Biology Course Listing

Biology Courses

BIOL101. Biological Concepts

This course introduces students to the nature, methods, and applications of biology. Conceptual topics include methods of biological investigation, molecular and cellular features of living things, mechanisms for the evolution and continuity of life, and ecological interactions among individuals, populations and their environment. Issues of contemporary and historical importance will be used to illustrate conceptual topics and demonstrate biology's relevance to the quality of human life and history and future of human civilizations. Does not meet the requirements for students seeking teaching licensure. Undergraduate students seeking elementary, elementary/middle, or special education teaching licensure must take BIOL 114 for the scientific reasoning pillar. It is recommended that biology and integrated environmental sciences majors take BIOL 120 as the entry level biology course. May not enroll if BIOL 114 or BIOL 120 has already been completed. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits. G06. FSRC. WI.

BIOL114. Life Science for Educators

An inquiry into the study of life, with emphasis on the form and function of organisms and the ecological principles governing populations, communities, and ecosystems. This course is specifically designed for students seeking teaching licensure and does not meet the requirements for a biology major. Scientific reasoning and scientific communication will be emphasized within the context of studying the principles of life science education guided by both the Next Generation Science Standards and the Virginia Standards of Learning. 2 lecture, and 2-hour lab periods. 3 credits. FSRC, SI.

BIOL114. Life Science for Educators

BIOL120. Integrative Biology

The first of a three-semester introduction to the study of biology. The course introduces students to the nature, methods, and applications of biology. Students will be asked to think critically on a broad range of biological topics, from the molecular, cellular, and developmental bases of life to the evolutionary and ecological relationships of individuals and populations. Biology majors and minors must earn at least a C- in this course before taking advanced courses. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL188. First Year Biology Seminar

This course introduces Biology students to the knowledge and skills that promote success in college, within the program, and post-graduation. Students will learn about the biology curriculum, professional opportunities for biologists, and research, writing, and presenting in biology. Additionally, students will apply best practices in time management, goal setting, and study skills critical for a successful and meaningful college and professional experience. Open only to Biology majors and minors. 1 credit.

BIOL1SR. Biology SR Transfer Pillar

Biology SR Pillar Course

BIOL1XX. Biology Elective

BIOL206. Human Anat Physiology I

Basic physiological principles and integrated anatomy and physiology of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and endocrine systems. May not enroll if BIOL 301 has already been completed with a C- or higher grade. 4 credits.

BIOL207. Human Anat Physiology II

Human Anatomy and Physiology II. Basic physiological principles and integrated human anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, digestive, metabolic, urinary, and reproductive systems. May not enroll if BIOL 302 has already been completed with a C- or higher grade. 4 credits.

BIOL250. Intro to Genetics & Cell Biol

The second tier of a three-semester introduction to the study of biology. This course introduces students to the molecular mechanisms that govern cellular growth, homeostasis, and response to external stimuli. Students will be asked to think critically on a broad range of biological topics focused on the cellular, molecular, and genetic basis of life. Prerequisites: BIOL 120 or BIOL 101 with a minimum grade of C-; Majors and minors from Biology, Integrated Environmental Science, Chemistry, Physics. 4 credits.

BIOL251. Intro to Ecology & Evolution

The second tier of a three-semester introduction to the study of biology. An examination of the central concepts of evolutionary and ecological theory and application. The principles underlying the interactions of organisms within their environments including the population, community, and ecosystem levels of organization are discussed. The lab normally includes local field trips and the completion of research assignments as part of a functional team. Prerequisites: BIOL 120 or BIOL 101 with minimum grade of C-; Majors and minors from Biology, Integrated Environmental Science, Chemistry, Physics. 4 credits.

BIOL288. Second Year Biology Seminar

The primary emphasis of this course is on the enhancement of scientific reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills. Biological concepts that were introduced in previous introductory courses will be reinforced through readings and discussions of primary literature. Various forms of scientific communication will also be taught and practiced through multiple writing assignments. Other miscellaneous topics related to scientific research and career preparation will also be considered. Pre-requisite: BIOL 250, BIOL 251, and one of ENSC 100 or BIOL 188, all with minimum grades of C-, and MATH 171. 3 credits.

BIOL292. Internship in Biology

A semester-long, on-the-job learning experience designed to apply the principles of biology. 1-4 credits.

BIOL295. Special Topics Biology

Specialized courses on a variety of topics that may be offered periodically. 1-6 credits.

BIOL2XX. Biology Elective

BIOL301. Comprehensive Human A & P I

Integrative human anatomy with advanced physiological principles. Topics covered include pathophysiology as well as the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems. May not enroll if BIOL 206 has already been completed with a C- or higher grade. Prerequisite: BIOL 288. 4 credits.

BIOL302. Comprehensive Human A & P II

Basic physiological principles and integrated human anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, digestive, metabolic, urinary, and reproductive systems. May not enroll if BIOL 207 has already been completed with a C- or higher grade. Prerequisite: BIOL 301. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL303. Vertebrate Morphology

A comparative study of embryonic development, anatomy and evolution in representative vertebrate groups. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 2 lecture and two 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL304. Microbiology for Hlthcare Prof

A study of the structure, physiology and activity of microorganisms as related to their role in nature, disease, and human affairs. This course will examine the key roles of symbiosis with emphasis on the host-pathogen relationship as it affects humans. Basic concepts and fundamental techniques for the isolation, growth, and identification of bacteria and fungi are stressed. This course does not fulfill the Cell and Molecular Area requirement for the biology major (students should take BIOL 305 instead to fulfill that requirement). Either BIOL 304 or BIOL 305 may be used to satisfy elective requirements for the biology major, but no student may take both of these courses. Prerequisites: BIOL 250, or both BIOL 206 and 207. Nursing majors only, or by permission of the instructor. 3 lecture and one 3-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL305. General Microbiology

Microorganisms make life possible, and their study has taken life science into the molecular age. This course is designed primarily for biology majors and will introduce the fundamentals of prokaryotic cell structure and function, metabolism and physiology, taxonomy, microbial genetics and mechanisms of gene transfer inclusive of both bacteria and viruses. Discussions will emphasize the profound importance of microbial symbiosis ranging from key trophic interactions in the biosphere to key influences upon the human microbiome. This course will provide conceptual background sufficient to enable students to engage more advanced coursework in related fields. Either BIOL 304 or BIOL 305 may be used to satisfy elective requirements for the biology major, but no student may take both of these courses. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 and CHEM 211, or permission of the instructor. 3 lecture and on 3-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL306. Vertebrate Physiology

The principal functional processes in vertebrate organs and organ systems including respiration, circulation, hormonal coordination, water balance, thermoregulation, nervous coordination, and responses to special environments. Prerequisites: CHEM 111 with a minimum grade of C-; BIOL 288 (may be taken concurrently); or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL309. Plant Biology

An examination of major groups of photosynthetic organisms, with emphasis on vascular plants. Major topics include (1) evolution and biodiversity, (2) comparative structure, function, and organization, (3) reproduction, development, and growth, and (4) ecological and human importance. Students will be challenged to think critically and to build an integrated understanding of plants, from knowledge of their unique biochemistry to their important roles in ecosystems. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL315. Invertebrate Zoology

A survey of the most prominent branches of the phylogenetic tree. Working from the protozoans to the chordates, this course explores evolution, systematics, physiology, morphology, life history, ecology and behavior of select species. This phylogenetic context will provide a unique opportunity to understand the problems common to all life and how evolution has solved them. Labs will include studying the body plans of major phylogenetic groups to understand how structure and function are interlinked. Course coverage includes many groups important to medicine (e.g. many parasitic organisms) as well as to other disciplines such as geology, ecology, paleontology and neuroscience. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL324. Genetics

A study of classical and molecular genetics that emphasizes the nature of hereditary material, gene transmission and expression, linkage and recombination, and gene action and regulation. Lectures will cover a broad range of topics addressing both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. Issues and ethics concerning the human condition will be addressed. Laboratory activities will target the application of a variety of practical, critical thinking, and technical skills. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 3-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL326. Cell Biology

A study of the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The course will focus on cellular structures, membranes, and organelles, internal cellular functions including cytoskeleton, aerobic respiration, DNA replication, gene expression, cell cycle and the endomembrane system, external cellular matrix and cell attachment, and signaling pathways. Laboratory activities will target the application of a variety of practical, critical thinking, and technical skills. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 3-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL330. Conservation Biology

A multifaceted course focused on the application of basic ecological principles to complex conservation problems. Successful conservation efforts require that biological solutions be meshed with political, social, and economic realities, and thus conservation biology is an interdisciplinary field. Class discussions and projects will apply basic concepts to the high-stakes field of endangered species management as well as local, regional, and global biodiversity conservation. Students will be required to complete research assignments independently and as part of a functional team. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL341. Ecology

Mechanisms underlying ecological concepts will be explored in-depth with critical discussions of classical and contemporary literature. Field and laboratory exercises will emphasize experimental design, execution, and data analysis. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 3-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL342. Biogeography

An investigation of the past and present geographic distribution of organisms on land and in water. This broad, interdisciplinary course will combine insights from biology, ecology, geography, and geology to examine changes in species distribution over space and time. The course will investigate: 1)historical and present day patterns in biological diversity 2) the geologic, climatic, and ecological factors controlling these patterns, 3) the influence of humanity on biogeography, and 4) the conservation of biodiversity. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL344. The Hist and Bio of Reproduct

This course is designed to teach students about the history and biology of reproductive health. Students will explore the history of reproductive health in the United States during the twentieth century. They will also explore the anatomy and function of the reproductive system(s). Topics covered in this course include: menstruation, contraception, sterilization, eugenics, pregnancy, childbirth, post-partum, breastfeeding/feeding, fertility problems and solutions, and endometriosis. Prerequisites: Completion of the FSRC and FHCI pillar requirements. PSRC, WI. 3 credits.

BIOL344. The Hist and Bio of Reproduct

BIOL346. Res Crs: Cnsrv in Amazon

This class is offered in conjunction with study abroad in Ecuador and focuses on the importance of the Amazon rainforest as an ecosystem and as a contributor to economic growth. Students will gain an understanding of tropical ecology, conservation biology, and environmental economics as they apply to the Amazon environment and communities, with a basis of scientific reasoning to develop an informed perspective on civic and global issues. A particular topic of interest will be the decision to drill for oil in the Amazon and the impacts on biological, sociological, and economic systems. The course will highlight the integration of both conservation and economics, while exploring the tradeoffs associated with drilling. Pre-requisites: Completion of FHBS and FSRC. 3 credits.

BIOL360. Developmental Biology

One of the most complex processes in biology is the transformation of a single cell – the fertilized egg – into an adult organism. This course provides an introduction to the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms that direct the development of multicellular organisms. Topics include: gametogenesis, fertilization, gastrulation, organogenesis, sex determination, developmental gene regulation, teratology, aging, and ethics. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL364. Perspectives in Toxicology

This Perspectives course introduces students to the interdisciplinary field of toxicology at the molecular, environmental, and regulatory levels. Students will be introduced to the basic concepts of toxicology, including the history of poisons, dose-response, routes of exposure, and mechanisms of toxicity through a series of case studies that delve into the social, political, and global issues involved. Prerequisites: One of the following FSRC courses: BIOL101, BIOL114, NEUR105, ENSC162 or CHEM111, with a minimum of C-. 3 credits. PSRC, WI.

BIOL366. Biodiversity and Conservation

A Scientific Reasoning Perspectives level course focused on understanding global biodiversity and conservation strategies. The course will emphasize the distinguishing features and the human and ecological relevance of the major taxa of organisms. Understanding the characteristics of organisms and the factors that determine their distribution and abundance provides critical information for devising conservation strategies. However, successful efforts to reduce the loss of biodiversity depend on the integration of multiple perspectives and knowledge from many disciplines. Students will be challenged to consider the effects of historical, cultural, economic, political, and ethical perspectives on shaping human viewpoints about biodiversity and conservation. Critical thinking and scientific writing will be utilized in evaluating conservation strategies from an interdisciplinary perspective. Prerequisite: Completion of Civitae Core FSRC. 3 credits. PSRC, WI.

BIOL368. Ethnobiology: HumSoc & NatWrld

This course aims to provide an informed perspective on the multifaceted and changing relationships between human societies and the natural world. We will explore scientific methods used to retrieve traditional indigenous knowledge about species and local ecosystems. We will also discuss how this type of knowledge can be used to mitigate global challenges, such as biodiversity loss, resource insecurity, and health and environmental crises, created by changing ecosystems and disrupting human-nature relationships in modern times. The course further examines ethical and policy issues related to ethnobiological studies, as well as conservation and fair use of local resources. This course takes a global perspective but also includes some local case studies. Pre-requisite: Completion of one of the following FSRC courses: BIOL 101, BIOL 114, CHEM 111, or ENSC 162. 3 Credits. PSRC, SI.

BIOL370. Ichthyology

This course will introduce students to Ichthyology, the study of fishes. The goal of this course is to explore the diversity, biology and ecology of fishes from an evolutionary perspective. Topics covered include, the history of Ichthyology, phylogenic relationships and taxonomic diversity of fishes, morphology, physiology, ecology, evolution and conservation of fishes. The laboratory portion of the course expands upon material presented in lecture and includes field trips to local waters. The labs off hands-on experience in learning about, identifying major orders, families, genera and species of fishes with particular emphasis on species occurring in freshwater and brackish water habitats in Virginia. Prerequisites: BIOL 251 with minimum grade of C- or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 3-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL371. Ornithology

A study of the ecology and evolution, form and function and, classification and identification of birds of the world, with an emphasis on Virginia species. In the laboratory, students will learn to classify and identify, by sight and sound, the birds of the world with an emphasis on species of the eastern United States. Lab work, field activities, and independent study are required, including weekend field trips. Prerequisites: BIOL 251 with minimum grade of C- or permission of instructor. 3 lectures and one 3-hour lab period. 4 credits.

BIOL374. Entomology

A study of insects: morphology, ecology, evolution, physiology, or taxonomy of the class or of a particular order. Prerequisites: BIOL 251 with minimum grade of C- or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL388. Third Year Biology Seminar

This course is designed to provide guidance to students as they progress through the major, begin preparing for future careers, and continue updating their ePortfolio. The course will focus on teaching professional development skills including setting and achieving post-graduate goals, professional networking, applying for post-graduate positions, and effectively interviewing. Pre-requisite: BIOL 288. 3 credits.

BIOL390. Directed or Independent Study

Must be approved by the head of the department. 1-8 credits.

BIOL392. Internship in Biology

A semester-long, on-the-job learning experience designed to apply the principles of biology. 1-4 credits.

BIOL395. Special Topics in Biology

Specialized courses on a variety of topics that may be offered periodically. 1-6 credits.

BIOL399. Evolution

This course examines the principles of organic evolution and the patterns generated by evolutionary processes. Topics include: hypothesis testing in evolutionary biology, origins of variation and novelty, natural selection, molecular evolution, evolutionary development, speciation, and major transitions in evolutionary history. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288, or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL404. Immunology

This course focuses on the specific and non-specific immune responses with particular emphasis on the human system. Relative to each category of immune response, the interplay between immune signaling molecules and relevant cells, tissues, and organs are discussed. Specific topics include: antigen recognition, processing, and presentation, B/T lymphocyte maturation, activation, and differentiation, humoral immunity, cell-mediated immunity, inflammation, hypersensitivity, acute and chronic disease responses, vaccines, and the immunology of cancer. Prerequisites: Undergraduate level BIOL 304 Minimum Grade of C- and Undergraduate level BIOL 324 Minimum Grade of C-) or Undergraduate level BIOL 288 Minimum Grade of C- and ( BIOL 305 or BIOL 324 or BIOL 326. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL412. Biochemistry I

A study of the chemistry of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids in biological systems. Prerequisite: CHEM 112 and CHEM 212 (with minimum grade of "C-" in both courses). 3 lecture hours and one 3-hour lab period. 4 credits.

BIOL413. Biochemistry II

An in-depth, systematic study of the metabolic processes carried out in living cells. Topics include the central energy conversion pathways, photosynthesis and carbon fixation, carbohydrate synthesis, and other major biomolecule synthesis pathways, and their regulation by cells. The roles of metals and the metabolic transformations of disease are also emphasized. Pre-requisites: BIOL 412 or CHEM 412, with a minimum grade of C-. 3 credits.

BIOL425. Modern Genetics

A study of the structure and function of hereditary material at the molecular level. Students will apply current laboratory and analytical technologies to develop research-based critical thinking skills. Topics include DNA-RNA structure and replication, RNA splicing, Protein synthesis, and Genomic analysis. Prerequisite: BIOL 288 with a minimum grade of C-; BIOL 324 or BIOL 326; or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and two 1.5-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL427. Molecular Mechanisms Disease

This course will develop the principles of molecular biology including the biology, structure, and function of DNA and RNA. Lecture will cover a broad range of topics addressing modern tenets of Molecular Biology and how genetic factors contribute to the mechanisms of disease. Particular attention will be given to the action of enzymes on DNA and RNA as a standard process of life, and principles of gene expression. Laboratory sessions will be dedicated to the design and implementation of novel genetic “machines” to understand molecular mechanisms. Course content will be developed through individual and group discussions of select topics. The course is designed for students planning to continue into graduate and professional education. Prerequisites: BIOL 288 with a minimum grade of C-; BIOL 305 or 324; or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and two 1.5-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL432. Freshwater Ecology

This course provides an introduction to the physical, chemical, and biological properties of freshwater ecosystems. Emphasis is placed on species interactions among aquatic organisms, including microbes, plants, and animals under varying abiotic conditions. Comparisons between lentic (ponds, lakes, wetlands) and lotic (streams, rivers) as well as natural and man-made systems are discussed, and human impacts on fresh waters are investigated. Field sampling of various freshwater habitats is conducted during the laboratory component to complement lecture topics. Weekend field trips may be required. Prerequisite: CHEM 111, MATH 171, and one of the following pairs: BIOL 288 and one of BIOL 330, BIOL 341, or BIOL 342; or ENSC 201 and BIOL 251. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL434. Ecosystem Ecology

This course will examine how the living processes on the Earth interact chemically with the non-living aspects of the Earth's atmosphere, and surface. The course will cover both the history of life's impact on the Earth's chemistry and how present day life continues to interact with the abiotic processes on Earth. The course will also discuss the unique role that human activities play in the present state of Earth's surface chemistry and biology. Prerequisites: BIOL 288 with minimum grades of C-; MATH 301, CHEM 111, and BIOL 305 or 341; or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL444. Medical Neurobiology

Medical Neurobiology provides a review of the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system and then explores how alterations in these systems – whether genetically or environmentally triggered – can result in human neurologic or psychiatric disorders. Emphasizing pathological neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuropharmacology, this class covers material essential for understanding problems related to health and disease. Common neurological medical disorders (such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease) and disorders that are classically thought of as non-neurological (such as myopia, hearing loss, hypertension, asthma) will be covered – concepts that will affect nearly every health professional. Pre-requisites: BIOL 301 or BIOL 306 or BIOL 324 or BIOL 326 or BIOL 360 or NEUR 321. 3 credits.

BIOL450. Biology of Cancer

This course focuses on the basic cellular and molecular mechanisms of cancer with an emphasis on comparing the cellular and molecular biology of healthy cells and cancer cells. To understand how a normal cell becomes cancerous, this course will examine the development of cancer as it relates to genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, developmental biology, and physiology. In addition, the development and clinical use of therapies based on major discoveries in cancer biology research will be investigated. Prerequisite: BIOL 288 with a minimum grade of C-; BIOL 324, 326 or 360; or permission of instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL455. Seminar Topics in Biology

The study of current topics in biology through reading and discussion of the primary literature. this course will emphasize advanced critical analysis and the integration of knowledge in the chosen field to the broader scientific context. May be repeated for credit when the topic changes. Prerequisite: BIOL 288 with a minimum grade of C- and MATH 301, or permission of instructor. Additional prerequisites may be recommended, depending on the topic. 1-3 credits.

BIOL460. Topics in Field Biology

The study of field biology in the context of an area of specialization such as, but not limited to, the following: botany, ecology, ornithology, herpetology, or mammalogy. In addition to local field trips, independent field study and overnight field trips may be required. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisite: BIOL 288 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of instructor. Additional prerequisites may be recommended, depending on the topic. 3-6 credits.

BIOL465. Advanced Laboratory Techniques

The study and application of advanced laboratory techniques in the context of an area of specialization, such as, but not limited to the following: molecular biology, protein biochemistry, phylogenetics, microbial fermentation, chemical composition of environmental samples. In addition to laboratory sessions, independent study, data collection outside of normal laboratory sessions, and field-trips to collect samples may be required. Lecture and laboratory sessions will focus on the theoretical and practical skills required to address a research-centric topic. May be repeated for credit when the topic changes. Prerequisite: BIOL 288 with a minimum grade of C- and MATH 171, or permission of instructor. Additional prerequisites may be recommended, depending on the topic. 1-6 credits.

BIOL473. Comparative Biomechanics

All living things are subject to physical laws that govern how they move, eat, stand, heat themselves, and stay hydrated. Comparative biomechanics is the study of how organisms are built and have evolved to live within those physical limitations. This course will focus on examining the form-function relationships of animal locomotion (walking, running, flying, and swimming), animal food consumption, and plant structures. Prerequisites: BIOL 288 with a minimum grade of C- and either one of the following: BIOL 301, 303, 306, 309, 315; or permission of instructor; PHYS 120 and PHYS 121 recommended. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL475. Animal Behavior

An examination of the evolutionary, developmental, ecological, and physiological mechanisms and significance of animal behavior. Focal areas include foraging, communication, migration, predator-prey interactions, mating and parental care. An inclusive sampling of those species (e.g., insects, reptiles, bird and mammals) will bestudied. Prerequisites: BIOL 288 with minimum grades of C-; MATH 301 and BIOL 341 or 399; or permission of the instructor. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. 4 credits.

BIOL488. Fourth Year Biology Seminar

An integrative study of biology that serves as a capstone experience for the major. Students will be challenged to utilize and reflect upon knowledge and skills acquired throughout the curriculum, including the role of science in society. Critical analysis of primary literature will be applied to writing a research proposal and demonstrating skills in written and oral communication. Additional emphasis will be placed on professional development, information literacy, and collaborative work skills. Students should complete this course during their last semester of coursework. Pre-requisites: BIOL 388, MATH 261 or MATH 301; a minimum of one Organismal Area course (BIOL 301, BIOL 306, BIOL 309, or BIOL 315), one Cell and Molecular Area course (BIOL 305, BIOL 324, BIOL 326, or BIOL 360) and one Ecology and Evolution Area course (BIOL 330, BIOL 341, BIOL 342, or BIOL 399); and completion of at least 3 credits in BIOL 400-490; or permission of instructor 3 credits.

BIOL489. Senior Assmnt & Prof Dev

This course is designed to provide guidance to students as they complete their final ePortfolio and prepare for future careers. Instruction and individualized guidance will be provided for the reflective writings and organization of the final ePortfolio. Other professional development skills including professional networking, application, and interview skills will also be discussed. Satisfactory completion of the ePortfolio and a program-defined assessment is required to pass this course. Students should complete this course during their last semester of coursework. Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: MATH 261 or MATH 301; a minimum of one Organismal Area course (BIOL 301, BIOL 306, BIOL 309, or BIOL 315), one Cell and Molecular Area course (BIOL 305, BIOL 324, BIOL 326, or BIOL 360) and one Ecology and Evolution Area course (BIOL 330, BIOL 341, BIOL 342, or BIOL 399); and completion of at least 3 credits in BIOL 400-491; or permission of instructor. 1 credit.

BIOL490. Directed or Independent Study

A directed project administered by qualified specialists in the department. By permission of instructor and must be approved by the head of the department. 1-12 credits.

BIOL492. Internship in Biology

A semester-long, on-the-job learning experience designed to apply the principles of biology. May be repeated. 1-5 credits.

BIOL494. Advanced Internship in Biology

A semester-long, on-the-job, learning experience designed to apply the principles of biology. May be a continuation of BIOL 492 or a new internship experience that involves advanced responsibilities and application of knowledge. May be repeated. 1-5 credits.

BIOL495. Special Topics Biology

Special Topics in Biology. Specialized courses on a variety of topics that may be offered periodically. 1-6 credits.

BIOL496. Research Projects in Biology

With the approval of a faculty member and the department chair, a student may carry out an individual research project. The nature of the project must be determined between the student and faculty member and approved by the department chair before the student may register for the course. May be repeated. 1-5 credits.

BIOL497. Advanced Research in Biology

With the approval of a faculty member and the department chair, a student may carry out an individual research project. May be a continuation of BIOL 496 or a new research project that involves advanced application of knowledge and skills. Students are encouraged to share the findings of their research through a poster of oral presentation. May be repeated. 1-5 credits.

BIOL498. Senior Thesis in Biology

Students conduct an in-depth project in Biology under the direction of a faculty member and the Longwood Senior Thesis Committee. May be repeated as 499. 3 credits.

BIOL499. Senior Thesis in Biology

Students conduct an in-depth project in biology under the direction of a faculty member and the Longwood Senior Thesis Committee. 3 credits.

BIOL4XX. Biology Elective