The following course descriptions are from the Clarke University 2012-2013 Academic Catalog.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS: BIOLOGY
BIOL 101 INTRODUCTION TO LIFE SCIENCES 3 hours
Designed for non-science majors, this course focuses on a major topic in the life sciences, such as human genetics, human evolution or conservation. Study of the specific topic leads to a basic literacy in methods, concepts and significant developments in the area. Students enhance their understanding through the communication of scientific and quantitative information. This course includes additional exploration of the impact of science and technology on society within the context of the topic. Three hours lecture. This course is designated as math/natural sciences division general education course.
BIOL 102 BIOLOGY OF THE HUMAN BODY 3 hours
Biology is the study of life. In this course, students are introduced to basic biological concepts and develop a fundamental understanding of human anatomy and physiology. The course will begin with a look at how we define life, and then move into an examination of cells, tissues and organs. The majority of the course will be spent studying the organ systems of the human body. For each system studied, students are expected to learn both anatomy (basic structural components, including appropriate terminology) and physiology (basic functions). This two-credit course is accompanied by a one-credit laboratory, which all students must take concurrently. This course is designated as math/natural sciences division general education course.
BIOL 115 FUNDAMENTAL CELL BIOLOGY AND GENETICS 4 hours
Presentation of the major unifying concepts of biology, including cell structure and function, metabolism and genetics. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: Two years of high school algebra or MATH 005. This course is designated as math/natural sciences division general education course.
BIOL 116 ECOLOGY, EVOLUTION AND DIVERSITY 4 hours
Second semester of the introductory biology sequence, this course explores diversity (what organisms have lived and are living today on earth? How are they similar to and different from each other?); ecology (what are the diverse ways in which organisms interact with their environment?); and evolution (how did this diversity arise and how does it continue to change?). Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 115. This course is designated as math/natural sciences division general education course.
BIOL 132 INTRODUCTION TO MICROBIOLOGY 4 hours
Emphasis on the application of the science of microbiology to a health care environment. Topics discussed include the spread of infectious disease, antibiotics, the immune system, vaccines, bacterial growth and viruses. The lab component of the course focuses on aseptic technique, the control of microbial growth, and identification of bacteria using staining, differential media and biochemical tests. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: Two years of high school algebra or MATH 005.
BIOL 204 ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY 3 hours
Environmental biology incorporates natural and social sciences (biology, chemistry, physics, geology, economics, ethics, law and sociology) to understand and solve environmental problems. These problems occur in two major categories: resource depletion (overhunting, deforestation, mining) and environmental degradation (pollution). Lectures, exams, field trips and discussions in this course will explore the ecological basis of and solutions to these environmental problems. Service-learning projects, in which students pursue some aspect of environmental biology to the benefit of a community partner, will allow students to move beyond the text and lectures into an area of their choice. Two hours lecture; two hours laboratory. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. This course is designated as math/natural sciences division general education course.
BIOL 211 HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I 4 hours
In-depth study of the remarkably complex and fascinating structures and functions of the human body. The interdependence of all systems within the body becomes increasingly apparent as the course progresses through the detailed study of cells and tissues of the body as well as the integument, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. Weekly, detailed cadaver prosections in the gross anatomy laboratory offer an unparalleled opportunity to understand the internal structure of the amazing human body. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 115 or BIOL 132.
BIOL 212 HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II 4 hours
Continuation of the journey toward a greater understanding of the complexity of the human body, as the structure and function of the endocrine, respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems are examined in advanced presentation stressing integration of systems and homeostatic control of internal environment and organs. Emphasis is on the interdependence of the functioning of all systems. Weekly, detailed cadaver prosections further support the lecture material and provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the internal structure of the human body. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 211.
BIOL 225 ANIMAL BEHAVIOR 3 or 4 hours
The scientific study of animal behavior bridges the social and biological sciences and forms a body of data from which philosophers and scientists may refine questions about the relationships between humans and other animals. This course stresses the comparative approach to animal behavior and covers two of the most productive strategies: ethology, the study of animals in their natural environment; and comparative psychology, mainly laboratory comparisons of a single type of behavior among different species. In this course the student is exposed to classical studies and ideas influencing contemporary debates. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 116 or consent. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory for 4 credits. When course is offered for 3 credits, there will be no lab component. Prerequisite: BIOL 116 or consent.
BIOL 230 VERTEBRATE STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION 4 hours
An analysis of adaptation, ecology, and systematics as a framework for the interpretation of vertebrate structure. The course includes surveys of vertebrate groups and organ systems. The laboratory involves comparative dissection of several vertebrates. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 116.
BIOL 240 PLANT BIOLOGY 4 hours
A survey of the groups of photosynthetic organisms and study of structure, physiology and evolutionary relationships. The changes that characterize the major adaptive transitions are emphasized, including evolution of vascular tissue, seeds and flowers. Three hour lecture; three hours laboratory.
BIOL 270 GENETICS 4 hours
A comprehensive study of genetic concepts and applications, this course includes a historical overview of the field of genetics, discussions of ethical issues such as eugenics, and classical genetic analysis, molecular technology, and population genetics. Concepts will be applied through problem-solving and laboratory experiences. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 115.
BIOL 280 TOPICS IN BIOLOGY 1-3 hours
Study of a particular current topic of importance in biology. Topics will vary according to the needs of the students and the interests of the faculty.
BIOL 295 INTERNSHIPS 1-3 hours
Off-campus or field experiences, usually observations.
BIOL 320 SUBTROPICAL ECOLOGY 2-3 hours
Study of subtropical ecosystems, including the ocean. Focus in each location is on plant and animal communities as well as effects of the physical environment and human activities on the organisms’ lives and interactions. A two-week camping trip is part of the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 116 or consent, and at least sophomore standing.
BIOL 332 MICROBIOLOGY 4 hours
A one-semester course in which students study the structure, physiology and genetics of microorganisms. The use of microorganisms as a genetic model and in biotechnology is also stressed. Students explore the relationship between microbes and man, microbial diversity, immunology, antibiotics and industrial applications of microbiology. The lab component of the course focuses on aseptic technique, staining, differentiation and classification of microorganisms, and environmental factors that influence growth. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 270.
BIOL 335 IMMUNOLOGY 2 hours
Introduction to terminology and broad concepts emphasizing definitions and relations of antigens and antibodies, host-antigen interactions, bursal and thymic influences on lymphoid cells, and humoral and cellular response mechanisms. Two hours lecture. Prerequisite: BIOL 332 or consent.
BIOL 350 ADVANCED CELL BIOLOGY 3 hours
In-depth study of eukaryotic cells, including structure and function of membranes and organelles, bioenergetics, photosynthesis, the cytoskeleton, cellular movement and chemical signals. Three hours lecture. Prerequisite: BIOL 270.
BIOL 365 EVOLUTION 4 hours
Evolution is the study of changes in populations and species over time. This course will examine natural and sexual selection (forces that adapt organisms to their environment) as well as genetic drift (random changes in gene pools). It will explore evidence for evolution from fields as diverse as paleontology, comparative anatomy and molecular biology. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 270.
BIOL 385 SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION 1 hour
Focuses on communication in science including methods of presentation such as poster, oral and written formats. Includes both library and online retrieval of scientific information using chemical and biological abstracts and other databases. Analysis of technical writing is included through reading and discussion of current primary scientific literature. Prerequisite: Major with sophomore or junior standing.
BIOL 395 INTERNSHIPS 1-3 hours
Off-campus laboratory or field experiences.
BIOL 410 HUMAN GROSS ANATOMY 4 hours
Utilizing dissection as the major learning method, the fascinating and complex regions of the human body are studied. Emphasis is on the upper and lower extremities, including joint dissection. The thoracic and abdominal cavities are explored along with the musculature of the torso. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 116 or BIOL 211 and senior standing or consent.
BIOL 420 HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY 4 hours
Physiology of the tissue, organs and systems of the human body. Mechanisms of nerve function, muscle contraction, circulation, respiration, excretion and hormonal regulation. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 116 or BIOL 211 and at least junior standing.
BIOL 425 EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 4 hours
Exercise physiology addresses issues regarding the acute responses and chronic adaptations to exercise in health and disease. Specific areas of discussion include changes in the cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal systems following acute and chronic exercise, changes in physiologic adaptation related to aging, nutritional and ergogenic issues,and functional assessment. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 116 or BIOL 211 and at least junior standing.
BIOL 445 NEUROSCIENCE 4 hours
Examination of the neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neuropathology of the human central nervous system. Topics include histology, development, electrical models of cell signaling, neurotransmitters, vasculature and systems neuroscience. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 116 or BIOL 211 and senior standing or consent.
BIOL 451 MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 4 hours
Going beyond the processes of replication, transcription and translation, this course focuses on how DNA regulates cellular and developmental processes. Particular emphasis will also be given to molecular biotechnology and the current developments in this ever-changing field. In the lab, students will learn a variety of techniques including how to clone a gene, Southern blotting, restriction mapping, DNA fingerprinting, PCR and DNA sequencing. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 270.
BIOL 480 TOPICS IN BIOLOGY 1-3 hours
Study of a particular current topic of importance in biology. Topics will vary according to the needs of the students and the interests of the faculty.
BIOL 486 RESEARCH METHODS 2 hours
Students will design and implement experiments that explore a biological system using a variety of different techniques. Interpretation of results and statistical analysis are also important components of the course. Two hour lecture/lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 385.
BIOL 499 CAPSTONE: BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH 1 hour
This course provides integration of a liberal arts education with use of the scientific method. Students will have the option to conduct an experimental laboratory or field research project, or to develop a research proposal for the BS degree. A literature review or a research proposal is required for the BA degree. Each student will work under the direction of a faculty member. All students will submit a paper and give an oral presentation. General education and major outcomes will be assessed. Completion of this course satisfies the senior performance requirement for the biology department as well as the capstone experience for general education. Prerequisite: Biol 385, junior or senior standing with a minimum of 42 credit hours of general education completed.