DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

Chair: Mathew P. Rowe (936) 294-1540; MPR002@shsu.edu

Faculty: Karölis R. Bagdonas, Theodore J. Brummel, Jerry L. Cook, Tamara J. Cook, James R. DeShaw, Harold F. Foerster, Anne R. Gaillard, Joan E. N. Hudson, William I. Lutterschmidt, Diane L. H. Neudorf, Todd P. Primm, Monte L. Thies, Jack C. Turner, Justin K. Williams, Everett D. Wilson

Website: www.shsu.edu/~bio_www/

Mission

The Department of Biological Sciences is dedicated to the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge and scientific discovery in the life sciences through innovative teaching and research programs. The Department strives to instill in its students the philosophy of lifelong scholarship, producing scientifically literate members of society who have the knowledge to contribute and compete in a rapidly changing world.

Academic Programs

• BA in Biology
• BS in Biology
• BS in Environmental Science (see Environmental Science Sequence within this chapter)

Biology, the study of living things, is an exciting and dynamic field that offers many areas of focus. Students may choose to study how life forms function at the molecular, cellular, organismal or ecological levels. The biological sciences provide opportunities to study viruses, bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals and to investigate the biochemical, physiological, anatomical, behavioral, or ecological processes that make each organism unique.

Highlights

The Department of Biological Sciences is located in the Lee Drain Building, which houses facilities including teaching and research laboratories, the Warner Herbarium, Sam Houston State Vertebrate Museum and Texas Bird Sound Library, an animal rearing facility, greenhouse, outdoor aviary, and scanning electron microscopy, molecular, microbiology, and flow cytometry laboratories.

The Department operates the Center for Biological Field Studies, a 250 acre field station within 5 miles of campus that is dedicated to biological and environmental research and teaching.

Student Organizations

• Beta Beta Beta (TriBeta) is an undergraduate national Biological Honor society. The organization was founded in 1922 and the Delta Tau chapter at SHSU was chartered in 1965. TriBeta is dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of the biological sciences and encouraging/supporting undergraduate student scientific research. TriBeta membership requires: (1) a declared major in Biology, Environmental Science or related biological field, (2) completion of two biology courses (associate member) and one 300 or 400 course (regular member) with BIO GPA of 3.0, and (3) an overall SHSU GPA of 2.75. Membership invitations are sent to eligible students each fall and spring semester. Dr. Joan E.N. Hudson is the TriBeta faculty sponsor.
• Sam Houston Association of Medical Oriented Students (SHAMOS) membership is available to any student interested in pursuing a career in the medical or allied health field. Activities include fundraisers, community service projects, blood drives with the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center, and canned food drives. SHAMOS sponsors an outside speaker program to inform students of the opportunities and benefits of the various disciplines of the medical arts (e.g., general and specialist dentistry, general and specialist medicine, occupational therapy, physician assistant, podiatry, forensic pathology, and EMS). Dr. Karölis R. Bagdonas serves as the faculty advisor.

Internships

The Department of Biological Sciences believes that “hands on” experiences, through either internships or faculty directed independent studies, are an important complement to a student’s formal coursework. Moreover, undergraduate research experience is critical for students applying to graduate programs or professional schools. We therefore encourage all Biology students to consider participating in an internship or independent research project; such participation is required for the Environmental Science Program. Students seeking information regarding internships and/or independent research experiences should contact one of the following faculty: Dr. James DeShaw for Environmental Science students; and Dr. Matthew Rowe for all others.

Scholarships

Academic scholarships are available from both the Department of Biological Sciences and the University to support student studies. The Department of Biological Sciences scholarships include:

• Biology & Environmental Science Academic Scholarship
• Claude McLeod Academic Scholarship
• Emma Normand Academic Scholarship
• James D. Long Biology Endowment
• Patrick Neil O’Bryant Academic Scholarship
• James Patrick Weber Environmental Science Award
• S.R. Warner Academic Scholarship
• Wilson–Warner Endowed Scholarship in the Biological Sciences
• Roy Turner Scholarship Endowment

Departmental scholarship information may be obtained by writing to Scholarships, Department of Biological Sciences, Box 2116, SHSU, Huntsville, Texas 77341-2116 or by visiting our website at www.shsu.edu/~bio_www. Information on University scholarships may be obtained from the Office of Academic Scholarships website at www.shsu.edu/~sfa_www/scholarship.html or telephone (936) 294-1672.

Program Specific Requirements

Candidates for the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology are required to complete a Major Field Achievement Test (MFAT) in Biology to be eligible for graduation. The Department of Biological Sciences administers the MFAT once during both the Fall and Spring semesters at no cost to the student. A student is eligible to take the MFAT upon completion of all required biology credits or during the semester immediately prior to graduation (August graduates must take the examination during the Spring semester immediately prior to graduation). The student, with written permission from the Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, may substitute another national or state examination (MCAT, DAT, OAT, TExES) in place of the MFAT; however, the student is responsible for the examination costs. The exam score, although part of the student’s record, has no effect on the student’s GPA.

BIOLOGY PROGRAM

Major in Biology: All students majoring in Biology will develop competence in the fundamental principles of biology and will gain experience in botany, zoology, cellular biology, microbiology, genetics, and ecology. Students take an active role in creating a degree plan that best meets their interests and their career goals. Most students pursue careers in terrestrial ecology, animal physiology, animal behavior, medical professions, biotechnology, or teacher education. Students interested in forensic science combine an extensive background in biology with substantial coursework in chemistry and criminal justice to prepare them for work with state and federal agencies.

Required Courses for the Major

The biology major may choose from two degree programs, the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science. All majors must complete the following core courses:

BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, 340, 345, 347, 410, and 411 (25 hrs.).

Students may choose their area of specialization contingent upon completion of the required core courses.

Note: Commencing with the 2000-2002 Catalog, SHSU no longer offers BIO 138/118 and BIO 139/119. However, the Department will permit students who successfully completed the BIO138/118 and BIO 139/119 sequence at another institution to substitute these courses for BIO 161/111 and BIO 162/112, respectively.

Major in Biology

Bachelor of Arts

Major in Biology

Bachelor of Science

* Advanced Electives should be selected according to specific areas of study as determined by the student and their academic advisor.
** Recommended minor is CHM, ESC, GEL, MTH, or PHY.
Note: Students should use the elective and/or minor hours to meet the 42-advanced hour requirement for graduation with either the BA or BS degree.

Choice of Restricted Electives in Biology

A student working toward a BA degree must complete four upper division (300/400 level) courses in addition to the core courses. A student working toward a BS degree must complete the core curriculum courses and specialize their degree program by taking five upper division (300/400 level) courses from their area of focus. Students choosing to generalize their program, such as those working toward teacher education, may elect to take their courses from several focus groups. Students should consult with an academic advisor in the Biological Sciences early in their degree program regarding appropriate choices for their restricted electives.

Teacher Certification in Science and Life Sciences

Biology Majors

Students may receive teacher certification in either Science or Life Sciences for grades 8-12; however, degree requirements for Secondary Teacher Certification in Science and Life Sciences are under revision. Contact the department chair for information about courses leading to certification. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree is not available for the Science certification program.

For teacher certification, no grade below C in the science composite coursework is accepted.

Bachelor of Science in Science with Life Science Emphasis

Students seeking certification in Physical Science and secondary certification in Biology, Chemistry, Geology, or Physics at the secondary level (grades 8-12) may choose to complete the Composite Science BS degree program. Students choose an area of specialization beyond the general science core of CHM 138/118, 139/119, 238/218; BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, 340, 341, 345, 392; GEO 131/111; GEL 133/113, 134/114, 330; PHY 138/118, 139/119, 397/317; and MTH 142 and MTH170 or 379. The Life Science emphasis requires completion of BIO 340, 341, 345, 392, and 6 hrs. of advanced BIO electives. The required education courses are: SED 383, 394, 464, 480, 496, 497, RDG 392, SCM 384, SED 374, or PSY 374.

For teacher certification, no grade below C in the science coursework is accepted.

Biology and Life Science Minors

Biology minors seeking certification in Life Sciences at the secondary level (grades 8-12) are required to complete CHM 138/118, 139/119, BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, 340, 341, 345, 347, and 392. The composite science program is not available for the minor. Students not seeking certification must complete BIO 340, 345, 347, plus two advanced BIO courses that best fit their educational needs. They should use their electives to fill the University requirement for advanced hours. The required education courses are: SED 383, 394, 464, 480, 496, 497, RDG 392, SCM 384, SED 374, or PSY 374. For teacher certification, no grade below C in the science composite coursework is accepted.

Curriculum: Bachelor of Science

Major In Biology with Emphasis in Forensic Science

Students seeking a background that will prepare them for careers in Forensic Science can select advanced courses that lead to a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry and/or Criminal Justice. Courses in the major should be selected from BIO 341, 342, 344, 345, 347, 349, 431, 432, 449, 474, 480, and 494. Courses for the Chemistry minor should be selected from CHM 339, 348, 440, 441, 458, and 495. The minor in Criminal Justice may include CJ 261, 267, 268, 273, 294, 366, 462, 465, and 488.

Minor in Biology with Emphasis in Forensic Science

Students seeking a background that will prepare them for careers in Forensic Science can select advanced courses that lead to a major in Chemistry (see Department of Chemistry) and a minor in Biology. The following courses are required for the Forensic Science minor: BIO 341 or 342, 345, 347, 480, 349 or 449, and 432, or 474.

Major In Biology with Emphasis in Biotechnology

To satisfy the Bachelor of Science degree requirements, Biology majors desiring to prepare for careers in biotechnology should take the following advanced courses: BIO 344, 345, 347, 349, 410, 411, 435, 449, 480, BIO Advanced Elective, and BIO 474 or MTH 379. These students also should take a minor in chemistry, including CHM 348 and 440. Internships (BIO 494) are available to qualified students. For further details about biotechnology, see the department chair.

Major In Biology with Emphasis in Preprofessional Studies

Biology majors following the preprofessional curricula of premedicine, predentistry, prephysical therapy, and preveterinary medicine should take the following Biology courses: BIO 342, 344, 347, and 349. General electives recommended for preprofessional students are BIO 348, 435, 446, 449, 474, and 480. For detailed course requirements in specialized fields, consult the Preprofessional Studies listings of this catalog.

Curriculum: Minor in Biology
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science

Students seeking a minor in biology are required to complete CHM 138/118, 139/119, BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, 340, 345, 347, plus one elective course. Students seeking a secondary teaching certificate along with their biology minor should include BIO 341 or BIO 392 as their restricted elective for a minimum of 26 semester hours of biology.

Biology Course Descriptions

BIO 134 Contemporary Biology. [BIOL 1308] Presentation for the non-science major of biological concepts and topical subjects related to science methods, embryological development, reproduction, genetics, evolution, human organ systems, disease, and environmental biology. Ethical considerations of reproduction and birth control, genetic engineering, environmental pollution and population control will be included. Credit in BIO 134 as a laboratory science is contingent upon completion of BIO 114. Credit in this course cannot be applied to either a major or minor in the sciences. Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 114 Contemporary Biology Laboratory. [BIOL 1108] Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 1.

BIO 137 Environmental Science. [BIO 2306] A general course designed to cover all areas relating to contemporary ecological problems. Topics include air, water, and soil pollution; radiation, limnology, climate, pesticides, wastes, and land conservation. Fall, Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 117 Environmental Science Laboratory. [BIO 2106] Fall, Spring. Credit 1.

BIO 161 General Botany. [BIO 1311]. General principles of botany are presented. Emphasis is placed on morphology, taxonomy, genetics, physiology, and ecology of plants in an evolutionary and ecological context. Students may begin sequence with either BIO 161 or 162. Credit for BIO 161 as a laboratory science is contingent on completion of BIO 111. Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 111 General Botany Laboratory. [BIO 1111] Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 1.

BIO 162 General Zoology. [BIO 1313]. General principles of zoology are presented in an evolutionary context. Emphasis is placed on the anatomy, behavior, and ecology of animals. Students are introduced to evolutionary and ecological principles of biology. Students may begin sequence with either BIO 161 or 162. Credit for BIO 162 as a laboratory science is contingent on completion of BIO 112. Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 112 General Zoology Laboratory. [BIO 1113] Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 1.

BIO 234 Introductory Cell Biology. A general cellular approach to biological principles is presented, including scientific methods, origins of life, biochemistry, cell structure, metabolism, cellular evolution, and cell division. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111 and BIO 162/112. Fall, Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 245 Human Anatomy. [BIOL 2401] This course deals with structure and form of the human body. It includes studies of cells, tissues, and organ systems. Registration is primarily for students in prenursing or majors in kinesiology or health. Credit in this course cannot be applied to either a major or minor in Biology. Two-hour laboratory. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 246 Human Physiology. [BIOL 2402] This course will help students identify and understand the function of several important human organ systems and how these systems maintain homeostasis. Topics and the mechanisms involving circulation, digestion, metabolism, muscle action and respiration will receive the most emphasis. This course is designed to emphasize a clinical knowledge of physiology and techniques required by students studying nursing, physical therapy, and related health fields. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 245. Two-hour laboratory. Fall and Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 247 Introductory Applied Microbiology. [BIOL 2420] An introduction to microorganisms, their morphology, growth requirements, methods of culture, and the manner in which they affect health. Reactions of the body toward pathogenic organisms and the principles of immunity and chemotherapy are considered. Credit in this course cannot be applied to a major or minor in Biology. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 336 Fish, Wildlife, Recreation Management. The history and basic principles, philosophy and concepts of wildlife management as they relate to habitats, people, and the problems associated with their interactions. Three-hour laboratory and field work. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112. Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 340 General Ecology. A study of physical and biotic components of the environment, responses of organisms to their environment, community ecology, natural ecosystems, and human’s interaction with ecosystems. Field studies are an integral part of the laboratory. Threehour laboratory and field work. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 341 Human Biology. This course deals with the study of structure and function of the human body. The structure of various organ systems are discussed and their function as organs and systems described. This course is not recommended for preprofessional students. Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234. Two-hour laboratory. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 342 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. A study of representative vertebrates, their anatomy, ontogeny, and phylogeny. The course is required of premedical students. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112 or consent of the instructor. Three-hour laboratory. Even year, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 343 Plant Physiology. General course dealing with principal life processes of plants. Topics include photosynthesis, respiration, nutrition, flowering, dormancy, hormones, growth, and development. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234; CHM 138/118, 139/119. Three-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Odd year, Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 344 General Physiology. The study of the primary mechanisms by which autotrophic and heterotrophic organisms function. Important fundamental aspects of cellular, regulatory, and systemic physiology are presented emphasizing the functional aspect of living systems at the cellular and molecular levels. Students are expected to develop an integrated understanding of the areas presented and recognize the interdependence of these mechanisms in the maintenance of homeostasis. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234; CHM 138/118, 139/119, 238/218. Three-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 345 Introductory Genetics. Study is made of the physical bases of inheritance and principles of heredity and variation. Topics include Mendelian genetics, cytogenetics, molecular basis of genetics, gene expression and regulation, and DNA technologies. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234; CHM 138/118, 139/119. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 346 Pathophysiology. A study of basic physiological systems and underlying system dysfunctions associated with human disease processes across the life span. Relationships between etiologic agents and their consequence to human form and function will be stressed. Critical thinking processes integrating symptoms, treatment and prognosis will be applied to physiological perspectives. Four hours lecture per week. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in CHM 135/115, BIO 245, 246 or consent of the instructor. Credit 4.

BIO 347 General Microbiology. An introduction to microorganisms including bacteria, viruses and fungi. Major areas considered are morphology, physiology, genetics, and pathology. Microorganisms are studied in relation to soil, water, food, industrial processes, and disease. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234 and 8 hrs. of chemistry. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 348 Vertebrate Embryology. This is a study of the early development of representative vertebrates from fertilization until differentiation of organs has been completed. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Even year, Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 349 Histology. A study of animal tissues with emphasis on human materials. Identification and preparatory techniques are stressed. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234; CHM 138/118, 139/119. Three-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 364 Plant Taxonomy. A study of the characteristics and classification of plants emphasizing systematic techniques. Focus on identification of the more common plant families allows transfer of knowledge to other regions of the country and world. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112. Two-hour laboratory. Spring. Writing enhanced. Credit 3.

BIO 369 Economic Entomology. A study of basic principles of entomology as related to modern principles of insect pest management. Included are discussions of the biology and control of economically important insects in Texas. Collections of insects are made. Not open to students with credit in BIO 431. Two hours lecture and two hours laboratory. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, and 234. Even year, Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 371 Plant Pathology. The study of the diseases common to field crops, orchards and gardens in Texas emphasizing the identification, cause and control of these diseases. Two hours lecture and two hours laboratory. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, and 234. Odd year, Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 380 Field Biology. This course provides students with an informative, stimulating, and hands-on introduction to field biology and field research. This course introduces undergraduate students to field methods and to the ecology and natural history of a particular geographic region. This course consists of two parts: a weekly seminar during the semester that introduces and discusses the geographic region and ecological system (i.e. the Florida Everglades), and an off-campus field trip to that location during a semester break. Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, and 234. Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 392 Plant Morphology. Survey of the plant kingdom with emphasis on morphogenesis, comparative structure and life cycles of representative plant forms. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, and 234. Three-hour laboratory. Fall, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 410, Undergraduate Seminar.

BIO 411 Discussions of current literature in the biological sciences. Required of senior Biology majors. Prerequisite: Biology major, Senior standing. Fall, Spring. Credit 1 each.

BIO 430 Vertebrate Natural History. This course deals with the taxonomy, natural history, and ecology of vertebrates. Laboratories emphasize the identification of Texas Vertebrates and field techniques used in their study. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, and Junior standing. Two-hour laboratory. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 431 General Entomology. A study is made of insect morphology, taxonomy, development, and life histories. Collection and identification by use of keys are stressed. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112. Junior standing. Two-hour laboratory. Odd year, Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 432 Environmental Toxicology. (Also listed as ESC 432). This course presents basic toxicology as a qualitative and quantitative science of the effects of poisons (toxins) upon the environment, individuals, and populations. The course will also provide a comparison of the toxicology of human and other species’ exposure to common environmental contaminants. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: BIO 161/111, 162/112, and 247 or 347; MTH 379 or BIO 474; 8 hrs. CHM, and Junior standing. Two one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory. Even year, Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 433 Aquatic Biology. Physical, chemical, and biological features of inland waters; organisms of freshwater; factors in biological productivity; methods and equipment. Largely a field course dealing with various approved methods of studying freshwater systems. This course is designed to meet the needs of chemists, teachers of science, biologists, and environmental scientists. Prerequisites: 11 hrs. biology. Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 8 hrs. CHM, and Junior standing. Two-hour laboratory. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 434 Electron Microscopy. This course is designed to teach students the methods of preparing specimens for electron microscope analysis and to use the electron microscope as a tool to conduct research. Students will become competent in using the electron microscope for visual analysis or chemical elemental analysis. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, and 12 hrs. advanced biology, and Junior standing. Writing enhanced. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 435 Immunology. Humoral and cell-mediated immunobiology, genetics, and chemistry are considered along with immunoanalyses and pathologies. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, 345, 347; CHM 348 and Junior standing. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 437 Microbial Ecology. This course introduces the student to basic ecological concepts through the study of microbial communities. Interactions at the microscopic and macroscopic levels will be discussed along with biogeochemical cycles. Bioremediation concepts will also be explored. Prerequisite: BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, and 247 or 347; CHM 239/219, and Junior standing. Two one-hour lectures and one three-hour laboratory. Credit 3.

BIO 446 Parasitology. Morphology, life cycles, physiological adaptations, evolution, and distribution of parasitic animals. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, and Junior standing. Three-hour laboratory. Odd year, Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 449 Cytology. A physical and chemical study of cells, their ultrastructure and nuclei. Studies of metabolism, growth, differentiation, and reproduction are included with special emphasis on mitosis and meiosis. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, 345; CHM 138/118, 139/119, and Junior standing. Three-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 460 Philosophy of Biology. This course will help the student understand the philosophical issues associated with defining and applying theoretical terms and constructs within evolutionary biology. Minimum grade of C BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, plus 8 hrs. advanced biology, and Junior standing. Writing enhanced. Even year, Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 461 Introductory Evolutionary Biology. Evolution is the core theory of modern biology. Students will be introduced to the major principles of evolutionary biology, from the history of evolutionary thought through theory and current concepts of evolution. Emphasis will be placed on molecular and cellular evolution, mechanisms of evolution including natural selection, gene flow, founder effect, and speciation. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, 8 hrs. advanced biology, and Junior standing. Writing enhanced. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 470 Animal Behavior. A study of the mechanisms and functional explanations of behavior. Experimental approaches to addressing questions of behavior will be emphasized. Topics will include behavioral genetics, neuroethology, migration, habitat selection, foraging, communication, social behavior, reproductive strategies, and human sociobiology. Field studies and independent projects will be integral components of this course. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C BIO 161/111, 162/112, and Junior standing. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 471 Invertebrate Zoology. This course will explore the diversity of invertebrate types morphologically, embryologically and physiologically. The ecological role of invertebrates will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, and Junior standing. Two-hour laboratory. Even year, Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 474 Biostatistics. This course includes an introduction to statistical methods and their application to real biological problems. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability distributions, estimation, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression, and analysis of variance. Use of the computer in statistical analyses will also be stressed. Prerequisites: MTH 170 or 142, 8 hrs. of biology. Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 480 Molecular Biology. This course emphasizes the structural and functional characteristics of proteins, RNA and DNA, and their individual and collective contributions to life. The course provides the conceptual and experimental framework for genetic engineering and the new Biotechnology. Models from prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms as well as viruses and plasmids are used. The laboratory will include methods of gene cloning and electrophoretic analyses of proteins, RNA and DNA. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234, 345, 347; CHM 239/219, and Junior standing. Threehour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 493 Endocrinology. This course is designed to familiarize the student with the structure, development, comparative anatomy, and physiology of the endocrine system. Particular emphasis will be given to the endocrine control of reproductive processes. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234; CHM 138/118, 139/119, and Junior standing. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Odd year, Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 494 Biological Sciences Internship. A supervised, off-campus intern work experience in an approved area of the biological sciences with business, industry or government. This elective course provides the student with direct professional work experience in such areas as biotechnology, biomedical research, ecological assessment, wildlife biology, and science/nature education. Academic credit is based on a written technical report and an oral presentation. Prerequisites: Biology major, 6 hrs. of advanced biology, Junior standing, 3.0 GPA and approval of Department Chair. Writing enhanced. Credit 3.

BIO 495 Special Topics in Biology. This course is designed to allow independent study by selected advanced students in specific areas of biology not covered by organized undergraduate courses. Instruction is on individual basis with the student being supervised in his studies by an appropriate faculty member. Prerequisite: Biology major, minimum Junior standing. This course may be taken for Academic Distinction credit. See Academic Distinction Program in this Catalog. Credit 1, 2, or 3.