BIOL 2200 is one of two semester courses that together provide an intensive introduction to biology for prospective Biology majors and pre-health (med, vet, dental) students. This course focuses on evolution, physiology and development. Lecture topics and concepts are reinforced and extended during once-weekly laboratory/small group discussions. The Introductory courses are not sequenced and may be taken in either order.

Despite the many benefits of asexual reproduction, the vast majority of eukaryotic organisms reproduce sexually. How sex evolved, and how it persists despite its many associated costs, are major unanswered questions in biology. We will explore the diversity of sexual reproduction and associated evolutionary phenomena with a focus on critically evaluating current research and theory in this field.Prerequisite: BIOL 3020 or permission from Instructor

BIOL 2100 is one of two semester courses that together provide an intensive introduction to biology for prospective Biology majors and pre-health (med, vet, dental) students. This course focuses on the fundamentals of cell biology and genetics with an emphasis on classical and modern experimental approaches. Lecture topics and concepts are reinforced and extended during once-weekly laboratory/small group discussions.

Genome databases contain a wealth of information that enable us to answer myriad questions in biology. Working with genome data requires foundational knowledge in molecular genetic concepts, as well as technical knowledge of how to read and analyze sequence data. This class will provide students with the skills to understand genomic data and its applications in biology and medicine.

From plants to humans, hormones shape various aspects of organismal form and behavior over contemporary and evolutionary time. Delve into endocrine pathways, hormones' influence on development, and their role in coordinating responses to environmental and physiological stimuli. Gain a deep understanding endocrinology theories, concepts, and methods, and the ability to critically evaluate hormonal impacts on ecosystem and human health.

Examines the fundamental principles of eukaryotic cell biology at the molecular level. Topics include: structure and function of the plasma membrane, transport of small molecules, ions and macromolecular complexes across membranes, protein trafficking, the cytoskeleton, signal transduction pathways, and the control of cell division and cellular proliferation. Prerequisites: completion of BIOL 2100 or BME 2104 and either CHEM 1410,1420, or CHEM 1810,1820. NOT repeatable if passing grade received.

What makes humans different from fruit flies? Why does your brain have neurons and not liver cells? This course is all about the answer to these questions: It's the genes! This course covers the chemical make-up of genes, how they're passed on through generations, how they're expressed and how that expression is regulated, how disruption in the structure and expression of genes arise and how those disruptions lead to cellular defects and disease. Prerequisite: Must have completed BIOL 2100 or BME 2104 and either CHEM 1410 or CHEM 1810.  BIOL 3010 is not repeatable. 

Studies the genetics and cell biology of the vertebrate immune system, with a focus on adaptive immunity. Classic and current experimental systems are emphasized. Prerequisite: Must have completed or be currently taking BIOL 2010 or BIOL 2100 or BME 2104

Biochemistry underlies nearly every biological process, from environmental science to medicine. When living systems are in chemical and energetic balance, organisms thrive. When they're out of balance, as in disease or unpredictable environments, life is compromised. This course will explain how simple chemical and physical principles apply to the major classes of biological macromolecules that maintain life.Prerequisite: BIOL 2010 or BIOL 2100 or BME 2104 and BIOL 2020 or BIOL 2040 and either CHEM 2410 or CHEM 1820

Introduces biological timekeeping as used by organisms for controlling diverse processes, including sleep-wakefulness cycles, photoperiodic induction and regression, locomotor rhythmicity, eclosion rhythmicity, and the use of the biological clock in orientation and navigation. Prerequisite: BIOL 3000 or 3010 or 3020