Biology Courses (BIO)

BIO 1100 - Principles of Biology (3)

Biological principles including the evolution of life, cell structure and function, human biology, cell reproduction, heredity, and ecology. Credit for this non-majors course cannot be applied toward any curriculum in biology. Co-requisite: BIO L100.

BIO L100 - Principles of Biology Lab (1-2)

Labs include coverage of scientific methods, measurements, microscopy, cell structure, human biology, cell reproduction, heredity, and ecology. Credit for this non-majors course cannot be applied toward any curriculum in biology. Co-requisite: BIO 1100.

BIO 1101 - Organismal Biology (3)

Biological concepts and life processes of protists, fungi, plants, and animals. Prerequisites: BIO 1100/L100. Co-requisite: BIO L101.

BIO L101 - Organismal Biology Lab (1-2)

Survey of organisms from selected phyla, including anatomy, phylogeny, and life histories. Prerequisites: BIO 1100/L100. Co-requisite: BIO 1101.

BIO 1120 - Survey of Environmental Sciences (3)

This course is an overview of the Earth's abiotic and biotic systems with an emphasis on how human activity influences these systems. Included in this course will be lectures on ecology, environmental health, natural resources, energy, pollution, and environmental monitoring. If a student drops the lab (BIO L120), then the student MUST also drop the lecture (BIO 1120). Co-requisite: BIO L120.

BIO L120 - Survey of Environmental Sciences Lab (1)

This course includes Lab/Field-oriented experiences designed to enhance understanding of environmental concepts and issues. If a student drops the lecture (BIO 1120), then the student MUST also drop the lab (BIO L120). Co-requisite: BIO 1120.

BIO 2205 - Career Opportunities in Medicine and Allied Health Professions (1)

An introduction to medicine and allied health professions, including academic requirements, job opportunities, and future trends. Professionals from different fields will discuss their specialties to provide students with realistic perspectives.

BIO 2220 - Principles of Cell Biology (3)

Introduction to cell structure and function with emphasis on organelle structure, metabolism, cell cycle, genetics, and gene function. Prerequisites: BIO 1100/L100, CHM 1142/L142. Credit will not be given toward major/program if taken at same time or after BIO 3320 and BIO 4482.

BIO L220 - Principles of Cell Biology Lab (1)

Laboratory studies of cell biology with an emphasis on cell structure, function, experimental techniques, and data collection and analyses. Prerequisite: BIO 1100/L100. Credit will not be given toward major/program if taken at same time or after BIO L320 and BIO L482.

BIO 2229 - General Ecology (3)

The relationships of living organisms to one another and to the nonliving environment. Basic ecological concepts with the emphasis on bioenergetics, limiting factors, adaptation to a changing environment, the niche, ecological pyramids, and succession. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101. Co-requisite: BIO L229.

BIO L229 - General Ecology Lab (1-3)

Introduction to the terminology, procedures and equipment for sampling biotic and abiotic components of ecosystems, the functional and dynamic features of ecosystems, and biotic interactions. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101. Co-requisite: BIO 2229.

BIO 2272 - Non-Majors Microbiology (3)

To introduce students to basic concepts of microbiology; including anatomy and growth of bacteria, microbial metabolism, diseases caused by them, and interrelationships of micro-organisms with the environment/host. The emphasis of the course will be on medical microbiology, disease control and public health. Corequisites: BIO L372

BIO 3307 - Invertebrate Zoology (3)

Major and minor phyla of invertebrates with emphasis on anatomy, classification, life histories, and phylogeny. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101. Co-requisite: BIO L307.

BIO L307 - Invertebrate Zoology Lab (1-3)

Anatomy, classification, and life histories of invertebrates. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101. Co-requisite: BIO 3307.

BIO 3315 - Introduction to Biostatistics (3)

An important part of the scientific process consists in extracting information from the world by gathering and analyzing data. This course is an introduction to experimental design, data handling skills, and statistics, the three cornerstones of what could be called the “data science triangle.” In addition to the introduction of fundamental concepts such as probability, P-value and confidence interval, a selection of commonly used parametric and non-parametric statistical tests is presented. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/ BIO L101, and MTH 1112 or higher

BIO 3320 - Genetics (3)

Principles of heredity, from basic Mendelian concepts through molecular genetics. Prerequisites: BIO 2220/L220 and CHM 1143/L143.

BIO L320 - Genetics Lab (1)

Basic laboratory techniques in genetics, including the genetics of common laboratory organisms. Prerequisites: BIO 2220/L220 and CHM 1143/L143.

BIO 3325 - Plant Form and Function (3)

The development, structure, and function of plant tissues and organs. Primary emphasis on anatomical, morphological, and physiological features of angiosperms. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101. Co-requisite: BIO L325.

BIO L325 - Plant Form and Function Lab (1-3)

The development, structure, and function of plant tissues and organs, with the primary emphasis on structures. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101. Co-requisite: BIO 3325.

BIO 3328 - Environmental Pollution and Control (3)

Sources, effects, and methods of control for air, water, land, and noise pollution. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229, CHM 1143/L143. Co-requisite: BIO L328.

BIO L328 - Environmental Pollution and Control Lab (1-3)

Field and laboratory techniques for air, water, land, and noise pollution. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229, CHM 1143/L143. Co-requisite: BIO 3328.

BIO 3335 - Biogeography (4)

Discussion of historical, ecological, and anthropic factors affecting the worldwide distribution and abundance of biological species, communities and ecosystems. Combination of lectures by instructor, presentation by students and discussion of articles from the primary literature, ecological modelling, and field trips on the biogeography of plants and birds of Alabama. Prerequisites: BIO 1100 and BIO L100 or permission of the instructor

BIO 3340 - Evolution (3)

Evolution is the fundamental unifying theory in biology. The course will introduce the major principles of evolutionary biology such as evolutionary genetics, adaption and natural selection, biological diversity, paleobiology and macroevolution. Prerequisites: Junior standing or permission of instructor.

BIO L342 - Biotechniques (2)

Laboratory studies of cell biology, genetics and molecular biology with an emphasis on instrumentation and lab techniques. Labs will include the investigation of cell anatomy/function, genetics and molecular biology Prerequisites: BIO 22200

BIO 3347 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I (3)

Anatomical terminology, a survey of cell types and tissues, and detailed coverage of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems of humans. Prerequisites: BIO 1100/L100, BIO 2220/ L220, CHM 1142/L142. Co-requisite: BIO L347.

BIO L347 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I Lab (1-3)

BIO 3348 - Human Anatomy and Physiology II (3)

The endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems of humans. Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in BIO 3347/L347. Co-requisite: BIO L348.

BIO L348 - Human Anatomy and Physiology II Lab (1-3)

The endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems of humans. Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in BIO 3347/L347. Co-requisite: BIO 3348.

BIO 3372 - Microbiology (3)

Fundamentals of microbiology including historical perspectives, anatomy and growth of bacteria, microbial metabolism, diseases caused by them, and interrelationships of microorganisms with the environment. Prerequisites: BIO 1100/L100, BIO 2220/L220 and CHM 1142/L142 . Co-requisite: BIO L372.

BIO L372 - Microbiology Lab (1-3)

Fundamentals of microscopy, sterile techniques, staining procedures, isolation techniques, identification of unknowns, and biochemical tests. Prerequisites: BIO 1100/L100, BIO 2220/L220, CHM 1142/L142. Co-requisite: BIO 3372.

BIO 3382 - Immunology (3)

The cellular and humoral system involved in the host response and immunity of organisms to foreign substances. Mechanisms of humoral immunity, cellular immunity, and hypersensitivities. Prerequisites: BIO 3372/L372, CHM 3342/342. Co-requisite: BIO L382.

BIO L382 - Immunology Lab (1-3)

Analysis of immunological techniques used in research and clinical settings. Prerequisites: BIO 3372/L372, CHM 3342/L342. Co-requisite: BIO 3382.

BIO 3386 - Hematology (3)

The study of blood cells and blood-forming organs under normal and diseased states. Prerequisites: BIO 3320/L320, 3372/L372, CHM 3342/L342. Co-requisite: BIO L386.

BIO L386 - Hematology Lab (1-3)

Cytological and instrumental analyses of blood cells and blood forming organs. Hematological analysis of normal and diseased states. Introduction to blood-banking procedures. Prerequisites: BIO 3320/L320, 3372/L372, CHM 3342/L342. Co-requisite: BIO 3386.

BIO 4405 - Entomology (4)

Orders of insects with the emphasis on morphology, taxonomy, and life cycles. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101.

BIO 4406 - Dendrology (4)

Dendrology is a field and laboratory investigation of ecologically and commercially important species of tress, shrubs, and woody vines in the United States with a particular focus on native and naturalized taxa in the Southeast. The roles of the arborescent species in shaping the natural communities and ecoregions of Alabama will be emphasized. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229 or permission of instructor.

BIO 4407 - Advanced Cell Biology (3)

Cell structure and function with the emphasis on biochemical and molecular mechanisms. Topics include cell division, movement, differentiation, and recognition. Prerequisites: BIO 3320/L320, BIO 3372/L372, CHM 3343/L343 Co-requisite: BIO L407

BIO L407 - Advanced Cell Biology Lab (1)

Experimental approaches for studying cells at the biochemical and molecular levels. Co-requisite: BIO 4407

BIO 4413 - Limnology (3)

The physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects of freshwater ecosystems as influenced by activities in surrounding watersheds. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229, CHM 1143/L143. Co-requisite: BIO L413.

BIO L413 - Limnology Lab (1-3)

Field and laboratory exercises in lake and stream science, including instrumentation, measurement, sampling, and analysis. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229, CHM 1143/L143. Co-requisite: BIO 4413.

BIO 4414 - Food Microbiology (3)

This course focuses on topics in microbial metabolism, food spoilage, food preservation techniques, and foodborne pathogens and their control. Some molecular techniques will be introduced. Prerequisite: BIO 3372/L372. Co-requisite: BIO L414.

BIO L414 - Food Microbiology Lab (1)

This lab focuses on advanced microbiological laboratory techniques including enumeration and analysis of bacteria in food, water, and dairy products. Prerequisites: BIO 3372/L372. Co-requisite: BIO 4414.

BIO 4416 - Microbial Ecology (3)

A study of the diversity and ecology of microbial populations in ecosystems, with the emphasis on the roles they play in biogeochemical cycles, their contributions to metabolic diversity, their interactions with animals and plants, their niches and bioremediation. Prerequisites: BIO 3372/L372, CHM 3342/L342. Co-requisite: BIO L416.

BIO L416 - Microbial Ecology Lab (1-3)

BIO 4418 - Food Laws and Regulations (3)

Introduction to federal, state and local laws pertaining to food safety and sanitation, proper food preservation and labeling, environmental and occupational regulations, Federal Trade Commission regulations, Kosher and Halal food laws, and topics in biotechnology. Prerequisite: BIO 3372/L372. Co-requisite: BIO 4414/L414.

BIO 4420 - Field Vertebrate Zoology (4-7)

The basics of vertebrate identification, with emphasis on phylogeny, anatomy, morphology, life histories, habitats, distributions, and conservation. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101, CHM 1143/L143.

BIO 4421 - Population Ecology (3)

Animal and plant populations, food supply, competition, disease, fecundity, distribution, and other environmental factors. Management of endangered species and protected ecosystems are included. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229, CHM 1143/L143, STAT 2210. Co-requisite: BIO L421.

BIO L421 - Population Ecology Lab (1-3)

Field exercises in identifying ecological problems, formulating and testing hypotheses, and evaluating data using standard statistical methods. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229, CHM 1143/L143, STAT 2210. Co-requisite: BIO 4421.

BIO 4422 - Introduction to Conservation Biology (3)

Introduction to the principles, practices, and philosophy of measuring, maintain, and enhancing biological diversity. Topics covered will include patters of biodiversity and extinction, causes of extinction and population declines, techniques used to restore populations, landscape level conservation planning, and the role of conservation in protecting ecosystem services. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229, BIO 3320/L320 or equivalent undergraduate courses.

BIO 4423 - Neurobiology (4)

This undergraduate course is a comprehensive study of the biology of the human nervous system. This course introduces the anatomy and physiology of the central and peripheral divisions of the nervous system. Topics include: neuronal function, synaptic transmission, sensory processing, movement, and clinical disorders of the nervous system. Prerequisites: BIO 3348/L348, BIO 3372/L372

BIO 4425 - Field Botany (4-7)

Survey of vascular plants from different habitats in southeast Alabama. Principles of plant taxonomy, including history and systems of classification and nomenclature, the use of dichotomous keys, and general herbarium techniques. Emphasis is placed on plant identification and habitat types. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229.

BIO 4431 - Human Genomics and Bioinformatics (3)

The course will introduce the students to the field of genomics, how genome sequence data is obtained and analyzed, what can be learned from an individual's genome, how mining the genome can uncover the basis of disease susceptibility and treatment of many human diseases. The course will introduce students to a variety of NCBI-and web-based computational tools for solving common problems in biological research and address cutting-edge research in epigenetics, pharmacogenomics, genetic testing, genome editing, and microbiome. Prerequisites: BIO 3320.

BIO 4437 - Epidemiology (3)

The course is aimed to provide knowledge about the main concepts of epidemiology, ethics in epidemiological research, the epidemiological definitions of association and frequency, the measurements of disease frequency, mortality data, and health impacts, descriptive and analytical studies, surveillance and prevention, outbreak investigations, the aspects of air and water pollution, the risk assessment and precautionary principle the basics of radiation biology and the growing importance of ecological studies and environmental epidemiology in public health. Prerequisite: BIO 3372/L372

BIO 4438 - Advanced Biostatistics (3)

This course aims at introducing a range of powerful statistical methods applicable to many research problems in Biology and indispensable to the toolbox of researchers, including generalized linear models, linear mixed-effect models, and model selection. In addition, the course will develop the student's ability to manipulate, analyze, and visualize real-world complex data sets using the statistical software R. Prerequisites: Bio 3315 or a demonstrable solid knowledge of basic statistics and at least some basic knowledge of the statistical software R.

BIO 4440 - Plants of Social Significance (3)

Plants which affected or altered history with emphasis on those which are the source for food, medical, and cultural drugs, beverage production, and poisonous plants.

BIO 4447 - Ornithology (4)

Ecology, evolution, and conservation of birds. Topics include origin and diversification of birds, seasonal migrations, bird communities, and the consequences of global change for bird diversity. Labs are integrated and include field trips for the observation and identification of birds. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101, 2229/L229, or permission of the instructor.

BIO L447 - Ornithology Lab (1-3)

Diversity, classification, and field identification of birds (birdwatching). Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101, 2229/L229. Co-requisite: BIO 4447.

BIO 4449 - Biotechnology (3)

Advanced studies in genetics with emphasis on cytogenetics, microbial genetics, and molecular genetics. Prerequisites: BIO 3320/L320, BIO 3372/L372, CHM 3343/L343 Corequisite: BIO L449

BIO L449 - Biotechnology Lab (1)

Methods and procedures used in the study cytogenetics, microbial genetics, and molecular genetics. Prerequisites: BIO 3320/L320, BIO 3372/L372, CHM 3343/L343 Corequisite: BIO 4449

BIO 4451 - Toxicology (3)

Principles related to the adverse effects of chemicals on living organisms. Prerequisites: CHM 3342/L342, and BIO 3348/L348.

BIO L451 - Toxicology Lab (1-3)

Assessment of the toxicity of chemical agents following standard protocols. Prerequisites: CHM 3342/L342 and BIO 3348/L348.

BIO 4453 - Biogeography (3)

This course provides a general review of the historical, ecological, and anthropic factors (such as plate tectonics, glacial-interglacial cycles, soil, climate, topography, biotic interactions, and climate change) affecting the geographic distribution and abundance of animals and plants, with an emphasis on mammals, birds, and their habitats. The course includes lectures by the instructor and discussion of articles from the primary literature. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229 or permission of the instructor. Co-requisite: BIO 4454.

BIO 4454 - Biogeography Field Study (1)

Biography Field Study is an introduction to the distribution of flora and fauna across the ecoregions of Alabama, the fifth most biodiverse state in America, gained through immersion in selected natural areas. Discussions and student presentations focus on natural community and species assemblages with an emphasis on adaptions of flora and fauna to different environments. Prerequisites: BIO 2229/L229 or permission of the instructor. Co-requisite: BIO 4453.

BIO 4455 - Clinical Pathophysiology (3)

An objective-oriented, problem-solving introduction to general disease processes including mechanisms of health and disease, disorders of organ systems, and developmental disorders. Prerequisites: CHM 3352/L352, BIO 3348/L348, BIO 3372/L372. Co-requisite: BIO L455.

BIO L455 - Clinical Pathophysiology Lab (1)

This course addresses normal and abnormal macroscopic and microscopic structures, provides students with the opportunity for detailed study of various aspects of pathology, understanding of basic specimen collection, labeling, handling protocols practical, and theoretical basis for laboratory test selection and interpretation. Prerequisites: CHM 3352/L352, BIO 3348/L348, BIO 3372/L372. Co-requisite: BIO 4455.

BIO 4456 - Virology (3)

This course is aimed to provide knowledge about viruses and their both harmful and potentially beneficial properties for human health, as well as viral diseases of veterinary and agricultural importance. Students will study classification and nomenclature of viruses, their structure, virus structure, virus-cell interaction, virus replication cycles; attachment and entry of viruses into cells, assembly and exit of virions from cells. Students will learn about viruses that are associated with enteric and respiratory diseases, nerve system disease, sexually transmitted diseases, cancers and blood malignancies, zoonoses and emerging human viral infections as well as viral diseases of veterinary and agricultural importance. Prerequisite: BIO 4482/L482 or taking simultaneously in the semester.

BIO 4460 - Critical Issues in Environmental Management (3)

An examination of the scientific social economic and political factors that contribute to environment controversies, along with approaches for resolving disputes. Prerequisites: BIO 2229 and BIO L229

BIO 4465 - Occupational Safety and Health (3)

A study of practical information occupational safety and health technology, management, and regulatory compliance issues and covering crucial topics like an introduction to industrial hygiene; organizing, directing, and evaluating occupational safety programs; and safety-related laws, regulations, and recordkeeping. Prerequisites: BIO 1100 and SCI 2233.

BIO 4471 - Parasitology (3)

Taxonomy, structure, life histories, distribution, pathogenesis, and control of parasitic protozoa, helminths, and arthropods, with the emphasis on those of medical importance. Prerequisites: Any 3000-level biology lecture and lab. Co-requisite: BIO L471.

BIO L471 - Parasitology Lab (1-3)

Laboratory study of parasitic protozoa, helminths, and arthropods, with the emphasis on those of medical importance. Prerequisites: Any 3000 level biology lecture and lab. Co-requisite: BIO 4471.

BIO 4474 - Internship in Biology Education (9)

The Professional Internship Program is the culminating clinical field-based experience for students seeking certification in a teaching field. The Professional Internship Program provides the student with the opportunity to conduct classes and assume the role of a teacher while receiving supervision from a classroom teacher and a university supervisor for a period of one full semester. The student will demonstrate skills of the informed, reflective decision maker throughout the internship experience. Prerequisite: admission to TEP. Co-requisite: SED 4454 Internship Seminar for Secondary Education.

BIO 4476 - Special Topics in Biology (1 to 4 credit hours per course per semester)

Specialized topics not generally included in course offerings. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.

BIO 4479 - Environmental Assessment (3)

An examination of theory and practices required in performing stream environmental assessment as currently practiced by state and federal agencies in their attempt to preserve biological integrity. Sustainable management of natural resources and a systems approach to environmental problem solving will be emphasized. Topics covered include water quality, habitat assessment, indicator species used in ecological inventory with a concentration on macro invertebrate and fish assemblages, and the index of biological integrity. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/l101 and BIO 2229/L229. Co-requisite: BIO L479.

BIO L479 - Environmental Assessment Lab (1-3)

Laboratory instruction and hands-on field training regarding stream environmental assessment as currently practiced by state agencies in their attempt to preserve biological integrity. Topics covered include measurement of water quality, habitat, and practice sampling techniques, with a concentration on fish and macro invertebrate assemblages. In addition, students will learn the use of the index of biological integrity using their own collections of fish assemblages. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101 and BIO 2229/L229. Co-requisite: BIO 4479.

BIO 4480 - Histology (3)

Microscopic anatomy and function of cell types and tissues of mammalian organs. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101, BIO 3347/L347, BIO 3348/L348. Co-requisite: BIO L480.

BIO L480 - Histology Lab (1-3)

Microscopic anatomy of cell types and tissues of mammalian organs. Prerequisites: BIO 1101/L101, BIO 3347/L347, BIO 3348/L348. Co-requisite: BIO 4480.

BIO 4481 - Methods and Materials for the Secondary Teacher (3)

A survey of teaching methods and materials appropriate for teaching in the content areas for grades 6-12. Topics addressed will include teacher evaluation in the public schools, collaboration with special education teachers, and lesson planning formats. In addition, teaching methods, selections organization and use of biology/science materials for grades 6-12 will be covered in detail. A professional laboratory experience is included in this course. Prerequisite: admission to TEP.

BIO 4482 - Molecular Biology (3)

Fundamental principles of chromosomal organization and gene expression, with emphasis on the structure and function of nucleic acids and proteins. Prerequisites: BIO 3320, 3372/L372. Co-requisite: BIO L482.

BIO L482 - Molecular Biology Lab (1)

Experimental approaches in molecular analyses of nucleic acids and proteins, with the emphasis placed on common techniques utilized in clinical and research settings. Prerequisites: BIO 3320, 3372/L372. Co-requisite: BIO 4482.

BIO 4484 - Senior Seminar in Biological & Environmental Sciences (1)

The senior seminar course integrates knowledge, skills, and concepts acquired in departmental courses. The course is designed to help seniors to 1) prepare for the transition from college to career through a field-related project, and 2) complete a program assessment. Prerequisite: senior standing.

BIO 4485 - Principles and Methods for the Laboratory Assistant (1-2)

This course will provide each student with significant “hands on” experiences in laboratory preparation and laboratory safety. Students will work under the direct mentorship and supervision of the course instructor and will be trained in preparation techniques and organization of laboratory exercises in the biological sciences. (Students seeking one (1) semester hour credit will be required to assist in one laboratory course. Students seeking two (2) semester hours credit will be required to assist in two laboratory courses or laboratory courses with multiple sections.) Prerequisite: Good standing as a student in the department, advisor/departmental approval, interview.

BIO 4488 - Internship in Biological or Environmental 89/90 Science (1 to 3 credit hours per course per semester)

Supervised work experience in the biotechnology industry, medical field, a governmental agency, business or industry, public service organization, food production or food service industry, or other working environment in which a student will learn and apply pertinent professional skills. Prerequisites: Approval of the student's academic adviser and department chair. Internship may only be taken for a maximum of six (6) semester hours.

BIO 4491-92 - Guided Independent Research (1 to 3 ) credit hours per course per semester)

Additional information is indexed under Independent Study and Research.

BIO 4493-94 - Guided Independent Study (1 to 3 credit hours per course per semester)

Additional information is indexed under Independent Study and Research.