Biology

This course introduces students to foundational biology and chemistry concepts with an emphasis on the relationship between the two. In addition, the course will focus on techniques and study strategies which are key to success in the Natural Sciences. 

Origin, evolution, and diversity of life; basic biological chemistry; cell structure; energy metabolism; and basic genetics. Not intended for potential science majors.  Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours.

Origin and evolution of life, basic life chemistry, the cell, energy, basic genetics, and ecology. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours. 

This is the first part of a two-part Anatomy and Physiology Course sequence. In this section, the anatomy and physiology of integumentary, muscular, skeletal, nervous, and endocrine systems will be covered, as well as the basic chemistry, molecular, and cellular biology necessary to understand the structure and function of the human body. Many key concepts will be carried over into BIOL 121 (A and P II). For those in health fields, this information will serve as the foundation for most of your courses.

This is the second part of a two-part Anatomy and Physiology Course sequence. In this section, the anatomy and physiology of Lymphatic and Immune, Circulatory, Respiratory, Excretory (Urinary), Digestive, and Reproductive systems necessary to understand the structure and function of human body will be covered. Many key concepts will be carried over from BIOL 120 (A and P I) focusing on the integration of all systems. For those in health fields, this information will serve as the foundation for most of your courses.

Survey of biological diversity with discussion of morphology, anatomy, reproduction, and evolution as related to classification. The ecological and economic significance of organisms are discussed briefly. 

Introduction to the scientific literature, survey of equipment and techniques used in biological research, biological sampling, and principles of experimental design. Culminates in the production of a scientific research proposal.

Classification and identification of common and economically important plant families with attention to ecological associations; study of regional and greenhouse specimens.

A study of non-pathogenic and pathogenic microorganisms designed primarily for students in the BSN Program. Topics covered include: microbial characteristics, systematics, phylogeny and evolution of microorganisms, control of microorganisms, immune defenses of the host, and cause, prevention, and control of infectious diseases. Must be taken with BIOL 232 laboratory. 

Exploration of the ecological impacts of climate change through Arctic field biology. Includes a survey of Arctic ecosystems, with emphasis on the interaction between climate and the ecology of Arctic organisms. Following a semester-long survey of the natural history of the Arctic, students will complete field projects during an expedition above the Arctic Circle.

Examines the systematics, taxonomy, identification, and natural history of vertebrate organisms. Major evolutionary trends leading to the complex design, form and function of vertebrate taxa will be covered employing an integrative approach. Laboratory will cover anatomy, field identification, habitat characteristics, collection, and preparatory techniques focusing on vertebrates of the southern Appalachians.

Hands-on research experience through assistance in faculty research projects.

Hands-on research experience through assistance in faculty research projects.

Hands-on research experience through assistance in faculty research projects.

Hands-on research experience through assistance in faculty research projects.

Heredity, cytogenetics, population dynamics, DNA structure and function. This course satisfies the proficiency requirements for Ethical Reasoning and Quantitative Literacy in the disciplines.

Focus on current topics in biology, with emphasis on developing student research, written review of primary literature, oral communication skills, and peer and faculty feedback.

Organ level approach to structure and function of human systems; laboratory emphasis on physiology of exercise. Recommended for Health and Human Performance majors. 

Study of cellular, histological, structural, and functional aspects of body systems. Focus on the structure of the human body and physiological mechanisms used to maintain homeostasis. Designed for paramedical students in prephysical therapy and athletic training.

Analysis of development in terms of cell and tissue interactions, cellular differentiation and development of organ systems. Structure and development in plants and animals; experimental embryology.

Investigation into the organization and function of cell ultrastructure, specifically the mechanisms by which organic macromolecules interact to create a living system. Cellular energetics, transmembrane transport, intra- and intercellular communication, and cell cycle control and cell death.

Comparative study of chordate anatomy stressing evolutionary relationships and homologous structures culminating in study of mammalian anatomy. Study of chordate tissues and their relationships.

Morphology, physiology and taxonomy of selected microorganisms; emphasis on laboratory techniques.

Discussion of neotropical ecosystems, focusing on rainforest structure and function, evolution and coevolution, and ecological interactions among tropical organisms. Following the lecture part of the course will be an analysis of organisms and their habitats in a tropical environment, with emphasis on identification and field research techniques. Students will be responsible for travel and other expenses.

Study of the relationships of organisms to their environments and to each other, and how these relationships drive evolutionary histories. Emphasis on assessment and importance of habitat structure and variation, population genetics and dynamics, community transitions, and species interactions, along with student led research projects and topic review. Laboratory component involving sampling and assessment of ecological variables in a variety of habitat types throughout southwestern Virginia.

Selected topics in biology chosen by the instructor in response to student needs and interests.

Exploration of factors which affect short-term and long-term stability and health of biological populations, including immigration, emigration, recruitment and mortality, and the environmental factors which can affect each of these forces. Emphasis on understanding and manipulating mathematical models of hypothetical populations. Conservation of biological populations and communities, as well as critical natural resources.

Patterns and dynamics of the geographic distribution and abundance of plants and animals. Historical, ecological, and evolutional foundations of biogeography. Applications of biogeographical models in the assessment of habitat degradation and climate change effects on species distribution and abundance.

Patterns and processes of organismal change over time, emphasizing both micro- and macroevolution. Development of evolutionary thought, natural selection, speciation, phylogenetics, and the origin of life.

Chemical and physical functions of organisms including maintenance of homeostasis, water balance, metabolism, movement, gas exchange, and hormonal regulation, with emphasis on human systems and comparisons to other animals and to plants. Analysis of current literature and case studies, use of relevant instrumentation, and interpretation of data. Includes a service learning component.

Cell ultrastructure, metabolic pathways, and control mechanisms for cellular processes: respiration, photosynthesis, DNA, replication, protein synthesis, and differentiation.

Introduction to current concepts and experiments in gene manipulation and molecular techniques to understand genomics, gene expression and control of cells. Cellular energetics, transmembrane transport, intra- and intercellular communication, cell cycle control, and cell death.  

Study of current topics in biology based on a survey of primary literature. Focus on oral communication through scientific presentations and small-group discussions. 

Independent research project conducted under supervision of department.

Work experience related to the student's major, jointly supervised by the department and a professional in the field. Weekly departmental conferences with faculty supervisor. Although the usual internship will carry either three or six hours credit, a student may elect to arrange an internship carrying between two and six hours credit with the permission of the department. Each hour of credit will require forty hours at the internship site.

Work experience related to the student's major, jointly supervised by the department and a professional in the field. Weekly departmental conferences with faculty supervisor. Although the usual internship will carry either three or six hours credit, a student may elect to arrange an internship carrying between two and six hours credit with the permission of the department. Each hour of credit will require forty hours at the internship site.

Independent research in a special topic for honors.

Independent research in a special topic for honors.