Biology (BIO)

BIO-101. Survey of Biology for Non-Majors. (4 Credits)

This one-semester introductory course for non-science majors is designed to fulfill the general education requirement for life science with a laboratory. This is a survey of biology course that covers cell and molecular biology, genetics and heredity, diversity, evolution, ecology and sustainability. Emphasis will be placed on the major themes of evolution, structure and function, information flow, energy transformation, and the interconnections within systems. This course contains a laboratory component which will involve the biological concepts discussed in the lecture. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-103. Germs: Good, Bad and Necessary. (3 Credits)

This course is a non-majors biology course designed to fulfill the general education for life science with no lab requirement. Microbes are the invisible engines that drive countless processes in our world, from shaping ecosystems to influencing human health, industry and society. In this course, " Germs: Good, Bad, and Necessary" students will explore the profound interactions between microorganisms and human society. This is a lecture only course, does not contain a laboratory component. (3 contact hours)

BIO-104. Biology of Human Life. (4 Credits)

This general education non-majors biology course emphasizes scientific inquiry through a breadth of selected concepts using humans as the study organism. Concepts include cell and molecular biology, human structure and function, human genetics and heredity, evolution, ecology and sustainability. Biological issues with personal and social implications will be clearly integrated through the course and may include human health and applications of technology. This course contains a laboratory component. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-105. Human Genetics. (3 Credits)

This course is a survey course that introduces students to the laws of human genetics, evolution, genetic diseases, and the latest biotechnology discoveries. Biological issues with personal, social, and moral societal implications will be integrated throughout the course. This course is a non-majors biology course designed to fulfill the general education for life science with no lab requirement. (3 contact hours)

BIO-111. General Biology I. (4 Credits)

Scientific methods, biochemistry, cellular biology, cellular reproduction, classical and molecular genetics are covered with an emphasis on processes. This course includes a laboratory component. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-112. General Biology II. (4 Credits)

Structure and function of the major systems of animals, plants, fungi, protista and bacteria are covered. Origin of life, ecology, classification and evolution are also studied. Animal dissection is included. Note: BIO 111 is recommended prior to taking this course. This course includes a laboratory component. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-115. Anatomy and Physiology. (5 Credits)

This is a one-semester survey course of anatomy and physiology of the human body. All of the major body systems are covered in this course. The course is designed primarily for students in programs that require only a one-semester survey course in anatomy and physiology. Examples of applicable programs include health information technology, medical assistant, sleep technology, recreation therapy, and fitness trainer. This course will not satisfy the anatomy and physiology requirements for programs in nursing, radiologic technology, or respiratory therapy. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-119. Introductory Microbiology. (4 Credits)

This course introduces microbial life, including morphology, staining, genetics, physiology and biochemistry of bacteria, archaea, fungi, protozoa, algae and helminthes. Medical significance of these organisms is covered, as is the significance of viruses, prions and viroids. It is strongly recommended that students select one of the following courses prior to taking this course: BIO-111, CHM-111, or CHM-131. This course includes a laboratory component. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-180. Human Anatomy & Physiology I. (4 Credits)

The first course of a two-course sequence, this course presents an integrated approach to structure and function of the human body. Laboratory time is allocated to working with the human cadaver and other mammalian specimens. Models, prepared slides, and physiological experiments, including instrumentation, are also part of the laboratory learning experience. Emphasizes normal microanatomy and physiological principles of human cells, tissues, skeletal elements, and the musculature, and nervous systems. It is recommended that students complete BIO-111 or BIO-115 prior to taking this course. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-181. Human Anatomy & Physiology II. (4 Credits)

The second of a two course sequence, this course covers the structure and function of humans as related to the endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, and urinary systems; homeostatic mechanisms; human embryology and reproduction; electrolyte balance; and stress physiology. Laboratory time is allocated to working with the human cadaver and other mammalian specimens. Models, prepared slides, and physiological experiments, including instrumentation, are also part of the laboratory learning experience. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-185. Human Anatomy Cadaver Dissection. (4 Credits)

This course provides students with a unique opportunity to gain a better understanding of the structure of the human body through student dissection of a human cadaver, observation of anatomical models, lectures, guided review sessions and self-directed learning. Emphasis is on the normal anatomy of the skeletal system, muscular system, nervous system, endocrine system, circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system, and the urogenital systems. Practical for all students in medical and allied health fields desiring knowledge of the human body. (6 contact hours)

BIO-211. Zoology I. (4 Credits)

Study of the natural history, morphology and physiology of invertebrate animals. Emphasizes midwestern forms, including distribution, feeding habits, reproduction, economic importance, and classification. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-212. Vertebrate Zoology. (4 Credits)

This course covers the structure and function of animal systems and their evolutionary relationships. Examines taxonomy, ecology, behavior, and distribution of representative animals. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-215. Physiology of Health & Disease. (3 Credits)

This course includes functional interrelationships between body systems in health and disease. Emphasizes application of physiological concepts in problem solving. (3 contact hours)

BIO-220. Ecology & Field Biology. (4 Credits)

This course introduces general ecology. Includes field approach of measuring environmental factors in order to understand the ecosystem concept. Interrelationships of organisms, including humans and their environment, are explored. Field work and field trips are included. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-221. Introduction to Marine Biology. (4 Credits)

This course focuses on the biology and ecology of marine ecosystems and oceanography. The biological, chemical, physical, and geographical factors of marine ecosystems are explored, including the inter-tidal zones, sandy and rocky shores, the ocean floor, seagrass, mangroves, coral reefs, open ocean, and the abyss. A survey of the biodiversity of marine organisms includes algae, plankton, invertabrates, reptiles, birds, fishes, and mammals. Behavioral characteristics of unique species are discussed. The impact of humans on the marine environment, conservation, and management are highlighted. Research, laboratory, and field techniques are emphasized. Field work and field trips are included. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-230. Botany. (4 Credits)

Lecture and lab illustrate the diversity of simple and complex plants. Covers the structure of roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits; physiology of growth and response to environmental factors; and local plant ecology stressing community types, biomes and succession. Fee is required. (6 contact hours)

BIO-240. Biology Research. (2 Credits)

This course provides undergraduate research experience. Students will actively participate in selecting and planning a research experience, read and critique scientific articles related to research interests, and write a scientific paper to describe and document the research. Students will be expected to work independently with guidance from faculty. It is strongly recommended that students first complete a college-level general biology course. Students must propose their independent research project to the instructor to gain consent for enrollment. Fee is required. (2 contact hours)