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Biology Core | Biology Minor | Biology Major | Biology Major for Secondary Teachers

Teacher Certification Requirements


Biology Courses

BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics
BIO 122 Introduction to Evolution, Ecology and Botany
BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology and Physiology
BIO 202 Organic Evolution

BIO 208 Ornithology
BIO 211 Anatomy and Physiology I
BIO 215 Medical Terminology
BIO 252 Environmental Science
BIO 301 Genetics
BIO 306 Immunology
BIO 307 General Botany
BIO 311 Anatomy and Physiology II
BIO 325 Zoology
BIO 330 Diversity of Terrestrial Arthropods
BIO 335 Diversity of Aquatic Macroinvertebrates
BIO 354 Environmental Problem Solving
BIO 364 Biochemistry
BIO 364L Biochemistry Laboratory
BIO 373 Microbiology
BIO 389 Research Seminar
BIO 399 Special Topics
BIO 401 General Ecology
BIO 418 Cellular and Molecular Biology
BIO 459 Biology Internship
BIO 479 Special Projects
BIO 489 Readings in Biology and Environmental Studies
BIO 499 Research in Biology and Environmental Studies

The Biology program is designed for students interested in careers requiring a background in the biological sciences including secondary school teaching, medical school or other health professions, veterinary medicine or advanced training in graduate school. The program can also be used by students pursuing careers in laboratory technology, industrial biology, government service or scientific sales. In order to assure the best opportunities for advanced work and job placement, the biology major should have a broad scientific background including supporting courses in chemistry, mathematics, physics and related non-science areas. There are no special requirements for admission to the Biology program.

Biology Core (22 credits)
BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics - 4 credits
BIO 122 Introduction to Evolution, Ecology and Botany - 4 credits
BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology and Physiology - 4 credits
BIO 389 Research Seminar - 1 credit
BIO 499 Research in Biology/Environmental Studies - 1 credit
CHM 151 General Chemistry I - 3 credits
CHM 151L General Chemistry I Laboratory - 1 credit
CHM 152 General Chemistry II - 3 credits
CHM 152L General Chemistry II Laboratory - 1 credit

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Biology Minor (20 credits)
BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics - 4 credits
BIO 122 Introduction to Evolution, Ecology and Botany - 4 credits
BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology and Physiology- 4 credits
Additional Biology electives - 8 credits (at least 4 credits from courses 300 level or above)

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Biology Major (38 credits)
Biology Core - 22 credits
Additional Biology electives - 16 credits
Additional courses in chemistry, mathematics (calculus and statistics) and physics are strongly recommended, especially for those planning to get advanced degrees.

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Biology Major for Secondary Teachers (48 credits in biology and 36 credits in education)
Biology Core - 22 credits
BIO 202 Organic Evolution - 3 credits
BIO 211 Anatomy and Physiology I - 4 credits
BIO 252 Environmental Science - 3 credits
BIO 307 General Botany - 4 credits
BIO 311 Anatomy and Physiology II - 4 credits
BIO 373 Microbiology - 4 credits
PHY 201 College Physics I - 4 credits

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Teacher Certification Requirements (36 credits)
(see “General Education Requirements” under Education Major)
EDU 121 Introduction to Education - 3 credits
EDU 210 Teacher Assistant I - 1 credit
EDU 211 Teacher Assistant II - 1 credit
EDU 219 Applied Adolescent Development - 3 credits
EDU 226 Cultural Diversity/Human Relations - 3 credits
EDU 351 Reading & Writing in the Content Areas - 2 credits
SPE 230 Introduction to Exceptional Children - 3 credits
EDU 409 Professional Seminar - 4 credits
EDU 433 Methods of Teaching Science - 2 credits
EDU 415 Supervised Teaching - 14 credits

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Biology Courses

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BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics 4 credits
A general introduction to the study of biology. Topics include: the structural organization and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cellular growth and division, cellular respiration, transmission genetics, DNA and chromosomes, molecular genetics, populations genetics, and genetic technology. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. A student may not receive credit for NAT 111 Life Science once credit has been received for BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics.

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BIO 122 Introduction to Evolution, Ecology and Botany 4 credits
A study of the basic biological principles concerning evolution, ecology and botany. Emphasis is placed on the origin and evolution of life, plant structure and function including photosynthesis, the diversity of the plant kingdom, and the relationships of organisms to their environment and to one another. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Prerequisite: BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics.

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BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology and Physiology 4 credits
A continuation of the study of the basic biological principles. This course will be concerned with the microbiological and animal diversity. The course will also survey the organ-systems of the mammalian organism, including an in-depth investigation of animal reproduction. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Prerequisite: BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics.

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BIO 202 Organic Evolution 3 credits
A study of the nature of biological evolution, the basic mechanisms involved in evolution, and the possible future direction of evolution. An attempt is made to relate the significance of the process to human experience, thought, and affairs.
Prerequisite: Completion of the math competency requirement. Offered Spring 2007 and alternate years.

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BIO 208 Ornithology 3 credits
A study of the evolution, ecology, behavior, anatomy, and reproduction of birds. Special emphasis will be placed on visual field identification of birds and bird songs. Field trips may include viewing of the Sandhill crane migration and mating rituals of prairie chickens. Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Offered as needed.

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BIO 211 Anatomy and Physiology 4 credits
This course is designed for students interested in human healthcare professions. We will utilize a system by system approach to studying the anatomy and physiology of the human body. In A & P I, we will study tissues, the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and the nervous system.
Prerequisite: BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology and Physiology or NAT 111 Life Science.

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BIO 215 Medical Terminology 1 credit
Basic vocabulary of the medical field. Designed for students interested in health related fields.

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BIO 252 Environmental Science 3 credits
A general overview of modern environmental concepts and the various components of the environment. Discussion of the various human influences on and interferences with the environment is included to increase awareness of the impact of overpopulation, overconsumption of limited resources, destruction of natural habitats and species, and poisoning of the environment with pollutants. Lecture 3 hours, lab 1 hour.

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BIO 301 Genetics 4 credits
A study of the general principles of heredity in animals, microorganisms, and plants. Significant new developments in the field are introduced along with a solid foundation in classical and molecular genetics. The laboratory includes work with a variety of different organisms. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Prerequisite: BIO 122 Introduction to Evolution, Ecology & Botany. Offered Spring 2008 and alternate years.

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BIO 306 Immunology 3 credits
A study of the immune system as it relates to human health and disease. Lectures will focus on key concepts in immunology, such as antigens, antibodies, and cell mediated immunity. An emphasis will also be placed on the role of immunity in disease with topics including hypersensitivities, autoimmune disorders, tumor immunology and response to infectious agents. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Prerequisite: BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology & Genetics. Offered as needed.

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BIO 307 General Botany 4 credits
An introduction to the plant kingdom. Emphasis is placed upon the morphology, taxonomy, reproduction, evolution, and ecology of the representative groups. Special consideration is given to the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs of seed plants. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Prerequisite: BIO 122 Introduction to Evolution, Ecology & Botany. Offered Spring 2008 and alternate years.

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BIO 311 Anatomy and Physiology II 4 credits
This course is designed for students interested in human healthcare professions. We will utilize a system by system approach to studying the anatomy and physiology of the human body. In A & P II, we will study the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, immune system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, and reproductive system.
Prerequisite: BIO 211 Anatomy and Physiology I

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BIO 325 Zoology 5 credits
A survey of the classification and biology of the invertebrates and vertebrates. Emphasis will be placed on ecology, behavior, comparative anatomy and physiology, and evolutionary relationships. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 6 hours.
Prerequisite: BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology, and Physiology. Offered Fall 2006 and alternate years.

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BIO 330 Diversity of Terrestrial Arthropods 1 credit
This course is designed to teach students how to identify terrestrial arthropods. In addition, students will learn the proper techniques for preserving terrestrial arthropods. The emphasis will be on local insects, with students completing a collection. Laboratory 3 hours.
Offered Fall 2007 and alternate years.

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BIO 335 Diversity of Aquatic Macroinvertebrates 1 credit
This course is designed to teach students how to identify aquatic invertebrates. In addition, students will learn the proper techniques for preserving aquatic invertebrates. The emphasis will be on local insects, with students completing a collection. Laboratory 3 hours.
Offered Spring 2008 and alternate years.

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BIO 354 Environmental Problem Solving 3 credits
A study of the detection and remediation of environmental problems. The course will include: sampling techniques for monitoring pollutants, examination of local environmental problems, the development of an environmental impact statement, modeling of pollutants and group and individual projects and field trips.
Prerequisites: BIO 252 Environmental Science and CHM 152 General Chemistry II. Offered as needed.

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BIO 364 Biochemistry 3 credits
An overview of biomolecules, enzyme kinetics, and the importance of the physical and chemical nature of aqueous solutions to the particular biochemistry of proteins. (Cross-listed as CHM 364)
Prerequisites: BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics, and CHM 304 Organic Chemistry II.

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BIO 364L Biochemistry Laboratory 1 credit
This course is designed for upper-level undergraduates majoring in biology and/or chemistry who want practical experience in classical and modern biochemical laboratory methods. Three hours of laboratory work per week. (Cross-listed as CHM 364L)
Prerequisites: BIO 121 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics and CHM 304 Organic Chemistry II.

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BIO 373 Microbiology 4 credits
An overall consideration of the beneficial and harmful relationships between microorganisms and humans with a focus on bacteria and viruses. Lectures include bacterial physiology, metabolism, morphology, and growth. The laboratory work includes techniques of isolation and cultivation, staining, and enzymatic reactions. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Prerequisites: BIO 122 Introduction to Evolution, Ecology & Botany and BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology, and Physiology.

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BIO 389 Research Seminar 1 credit
An introduction to the methods, procedures and techniques that are required to develop, conduct and report on an independent research project in the biological sciences. This course will help the student choose and develop a project for his/her independent research.
Prerequisites: 16 hours in biology and permission of department chair.

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BIO 399 Special Topics 1- 3 credits
A selected area of study in biology. The topic is announced in the appropriate semester’s course schedule.
Prerequisite: Generally, sophomore standing or permission of instructor. Offered as needed.

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BIO 401 General Ecology 4 credits
A study of the relationships of organisms to their environment and to one another. Emphasis is placed upon a quantitative approach to the principles and concepts of populations and communities. Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Prerequisites: BIO 122 Introduction to Evolution, Ecology & Botany, BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology, and Physiology, and CHM 152 General Chemistry II. Offered Fall 2007 and alternate years.

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BIO 418 Cellular and Molecular Biology 4 credits
A study of the structure and function of the cell on cellular, subcellular and molecular levels. How energy and information flows within and between cells will be highlighted. Significant new discoveries in this field will also be discussed. The laboratory will provide the opportunity to put many of the learned cellular concepts into practice using techniques such as DNA and protein, gel electrophoresis, purification and cell transformations.
Prerequisite: BIO 123 Introduction to Microbiology, Zoology, and Physiology. Offered as needed.

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BIO 459 Biology Internship 1- 3 credits
Off-campus supervised experience in: a) a selected area of laboratory or field biology; b) a hospital laboratory setting (medical technology); c) community and/or clinical pharmacy setting; or d) community and/or clinical physical therapy setting. Off-campus activities are coordinated by a designated off-campus supervisor in conjunction with an on-campus supervisor. Internship credit earned in a clinical setting may not be applied toward a biology major.
Prerequisites: 16 hours of biology and permission of department chair.

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BIO 479 Special Projects 1- 4 credits
An opportunity to develop skills and/or in-depth training in specialized areas. The student will plan and carry out the project under the direct supervision of a faculty member. This course may include but is not limited to: a) Advanced Human Anatomy; c) Electrophoresis and Chromatography; d) Photomicrography; e) Field Biology; g) Experimental Embryology.
Prerequisites: 12 hours of biology and permission of department chair.

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BIO 489 Readings in Biology and Environmental Studies 1- 3 credits
An opportunity to read extensively, under the supervision of an instructor, in mutually agreed upon topics in biology and/or environmental studies.
Prerequisites: 12 hours of biology and permission of department chair.

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BIO 499 Research in Biology and Environmental Studies 1- 3 credits
Individual laboratory or field problems in special phases of biology and/or environmental studies. The student is introduced to research methods and their application in generating data or other information concerning a problem.
Prerequisites: 17 hours of biology, including BIO 389, and permission of department chair.

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Last updated on February 22, 2007 .