Courses
Biology Courses 2009-2010
BIOL 120 Studies in Biology 3 credits
An introduction to selected biological topics and the methods of science through an exploration of current topics such as evolution, bioethics and conservation biology. Students may only take this course once for credit.
BIOL 130 Environmental Biology 3 credits
An introduction to basic biological principles as they apply to interactions between organisms and their environment. Consideration is given to biotic and abiotic interactions, energy flow, biogeochemical cycling, population growth, biodiversity, basic cell biology, genetics, and evolution with a special emphasis on human impacts on these biological systems. This course establishes a strong foundation in applied biology from a scientific perspective.
BIOL 135 Environmental Biology Laboratory 1 credit
An experimental approach in both the field and laboratory to explore fundamental biological principles including biotic and abiotic interactions, energy flow, biogeochemical cycling, population growth, biodiversity, basic cell biology, genetics and evolution. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 130.
BIOL 150 Biological Principles (with laboratory) 4 credits
An introduction to the central unifying concepts of biology including the biochemical foundations of life, cell structure and function, cell metabolism, genetics, and evolution. Laboratories introduce students to the process and methods of science through investigative experiences. This course is designed for the science major. Prerequisites: A year of high school biology; and a year of high school chemistry or CHEM 111.
BIOL 151 Diversity and Patterns of Life (with laboratory) 4 credits
An overview of organismal diversity and ecology. Through a taxonomic survey, students are introduced to prokaryotic and eukaryotic diversity including microorganisms, plants, and animals. Organismic anatomy and physiology, as well as fundamentals of ecology, are also considered. Laboratories introduce students to the process and methods of science through investigative experiences. This course is designed for the science major. Prerequisites: A year of high school biology and a year of high school chemistry or CHEM 111.
BIOL 197 Special Topics 1-6 credits
BIOL 200 Environmental and Public Health 3 credits
An appraisal of man’s surroundings which influence his health, including an introduction to the societal structure designed to cope with health problems. Of particular benefit to those who plan to major in the social sciences or enter the field of public health.
BIOL 251 General Zoology (with laboratory) 4 credits
A survey of the field of zoology and its major subdisciplines. Consideration is given to the structure, function, taxonomy, and evolution of animals. Prerequisite: BIOL 150.
BIOL 297 Special Topics 1-6 credits
BIOL 300 Basic Nutrition 3 credits
An introduction to the science of human nutrition. Consideration is given to the chemical nature and functions of the major groups of nutrients, the function of the digestive system, energy metabolism and balance, weight control, and nutrition for fitness. Human nutrition during the life span is also addressed. Prerequisites: BIOL 130 or BIOL 150; and CHEM 101 or CHEM 111.
BIOL 301 General Ecology 3 credits
An introduction to basic ecological principles and their relationships to natural systems. Human impact on the natural systems is assessed. Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151; or permission of instructor.
BIOL 302 Ecology Laboratory and Recitation 2 credits
An experimental approach in both field and laboratory to explore fundamental ecological principles. Students gather and analyze data to address ecological hypotheses, learn practical ecological skills (performing field techniques, using statistical and graphical tools, and interpreting ecological software), and develop oral and written communication skills. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 151, and CHEM 113. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 301.
BIOL 310 Cell Biology 3 credits
An introduction to cellular function and structure. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 151, and CHEM 111.
BIOL 312 Genetics (with recitation) 4 credits
A course in Mendelian inheritance, linkage, chromosomal aberrations, molecular genetics, gene regulation, genetic engineering, and population genetics. Prerequisites: BIOL 301, BIOL 310, CHEM 105, and CHEM 109; or CHEM 331.
BIOL 313 Cell and Genetics Laboratory 2 credits
An introduction to experimentation and laboratory techniques used in cell biology, physiology, and genetics, including experimental design, data analysis, and presentation of research results. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 312.
BIOL 320 Ornithology (with laboratory and recitation) 4 credits
An introduction to the study of bird evolution, ecology, and conservation. This course has a strong field component providing frequent opportunities to observe birds in their native environments. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 322 Mammalogy (with laboratory and recitation) 4 credits
An introduction to the study of mammal taxonomy, evolution, ecology and conservation. Prerequisite: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 327 Field Entomology (with laboratory) 4 credits
An introduction to the world of the most diverse and abundant form of animal life on Earth through an experiential, field, and laboratory class. The course emphasizes field study, collection and preservation, identification, ecology, and natural history. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 340 Invertebrate Zoology (with laboratory) 4 credits
A comparative study of the structure, classification, physiology, and life history of representative invertebrates. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 342 Microbiology (with laboratory) 4 credits
An introduction to microbial morphology, identification, physiology, genetics, and microbiology laboratory techniques. A brief consideration is given to fungi. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202.
BIOL 352 Plant Anatomy and Morphology (with laboratory) 4 credits
An examination of plant anatomy and morphology. This course focuses on evolutionary trends and relationships of the mosses, liverworts, lower vascular plants, gymnosperms, and flowering plants as understood through comparative morphology and anatomy. Plant cells and tissues in relation to structure, function, and development are also explored. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 362 Evolutionary Biology 3 credits
A comprehensive synthesis of evolutionary processes and mechanisms. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 372 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (with laboratory) 4 credits
An introduction to regulatory mechanisms which maintain normal body function. Specific topics include cytology, histology, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system. The course is designed for allied health and exercise and sport science students. Prerequisites: BIOL 150; CHEM 105 or CHEM 111.
BIOL 373 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (with laboratory) 4 credits
A continuation of BIOL 372 Human Anatomy and Physiology I. Specific topics include immunology, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, digestive system, excretory system, reproductive system, and endocrine system. Prerequisite: BIOL 372.
BIOL 392 Independent Study in Biology 1-4 credits
A study in a specific area of biology under the direction of a faculty member. May be taken for a maximum of four credits. Graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only.
BIOL 397 Special Topics 1-6 credits
BIOL 420 Molecular Biology (with laboratory) 4 credits
A combination of lecture and laboratory work that explores the organization, expression, and regulation of genes at the molecular level. Recombinant DNA techniques are integrated into the laboratory exercises. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus, SCI 202, and CHEM 332; or CHEM 471.
BIOL 430 Wildlife Ecology and Management (with laboratory) 4 credits
Principles of ecology are applied to population and habitat management towards wildlife conservation. Tools used by wildlife biologists to restore endangered species, harvest sustainable populations, reduce overpopulated species, and to monitor and study populations are emphasized. Habitat management approaches are discussed, along with human dimensions in wildlife conservation. A field component allows students to investigate wildlife populations and habitat issues in the Gunnison Basin. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 435 Animal Behavior 3 credits
An introduction to the study of animal behavior. This course emphasizes the importance of ecology and evolution in understanding animal behavior. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 440 Conservation Biology 3 credits
This course addresses the reduction in biological diversity of the planet and suggested solutions to prevent further reduction. Integrating themes are drawn from scientific disciplines such as population genetics, ecology, evolutionary biology, botany, zoology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and wildlife management. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or ENVS 350, ENVS 370, ENVS 390, and either BIOL 151 or both BIOL 130 and BIOL 135; or instructor permission.
BIOL 444 Colorado Ecoregions 3 credits
A survey of the three main ecoregions of Colorado including the Great Plains, the Southern Rocky Mountains, and the Colorado Plateau. Students travel throughout Colorado and explore the ecology and natural history of the ecosystems by hiking, backpacking, and river rafting. Content includes an evolutionary perspective on ecosystem features and the adaptations of species characterizing each system, as well as applied issues in natural resources management. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus, SCI 202, and instructor permission.
BIOL 446 Mammalian Physiology (with laboratory) 4 credits
A study of the function of mammalian organ systems with emphasis upon the human. Prerequisites: BIOL 310 and PHYS 140.
BIOL 450 Histology (with laboratory) 4 credits
A comprehensive analysis of the structure and function of mammalian tissues and organs. Recommended for Biology majors and students interested in medical sciences. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 454 Vertebrate Embryology (with laboratory) 4 credits
An examination of the embryology of vertebrates, stressing mammalian embryonic development and comparisons with amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 462 Rocky Mountain Flora 3 credits
A field course introducing the principles of plant taxonomy involving collection, identification, naming, classification, and evolution of flowering plant groups represented in the Rocky Mountains. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 464 Plant Physiology (with laboratory) 4 credits
An examination of plant function with emphasis at the organismic level. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus, SCI 202, and PHYS 140.
BIOL 473 Desert Ecology 3 credits
An examination of the North American deserts including the physical environment and the ecology of desert organisms, communities, and ecosystems. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 474 Comparative Animal Physiology (with laboratory) 4 credits
An analysis of function in invertebrates and vertebrates, utilizing an environmental approach and emphasizing evolutionary trends in physiological systems. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus, SCI 202, and PHYS 140.
BIOL 475 Winter Ecology 3 credits
A study of the winter environment and how plants and animals endure a season of snow and ice. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus, SCI 202, and PHYS 140.
BIOL 476 Aquatic Ecology (with laboratory) 4 credits
A study of physical, chemical, and biological parameters of lakes and streams in the functioning of freshwater eco-systems. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or GEOL 320; or instructor permission.
BIOL 477 Plant Ecology (with laboratory) 4 credits
An introduction to plant populations and communities, including their role within terrestrial ecosystems. Prerequisite: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 478 Animal Ecology 3 credits
A course in the dynamics of animal populations in relation to the environment. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
BIOL 484 Advanced Human Anatomy (with laboratory) 4 credits
An advanced study of human gross anatomy, with a special emphasis on regional clinically significant anatomy and medical applications. The laboratory involves the dissection of human cadavers. Prerequisite: BIOL 454.
BIOL 495 Senior Seminar 1 credit
An examination of biological subdisciplines through an investigation of the primary literature. The professional practices, procedures, and standards of the subdiscipline are discussed. This course may be repeated for credit and must be taken twice to fulfill the Capstone Course requirement. Graded Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus, MATH 213, and SCI 202.
BIOL 496 Senior Thesis 2-4 credits
An advanced research experience resulting in a Senior Thesis, supervised by a thesis committee of three faculty members including at least one biologist. A proposal of the project must be approved by the thesis committee prior to project initiation. In addition to completing the written thesis, students must present the results of their work in a departmental seminar. This course satisfies the Capstone Course Requirement. Graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus, MATH 213, and SCI 202.
BIOL 497 Special Topics 1-6 credits
