, comprise 95 percent of the animals on Earth today. In this course, students explore the anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and taxonomy of this incredibly diverse group of animals. Also listed and described as ES 313. Prerequisite: BIOL/ES 207 or BIOL 220. Fall (even years)
This laboratory provides students with the opportunity to explore the anatomy of invertebrate organisms, the environments in which they live, and the techniques used to classify them. Exercises will be conducted in both the laboratory and the field. Beyond the designated laboratory meeting times, students will be expected to participate in a weekend field trip (Thursday-Sunday) to the Virginia Institute of Marine Science Eastern Shore Laboratory in late September or early October. In addition, students will be expected to participate in 1-2 other day or evening excursions to study invertebrates. Course fee required. See Tuition and Fees for course fee. Also listed and described as ES 313L. Corequisite: BIOL/ES 313. Fall (even years).
Just four nucleotides, arranged in different orders, provide all the diversity of life. Alterations to this order can have impacts on fundamental areas in Biology, from evolution to human diseases, and even in applied fields such as biotechnology. This course will explore topics including mechanisms of inheritance, linkage and meiotic mapping, sex determination, genetic variations, and DNA sequencing.
In this laboratory students gain practical experience in the techniques of both classical geneticists and molecular biologists. Laboratory investigations include breeding experiments with model organisms, as well as molecular genetic experiments using recombinant DNA methodology.
Why are there no flying elephants? In this course we will compare the design and structure of vertebrate animals in relationship to the environments in which they evolve. We will emphasize Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 142
This lecture/lab course will provide a general understanding of disease ecology and examine both common and newly emerging diseases that are known to impact wildlife. We will also work to better understand the roles these diseases play in population regulation, conservation of rare and endangered species, and the impacts that these diseases can have on human and domestic animal health. Lab components of the course will involve both field and laboratory- based experiences involved in routine testing of wildlife and/or vectors for pathogens. Also listed as ES/PH 316. Pre-requisites: BIO/ES 207/207L and BIOL 236/236L; or PH 201; or permission. Consult with the catalog or your advisor to determine whether this course can count as a 300-level laboratory course toward the biology major. Fall (odd years) (SCI, TLAS)
Relationships between behavior and underlying physiological mechanisms are examined. Basic anatomy of the nervous system, characteristics of sensory systems, neuro- and endocrine- interactions, and neural developmental processes are discussed. Also listed and described as BIOL 317. Also listed and described as PSY 317. Prerequisites: PSY 141 (or permission) and BIOL 220. This course will not count as a 300-level laboratory course toward the major. Fall (even years).
Development from the fertilized egg to a complete adult organism requires a precisely coordinated series of events involving molecular, cellular, and organismal mechanisms. This course provides an integrative survey of animal development, with a focus on those unifying mechanisms that are common to all developing embryos.
This laboratory is designed to give the student hands-on experience in experimental embryology. The first part of the course is devoted to techniques for handling, culturing, and Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 143
Analyses of animal behavior incorporating ethological, ecological, and evolutionary perspectives. This interdisciplinary course covers the development, underlying mechanisms, adaptive value, and evolution of behavior and gives students ample opportunity to explore recent primary literature in the field. Also listed and described as PSY 323. Prerequisite: BIOL/ES 207 or BIOL 220. Spring (odd years).
Students will explore research in animal behavior by carrying out observational (in-person and video) and experimental laboratory and field research projects. The lab culminates in independent group research projects. Also listed and described as PSY 323L.
In this lecture/lab course, we will use vertebrates as our focus as we explore issues of evolution, ecology, physiology, behavior, and conservation, as well as develop skills associated with studying vertebrates in the field. Beyond the scheduled classes, students are required to participate in a 3-day weekend field trip to the Eastern Shore of Virginia to study avian biodiversity as well as several evening excursions to examine patterns of amphibian biodiversity. Course fee required. Prerequisite: BIOL/ES 207 or permission from instructor. Consult with the catalog or your advisor to determine whether this course can count as a 300-level laboratory course toward your biology major. Also listed and described as ES 328. Spring (even years).
This seminar-style course is intended to provide an in-depth analysis of the cell and molecular biology of the human immune system, focusing on the innate and adaptive responses to infection. Advances in studies of immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, the allergic response, transplant rejection, and cancer are also covered. Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 144
BIOL 220 and BIOL 236 and CHEM 101 or CHEM 105. Spring (even years).
BIOL 337ORNITHOLOGY4
With more than 10,000 recognized species, the taxonomic class Aves is one of the most diverse groups of animals on earth. In this lecture course, students will explore the anatomy, physiology, behavior, taxonomy, evolution, and life history of birds. Prerequisite: BIOL/ES 207 or permission from instructor. Also listed and described as ES 337. Prerequisite: BIOL/ES 207 or permission. Spring (even years).
Students in this field laboratory course will explore the life history of birds, observe them in their natural environments, and learn to identify them by sight and sound. Students will be expected to participate in a weekend field trip to the North Carolina coast and in several other morning/evening activities. Course fee required. See Tuition and Fees rate table for course fee. Corequisite: BIOL 337. Also listed and described as ES 337. Prerequisite: BIOL/ES 207 or permission. Spring (even years).
In this course, students will gain a foundational comprehension of the structure, function, and diversity of plants, and will be challenged to build an integrated understanding of plants, from an awareness of their cellular and molecular biology to their roles in an ecosystem. We will then tap into this knowledge to engage in active learning experiences to recognize and appreciate practical applications of plant biology, including conservation and the important connections of plants to society. Also listed and described as ES 341. Prerequisite: BIOL 207/207L. Fall (odd years).
Laboratory sessions will provide hands-on experiences in laboratory and field settings. A significant portion of the lab will be field based, with time being spent learning to identify native and common invasive plants, with particular focus on woody species. Students will also conduct a multi-week research project and present their findings. Also listed and described as ES 341L. Co-requisite: BIOL 341. Fall (odd years).
The chemical nature of biological molecules and the relationship between their structures and function; the function of carbohydrates, nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids in living systems. Introduction to metabolism. Also listed and described as CHEM 351. Prerequisites: CHEM 222 and CHEM 222L; or the equivalent. Every fall. Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 145
Experimental techniques used in biochemistry: potentiometry, centrifugation, chromatography, electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, isolation, purification, and characterization of proteins and nucleic acids, enzymology. Also listed and described as CHEM 351L. Corequisite: BIOL 351. Every fall.
Topics such as enzyme kinetics, structure-function relationships in biological molecules, bioinorganic chemistry, and the physical chemistry of biological systems will be discussed. Also listed and described as CHEM 352. Prerequisite: BIOL 351. Every spring.
In this course, students will apply active learning strategies to build a conceptual foundation for conservation biology, including conservation values and ethics. Building on this foundation, we will explore the primary threats to biological conservation, including habitat degradation, overexploitation, invasive species, and biological impacts of climate change. We will also explore how to apply this knowledge through learning about and utilizing various professional approaches used to solve conservation problems. Students will also be expected to participate in a required weekend field trip to Front Royal Virginia & Washington D.C. to explore conservation biology research and efforts occurring at the Smithsonian and the U.S. Botanic Garden. Course fee required. See Tuition and Fees rate table for course fee. Also listed and described as ES 357. Prerequisites: BIOL/ES 207 and 207L or permission. Spring (odd years).
Laboratory activities will cultivate an understanding of real-world, hands-on conservation biology through completing various field- and computer-based activities. Several multi-week research projects will occur to help develop skills in experimental design, technical skill sets, and data analysis. As a whole, students will learn a variety of field techniques and quantitative methods commonly used in the management and conservation of biodiversity. Also listed and described as ES 357. Corequisite: BIOL 357. Spring (odd years).
NASA aims to send humans to Mars by the 2030s, but conditions of the cosmos are profoundly different than the environments of Earth. This course explores the characteristics of natural laws that constrain biological systems, investigates data from the ISS about how spaceflight Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 146
BIOL 364BIOGEOCHEMISTRY: AN ANALYSIS OF GLOBAL CHANGE4
Much like the human body, the Earth’s climate and ecological systems have been finely tuned to maintain homeostasis. In the human body, this occurs via feedback loops and exchange between major organ systems. In the Earth’s climate and ecological systems, this balance is maintained by the flow of energy and materials. Biogeochemistry is the study of the flow of energy and materials within the biosphere. In this course, we will cover processes that control the cycling of C, N, and P, and other elements in terrestrial and aquatic systems, with special emphasis placed on the coupling between human and natural systems. Topics include the origin of Earth and the development of elemental cycles, the Earth as a physical and chemical system, the biogeochemical cycling of elements in the atmosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere, the global cycles of H2O, C, N and P, and the expanding human footprint on biogeochemical processes. Also listed and described as ES 364.
CHEM 101/102 or CHEM 105, BIOL 207 or ES 105. Fall (even years).
BIOL 364LBIOGEOCHEMISTRY LABORATORY2
The biogeochemistry laboratory will introduce students to common analytical techniques used to assess the biogeochemical transformation of nutrients in the environment. Also listed and described as ES 364L. Co-requisite: BIOL 364. Fall (even years).
Much like the human body, the Earth’s climate and ecological systems have been finely tuned to maintain homeostasis. In the human body, this occurs via feedback loops and exchange between major organ systems. In the Earth’s climate and ecological systems, this balance is maintained by the flow of matter and energy. Biogeochemistry is the study of the flow of matter and energy within the biosphere. In this lecture/lab course, we will cover processes that control the cycling of C, N, and P, and other elements in terrestrial and aquatic systems, with special emphasis placed on the coupling between human and natural systems. Topics include the origin of Earth and the development of elemental cycles, the Earth as a physical and chemical system, the biogeochemical cycling of elements in the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, the global cycles of H2O, C, N and P, and the expanding human Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 147
This course is intended for students conducting independent scientific research. At the beginning of the semester in which the student enrolls in this course, a proposal for the research project will be developed in consultation with the faculty supervisor. The project must involve laboratory and/or field research with significant data collection and analysis. The student will be expected to produce a formal scientific report at the conclusion of the project, which should include a review of the scientific literature relevant to the study. Registration for this course must occur before the semester in which the research is to be conducted. the second semester of the senior year without prior departmental approval. This course will count as a 300-level laboratory course toward the major. (ELR)
two of the three biology core courses (BIOL 207, BIOL 220, or BIOL 236). May not be taken in
BIOL 397HEALTHCARE-RELATED INTERNSHIP (2 OR 4)
Students will complete a healthcare-related internship. Experience that would qualify would include but not be limited to shadowing or clinical experience in any healthcare setting (e.g. medical, dental, physical or occupational therapy, etc.). Students are required to intern for 140 hours (for 4-credits) or 70 hours (for 2-credits). Students should consult with the Biology Program Director or Pre-Health Advisor if it is unclear whether a particular internship would qualify. A Biology faculty sponsor should be secured prior to registering for the internship. Can be completed any semester. (ELR)
Students will complete a veterinary-related internship. Experience that would qualify would include but not be limited to shadowing a veterinarian or animal care and husbandry work (e.g. interning at a zoo, wildlife rehabilitation center, animal shelter, etc.). Students are required to intern for 140 hours (for 4-credits) or 70 hours (for 2-credits). Students should consult with the Biology Program Director if it is unclear whether a particular internship would qualify. A Biology faculty sponsor should be secured prior to registering for the internship. Can be completed any semester. (ELR) Hollins University 2026–27 Undergraduate Catalog Page 148
Students will complete a biology-related internship. Students are required to intern for 140 hours (for 4-credits) or 70 hours (for 2-credits). Students should consult with the Biology Program Director if it is unclear whether a particular internship would qualify. A Biology faculty sponsor should be secured prior to registering for the internship. Can be completed any semester. (ELR)
All biology majors are required to take this course during the fall term of their senior year. Students in this capstone course will draw upon course content from their major to explore common readings and present on a relevant topic of interest. In addition, each student will prepare a portfolio summarizing their academic experiences (to include a curriculum vitae or résumé, and cover letter, as well as summaries of coursework and skills attained, internships, and abroad experiences). For declared Biology majors only. Every fall.
Students are expected to carry out a year-long research project (includes Short Term). The research project will be summarized in a paper of publication quality. If a student’s status and thesis meet the requirements for honors, then BIOL 480 will be converted to BIOL 490. One semester of this course will count as an upper-level laboratory course toward the major. Application must be made with faculty prior to registration. (ELR)
Students should not register for BIOL 490. Research is initially conducted as BIOL 480: Senior Thesis. Honors status will be determined in the spring pending successful defense. (ELR)
