Uses the study of molecular biology to explore the collaborative process of scientific research, the critical reading of primary literature, the design and implementation of experimental studies, quantitative skills, and the interpretation and communication of research results. Like in all 200-level courses, students focus on the “process” of exploring biology. Provides for a study of biological processes at the molecular level, including transcription, RNA processing, translation, DNA replication and recombination. Emphasis is on understanding the experiments that have led to our current knowledge of molecular processes and, in particular, the means by which these processes are regulated.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 204L Prerequisites: (BIOL 181 or BIOL 211) and (BIOL 182 or BIOL 212) Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No Senior Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Required corequisite to BIOL 204. The laboratory includes investigative experiments that familiarize students with the molecular techniques used to analyze problems in molecular biology.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 204 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Cells are the basic units of life. This course uses the study of cell biology to explore the collaborative process of scientific research, the critical reading of primary literature, the design and implementation of experimental studies, quantitative skills, and the interpretation and communication of research results. Like all 200-level courses, this course focuses on the “process” of exploring biology. Course topics include regulation of the cell cycle and cell division, cell structure and motility, inter- and intracellular communication, and organelle structure and function. Students learn how to critically read and evaluate primary journal articles and will integrate content from the course and published literature into multi-week, lab-based investigative research projects.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 205L Prerequisites: (BIOL 181 or BIOL 211) and (BIOL 182 or BIOL 212) Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No Senior Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 205 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Organismal biology is the study of how structure and function of individual organisms shape ecology, evolution, and biological diversity. This course uses the study of organismal biology to explore the collaborative process of scientific research, the critical reading of primary literature, the design and implementation of experimental studies, quantitative skills, and the interpretation and communication of research results. Like all 200-level courses, BIOL 206 focuses on the “process” of exploring biology. Students focus on physiological and ecological problems that arise as organisms interact with their environment, and examine these interactions between and within major groups of organisms.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 206L Prerequisites: (BIOL 181 or BIOL 211) and (BIOL 182 or BIOL 212) Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No Senior Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Required corequisite to BIOL 206. Includes field trips to terrestrial and aquatic environments that expose students to local diversity and to techniques frequently used in the field.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 206 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Opportunity for individual study in areas not covered by formal course offerings, under the guidance of a member of the faculty.
Credits: variable Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Introduces students to the range of eukaryotic organisms that cause parasitic diseases in humans. The focus is on globally important helminths, protozoans, and arthropods. The latter will be covered as both agents and vectors of human parasitic diseases. Topics covered include the biology, geographical distribution, sources of infections, life cycles, route(s) of transmission, clinical disease, and control/preventive measures. The basic principles of laboratory diagnosis and treatment of parasitic diseases are included in the course to enhance the practical parasitology knowledge of the students. The course includes reading of the primary literature, and requires oral and written critical analysis of the literature.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 301L Prerequisites: (BIOL 181 or BIOL 211) and (BIOL 182 or BIOL 212) Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Parasitology labs will provide to students with an opportunity to identify and study the various developmental stages of common parasites of the human. Labs will focus on examining preserved specimens and prepared slides. Required corequisite to BIOL 301.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 301 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: None Liberal Arts CORE: None
Systems biology is an emerging interdisciplinary field that focuses on system level understanding of complex interactions of biological processes using quantitative approaches. The course focuses on the applications of mathematical techniques such as differential equations, network structure measures, machine learning and modeling (e.g., Boolean and stochastic modeling) to the study of gene regulation, synthetic gene circuits, small- and large-scale biological networks, and signal transduction pathways. Students also learn how to use computer software that is designed for biological data analysis such as GenePattern and COPASI.
Credits: 1.00 Crosslisted:MATH 302 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: (MATH 111 or MATH 161 or MATH 112 or MATH 162) and (BIOL 182 or MATH 113 or MATH 163 or PHYS 204 or COSC 101 or BIOL 212) Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
BIOL 303 - Australia Biogeography and Biodiversity (Study Group)
About the making of modern Australia. Australia has, arguably, one of the most distinctive biotas on Earth. Indeed, every American school child knows many species endemic to Australia. Outlines the various historical processes - including dispersal, adaptive radiation, and human hunting - that have shaped life in Australia and on nearby islands. Begins in ancient Gondwana and ends with modern efforts to conserve Australia’s native plants and animals. Some attention is paid to the relationship between people, both aboriginal and those of European descent, and nature in Australia. Includes several required field trips in New South Wales.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Covers the biology of the major animal groups. Attention is given to the phylogenetic history, functional morphology, development, physiology, medical importance, and ecology of representative invertebrates.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 304L Prerequisites:BIOL 181 or BIOL 211 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 254
Required corequisite to BIOL 304. Laboratories include field collections of freshwater and terrestrial invertebrates, as well as the study of major groups of marine invertebrates.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 304 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 254L
Has an evolutionary theme and investigates the diversity of vertebrate animal life. Emphasis is on evolutionary origins and phylogenetic relationships, basic structure and function, development and reproduction, behavior, zoogeography, and interrelationships with the environment.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 305L Prerequisites:BIOL 181 or BIOL 211 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 255
Students examine the morphology of selected vertebrates with dissection of preserved materials and also includes study of vertebrate natural history of local species in the field.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 305 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 255L
The great majority of people understand that plants are fundamental to life: they produce life sustaining oxygen, cleanse the air of carbon dioxide, provide material for construction, and more. Yet few people appreciate that modern medicine has its roots in the chemistry of plants. From headaches and malaria to AIDS and hypertension, most modern drug treatments originated from plant extracts. Even in the modern world of sophisticated synthetic chemistry, 25 percent of all prescriptions contain plant extracts or active principles prepared from plants. More than providing pain relief and disease cures, the search of effective medical botany has shaped cultures, created fierce wars, and contributed to the modern issues of bio-prospecting, drug wars, and crime scene investigation. This course delves into issues of medical and forensic botany from multiple perspectives. Students develop a greater understanding of basic plant biology and phytochemistry, and learn how many cultures have utilized plants for curative and destructive means. Students also examine how plant-derived drugs have disrupted both ancient and modern cultures, and have shaped the scientific method and modern drug creation. Finally, the class examines how plants play significant roles in early and modern forensics by focusing on major cases whose decisions have hinged on plant evidence.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 306L Prerequisites:BIOL 181 or BIOL 211 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 230
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 306 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: None Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 230L
Provides an introduction to epidemiology, the basic science of public health. Epidemiology provides a systematic approach for acquiring and evaluating information on the distribution and causes of disease and other health outcomes in populations. Topics include the history of epidemiology, an overview of epidemiologic methods (e.g., study design, measures of disease distribution and association, interpretation), and the application of epidemiologic research to the development and evaluation of disease prevention and control strategies. Current or historically relevant infectious and chronic diseases are explored through lectures, interactive exercises, and independent assignments.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 182 or BIOL 212 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
All animals are faced with similar fundamental problems, namely, acquiring and using energy, exchanging nutrients and wastes with the environment, balancing water and electrolytes, and reproducing. This course is about how animals address these problems in the context of the varied (and sometimes extreme) environments in which they live. With evolution as a unifying theme, both the general principles of animal function (the similarities among different animals) and the exceptions to the general rules are investigated. Topics include size and scaling, energy metabolism, temperature tolerance and regulation, gas exchange, water and osmotic regulation, respiration and circulation, excitable tissue, and global climate change physiology. General principles of animal physiology are also explored using examples of animals that live in extreme environments. When offered, BIOL 311L is a required corequisite.
Required corequisite to BIOL 311. This laboratory involves hypothesis-guided experimentation with quantitative analysis of data.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 311 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Microbiology is an incredibly broad field that involves the study of organisms that cannot be seen without the aid of a microscope. Despite their small size, microbes are critical components of our bodies and ecosystems. This course examines the diversity of microbes in nature and their importance in human affairs from disease to agriculture. It also examines the characteristics of individual microorganisms that enable them to inhabit particular environments. Topics include microbial cell biology, genetics, metabolism, ecology and pathogenesis.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 313L Prerequisites:BIOL 182 or BIOL 212 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 333
Required corequisite to BIOL 313. Projects in the laboratory include identification of microbes and experiments aimed at understanding their growth, physiology, and genetics.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 313 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 333L
The course material covers organisms in three kingdoms: Protista, Fungi, and Plantae. Topics include cell structure, reproduction, transport, and metabolism. There is an emphasis on photosynthesis, diversity, and evolution in fungi, protists, and land plants. Features of seed plant morphology, anatomy, translocation of water and minerals, gas exchange, and reproduction are discussed.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 315L Prerequisites:BIOL 181 or BIOL 211 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 215
Recent developments in biological data collection have led to the creation of large-scale experimental data sets of DNA and protein sequences and structures of biological molecules. These data are available for public use from an array of databases, and their analysis is intriguing. This course provides an introduction to the use of computational methods and tools to extract useful information from these large datasets, and focuses on interpreting this expanding biological information. Students discuss the basics of bioinformatics and focus on the identification and characterization of functional elements from protein and DNA sequences. Students also learn to use public databases and web-based sequence analysis tools, focusing primarily on human genome data.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 182 or BIOL 212 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 225
Examines the relationship between structure and function in the vertebrate body, starting at the level of molecules and cells, and moving through tissues, organs, and organ systems. Major topics include the endocrine, nervous, and cardiovascular systems; digestive physiology; and water, salt, pH balance in the body and the effects of global climate change on vertebrate physiology.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 318L Prerequisites:BIOL 182 or BIOL 212 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 381
Explores issues of experimental design, data collection, parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing as they apply to the life sciences. Topics include samples and populations, tests for goodness of fit, hypotheses about samples drawn from normally distributed populations, the binomial and Poisson distributions, analysis of variance, correlation analysis, linear regression, non-parametric tests, and power analysis. Students learn computer software applications for the analysis and graphing of data. Course material is beneficial to students planning to do research.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 320L Prerequisites: (BIOL 181 or BIOL 211) or (BIOL 182 or BIOL 212) Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Recommended: The course should count as one of the two courses required in mathematics for students interested in the health science professions or graduate school in the sciences. Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 220
Examines the role of plants in the ecological world by studying the biological and historical factors affecting the structure of plant communities, with an emphasis on field and lab work. The topic is approached by viewing plants as individuals, members of populations, communities, and as key integrators of ecosystems. The course examines individual plants from a functional perspective by relating morphological and physiological traits with biological and biochemical processes, to understand spatiotemporal patterns of plant distribution in their natural environments. Beyond the individual, the course explores population and community dynamics and combines this knowledge to understand better the organization of plant communities and the roles they play in ecosystems.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 328L Prerequisites:BIOL 181 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 403
The widespread loss of species and concerns over how to maintain maximum genetic variability in populations are at the heart of this course. Topics include biological diversity, its measurement, and differences in diversity among habitats. The course also considers threats to biological diversity such as habitat loss, exotic species introductions, pollution, and catastrophic events. This information is used to consider various conservation strategies and sustainable development. Students take a global perspective in this course and consider how globalization affects biodiversity directly and indirectly.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Addresses tropical ecology starting with the discoveries and theories of early explorers to modern theories of biogeography of species richness. Students also learn about the human impacts on tropical diversity and the sustainability of tropical ecosystems. Students use seminal papers as readings and discuss questions that are still debated by tropical ecologists: Why are the tropics so diverse? How is this diversity maintained? How do communities respond to disturbance? And how does global warming affect communities and species richness? Students design experiments and write proposals on field projects that are executed during the extended study portion of the course.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 332E Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
A three-week trip to Costa Rica, Central America, where students visit tropical lowland rainforest, montane cloud forest, and lowland dry forest, and visit a mangrove swamp, secondary forest, and high elevation tropical bog. In each study site students conduct the research studies proposed and decided on during the lecture course. The extended study includes rigorous field work, individual and group projects, research reports, and presentations–all with the backdrop of the forest.
Introduction to freshwater ecology, including the study of the effects of physical, chemical, and geographical factors on the structure and function of freshwater lakes and streams. The effects of human activities on water quality are also examined. There are field trips to local lakes and streams.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 335L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Required corequisite to BIOL 335. Laboratories develop skills in water chemistry; sampling, identification, and quantification of algae, aquatic plants, and animals; and the quantitative presentation of data.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 335 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Emphasizes the quantitative aspects of ecology by exploring mathematical models of competition and predation, the use of diversity and community similarity indices, population regulation models, island biogeography, key factor analysis, food web analysis, and examining community and ecosystem level processes.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 336L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Required corequisite to BIOL 336. This laboratory includes field trips to examine terrestrial and aquatic communities exposing students early in the semester to field methods; for the remainder of the semester, students design and conduct a small research project.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 336 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Provides students with knowledge of the fundamental principles of the molecular and cellular biology of cancer cells. Focuses on understanding how changes in the normal growth and division processes lead to human cancer. Highlights multiple areas of cancer biology including the nature of cancer, signals in tumor cells, oncogenes, tumor suppressors, cancer-causing viruses, unregulated cell proliferation, DNA damage, epigenetics, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastasis, and current therapeutic approaches to cancer treatment.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Provides students with a comprehensive analysis of marine ecological processes and in-depth examination of the biology of marine organisms. Broad ecological concepts are emphasized in a survey of marine habitats ranging from the intertidal rocky shore to deep sea hydrothermal vents. The diversity of marine organisms is considered in the context of their physical and chemical environments, and their interspecific interactions. In addition, students deliberate on specific ways in which humans impact the marine environment.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 or GEOL 135 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Explores behavior patterns of both invertebrate and vertebrates with emphasis upon their ontogeny, evolution, and adaptive significance. Lecture topics include social organization, communication, territoriality, and mating systems. Laboratory exercises include observational and experimental studies of the behavior of diverse species.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 341L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
BIOL 341E - Cognition, Behavior and Conservation of Marine Mammals (Extended Study)
This extended study course to the Florida Keys focuses on current theories, research, and methods in behavioral and cognitive studies of marine mammals, with an emphasis on bottle-nosed dolphins. Because animal behavioral research and conservation are intimately linked, the course also considers conservation issues relevant to marine organisms and their environment. The course includes hands-on and interactive experiences with the resident pod of dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center, as well as classroom seminars and workshops, live marine mammal demonstrations and observations, and discussions with expert trainers, researchers, and educators.
Credits: 0.50 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 341 or NEUR 385 or BIOL 385 or PSYC 385 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: None Liberal Arts CORE: None
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 341 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
An introduction to biological physics including a survey of topics such as diffusion, Brownian motion, non-Newtonian fluids, self-assembly, cooperativity, bioenergetics, and nerve impulses, as well as experimental techniques and analytical approaches. Students first develop the interdisciplinary knowledge needed to address biophysical questions. The course then focuses on the reading, presentation, and critique of current biophysics research literature. Although challenging in its breadth, this course is intended to be accessible to juniors and seniors majoring in physics, chemistry, or biology.
Credits: 1.00 Crosslisted:PHYS 350 When Offered: Spring semester only, in alternate years
Corequisite: None Prerequisites: MATH 111 or MATH 161 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year, Sophomore Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Cellular function is examined at the molecular and biochemical level. This course addresses features of the intracellular milieu and the mechanisms by which cells regulate and maintain that milieu in a changing environment. The course addresses the important historical experiments leading to current understanding, as well as the techniques used in the study of cell physiology.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Evolutionary biology is a dynamic, interdisciplinary field that influences the way we think about topics as diverse as conservation biology, epidemiology, paleontology, population genetics, adaptive radiations, the evolution of developmental mechanisms, inter-specific competition, and human behavior. The material covered in this course is motivated by the types of questions evolutionary biologists ask about these and other subjects. Emphasis is on the formulation of these questions, the generation of hypotheses, and the testing of predictions. Using primary literature, students critique experiments designed to test competing hypotheses; they also provide informed suggestions for future directions of research through a peer-reviewed research proposal.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 454
Over the past few decades there has been increasing focus on multicellular organisms at the level of expression of genomes and interactions within and among cells. Recent advances in integration of scientific perspectives from across disciplines are leading to a renewed holistic approach to the study of organismal biology. In this course, the roles of organisms in environments, their functional and behavioral diversity, their evolutionary history, and their representation of physical and living systems are explored through historical and recent literature, case studies, and consideration of how the current growth in integrative science influences our understanding of organismal ecology and evolution. Different groups of organisms are used to illustrate the history, current state of understanding, and emerging principles in the study of whole organisms.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Examines fundamental processes in animal and plant development, including fertilization, the establishment of embryonic polarity, the determination of cell fate in the early embryo, and the mechanisms by which cells generate the specific organizational pattern of a developing embryo. Additionally, potential medical applications resulting from the study of developmental biology are considered. Emphasis is on understanding experimental systems (including sea urchins, fruit flies, frogs, and mice) and approaches (molecular genetics, biochemistry, and classical embryonic manipulations).
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 356L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 324
Provides an understanding of the diverse groups of vascular plants, which are commonly known as the “higher plants” and are the dominant plants in the world today. Course topics focus on the major groups of extant vascular plants and investigate, from an evolutionary perspective, the morphologies, life cycles, reproductive structures and strategies, identification, classification, and economic importance of these groups. Students lead class critiques of the literature and perform an independent research project as part of the course.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 357L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 325
Required corequisite to BIOL 357. Laboratory sessions provide hands-on experience in analyzing plant structures, using identification keys, and working with herbarium specimens.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 357 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 325L
Ecosystem ecology is the study of both the organisms (biotic) and the environment (abiotic) as an integrated system and the processes that link them: energy transformations and biogeochemical cycling. Emphasizing plant systems, the course introduces students to fundamental ecosystem processes such as primary productivity, decomposition, nutrient cycling, plant-soil interactions, and energy balance. Students also study the major element cycles (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus) and how these vary among ecosystems as different as the arctic tundra and tropical rainforest. An important theme of the course is the relationship between ecosystem processes and pressing global environmental issues such as global warming, biodiversity loss, and rising carbon dioxide levels.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 359L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 329
Provides students with an in-depth study of biological processes at the molecular level, focusing on topics such as the regulation of transcription, RNA processing, translation, DNA replication and recombination. Emphasis is on critical reading of the scientific literature and examining current experiments that lead us to our understanding of molecular processes.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206. Biochemistry majors require only BIOL 182 and should contact the instructor before registration. Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 321, BIOL 322
Covers current issues in population biology, and draws from the fields of population genetics, evolutionary ecology, community ecology, and biogeography. Students learn the tools of evolutionary genetics, and read original literature for class discussion. Specific course topics include an in-depth study of population and quantitative genetics as well as special investigations of the evolution of parasite virulence, the maintenance of sexual reproduction, the evolution of cooperative behavior, and the evolution of senescence. Students are required to lead class critiques of the literature, and perform an independent research project as an integral part of the course.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Explores the fundamentals of population biology, the molecular methods used to measure critical parameters, and the application of these concepts and techniques to current problems in ecology and evolution. Using detailed case studies from organisms as diverse as dolphins, birds, ants, and humans, students discuss the mechanisms driving ecological and evolutionary patterns. The case studies have been selected to demonstrate the variety of techniques involved in current molecular ecology research from observational studies to gene expression studies.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 371L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Required corequisite to BIOL 371. This laboratory introduces students to the basic methodology involved with molecular ecology research, from field collection to experimental hypothesis testing in the laboratory.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 371 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Viruses infect every organism and are a fundamental driver of biologic processes. This course is an in-depth examination of the biology of viruses, focused on general virus replication strategies; specific viruses and their impacts on human health; and specialized topics in virology, including cancer virology, vaccines, and the use of viral vectors in biotechnology. Critical reading of the primary virological literature is an important element of the course.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 373L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Required corequisite to BIOL 373. This laboratory introduces students to basic methodology involved in virology research while conducting novel experiments to investigate virus-cell interactions.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 373 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Provides an investigation of the molecular and cellular components of the vertebrate immune system, emphasizing human immunology. Investigates the general principles that govern different components of the immune system and integrates those principles to develop a broad understanding of immune function. Topics include the generation of immunologic memory, consequences of immune system malfunction, manipulation of the immune system to positively impact human health, and methods that facilitate investigation of new questions about immune system function.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Provides students an in-depth study of modern genetics, focusing on topics that may include quantitative genetics, molecular genetics, medical genetics, conservation genetics or the applications of technology in genetics. Emphasis is on critical reading of the scientific literature and examining current experiments that lead us to our understanding of these topics. When offered, BIOL 375L is a required corequisite.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Required corequisite to BIOL 375. This laboratory is a semester-long investigative project in which students have some responsibility for experimental design.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 375 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
This seminar and laboratory course examines the physiology of the nervous system. Topics include ion channel structure and function, synaptic transmission, second messenger systems, neuromodulation, the neurophysiological basis of behavior in “simple” animals, the evolution of neural circuits, the cellular basis of learning and memory, and the cellular basis of selected human nervous system diseases.
Credits: 1.00 Crosslisted:NEUR 384 & PSYC 384 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:NEUR 170 or PSYC 170 or PSYC 275 or BIOL 182 or BIOL 212 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Neuroethology is a sub-field of neuroscience focused on the study of the neural basis of natural behavior. Many types of behavior and a wide array of animals are studied, and the approach is often comparative and evolutionary. Students delve into the neuroethological literature, examining the neural basis of animal communication, navigation, movement, sensory processing, feeding, aggression, and learning.
Credits: 1.00 Crosslisted:NEUR 385 & PSYC 385 Corequisite:BIOL 385L Prerequisites:NEUR 170 or PSYC 170 or PSYC 275 or BIOL 182 or BIOL 212 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Recommended:PSYC 309 or BIOL 320 (formerly BIOL 220) is recommended. Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Required corequisite to BIOL 385. Laboratory exercises teach methods of behavioral analysis and electrophysiological recording techniques.
Credits: 0.25 Corequisite:BIOL 385 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Examines the cell biology behind the functioning of the nervous system. Students explore how cells make fate decisions during neural development, how neurons elaborate the complex structures they take on, how they form and refine specific connections, and how these together allow the precise transmissions of complex signals. Students also examine the molecular pathways by which sensory systems transduce physical stimuli into electrochemical signals and integrate that information into the nervous system.
Credits: 1.00 Crosslisted:NEUR 389 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 182 or BIOL 212 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Opportunity for individual study in areas not covered by formal course offerings, under the guidance of a member of the faculty.
Credits: variable Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
BIOL 392 - Topics in Molecular Biosciences (NIH Study Group)
This classroom-based course will meet one day weekly. Students will take turns leading a discussion summarizing the primary literature relating to each individual’s research project. Each student will also be required to write a summary of the literature presented by the other students in the course. Students will be evaluated on the basis of their oral presentation, weekly summaries, and class participation.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Together, this course and BIOL 493 comprise the research component of the study group experience at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Students choose a research lab at the NIH and spend a minimum of 30 hours each week engaged in a research project under the direction of an NIH researcher. Projects are meaningful and authentic, pushing the frontier of science in some area of biomedical science.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 493 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Every living organism is comprised of one or more cells. This course examines how cells grow, reproduce, and maintain themselves, and how cellular activities contribute to the organization and maintenance of multicellular organisms. Course topics include investigating the function of specific organelles and the cytoskeleton, intracellular protein transport, mechanisms of cell cycle regulation and programmed cell death, and cell-cell interactions.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 326
Multi-cellular plants and animals develop from totipotent stem cells that are capable of making every cell type within the organism and also preserving the information needed to make additional generations. In addition, stem cells within the body contribute cells to organs throughout life and can in many cases regenerate large amounts of tissue following damage. This course examines the biology behind stem cells, both embryonic and adult cells in plants and animals, focusing on the genes and pathways that make stem cells unique in their proliferative and differentiating capacity. Additionally, this course explores the basis for regeneration, including both stem cells and cellular dedifferentiation, and examines what may limit regeneration in certain systems where it does not occur. It also explores what happens when tight control over cell proliferation and differentiation is disrupted, leading to cancer.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 407L Prerequisites:BIOL 201 or BIOL 202 or BIOL 203 or BIOL 204 or BIOL 205 or BIOL 206 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None Formerly: BIOL 327
This research tutorial provides students the opportunity to plan, conduct, and present original research in the area of global health and infectious disease epidemiology. Projects involve investigations in the field, laboratory, and/or data analysis. Potential topics for projects include mapping neglected tropical disease (specifically soil transmitted helminths parasite), and their impact on maternal and child health. In addition the role of H. pylori infection in extra-gastroduodenal diseases in general, in child growth development, anemia and allergic disorders in particular will be investigated in this research tutorial laboratory.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
This research tutorial investigates the molecular mechanisms that regulate development in the nematode C. elegans. With the help of the instructor, students design and implement experiments that utilize genetic, molecular, and microscopic techniques to understand how small RNAs, called microRNAs, and the proteins that control their expression regulate development.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
BIOL 476 - Investigations in Biodiversity, Community, and Ecosystem Ecology
Research in the lab centers on the causes of species richness patterns and how perturbations (climate change) affect those patterns. Research projects often apply the lens of climate change (e.g., biodiversity loss, global warming, increased carbon dioxide, pollution) and test explicit hypotheses on plant, community, and ecosystem responses (i.e., N deposition, fire frequency) to perturbations. Students have the opportunity to use cutting-edge laboratory, computer, and field-based methods (e.g., mass spectrometry, ecophylogenetics, carbon dioxide flux) to address these questions.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
BIOL 477 - Molecular Control of Neural Development
This research tutorial explores the molecular and cellular basis of the development and growth of the nervous system. With the guidance of the instructor, students design and carry out an experimental plan that applies techniques from molecular biology and cell biology to open questions in developmental neurobiology. Potential topics include signaling pathways that control neural stem cells, neural plasticity, and control of regeneration following damage.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
BIOL 478 - Animal Systematics, Phylogeny, and Development
This research tutorial exposes students to the theory and practice of systematics and their application to the study of animal ecology and evolution; it also provides experience in developmental genetics. Topics include life history evolution of marine invertebrates, biogeography of deep-sea hot vent animals, and the developmental evolution of animal body plans. In the laboratory, students pursue independent research projects using molecular techniques, and phylogenetic analytical methods.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Evolutionary ecology is the study of how ecological interactions among organisms (e.g., pollination, predation, competition, etc.) influence evolutionary change. With the guidance of the instructor, individual students or small teams test novel hypotheses in evolutionary ecology using field and/or laboratory research methods. Projects usually fall under the umbrella of plant-animal interactions, evolutionary genetics, the maintenance of variation in natural populations, or disease ecology.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
In a normal eukaryotic cell cycle, the chromosomal DNA and the centrosome of a cell are replicated once, and only once, during S phase to ensure that each daughter cell receives exactly one complement of genomic material and centrosomes. In this research tutorial, students use cellular and molecular techniques to understand the mechanisms underlying this complex phenomenon. Specifically, they investigate mechanisms through which transcription factors regulate genomic stability, normal centrosome duplication, cellular senescence, autophagy, and DNA repair.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Quantitative techniques have become a crucial tool in recent years for analyzing biological systems, a field which has been flooded with highly detailed experimental data due to new advanced data acquisition techniques in the biological sciences. This interdisciplinary research tutorial explores the analysis of biological systems using quantitative approaches such as mathematical modeling, statistical learning, and computer programming. With the guidance of the instructor, students choose a biological problem of their interest and analyze it using quantitative techniques. The research topics include (but are not limited to) gene regulation, disease networks, and cell cycle regulation.
Credits: 1.00 Crosslisted:MATH 481 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
This laboratory-based, research-oriented course examines the molecular and cellular mechanisms that enable animals to withstand a variety of environmental conditions. Students design, implement, and report on their own original research using various approaches, from classical physiology and biochemistry to modern molecular biology.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Most macromolecules expressed in cells must be targeted to specific intracellular locations where they can perform their intended functions. This research tutorial examines the mechanism by which specific proteins undergo regulated transport into and out of the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. Students use classical and molecular genetics to identify genes encoding proteins involved in nuclear transport, and utilize recombinant DNA techniques, biochemistry, and microscopy to characterize the newly identified proteins and their interactions with other nuclear transport factors.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
This research tutorial examines the mechanism and regulation of cellular gene expression in response to infection by mammalian reovirus. Students address these questions by conducting independent laboratory research projects using biochemical, molecular biological, and cell biological approaches.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
This research tutorial explores issues, methodology, and experimental designs in fields associated with animal and human behavior including molecular ecology, behavioral ecology, conservation biology, and behavioral genetics of social insects and humans. Research can involve both field and laboratory work.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
This research tutorial allows students to learn a variety of molecular genetic and bioinformatic techniques to address questions of how genetic variation affects function in eukaryotic organisms. With the guidance of the instructor, students design projects to address questions on genetic effects on behavior and body form in dogs or on gene expression.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Provides students with an opportunity to do research in freshwater ecology. Projects are field- or laboratory-oriented investigations of either stream or lake ecology and often require a group effort. In conversation with the instructor, the student designs a study that is of mutual interest to the student and faculty member. Past projects have involved predator-prey relations or competition among stream insects, role of bank-side vegetation in influencing stream macroinvertebrate communities, bacterial/algal interactions in streams, nutrient limitation of algae, effects of insect grazers on stream algae, or the impact of acid deposition on both the structure and function of streams.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites:BIOL 335 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
This research tutorial provides students the opportunity to plan, conduct, and present original research in terrestrial ecology. Projects involve investigations in the field, laboratory, or both. Students focus on a particular species or group of species according to interest and feasibility. Potential topics for projects include invasive species, acid deposition, and competition among similar species. Emphasis is placed on the application of ecological, behavioral, and physiological principles to understanding the abundance and distribution of species in real landscapes.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
BIOL 489 - Research in Plant Physiological Ecology
This research tutorial uses plants to investigate the relationships between internal events (physiology) and external events (ecology) by combining current readings from the primary scientific literature with laboratory and field experiments. Topics include energetics, reproductive strategies, and seed dormancy and germination. The goal is completion of a project suitable for publication in a scientific journal. Students learn how to search literature, critique articles, design experiments, collect and analyze data, and present information in manuscript form to submit for publication.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Opportunity for individual study in areas not covered by formal course offerings, under the guidance of a member of the faculty.
Credits: variable Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Together, BIOL 393 and this course comprise the research component of the study group experience at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Students choose a research lab at the NIH and spend a minimum of 30 hours each week engaged in a research project under the direction of an NIH researcher. Projects are meaningful and authentic, pushing the frontier of science in some area of biomedical science.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite:BIOL 393 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
CHEM 100 - The Chemistry of Altered and Natural Environments
To grapple with the complex environmental questions faced by modern society, the science that explains the phenomenon we observe must be understood. From endocrine disruptors to the ozone hole, global warming to plastics, and nuclear technology to acid rain, chemical principles allow one to understand, predict, and potentially mitigate the consequences of environmental changes in our modern age. This course provides an introduction to chemical principles and their application toward environmental issues. It focuses on those principles that are crucial in understanding environments and present-day environmental challenges. This course is designed for students who are interested in environmental science and environmental studies. There is no prior chemical knowledge expected, and there are no prerequisites. This course is not part of the CHEM 101/102 sequence of general chemistry.
Credits: 1.00 Corequisite: None Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Restrictions: Students who have already taken or received credit for CHEM 101/CHEM 102 or CHEM 111 are ineligible for CHEM 100. Students who have taken CHEM 100 may take CHEM 101/CHEM 102. Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
The first half of a two-term sequence that introduces chemical principles that apply to all areas of chemistry. This course deals with molecular and reaction stoichiometry, gases, the first law of thermodynamics, the electronic structure of atoms, the periodic table, chemical bonding, and molecular geometry.
Credits: 1.00 When Offered: Fall semester only
Corequisite:CHEM 101L Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Corequisite:CHEM 101 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
The second half of a two-term sequence that introduces chemical principles that apply to all areas of chemistry. It covers transition metal complexes, chemical kinetics, nuclear chemistry, equilibria, acids and bases (with emphasis on equilibrium studies), the second law of thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and some descriptive chemistry of the more common elements.
Credits: 1.00 When Offered: Spring semester only
Corequisite:CHEM 102L Prerequisites:CHEM 101 with a grade of C- or higher. Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Corequisite:CHEM 102 Prerequisites:CHEM 101L or CHEM 101 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
A one-term course designed for the well-prepared first-year student. CHEM 111 covers many of the same fundamentals covered in CHEM 101 and 102, but treats those ideas in greater depth. Enrollment requires a score of 4 or 5 on the AP exam, an A or B on A-level exam in chemistry, a score of 6 or 7 on the higher level IB chemistry exam, or a 650 or higher on the SAT II Chemistry Exam. Students enrolled in CHEM 111 who meet the standards by the AP exam may receive only one advanced placement credit for general chemistry. CHEM 111 (or CHEM 101-102) serves as a prerequisite for CHEM 263, 264 (Organic Chemistry), or CHEM 333, 334 (Physical Chemistry).
Credits: 1.00 When Offered: Fall semester only
Corequisite:CHEM 111L Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: Only First-year Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Corequisite:CHEM 111 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
An introduction to structure, bonding, and reactivity across the periodic table. The course begins by comparing the valence-bond and molecular-orbital models of bonding for small covalent compounds. Then, the solid state is explored, focusing on how bonding in ionic compounds, metals, and network-covalent compounds affects their behavior as materials. Additional topics include bonding in transition-metal complexes, reactivity in solution, and the use of physical methods such as spectroscopy and crystallography to elucidate elements of structure and reactivity.
Credits: 1.00 When Offered: Spring semester only
Corequisite:CHEM 212L Prerequisites:CHEM 102 or CHEM 111 (may be taken concurrently) Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None
Corequisite:CHEM 212 Prerequisites: None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts CORE: None