BIO 100 The World of Biology (3) (E)
An introduction to biology. The course presents an overview of the study of life. Emphasis is placed on how biology affects our daily lives, including such topics as biodiversity, genetic engineering, and problems associated with the expansion of the human population. Designed for non-science majors. Offered each semester.
BIO 101 The World of Biology Laboratory (1)
Compliments BIO 100. Students observe living systems and perform basic experiments that demonstrate fundamental biological principles using the scientific method as one way to acquire knowledge about our world. Designed for non-science majors. Laboratory session meets three hours each week. Prerequisite/co-requisite: BIO 100. $50 lab fee. Offered each semester.
BIO 102 Human Anatomy & Physiology (3)
BIO 112 General Botany (4)
BIO 115 Human Genetics (3) (E)
An introduction to the science of genetics. Emphasis is placed on human genetics and the genetics of organisms that are important to mankind. A course for everyone concerned about how our genetic makeup affects what we are, what we do, and what we transmit to future generations. Areas such as evolution, reproduction, different types of inheritance and population genetics are explored. Designed for the non-science major. Offered each spring.
BIO 120 Microbes and Man (3)
An introductory biology course using microbiology as the unifying concept to explore many of the facets of the study of life. Topics include: the evolution and classification of life, cell structure and metabolism, the major roles microbes play in ecosystems, molecular genetics, control of microbial growth, biotechnology, the human immune system, and major viral and bacterial diseases of humans. Designed for non-biology majors. Corequisite: BIO 121. Offered each fall.
BIO 121 Microbes and Man Laboratory (1)
An introductory biological science lab course designed to accompany BIO 120. Students have the opportunity to learn a number of basic scientific techniques including: the correct use of microscopes, basic aseptic techniques, how to handle microbial cultures, basic bacterial identification, cell structure and function, and how to design simple experiments using microorganisms. Designed for non-biology majors. Corequisite: BIO 120. $50 lab fee. Offered on demand.
BIO 131 Principles of Biology I: Evolution & Ecology (4) (E)
An introduction to the biological sciences. Lecture topics include Darwinian evolution, the origin and diversity of life, functional morphology, and ecology. This course is designed specifically for students intending to pursue a major in biology or EES. $50 lab fee. Offered each fall.
BIO 132 Principles of Biology II: Cell Biology & Genetics (4)
This course completes the introduction to the biological sciences for biology and other natural science majors. Lecture topics include biochemistry, cell structure and processes, cell respiration, fermentation, photosynthesis, cell division, Mendelian genetics, gene expression, cancer biology, and animal physiology. $50 lab fee. Offered each spring.
BIO 150 Introduction to Marine Biology (3) (E)
An introduction to the organisms and communities of marine and estuarine areas. Students examine the basic physical and ecological processes that are pertinent to marine habitats and will focus on the diversity of marine organisms and ecosystems. Designed for non-science majors. Offered each fall.
BIO 151 Introduction to Marine Biology Laboratory (1)
An introductory laboratory study of the organisms and communities of marine and estuarine areas. The lab includes field and laboratory identification of local organisms and investigations in a variety of local field habitats. Designed for non-science majors. Corequisite: BIO 150. $50 lab fee. Offered each fall.
BIO 207 Environmental Biology (4) (E)
A study of specific environmental issues, especially those that influence biodiversity and the abundance of organisms. Emphasis is placed on basic ecological principles, overpopulation, air and water resources, environmental monitoring, and biodiversity. Designed for majors in the sciences or students minoring in EES. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. $50 lab fee. Offered spring of odd-numbered years.
BIO 221 Anatomy and Physiology (4)
An integrated lecture/laboratory experience which examines the anatomy and physiology of humans. A survey of the major organs and organ systems of the body from both the histological and gross anatomical perspective is featured. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. $50 lab fee. Offered each fall.
BIO 250 Field Experiences in Biology (3) (E)
Provides students with an intensive field experience in particular habitats. Studies are conducted to examine the interrelationship between organisms and their environment within specific habitats. May be repeated for credit as topics change. Does not fulfill the Natural Science requirement for Latin Honors. Lab fee. Prerequisite: consent. Offered in selected Winter Sessions or summers on demand.
BIO 280 General Horticulture (3)
A course designed to acquaint students with factors necessary to grow and maintain plants. Ideal for those interested in learning applied skills in botany. Students will apply knowledge gained in lecture to projects in the greenhouse. Offered on demand.
BIO 285 Plants and Man (3)
Introduces students to how mankind uses plants and how plants have influenced human cultures. This course is appropriate for both the non-major and major in science. Offered fall of odd-numbered years.
BIO 300 Plant Morphology (4)
A morphological and evolutionary study of plants from bacteria to flowering plants. Designed to give the student a view of the structure and modes of reproduction of plants. Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in BIO 110 or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered spring of odd-numbered years.
BIO 311 Genetics (4)
Principles of heredity as applied to both plants and animals. Prerequisites: CHEM 105 or 117 and a grade of C or better in both BIO 131 and 132 or one year of general biology. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered each semester.
BIO 316 General Ecology (4) (W)
A study of plant and animal communities in relation to habitat with emphasis on the effect of the environment on community structure and distribution. Prerequisites: BIO 131 and 132 or one year of general biology or 207. MATH 106 is recommended. Lecture three hours, laboratory/field three hours each week. Offered each fall.
BIO 332 Taxonomy of Vascular Plants (4)
Emphasis is on the classification and identification of the plants of southern Virginia. The characteristics of the major families of plants of North America are discussed. Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in 132 or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered spring of even-numbered years.
BIO 355 Marine Biology (4)
A study of organismal adaptation and community organization in marine and estuarine habitats. A variety of marine habitats, with the laboratory primarily focusing on local species and habitat types is examined. Prerequisite: one year of general biology or BIO 207. Offered each fall.
BIO 370 Vertebrate Zoology (4)
A comparative study of the morphology, life histories, and evolutionary relationships of the major vertebrate lineages. This course includes laboratory examinations and field observations of representative vertebrate animals. Prerequisite: BIO 131. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.
BIO 371 Histology (4)
Features a detailed study of the cells, tissues, and organs that comprise the mammalian body. It is especially intended for students seeking careers in biology, medicine, or veterinary sciences. Prerequisite: grade of C or better in BIO 131 or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.
BIO 372 Comparative Anatomy (4)
A study of the evolution, morphology, and physiology of vertebrates. An intensive laboratory directed examination of the major organ systems of vertebrates as exemplified by the lamprey, dogfish, salamander, and cat is featured. It is intended for students seeking careers in biology, medicine, or veterinary sciences. Prerequisite: BIO 131 with a grade of C or better or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.
BIO 373 Invertebrate Zoology (4)
A survey of the invertebrate phyla, with a focus on the classification, evolution, ecology, morphology, and life histories of these organisms. This course includes laboratory examinations of representative groups and field sampling of local invertebrate fauna. Prerequisite: BIO 131. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered fall of odd-numbered years.
BIO 375 Topics in Tropical Biology (3) (W)
Features an intensive field experience in neotropical ecosystems (e.g., sea caves, mangrove swamps, coral reefs and rainforests). Descriptive field studies of representative plants and animals is required. Field activities require strenuous exercise and considerable hiking. Destinations may include Trinidad, Belize, Costa Rica, U.S. Virgin Islands, or the Galapagos Islands. Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in BIO 131 and BIO 132 or BIO 207, and consent. Lab fee. Offered summer on demand.
BIO 380 Comparative Animal Physiology (4)
A study of the basic mechanisms by which different animals function. Emphasis is placed on how organisms, both invertebrates and vertebrates, make changes in these basic mechanisms to deal with differing environmental conditions. Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in BIO 131 or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.
BIO 384 Developmental Biology (4)
Focuses on the process by which organisms grow and develop. Emphasizes principles and concepts that govern development in model organisms such as sea urchins, flatworms, fruit flies, zebra fish, and chickens. Regeneration of appendages, stem cells, cancer and plants are discussed. Prerequisite: BIO 311 or consent. Offered fall of even-numbered years.ýý
BIO 385 Animal Behavior (4)
A study of the mechanisms and evolution of animal behavior. Topics include genetics and development of behavior, neural and physiological mechanisms of behavior, communication, social behavior, habitat selection, reproductive behavior, and parental investment. Laboratory exercises provide hands-on experience for many of these concepts. Prerequisites: BIO 131 or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.
BIO 410 Evolution (3)
A study of the theories of evolution and their proponents in both vegetable and animal kingdoms. Prerequisite: junior/senior status. Offered each fall.
BIO 420 Cell and Molecular Biology (4)
A study of the structure and function of prokaryotes and eukaryotes at the cellular and molecular level. Emphasis is placed on the molecular nature of cellular structure, metabolism and physiology. Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in CHEM 311, 312, 321 and 322. Offered each spring of even-numbered years.
BIO 445 Limnology (3) (W)
Introduces the study of fresh waters, including lake, pond, river, and stream ecosystems. Emphasis is placed on physical processes, primary and secondary productivity, biogeochemical cycling, and food web interactions across all trophic levels. Prerequisite: BIO 131 and 132 or equivalent or BIO 207, with a grade of C or better. Offered spring of even-numbered years.
BIO 460 Zymurgy: the Science of Fermentation (3) (I)
Introduces the science and art of fermentation and a consideration of the use of alcohol by human societies. Prerequisite: senior status or consent. Offered in selected Winter Sessions and spring semester.
BIO 470 Internship in the Natural Sciences (3)
An intensive study of a particular field of science through on-site field experience. Internships involve hands-on opportunities in the sciences that are relevant to that particular site. Students are expected to devote a minimum of at least 120 hours for 3 semester hours, but some placements may require more time. Students must coordinate their internship placement with the supervising faculty member at least 2 months prior to placement. Pass/fail grading. Prerequisites: junior/senior status and consent. Offered each semester.
BIO 475 Natural & Social History of the Chesapeake Bay (3) (I)
Gives students a comprehensive view of one of the largest and most diverse estuaries in the world, the Chesapeake Bay. Students examine the relationships among the natural history (flora and fauna), human history, including social and political aspects, use of the bay by different societies, their impact on and preservation of the bay. Saturday field trips required. Prerequisite: junior/senior status. Offered on demand.
BIO 480 Readings in Biology (1)
An advanced seminar that discusses readings from the primary literature on various announced topics in biology. May be repeated for credit as topics change. Prerequisite: senior/junior status and consent. Offered on demand.
BIO 482 Microbiology (3)
Teaches basic microbiological concepts and the role of microorganisms in various applied areas. Topics include: microbial physiology, cell structure, microbial genetics, pathogenic microorganisms and human diseases, and environmental and applied microbiology. Corequisite: BIO 484. Prerequisites: BIO 311. Offered spring of odd-numbered years.
BIO 484 Microbiology Laboratory (1)
Techniques of culturing and identifying microorganisms are taught. Procedures include: culturing, staining, determination of microbial numbers, effect of environmental influences, identification of enzymatic reaction, and isolation and identification of bacterial cultures. Corequisite: BIO 482. Prerequisites: BIO 311. Offered spring of odd-numbered years.
BIO 485 Seminar in Biology (1)
An advanced seminar on various topics in biology. Each student will conduct in-depth library research on a topic of interest and present a seminar to the department. Prerequisite: senior/junior status and a major or minor in the natural sciences. Offered each spring.
BIO 489 Research in the Natural Sciences (3)
Provides students with the opportunity to conduct original scientific research in an area of interest. Students work closely with one or more members of the natural science faculty to develop and conduct a research project. Students present their findings orally during the semester's undergraduate research symposium and as a formal research paper. Students are encouraged to present their findings at a conference. Prerequisite: junior/senior status and a major in the natural sciences, prior approval by the project adviser, and consent of the instructor. May be repeated once for a total of 6 semester hours. Identical to CHEM 489 and EES 489. Offered each semester.