Biology Courses
BIO 110 (3-0-3)
The Human Body
This course is an introduction to general principles of biology through the study of the human body. Two-thirds of the course covers basic topics in scientific inquiry, chemistry, structure and function of cells and cellular processes, and one-third of the course covers topics in selected human organ systems. This course is intended for non-science majors requiring a non-lab science.
BIO 111 (3-3-4)
Fundamentals of Biology
This course introduces the fundamental concepts, principles, and phenomena in biology with emphasis on humans. Topics include biological chemistry, cell biology (eukaryotic and prokaryotic), genetics, metabolism and energy, plant diversity, cell reproduction, microbes, ecology, evolution, and forensic biology. Laboratory exercises reinforce lecture concepts employing diverse and modern techniques to perform investigative science, including dissection and online work. This course is designed for the non-science major.
BIO 112 (3-3-4)
Human Biology
This course introduces the structure and function of the human body. The course provides an overview of the major organ systems of the body including the integumentary, skeletomuscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune/lymphatic, digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive. The course explores the human body as a biological system having a hierarchical organization. The laboratory complements the lecture topics and includes dissection. This course is not recommended for students pursuing science programs.
BIO 115 (3-0-3)
Current Topics in Biology
This is a one-semester course which will address some of the major problems and issues in biology. Cell structure and function, the nutritional needs of cells and organisms, the universal nature of the genetic code which allows genetic engineering, the effects of pollutants and the basic concepts of ecology are among the topics which will be covered. An appreciation of the scientific method and the types of questions science can answer will be fostered.
BIO 117 (3-3-4)
Biology of the Cell
This course introduces the general principles of biology through the study of the cell. The course covers basic topics in scientific inquiry, chemistry, structure and function of cells, and cellular processes. This course also includes topics of anatomical terminology and tissues. The laboratory portion of the course complements the lecture topics. The course prepares students for advanced courses in the allied health fields. The course is recommended for students seeking an A.S. in either the Sciences or the Health Sciences.
BIO 141 (3-3-4)
Biology I
This is the first semester of a one-year course exploring the principles of modern biology. This course focuses on the development of molecular biology and its impact on modern concepts of cell structure and physiology, cell reproduction and energy transfer. In addition, this course covers genetics, the structure of DNA, and evolution. The laboratory portion of the course consists of topics correlating with lecture and includes dissection. Prior course work in biology and chemistry is required.
BIO 142 (3-3-4)
Biology II
This second semester of a one-year course explores in depth the principles of molecular,
cellular, and organismal biology. Topics include the molecular basis of inheritance,
evolution, population genetics, six-kingdom analysis, and the systems of the human
body. The laboratory portion is designed in three parts. Part one consists of learning
techniques in molecular biology. Part two involves learning characteristics of the
six-kingdom system and the dissection of the fetal pig for different body systems.
Part three consists of conducting a laboratory research project with a formal presentation
of the results.
PR: BIO 141 S
BIO 149 (3-0-3)
Introduction to Biotechnology
This course is a general overview of the various fields in biotechnology. Topics include
current career opportunities, biotechnology research, methodologies used in biotechnology,
and bioethics.
Fall only
BIO 150 (0-3-2)
Intro to Biotechnology Lab
This laboratory covers basic protocols and techniques essential to work as a technician
in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and related industries. Labs include basic procedures,
instrumentation, solution chemistry, and performing assays. Good Manufacturing Practice
(GMP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) are
covered.
Fall only
PR/CR: BIO 149
BIO 154 (3-0-3)
Introduction to Pharmacology
This course is a survey of the fundamentals of pharmacology and is designed for students
in nursing or other health related fields. It will examine the basic understanding
of drug actions, drug absorption, bioavailability, distribution, metabolism and excretion;
the administration of therapeutic drugs; drugs that affect the nervous, cardiovascular,
and renal systems; drugs with actions on smooth muscle; endocrine drugs; chemotherapeutic
drugs; antimicrobials; cancer chemotherapy; immunopharmacology; special aspects of
pediatric, geriatric, dermatologic and gastrointestinal pharmacology.
Fall only
PR: BIO 151 and 152 and high school chemistry or CHM 113 or equivalent; higher level
of chemistry preferred.
BIO 170 (0-5-2)
Tissue Culture
This course is an introduction to the theory, standard practices, and methodologies
of cell culture. Laboratory topics include sterile techniques, media preparation,
cell growth, cell culturing, cell counting, maintenance and storage of cell lines,
and scale-up.
Fall only
PR: BIO 142
BIO 171 (0-5-2)
Recombinant DNA Techniques
This is a basic laboratory course in the theory and concepts of recombinant DNA techniques.
Topics include restriction enzymes application, methods of cDNA and genomic cloning,
analysis of molecular markers, extraction, purification and sequencing of DNA, RNA
expression, polymerase chain reaction, production and purification of recombinant
proteins and search of biological database and database analysis.
Fall only
PR: BIO 142
BIO 172 (3-3-4)
General Toxicology
This course provides students to a general overview of the field of toxicology covering
the basic principles, target organ toxicity, toxicity of particular compounds, risk
assessment as it applies to environmental and medical toxicology. Laboratory topics
include application of these concepts through utilizing common analytical techniques
used in environmental toxicology and examining case studies.
Spring only
PR: BIO 142
BIO 173 (3-0-3)
Principles of Immunology
This course introduces the basic concepts in immunology. The course covers the molecular
and genetic basis of the immune system. Antigen and antibody structure and function,
antibody production, cellular based immunity, and the major histocompatibility complex
will be emphasized.
Spring only
PR: BIO 142
BIO 174 (0-5-2)
Immunohistochemistry
This course introduces students to the various techniques used in the preparation,
processing, detection, and evaluation of immunohistochemistry (IHC) slides. Techniques
of histology, pathology, immunology, and enzymology will be applied to hands-on procedures
of tissue processing and evaluation of data.
Spring only
PR: BIO 142
BIO 203 (3-3-4)
General Ecology
Through lecture and laboratory experiences, this course focuses on the study of major
ecological principles including: population and community biology, competition and
predation, physiological ecology and adaptations, ecosystems, nutrient cycles, energy
flow, and ecological succession. The ecological basis of contemporary environmental
problems is examined and related to human activities. Quantitative perspectives and
analysis will be used throughout. Portions of the laboratory experience will occur
outside the indoor laboratory space. External laboratory exercises will take place
on campus property or immediately adjacent spaces, or may involve field trips.
Spring only
PR: BIO 142 and CHM 121
BIO 241 (3-3-4)
Microbiology
This course covers the principles of microbiology. Topics include microbial diversity,
cell structure and function, physiology, genetics, reproduction, microbial pathogenicity
and immunology, host resistance and immunity. Also covered are concepts in genetic
engineering and biotechnology, industrial microbiology, and microbial ecology. Basic
techniques and procedures used by microbiologists are emphasized in the laboratory.
PR: BIO 112 or BIO 141 or BIO 151 or Approval of the Dean.
BIO 245 (3-3-4)
Exercise Physiology
Students evaluate the acute responses and chronic adaptations of the body to the stresses
of exercise. Major topics include cellular and molecular physiology, histology with
emphasis on myology, circulatory, respiratory, neuromuscular systems, and bioenergetics.
PR: BIO 141
BIO 250 (1-8-3)
Biotechnology Internship
This course provides direct hands-on field experience in biotechnology, medical or
research laboratories. Weekly progress reports are required. A minimum of 96 hours
of internship-related activities is required at the placement site.
PR: BIO 150 and minimum G.P.A. 2.5
BIO 261 (3-3-4)
Cell & Molecular Biology
This course covers the principles of cell and molecular biology, including structure,
function, and molecular relationships amongst the components of the cell. Major topics
include macromolecules, organelles, biological membranes, cell metabolism, growth
and replication, energy transformation, extracellular matrix, signal transduction,
organization of the genome and regulation of gene expression.
Fall only
PR: BIO 142 and CHM 121
BIO 262 (3-0-3)
Genetics
This course introduces students to the aspects of modern genetics. Topics include
gene structure and function, Mendelian and non-Mendelian genetics, gene expression,
population genetics, recombinant DNA technology, and genome analysis with emphasis
on human aspects and applications.
PR: BIO 141 and CHM 121
BIO 263 (0-6-3)
Biotechnology Techniques
This course uses the laboratory setting to explore experimental and analytical techniques
used in cell biology, molecular genetics and biotechnology to gain an understanding
of cell and molecular processes. The course covers biotechnology laboratory skills
applicable to research and industrial settings.
Spring only
PR: BIO 261
BIO 264 (0-3-1)
Genetics Laboratory
This course involves both hands-on and computer simulated experiments that cover basic genetics concepts and techniques. Student develop hands-on skills in the techniques and tools employed in traditional and modern molecular genetics research, and study development in model organisms. Students conduct lab exercises and assignments that apply the scientific method in genetic experiments, hone their writing skills, maintain a scientific research notebook, devise experiments, simulate, problem solve, and critically evaluate and communicate experimental results. This laboratory course is intended to accompany BIO 262 Genetics.
BIO 273 (3-3-4)
Anatomy & Physiology I
This is the first course of a lecture –laboratory sequence for the students of the
Allied Health fields. Lecture topics include anatomical and medical terminology, tissues,
integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Laboratory work covers the
anatomy and physiology of the above topics and systems. Emphasis is placed on both
gross and microscopic work. It also includes dissections.
Note: This course was previously offered as course number BIO 151
BIO 274 (3-3-4)
Anatomy & Physiology II
This is the second course of a lecture–laboratory sequence designed for the students
of the Allied Health fields. Lecture topics include endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory,
digestive, immune/lymphatic, urinary, and reproductive systems, nutrition and metabolism,
and fluid and electrolyte balance. Laboratory work covers the anatomy and physiology
of the above systems and topics. Emphasis is placed on both gross and microscopic
work. It also includes vertebrate dissections which are a required component of the
study of gross anatomy.
PR: BIO 273
Note: This course was previously offered as course number BIO 152