Biology
Majors:
The Bachelor of Science in Biology and the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology may be pursued in conjuction with the Neuroscience co-major.
Minor:
The Bachelor of Science program in biology is designed to prepare a student for a career in the life sciences. Graduates of the program are competitive for entry into graduate programs in the biological sciences as well as professional schools, such as medical, dental, osteopathic, and veterinary science, as well as physician assistant (PA) and advanced nursing programs.
The department has two primary areas of focus:
- Basic biomedical science
- Environmental/ecological science
Biomedical science course offerings includes:
- Cancer Biology
- Cell biology
- Comparative and human anatomy
- General and medical microbiology
- Genetics and genetics of human disease
- Immunology
- Mammalian physiology
- Neurobiology and neurobiology of disease
Environmental/ecological science course offerings include:
- Biology of rivers and lakes
- Ecology
- Entomology
- Analysis of biological data
- Environmental ecology
- Herpetology
- Evolutionary biology
- Invertebrate and vertebrate zoology
In addition, advanced undergraduates may enroll in graduate courses for undergraduate credit. In line with the two areas of research interests, the department encourages students (in consultation with their advisors) to declare one of the two as an area of concentration of study no later than the end of their sophomore year. For the student more interested in a broad approach to biology, the department recommends a third option, the general biology option (any combination of upper-level biology courses that fulfills the program requirements).
The department offers a research mentorship program for upper-level students majoring in biology. The program allows a student to work closely with both faculty and graduate students in laboratory and/or field research. Participation in the program is based on the recommendation of a member of the faculty. The mentorship program is designed to provide a significant advantage for those students who intend to enter a graduate program.
The department also offers an accelerated Bachelor and Master of Science (BPM) program in Biology. This accelerated program offers the opportunity for students to complete the B.S. and M.S. degrees in five years and is designed for students who display strong potential for research in biology. It provides a liberal arts education, a broad background in biology, the development of expertise in a biological subfield, and a thorough introduction to research instrumentation and techniques. Graduates from the program are prepared for either direct entry into the job market or continuation toward the Ph.D.
A minor in biology consists of 20 semester hours.
A minor in neuroscience consists of 19 semester hours.
FACULTY LISTINGS
Bachelor of Science, Biology (BIO) minimum 120 hours
The Common Academic Program (CAP) is an innovative curriculum that is the foundation of a University of Dayton education. It is a learning experience that is shared in common among all undergraduate students, regardless of their major. Some CAP requirements must be fulfilled by courses taken at UD. Some major requirements must also be fulfilled by courses taken at UD. Students should consult with their advisor regarding applicability of transfer credit to fulfill CAP and major program requirements.
| Common Academic Program (CAP) 1 | ||
| First-Year Humanities Commons 2 | 6 cr. hrs. | |
| Chaminade Seminar: Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times | ||
| Marie Thérèse Seminar: Human Dignity and the Common Good | ||
| Second-Year Writing Seminar | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Oral Communication | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Mathematics | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Social Science | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Arts | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Natural Science 3 | 4 cr. hrs. | |
| Crossing Boundaries | 9 cr. hrs. | |
Faith Traditions (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
Practical Ethical Action (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
Interdisciplinary Investigations (3 cr. hrs.) 4 | ||
| Advanced Study | 9 cr. hrs. | |
Religious Studies (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
Philosophical Studies (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
Historical Studies (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
| Diversity and Social Justice 5 | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Major Capstone 6 | 0-6 cr. hrs. | |
| Experiential Learning 7 | 0-3 cr. hrs. | |
| 1 | The credit hours listed reflect what is needed to complete each CAP component. However, they should not be viewed as a cumulative addition to a student's degree requirements because many CAP courses are designed to satisfy more than one CAP component (e.g., Crossing Boundaries and Advanced Studies) and may also satisfy requirements in the student's major. |
| 2 | May be completed with ASI 110 through the Core Program. |
| 3 | Must include a lecture course and an accompanying lab. |
| 4 | New Crossing Boundaries category effective with the 2025-26 Catalog, which incorporates all courses previously approved in the Crossing Boundaries Inquiry or Integrative categories. This new category does not include any restriction that students must take the course outside of their unit or division. |
| 5 | May not double count with First-Year Humanities Commons, Second-Year Writing, Oral Communication, Social Science, or Natural Science CAP components, but may double count with courses taken to satisfy other CAP components and/or courses taken in the student's major. |
| 6 | The course or experience is designed by faculty in each major; it may, or may not, be assigned credit hours. |
| 7 | The course or experience will have variable credit, depending on the intensity and duration of the experience, or where it is housed in existing curricular and co-curricular spaces. |
| Science Breadth Requirements | 20 | |
| (Satisfies CAP Natural Science) | ||
| CHM 123 & 123L | General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory | 4 |
| CHM 124 & 124L | General Chemistry II and General Chemistry II Laboratory | 4 |
| CHM 313 & 313L | Organic Chemistry and Organic Chemistry Laboratory | 4 |
| CHM 314 & 314L | Organic Chemistry and Organic Chemistry Laboratory | 4 |
| PHY 201 & 201L | College Physics I and College Physics Laboratory I 1 | 4 |
| Math Requirements 2 | 6-8 | |
| (Satisfies CAP Mathematics) | ||
| Choose one math course from the following: | 3-4 | |
| Precalculus Math | ||
| Introductory Calculus I | ||
| Analytic Geometry & Calculus I | ||
| Choose one math course from the following: | 3-4 | |
| Introductory Calculus I | ||
| Introductory Calculus II | ||
| Analytic Geometry & Calculus I | ||
| Analytic Geometry & Calculus II | ||
| Introduction to Statistics | ||
| Statistical Methods I | ||
| Major Requirements 3 | 41 | |
| BIO 151 & 151L | Concepts of Biology I: Cellular & Molecular Biology and Concepts of Biology Laboratory I: Cellular & Molecular Biology | 4 |
| BIO 152 & 152L | Concepts of Biology II: Evolution & Ecology and Concepts of Biology Laboratory II: Evolution & Ecology | 4 |
| BIO 299 | Biology Seminar | 1 |
| BIO 310 | Ecology | 3 |
| BIO 312 | General Genetics | 3 |
| BIO 420 | Biology Capstone Seminar (Satisfies Cap Major Capstone) | 1 |
| Select two environmental/ecological courses from: 4 | 7 | |
| Trees of Ohio | ||
| Evolution and Evolution Laboratory | ||
| Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates and Comparative Anatomy Laboratory | ||
| Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Introductory Entomology | ||
| Genetics Laboratory | ||
| Plant Biology and Plant Biology Laboratory | ||
| Marine Biology and Marine Biology Laboratory | ||
| Applied and Environmental Microbiology | ||
| Sustainability & the Biosphere | ||
| Conservation Biology | ||
| Vertebrate Zoology and Vertebrate Zoology Laboratory | ||
| Plant Diversity & Ecology and Plant Diversity & Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Ecological Restoration and Ecological Restoration Laboratory | ||
| General Microbiology and General Microbiology Laboratory | ||
| Biological Problems 5 | ||
| Herpetology and Herpetology Laboratory | ||
| Microbial Ecology and Microbial Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data | ||
| Evolution & Development | ||
| Comparative Animal Physiology and Comparative Animal Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Biology of Rivers & Lakes and Biology of Rivers & Lakes Laboratory | ||
| Environmental Ecology and Environmental Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Invertebrate Zoology and Invertebrate Zoology Laboratory | ||
| Principles of Microscopy and Principles of Microscopy Laboratory | ||
| Mycology | ||
| Special Topics Laboratory in Biology | ||
| Select two basic biomedical courses from: 4 | 7 | |
| Evolution and Evolution Laboratory | ||
| Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates and Comparative Anatomy Laboratory | ||
| Introductory Entomology | ||
| Genetics Laboratory | ||
| Applied and Environmental Microbiology | ||
| Physiology I and Physiology Laboratory I | ||
| Physiology II | ||
| General Microbiology and General Microbiology Laboratory | ||
| Genetics Human Diseases | ||
| Virology | ||
| Neurobiology and Neurobiology Laboratory | ||
| Neurobiology of Disease | ||
| Biomedical Pharmacology | ||
| Biological Problems 5 | ||
| Immunology and Immunology Laboratory | ||
| Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data | ||
| Cell Biology and Cell Biology Laboratory | ||
| Developmental Biology and Developmental Biology Laboratory | ||
| Evolution & Development | ||
| Introduction to Bioinformatics | ||
| Invertebrate Zoology and Invertebrate Zoology Laboratory | ||
| Molecular Biology | ||
| Disease Ecology | ||
| Biology of Infectious Disease | ||
| Cancer Biology | ||
| Human Anatomy and Human Anatomy Laboratory | ||
| Principles of Microscopy and Principles of Microscopy Laboratory | ||
| Mycology | ||
| Special Topics Laboratory in Biology | ||
| Biochemistry | ||
| Select three electives, two with accompanying labs, from the groups above. | 11 | |
| Breadth | ||
| ASI 150 | Introduction to the University Experience | 1 |
| Social & Behavioral Sciences (includes CAP Social Science) | 6 | |
| Total Hours to total at least | 120 | |
| 1 | Students are encouraged to take PHY 202 and PHY 202L to meet the health professional school admission requirement. |
| 2 | A minimum of two different math courses is required. One course needs to be Pre-calculus (MTH 116) or Calculus I (MTH 148 or MTH 168). The second course can be Calculus I (MTH 148 or MTH 168), Calculus II (MTH 149 or MTH 169), or a statistics course (MTH 207 or MTH 367). |
| 3 | The biology curriculum contains some laboratory courses in which dissection and vivisection are necessary and required in order to convey an understanding of certain biological concepts. All students are expected to participate in such laboratory exercises in the introductory biology sequence, BIO 151L and BIO 152L, which involve dissection and/or vivisection. In other elective laboratory courses in which dissection and vivisection occur, it is expected that students will participate in all aspects of the laboratory. No alternatives to dissection or vivisection will be offered in these courses. It is ultimately the responsibility of students to make certain that they enroll in courses in which they are able to participate in all required exercises and obtain information from each instructor as to the specific laboratory course content and requirements. The Department of Biology maintains an updated list of laboratory courses in which dissection and/or vivisection is required in order to assist students in the selection of course work. The Department of Biology supports national standards established by the National Institutes of Health for the responsible, humane treatment and housing of animals. |
| 4 | One with accompanying laboratory. |
| 5 | By permission only. Qualifies as a laboratory elective for any category. |
Bachelor of Science, Environmental Biology (EVB) minimum 120 hours
Environmental biology is a science specialization based upon the fundamentals of biology and ecology, applying interdisciplinary skills, knowledge, and principles to the environmental problems facing society today. Students entering this dynamic field could become directly involved in addressing some of the significant global problems related to human impact on the environment. In addition to the standard base of courses required of most biology majors, the curriculum also requires a challenging core of environmentally related science courses and course work drawn from a multidisciplinary elective pool that includes offerings in the humanities and social sciences.
Internship Program: Majors will participate in the EVB internship program (BIO 499, see course prerequisites), where they will have the unique opportunity to obtain valuable training and experience under the mentorship of established scientists and other environmental professionals.
The Common Academic Program (CAP) is an innovative curriculum that is the foundation of a University of Dayton education. It is a learning experience that is shared in common among all undergraduate students, regardless of their major. Some CAP requirements must be fulfilled by courses taken at UD. Some major requirements must also be fulfilled by courses taken at UD. Students should consult with their advisor regarding applicability of transfer credit to fulfill CAP and major program requirements.
| Common Academic Program (CAP) 1 | ||
| First-Year Humanities Commons 2 | 6 cr. hrs. | |
| Chaminade Seminar: Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times | ||
| Marie Thérèse Seminar: Human Dignity and the Common Good | ||
| Second-Year Writing Seminar | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Oral Communication | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Mathematics | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Social Science | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Arts | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Natural Science 3 | 4 cr. hrs. | |
| Crossing Boundaries | 9 cr. hrs. | |
Faith Traditions (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
Practical Ethical Action (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
Interdisciplinary Investigations (3 cr. hrs.) 4 | ||
| Advanced Study | 9 cr. hrs. | |
Religious Studies (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
Philosophical Studies (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
Historical Studies (3 cr. hrs.) | ||
| Diversity and Social Justice 5 | 3 cr. hrs. | |
| Major Capstone 6 | 0-6 cr. hrs. | |
| Experiential Learning 7 | 0-3 cr. hrs. | |
| 1 | The credit hours listed reflect what is needed to complete each CAP component. However, they should not be viewed as a cumulative addition to a student's degree requirements because many CAP courses are designed to satisfy more than one CAP component (e.g., Crossing Boundaries and Advanced Studies) and may also satisfy requirements in the student's major. |
| 2 | May be completed with ASI 110 through the Core Program. |
| 3 | Must include a lecture course and an accompanying lab. |
| 4 | New Crossing Boundaries category effective with the 2025-26 Catalog, which incorporates all courses previously approved in the Crossing Boundaries Inquiry or Integrative categories. This new category does not include any restriction that students must take the course outside of their unit or division. |
| 5 | May not double count with First-Year Humanities Commons, Second-Year Writing, Oral Communication, Social Science, or Natural Science CAP components, but may double count with courses taken to satisfy other CAP components and/or courses taken in the student's major. |
| 6 | The course or experience is designed by faculty in each major; it may, or may not, be assigned credit hours. |
| 7 | The course or experience will have variable credit, depending on the intensity and duration of the experience, or where it is housed in existing curricular and co-curricular spaces. |
| Science Breadth Requirements | ||
| (Satisfies CAP Mathematics and CAP Natural Science) | ||
| CHM 123 & 123L | General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory | 4 |
| CHM 124 & 124L | General Chemistry II and General Chemistry II Laboratory | 4 |
| GIS 450 | Applied Geographic Information Systems | 4 |
| Select two Mathematics courses from: 1 | 6-7 | |
| Precalculus Math | ||
| Introductory Calculus I | ||
| Introductory Calculus II | ||
| Introduction to Statistics | ||
| Exploratory Data Analysis | ||
| Statistical Methods I | ||
| Supporting Science Elective Courses: Select 4 lectures and 2 labs | 14 | |
| Organic Chemistry and Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Organic Chemistry and Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| College Physics I and College Physics Laboratory I | ||
| College Physics II and College Physics Laboratory II | ||
| Physical Geology and Physical Geology Laboratory | ||
| Geological History of the Earth and Geological History of the Earth Laboratory | ||
| Environmental Geology and Environmental Geology Laboratory | ||
| Major Requirements 1 | 39 | |
| BIO 151 & 151L | Concepts of Biology I: Cellular & Molecular Biology and Concepts of Biology Laboratory I: Cellular & Molecular Biology | 4 |
| BIO 152 & 152L | Concepts of Biology II: Evolution & Ecology and Concepts of Biology Laboratory II: Evolution & Ecology | 4 |
| BIO 299 | Biology Seminar | 1 |
| BIO 310 & 310L | Ecology and Ecology Laboratory | 4 |
| BIO 312 | General Genetics | 3 |
| BIO 420 | Biology Capstone Seminar (Satisfies CAP Major Capstone) | 1 |
| BIO 479L | Environmental Biology Research Methods Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 499 | Environmental Biology Internship 2 | 2 |
| Environmental and Ecological Courses: Select 5 lectures and 4 labs: | 19 | |
| Trees of Ohio | ||
| Evolution and Evolution Laboratory | ||
| Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates and Comparative Anatomy Laboratory | ||
| Introductory Entomology | ||
| Genetics Laboratory | ||
| Plant Biology and Plant Biology Laboratory | ||
| Marine Biology and Marine Biology Laboratory | ||
| Applied and Environmental Microbiology | ||
| Sustainability & the Biosphere | ||
| Conservation Biology | ||
| Vertebrate Zoology and Vertebrate Zoology Laboratory | ||
| Plant Diversity & Ecology and Plant Diversity & Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Ecological Restoration and Ecological Restoration Laboratory | ||
| General Microbiology and General Microbiology Laboratory | ||
| Biological Problems 3 | ||
| Herpetology and Herpetology Laboratory | ||
| Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data | ||
| Evolution & Development | ||
| Comparative Animal Physiology and Comparative Animal Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Biology of Rivers & Lakes and Biology of Rivers & Lakes Laboratory | ||
| Environmental Ecology and Environmental Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Invertebrate Zoology and Invertebrate Zoology Laboratory | ||
| Honors Thesis Project | ||
| Mycology | ||
| Special Topics Laboratory in Biology | ||
| Breadth | ||
| ASI 150 | Introduction to the University Experience | 1 |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences | 6 | |
| Total Hours to total at least | 120 | |
| 1 | Other appropriate courses may be substituted with the approval of the EVB Program Director or Department Chairperson. |
| 2 | BIO 499 requires the permission of the EVB Program Director. |
| 3 | BIO 421 is permission only. Qualifies as a laboratory elective. |
Neuroscience (NSC) Co-Major
The undergraduate Neuroscience Co-Major program is designed for students with academic and/or professional interests in the Neurosciences. This interdisciplinary Co-Major program must be pursued in conjunction with another primary major at the University of Dayton and aims to provide breadth and depth in the field of Neuroscience that complements the student’s primary field of study. The Neuroscience Co-Major involves foundational and upper-level coursework in Biology, Psychology, Chemistry and Statistics, as well as electives in Philosophy, Health Sports & Sciences, Computer Science and Social Work. The Neuroscience Co-Major is housed in the Biology Department and is directed by the Neuroscience Programs Coordinator.
| MAJOR REQUIREMENTS 1,2,3,4 | ||
| Foundational Biology and Chemistry | ||
| Required Courses: | 14 | |
| BIO 151 | Concepts of Biology I: Cellular & Molecular Biology | 3 |
| BIO 151L | Concepts of Biology Laboratory I: Cellular & Molecular Biology | 1 |
| BIO 152 | Concepts of Biology II: Evolution & Ecology | 3 |
| BIO 152L | Concepts of Biology Laboratory II: Evolution & Ecology | 1 |
| CHM 123 | General Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHM 124 | General Chemistry II | 3 |
| Statistics | ||
| Select one of the following courses: | 3 | |
| MTH 367 | Statistical Methods I | 3 |
| or MTH 207 | Introduction to Statistics | |
| or PSY 216 | Elementary Statistics | |
| Non-BIO Elective Course | ||
| Select at least one course from the following: | 3 | |
| PHL 308 | Metaphysics in Context | 3 |
| PHL 309 | Philosophy of Mind | 3 |
| PHL 333 | Philosophy & Cognitive Science | 3 |
| PHL 383 | Ethics of Scientific Research | 3 |
| PSY 443 | Women, Gender, and Psychology | 3 |
| MTH 208 | Exploratory Data Analysis | 3 |
| MTH 209 | Data Manipulation and Management | 3 |
| MTH 369 | Regression Models for Data Analytics | 3 |
| SWK 307 | Mental Health Services | 3 |
| CPS 150 | Algorithms & Programming I | 4 |
| or CPS 151 | Algorithms & Programming II | |
| Neuroscience Hours 1,4 | ||
| Required Courses: | 8 | |
| BIO 415 | Neurobiology | 3 |
| BIO 415L | Neurobiology Laboratory | 1 |
| or BIO 416 | Neuroscience Seminar | |
| BIO 403 | Physiology I | 3 |
| or HSS 307 | Human Physiology | |
| BIO 403L | Physiology Laboratory I | 1 |
| or HSS 307L | Physiology Laboratory | |
| Select at least two upper-level Biomedical courses from the following: | 6 | |
| BIO 404 | Physiology II | 3 |
| BIO 411 | General Microbiology | 3 |
| BIO 412 | Genetics Human Diseases | 3 |
| BIO 417 | Neurobiology of Disease | 3 |
| BIO 418 | Biomedical Pharmacology | 3 |
| BIO 427 | Immunology | 3 |
| BIO 439 | Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data | 3 |
| BIO 440 | Cell Biology | 3 |
| BIO 442 | Developmental Biology | 3 |
| BIO 445 | Evolution & Development | 3 |
| BIO 462 | Molecular Biology | 3 |
| BIO 475 | Human Anatomy | 3 |
| or HSS 305 | Human Anatomy | |
| CHM 420 | Biochemistry | 3 |
| or CHM 451 | General Biochemistry I | |
| or CHM 452 | General Biochemistry II | |
| CHM 454 | Rational Drug Design | 3 |
| Select at least two upper-level Psychology courses from the following: | 6 | |
| PSY 321 | Cognition | 3 |
| PSY 322 | Learning | 3 |
| PSY 323 | Psychology of Perception | 3 |
| PSY 355 | Developmental Psychopathology | 3 |
| PSY 363 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 422 | Biopsychology | 3 |
| Total Hours | 40 | |
1In order to complete the Neuroscience Co-Major program students of different majors need: to complete all the listed curricular requirements and take at least 12 discrete 300/400 Neuroscience hours, above and beyond the requirements of their primary major. BIO 415 is to be included in the 12 discrete hours and not apply to any requirement in the primary major.
2 CHM123L, CHM124L, CHM313, CHM313L, CHM314, CHM314L, PHY201, PHY201L, PHY202, PHY202L are strongly recommended, but not required courses for the Neuroscience Co-Major.
3 Students who wish to declare the Neuroscience Co-Major need to contact the Neuroscience Programs Coordinator.
4 Additional courses may be approved by the Neuroscience Programs Coordinator.
Minor in Biology (BIO)
| Biology | ||
| BIO 151 & 151L | Concepts of Biology I: Cellular & Molecular Biology and Concepts of Biology Laboratory I: Cellular & Molecular Biology | 4 |
| BIO 152 & 152L | Concepts of Biology II: Evolution & Ecology and Concepts of Biology Laboratory II: Evolution & Ecology | 4 |
| BIO 310 | Ecology | 3 |
| BIO 312 | General Genetics | 3 |
| Select two BIO courses (300/400 level) | 6 | |
| Total Hours | 20 | |
Minor in Neuroscience (NSC)
The Neuroscience minor is designed for students with academic and/or professional interests in the field of Neuroscience. Upon completion of the Neuroscience minor students will: i) gain strong foundational knowledge of the biological functions of the nervous system and its relationship to behavior and brain disorders; ii) demonstrate knowledge of the grand challenges and questions facing modern experimental neuroscience; and iii) develop an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of this fascinating scientific field. The Neuroscience minor is housed in the Biology Department. Students can earn this minor by completing two core Neuroscience courses, introductory Psychology, two upper-level Biomedical elective courses and two upper-level Psychology elective courses from the course list below for a total of 19 credit hours. Students who wish to minor in Neuroscience should contact the Neuroscience Minor Coordinator.
| Required Courses 1,2 | ||
| BIO 415 | Neurobiology | 3 |
| BIO 415L | Neurobiology Laboratory | 1 |
| or BIO 416 | Neuroscience Seminar | |
| PSY 101 | Introductory Psychology | 3 |
| Select two Biomedical courses from the following: 1,2 | 6 | |
| Physiology I | ||
or HSS 307 | Human Physiology | |
| Physiology II | ||
| General Microbiology | ||
| Genetics Human Diseases | ||
| Neurobiology of Disease | ||
| Biomedical Pharmacology | ||
| Immunology | ||
| Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data | ||
| Cell Biology | ||
| Evolution & Development | ||
| Developmental Biology | ||
| Molecular Biology | ||
| Human Anatomy | ||
or HSS 305 | Human Anatomy | |
| Biochemistry | ||
or CHM 451 | General Biochemistry I | |
or CHM 452 | General Biochemistry II | |
| Select two Psychology courses from the following: 1,2 | 6 | |
| Cognition | ||
| Learning | ||
| Psychology of Perception | ||
| Developmental Psychopathology | ||
| Abnormal Psychology | ||
| Biopsychology | ||
| Total Hours | 19 | |
| 1 | Students who wish to minor in Neuroscience should contact the Neuroscience Minor Coordinator. |
| 2 | Additional courses may be approved by the Neuroscience Minor Coordinator. |
Minor in Research in Biological Sciences (BIR)
Research in the Biological Sciences is a minor for students with academic and/or professional interest that can be advanced by research-focused coursework and through extensive faculty-mentored scientific research in biology. Students completing the Research in Biological Sciences minor will: i) gain strong foundational knowledge of the practice of scientific research in the Biological Sciences; ii) become adept in the consumption and discussion of contemporary biological research, iii) develop an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of scientific research in Biology, and iv) demonstrate the ability to translate knowledge acquired in the research lab to the public through professional presentation and/or scientific writing. The Research in the Biological Sciences minor is housed in the Biology Department. Students can earn this minor by completing required and elective coursework and completing a research project mentored by a Biology Department faculty member.
To complete this minor, 12 credits are required in addition to a student's major degree program(s). The student must complete four credits in BIO 422, three credits in BIO 300, and one credit in BIO 421. These will typically be taken as one credit hour offerings in different semesters over the student's Junior and Senior years. For example, the student may enroll in their faculty mentor's section of BIO 422 (1 cr) and 300 (1 cr) in the fall of their Junior year, spring of Junior year, and fall of Senior year, then enroll in BIO 422 (1 cr) and BIO 421 (1 cr) in the spring of their Senior year. The minor does not exclude other arrangements of credits (e.g., for credit summer offerings). In addition, the student must complete one upper division elective lecture in BIO and one upper division elective lab in BIO that must be in addition to the requirements of the degree program. Students must complete prerequisites for all courses.
Required Courses
| BIO 422 | Biological Problems Repeat to earn 4 credits | 1-2 |
| BIO 300 | Research Experience in Biology Repeat to earn 3 credits | 0-1 |
| BIO 421 | Biological Problems | 1 |
Select one 400-level Biology lecture course from:
| BIO 402 | Vertebrate Zoology | 3 |
| BIO 403 | Physiology I | 3 |
| BIO 404 | Physiology II | 3 |
| BIO 407 | Plant Diversity & Ecology | 3 |
| BIO 409 | Ecological Restoration | 3 |
| BIO 411 | General Microbiology | 3 |
| BIO 412 | Genetics Human Diseases | 3 |
| BIO 414 | Virology | 3 |
| BIO 415 | Neurobiology | 3 |
| BIO 417 | Neurobiology of Disease | 3 |
| BIO 418 | Biomedical Pharmacology | 3 |
| BIO 426 | Herpetology | 3 |
| BIO 427 | Immunology | 3 |
| BIO 439 | Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data | 3 |
| BIO 440 | Cell Biology | 3 |
| BIO 442 | Developmental Biology | 3 |
| BIO 445 | Evolution & Development | 3 |
| BIO 452 | Biology of Rivers & Lakes | 3 |
| BIO 459 | Environmental Ecology | 3 |
| BIO 461 | Invertebrate Zoology | 3 |
| BIO 462 | Molecular Biology | 3 |
| BIO 466 | Biology of Infectious Disease | 3 |
| BIO 470 | Cancer Biology | 3 |
| BIO 475 | Human Anatomy | 3 |
| BIO 480 | Principles of Microscopy | 3 |
Select one 400-level Biology laboratory course from:
| BIO 402L | Vertebrate Zoology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 403L | Physiology Laboratory I | 1 |
| BIO 407L | Plant Diversity & Ecology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 409L | Ecological Restoration Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 411L | General Microbiology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 415L | Neurobiology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 425L | Parasitology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 426L | Herpetology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 427L | Immunology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 440L | Cell Biology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 442L | Developmental Biology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 452L | Biology of Rivers & Lakes Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 459L | Environmental Ecology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 461L | Invertebrate Zoology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 475L | Human Anatomy Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 480L | Principles of Microscopy Laboratory | 1 |
Biology
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| ASI 150 | 1 | BIO 152 & 152L | 4 |
| BIO 151 & 151L (CAP Natural Science w/lab) | 4 | CHM 124 & 124L | 4 |
| CHM 123 & 123L | 4 | MTH 149 or 207 | 3 |
| MTH 148 (Satisfies CAP Mathematics) | 3 | HUM 102 | 3 |
| HUM 101 | 3 | CAP Social Science | 3 |
| 15 | 17 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO 299 | 1 | BIO 310 | 3 |
| BIO 312 | 3 | CHM 314 & 314L | 4 |
| CHM 313 & 313L | 4 | CMM 100 (CAP Oral Communication) | 3 |
| PHY 201 & 201L | 4 | Social Science Elective | 3 |
| ENG 200 (CAP Second-Year Writing) | 3 | CAP Faith Traditions | 3 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO Elective Biomed | 3 | BIO Elective Env/Eco | 3 |
| BIO Elective Env/Eco w/lab | 4 | BIO Elective Biomed w/lab | 4 |
| CAP Arts | 3 | CAP Advanced Philosophy Studies | 3 |
| CAP Diversity and Social Justice | 3 | CAP Interdisciplinary Investigations | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Historical Studies | 3 | General Elective | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO Elective w/lab | 4 | BIO Elective w/lab | 4 |
| BIO Elective | 3 | BIO 420 (Satisfies CAP Major Capstone) | 1 |
| CAP Practical Ethical Action | 3 | General Elective | 3 |
| Advanced Religious Studies | 3 | General Elective | 3 |
| General Elective | 1 | ||
| 13 | 12 | ||
| Total credit hours: 120 | |||
Environmental Biology
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| ASI 150 | 1 | BIO 152 & 152L | 4 |
| BIO 151 & 151L (CAP Natural Science w/lab) | 4 | CHM 124 & 124L | 4 |
| CHM 123 & 123L | 4 | MTH 149 or 207 | 3 |
| MTH 148 (Satisfies CAP Mathematics) | 3 | HUM 102 | 3 |
| HUM 101 | 3 | CAP Social Science | 3 |
| 15 | 17 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO 310 & 310L | 4 | BIO 299 | 1 |
| Supporting Science Elective and Laboratory | 4 | BIO 312 | 3 |
| ANT 150 (Satisfies CAP Interdisciplinary Investigations, Diversity and Social Justice, Social Science elective) | 3 | Supporting Science Elective and Laboratory | 4 |
| ENG 200 (CAP Second-Year Writing) | 3 | CMM 100 (CAP Oral Communication) | 3 |
| General Elective | 3 | CAP Faith Traditions | 3 |
| 17 | 14 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| Environmental & Ecological Lecture | 3 | Environmental & Ecological Lecture | 3 |
| Environmental & Ecological Lab | 1 | Environmental & Ecological Lab | 1 |
| Supporting Science Elective | 3 | Supporting Science Elective | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Philosophical Studies | 3 | GIS 450 | 4 |
| CAP Practical Ethical Action | 3 | CAP Arts | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Historical Studies | 3 | ||
| 16 | 14 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO 479L | 1 | BIO 499 | 2 |
| BIO 420 (Satisfies CAP Major Capstone) | 1 | Environmental & Ecological Lecture | 3 |
| Environmental & Ecological Lecture | 3 | Environmental & Ecological Lab | 1 |
| Environmental & Ecological Lab | 1 | General Elective | 3 |
| Environmental & Ecological Lecture | 3 | General Elective | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Religious Studies | 3 | General Elective | 3 |
| 12 | 15 | ||
| Total credit hours: 120 | |||
Neuroscience Co-Major
The interdisciplinary Neuroscience co-major program offered by the Department of Biology complements a wide range of primary majors, including but not limited to the following: Biology (BIO), Premedicine (MED), Predentistry (DEN), Biochemistry (BCM), Psychology (PSY), and Health Science/Integrative Physiology Concentration (HSC/IPH). Students pursuing the Neuroscience (NSC) co-major must be concurrently enrolled in and successfully complete another primary major at the University of Dayton; upon graduation, students receive the degree designation of their primary major with the co-major being listed on the transcript. Students who wish to declare the Neuroscience co-major need to contact the Neuroscience Programs Coordinator. Representative sample plans of study for students pursuing majors in BIO, MED/DEN, BCM, PSY, HSC/IPH in conjunction with the NSC co-major can be found below.
Biology (BIO), BS
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| ASI 150 | 1 | BIO 152 & 152L | 4 |
| BIO 151 & 151L | 4 | CHM 124 & 124L | 4 |
| CHM 123 & 123L | 4 | MTH 207 | 3 |
| MTH 148 | 3 | HUM 102 | 3 |
| HUM 101 | 3 | PSY 101 | 3 |
| 15 | 17 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO 299 | 1 | BIO 310 | 3 |
| BIO 312 | 3 | CHM 314 & 314L | 4 |
| CHM 313 & 313L | 4 | CMM 100 | 3 |
| PHY 201 & 201L | 4 | PSY Elective 1 | 3 |
| ENG 200 | 3 | Non-BIO Neuroscience Elective | 3 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO 403 (BIO Biomed Elective) | 3 | Env/Eco Elective | 3 |
| BIO 403L (BIO Biomed Lab Elective) | 1 | BIO 415 | 3 |
| Env/Eco Elective + Lab | 4 | BIO 415L (BIO Biomed Lab Elective) | 1 |
| CAP Arts | 3 | Biomedical Elective 1 | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Historical Studies | 3 | CAP Interdisciplinary Investigations | 3 |
| PSY Elective 2 | 3 | ||
| 14 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO Elective w/ Lab | 4 | BIO 420 (Satisfies CAP Major Capstone) | 1 |
| BIO Elective | 3 | BIO Elective w/ Lab | 4 |
| CAP Practical Ethical Action | 3 | CAP Advanced Religious Studies | 3 |
| Biomedical Elective 2 | 3 | CAP Faith Traditions | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Philosophical Studies | 3 | CAP Diversity and Social Justice | 3 |
| 16 | 14 | ||
| Total credit hours: 123 | |||
Premedicine (MED / Predentistry (DEN), BS
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| ASI 150 | 1 | BIO 152 & 152L | 4 |
| BIO 151 & 151L | 4 | CHM 124 & 124L | 4 |
| CHM 123 & 123L | 4 | MTH 207 | 3 |
| MTH 148 | 3 | HUM 102 | 3 |
| HUM 101 | 3 | PSY 101 | 3 |
| 15 | 17 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| CHM 313 & 313L | 4 | CHM 314 & 314L | 4 |
| PHY 201 & 201L | 4 | PHY 202 & 202L | 4 |
| ENG 200 | 3 | CMM 100 | 3 |
| MED 299 | 1 | MED 230 or 339 | 1 |
| PSY Elective 1 | 3 | PSY Elective 2 | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| CHM 420 & 420L | 4 | MED 480 (Satisfies CAP Major Capstone) | 1 |
| BIO 415 | 3 | Biomedical Elective 1 | 3 |
| BIO 415L or 416 | 1 | Biomedical Science Elective | 3 |
| Biomedical Science Elective | 3 | PHL 312, 315, REL 365, or REL 367 (Satisfies CAP Practical Ethical Action and Advanced Philosophical Studies or Advanced Religious Studies) | 3 |
| English Elective (300-400 level) | 3 | Social Science Elective | 3 |
| CAP Arts | 3 | ||
| 14 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO 403 & 403L (Science Elective w/ Lab) | 4 | Biomedical Science Elective w/ Lab | 4 |
| CAP Faith Traditions | 3 | Non-Biology Elective | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Historical Studies | 3 | CAP Diversity and Social Justice | 3 |
| Biomedical Elective 2 | 3 | CAP Interdisciplinary Investigations | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Philosophical Studies or Advanced Religious StudiesWhichever has not been completed | 3 | ||
| 13 | 16 | ||
| Total credit hours: 121 | |||
Biochemistry (BCM), BS
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| ASI 150 | 1 | CHM 124 & 124L | 4 |
| CHM 123 & 123L | 4 | BIO 151 & 151L | 4 |
| MTH 148 or 168 | 3-4 | MTH 149 or 169 | 3-4 |
| HUM 101 | 3 | HUM 102 | 3 |
| PSY 101 | 3 | CMM 100 | 3 |
| CHM 190 | 0 | ||
| 14-15 | 17-18 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| CHM 313 & 313L | 4 | CHM 314 & 314L | 4 |
| PHY 201 & 201L (Or PHY 206/PHY 210L) | 4 | CHM 201 & 201L | 4 |
| ENG 200 | 3 | PHY 202 & 202L | 4 |
| BIO 152 & 152L | 4 | BIO 415 | 3 |
| CAP Interdisciplinary Investigations | 3 | BIO 415L or 416 | 1 |
| 18 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| CHM 303 & 303L | 4 | CHM 304 | 3 |
| CHM 451 | 3 | CHM 452 & CHM 462L | 4 |
| BIO 403 & 403L (CHM/BIO Elective) | 4 | CHM 317 | 1 |
| CAP Arts | 3 | CHM/BIO Elective | 3 |
| MTH 367 | 3 | PSY Elective (Social Science Elective) | 3 |
| CAP Faith Traditions | 3 | ||
| 17 | 17 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BIO/CHM Elective w/ Lab | 4 | CHM 490 (Satisfies CAP Major Capstone) | 1 |
| CAP Advanced Historical Studies | 3 | BIO/CHM Elective | 3 |
| CAP Diversity and Social Justice | 3 | CAP Advanced Philosophical Studies | 3 |
| Non-Biology Neuroscience Elective | 3 | CAP Advanced Religious Studies | 3 |
| CAP Practical Ethical Action | 3 | PSY Elective | 3 |
| Neuroscience Course (300/400 level) | 3 | ||
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Total credit hours: 131-133 | |||
Psychology (PSY), BS
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| ASI 150 | 1 | MTH 148 | 3 |
| BIO 151 & 151L | 4 | BIO 152 & 152L | 4 |
| HUM 101 | 3 | PSY 341, 351, 361, or 353 | 3 |
| MTH 116 | 4 | HUM 102 | 3 |
| PSY 101 | 3 | CMM 100 | 3 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| PSY 201 | 1 | PSY 321, 322, 323, or 422 | 3 |
| PSY 216 | 3 | PSY 217 | 3 |
| PSY 341, 351, 361, or 363 | 3 | ENG 200 | 3 |
| BS Social Science Elective | 3 | CHM 124 & 124L | 4 |
| CHM 123 & 123L | 4 | HSS 305 (NSC Biomedical Elective) | 3 |
| 14 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| PSY 321, 322, 323, or 422 | 3 | PSY Elective (300/400 level) | 3 |
| Non-Biology Neuroscience Elective | 3 | BIO 415 | 3 |
| PSY Elective (300/400 level) | 3 | BIO 415L or 416 | 1 |
| HSS 307 & 307L | 4 | NSC Biomedical Elective | 3 |
| CAP Interdisciplinary Investigations | 3 | CAP Advanced Philosophical Studies | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Religious Studies | 3 | ||
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| PSY 471, 478, 480, 496, or 499 (Satisfies CAP Major Capstone) | 3 | PSY Elective (300/400 level) | 3 |
| PSY Elective (300/400 level) | 3 | CAP Diversity and Social Justice | 3 |
| CAP Advanced Historical Studies | 3 | BS Social Science Elective (other than PSY) | 3 |
| BS Social Science Elective (other than PSY) | 3 | CAP Faith Traditions | 3 |
| CAP Arts | 3 | CAP Practical Ethical Action | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total credit hours: 123 | |||
Health Science/Integrative Physiology Concentration (HSC/IPH), BSHS
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| HSS 101 | 1 | HSS 201 | 2 |
| HSS 102 | 2 | BIO 152 & 152L | 4 |
| BIO 151 & 151L | 4 | CHM 124 & 124L | 4 |
| CHM 123 & 123L | 4 | MTH 148 | 3 |
| HUM 101 | 3 | HUM 102 | 3 |
| 14 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| HSS 295 | 3 | CHM 314 & 314L | 4 |
| CHM 313 & 313L | 4 | ENG 200 | 3 |
| PSY 101 | 3 | HSS 305 & 305L | 4 |
| MTH 207 | 3 | PSY 251 | 3 |
| PSY Elective (300/400 level) | 3 | PHL 315 or REL 367 | 3 |
| 16 | 17 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| HSS 307 & 307L | 4 | Biomedical Elective 1 | 3 |
| PHY 201 & 201L | 4 | BIO 312 | 3 |
| CHM 420 | 3 | BIO 411 | 3 |
| BIO 415 | 3 | PHY 202 & 202L | 4 |
| BIO 415L or 416 | 1 | HSS 465 (Satisfies CAP Major Capstone) | 1 |
| Lab Elective | 1 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| CAP Advanced Historical Studies | 3 | CAP Arts | 3 |
| CAP Faith Traditions | 3 | CAP Diversity and Social Justice/Advanced Philosophical Studies or Advanced Religious Studies | 3 |
| HSS 408 & 408L | 4 | Non-Biology Elective | 3 |
| HSS 428 | 3 | PSY Elective (300/400 level) | 3 |
| Biomedical Elective 2 | 3 | ENG 373 or 366 | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Total credit hours: 124 | |||
Courses
BIO 101. Life, Environment, and Society. 3 Hours
An introductory course covering the study of life in all its forms, understanding how life interacts with the environment and the role of biological inquiry in society. Emphasis will be placed on discussing topical issues relevant to evaluating the critical role of the life sciences in society today. Supporting laboratory strongly recommended, but optional. No prerequisite. For non-science majors only.
BIO 101L. Life, Environment, and Society Laboratory. 1 Hour
A hands-on approach to the study of life, understanding how life interacts with the environment, and the role of biological inquiry in society. Lab activities will stress an experiential, inquiry-based approach to topics relevant in today's society in an effort to increase student's abilities to critically evaluate modern science media. Laboratory topics are designed to run parallel to lecture topics. Recommended that the laboratory be taken concurrently with BIO 101 lecture. One two-hour laboratory per week. For non-science majors.
Corequisite(s): BIO 101.
BIO 151. Concepts of Biology I: Cellular & Molecular Biology. 3 Hours
Introduction to the biological concepts surrounding cell and molecular biology. Topics include scientific practice, molecular basis of life, cellular composition and energy processes, genetics, and biotechnology. Intended for science majors. Core biology course.
BIO 151L. Concepts of Biology Laboratory I: Cellular & Molecular Biology. 1 Hour
Laboratory-based introduction to the biological concepts surrounding cell and molecular biology. Utilizing a hands-on approach to the study of life, students will take part in experiential, inquiry-based activities as they observe the properties of cellular, micro-scale biology while concurrently defining proper laboratory procedures, operating modern scientific instrumentation, and practicing effective documentation of experiments. Topics include scientific practice, biological instrumentation, cellular composition and processes, genetics, and biotechnology. One three-hour lab per week. Intended for science majors. Core biology course.
Corequisite(s): BIO 151.
BIO 152. Concepts of Biology II: Evolution & Ecology. 3 Hours
Introduction to the biological concepts surrounding evolution and ecology. Topics include scientific practice, evolutionary basis of life, phylogeny and systematics, biodiversity, ecology and biosphere sustainability. Intended for science majors. Core biology course.
BIO 152L. Concepts of Biology Laboratory II: Evolution & Ecology. 1 Hour
Laboratory-based introduction to the biological concepts surrounding evolution, diversity and ecology. Utilizing a hands-on approach, students will take part in experiential, inquiry-based activities as they explore the concepts of evolution and macro-scale biology while concurrently developing proper laboratory procedures, operating modern scientific instrumentation, and practicing effective scientific presentation of research through the two most widely accepted formats: the scientific journal article and the research poster presentation. Topics include evolution and phylogeny, the diversity of life, ecology, and human impact on ecosystems. One three-hour laboratory per week. Intended for science majors. Core biology course.
Corequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 15F. Science Major Biology Unaligned - First Semester. 0-5 Hours
BIO 15FL. SCI MJR Bio Lab Unaligned 1st. 1-2 Hours
BIO 15S. Science Major Biology Unaligned - Second Semester. 1-5 Hours
BIO 15SL. Science Major Biology Lab Unaligned - Second Semester. 1-5 Hours
BIO 207L. Trees of Ohio. 1 Hour
A practical laboratory of dendrology. Taxonomy and ecology of woody plants of Ohio with an emphasis on identification skills. Field trips to encounter various species and habitats, taxonomic and botanical terminology, working with a dichotomous key and laboratory exercises will be blended together.
Prerequisites: BIO 152; BIO152L.
BIO 299. Biology Seminar. 1 Hour
Introduction to biological journals and abstracting materials. Practice in reviewing, abstracting, and presenting biological information, and career development. Core biology course. Biology and environmental biology majors only.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 300. Research Experience in Biology. 0-1 Hours
In this course, students will engage in faculty mentored experiential learning in Biology. These experiences may be related to biology research activity in a field or laboratory setting and course outcomes will be assessed through a reflection following the experience.
BIO 301. Evolution. 3 Hours
Theory and evidence of organic evolution, with emphasis on microevolutionary change and population genetics.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 301L. Evolution Laboratory. 1 Hour
A laboratory research experience in evolution with emphasis on phylogenetic reconstruction and natural selection.
Prerequisites: BIO 152.
Corequisites: BIO 301.
BIO 309. Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates. 3 Hours
Study of changes that have occurred in the vertebrate body with the passage of time, and analysis of their significance.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 309L. Comparative Anatomy Laboratory. 1 Hour
Dissection and study of the anatomical structure of representative vertebrate animals. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 309.
BIO 310. Ecology. 3 Hours
Interrelationship of plants, animals, and micro-organisms with the physical-chemical environment: nutrient cycles, energy flow, ecosystems, and factors affecting distribution and abundance of organisms. Core biology course.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 310L. Ecology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Measurement of population, community, and environmental variables in terrestrial and aquatic systems. The lab is field-based using local ecological resources. One three-hour laboratory per week and weekend field trips.
Corequisite(s): BIO 310.
BIO 311. Introductory Entomology. 3 Hours
Classification, physiology, ecology, and impact of insects on society.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 312. General Genetics. 3 Hours
Study of the principles of variation and heredity covering both Mendelian and molecular genetics. Core biology course.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 312L. Genetics Laboratory. 1 Hour
Exploration of heredity using molecular genetic methods. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 312.
BIO 314. Plant Biology. 3 Hours
Consideration of structure, function, reproduction, and inheritance as applicable in the plant patterns of life. Emphasis on the vascular plants.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 314L. Plant Biology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Emphasis on generalized structure and function of plants. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 314.
BIO 320. Marine Biology. 3 Hours
Introduction to the physical, chemical, and biological components of the marine environment with emphasis on ecology, biodiversity, ecosystem function, and conservation of marine resources.
Prerequisites: BIO 151, BIO 152, BIO 310.
BIO 320L. Marine Biology Laboratory. 2 Hours
Examination of marine organisms and processes. Laboratory work conducted on UD campus and at off-campus field sites in the southern United States or Hawaii.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.
Corequisite(s): BIO 320.
BIO 330. Animal Behavior. 3 Hours
An evolutionary approach to the study of animal behavior, emphasizing both proximate mechanisms and functional explanations of the survival value of behavior.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 330L. Animal Behavior Laboratory. 1 Hour
Analysis of animal behavior using various animal models. One three-hour laboratory per week and occasional Saturday field trips.
Corequisite(s): BIO 330.
BIO 350. Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 3 Hours
This course covers the fundamentals of applied and environmental microbiology, such as the production of fine and commodity chemicals, agriculture and food manufacturing, bioremediation of wastes and toxic chemicals, as well as other relevant topics in the applications of microbes for human and societal benefits.
Prerequisites: BIO 151; BIO 152; CHM 124.
BIO 359. Sustainability & the Biosphere. 3 Hours
Study of the principles of sustainability. All areas of sustainability will be covered with emphasis on ecological facets of sustainability. Discussion of loss of habitat and biodiversity in the context of sustaining natural resources for future generations.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152 or SCI 230.
BIO 362. Bioessentialism and Constructions of Bodies. 3 Hours
Study of bodies from an essentialist and bio-psychosocial models, as well as culturally informed and historical perspectives. Examines the historical and cultural impact on biological processes and identity formation. Through an intersectional lens, examines power dynamics impacting inclusion and exclusion in dominant structures.
Prerequisites: Sophomore standing or higher.
BIO 370. Conservation Biology. 3 Hours
An ecosystem approach to the study of and threat to local, regional, and global biodiversity. Application of ecological principles of conservation of species and habitats.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 395. Global Environmental Biology. 3 Hours
Presentation of the biological and ecological principles needed for the critical discussion and evaluation of current global issues related to human impact on the environment. Ecological data on the current extinction crisis and sustainable solutions will be addressed. No credit toward a biology major or minor.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 101, BIO 151 or SCI 230.
BIO 402. Vertebrate Zoology. 3 Hours
The morphology, physiology, ecology, and distribution of representative vertebrate groups.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 310 or BIO 312.
BIO 402L. Vertebrate Zoology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Laboratory focused on the diversity, systematics and ecology of vertebrates. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 402.
BIO 403. Physiology I. 3 Hours
Physical-chemical examination of the physiological events occurring in a living system with emphasis on physiology of the cell, excretion, nerves, muscles, bone, blood, heart, circulation, and respiration.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152; CHM 314.
BIO 403L. Physiology Laboratory I. 1 Hour
Systematic approach to the acquisition and interpretation of information about the physiology of living systems. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 403 or HSS 307.
BIO 404. Physiology II. 3 Hours
Integrated systems based examination of physiological processes in humans with a special emphasis on molecular mechanisms of pathophysiological conditions in humans and experimental animal systems.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 403.
BIO 407. Plant Diversity & Ecology. 3 Hours
Lecture course addressing plant diversity and ecology. Course includes an overview of plant systematics and aspects of plant anatomy, population ecology, community ecology, ecosystem ecology, and global ecology.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 310.
BIO 407L. Plant Diversity & Ecology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Field laboratory course addressing plant diversity and ecology. Includes a series of field labs focused on plant identification, followed by labs focused on quantitatively assessing plants, plant communities, and ecosystems. Labs will take place in a variety of natural areas.
Corequisite(s): BIO 407.
BIO 409. Ecological Restoration. 3 Hours
Principles and practices of ecological restoration. The course presents the rationale and knowledge needed to understand, appreciate, plan and perform ecological restoration.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 310.
BIO 409L. Ecological Restoration Laboratory. 1 Hour
Practical applications of the principles of ecological restoration to a variety of ecosystems. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 409.
BIO 411. General Microbiology. 3 Hours
Introductory course stressing the physiology, cultivation, and classification of microbial organisms; their role in medicine, agriculture, and industry.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152; CHM 313.
BIO 411L. General Microbiology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Lab exercises focusing on the basic techniques involved in the isolation and identification of bacteria, including assessment of biochemical activities, growth characteristics of bacteria, and the impact of the environment on microbial growth. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 411.
BIO 412. Genetics Human Diseases. 3 Hours
Study of the molecular genetics of inherited human diseases using a systems approach. Survey of inherited diseases linked to major organs and organ systems.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 312; CHM 313.
BIO 414. Virology. 3 Hours
This course is designed to enhance students’ understanding of virology, with special emphasis on human and animal viruses, their structure, genetic make-up, strategies of virus replication, and their classification. This course will also cover the mechanism of viral pathogenesis and strategies to control and prevent viral diseases.
Prerequisites: BIO 312.
BIO 415. Neurobiology. 3 Hours
Structure and function of the brain and nervous system. Emphasis on understanding cellular and molecular events within the nervous system using model organisms.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152; CHM 124.
BIO 415L. Neurobiology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Laboratory research experience in neuroscience with emphasis on cellular, molecular and behavioral neurobiology and neurochemistry.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152, BIO 415 (may be taken as a co-req), CHM 124.
BIO 416. Neuroscience Seminar. 1 Hour
Advanced seminar focusing on major topics in the field of Neuroscience and emphasizing the critical analysis of experimental approaches and research findings.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 415 (may be taken as a co-req).
BIO 417. Neurobiology of Disease. 3 Hours
An advanced neuroscience course focusing on the pathogenetic neurobiological mechanisms underlying major neuropsychiatric, neurodevelopmental, and neurodegenerative disorders, and their pharmacotherapeutic treatments.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 415.
BIO 418. Biomedical Pharmacology. 3 Hours
Introduction to the biomedical discipline of Pharmacology focusing on general pharmacological principles, the molecular mechanisms of drug actions, and clinically important drug classes that pertain to specific organ systems and/or therapeutic indications.
Prerequisites: BIO 403 or HSS 307 or BIO 415 or Instructor Permission.
BIO 420. Biology Capstone Seminar. 1 Hour
Seminar course designed to further develop students’ ability to communicate and synthesize within their discipline and prepare them for their chosen career paths in the Biological and Environmental professions. All class activities, including presentations, relate to key issues facing society today in addition to continued career development skills. Biology core and capstone course.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 299, BIO 310, BIO 312.
BIO 421. Biological Problems. 1-2 Hours
Laboratory research problems. Topics arranged with faculty advisors.
Prerequisite(s): (BIO 310 or BIO 312); Permission of department chairperson.
BIO 422. Biological Problems. 1-2 Hours
Library research problems. Topics arranged with faculty advisors.
Prerequisite(s): (BIO 310 or BIO 312); Permission of department chairperson.
BIO 426. Herpetology. 3 Hours
An overview of the biology of amphibians and reptiles with emphasis on biodiversity, ecology, evolution, morphology, physiology, behavior, and conservation.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 310.
BIO 426L. Herpetology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Laboratory focused on the diversity, morphology, and ecology of amphibians and reptiles. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 310 and BIO 310L and BIO 426 (BIO 426 may be taken as a co-req).
BIO 427. Immunology. 3 Hours
Discussions of antigens, antibodies, antigenicity, immunogenicity, and antigen-antibody reactions including hypersensitivity, immune tolerance, and transplants. Prerequisite(s): (BIO 403 or BIO 411 or BIO 440 or BIO 442) or CHM 420.
BIO 427L. Immunology Laboratory. 1 Hour
This laboratory course aims to provide students with hands-on experience in immunological techniques, including preparing sub-unit vaccines, troubleshooting the assays, and interpreting the results by critical analysis.
Prerequisite: BIO 427 (may be taken as a co-req).
BIO 435. Microbial Ecology. 3 Hours
Study of the diversity and activity of microorganisms and the interrelationships between microorganisms and their environments with emphasis on aquatic ecosystems.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 411; CHM 314.
BIO 435L. Microbial Ecology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Examination of the methods of isolation and enumeration of microorganisms and techniques for determining their activities in the field and laboratory. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 435.
BIO 439. Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data. 3 Hours
Introducing the nature of some of the important types of data that are generated in biological research, the databases that warehouse such data, the principles involved in the analysis of such data, the use of appropriate software to analyze such data, and the biological interpretation of the results of analysis.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 440. Cell Biology. 3 Hours
Study of the function, structure, composition, heredity, and growth of cells. Analysis of cell concepts in biochemical terms.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152; CHM 314.
BIO 440L. Cell Biology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Experimental approaches to explore modern concepts in cell structure, function, and biology. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 440.
BIO 442. Developmental Biology. 3 Hours
Study of animal development, including morphological patterns of development, mechanisms of cellular differentiation, cell-cell interactions during development, and mechanisms of differential gene expression. Emphasis on understanding development at the cellular and molecular levels.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152; CHM 314.
BIO 442L. Developmental Biology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Exploration of the development of key model organisms from the morphological and molecular perspectives with an emphasis on basic developmental laboratory techniques. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 442.
BIO 445. Evolution & Development. 3 Hours
Molecular and population genetic examination of the evolution of animal form. Topics include comparative developmental biology, population genetics, and molecular evolution.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 312.
BIO 450. Comparative Animal Physiology. 3 Hours
Organized on a function-system basis, course dealing with environment-organism interaction and with integrative systems of the principle phyla of animals.
Prerequisite(s): (BIO 310 or BIO 312); CHM 124.
BIO 450L. Comparative Animal Physiology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Examination of physiological responses to the physical environment. Variations of the physical environment are examined in the field. Study of animals under controlled laboratory conditions with experimental design, data collection and analysis to assess physiological adaptations. One three-hour laboratory or field trip per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 450.
BIO 452. Biology of Rivers & Lakes. 3 Hours
The biological interrelationships of organisms in rivers, streams, lakes and ponds including biodiversity, ecological/evolutionary adaptations and structure of aquatic ecosystems.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 310.
BIO 452L. Biology of Rivers & Lakes Laboratory. 1 Hour
Laboratory and field exercises emphasizing the biological, chemical and physical attributes of freshwater ecological systems. One three-hour laboratory or field trip per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 452.
BIO 459. Environmental Ecology. 3 Hours
The application of current ecological knowledge and principles toward the study of human impact on the environment. Emphasis on ecosystem dynamics, applied ecology, disturbance ecology, and approaches to solving global environmental problems.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 310.
BIO 459L. Environmental Ecology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Analytical approach to studying applied ecology and human impact on the environment. Emphasis on laboratory and field approaches to solving environmental problems through the use of ecological principles. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 459.
BIO 461. Invertebrate Zoology. 3 Hours
Survey of the structure, activities, life histories, and relationships of the invertebrate animals, with some emphasis on their origin and development.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 310 or BIO 312.
BIO 461L. Invertebrate Zoology Laboratory. 1 Hour
Examination of the structure and function of the major invertebrate phyla. Survey of representative animals with an emphasis on observational skills for analysis of the structural adaptations of live animals. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 461.
BIO 462. Molecular Biology. 3 Hours
Analysis of the nature of the gene and gene action. Particular attention to genetic regulation and to recent advances in molecular genetics.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 312; CHM 314.
BIO 466. Biology of Infectious Disease. 3 Hours
Overview of infectious diseases with specific emphasis on the biology of the pathogen and mechanisms of diseases. The topics are organized based on transmission routes and sites of infections.
Prerequisites: BIO 312.
BIO 470. Cancer Biology. 3 Hours
Study of growth patterns and causes of cancer at the cellular and molecular levels. Discussion of the hereditary and environmental factors that contribute to the development of the disease in cancer patients. Description of the research being conducted to understand and cure the disease.
Prerequisites: BIO 312, CHM 313.
Corequisites: BIO 403 or BIO 415 or BIO 440 or BIO 442.
BIO 475. Human Anatomy. 3 Hours
Study of the fundamental principles of human gross anatomy with emphasis on all organ systems.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152; CHM 314.
BIO 475L. Human Anatomy Laboratory. 1 Hour
Study of human gross anatomy emphasizing all organs systems using computer-assisted dissection, anatomical human models and occasional dissection of nonhuman cadaver organs. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 475.
BIO 477. Honors Thesis Project. 3 Hours
First of two courses leading to the selection, design, investigation, and completion of an independent, original Honors Thesis project under the guidance of a faculty research advisor. Restricted to students in the University Honors Program with permission of the program director and department chairperson. Students pursuing an interdisciplinary thesis topic may register for three semester hours each in two separate disciplines in consultation with the department chairpersons.
Prerequisite(s): Approval of University Honors Program.
BIO 478. Honors Thesis Project. 3 Hours
Second of two courses leading to the selection, design, investigation, and completion of an independent, original Honors Thesis project under the guidance of a faculty research advisor. Restricted to students in the University Honors Program with permission of the program director and department chairperson. Students pursuing an interdisciplinary thesis topic may register for three semester hours each in two separate disciplines in consultation with the department chairpersons.
Prerequisite(s): Approved 477; approval of University Honors Program.
BIO 479L. Environmental Biology Research Methods Laboratory. 1 Hour
The understanding and use of field- and laboratory-based equipment to study current environmental issues. Emphasis on team-centered approaches to investigating environmental problems. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Prerequisites: BIO 310.
BIO 480. Principles of Microscopy. 3 Hours
Focus on basic principles and theory of light and electron microscopy, and how these techniques address fundamental questions in science.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 480L. Principles of Microscopy Laboratory. 1 Hour
Application and practice of light and electron microscopy. One three-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): BIO 480.
BIO 489. Mycology. 3 Hours
Introductory course stressing the interrelationship between fungi and the rest of the biological world. Emphasis on the basic biology and ecology of fungi, decomposition, species interactions, plant pathology and medical mycology.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 152.
BIO 496. Special Topics in Biology. 1-3 Hours
Lecture course addressing advanced topics in biology. Topics are variable depending on faculty teaching the course and the course aims. Students should consult the class schedule. May be repeated.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 151, BIO 152.
BIO 496L. Special Topics Laboratory in Biology. 1 Hour
Laboratory course addressing advanced topics in biology. Topics are variable depending on faculty teaching the course and the course aims. Students should consult the class schedule. May be repeated.
Prerequisites: BIO 151L, BIO 152L.
BIO 499. Environmental Biology Internship. 2 Hours
Majors will have the opportunity to obtain valuable training and experience under the mentorship of established scientists and professionals. Emphasis on approaches to solving environmental problems including such research areas as bioremediation, risk assessment, and ecological restoration. May be repeated up to six semester hours.
Prerequisites: Permission of Environmental Biology Program Coordinator.