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.

Offered fall semester.

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.

Offered fall semester. Concurrent registration in B111 is required.

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.

Offered fall semester. Concurrent registration in B110 is required.

Emphasis is placed on plant and animal phyla, organs and organ systems of both plants and animals. Three lecture/discussion periods are held weekly.

Offered spring semester. Concurrent registration in B121 is required.

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. Offered spring semester.

Concurrent registration in B120 is required.

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.

Offered fall semester and in alternate spring semesters. Concurrent registration in B201 is required.

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.

Offered fall semester and in alternate spring semesters. Concurrent registration in B200 is required.

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.

Please contact the department chair for more information.

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.

Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.

This course explores the design and structure of the human body. Lectures present cellular and histological features of the body systems. Laboratory dissections explore gross anatomic features and the three dimensional relationships of structures particularly relevant to the health sciences. Body structures forming superficial features, those visualized by diagnostic imaging techniques and those relevant to kinesiology are empathized. The class meets for two lectures sessions and two two-hour labs weekly.

Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.

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.

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.

Offered spring semester. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.

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.

Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and C321 (C321 may be concurrent).

This course explores the functions of the body systems of humans. The interrelationships of organ-systems processes to maintain homeostasis are emphasized. Laboratory sessions provide experiences with procedures and instrumentation to gather data that highlight the function of the body systems. Course topics are particularly relevant to the health sciences. The class meets for three lectures and one three-hour lab weekly.

Offered spring semester. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121. Recommended: C142/144.

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.

Offered spring semester.

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.

Offered in alternate spring semesters. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and B310.

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.

Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121 and B301.

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.

Offered spring semester. Prerequisite: B301.

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. The course meets for three lectures weekly.

Offered spring semester.

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. Prerequisite: B301.

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.

Offered in alternate fall semesters. Prerequisite: B301.

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.

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.

Offered in alternate fall semesters.

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.

Offered in alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite: B301.

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.

Offered in alternate fall semesters. Prerequisite: B340.

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 is not granted for this course and any of the following: BU215, ST132, ST232.

The principal 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.

Offered spring semester. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, C321, and C322 (C322 may be concurrent with consent of instructor).

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.

Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, B310, B311 and C321 (B311 and C321 may be concurrent with consent of instructor). Also offered as C412.

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.

Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and C321.

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.

Offered spring semester. Recommended: B310, B311, B412. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and C321.

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.

Offered fall semester. B310 is strongly recommended. Prerequisites: B110/111 and B120/121.

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.

Offered spring semester. Prerequisites: a course in ecology and junior or senior standing.

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. The course meets once per week.

Offered spring semester. Prerequisites: a course in ecology and junior or senior standing required.

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.

Offered in alternate fall semesters. Prerequisite: a course in ecology or instructor’s consent.

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.

Offered in alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite: a course in ecology or instructor’s consent.

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.

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.

Offered spring semester. Prerequisites: B310.

Concepts and/or current issues in biology are presented. The topic changes each time it is offered.

Prerequisite: consent of instructor.

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.

Offered in alternate fall semesters. Prerequisite: B340.

This course is an introduction to wildlife ecology with emphasis on techniques, population dynamics, recreational and commercial value. Wildlife management techniques are also be introduced through study of case histories of selected species. Two hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory/field trip each week.

Offered in alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite: B301.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This internship is an intensive 9-12 month involvement at an approved and accredited school of cytogenetics, cytotechnology, medical technology, or nuclear medicine technology.