2004-05 Undergraduate Catalog
Indiana, Pennsylvania 15705
Biology (BIOL)
Department of Biology
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Credit designation below each title is expressed in (c) class hours per week, (l) lab or (d) discussion section hours per week, and (cr) credits per semester.
| BIOL 483 Honors Thesis/Independent Study | |
| BIOL 484 Honors Seminar | |
| BIOL 271 Evolution | |
c-2l-4cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors only
A basic introduction to ecology, biochemistry, and cell biology, genetics, and
evolution.
3c-2l-4cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 103, non-Biology majors only
A basic introduction to plant and animal physiology, neurobiology, animal
behavior, and plant and animal reproduction and development.
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors only
Introduces concepts and applications for understanding human biological function
from the point of view of cellular biology.
BIOL 111 Principles of Biology I
3c-3l-4cr
Prerequisite: Must be taken after or concurrent with
CHEM 111
Introduces the student to principles of biology, specifically in the topics of
cell structure and function, genetics, and physiology. Develops skills in the
use of the scientific method. Designed for biology majors.
BIOL 112 Principles of Biology II
3c-3l-4cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 111
Introduces the principles of biology, specifically in the topics of
reproduction, development, evolution, ecology, and animal behavior. Develops
skill in the use of the scientific method. Designed for biology majors.
BIOL 113 Genetics in Modern Society
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors and non-Biology minors only
Intended primarily to provide the student with an appreciation and comprehension
of the field of genetics as it applies to the human condition. Introduces the
topic of human heredity as a means to understand genetic disorders, genetic
therapies, and alternative reproductive strategies. Provides an introductory
background of the field of genetics and current biotechnology related to
genetics, which is suitable for nonmajors. Using this background, the student is
presented with the most recent events in the field of human genetics and its
effect on society.
BIOL 114 Environmental Science
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors only
An introduction to environmental science with an emphasis on human impacts. Uses
an interdisciplinary approach to the consideration of population growth,
pollution, preservation of species, and establishment of public policy. Students
learn basic principles in ecology as the basis for understanding problems of the
environment.
BIOL 115 Biotic Diversity of North America
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors and non-Biology minors only
An introduction to the biological diversity of North America from Barrow,
Alaska, to Tehuantepec, Mexico. All major aquatic and terrestrial biomes
occurring in North America are examined with regard to plant forms, animal
composition, and environmental (abiotic) conditions.
BIOL 116 Introduction to Marine Biology
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology and non-Biology Education majors and
non-Biology minors only
An introduction to the world of marine biology. Include a discussion of the
major groups of plants and animals found in the marine environment and a
discussion of the major communities that make up the oceans of the world.
BIOL 117 Understanding HIV Biology and AIDS
3c-0l-3cr
An introduction to the AIDS virus in which the mode of infection, transmission,
and prevention will be used as an illustration of biological principles.
Profiles biological indicators for HIV disease and its progression to AIDS.
Therapeutic and nontherapeutic approaches to treat HIV infections are
emphasized.
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors, non-Biology Education majors, and
non-Biology minors only
Despite its many individual, social, and cultural characteristics, pain is based
on an anatomical and physiological foundation. Looks at the history of
scientific theories and hypotheses about understanding the pain mechanism.
Through this type of study, students learn about the status of pain in various
societies throughout the ages.
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors and non-Biology minors only
Intended primarily to provide t an understanding of the biological basis of
infectious diseases and the social, historical, and ethical consequences of
these types of afflictions. Covers background material such as the germ theory
of disease and the cell theory at an introductory level. Includes specific cases
of emerging or reemerging infectious diseases with emphasis on current events
relating to disease outbreaks.
BIOL 123 Perspectives in Cell and Molecular Biology
1c-0l-1cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 111
Designed for those interested in entering the Cell and Molecular Biology Track.
Introduces the latest advances in the fields of molecular biology and
biotechnology, as well as the career possibilities and professional
responsibilities in these fields. Designed to aid students in clarifying career
goals and introduce them to the literature of molecular biology, including
electronic resources. Includes field trips that might take place on weekends.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors only
A study of the functional systematic anatomy of the human. Lab studies center on
nonhuman mammals whose anatomy is then related to the human condition.
3c-2l-4cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 103, or
105,
111, or
HPED 221, or instructor
permission. Non-Biology majors and controlled elective for Biology majors
The study of the mechanisms but with the human organism functions. Mechanisms
covered range from the molecular/subcellular to the tissue, organ, and organism
levels. Organ systems examined include the nervous, muscular, cardiovascular,
respiratory, endocrine, renal, digestive, and reproductive. Emphasizes three
major themes: (1) that organ functions are dependent upon the underlying
molecular and cellular processes, (2) that all organ systems utilize biological
control systems to maintain organ homeostasis, and (3) that each organ function
is closely controlled and dependent upon the interaction/integration with
functions from other organ systems.
BIOL 155 Human Physiology and Anatomy
3c-3l-4cr
Prerequisite: Non-Biology majors only (Food and Nutrition, Dietetics,
Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Physical Education, and Safety Sciences
majors)
A study of structure and function of the human body. Emphasizes normal function,
with particular attention to functional anatomy, control mechanisms, and
interrelationships among systems. Laboratory studies include experimentation and
dissection. For students with little or no science background.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 111-112
or instructor permission
A survey of the major plant groups, their physiology, structure, life cycles,
evolution and ecology, and economic roles of plants. Combined
lecture-laboratory.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 111-112
or instructor permission
An examination of the evolution, form, and function of all major animal phyla,
from sponges through chordates. Interactive lecture-laboratory sessions follow a
phylogenetic approach to the Animal Kingdom and incorporate essentials of animal
ecology, physiology, functional morphology, and behavior.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites: Non-Biology majors only (Environmental Health Science,
Nursing, and Respiratory Therapy majors),
BIOL 105,
CHEM 101, or equivalent
A study of microorganisms and the role they play in water, soil, food, and
infection. Microbes and disease are emphasized. Standard methods and techniques
are emphasized in laboratory.
BIOL 242 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 220
An investigation of the comparative structure and function of the vertebrate
body emphasizing the diverse solutions to the problem of design for survival and
the evolutionary mechanisms that provide those solutions. Meets twice per week
for two and one-half hours. Each meeting includes both lecture and laboratory
experiences.
BIOL 250 Principles of Microbiology
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 111-112
or instructor permission
A study of the structure, nutrition, and biochemical activities of microbes. A
survey of viruses, blue-green bacteria, bacteria, algae, fungi, and protozoa and
their diversity in natural environments. Designed for Biology and Biology
Education majors.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 210
The collection, preservation, identification, and distribution of selected
herbaceous and woody plants of Western Pennsylvania. Emphasizes taxonomic
principles, the use of keys and manuals, and the recognition of local flora.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 220
Field natural history of vertebrates; identification, collection, and
preservation techniques.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 111-112
or 103-104
A study of birds of the region. Indoor laboratory as well as early morning and
possibly weekend field trips required.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 220
Morphology, anatomy, ecology, taxonomy, and economic and public health
importance of insect orders, particularly those of Western Pennsylvania; student
collection and field trips required.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 111
Deals with the distribution and function of the hereditary material; special
emphasis on microbial, viral, and molecular genetics.
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 111-112
or 103-104,
263
Historical development of evolutionary thought; evidence and operational
mechanisms involved; origin and phylogenetic relationships of biological groups.
BIOL 272 Conservation of Plant and Animal Resources
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 111-112
or 103-104
A study of accepted practices in soil, water, forest, and wildlife conservation.
Saturday field trips.
var-1-3cr
Prerequisite: As appropriate to course content
Offered on an experimental or temporary basis to explore topics not included in
the established curriculum. A given topic may be offered under any special topic
identity no more than three times. Special topics numbered 281 are offered
primarily for lower-level undergraduate students.
BIOL 310 Applied Entomology and Zoonoses
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 220 or permission
A study of the measures for abatement or control of arthropods, rodents, birds,
and other disease vectors of public importance; selection, chemistry,
formulation, and safe application of insecticides, rodenticides, and fumigants;
pesticiding equipment; application of biological and other measures of control.
(Also offered as ENVH 310; may not be taken for duplicate credit)
BIOL 323 Introduction to Toxicology and Risk Assessment
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 104 or
112;
CHEM 102 or
112; or permission
A study of uptake, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of environmental
chemicals; mechanisms of their toxicity; and their effects on major organ
systems. Knowledge of these topics is applied to risk assessment procedures.
(Also offered as
ENVH 323; may not be taken for
duplicate credit)
BIOL 331 Animal Developmental Biology
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 220 or permission
Comparative and molecular development of vertebrate animals are the major
considerations. General principles of development are illustrated using
vertebrate, invertebrate, and plant materials.
BIOL 352 Comparative Animal Physiology
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 220,
CHEM 231
A comparative study of homeostatic mechanisms and systems in animals and their
relation to fundamental chemical and physical events in cells.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 111-112
, 210
or 220
A study of interrelations and adaptations of organisms; includes consideration
of physical and biotic environmental factors. Field trips.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 250 or permission
A study of disease caused by microorganisms with an emphasis on human pathogens.
Both epidemiology and aspects of host-parasite relationships are discussed. Lab
stresses methods of isolation and identification of pathogens.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 250,
CHEM 232, or permission
Physical and chemical properties of antigens and antibodies; nature of
antigen-antibody interactions; mechanism of antibody formation; and immune
reaction and disease. Lab employs serological techniques.
BIOL 401 Laboratory Methods in Biology and Biotechnology
2c-4l-3cr
Prerequisite:
CHEM 351
Theory and practice in a number of major analytical and preparative techniques currently in use in physiology, molecular biology, and biotechnology.
BIOL 410 Molecular Biology Topics
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 263 or
BIOC 301 or
CHEM 351
Involves the study of biological phenomena in molecular terms. Focuses on
recombinant DNA principles as they relate to prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
Emphasizes the modern methods used in recombinant DNA technology.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 220
A comprehensive survey of the classes Amphibia and Reptilia, including their
classification, structure, origin, evolution, phylogenetic relationships,
distribution, and natural history. Special emphasis is on the herpetofauna of
Pennsylvania.
BIOL 450 Pymatuning: Field Studies
var-3cr
During the summer session, various field courses are offered through the
Pymatuning Laboratory of Ecology. The offerings vary depending on the summer.
Some of the possible offerings include Experimental Design, Fish Ecology,
Behavioral Ecology, Aquatic Botany, and Ecological Genetics. Information
regarding specific offerings is available from the Biology Department in the
spring.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 210,
CHEM 231
Studies physiological processes occurring in plants considered in relation to
growth, development, and ecology of plants.
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 220 or permission
The biological study of animal behavior. Topics include the mechanisms,
development, ecology, and evolution of behavior.
BIOL 460 Fundamentals of Environmental Epidemiology
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 104 or
112;
MATH 216 or
217; or instructor permission
A study of the health consequences of involuntary exposure to harmful chemical
and biological agents in the general environment. Disease etiology, occurrence,
and intervention in human populations are examined through epidemiologic study
using analytical methods and applications. (Also offered as
ENVH 460; may not be taken for
duplicate credit)
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 362
An investigation into the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of inland
waters and their interrelationships. In the laboratory the student gains
experience in the techniques involved in aquatic sampling and the analysis of
data. (Saturday or Sunday labs may be required.)
BIOL 466 Principles of Virology
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 263 or equivalent course in
Genetics, or
CHEM 351 or equivalent course in
Biochemistry, or instructor permission
Topics include structure, classification, assay, and transmission of viruses;
methods used in the study of viruses; viral replication, gene expression, and
gene regulation; host-viral interactions and subviral pathogens.
BIOL 471 Dendrology of the Eastern U.S.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 210 or instructor permission
A comprehensive survey of the tree species in the eastern portion of North
America with an emphasis on Pennsylvania forests.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 220
A general discussion of mammals emphasizing systematics, distribution, and
structural and functional modifications related to evolution of this group. Lab
work samples numerous techniques that can be applied to mammalian biology.
2c-3l-3cr
Prerequisite:
BIOL 220
Structure, physiology, ecology, life cycles, pathology, and treatment of
parasitic protozoa and flatworm and roundworm species of man. Dissection of
hosts for parasites.
3c-0l-3cr
Prerequisites:
BIOL 111 or
105,
or 151,
or
PSYC 350 or instructor permission
Presents the underlying mechanisms through which the nervous system mediates
behavior, from the molecular to the organismal level. Emphasizes two major
themes: (1) the roles of synapses and neuronal excitability in shaping the
input/output functions of neurons and neuronal networks and (2) the role of
neuronal development and neuronal experience upon resultant neuronal
organization.
1c-0l-1cr
A discussion of recent trends in biological thought and research. Students
report on assigned readings and/or personal research.
var-1-3cr
Prerequisite: As appropriate to course content
Course varies from semester to semester covering diverse topics in specific
areas of biology.
var-1-3cr
Prerequisites: Prior approval through advisor, faculty member, department
chairperson, dean, and Provost’s Office. A 2.5 cumulative GPA and in major
courses required.
Students with interest in independent study of a topic not offered in the
curriculum may propose a plan of study in conjunction with a faculty member.
Approval is based on academic appropriateness and availability of resources.
Work is supervised by a faculty member but does not involve regular class or
laboratory hours.
BIOL 483 Honors Thesis/Independent Study
var-1-6cr
Prerequisites: Admission to departmental honors program; prior approval
through advisor, faculty member, department chairperson, dean, and Provost’s
Office
An intensive, focused study involving independent research culminating in a
written thesis approved by a thesis director and two faculty readers/committee
members. May be taken more than once to a maximum of 6sh.
2c-0l-2cr
Prerequisite: Admission to the Biology Honors Program
Selected topics in biology. Use of the literature in preparation for advanced
coursework and
BIOL 483. Analyzes the
literature, develops a literature review, and develops a thesis proposal. Guest
speakers will provide additional exposure to major areas of biology.
var-3-12cr
Prerequisites: Biology major with at least 57cr, 2.5 cumulative GPA, and
permission of the director of internships and the chairperson
Selected students have opportunity, under department supervision, to gain
off-campus practical experience in area of interest. Only 6cr may be applied
toward major; total number of credits is decided in consultation involving
student, his/her advisor, and director of internships.
Table of Contents |
Catalog Index
| Course Index