B105 Environmental Biology 3 credits
The human position in the biological world and responsibility for living in reasonable harmony with the environs is the focus of this course. Beginning with an overview of major ecological principles governing all ecosystems, consideration is then given to such problems as population expansion, natural resources, pollution, conservation and environmental health. The class meets for two lecture sessions and one two-hour laboratory investigation or field trip each week.
B110 Botany and Zoology I 3 credits
Emphasis is placed upon photosynthesis and respiration, and physiological processes including nutrition, gas exchange, transportation and regulation of body fluids. It is an investigation of the structure and function of both plants and animals and intended as an introductory overview. Three lecture/discussion periods are held weekly. Concurrent registration in B111 is required.
B111 Botany and Zoology I Laboratory 1 credit
These laboratory studies complement the concepts presented in B110. Investigations including physiological and molecular relationships and interactions are the basis for the course. The lab meets for one three-hour session each week. Concurrent registration in B110 is required.
B120 Botany and Zoology II 3 credits
Emphasis is placed on plant and animal phyla, organs and organ systems of both plants and animals. Three lecture/discussion periods are held weekly. Concurrent registration in B121 is required.
B121 Botany and Zoology II Laboratory 1 credit
Laboratory studies complementing B120 include plant and animal hormones and reproduction, bacterial techniques, and phylogenetic investigations. The lab meets for one three-hour session each week. Concurrent registration in B120 is required.
B200 Human Biology 2 credits
This course is designed for the student with little science in their backgrounds. Basic human biological principles are investigated with emphasis on nutrition, cancer, immunity, reproduction and heredity. Special consideration is given to current advances in medicine and associated bio-social issues. Two lectures are held each week. Concurrent registration in B201 is required.
B201 Human Biology Laboratory 1 credit
These laboratory sessions are designed to reinforce concepts presented in B200. Emphasis is given to study on the digestive, immune, excretory, circulatory, and reproductive systems. The lab meets two hours once a week. Concurrent registration in B200 is required.
B210 Current Scientific Issues 3 credits
This course addresses current scientific issues of interest to the general public, ranging from modern medical advances to those affecting the environment. Stress is placed not only on the concepts involved, but also on the social, ethical, political, and economic aspects of these issues. The course is intended for non-science majors.
B301 Ecology 4 credits
A study of the theoretical and practical ecological concepts pertaining to species, populations, communities and ecosystems; stress is placed on the concepts of energy flow, nutrient cycles, limiting factors, population dynamics and succession. Laboratories include both theoretical and practical applications of concepts as well as some plant and animal identifications. Three class meetings and one three-hour laboratory/field trip each week. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.
B305 Human Anatomy 4 credits
This course studies the structure of the human body from the cellular level through the skeletal-muscular, circulatory, respiratory, neuroendocrine, digestive, and excretory systems. The laboratory experiences emphasize basic gross anatomy and its functional relationships. This course is designed to meet the requirement of allied health programs and provide an elective for interested students. Two class periods and two two-hour labs each week. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.
B306 Medical Terminology 2 credits
This course is an organ systems approach to learning and understanding medical terms. A word-building programmed learning format is utilized to understand Latin and Greek prefixes and root words from which our English medical words originate. Common medical abbreviations and case studies are also incorporated into the course. The class meets for two discussion periods weekly.
B310 Genetics 4 credits
The principles underlying hereditary variation in living organisms are the focus of this course. These topics are centered about the transmission of hereditary traits, cytogenetics, basic gene concepts, introductory molecular biology, population genetics, and the genetic basis of evolution. Three class meetings and one three-hour laboratory period each week with several laboratory periods replaced with a one-hour lecture/discussion. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.
B311 Cell Biology 3 credits
This course is a study of the cell at the ultrastructural, biochemical, and physiological levels. Special consideration is given to respiration, photosynthesis, secretion, cytoskeleton, cell cycle, cell growth, movement, membranes, and other organelles. Two lectures and one three-hour lab weekly with two laboratory periods replaced with a one-hour lecture/discussion. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and C321 (C321 may be concurrent).
B312 Molecular Biology 3 credits
An analysis of the regulation of cellular metabolism at the molecular level is the core of this study. The major themes include the biochemistry of DNA, RNA and protein synthesis and the regulation of gene expression in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The laboratory component incorporates genetic engineering techniques. The class meets for two lectures and one three-hour lab weekly. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, B310, B311 and C321 (B311 and C321 may be concurrent).
B313 Physiology 4 credits
The basic functioning of the human body is studied in this course emphasizing interrelationships of the physiological processes within the whole organism on the organ-systems level. The course is designed to meet the requirements for biology majors. The lab includes an introduction to physiological principles, instrumentation and procedures. Class meets for three lectures and one three-hour lab weekly. Recommended: C142/144. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.
B315 GIS Theory and Applications 2 credits
The first half of this course introduces the basic concepts necessary to an understanding of geographic information systems (GIS) including their purpose, hardware, software, data bases, and applications. Special attention is paid to the concept of map projections, coordinate systems and georeferencing data. The second half introduces and spurs the development of core competencies with the desktop GIA Arcview. Students learn how to conduct queries, undertake simple and complex spatial analyses and develop presentations, incorporating views, charts, and images, among others. Two lecture/mini-laboratory periods per week.
B322 Developmental Biology 3 credits
A study of mostly animal development from genetic and molecular perspectives. A brief account of embryology is followed by gametogenesis, fertilization, embryogenesis, and organogenesis. All topics are covered with emphasis upon differentiation. Class meets weekly for three hours of lecture/discussion. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and B310.
B323 Plant Communities and Taxonomy 3 credits
A course that combines collection and identification of local terrestrial and aquatic plants with a survey and analysis of plant communities. Two lectures and one laboratory period or field trip per week. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.
B340 Limnology 4 credits
Lecture emphasis is placed on physical and chemical principles and their interpretation. Attention is given to taxonomy, adaptations, distributions and abundance of organisms. Lab and field studies emphasize techniques and aquatic environmental assessment. Three hours of lecture/discussions and one three-hour lab/field study weekly. Prerequisite: B301.
B350 Heredity and Society 3 credits
This course is open to non-biology majors only. In-depth coverage and discussion of topics that show how many of the contemporary social problems are related to the basic concepts of heredity. Some of the relevant bio-social problems considered are human reproduction, carcinogens, mutagens, genetic syndromes, chromosome abnormalities, aging, inbreeding, the genetic basis of behavior, genetic engineering, genetic screening, genetic counseling, and bioethics. Meets for three lectures weekly.
B370 International Experience in Field Biology 3 credits
This course involves the study of the ecology of another country. A series of lectures on natural history, ecological communities and environmental issues is followed by a guided study tour to allow students to observe firsthand the landscapes, culture and wildlife of the region. This course is offered in the summer only. A travel fee for the study tour is required. Prerequisites: B301 or consent of instructor.
B371 Ornithology 3 credits
This course examines birds from aspects of ecology, behavior, taxonomy, physiology, and identification. Two one-hour lecture/discussion sessions and one three-hour lab/field trip each week. Prerequisite: B301 or consent of instructor.
B375 Natural History Field Trip 1-2 credits
This course combines lectures and a study tour to examine geological features and ecological communities in a selected region within the continental U.S.A. that is accessible during a 7-10 day trip (e.g., the Ozark Mountains or the Everglades). The class may stay at campgrounds or other rustic accommodations during the trip. A travel fee for the study tour is required. Prerequisites: B301 or consent of instructor.
B380 Earth Science 3 credits
This lecture and lab course introduces students to the Earth’s dynamic systems. An overview of physical geology is first presented. The class then examines specific processes of erosion, transport and deposition and the resultant land forms that are produced. Other geomorphological processes are also discussed. Throughout, emphasis is placed on the inter-relatedness of these processes, and how they may impact and be altered by humans. Two lectures and one three-hour lab per week.
B384 Pollution Ecology 3 credits
This course involves an examination of major pollutants and their sources; ecological, health, and economic effects; and control technology. Class sessions emphasize industry, transportation, agriculture and energy production. Laboratories emphasize monitoring equipment and techniques. Two one-hour lecture/discussion sessions and one three-hour laboratory or field trip per week. Prerequisite: B301 or consent of the instructor.
B385 Freshwater Ecology 3 credits
Advanced studies of the freshwater aquatic ecosystems, both lotic and lentic, are undertaken. Emphasis is placed on ecological adaptations, life histories, and interactions between organisms and their physical environment. Secondary emphasis is placed on aquatic ecosystem production and measurement. Two lectures and one three-hour laboratory each week. Prerequisite: B340.
B392 Biometrics 3 credits
This course introduces basic and fundamental statistics with emphasis on the more sophisticated tests and analyses common to biologists and other researchers. Substantial attention is given to analysis of variance procedures and experimental design. Credit will not be granted for this course and ST132, ST232 or BU215.
B409 Biochemistry 4 credits
The principle concepts of biochemistry are the focus of this course. The major themes include the relationship between the three-dimensional structure of proteins and their biological function and the chemistry and metabolism of biologically important macromolecules including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, C321, and C322 (C322 may be concurrent with consent of instructor).
B434 Microbiology 3 credits
This course deals with the morphology, physiology and biochemistry of a variety of microorganisms including viruses, bacteria, fungi and algae. Emphasis is placed on the control of microbial growth, the characteristics of these organisms and their relationship to disease. Class meets for two lectures and one three-hour lab weekly. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and C321 or consent of instructor.
B435 Immunology 3 credits
Topics covered in this course include the nature of the immune system and the immunological response including the roles of lymphocytes, cytokines, antibodies and complement. Some emphasis is placed on the malfunction and diseases of the immune system. Laboratories emphasize practice of immunological theory and the performance of immunological techniques. Class meets for two lectures and one three hour lab weekly. Recommended: B310, B311, B312. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and C321.
B450 Radiation Biology 3 credits
The effects of radiation, particularly ionizing radiation, on molecules, cells, tissues, and the whole organism are studied. A brief background of the nature, sources and absorption of radioactive energy is presented. Some emphasis is also placed on the understanding and use of modern instrumentation and techniques available for biological research and fluorescence analysis. The class meets for three lectures weekly. B310 is strongly recommended. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.
B460 Sustainable Resource Management 2 credits
A course that examines the causes of environmental problems and the interconnections among environmental issues, with the goal of providing a framework for the search for long term solutions. Two lectures/discussion sessions per week. Prerequisites: a course in ecology and junior or senior standing.
B461 Environmental Seminar 1 credit
A course that permits presentations and discussions of ecological and environmental topics, with an emphasis on the primary literature. In any given semester, the course may be organized around a particular issue or involve consideration of a significant book or other work. One meeting per week. Prerequisites: a course in ecology. Junior or senior standing required.
B465 Herpetology 2 credits
This course provides an introduction to the biology of amphibians and reptiles, with an emphasis on the ecology, distribution, and conservation of the species found in Minnesota and neighboring states. One lecture/discussion period and one lab period per week, with the possibility for some evening or weekend field trips. Prerequisites: a course in ecology or instructor’s consent.
B475 Ichthyology 3 credits
A course on the classification, morphology, physiology, and ecology of fishes. Two lectures and one laboratory period per week. Laboratory activities may include individual student projects and the collection and identification of Midwestern fishes. Prerequisites: a course in ecology or instructor’s consent.
B479 Environmental Toxicology 4 credits
An examination of the principles, methods, and problems of environmental toxicology is presented. Topics include: pollutant dynamics in ecosystems and individuals, dose-effect relationships, sublethal toxicity, interactions between pollutants, ecosystem responses, and others. The laboratory emphasizes professional methods of contaminant analysis and toxicology. Three lecture/discussions and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
B480 Human Genetics 2 credits
All aspects of genetics as they pertain to the human are discussed. These topics include the human genome, inborn errors of metabolism, Mendelian inheritance, human cytogenetics, gene mapping, complex traits, consanguinity, cancer genetics, behavioral genetics, and gene therapy. In every case, connections are made to applications and issues pervading society. Class meets for two lectures/discussions weekly. Prerequisites: B310.
B481–489 Topics in Biology 1–3 credits
Concepts and/or current issues in biology are presented. The topic changes each time it is offered. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
B490 Fisheries Biology 3 credits
An introduction to fisheries biology, this course has a lecture emphasis on population dynamics and lake, pond, and stream fishery management. Attention is given to the recreational and commercial value of freshwater fish species. Lab and field studies emphasize field fish collection techniques, taxonomy, population studies, energetics, and age and growth studies. Two lectures and one three-hour lab/field study weekly. Prerequisite: B340.
B491 Wildlife Ecology and Management 3 credits
This course is an introduction to wildlife ecology with emphasis on techniques, population dynamics, recreational and commercial value. Wildlife management techniques will also be introduced through study of case histories of selected species. Two hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory/field trip each week. Prerequisite: B301 or consent of instructor.
B492 Experimental Planning 1 credit
The purpose of this course is to design a research project. The necessary reconnaissance, review of the literature, and other preparations are included. Some emphasis is also given to thesis writing and presentations.
B493 Biology Research and Thesis 2 credits
The course consists of an independent investigation of a field or laboratory problem of the student’s choice in a specific area of biology. A written report of the research project in the form of a thesis is required; an oral presentation may be required, at the discretion of the research advisor. This course is a graduation requirement for biology majors. Prerequisites: B392 and B492.
B494 Environmental Experience 1–5 credits
This experience is designed for those students who want exposure to the world of post-graduate work, but not to the degree required for an internship. It would consist of a part-time assignment off-campus with an environmental agency. The work experience must be approved by the environmental committee and completed during one semester or one summer.
B495 Clinical Laboratory Procedures 2 credits
Selected students interested in medical technology will participate in the operation of a hospital medical laboratory. The chief technologist and pathologist in residence will supervise the student’s clinical laboratory experience. Students must make arrangements with the director of allied health prior to registration. Offered second semester. Graded pass/no credit.
B496/497 Biology Internship 1–17 credits
This experience is arranged individually for interested students and provides an opportunity for the student to work with/for a public or private entity and become familiar with biologically related aspects of the entity. The biology internship, although flexible, must be a biological learning situation with a final report required. Juniors or seniors are eligible and must have the consent of the department chair.
B498 Allied Health Internship 6–32 credits minimum
This internship is an intensive 9–12 month involvement at an approved and accredited school of cytogenetics, cytotechnology, medical technology, or nuclear medicine technology |
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