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BIO 103–BIO 104 – General Biology 2 semesters, 4 credits each
This course is designed as a rigorous, in-depth, introductory course intended for science majors. It is taught as a departmental course, i.e., four or more members of the staff rotate in presenting the lectures and laboratory. The sequence of material follows the levels of organization format, beginning with the cellular and organismic levels and terminating with the population, community level. Cell structure, function, and energetics are considered from the molecular and physico-chemical viewpoint. The characteristics of the gene and reproduction are introduced early thereby allowing the principle of evolution to pervade the remaining subject matter. Cell differentiation, morphogenesis, and growth are studied, followed by an analysis of form and function at the tissue and system level. The principles of reproduction genetics and variation at the organism level are discussed, followed by a survey of the results of evolution, including an introduction to the phylogeny of plants and animals and their ecological interrelationships. Laboratory work consists of manual and visual experience with selected areas of the topics listed above, and is designed to supplement or complement the lecture material. (Lecture + lab: 4 credits) Prerequisites: Non-science majors must obtain written permission from the chairperson of the Biology Department before they may register for the course. Normally, sophomore status is recommended for non-majors.
BIO103 Lecture Syllabus
BIO 121 – Environmental Biology 1 semester, 3 credits
Information is necessary in order to understand and act upon problems associated with overpopulation, resource depletion, air and water pollution, acid rain, ozone depletion, desertification, or nuclear wastes. This course aims to develop a perspective based on fundamental properties of mass and energy flow through ecosystems. Course material progresses from physical and chemical bases of ecosystem operation through examination of environmental problems. Problems and alternatives are considered primarily from an empirical viewpoint; however, ethical, social, and political perspectives play an important role. This course is intended for non–science majors only and fulfills three (3) credits of the natural science requirement.
BIO 122 – Human Biology 1 semester, 3 credits
This non-major introductory course is intended to present the basic principles and concepts of human biology in a manner designed to stimulate students’ curiosity and promote their understanding of the human body and man’s interaction with his environment. Subject matter will provide students with the knowledge and ability to make informed decisions in their lives. The course will consider cell theory, genetics, evolution, and human ecology, followed by a detailed analysis of the various organ systems of the human body and their diseases, disorders, and the aging process. Contemporary topics in biology and medicine will be emphasized.
BIO 124 – Ethnobotany: The Study of the Plants We Use 1 semester, 3 credits
This course will examine the intimate relationship between humans and plants. Students will explore the origin, history, and use of food plants, medicinal plants, and ornamental plants. These plants will be placed not only in a cultural context, but a biological context as well. A component of this course is occasional field trips. This course is intended for non–science majors and fulfills three (3) credits of the natural science requirement.
BIO 125 - Microbes and Man: 1 semester, 3 credits
This course considers the microbial world and its interaction with human life. Although the beneficial aspect of microbes is considered, the emphasis is one the role of microbes as causative agents of disease from a public health point of view. Topics include the biology of microbes, a survey of major microbial disease, antibiotic resistance, biological warfare and terrorism, and immunization.
BIO 126 – Evolution and Modern Biology 1 Semester. 3 credits
An explanation of evolution at the non–technical level, including DNA, proteins, cell metabolism, gene mutation, variation, natural selection, and speciation. Digressions in the first part of the course include topics such as viruses, cancer, genetic engineering, and topical issues of the moment. The second part of the course is a survey of the history of life on Earth, focusing ultimately on human ancestry, but as a series of adaptational speciation events through time, increasing diversity in some lineages (adaptive radiation) and diminishing diversity in others (finally leading to the topic of extinction).
BIO 127 – Genes and Gender 1 semester, 3 credits
This course explores the role of genes in the construction of gender stereotypes. A foundation in both classical and molecular genetics will be laid as the basis for consideration of the extent to which gender is determined by genes and environmental influences. This course is intended for non-science majors. It is open to science majors as a free elective only, with permission of the instructor. Same as WMS127.
BIO 200 – Introduction to Cell and Molecular Genetics 1 semester, 3 credits
This course provides an introduction to cell biology and molecular genetics and is intended for sophomore Biology majors. The course focuses on four major areas: fine structure of cells, intra– and intercellular communication, energetics, and the molecular organization and transfer of genetic information. Experimental design, methodology, and current biotechnological applications will be considered. Prerequisites: BIO 103–104, CHM 201
BIO 201 – Comparative Anatomy 1 semester, 4 credits
A lecture, laboratory, and demonstration course emphasizing the evolution of vertebrate systems. The general organization, body plan, and adult anatomy of vertebrate systems are considered. The shark, cat, and others are used for the anatomy laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 103–104
BIO 205 – Human Anatomy 1 semester, 4 credits
This course presents the basic principles and concepts of human anatomy. It is designed to serve students pursuing careers in allied health, physical education, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other health–oriented fields. Students planning to apply to medical or dental school should take Comparative Anatomy (BIO 201). Each of the major organ systems of the human body will be discussed in an integrated and detailed manner. A functional approach will be utilized, emphasizing whenever possible how the structure, composition, and shape of anatomical structures allows them to perform their functions. Laboratory exercises include the dissection of the cat and the extensive use of human anatomical models. In addition, several multimedia products such as videotapes, an anatomy videodisk, and A.D.A.M. software will be used to facilitate and enhance student learning and comprehension. Prerequisites: BIO 103–104 or BIO 111–112.
BIO 209 – Introductory Botany 1semester, 4 credits
A survey of the structure, function, and evolutionary relationships of the major plant divisions. Three lectures and one laboratory (for which field trips may be substituted). By permission of instructor.
BIO 210 – Field Botany 1 semester, 4 credits
A course involving the collection, identification, and ecological relationships of plants as observed in nature. One lecture and one six hour field trip/week. By permission of instructor.
BIO 215 – Histology and Cytology 1 semester, 4 credits
This course is designed to teach biology students about the cell and the kinds of tissues they compose in higher organisms. Many aspects of cell biology will be addressed (molecular, genetic, developmental) but the course primarily will be a study of the microscopical and ultramicroscopical anatomy of the cell in general and its organelles, and an examination of cell specializations in a survey of particular tissues and organs of animals. Through the laboratory exercises, students will develop advanced skills with the light microscope as a tool in the examination of cells and tissues. Prerequisite: Biology 103–104
BIO 220 – An Introduction to Tropical Biology 1 semester, 4 credits
This course is designed to familiarize students with tropical marine and terrestrial biology. Coral reef, seashore, mangrove swamp, and rain forest ecology will be emphasized, with some discussion of other tropical ecosystems as well. A nine–day trip to a tropical destination provides extensive field experience and the opportunity to study tropical organisms in their natural ecosystems. The trip is a required part of the course and students are charged lab fees, room and board, and air fare in addition to their tuition for the course. Previous sites include Jamaica, Belize, and Costa Rica. Prerequisite: At least one semester of biology (including e.g., Biology 101, 111, 103 and other one–semester biology courses) and permission of the instructor.
BIO 225 – Symbiosis 1 semester, 3 credits
BIO 230 – Invertebrate Zoology 1 semester, 4 credits
A study of the structure, function, and ecology of the invertebrate phyla. This course will emphasize the functional morphology and behavior of invertebrates. Evolutionary relationships between groups will be explored as a way to unify this diverse group. Laboratories will include examination of representative invertebrates as well as field trips to terrestrial, marine, and freshwater environments. The laboratory will include an independent research section in which photographic and video techniques may be used to study the morphology and behavior of specific invertebrate species. Prerequisite: Biology 103–104
BIO 240 – Marine Biology 1 semester, 4 credits
An investigation of marine communities and the important physical and chemical variables influencing marine organisms. Lecture topics will include: effects of the aquatic environment in terms of body form, life history, and ecology; the relationship between physical and biological structure; nutrient cycling; and oceanic productivity. The course will combine field and laboratory study at the ecosystem and individual organism level. Prerequisite: Biology 103–104 or 111–112 or permission of instructor.
BIO 308 – Genetics 1 semester, 4 credits
This course presents the basic principles and concepts of classical and molecular genetics in an integrated fashion while emphasizing experimental design, analysis, and problem solving. The latest research and technological advances in biotechnology and human genetics will be covered, as well as the implications of this knowledge on the human condition. Laboratory work consists of a variety of investigative exercises designed to complement or supplement lecture material and involves several challenging experiments and projects which involve the rapidly advancing methodologies of genetic engineering. Prerequisite: BIO 200.
BIO 310 – Evolution 1 semester, 3 credits
This course is designed as an introduction to the most important principles and concepts of evolutionary theories. Ever since Darwin, the theory of evolution has been the main unifying idea in biology. It is natural selection that has made biological systems different from physical or chemical ones. The theory of evolution is, by far, the most important theory in biology. Topics include the rise of evolutionary biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, the evidence for evolution, natural selection, molecular evolution, the analysis of adaptation, macroevolutionary change, formation of new species, the fossil record, biogeography, and principles of classification. This course is intended for biology majors and minors or permission of the instructor. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.
BIO 320 – Developmental Biology 1 semester, 4 credits
The course is designed to familiarize students with the principles and scope of development in biological systems. In lectures and laboratories, the process of the gradual emergence of mature from less mature stages in the living organism is considered at various levels: molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and organismal. The emphasis will be on both the description of developmental stages and processes and the experimental bases involved in their analyses. Recommended for juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: BIO 200 or permission of the instructor.
BIO 330 – Comparative Biomechanics 1 semester, 4 credits
Biomechanics is the study of the physical design of biological organisms. This course is termed comparative because it examines the diversity of form in members of all kingdoms of life in the context of function in the physical world. Physics and materials analysis concepts relevant to biomechanics will be explored. Several specific areas will be examined in detail, such as locomotion at low Reynolds number, the mechanics of flight, biomechanical design of trees, lift-based versus drag-based swimming and the arthropod exoskeleton.
This is proposed as a lecture and laboratory course. The laboratory is an empirically based approach to biomechanics problems that relies heavily upon digital imaging and quantification (morphometric, kinematic measurements). There are both field (plant scaling studies) and laboratory (kinematic exercises and computing) components in the laboratory section of the course.
BIO 350 – Animal Behavior 1 semester, 4 credits
Animal behavior investigates the mechanisms, ecology, and evolution of actions by animals as well as historical and current perspectives on the study of animal behavior. Emphasis is placed on discussing proximate and ultimate questions about behavior. Major topics on behavior include: evolution, mechanisms (genetics, hormonal nervous control); development and learning; social aspects (communication, mating systems); and environmental interactions (movement, feeding, habitat selection). The laboratory provides instruction on methods for conducting behavioral research, plus field trips. The majority of labs will be spent conducting independent research using multiple hypothesis testing to investigate animal behavior.
BIO 395–BIO 396 – Research 2 semesters, 1 to 3 credits each
Investigation of special problems in biology. The widest freedom of choice of a problem compatible with the personnel and physical facilities of the department will be allowed the student. With the permission of the department chairperson, 495 and/or 496 may be elected by highly qualified junior and senior biology majors on a pass/fail basis only.
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BIO 401 – Ecology 1 semester, 4 credits
An introductory course designed to familiarize students with the principles and scope of ecology. The ecosystem approach is emphasized. Some consideration is given to environmental pollution and conservation of natural resources. Field trips are designed to acquaint students with the various habitats present in Rhode Island and the neighboring states. Prerequisites: Biology 103–104 and permission of the instructor.
BIO 403 – Plant Physiology 1 semester, 4 credits
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the functional aspects of higher plants: photosynthesis, carbon metabolism, nutrition, water balance, growth, differentiation, and developmental control mechanisms including the physiological aspects of the interaction of whole plants with their environment. Emphasis is placed, where appropriate, on practical applications of basic research, e.g., in agriculture, plant breeding, biological engineering, pest control, and food technology. The laboratory is designed to acquaint students with experimental procedures currently being used in research labs to study the topics mentioned above. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.
BIO 405 – Physiology 1 semester, 4 credits
This course considers the basic principles and mechanisms of animal physiology. Emphasis is placed upon nervous systems, excitable membranes, nerve signals, sensory mechanisms, neural integration, endocrine systems, intracellular signaling mechanisms, and muscle contractility. Homeostatic mechanisms and the systems responsible for supply of the internal environment are also considered. The laboratory consists of experimental procedures applied to the topics mentioned above and also to selected areas of intermediary metabolism and subcellular particles. Prerequisite: BIO 200 or permission of instructor.
BIO 407 – Microbiology 1 semester, 4 credits
A lecture-laboratory course covering the biology of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria, and, to a lesser degree, on viruses. Recognizing that these microbes are important research tools in many areas of cellular biology, as well as in microbiology per se, this course surveys the field at the expense of covering specific areas in depth. Lectures and laboratory exercises will be devoted to a survey of the microbial world, bacterial metabolism and growth, viruses, bacterial genetics, and host-parasite relationships as applied to man. Prerequisite: BIO 103-104, BIO 200.
BIO 410 – Electron Microscopy 1 semester, 4 credits
Students are required to become proficient in the basic preparation techniques of biological materials for transmission and scanning electron microscopy, in the theory and operation of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the transmission electron microscope (TEM), and in the documentation of data derived from these instruments. Permission of instructor is required.
BIO 411 – Biochemical Instrumentation and Techniques 1 semester, 3 credits
Laboratory experience in the isolation and analysis of compounds of biological importance. Methods used will include chromatography, ultra centrifugation, spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, and isoelectric focusing. Prerequisite: Chemistry 309 or equivalent.
BIO 413 – Cell Signaling 1 semester, 3 credits
All biological systems are subject to regulation and many recent advances have delineated the molecular mechanisms underlying this regulation. This course, which will explore the biochemical processes of the cell and organisms, is designed to provide coverage across a broad spectrum of disciplines including genetics, developmental biology, neurobiology, immunology, physiology, and cell biology. Class discussion will focus on readings from recent scientific literature and experimental design / methods. Prerequisites: BIO 200, CHM 201-202. CHM 309 is also highly recommended.
BIO 416 – Immunology 1 semester, 4 credits
The application of basic immunological principles to several biomedical fields including genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, medicine, and surgery, has made immunology a rapidly advancing scientific discipline. This lecture course considers fundamental principles of immunology and their application. Topics include the significance of the immune system as a mammalian defense mechanism, the nature of antigens and antibodies, humoral and cell–mediated immunity, and AIDS. Prerequisite: Microbiology or advanced biology courses or permission of the instructor.
BIO 418 – Biotechnology l semester, 4 credits
This integrated lecture/laboratory course is designed to introduce the subject of biotechnology and current laboratory techniques, as applied to recombinant DNA technology, microbiology, and immunology including electrophoresis, DNA fingerprinting, Southern Blot, restriction enzyme mapping, and transformation. Additionally, tissue culture methodology will be included. Prerequisites: Genetics; Microbiology and/or Immunology, or permission of the instructor.
BIO 420 – Public Health Methodology and Administration 1 semester, 3 credits
This course is offered in conjunction with the Rhode Island State Department of Health, Division of Laboratories. Students spend a 3–4 hour block of time each week, on an assigned basis, rotating through the laboratories of the Health Department and acquire experience with the functions and techniques of public health laboratories. Students are expected to keep a record of their activities and to write a term paper on a subject of public health significance. Recommended for juniors and seniors. Pass/fail only. Permission of department chairperson required.
BIO 450 – Internship 3 credits, Pass/Fail
This three–credit elective offers biology majors the opportunity to independently explore practical applications of biological principles in the work place. Students must prepare a proposal, select and obtain approval from a site supervisor and approval from the department chair prior to registration for the internship course. An Internship Learning Agreement that specifies the practical and academic requirements must be reached by the aforementioned before the start of internship semester. Minimally, students are expected to spend 8–12 credits per week at the internship site, maintain a journal that documents internship activities, and complete a paper that integrates their academic and experiential learning. Students are encouraged, but not obliged, to give a presentation at the completion of the internship. More than one internship is acceptable - but not more than one per semester. Compensation for the internship is allowed however, this must be agreed upon prior to the start of the internship. Pass/fail basis only.
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BIO 475 – Advanced Topics Seminar 1 semester, 3 credits
This seminar critically examines an advanced topic of contemporary interest to biology students and faculty. Content is variable. The course is offered after consideration by the department faculty and at the discretion of the chair. Junior and senior biology majors will be given preference. Prerequisites at the discretion of the instructor. Previous topics include comparative biomechanics, symbiosis, and public health issues.
BIO 495–BIO 496 – Research 2 semesters, 3 credits each
Continuation of 395 and 396, culminating in a documented report of progress. With the permission of the department chairperson, 495 and/or 496 may be elected by highly qualified senior biology majors on a pass/fail basis only.
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