Department of Biological Sciences

Introduction to concepts that contribute to understanding the distinctive nature and characteristics of life, its cellular, physical and chemical bases. Emphasis on the function of tissues, organs and systems of the human body. Three-hour lecture per week. (For students not majoring in the sciences.)

Introduction to concepts that contribute to understanding the distinctive nature and characteristics of life, its chemical, informational, cellular, and ecological basis, with emphasis on the human and laboratory discovery. Lecture and Lab. (For students not majoring in the sciences).

Biology of Homo sapiens, including discussions of human evolution, ecology, genetics and development; mammalian cellular, tissue, and organ structure and function; mammalian physiology emphasizing nervous and hormonal coordination necessary for homeostasis. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week. (Primarily for psychology majors). Lab fee $25.

Biology of Homo sapiens, including discussions of human evolution, ecology, genetics and development; mammalian cellular, tissue, and organ structure and function; mammalian physiology emphasizing nervous and hormonal coordination necessary for homeostasis. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week. (Primarily for psychology majors).

Same course content as BIOL 1105, but does not include lab. Three-hour lecture per week. (Primarily for non-science majors).

Same course content as BIOL 1106, but does not include lab. Three-hour lecture per week. (Primarily for non-science majors).

Introduction to the structure and function of the human body through the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ system levels. Elements of structure as a basis for understanding function of major body systems, including: neural, endocrine, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, digestive, renal, respiratory, reproductive, and more. Emphasis on the regulation of body processes to maintain homeostasis/wellbeing in the face of changing environment or disease challenge. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week. Not for Biology majors.

Introduction to the structure and function of the human body through the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ system levels. Elements of structure as a basis for understanding function of major body systems, including: neural, endocrine, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, digestive, renal, respiratory, reproductive, and more. Emphasis on the regulation of body processes to maintain homeostasis/wellbeing in the face of changing environment or disease challenge. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week. Not for Biology majors.

Introduction to the structure and function of the human body through the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ system levels. Elements of structure as a basis for understanding function of major body systems, including: neural, endocrine, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, digestive, renal, respiratory, reproductive, and more. Emphasis on the regulation of body processes to maintain homeostasis/wellbeing in the face of changing environment or disease challenge. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week. Not for Biology majors.

Introduction to the structure and function of the human body through the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ system levels. Elements of structure as a basis for understanding function of major body systems, including: neural, endocrine, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, digestive, renal, respiratory, reproductive, and more. Emphasis on the regulation of body processes to maintain homeostasis/wellbeing in the face of changing environment or disease challenge. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week. Not for Biology majors.

Biology of various living organisms, introduction to taxonomy, phylogeny and evolution of organisms, as well as the structure and function of various organ systems in vertebrates.

Biology of various living organisms, introduction to taxonomy, phylogeny and evolution of organisms, as well as the structure and function of various organ systems in vertebrates.

Introduction to genetics, the cellular basis of life forms, the structures and functions of biologically important molecules. Covers cellular and molecular aspects of operation of bodily systems that are treated more descriptively in BIOL 1201 (e.g., kidney function, nerve cell function, muscle contraction, hormone action and cellular recognition in immunity). Includes microscopy, permeability, molecular modeling, enzyme studies, spectrophotometry, statistics and data analysis.

Introduction to genetics, the cellular basis of life forms, the structures and functions of biologically important molecules. Covers cellular and molecular aspects of operation of bodily systems that are treated more descriptively in BIOL 1201 (e.g., kidney function, nerve cell function, muscle contraction, hormone action and cellular recognition in immunity). Includes microscopy, permeability, molecular modeling, enzyme studies, spectrophotometry, statistics and data analysis.

Application of basic scientific laws, principles and concepts to environmental and resource problems. Scientific concepts such as matter and energy resources; soil, water and food resources; ecosystems, atmosphere and geologic processes; air and water pollution and pesticides will be studied. Problems such as deforestation, loss of biodiversity and global climate change will be examined. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week. (Part of the environmental studies program; not a biology major elective course.) Lab fee TBA.

Integrated approach to the principles of bacteriology, mycology, virology and parasitology to provide a better understanding of the problems of health and disease (Not for science majors or pre-medical/pre-dental students). Students with a nursing major or tracking nursing must earn a “C+” or higher grade to fulfill the nursing program requirements.

Integrated approach to the principles of bacteriology, mycology, virology and parasitology to provide a better understanding of the problems of health and disease (Not for science majors or pre-medical/pre-dental students). Students with a nursing major or tracking nursing must earn a “C+” or higher grade to fulfill the nursing program requirements.

Use of library resources to search the literature of the biological sciences and compile bibliographies. Principles of scientific inquiry and development of scientific theories explored through discussion with faculty. Review of various research areas and topics for laboratory investigation. Class assignments and term papers. One hour per week.

Fundamental principles of classic and molecular genetics. Simple inheritance patterns, cytogenetics, DNA replication, protein synthesis, regulatory mechanisms, genetic engineering and behavioral genetics. Problems of human genetics as related to genetic counseling and genetic engineering. Laboratory experiments illustrate principles of genetics using various organisms. Introduction to statistics and computers as applied to genetics.

Fundamental principles of classic and molecular genetics. Simple inheritance patterns, cytogenetics, DNA replication, protein synthesis, regulatory mechanisms, genetic engineering and behavioral genetics. Problems of human genetics as related to genetic counseling and genetic engineering. Laboratory experiments illustrate principles of genetics using various organisms. Introduction to statistics and computers as applied to genetics.

Study of cell morphology and cell physiology, including diversity of cell types resulting from cell specialization, the intracellular and intercellular mechanisms by which cells communicate, reproduce, and develop. Experimental approaches and methodology are emphasized, as well as the cell’s fundamental importance in medicine and disease. Laboratory exercises emphasize experimental design and execution, as well as data collection, analysis and presentation. Quantitative problem solving is emphasized throughout the lecture and laboratory components. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week.

Study of cell morphology and cell physiology, including diversity of cell types resulting from cell specialization, the intracellular and intercellular mechanisms by which cells communicate, reproduce, and develop. Experimental approaches and methodology are emphasized, as well as the cell’s fundamental importance in medicine and disease. Laboratory exercises emphasize experimental design and execution, as well as data collection, analysis and presentation. Quantitative problem solving is emphasized throughout the lecture and laboratory components. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week.

Methods of original laboratory investigation and research projects. Hours by arrangement. Limited to juniors and seniors approved by the faculty. Permission must be obtained prior to registration. A maximum of 8 credits is permitted in BIOL 3191-3198. From the combined course groups of Biology Honors, Independent Study, and Biology Research, a maximum of four credits may be counted toward the biology major requirements. Any additional credits earned in those three course groups count as general electives.

Methods of original laboratory investigation and research projects. Hours by arrangement. Limited to juniors and seniors approved by the faculty. Permission must be obtained prior to registration. A maximum of 8 credits is permitted in BIOL 3191-3198. From the combined course groups of Biology Honors, Independent Study, and Biology Research, a maximum of four credits may be counted toward the biology major requirements. Any additional credits earned in those three course groups count as general electives.

Methods of original laboratory investigation and research projects. Hours by arrangement. Limited to juniors and seniors approved by the faculty. Permission must be obtained prior to registration. A maximum of 8 credits is permitted in BIOL 3191-3198. From the combined course groups of Biology Honors, Independent Study, and Biology Research, a maximum of four credits may be counted toward the biology major requirements. Any additional credits earned in those three course groups count as general electives.

Methods of original laboratory investigation and research projects. Hours by arrangement. Limited to juniors and seniors approved by the faculty. Permission must be obtained prior to registration. A maximum of 8 credits is permitted in BIOL 3191-3198. From the combined course groups of Biology Honors, Independent Study, and Biology Research, a maximum of four credits may be counted toward the biology major requirements. Any additional credits earned in those three course groups count as general electives.

Insight into current biological research and, with direct contact with the staff affords the opportunity to examine the biological sciences as a cultural subject and a professional field. Hours are by arrangement. (Limited to students selected by the faculty. Arrangements must be made and permission obtained prior to registration.) A maximum of 8 credits are permitted in BIOL 3191-3198. From the combined course groups of Biology Honors, Independent Study, and Biology Research a maximum of four credits may be counted toward the biology major requirements. Any additional credits earned in those three course groups count as general electives.

Insight into current biological research and, with direct contact with the staff affords the opportunity to examine the biological sciences as a cultural subject and a professional field. Hours are by arrangement. (Limited to students selected by the faculty. Arrangements must be made and permission obtained prior to registration.) A maximum of 8 credits are permitted in BIOL 3191-3198. From the combined course groups of Biology Honors, Independent Study, and Biology Research a maximum of four credits may be counted toward the biology major requirements. Any additional credits earned in those three course groups count as general electives.

Study of normal cells and tissues and how they are organized to form functional organ systems in humans. Laboratory involves analysis of prepared slides as well as some of the current microscopic techniques used to study cells and tissues. Lecture and labs are offered online. Face-to-face meetings with instructor each week for review of lecture and lab materials.

Sustainability in the marine environment involves synchronizing human activities with the rhythms of nature. Students learn the theory of sustainability from the perspectives of marine biology and resource management, religious values, and socio-economic constraints, and study the application of these concepts in a particular geographic setting, Campobello Island, at the US-Canada border. This “travel and learn” course is offered in the summer term, and includes travel and residence for one week on Campobello Island, off the coast of Maine. The course fulfills the University Core Signature 3 requirement.

Students examine the inter-relationships of organisms with their environment, including the influences of human activities. Through reading, research, class discussion, computer simulations, field experiences, and contemplative exercises, students explore their roles within the Earth community in the context of both the natural sciences and the Catholic tradition of Saint Francis of Assisi and Bernard Lonergan.

Students examine the inter-relationships of organisms with their environment, including the influences of human activities. Through reading, research, class discussion, computer simulations, field experiences, and contemplative exercises, students explore their roles within the Earth community in the context of both the natural sciences and the Catholic tradition of Saint Francis of Assisi and Bernard Lonergan.

Inheritance of various traits from simple inheritance patterns to biochemical traits, to behavioral traits and Complex patterns of inheritance. Methods for detection of human traits will be discussed.

Population genetics; Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium; genetic variation; kinds of selection; speciation mechanism; major phylogenetic patterns; evidence for organic evolution; and modern techniques (such as biochemical, morphometric, behavioral) in population genetics and taxonomy. Three-hour lecture per week. Offered in alternate years.

Study of the chemical and physical structures of DNA molecules. Genetic code, transcription, translation, mutation and the regulatory mechanisms of DNA, RNA and proteins of prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Contemporary biotechnology topics are introduced, and recent scientific articles are also included.

Synthesis and degradation of organic molecules in living systems, especially humans. Dietary, medical and genetic aspects of metabolism. Integration and regulation of pathways. Includes metabolic activities restricted to plants and microorganisms; representative antibiotics, toxins, drugs. Three-hour lecture per week.

Discussion of antigenicity, recognition and specificity. Development of the immune system: humoral and cell mediated responses. Cellular interactions, lymphokines and regulations. Structure and function of immunoglobulins, genetic basis of diversity, gammopathy and monoclonal antibody. Complement system, tolerance and immunosuppression. Autoimmunity and immunogenetics. Three-hour lecture and four-hour laboratory per week.

Students examine the inter-relationships of organisms with their environment, including the influences of human activities. Through reading, research, class discussion, computer simulations, field experiences, and contemplative exercises, students explore their roles within the Earth community in the context of both the natural sciences and the Catholic tradition of Saint Francis of Assisi and Bernard Lonergan.

A comprehensive coverage of the physiology of cells, organs and organ systems with emphasis on the underlying biophysical and biochemical principles of function. Organ systems, including nerve, muscle, cardiovascular, respiratory and renal, are examined from the standpoint of their regulation and role in maintenance of homeostasis. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week.

Role of hormones in coordinating homeostasis. Emphasis on neuroendocrinology, including functional neuroanatomy and neuro-chemistry. Study of the mechanism of action of hormones at the cellular and molecular levels. Review and analysis of current literature. Three-hour lecture per week

Fundamental principles. Aspects of production and selection of microbial mutants. Classic mechanisms of microbial recombination, including transformation, transduction, and conjugation and recombinant DNA technology as related to microorganisms. Three-hour lecture per week.

Descriptive and experimental study of the development of vertebrates with emphasis on human development. Topics include gametogenesis, fertilization, cleavage, gastrulation, organogenesis and mechanisms involved in control of shaping, pattern formation and gene expression during development. Three-hour lecture, three-hour laboratory per week.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I is part I of the two-part series that studies the structure and function of the human body extending from the microscopic components of cells and tissues to organs and organ systems. BIOL 3334 & 3335 includes the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and immune system. These courses are designed for BIOT (PT Track), BIOP (PA Track), BIOZ (AT Track) specifically. Biology majors who are not in a PT/PA/AT track need permission from the instructor to take these courses. For biology majors who have taken BIOL 3321, only BIOL 3334 & 3335, NOT BIOL 3336 & 3337, are accepted as biology elective, and BIOL 3336 & 3337 are accepted as a general elective only.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I is part I of the two-part series that studies the structure and function of the human body extending from the microscopic components of cells and tissues to organs and organ systems. BIOL 3334 & 3335 includes the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and immune system. These courses are designed for BIOT (PT Track), BIOP (PA Track), BIOZ (AT Track) specifically. Biology majors who are not in a PT/PA/AT track need permission from the instructor to take these courses. For biology majors who have taken BIOL 3321, only BIOL 3334 & 3335, NOT BIOL 3336 & 3337, are accepted as biology elective, and BIOL 3336 & 3337 are accepted as a general elective only.

Human Anatomy and Physiology II is part II of the two-part series that studies the structure and function of the human bbody extending from the microscopic components of cells and tissues to organs and organ systems. BIOL 3336 & 3337 covers the organ systems such as the nervous system, endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, metabolism, urinary system, acid base balance, and reproductive system. These courses are designed for BIOT (PT Track), BIOP (PA Track), BIOZ (AT Track) specifically. Biology majors who are not in a PT/PA/AT track need permission from the instructor to take these courses. For biology majors who have taken BIOL 3321, only BIOL 3334 & 3335, NOT BIOL 3336 & 3337, are accepted as biology elective, and BIOL 3336 & 3337 are accepted as general elective only.

Human Anatomy and Physiology II is part II of the two-part series that studies the structure and function of the human bbody extending from the microscopic components of cells and tissues to organs and organ systems. BIOL 3336 & 3337 covers the organ systems such as the nervous system, endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, metabolism, urinary system, acid base balance, and reproductive system. These courses are designed for BIOT (PT Track), BIOP (PA Track), BIOZ (AT Track) specifically. Biology majors who are not in a PT/PA/AT track need permission from the instructor to take these courses. For biology majors who have taken BIOL 3321, only BIOL 3334 & 3335, NOT BIOL 3336 & 3337, are accepted as biology elective, and BIOL 3336 & 3337 are accepted as general elective only.

Introduction to principles of ecotoxicology, including toxicity of petroleum and oil, solvents and pesticides, environmental ionizing radiation, air pollution, plant and animal toxins. Analytical and bioassay methods of detection will be studied as well as risk assessment. Three-hour lecture per week.

This course will familiarize students with the basic biology of stem cells and their use in regenerative medicine. Students will gain an understanding of the salient properties of stem cells and appreciate differences in embryonic versus adult stem cells. We will discuss the maintenance of stem cells, signals that promote their differentiation to specialized cell types, and the effects of disruption of this balance in cancers and degenerative diseases. Students will be exposed to primary research literature discussing different model systems used to study stem cell behavior and in the development of therapeutic approaches against diseases.

Microbiological theories, methods and techniques: comprehensive background in the structure, physiology and nomenclature of bacteria, yeast and fungi. Laboratory techniques used for the isolation, staining, culturing and identification of a variety of microorganisms. Three-hour lecture, four-hour laboratory per week. BIOL 3411 is required for B.S./M.S.P.A. and Secondary Education students. Those students will have priority to register for this course.

This course provides a comprehensive review of biological principles applied to forensic science. Topics that will be discussed include, but are not limited to: crime scene, sample recovery and handling, analytical techniques, drug/alcohol use and abuse, serology, firearms, DNA, and hair and fiber analysis.

The course has been divided into two specific sections. The first section has been designed to meet the following objectives: word roots, combining forms, prefixes and suffixes, defining and understanding the specialties of medicine, building surgical and diagnostic terms. The course also covers the study of suffixes that pertain to medical diagnosis, the study of suffixes to understand medical procedures, diagnostic imagery- X-ray, CT, MRI, how, why and when to use them. Selected abbreviations that are standard in the medical community. Building terms about disease and disorder- suffixes and prefixes pertaining to specific pathologies will be studied in the first section of the course. Organization of the body- frames of reference, and the anatomical position. Sections of the body: coronal, frontal and transverse and their application to CT scans and MRI will be studied. General word parts about body fluids will be introduced and used to write medical terms. Classification of type of disease, such as organic diseases as opposed to functional disorders. Three-hour lecture.

Students will gain an understanding of (1) the physical design of the compound light microscope and its relationship to image formation; (2) the physics of image formation; and (3) selected biological microscopic imaging techniques. Students will gain mastery of (1) the hands-on use of the compound light microscope, (2) basic sample preparation, (3) quantitative image analysis, and (4) the production of publication-quality images. Students will gain experience in the use of specific biological imaging techniques including wide-field fluorescence and confocal imaging, time-lapse imaging, and three-dimensional volume reconstruction. Three-hour lecture/lab.

The ethics, principles and practices of permaculture (permanent agriculture and permanent culture) are introduced with real life examples of urban, suburban and rural landscape regeneration projects. Using whole systems thinking, students will design human habitats that yield perennial abundance and enduring value. Focus on habitats that are adaptive, resilient and secure places, in a future of peak oil, climate instability, and deepening economic insolvency. The course is accompanied by Permaculture Design Lab (1 credit). Together, the course and the lab lead to a professional certificate in Permaculture Design.

See Co-op Adviser.

See Co-op Adviser.

See Co-op Adviser.

Students are introduced to recent research developments in different biological fields and integrate what they learned in the classroom setting with what is conducted in the laboratory setting. Students will learn experimental design, communication skills, and how to discuss and evaluate biological research.

Laboratory research carried out previously are the basis for an extensive written report. The thesis must be completed in order for any biology honors credits to be included in the 32 biology credits required in the major.

Seminars and discussions designed to integrate readings of the current biology literature with both written and oral presentation. Specific goals include: acquiring skills in gathering and analysis of biological information, developing confidence and expertise in presenting biology through writing and speaking, formulating a critical method of evaluating and discussing biology. In addition, this seminar will be coordinated with the department’s outcome assessment.

The goal of this course is to introduce students to the basic principles of virology including genome organization, virus structure, gene expression and replication strategies, virus-host cell interactions and the molecular basis of pathogenesis. All important human viruses will be discussed, including papilloma, herpes, smallpox, polio, measles, West Nile, HIV, influenza, SARS, and hepatitis viruses. Three-hour lecture.

Fundamental principles. Aspects of production and selection of microbial mutants. Classic mechanisms of microbial recombination including transformation, transduction, and conjugation and recombinant DNA technology as it relates to microorganisms. Three-hour lecture. Prerequisite: BIOL 3411.