Biology - Major in Biology Program

Required Courses:
BIO 111 General Biology I

A rigorous study of basic biological principles, designed for science majors. Topics emphasized include basic biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, embryology and histology. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis. Corequisite: BIO 111L. 4 credits.

BIO 112 General Biology II

This course, also rigorous and designed for science majors, covers concepts in animal and plant physiology, botany, ecology and evolution. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis. Prerequisite: BIO 111/L. Corequisite: BIO 112L. 4 credits.

BIO 312 Ecology

An examination of the basic concepts of ecology with extensive laboratory work and field experiences in freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. Fulfills requirement: Critical Thinking through Writing. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L. Corequisite: BIO 312L. This course satisfies requirements of the College Honors program. Enrollment is open to all students. 4 credits.

CHM 111 Principles of Chemistry I

An introduction to chemistry for the science major. First semester topics include atomic and molecular structure, chemical reactions, and calculations involving chemical concentrations, gas laws and bonding. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis. Prerequisite: one year of high school chemistry or permission of the instructor. Corequisite: CHM 113 or 115, if not previously completed. 3 credits.

CHM 112 Principles of Chemistry II

A continuation of first semester. Topics include kinetics, acids and bases, equilibrium, thermodynamics, electro-chemistry and nuclear chemistry. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis. Prerequisite: CHM 111. Corequisite: CHM 114 or 116, if not previously completed. 3 credits.

CHM 115 Techniques of Chemistry I

Extended projects involving the synthesis of inorganic and organic compounds that require the development of procedure from published literature methods. The prepared compounds are then analyzed using quantitative analytical techniques, as well as introductory spectroscopic techniques. In addition to the use of essential laboratory equipment, students are exposed to advanced spectroscopic methods; there is an additional emphasis on the use of computers in the laboratory. Restricted to chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology, and environmental science majors. Fulfills requirement: Oral Communication. Corequisite: CHM 111, if not previously completed. 1 credit.

CHM 116 Techniques of Chemistry II

Second semester of extended projects, focusing on the synthesis and characterization of compounds. In addition to the use of essential laboratory equipment, students are exposed to advanced spectroscopic methods; there is an additional emphasis on the use of computers in the laboratory. Projects are modeled after real-world career paths such as academic research, industrial product development, government regulation, or forensic science. Fulfills requirement: Oral Communication. Prerequisite: CHM 111 and 115; restricted to majors in chemistry or biochemistry and molecular biology. Corequisite: CHM 112, if not previously completed. 1 credit.

CHM 213 Organic Chemistry I

An introduction to the principles of organic chemistry. The focus of the course is on the structure of organic molecules and how the structure of various functional groups affects their reactivity. The concepts of reactivity, structure and mechanism are applied to organic synthesis. Prerequisite: CHM 112. Corequisite: CHM 215. 3 credits.

CHM 215 Organic Laboratory I

An introduction to the practice of classical organic chemistry and modern instrumental organic chemistry. The techniques of organic synthesis are taught along with instrumental methods including infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. Prerequisite: CHM 112/114 or 112/116. Corequisite: CHM 213. 1 credit.

ENVI 101 Introduction to Environmental Science

The course will be an exploration of human interactions with other organisms and the environment including an introduction to ecological principles and their applications to understanding the causes and current status of environmental problems. Students will be presented with the major issues related to the environment and provided with tools for critical thinking regarding these issues in order to become more aware of the scientific, political, economic, ethical, and social issues surrounding the effects of human activities on the natural world. Discussion topics include sustainability, climate change, biodiversity and its conservation, energy sources, pollution, environmental health, resource management, and waste disposal. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis,Civic Engagement. Corequisite: ENVI 101L. 4 credits. (This course is cross-listed with ENVI 100)

/ENVI 101L
ENVI 130 Introduction to Geosystems

The field of physical geography studies the spatial dimension of Earth's dynamic systems. This course will investigate the energy, air, water, weather, climate, tectonics, landforms, rocks and soils of planet Earth. The class will focus on how solar energy and the atmosphere influence climate and weather, the formation of earth's landscapes including tectonics, earthquakes, and weathering, river systems and water availability, as well as how water, wind, and ice influence soil formation. Across the entire course, we will also investigate how humans have influenced our physical environment. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis,Civic Engagement. 3 credits.

ENVI 131 Geographic Information Systems

Location on the earth is an important part of our understanding and communication about everything from disease outbreak, to political unrest, to famine, to climate change, to urban planning, and marketing trends. A Geographic Information System (GIS) helps us visualize, question, analyze and interpret data, and to understand relationships, patterns, and trends. This course is designed to give students a hands-on introduction to methods and uses of GIS, and to a geospatial way of looking at the world. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis. 3 credits.

PHY 103 General College Physics I

This course provides an algebra-based introduction to the fundamental concepts and laws of classical mechanics and thermodynamics, with laboratory work in each area. The mechanics unit covers translational motion, Newton's laws, energy, momentum, rotational motion, statics, oscillations, waves, and sound. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis,Quantitative Reasoning. Corequisite: PHY 103L. 4 credits.

/PHY 103L or PHY 111 Principles of Physics I

This course provides a rigorous, calculus-based introduction to topics in classical mechanics such as translational motion, Newton's laws, energy, momentum, rotational motion, statics, fluids, oscillations, waves, and sound. In addition to the lecture component, weekly laboratory work will be conducted in each area. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis,Quantitative Reasoning. Prerequisite or corequisite: MAS 111 or 161. Corequisite: PHY 111L. 4 credits.

/PHY 111L

One of the following mathematics classes:
BIO 214 Biological Research Methods, Design, and Statistics

This course provides students with the foundational skills needed to conduct biological research. The course covers the application of the scientific method holistically through research from start to finish including writing research proposals, conducting literature searches, critiquing sources, experimental design, lab and field safety, data analysis using graphing and statistics, oral and poster presentations, and scientific writing. Fulfills requirement: Quantitative Reasoning. Prerequisites: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L; or permission of the instructor. Corequisite: BIO 215, 550, or ENVI 560. 3 credits.

MAS 161 Calculus I

A calculus sequence covering functions, limits, differentiation, integration and applications. Fulfills requirement: Quantitative Reasoning. Prerequisite: MAS 102 at LVC, or satisfactory score on the math readiness test. This test is administered during New Student Advising Days for incoming students or can be taken by arrangement with the math department (717-867-6080). 3 credits.

MAS 170 Elementary Statistics

An introduction to elementary descriptive and inferential statistics with emphasis on conceptual understanding. A student may not receive credit for MAS 170 after completing MAS 372. A student may not receive credit for more than one of HSC 170, MAS 170, and MAS 270. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis,Quantitative Reasoning. 3 credits.

One of the following environmental studies classes:
BUS 270 Environmental Management and Policy

This course examines the history of environmental awareness and government intervention in the United States from the 1970's to the present. We examine the initial business response to permit requirements and mandated guidance. We discuss key environmental legislation and the impact of corresponding regulations, as well as the role of growing environmental activism and business transitions to a more proactive environmental approach. The course also examines the role of critical stakeholders in promoting increased transparency and improved environmental stewardship, and the emergence of sustainable business practices to reduce operating costs and achieve greater business success. There is also an overview of environmental challenges that face the planet today, along with a discussion on how businesses and consumers can take action to mitigate these adverse environmental challenges. 3 credits.

ECN 217 Environmental Economics and Sustainability

An introduction to the application of economics tools to the study of the environment. Students will learn about market failures and externalities, pollution and public policy, and cost-benefit analysis. The role that our economic system plays in decisions affecting the sustainability of our ecosystems is emphasized. Fulfills requirement: Civic Engagement. 3 credits.

ENVI 291 Special Topics in Socio-Environmental Science

Topic announced at the time of registration. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. 3 credits.

ENVI 391 Special Topics in Socio-Environmental Science

Topic announced at the time of registration. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. 3 credits.

*PHL 311 Seminar in Philosophy

The course focuses on the issues surrounding one central topic in the study of Philosophy. Students will take an interdisciplinary and problem-oriented approach to such topics as Genocide, Postmodern Philosophy and Theology, Madness and Happiness. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. Fulfills requirement: Oral Communication. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. 3 credits.

Any additional four courses (including the corresponding lab) from the following:
BCMB 401 Molecular Biology

This introduces gene structure, function and regulation at the molecular level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Both classic and modern molecular biology technologies will be discussed. Prerequisite: Three semesters of chemistry; and BIO 201 or 205; or permission of the instructor. Corequisite: BCMB 401L. 4 credits.

BCMB 422 Biochemistry II

The continued study of biomolecules, with an emphasis on the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Topics covered included carbohydrate chemistry, coenzyme mechanisms, electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation, lipid chemistry, membranes and an introduction to amino acid metabolism. Overall, intermediary metabolism, its energetics, and its metabolic control is viewed from an integrated perspective. Prerequisites: CHM 214 and 216. 3 credits.

Corresponding lab BCMB 430 Biochemistry Laboratory

Investigations of the properties and functions of biomolecules. Methods include chromatography, spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, and various instrumental methods. Prerequisites: CHM 214 and 216. 1 credit.

BIO 201 Genetics

A study of the principles, mechanisms and concepts of classical, molecular, and population genetics. The laboratory stresses key concepts of genetics utilizing both classical and molecular approaches. Laboratory exercises include analysis of nucleic acids, genetic crosses, and studies of bacteria and plasmids. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis. Prerequisites: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L. Corequisite: BIO 201L. 4 credits.

BIO 203 Conservation Biology

An introduction of the threats to genetic, organismal, and ecosystem diversity. The course begins with a discussion of biodiversity, population size, and ecosystem functioning. It then investigates the threats to biodiversity including habitat loss, pollution, overexploitation, invasive species, and climate change.? Finally, the course will examine management and policy options that seek to preserve biodiversity. This course places a strong emphasis on civic engagement, highlighting how individuals and communities can actively contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. Fulfills requirement: Natural Science Analysis,Civic Engagement. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L, or C- grade in ENVI-101/L. Corequisite: BIO 203L. 4 credits.

BIO 212 Animal Behavior

A study of the basic concepts of invertebrate and vertebrate behavior with emphasis on the development, genetics, physiology and evolution of behavior. Laboratory exercises include ethogram construction, path integration, aggressive display analysis, chemical communication, and spatial learning. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111 and BIO 112. Corequisite: BIO 212L. 4 credits.

BIO 302 Plant Diversity

The development and diversity of fungi, algae and land plants and the relationships between them. Field, laboratory, and greenhouse work emphasizes independent experimental design, data collection and analyses, as well as identification of local flora. Fulfills requirement: Oral Communication. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L. Corequisite: BIO 302L. 4 credits.

BIO 306 Microbiology

A study of the morphology, physiology and biochemistry of representative microorganisms. The laboratory emphasizes basic bacteriological techniques and procedures. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L; three semesters of chemistry or permission. Corequisite: BIO 306L. 4 credits.

BIO 307 Plant Physiology

A study of the functioning of plants, with emphasis on vascular plants. Fulfills requirement: Critical Thinking through Writing. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L; three semesters of chemistry or permission. Corequisite: BIO 307L. 4 credits.

BIO 313 Forest Ecology and Management

This course will investigate how understanding forest ecology can aid in the development of forest management strategies. Students will learn how different silvicultural techniques will lead to different strategies. At the end of this course, students should be familiar with how to write and implement a forest management plan. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L, or C- grade in ENVI-101/L. Corequisite: BIO 313L. 4 credits.

BIO 314 Wildlife Ecology and Management

This course will investigate how understanding the principles of wildlife ecology can aid in management and conservation practices. Students will learn about factors that influence wildlife populations and learn techniques used to monitor and manage wildlife populations. At the end of this course, students should be familiar with how to write and implement a wildlife management plan. Fulfills requirement: Quantitative Reasoning. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L, or C- grade in ENVI-101/L. Corequisite: BIO 314L. 4 credits.

BIO 402 Evolution

This course is a study of biological evolution, the unifying principle of the biological sciences. Examples of topics to be covered include speciation, natural selection, sexual selection, the molecular basis of evolution, and the natural history of life on Earth. Special emphasis will be given to population genetics concepts and molecular phylogenetics. Laboratory exercises will include both bench work and computer-based labs. Prerequisite: a C- (1.67) average in BIO 111/L and BIO 112/L; and BIO 201/L or BIO 205. Corequisite: BIO 402L. 4 credits.

CHM 214 Organic Chemistry II

Second semester of an introduction to the principles of organic chemistry. The focus of the course is on the structure of organic molecules and how the structure of various functional groups affects their reactivity. The concepts of reactivity, structure and mechanism are applied to organic synthesis. Prerequisite: CHM 213. 3 credits.

Corresponding lab CHM 216 Organic Laboratory II

Second semester of an introduction to the practice of classical organic chemistry and modern instrumental organic chemistry. The techniques of organic synthesis are taught along with instrumental methods including infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. Prerequisite or corequisite: CHM 214. 1 credit.

CHM 224 Analytical Chemistry

Topics for this course include statistical methods; activity and activity coefficients; chemical equilibria involving complex systems; volumetric analyses including acid/base, precipitation, redox, and complexometric titrations; principles of electrochemistry, potentiometry, electrogravimetry, coulometry, and voltammetry. Prerequisite: CHM 112. 3 credits.

Corresponding lab CHM 226 Quantitative Analysis Lab

Volumetric, spectrophotometric, and electrochemical methods are applied to the analysis of unknowns. Take CHM 224. 1 credit.

CHM 302 Environmental Chemistry

In this course, reactions occurring in atmospheric, aquatic, and terrestrial systems will be examined, with consideration given to chemical transformations involving both natural substances and pollutants. Time will also be devoted to current issues of relevance, such as climate change, alternative energy sources, green chemistry and sustainability. Prerequisite: CHM 213. 3 credits.

CHM 306 Instrumental Analysis

Basic types of chemical instrumentation and their applications in analytical chemistry are examined. These include gas and liquid chromatography; infrared, UV-VIS, fluorescence, atomic absorption, and plasma emission spectrophotometry; nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. Prerequisites: CHM 112. 3 credits.

Corresponding lab CHM 308 Instrumental Analysis Lab

Chemical instrumentation is utilized in method development, unknown determinations, and chemical analysis. Fulfills requirement: Oral Communication. Prerequisite or corequisite: CHM 306. 1 credit.

ENVI 290 Special Topics in Environmental Science

Topic announced at the time of registration. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. 3-4 credits.

ENVI 390 Special Topics in Environmental Science

Topic announced at the time of registration. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. 3-4 credits.

ENVI 490 Special Topics in Environmental Science

Topic announced at the time of registration. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. 3-4 credits.

One of the following Capstone Experiences:
ENVI 400 Internship

Environmental Studies Internship. Fulfills requirement: Immersive Experience. Graded pass/fail. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. 1-12 credits.

ENVI 560 Environmental Research

This course prepares students for career in Environmental Science, helping students gain skills applicable for employment or additional studies in the field. In additional to professional development learning opportunities, students will work with a faculty research mentor to conduct environmental research related to that advisor's area of expertise. Students will learn how to collect, analyze, and critically evaluate environmental data, and present data in written reports or oral presentations. Fulfills requirement: Immersive Experience. This course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. Prerequisite: BIO 111/112, or CHM 111/112. Permission from instructor is required. Corequisite: ENVI 560L. 1 credit.

*Topic must be Environmental Ethics.

[All BIO courses have a co-requisite laboratory.]