BIOL - Biology (BIOL)

This introductory course provides a comprehensive overview of fundamental biological principles. It is intended for students seeking a foundational understanding of the living world. The curriculum encompasses key topics such as the chemistry of life, cellular structure and function, metabolic processes and energy transformation, genetics, human body systems and physiology, as well as the principles of scientific inquiry and analytical methodologies.

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

Human Anatomy and Physiology I is the first of a two-semester series that introduces the structure and function of the human body through molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ system levels. Elements of structure as a basis for understanding function of major body systems include the topics of: basic chemistry, basic cell biology, tissues, skeletal system, muscular system, blood, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and immune system. Emphasis on the regulation of body processes to maintain homeostasis/wellbeing in the face of changing environment or disease challenge. Not for Biology majors.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I Lab is the associated lab course for BIOL 1122 lecture. Students engage in various activities relating to topics covered in BIOL 1122. These include: use of anatomical terms, analysis of anatomical models, dissection of fresh and preserved specimen. Not for Biology majors. Lab fee $40. 2.5 hours/week.

Human Anatomy and Physiology II is part II of the two-semester series that studies the structure and function of the human body extending from the molecular components of cells and tissues to organs and organ systems. BIOL 1133 lecture and co-requisite BIOL 1134 lab courses cover topics such as the nervous system, endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, metabolism, urinary system, acid base balance, and reproductive systems. Emphasis on the regulation of body processes to maintain homeostasis/wellbeing in the face of changing environment or disease challenge. Not for Biology majors.

Human Anatomy and Physiology II Lab is the associated lab course for BIOL 1133 lecture. Students engage in various activities relating to topics covered in BIOL 1133. These include: use of anatomical terms, analysis of anatomical models, dissection of fresh or preserved specimen. Not for Biology majors. Lab fee $40. 2.5 hours/week.

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. Pre or Co-Requisites: BIOL1212 & MATH 1015 or higher

The General Biology—Organisms lab course introduces students to important laboratory practices and techniques in biology. Students will gain practical experience with fundamental laboratory safety measures, basic biological techniques, and scientific research methodologies. The curriculum includes a survey of various living organisms, from unicellular to multicellular forms, as well as an in-depth examination of the structure and function of different 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. Pre-Requisites: BIOL1211, BIOL1212 & MATH1015 or higher; Pre or Co-Requisite: BIOL1223

Introductions to the molecular and cellular basis of life forms, the structures and functions of biologically important molecules, and genetics. Multiple basic laboratory techniques are practiced including solution handling and dilutions, spectrometry, biuret assay, dialysis, slide preparation and microscopy, centrifugation, chromatography. Activities provide student engagement with fundamentals such as diffusion and permeability, molecular models, enzyme function and inhibition, protein isolation and determinations of concentration, classical genetics. This course is proficiency-infused for numeracy. Lab fee $40. 2.5 hours/week

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. Pre-Requisites: BIOL1122, BIOL1123; BIOL1133, BIOL1134; Pre or Co-Requisite: BIOL2142

This laboratory course uses an experiential learning model to provide students with hands-on experience in fundamental microbiological techniques and an opportunity to apply microbiology tools to address the rising clinical threat of antibiotic resistance. Students will isolate and characterize antibiotic-producing microorganisms from environmental samples, perform biochemical and molecular identification assays, and assess microbial interactions relevant to antibiotic production. Key techniques include aseptic technique, microbial culturing, serial dilution, differential and selective media, staining and microscopy, biochemical testing, PCR, and DNA sequence analysis. Emphasis is placed on experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.

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. Pre-Requisites: BIOL1211, BIOL1212; BIOL1222, BIOL1223; Pre or Co-Requisite: BIOL2222

Laboratory experiments illustrate principles of genetics using various organisms. Students will gain an introduction to statistics and computers as applied to genetics. The laboratory course will incorporate concepts from the lecture (BIOL2221) including fundamental principles of classic and molecular genetics, simple inheritance patterns, cytogenetics, DNA replication, protein synthesis, regulatory mechanisms, genetic engineering, and behavioral 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. Pre-Requisites: BIOL2221 & BIOL2222; Pre or Co-Requisite: BIOL2239

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. Pre-Requisites: BIOL2221 & BIOL2222; Pre or Co-Requisite: BIOL2238

This course is an in-depth exploration of the role racism plays in human biology and health. The mechanisms by which racism-related stress, stemming from structural, interpersonal, and intrapersonal racism, affect the physiology of human organ systems will be discussed. Disparities in pathologies such as kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, maternal mortality and other adverse birth outcomes, obesity, COVID-19, cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and stroke will be considered. Racial/ethnic groups including Black or African American, Asian, Hispanic, American Indian or Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander will be considered.

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.

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.

Anatomy and Physiology I is part I of the two-semester series that studies the structure and function of the human body extending from the molecular components of cells and tissues to organs and organ systems. BIOL 3334 lecture and co-requisite BIOL 3335 lab courses include histology, the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, blood & cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and immune system. These courses are designed for BIOT (PT Track), BIOP (PA Track), BIOZ (AT Track) dual degree programs specifically. Biology majors who are not in a PT/PA/AT dual degree program need permission from the instructor to take these courses. For biology majors who have already taken BIOL 3321, only BIOL 3334 & 3335, but NOT BIOL 3336 & 3337, would accepted as biology elective; as such BIOL 3336 & 3337 would be accepted as a general elective only.

Anatomy and Physiology I Lab is the associated lab course for BIOL 3334. Students engage in various activities relating to topics covered in BIOL 3334. These include: use of anatomical terms, analysis of anatomical models, dissection of fresh and preserved specimen. This course is designed for BIOT (PT Track), BIOP (PA Track), BIOZ (AT Track) dual degree programs specifically. Biology majors who are not in a PT/PA/AT dual degree program need permission from the instructor to take this course. For biology majors who have already taken BIOL 3321, only BIOL 3334 & 3335, but NOT BIOL 3336 & 3337, would accepted as biology elective; as such BIOL 3336 & 3337 would be accepted as a general elective only. Lab fee $40. 2.5 hours/week

Anatomy and Physiology II is part II of the two-semester series that studies the structure and function of the human body extending from the molecular components of cells and tissues to organs and organ systems. BIOL 3336 lecture and co-requisite BIOL 3337 lab courses cover topics such as the nervous system, endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, metabolism, urinary system, acid base balance, and reproductive systems. 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 dual degree program 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, would be accepted as biology elective; as such, BIOL 3336 & 3337 would be accepted as general elective only.

Anatomy and Physiology II Lab is the associated lab course for BIOL 3336 lecture. Students engage in various activities relating to topics covered in BIOL 3336. These include: excitable membranes, signal transduction pathways, analysis of anatomical models, dissections of specimen. This course is designed for BIOT (PT Track), BIOP (PA Track), BIOZ (AT Track) dual degree programs specifically. Biology majors who are not in a PT/PA/AT dual degree program need permission from the instructor to take this course. For biology majors who have already taken BIOL 3321, only BIOL 3334 & 3335, but NOT BIOL 3336 & 3337, would accepted as biology elective; as such BIOL 3336 & 3337 would be accepted as a general elective only. Lab fee $40. 2.5 hours/week

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 focuses on the fundamental biology of cancer including its molecular basis, phenotypic characteristics, genetics, pathogenesis, treatment and epidemiology. Major topics to be discussed are growth factors and mitogenic pathways, oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, immortalization, maintenance and repair of the genome, multi-step tumorigenesis, heterotypic cellular interactions, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, immune-oncology, and treatment. Students will learn the biology of cancer as it develops by mutation to the wild-type cellular and molecular processes of the cell.

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.

This course is designed to give students insights how microbes cause infectious diseases. Specific topics will be discussed to demonstrate the importance of emerging diseases and how these diseases are affected by the religion, culture, environment, human development, health and social issues. Topics will include studies of bacterial, viral, protozoan and prion diseases that cause epidemics or pandemics.

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.