BIO 109 Freshman Seminar in Biology
A seminar course to prepare students majoring in biology to take primary responsibility for developing an academic plan which meets the demands of their educational and career goals. Students are made aware of the academic expectations of both the university and their major program in parallel with the divisional and University-wide resources available to assist them in meeting those expectations. Students will also begin to explore experiences/ resources beyond the classroom/campus that will enrich their education and enhance their opportunity for success. Restricted to first-year students majoring in biology. Grading is on a Pass/Fail basis. 1 credit
BIO 110 Foundations of Organismal Biology
A first course in the Biology curriculum that introduces students to the unity of life in both animals and plants. Students will learn that although the life forms of our planet may vary in evolutionary history, they share the same basic principles of form and function. The course will cover the anatomical structures and physiological systems that maintain animal and plant life. Three hours of lecture per week. For biology majors. Corequisite: BIO 111. In conjunction with BIO 111 fulfills the N requirement. 3 credits.
BIO 111 Experimental Methods in Organismal Biology
A laboratory course that accompanies BIO 110. In this course, students will explore experimental procedures designed to demonstrate various anatomical and physiological characteristics associated with the members of the plant and animal kingdoms. Three hours of laboratory per week. For biology majors. Corequisite: BIO 110. With BIO 110 fulfills the N requirement. 1 credit.
BIO 120 Foundations of Molecular and Cell Biology
A second course in the Biology curriculum that introduces the students to cell theory, including the structure and function of cells at the microscopic and sub-cellular levels. Students will also examine the concepts of energy metabolism, biosynthesis of macromolecules, and the genetic level of organization. Three hours of lecture per week. For biology and chemistry majors. Corequisite: BIO 121. Approved as linked course with CHM 112. 3 credits.
BIO 121 Experimental Methods in Molecular and Cell Biology
A laboratory course that accompanies BIO 120. Lab experiences are designed to demonstrate and reinforce the theory presented in lecture through active scientific investigation while giving students experience in the use of experimental techniques in microscopy, cell physiology, electrophoresis, macromolecular, and enzymatic analysis. 3 hours of laboratory per week. For biology and chemistry majors. Corequisite: BIO 120. Approved for T skills integration. 1 credit
BIO 130 Foundations of Ecology and Evolution
A third course in the biology curriculum that introduces students to the unifying concept in biology and to ecological study. This course provides for an investigation of biological evolution from its earliest form to the modern synthesis. The mechanisms driving evolutionary change are highlighted. Additionally, this course introduces students to ecology, the study of the interactions of organisms with each other and their physical environment. Students are introduced to processes operating at the individual, population, community, and ecosystem levels of organization. 3 hours of lecture per week. For biology majors. Corequisite: BIO 131. 3 credits
BIO 131 Experimental Methods in Ecology and Evolution
A laboratory course that accompanies BIO 130. Exercises that demonstrate evolutionary processes are presented, as well as laboratory and field techniques used in ecological study. The lab experience is meant to engage students in independent lines of inquiry guided by the scientific method. Three hours of laboratory per week. For biology majors. Corequisite: BIO 130. Approved for Q and W skills integration. 1 credit
BIO 151 Computer Applications for Science and Mathematics
An introduction to the practical application of computer hardware and software to problems in the sciences and mathematics. Topics include basics like using a graphical user interface and common office applications. More advanced topics include computer interfacing to instruments, mathematical modeling, curve fitting, molecular modeling, and others. No computer background is assumed. Three hours lecture/workshop/demonstration weekly. Also listed as CHM 151 and MAT 151. Prerequisite: CHM 111, BIO 110 or PCS 221; MAT 152; CC100, 101, 102. Approved for Q and T skills integration and also as Interdisciplinary course. 3 credits
BIO 157 Contemporary Biology
An overview of the principles and applications of biological knowledge as they relate to health, medical, agricultural, and ecological issues in contemporary society. The process and methods of scientific inquiry, its resulting technologies, our understanding of the natural world, and the impact of our knowledge and the technologies on our society and environment are examined. An underlying theme is humankind and its relationship to, and place in, the natural world. Three hours of lecture, and one two-hour lab per week. Fulfi lls N, NN, and PJ requirements. Open to all non-biology majors. 4 credits
BIO 180 Introduction to Biology
A preparation of the nursing student for undergraduate studies in human biology and related biological sciences. In one half-semester, the core biological principles and concepts in cell structure and function, energy metabolism and biosynthesis, genetics and gene expression are presented. Introductory chemical principles for the structure and bonding of atoms, molecules and macromolecules, solutions, acids and bases and buffers, and biochemistry are also examined. Throughout the course the process of scientifi c investigation is emphasized. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. This course is a prerequisite for BIO 201, BIO 202, BIO 203 and BIO 227. Fulfills N, NN core requirement for Nursing majors. This course does not satisfy an elective requirement for Biology majors. Fulfills the N requirement. 4 credits.
BIO 201 Anatomy and Physiology I (Nursing)
BIO 202 Anatomy and Physiology II (Nursing)
A sequence of courses where students in the first semester examine the anatomy and physiology of the support and control systems of the human body: skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine. In the second semester students examine systems concerned with maintenance: cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive. The relationship between structure and function and the concept of homeostasis are emphasized. Attention is given to clinical correlation and application of basic anatomical and physiological facts. Three hours of combined lecture/lab weekly. Prerequisites: BIO 180 for BIO 201 and BIO 201 for BIO 202. These courses do not satisfy an elective requirement for biology majors. 4 credits each
BIO 203 Pathophysiology (Nursing)
A course examining the underlying processes and effects of disease at the level of cells, tissues, organs, and systems. Cellular mechanisms lay the foundation for examining pathophysiological changes in organs and systems. Three hours of lectures weekly. Prerequisites: BIO 180, BIO 201, and BIO 202. This course does not satisfy an elective requirement for biology majors. 3 credits
BIO 205 Anatomy and Physiology I
BIO 206 Anatomy and Physiology II
A set of two courses designed for the Biology major preparing for a career in perfusion technology or other health professions. This comprehensive course covers the anatomical structure of all major systems of the body and the physiological and homeostatic mechanisms that are associated with their functions. Three hours of lecture and two hours of lab per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, and BIO 121. Elective courses in Human Biology. 4 credits each
BIO 210 Teaching Elementary Science I — Physical and Earth Science (Education Majors)
BIO 211 Teaching Elementary Science II — Biology and Chemistry (Education Majors)
A set of two courses designed to promote science teaching competency by giving directions on how to organize and conduct meaningful science-learning experiences in the elementary school. Through hands-on investigation of the physical, earth, and life sciences, education majors acquire knowledge in science, increase their skills in using science processes and develop a positive attitude toward science. Three hours lecture/science activity each week. Open only to Education majors. Together these courses fulfill the NN and N requirement. 3 credits each
BIO 225 Comparative Anatomy
A course designed to provide the Biology major with a comprehensive understanding of the anatomy of the members of the Phylum Chordata. Through lectures and laboratory dissection, students examine the diverse nature of chordate structure and appreciate the mechanisms of evolution that have produced these features. Three hours of lecture and two hours of lab per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130 and BIO 131. Elective course in Organismal Biology and Ecology. 4 credits
BIO 227 Microbiology (Nursing)
A course designed to provide nursing students with an introduction to the biology of micro-organisms, particularly the bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses that are agents of human disease. Emphasis is on the biological bases for clinical activities in disinfecting and sanitation, infection control and prevention, and antimicrobial chemotherapies. Host defenses, the immune response, and immunotherapies are examined. Includes practical experience in bacteriological and immunological lab techniques. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour lab per week. Prerequisite: BIO 180. This course does not satisfy an elective requirement for Biology majors. 4 credits
BIO 250 Genetics
An investigation of the maintenance, inheritance, transfer, and expression of genetic information at the molecular, cellular, organismal, and population levels. Includes Mendelian genetics, bacterial genetics, the structure and function of chromosomes and genes, recombination and mutation, the control of gene expression, and population genetics. Provides a brief introduction to genetic engineering and biotechnology. Three hours of lecture, one three-hour lab per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, CHM 221, Corequisite: CHM 222. Elective course in Molecular and Cell Biology and Biotechnology. 4 credits
BIO 255 Field Ecology
A broad survey of the study of interactions of organisms with each other and their physical environment. This course addresses the dynamics of energy fl ow and nutrient cycling through ecosystems, as well as ecological processes operating at the individual, population, and community levels of organization. Emphasis is placed on the methods ecologists use to conduct their research. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory each week. One weekend field trip is also planned. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131. Elective course in Organismal Biology and Ecology. 4 credits
BIO 260 Botany
An introduction to the study of the plant kingdom by observing its development from a simple cell to a structurally and functionally complex multicellular organism. Emphasizes human dependence on plants for food, oxygen and drugs as well as the aesthetic and economic values. Highlights current research in gene activity, photosynthesis, respiration and growth substances. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131. Elective course in Organismal Biology and Ecology. 4 credits
BIO 261 Zoology
A course designed to provide the Biology major with an understanding of the diversity, taxonomy, ecology, and behavior of many phyla of animals, especially emphasizing the invertebrates. Allows the student to survey the diversity of animal forms in the environment, and the contributions, both positive and negative, that they make in our everyday lives. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131. Elective course in Organismal Biology and Ecology. 4 credits
BIO 275 Introduction to Forensic Death Investigation
A course that is the first in a sequence of courses designed to prepare students for careers in forensic death investigation. The course introduces students to the history, legalities, equipment, and procedures associated with post-mortem examinations. Students will also be required to observe practical autopsy procedures. Four hours of classroom theory/ laboratory training per week, with observational times TBA. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, BIO 205, and Corequisite: BIO 206. 4 credits
BIO 305 Pathophysiology
A course for Biology majors examining the underlying processes and effects of disease at the level of cells, tissues, organs, and systems. Cellular mechanisms lay the foundation for examining pathophysiological changes in organs and systems. Three hours of lecture and 2 hours of lab weekly. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, BIO 205, and BIO 206. Elective course in Human Biology. 4 credits
BIO 310 Cell Biology
A study of the basic cellular and molecular mechanisms by which cells function: membrane transport, metabolism and ATP production, DNA replication, protein synthesis, cell movement, and division. Laboratories introduce students to cell culture, microscopy, centrifugation, electrophoresis, spectrophotometry and other techniques used to study cells. Three hours of lecture; one three hour lab per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, CHM 221, and CHM 222. Elective course in Molecular and Cell Biology and Biotechnology. 4 credits
BIO 335 Microbiology and Immunology
A comprehensive examination of the Biology of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. Emphasis is placed on, but not limited to, the bases of microbial diseases, their control, prevention, treatment, and host defenses including immune responses and immunotherapies. Includes practical experience in bacteriological and immunological lab techniques. Three hours of lecture, one three hour lab per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, CHM 221, and CHM 222. Elective course in Molecular and Cell Biology and Biotechnology. 4 credits
BIO 339 Pharmacology
A one-semester course designed to provide the Biology major with an in-depth understanding of the pharmacologic principles regarding particular medical issues. Receptor mechanisms are applied as they relate to the therapeutic application of drugs and the major side effects and adverse reactions of commonly used drugs. Descriptions of drugs classified as autonomic, central nervous system, cardiovascular, endocrine, and chemotherapeutic agents are studied. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 121, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, CHM 111 and CHM 112. Corequisites: CHM 221 and CHM 222. Elective course in Human Biology. BIO 205 and BIO 206 highly recommended. 3 credits
BIO 357 Gross Anatomy
A course designed to provide the Biology major with the unique opportunity to explore the details of human anatomy through cadaver dissection. This is a two-semester course, but the student can elect to take the credit for the course in either the Fall or Spring semesters. One hour of classroom theory and a minimum of two hours of dissection time per week are required. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, BIO 205 and BIO 206. Elective course in Human Biology. 4 credits
BIO 375 Autopsy Practicum I
A course that is the first in a two-course sequence (BIO 375 and BIO 376) designed to provide biology majors in the autopsy specialist program with hands-on practical experience in autopsy techniques. Students in BIO 375 will initially gain experience through observations and gradually progress to assisting in the autopsy procedure. Beginning in the later stages of BIO 375 and continuing into BIO 376, student teams will perform complete autopsies in rotating fashion. Teams of three will begin with each member of the team performing one component of the autopsy (i.e. cranial, thoracic, and abdominal), and rotating in successive autopsies until all members of the team have performed a complete autopsy. Four hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 205, BIO 206, and BIO 275. 4 credits
BIO 376 Autopsy Practicum II
A second course in the autopsy practicum sequence is designed to provide the student with practical autopsy experiences. After completing BIO 375 (Autopsy Practicum I) the students will have had hands-on experiences performing routine autopsy procedures. This second course will enhance their training by allowing the students to work with forensic pathologists, detectives, recovery and investigation personnel, and attorneys. This will also allow students to experience some of the legal issues associated with autopsy procedures, whether it be for criminal, civil, family, or insurance reasons. Four hours of laboratory/on-call time per week. Prerequisite: BIO 375. 4 credits
BIO 380 Embryology and Histology
A study of the tissue of vertebrates and the embryological mechanisms associated with the development of the vertebrate body. The histology component of the course focuses on the major tissue groups that make up the vertebrate body and examines the contribution of each to the form and function of the organism as a whole. The embryology component explores classical embryological development from the zygote through organogenesis and provides an overview of the developmental mechanisms associated with embryological differentiation. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, and BIO 131. Elective course in Organismal Biology and Ecology. 4 credits
BIO 390 Histology
An examination of cell and tissue structure primarily at the light microscopic level although some electron microscopy of cell structure will be considered. The focus is on major tissue groups that make up the vertebrate body, and examines the contribution of each to the structure and function of the organism as a whole. Emphasis will be placed on the technology and histological methods used in preparing tissues for microscopic examination and study. Prerequisite: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 130, and BIO 131. Elective courses in organismal biology and ecology. Approved for T skills integration. 4 credits
BIO 399/401 Junior Seminar
An opportunity for junior Biology majors to research current trends and topics in their discipline and present a seminar devoted to the topic of their choice. Junior presentations may be on any topic approved in advance by the seminar director. 1 credit each
BIO 400 Independent Study
A student-designed course of study in an area of biology not covered by current courses, under the guidance of a faculty member. Requires the approval and sponsorship of a faculty member prior to registration. For biology majors. Credits vary
BIO 402/403 Senior Experience
A general survey of the fi eld of biology through student presentation and discussion of major principles, problems, discoveries, and theories. Students pursue this experience under the direction of a department member. One hour seminar and additional time in laboratory research or professional experience weekly. Required of all senior Biology majors. 2 credits each
BIO 406 Animal Physiology
A comparative approach to the adaptive nature of animal function. This course addresses the diversity of solutions that have evolved in animals in response to environmental conditions presented in their natural habitats. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, CHM 111 and CHM 112. Elective course in Organismal Biology and Ecology. 4 credits
BIO 420 Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Provides the research-oriented student with an in-depth exposure to the tools and techniques of molecular Biology and biotechnology. Includes molecular cloning, genetic engineering, DNA sequencing, protein expression and purifi cation, immunological techniques, electrophoresis, blotting, and hybridization of nucleic acids and proteins. Two three-hour lectures/lab sessions per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, BIO 111, BIO 120, BIO 121, BIO 130, BIO 131, CHM 221, and CHM 222. Pre- or Corequisite: CHM 306. Elective course in Molecular and Cell Biology and Biotechnology. Approved for T skills integration. 4 credits
BIO 475 Autopsy Specialist Externship I
BIO 476 Autopsy Specialist Externship II
These externships are designed to give the senior student practical experience in the various venues where forensic evidence is gathered, analyzed, and ultimately utilized in legal settings. Two externship sites will be selected from the following general categories: coroners’ offi ces; The Pennsylvania State Police; forensic laboratories; and law practices. The sites that are not utilized as components of BIO 475 will be included in BIO 476 Autopsy Specialist Externship II. Prerequisite: BIO 376. 4 credits |
