Department of Biology
2007-2008
Course Catalog
Continuing Doane's liberal arts tradition, biology students are exposed to the broad array of disciplines within the Biological Sciences. The major begins with introductory courses and allows students to tailor their program to their interests with a wide variety of electives.
Requirements for the Biology Major:
Complete 1 or 2.
1. Complete the following
a. BIO 120, 121, 202, 260, 295, 351 (or CHM 351), 495-496 (or CHM
495-496).
b. One course from each of the following groups plus two additional
courses for a total of five courses. Only one of the five courses
may be a three credit course without a laboratory component. BIO
340 can count in any of the three groups:
1) Organismal: BIO 308, 320, 330, 355, 356
2) Environmental: BIO 342, 345, 350, 353
3) Cell and Molecular: BIO 317, 335, 348, 412, 349
A maximum of four credits of biology directed study at any level
may be counted toward the major.
c. Complete the following cognates:
1) CHM 125, 126.
2) Two additional four-credit courses in Chemistry OR PHY
107 and 108.
3) MTH 107 or 108 or above (MTH 235 is strongly recommended).
d. Pass a departmentally administered comprehensive examination
with a score of at least 60 percent. This examination will be taken
as part of BIO 202 in the sophomore year or not later than the
sixth semester of study. A student who does not achieve a passing
score must pass an oral examination given by two faculty members
in the department.
Partial fulfillment of the major may be arranged through transfer of credit by
successful completion of appropriate courses from an approved professional
school.
2) Students seeking certification for teaching in biology must complete:
a. BIO 120, 121, 260, 348, 295, 351, and 494
b. One course from each of the following groups plus two additional
courses chosen from the group(s) below for a total of five courses.
Only one of the five courses may be a three credit course without
a laboratory component. BIO 340 can count in any of the three
groups:
1) Organismal: BIO 308, 320, 330, 355, 356
2) Environmental: BIO 342, 345, 350, 353
3) Cell and Molecular: BIO 317, 335, 412, 349
The following electives are strongly recommended: BIO 342; 356,
340 (or 308), 320 (or 350), 330.
c. Cognates CHM 125, 126; MTH 107 or 108 or above
(MTH 235 is strongly recommended); NSI 322, 324,
326, and 327; PHY 107; either GEO 101 or 10
d. All requirements listed under the catalog section
Secondary Education.
Requirements for the Biology Subject Endorsement:
Students who are not biology majors and are seeking certification for teachingin biology must complete the following:
1. BIO 120, 121, 260, 340 (or 308), 342, 348, 356.
2. Cognates CHM 125; NSI 322, 324, 326, 327; either GEO 101 or 103;PHY 107.
3. A teaching major.
4. All requirements listed under the catalog section Secondary Education.
Requirements for the Honors Program in Biology:Qualified students are encouraged to apply to the biology faculty for admission
to the biology honors program after the first semester of their sophomore year.
Students participating in the biology honors program must maintain an accumulated
grade point average of 3.00 overall and in the natural sciences. Students in
the honors program must complete the biology major requirements plus:
1. PHY 107, 108 and an additional eight credits of chemistry beyond
125-126
2. MTH 235
3. Two semesters of a single foreign language (minimum of six credits)
4. BIO 498 Honors Course
Requirements for the Biology Minor:
1. Complete the following:
a. BIO 120, 121, 260
b. At least 11 additional credits in biology, excluding BIO 351, 495,
496, and 498.
2. Complete the cognates CHM 125, 126.
Courses offered:
BIO 101 Introduction to Biology (4)
An introductory course in biology for non-majors utilizing the scientific
method in the study of molecular, cellular, organismal, taxonomic, genetic,
ecological, and evolutionary aspects of life. A weekly laboratory experience
emphasizes observation and problem solving. Students completing this course
will understand the basic theories of life and be prepared to critically evaluate
reports of biology research that they encounter as informed citizens.
BIO 120 Introductory Cell Biology (4)
An introductory course in cell biology that presents concepts of cell structure
and function beginning with a review of basic chemistry and molecules of
life. The course will go on to cover concepts related to cell surfaces and
communication, cell reproduction, cell energetics, cytoskeleton and cell
movement, and aspects of gene expression, protein and lipid synthesis and
processing. In the laboratory students will gain skills in problem solving,
experimental design, data collection, analysis and presentation through a
series of student directed laboratory experiments. Students completing this
class will have a solid foundation in basic cell biology and will be prepared to
continue with BIO 121 Organismal Biology. Prerequisite: Intent to major
in Biology. Offered fall term.
BIO 121 Organismal Diversity (4)
An introductory course that will introduce the diversity and structure of
Plants and Animals by examining representative groups, their life history
traits and the form and function of their systems in regards to ecology.
The fundamentals of Ecology will be covered as well. Students completing
this course will have a solid appreciation for the diversity of multicellular
organisms, how they function in their ecological niche and will be prepared
to continue with BIO 260 Genetics. Prerequisite: BIO 120, or permission.
Offered spring term.
BIO 202 Biology Career Seminar (1)
In this seminar, students will identify one or more biology related careers to
investigate. Methods for investigation may include shadowing or interviewing
a professional, writing a personal statement, and developing an academic
program including a timeline for necessary coursework and required preprofessional
examinations. Upon successful completion of this course,
students will understand the pre-requisites of their potential careers and
appreciate the expectations and demands that would be placed on them
in those careers. Students should enroll concurrently in Introduction to
Field Experience (CED 205). Prerequisites: BIO 120, 121, and 260 or
permission. Offered every spring term.
BIO 225 Human Anatomy (4)
This is a non-majors course in human anatomy. Upon successful completion
of this course, students will be able to identify major organs and structures
in body systems. Students will engage in dissection and use of the cadaver to
learn human anatomy. Prerequisite: BIO 101. Offered every fall term.
BIO 226 Human Physiology (4)
This is a non-majors course in human physiology. Upon completion of this
course, students will understand the major function of each organ system and
how each system contributes to homeostasis of the organism. Students will
engage in investigative lab experiments to understand physiological concepts
such as movement across a membrane, reflex arcs, neural conduction, muscle
contraction, electrocardiograms and other cardiovascular measurements, and
urinalysis. Students will apply these concepts to case studies of human disease
and injury. Prerequisite: Biology 101. Offered spring term.
BIO 260 Genetics (4)
Genetics is the study of inheritance – how traits are passed from parents to
offspring. In this course inheritance will be examined in terms of classical
or transmission genetics and also at the molecular level through the study
of structure, function and expression of the DNA molecules themselves in
prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Additional topics will include genomics, genetic
engineering, cloning, gene therapy, population, conservation and evolutionary
genetics. Students completing this course will have a thorough understanding
of classical and molecular genetics concepts, experience with basic genetics
laboratory techniques and be prepared to continue with upper level biology
electives. Prerequisites: BIO 120 or permission. Offered fall term.
BIO 271, 371, 471 Selected Topics (1-3) (1-3) (1-3)
An investigation of topics not offered in other courses, selected on the basis
of student interest and available instruction.
BIO 290, 390, 490 Directed Study (1-3) (1-3) (1-3)
An opportunity for supervised, independent study of a particular topic
based on the interest of the student and the availability and approval of the
faculty.
BIO 295 Biostatistics (3)
An introductory course to the use of statistics and study designs in biology in
preparation for BIO 495/496, Senior Research. Upon successful completion
of this course, students will be able to design experimental, quasi-experimental
and observational studies that will meet regulatory guidelines; collect, analyze,
and interpret data using appropriate statistical tools; and submit their study
for publication. Prerequisite: BIO 120, 121, permission.
BIO 308 Animal Behavior (4)
Questions concerning the behavior of individuals and populations are
explored in a mechanistic and evolutionary context. The relationships of
animal behavior studies to ecology, taxonomy, evolution, and genetics are
investigated, as well as the anatomical and physiological basis of behavior.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will develop an
understanding of the behavior of animals in field and laboratory and will
also become aware of the adaptive significance of behavior. Prerequisite:
BIO 120, 121, permission. Offered alternate fall terms.
BIO 317 Introduction to Immunology (4)
People and other animals, constantly besieged by disease-causing
microorganisms, are more often healthy than ill. This course introduces the
student to the reasons for this relative state of good health: a complex array
of organs (bone marrow, thymus, lymph nodes, etc.), cells (lymphocytes,
macrophages, dendritic cells, etc.), and chemicals (antibodies, lymphokines,
etc.) that constitute the immune system. Upon successful completion of this
course students will understand the structures and functions of the innate
and acquired immune systems, and the implications for health and disease.
Prerequisite: BIO 120, 121, 260. Offered alternate fall terms.
BIO 320 Botany (4)
A survey of three major groups of organisms – algae, fungi and plants – with
an emphasis on life histories, diversity, evolutionary relationships, ecological
significance, economic importance and vascular plant anatomy and physiology.
Upon the completion of this course students will gain an understanding
of the role of plants in the environment, the significance of many of their
adaptations and the diversity of the plant community. Prerequisites: BIO
120, 121, 260. Offered spring term.
BIO 330 Zoology (4)
A survey of the animal kingdom, stressing evolutionary relationships, anatomy,
ecology, special adaptations, and biological significance of the various groups.
Upon successful completion of this course students will have a broad
understanding of the diversity of animal forms and their mechanisms for
survival and evolutionary relationships. Prerequisites: BIO 120, 121, 260.
Offered fall term.
BIO 335 Molecular Biology (4)
This course offers a detailed study of the structure and function of DNA,
RNA, chromatin, transposable elements and repetitive DNA. Upon successful
completion of this course, students will have a thorough understanding of
the molecular events governing the cell cycle, DNA replication, basal and
regulated transcription, transcript processing, translation, post-translational
modification and a variety of diseases that result from disruptions of these
mechanisms. Students will also gain experience with current molecular
biology laboratory techniques. Prerequisites: BIO 120, 121, 260. Offered
alternate spring terms
BIO 34O Evolution (3)
Evolution is the unifying concept in biology. This course will cover the
nature of science, selection process, micro and macro evolution, the
theories surrounding the origins of life, and the evidence in the living and
paleontological records. Students completing this class will be able to
appreciate the breadth and application of evolution to their chosen fields,
understand the mechanisms that drive evolution, understand the diversity of
life and our origins from a common ancestor. Prerequisites: BIO 120, 121,
260. Offered alternate fall terms.
BIO 342 Ecology (4)
Ecology is the study of how individuals cope with their environment, how
populations grow and cycle in the environment and how energy and matter
cycle at the level of the landscape. Upon successful completion of this course,
students will understand the importance of inter and intraspecific competition,
predator prey relationships, coevolutionary interactions such as parasitisms
and mutualisms as well as community level processes such as nutrient cycling
and productivity. Prerequisites: BIO 120, 121, 260. Offered fall terms.
BIO 345 Conservation Biology (3)
This course introduces students to the principles of biodiversity conservation
and addresses genetic, species, community and ecosystem diversity. It
examines the practical application of conservation methods through case
studies, as well as addresses the economic realities of action and inaction.
Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate an understanding
of conservation issues facing the world and will be able to interpret the quality
of conservation policies. Prerequisites: BIO 120, 121, 260.
BIO 348 Microbiology (4)
Microbiology introduces the student to the structure and function of
prokaryotic life forms and relevant eukaryotic microbes. Topics addressed
include diversity in habitat and metabolic capabilities, historical and current
impacts (both positive and negative) on humans and human society, and
control and evolution of medically relevant forms. Upon completion of
this course, students will be competent in handling microorganisms in lab,
understand the importance of microbes to the human state, understand how
the metabolic diversity of microbes impacts the earth in its current form,
understand that evolution is a central concept in biology, a concept that
includes biodiversity, adaptability, change, survival, and mutagenesis, and how
evolution fits into a study of microbiology. Prerequisites: BIO 120, 121,
260. Offered spring term.
BIO 349 Infectious Diseases (3)
This course addresses the historical and present day effects of infectious
disease on human society, agriculture, and medical care. Issues of evolution
of virulence mechanisms, biological organisms as terrorism weapons and
bioterrorism preparedness, public health and disease, antibiotic use and
overuse, common and not-so-common plague-causing organisms, vaccination,
and more will be considered. Disease agents include bacteria, viruses, and
selected eukaryotic pathogens. Students will achieve a solid understanding
of the spread, control and cost of disease in the world today. Prerequisites:
BIO 348. Offered alternate fall terms.
BIO 350 Field Botany (4)
Field botany is a laboratory class designed to give students a practical and
conceptual understanding of plant sampling techniques. By using various
techniques to assess plant productivity, growth, reproduction and survivorship,
students will learn the advantages and disadvantages of various sampling
methods. Upon the successful completion of this class, students will have a
general knowledge of plants typically found in Nebraska and will be able to
implement appropriate plant sampling methods. Prerequisites: BIO 120,
121, 260. Offered alternate fall terms.
BIO 351 Biology Research I (2)
Biology Research I is the biology student’s introduction to formal research.
Each student will select a topic, investigate it thoroughly in the primary
scientifi c literature, identify a faculty research mentor, design experiments,
and prepare a written proposal and oral presentation in a formal setting.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will have a proposal
for their research project to be completed during the senior year in Biology
Research II and III (BIO 495 and 496). Prerequisites: BIO 120, 121, 260,
junior standing, or permission.
BIO 353 Environmental Microbiology (4)
An examination of the roles of microbes in the environment and of several
distinctly different ecosystems and their microbial components. Upon
successful completion of this course, the student will have an understanding
of the roles of microbes and microbial processes in shaping the earth’s
biosphere as we know it today. Prerequisite: BIO 348. Offered alternate
spring terms.
BIO 355 Advanced Human Anatomy (4)
This is a detailed course in human anatomy and histology of major body
systems. With the successful completion of this course, students will be able
to identify the major organs, structures, and the major functions of each body
system. They will understand how form leads to function and be able to predict
the function of a structure or organ based on its histology and organization.
Students will engage in learning these structures and their relationships to
each other through anatomical models, histological preparations, and study of
human cadavers. Through this investigation, students will be able to predict
which organs or body systems are affected with disease or injury. Students
will work collaboratively to learn the organization of the human body and
will gain an appreciation of the intricacy and detail of the human body.
Prerequisites: BIO 120, 260. Offered fall term.
BIO 356 Advanced Human Physiology (4)
This course covers the basics of human physiology. Students will learn to
identify major organs of body systems, significant subdivisions of these
organs, and the etiologies of many disease states. Students will gain skills in
determining heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, testing simple reflexes,
determining blood type, measuring respiratory volumes, and conducting
urinalysis tests. Finally, students will gain an appreciation of the intricacy
and detail of the human body, the importance of precision and accuracy in
experimental work, and the value of collaborative learning. Prerequisites:
BIO 120, 260. Offered spring term.
BIO 395 Biomedical Research Seminar (0-1)
A seminar which will introduce students to current work in biomedical
research. Specific topics will be selected by students and can include any
research that has biomedical application. Students taking this seminar will
learn how to read and present primary literature articles and to critically
evaluate research results. This course cannot be used to fulfill any
requirements for the major. (Pass/Fail)
BIO 400 Tutorial (1)
An organized review of biology directed toward the advanced placement tests
most majors take (GRE, MCAT, DAT, etc.). The course meets one hour per
week. To pass the course, students must pass the departmental Comprehensive
Examination and/or other departmental requirements given as part of the
course. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
BIO 412 Developmental Biology (4)
Animal development is a fascinating process that begins with a single cell and
ends with a complex multicellular organism. This course examines the genetic
and cellular mechanisms that guide development in vertebrate animals. Upon
successful completion of this course, students will understand the importance
of egg preparation and the stages of development, including fertilization,
cleavage, gastrulation, neurulation, organogenesis, and gametogenesis.
Students will also be able to integrate their knowledge of genetics and
cell biology to understand the complex interplay of signals that direct the
organization of the developing vertebrate. Prerequisite: BIO 120, 121,
260. Offered spring term.
BIO 421 Biology Internship (0-12)
On-the-job experience in biology. Prerequisite: CED 205 or permission.
(Pass/Fail)
BIO 494 Bioscience Research (2)
A one semester laboratory or field research project required of all biology
majors seeking teacher certification in biology. Students will complete
the research project they proposed in Biology Research I (Biology 351 or
Chemistry 351). To successfully complete this course students will conduct
their scientific study by carrying out laboratory or field experiments, taking
appropriate notes, analyzing their data, and presenting their findings in a
written thesis and oral or poster presentation. Prerequisite: BIO 351 (or
CHM 351) and admission into teacher education program. Offered
spring term.
BIO 495 - 496 Biology Research II, III (2) (2)
A two-semester laboratory or field research project required of all biology
majors. Students will complete the research project they proposed in Biology
Research I (BIO 351or CHM 351). To successfully complete this sequence of
courses students will conduct their scientific study by carrying out laboratory
or field experiments, taking appropriate notes, analyzing their data, and
presenting their findings in a written thesis and oral or poster presentation.
Prerequisites: BIO 351 (or CHM 351). Offered: BIO 495 every fall,
BIO 496 every spring.
BIO 498 Honors in Biology (1)
Presentation of the Senior Research project at a professional scientific meeting
such as that of the Nebraska Academy of Sciences. The presentation may
either be oral or in a poster format. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment
in BIO 496 and minimum GPA of 3.00 overall and in the natural
sciences. Offered spring term.