Biology (BIOL)
BIOL 1055 - Introduction to Organisms - 4 credits
Fall and Spring Semesters
This is one semester of a two-semester full year core course in biology. This semester we begin by studying the importance of evolution as the basic organizing principle of biology. We then consider the biology of the whole organism, focusing on the most important animal phyla, and look at four animal organ systems. The major plant phyla are also covered, and we finish with a review of biological communities and ecosystems. Lecture and laboratory. Laboratory required for all students. Fee.
This course meets the General Education Science Breadth and Quantitative Literacy Enhancement requirements.
BIOL 1057 - Life Science for Educators - 4 credits
Fall and Spring Semesters
This course introduces the fundamental concepts of biological science as designed in the Massachusetts Subject Matter Knowledge Standards. Topics include: scientific inquiry, ecology, microbial, plant and animal physiology and evolution, biological chemistry, cell structure and function, biochemistry of energy transformation, Mendelian and molecular genetics. Laboratory and lecture.
This course meets the General Education Science Breadth and Quantitative Literacy Enhancement requirements.
BIOL 1065 - Introduction to Molecules and Cells - 4 credits
Fall and Spring Semesters
This is one half of a full-year course introducing the overarching themes of Biology. This semester, we will focus on the smallest unit of life – cells, and the molecules that comprise cell structure and function. We will begin with a discussion of chemistry, and build upon that knowledge to cover molecules of increasing complexity. We will cover the parts of the cell and their functions, and discuss how cells use energy. Finally, we will discuss how cells transmit information to the next generation through DNA, and how incremental changes in DNA over time contributes to the diversity of life and evolution of new species. These topics will be explored through the lens of past and present scientific discovery. Lecture and laboratory. Fee.
This course meets the General Education Science Breadth and Quantitative Literacy Enhancement requirements.
BIOL 1075 - Anatomy and Physiology I - 3 credits
Fall Semester
The first semester of a two-semester introductory course in human anatomy and physiology. Topics covered this semester include cell biology, histology, and the structure and function of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.
BIOL 1175 - Anatomy and Physiology I Laboratory - 1 credit
Fall Semester
Introduces students to the laboratory techniques involved in the practical examination of the topics presented in A&P I lectures. Techniques involve microscopy, dissection and experimentation. Fee.
BIOL 1085 - Anatomy and Physiology II - 3 credits
Spring Semester
The second semester of an introductory course in human anatomy and physiology. We will study several of the major organ systems of the human body, including the digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, reproductive, and endocrine systems.
BIOL 1185 - Anatomy and Physiology II Laboratory - 1 credit
Spring Semester
Introduces students to the laboratory techniques involved in the practical examination of the systems studied in A&P II lectures. Techniques involve dissection and experimentation. Fee.
BIOL 2010 - Microbiology - 4 credits
Fall Semester
Overview of the microbial world including microbial cell structure and function and the diversity of microorganisms. Introduction to the fundamental concepts of microbial metabolism, genetics, the role of microorganisms in disease, immunity, and other selected applied areas. The laboratory experience will provide students with experience in aseptic techniques along with the isolation of a broad range of nonpathogenic bacteria, using selective and enrichment techniques, with microscopic, biochemical, and molecular identification. Related exercises include genetics, physiology, quantitation, and growth energetics. Lecture and laboratory. Fee.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1065 or 1075/1175 and CHEM 1020/1120 or 1001/1002 or permission of instructor.
BIOL 2030 - Human Disease - 3 credits
Offered periodically within a three-year academic cycle
An introduction to human disease suitable for students interested in the health sciences. The course will be divided into two parts: in the first part general concepts will be covered, such as disease classification and diagnosis, as well as the structure and function of the immune system. In the second part, individual organ systems will be considered, including diseases of the cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, digestive, nervous, endocrine, and musculoskeletal systems.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1055 and 1065 or BIOL 1075/1175 and 1085/1185, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 2040 - Microbiology for Science Majors - 3 credits
Fall Semester
Semester This course introduces science majors to the basic properties of microorganisms, microbial metabolism and genetics, the principles of microbial pathogenicity, the mode of action of antibiotics, the fundamentals of immunology, and the response of the human host to infections. This course also addresses the importance of microorganisms in research, ecosystems, and their economic significance.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1065 and CHEM 1010/1110 or permission of instructor.
Corequisite: BIOL 2140.
BIOL 2050 - Animal Behavior - 3 credits
Spring Semester
The course covers the foundations of ethology, with an evolutionary perspective. Topics will include the neural and hormonal underpinnings of behavior, kinship theory, animal learning and communication, foraging, avoiding predators, attracting mates, and migratory behavior. Major theories and important empirical studies will be reviewed. The ultimate goal of the course is to excite student interest in the living world of animals.
Prerequisite: any BIOL or SCI course or permission of instructor.
BIOL 2060 - Introduction to Exercise Physiology - 3 credits
Alternate Fall Semesters
This introductory-level exercise physiology course provides a foundational understanding of the biochemical and mechanical interactions of the musculoskeletal, endocrine, neurovascular, cardiopulmonary, and digestive systems, with exercise. Additional topics of discussion include: epidemiology of health and disease, exercise prescription, nutrition, influence of exercise on brain function, and acute and chronic effects of exercise as they relate to the healthcare professional or athletic trainer.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1075/1175 and BIOL 1085/1185, or BIOL 1055 and 1065, plus CHEM 1001/1002 or CHEM 1010/1110, plus MATH 1150, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 2100 - Genetics - 4 credits
Spring Semester
Examines the principles of heredity through an historical development of the modern concept of the gene. Topics to be covered will include the works of Gregor Mendel and Thomas Hunt Morgan, cytogenetics, genetic engineering, and population genetics. Lecture and laboratory. Fee.
Prerequisite: BIOL 1055 and 1065, and CHEM 1020/1120 or permission of instructor.
BIOL 2140 - Microbiology Lab for Science Majors - 1 credit
Fall Semester
This laboratory course is designed to teach students the skills necessary to grow, isolate, observe, identify and study microorganisms. This includes practicing and applying aseptic technique, learning proper usage of a compound light microscope and stereomicrocope, learning how to identify or manipulate microorganisms for research purposes based on microscope imaging, culture, staining, and molecular techniques, and proper decontamination techniques. A major focus of this course will involve applying synthesizing data and information in both high and low stakes writing assignments. Emphasis will also be placed on finding and analyzing relevant peer-reviewed written sources.
This course meets the General Education Reading and Writing Enhancement requirement.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1065, CHEM 1010/1110, WRIT 1400, and WRIT 1500, or permission of instructor
Corequisite: BIOL 2040.
BIOL 2160 - Population Genetics - 3 credits
Alternate Fall Semesters
Population genetics examines the frequencies and distribution of alleles, genotypes and haplotypes of natural, artificial, and simulated populations in order to understand the forces that cause genetic change over time. Population genetics is a core discipline in human disease, genetics, evolutionary biology, conservation biology and in forensic science. This course provides the theoretical background and analytical tools needed to apply population genetics to understand how genetic variation is produced, maintained, and distributed within and among populations over time.
Prerequisite: Any General Education Science Breadth and Quantitative Literacy Enhanced course.
BIOL 2300 - Bioinformatics - 3 credits
Alternate Spring Semesters
Technical innovations in molecular biology have allowed for large-scale measurements of DNA, RNA and proteins, three of the fundamental molecules of the cell. This has led to an explosion of “big data” biological datasets which are often too large to be analyzed using manual analysis or standard computers. This course is an inquiry-based introduction to this interdisciplinary field of science which combines computer programming and mathematics to analyze and interpret biological data. Students will learn the fundamentals of programming for bioinformatics by analyzing real datasets. No prior experience or knowledge of computer programming or biology is required.
BIOL 2310 - Field Ecology - 4 credits
Alternate Fall Semesters
The course will consider the interrelationships of living things and their environment. Special attention will be given to the experimental demonstration of these interrelationships in various types of habitats. Specific topics to be covered will include old field succession, lake succession, species diversity, primary productivity, and tide pool ecology. Fee.
Prerequisite: Any BIOL or SCI course or permission of instructor.
BIOL 2330 - Aquatic Biology - 4 credits
Alternate Fall Semesters
Covers the biology, ecology, chemistry, and physics of water. Much of the instruction in the course will be done at nearby ocean, lakes, and streams and will involve experiments such as the determination of thermal stratification and the estimation of photosynthetic rates. Fee.
Prerequisite: Any BIOL or SCI course, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 2520 - Nutrition - 3 credits
Fall and Spring Semesters
Introduces students to the basics of human nutrition. Macro and micronutrients are studied regarding their role in human physiology and health. The relationship between the foods we eat and the nutrients derived from them are explored through the study of digestion and absorption. Nutrition during the various life stages and evidence-based research regarding the role of nutrients and disease prevention are also discussed. Students are able to apply concepts learned by assessing the adequacy of their own diets and by investigating a current nutrition topic. (Same course as HW 2520).
Prerequisite: Any BIOL, CHEM, or SCI course or permission of instructor.
BIOL 3030 - Cell Biology - 4 credits
Focuses on cells, the basic units of all organisms. Their structures and activities are examined with special emphasis on their subcellular components and interactions with their environments. In the laboratory, students employ some of the newest techniques used by researchers in the study of cells and their biology. Gaining familiarity with various experimental approaches, cell types, and types of instrumentation are the main goals. Lecture and laboratory. Fee.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1065, 2100, and CHEM 1020/ 1120, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 3050 - Immunology - 3 credits
Offered periodically within a three-year academic cycle
This course will provide an introduction to the mammalian immune system. We will begin with an overview of innate immunity and the underlying physical, chemical and cellular defenses mammalian hosts possess to defend themselves against foreign invaders. We will then discuss the adaptive branch of the immune system, emphasizing both humoral and cell- mediated immune responses. Finally, we will study cellular and biochemical mechanisms involved in the development, education, and regulation of immune responses. Throughout the semester, the impact of defects or overstimulation of immune system components on maintaining an effective response will be highlighted.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1055, 1065, 2040/2140, and 2100, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 3060 - Cancer Biology - 3 credits
Offered periodically within a three-year academic cycle
This course examines the molecular, cellular and genetic mechanisms that lead to cancer formation and explores the hallmarks of cancer in depth. In particular, the regulation of signal transduction pathways, cell cycle entry and progression, cellular metabolism and programmed cell death will be explored in detail. The course also includes extensive analysis of the primary literature.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 and BIOL 3030 or CHEM 3570, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 3075 - Advanced Physiology - 4 credits
Spring Semester
Uses the platform of the human body to explore how biological systems are built from the molecules up. This course builds upon foundational knowledge in Biology and Chemistry to explore the organization and function of cells, tissues, and organ systems. Maintenance of homeostasis is discussed in the context of both health and disease. The laboratory work explores basic physiological processes, with an emphasis on experimental design. Lecture and laboratory. Fee.
Prerequisites: BIOL 2100 and 3030 or permission of instructor.
BIOL 3120 - Evolution and Genomics - 3 credits
An exploration of the underlying process by which species arise and change through time. It traces the development of the concept of evolution via natural selection and then explores the subtleties of selection which serve to fine-tune organisms to the environment. In addition, the course addresses genomics, the study of the complete sets of DNA within organisms, and how they have changed and compare evolutionarily. Students will learn the application of genome analysis and bioinformatics in the study of evolution. In the laboratory, students learn the application of genome analyses and bioinformatics to the study of evolution.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1055, 1065, 2100, and CHEM 1020/1120, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 3500 - Junior Seminar - 1 credit
Spring Semester
This course design is to further foster the development of knowledge and skills used by professional scientists. The main goal is the production and delivery of professional quality written reports on current research. The knowledge discussed and accumulated in this course continues to enhance students’ awareness and understanding of scientific inquiry. Extensive analysis of primary scientific literature is central to this course and provides practical experience in developing the skills of written communication used by all scientists.
Prerequisite: Junior standing.
BIOL 3800 - Advanced Topics in Biology Seminar - 3 credits
Offered periodically within a three-year academic cycle
This course is designed to formally guide students to an in-depth exploration of, and engagement in, a series of specific advanced topics in biology. Focus is on current research journal literature related to theory, current applications, research questions, and methodologies. Knowledge competencies are assessed through involvement in open discussions, written assignments, and oral presentations. Topics vary from semester to semester.
BIOL 3900 - Senior Seminar in Biology- 1 credit
Fall Semester
This course design is to further foster the development of knowledge and skills used by professional scientists and engage in career preparation activities for Science Majors. The main goal is the production and delivery of professional quality oral presentations on current research. Extensive analysis of primary scientific literature is central to this course as it provides practical experience in developing the skills in oral communication used by all scientists. Students engaged in research projects also discuss their work/progress and problems that may be arising.
Prerequisites: At least 65 credits accumulated as a Biology major.
BIOL 4000 - Research Communication - 1 credit
Fall and Spring Semesters
Consists of supervised preparation, by the student, of a written report and an oral presentation based on their independent research.
Prerequisite: Permission of area instructor. Signature of faculty supervisor and Department Chair required. Strongly recommended that this be taken the semester after Independent Research 4010 but may be completed concurrently.
This course meets the General Education Active Learning requirement.
BIOL 4000-H - Honors Thesis - 1 credit
Fall and Spring Semesters
This course will give students an overview of the relevant scientific literature relating to their research project with an emphasis on evaluating, analyzing and reporting their research findings. After completion of authentic research on a question/problem, either in the field, or in a lab on campus or off campus; or in libraries/internet; students will write-up research report and give a public oral presentation to the Science Department and others. Signature of faculty supervisor and Department Chair required.
Prerequisite: Honors Research. Ideally this course will be taken in the spring semester of the student’s senior year. This course can serve as a substitute for BIOL/CHEM/ENVS/FSC 4000 for Honors candidates.
BIOL 4010 - Independent Research in Biology - 1-3 credits
Fall and Spring Semesters
Independent research on a topic of current interest. Principles of both literature and experimental (field or laboratory) and/or theoretical research are performed under a faculty member’s supervision. The student will be required to investigate literature in the field and gain understanding of the nature of the problem/question and methodology that will be used in investigation. Student will be required to do actual research in libraries or labs, on- or off-campus. Signature of faculty supervisor and department chair required. This course meets the General Education Active Learning requirement.
Pre-requisites: Permission of area instructor. The project must begin no later than the fall of the student’s senior year.
This course meets the General Education Active Learning requirement. Students may take this course more than one time for credit.
BIOL 4010-H - Honors Independent Research - 3 credits
Fall and Spring Semesters
Familiar with relevant research in the discipline, an ability to identify valid data and the use to data to drive decisions will be achieved through independent research on a topic of current interest. Principles of both literature and experimental (field or laboratory) and/or theoretical research are performed under a faculty member’s supervision. The student will be required to do authentic research on a question/problem, either in the field, or in a lab on campus or off campus. Signature of faculty supervisor and Department Chair required. Students may not take this course more than one time for credit. This course can serve as a substitute for BIOL/CHEM/ENVS/FSC 4010 for Honors candidates.
Prerequisite: Honors candidate and permission of advisor. The project must begin no later than the fall of the student’s senior year.