Biology Courses (BIOL)

Is a lecture/lab course designed to introduce the non-science major to basic Mendelian and molecular genetics with special emphasis on human characteristics and diseases. Social, ethical and evolutionary issues are discussed.

Provides the non-biology major with a basic survey of human anatomy and physiology. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between structure and function, homeostasis and homeostatic regulating mechanisms. This class meets three lecture periods and one two-hour laboratory period each week.

Is intended for the non-science major, and will consider the biological nature of humans and the role that humans play in the biosphere. Topics for discussion will include the nature of biology in society, body systems and homeostasis, genetics, cancer, and human evolution and ecology. Course includes laboratory experiences.

Is a lab and lecture course that introduces the non-science major to the impact of plants on the past, present, and future of human civilization. Topics include the origin of agricultural crops, plants that changed history, the green revolution, medicinal plants, supermarket botany and genetic engineering of plants. Also included is a brief introduction to plant structure, function, and classification.

This course has been designed to provide elementary education majors with the background in biology needed to teach elementary life science. Concepts from the physical sciences will be incorporated to demonstrate the relationship between all fields of science. The course will use laboratory investigations to enhance understanding of biological concepts and to emphasize the discovery nature of science. An in-service learning experience has been added to this course to allow students to apply what they have learned by developing and teaching science lessons to 4th or 5th graders at Farragut Elementary School.

Provides an introduction to basic biological concepts in the areas of biological chemistry, cell biology, and genetics. Student should have taken HS Chemistry.

Provides laboratory experiences to complement the lecture material presented in BIOL 124 and introduces the student to basic lab techniques and scientific method.

Provides an introduction to basic biological concepts in the areas of biological diversity, zoology, botany, and ecology.

Emphasizes the process of biological investigation, with group and individual projects, to study evolution, biodiversity and ecology.

Introduces the concepts and themes of ecology and evolution and how these topics relate to organismal diversity. This course is an introduction to the foundations of evolution and ecology and the emphasis is on describing the diversity we see in present day populations and the role of evolution and ecology. We will address the mechanisms that can drive evolution and, using examples from different levels of biological organization, highlight the role of selection on diversification. Taxonomy, phylogenies and cladogenesis will be used to explain historical and extant species assemblages, while ecology will allow us to view habitat, niche fulfillment and current assemblages.

A lab course which introduces biology and biochemistry majors to the scientific method and how to apply it to simple investigations. Scientific integrity, literacy and communication will be emphasized.

A study of cell structure and function, emphasizing the molecular components, metabolism, organelles, motility, and growth and division. The molecular biology of cells and the regulation of cellular processes are emphasized along with the connection between cell biology and other aspects of the biological sciences. Laboratory exercise will include light microscopy, molecular cellular experiments and other experiments in cell biology.

Will introduce students to aspects of tropical ecology including: weather patterns, forest structure, biodiversity and its importance, conservation and evolution. To better appreciate topics such as biodiversity and speciation, students will attain literacy in areas of biology such as ecology, mechanisms of speciation and extinction. The emphasis will be rooted in the scientific method and inquiry as to promote literacy in scientific though and reason. Also to highlight the topics discussed in class, a field component is incorporated where the class will travel to Costa Rica and Panama to explore tropical biology and diversity first hand.

A course which covers broad themes, practices, and subject content not currently offered in the curriculum. This course is directed primarily at non-majors and may be used for general education where approved.

Introduces the student to microbial morphology, physiology, ecology, and the identification of microorganisms through a series of investigations. The fundamentals of immunology and medical microbiology are also introduced. Three lecture periods and two two-hour laboratory periods meet per week.

Provides an introduction to regional gross anatomy for students engaged in pre-professional study as well as those interested in nursing and allied health. Human anatomy will be covered from a functional and clinical perspective. In the laboratory, students use software, models, histological sections, radiographs and prosected cadavers. The class will meet for three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week.

Is a detailed study of functions of the human body. Emphasis is placed on homeostasis, fundamental physiological mechanisms and the coordination and integration of major body systems. Case studies are used to apply physiological principles to clinical applications. The class will meet for three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week.

Provides students with a broad background in transmission genetics, molecular genetics, evolutionary genetics, and genomics. Emphasis will be on the correlation between genotype and phenotype, and how biological information stored in chromosomes are inherited, mutated and used by living organisms. The laboratory will introduce students to techniques used in molecular genetics and genomics, including PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, gene annotation and bioinformatics. This course meets for three hours of lecture and three hours of lab per week.

Acquaints the student with the general characteristics of each phylum of the animal kingdom. Detailed structure and function of organ systems are studied in specific representatives of each invertebrate phylum. Laboratory investigations include analysis of local invertebrate communities. Two lecture periods and two two-hour laboratory periods meet per week.

Builds upon the knowledge of normal human structure and function gained in anatomy and physiology courses. The course begins with a discussion of the concept of health versus disease. The focus is on disease or the physiological alterations in body structure and pathological disruptions in function. These deviations are discussed using Orem's universal self-care requisites as an organizing framework. The course is designed to allow the student to integrate principles and concepts of Pathophysiology into concurrent and subsequent clinical nursing courses.

Examines the biology of the arthropods; the most successful group of terrestrial invertebrates. Terrestrial crustacea, myriapoda, arachnida, and insects will be covered. The emphasis will be on the taxonomy, ecology, and evolution of the spiders and insects including their impact on humans. Laboratory will be used to 1) collect, identify, and preserve specimens, and 2) to investigate arthropod behavior and physiology.

Provides the student with an understanding of the evolution of the major organ systems of the amphioxus, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals including man. The comparison of organs is addressed with special emphasis on the evolutionary relationships between each class of chordates.

Includes the study of the external anatomy of the amphioxus, comparison of the skeletal systems of the dogfish shark, frog, turtle, bird, and cat, as well as dissection of the dogfish shark and cat.

Provides the student with insight into the development of vertebrates, beginning with gametogenesis, fertilization, cleavage, blastulation, gastrulation, and neurulation. Emphasis is placed on the nature of the primary organizer, induction, and organogenesis. Three lecture periods and one two-hour laboratory meet per week.

This is an advanced course in human anatomy. It is primarily a course involving the regional dissection of the human cadaver, covering specific regions or anatomical principles as appropriate.

Introduces molecular biology through a class molecular biology investigation. Techniques covered will include DNA purification, sequencing and blotting; PCR amplification; gene cloning and engineering techniques; and mRNA isolation and analysis. This class will be investigation driven with an emphasis on developing workable strategies to solving questions at the molecular level.

Introduces students to the basic structural, reproductive and evolutionary patterns seen in the plant kingdom. The class will meet for three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week.

Introduces students to conservation biology, which is an interdisciplinary science that focuses on biodiversity at the genetic, population, species, ecosystem, and global levels. The course emphasizes the ecological and evolutionary processes that form the basis for the protection, maintenance and restoration of biological diversity, but the economic and political effects are also investigated. The impacts of humans on biodiversity and the effects of biodiversity on humans are both addressed.

An investigation of pathogenic viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoans with an emphasis on life cycles, virulence, diagnostic testing, and host responses. Content in this class is taught with a combination of case studies, primary literature, and guided lectures.

Considers adaptive and innate responses to infection and disease, including mechanisms of T and B lymphocyte-mediated immunity and contribution to allergies and autoimmune disease. Transplantation and tumor immunology will also be considered. Current literature will be examined to introduce modern theories on immunoregulation. Two or three lecture periods per week.

Examines Darwin's theory of evolution and natural selection and recent biology research that supports the role evolution has had in shaping organisms.

The study of the mechanical function and design of biologic tissues or organisms. Principles from the fields of physics, engineering, and anatomy will be used to analyze the kinematics and kinetics of the healthy and pathologic human musculoskeletal system.

Will experimentally investigate the effects of water, nutrients, and light on plant growth and development. The topics will be studied at the molecular, cellular and environmental levels. Three lecture periods and one three-hour laboratory meet per week.

Examines the physiological and metabolic actions of selected endocrine glands and their hormones. Strong emphasis is placed on mammalian physiology and the mechanism of hormone action, as well as diseases caused by inappropriate hormone function. The first part of the course will cover the general principles of endocrinology, followed by system-based approach to endocrinology. CHEM 322/3 is recommended.

Teaches the student how humans attempt to maintain homeostasis during physical activity. Topics will include diverse areas such as metabolism, ventilation, cardiovascular dynamics, and skeletal muscle properties and function. In addition, the student will spend time in the laboratory to collect physiological data on exercising subject using research grade laboratory equipment. The student will also assess and critically evaluate the current scientific literature regarding exercise physiology.

Introduces student to the study of animal behavior (Ethology) and how behaviors are developed. The emphasis will be placed on naturally occurring behavior but reference training, conditioning and relevant behavioral modification will be introduced. Student will become proficient in topics such as the history of ethology, modeling behavior, sensory system reliance, signaling and communication. Evolution will be explored to demonstrate the importance of ecology in the development of behavior and species specific interactions.

Acquaints the student with the dynamics of ecological relationships between man, animals, plants, and the environment. The laboratory will include field experiments in representative ecosystems. The class will meet for 3 hours of lecture and one 3-hour lab per week. Additionally, some weekend fieldwork will be required.

Exposes students to scientific investigation in greater depth than is achieved in standard laboratory courses and introduces them to independent scientific research. Students will be presented with a specific, multi-faceted scientific question that they will explore in small groups. Each group will investigate one component of the overall question using critical thinking and the scientific methods via traditional bench testing, fieldwork, and/or numerical analytical methods. The groups will then work together as a class to assimilate their results into a coherent explanation/solution of the overarching question.

Exposes students to scientific investigation in greater depth than is achieved in standard laboratory courses and introduces them to independent scientific research. Students will be presented with a specific, multi-faceted scientific question that they will explore in small groups. Each group will investigate one component of the overall question using critical thinking and the scientific methods via traditional bench testing, fieldwork, and/or numerical analytical methods. The groups will then work together as a class to assimilate their results into a coherent explanation/solution of the overarching question.

Examines methods and techniques for teaching science to middle grades and high school students. Focus will be upon laboratory experiences, teaching in the field, applications of the scientific inquiry method, use of technology, questioning and listening skills, delivery methods, differentiation, instructional planning, and assessment procedures. Classroom organization and management, relevant content and instructional standards, and professional development are also addressed.

Further develops the undergraduate research projects from previous semesters. Students will demonstrate critical thinking, an ability to synthesize scientific literature, an understanding of the scientific process and the ability to communicate biological concepts in writing and oral presentations.

Acquaints the student with research and reference facilities and offers the opportunity for independent research. Successful completion of thesis proposal, outline and bibliography are required before advancing to BIOL 412.

Is a continuation of BIOL 411. Students prepare and complete their thesis under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Students also prepare for the oral presentation of their research at the end of the semester.

In this capstone course, senior biology/secondary education majors will create a portfolio that includes an innovative unit of scientific inquiry based upon a research project that they have completed in BIOL151, BIOL375, or BIOL495. The portfolio should include a developed primaryresearch manuscript of the scientific project completed, a reflective narrative on the process of developing it for high school-level inquiry, and a unit of how they would teach the project to a high school classroom. The unit should include lesson plans clearly linked to Next Generation Science Standards, with formative and summative assessments, and suggestions for modifications and extensions. The portfolio will be presented to a committee of biology and education faculty for review.

Are specialized courses offered depending on student and faculty interests.

Offers advanced or specialized botany courses through the ACCA Cooperative College Botany Program at the Morton Arboretum.

This course will be taught at the Shedd Aquarium and include a week-long field experience aboard the Shedd Aquarium's research vessel, the R/V Coral Reef II on the Bahamas.

This course will be taught at the Shedd Aquarium and include a week-long field experience aboard the Shedd Aquarium's research vessel, the R/V Coral Reef II on the Bahamas.

Affords the student the opportunity of investigating a biological problem by laboratory or field experience. The study should be defined prior to registration through consultation with the supervising instructor.

An academic learning experience designed by the instructor. Student must have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

Allows students to select their own topic of investigation and determine their own way of pursuing and reporting work. A faculty advisor serves as a resource person. Students provide goals, materials, and criteria for evaluation. Requires approval of dean.

Selects students to engage in research activities with scientists at local research institutions such as Argonne National Laboratory, Morton Arboretum, Shedd Aquarium and with the Will County Forest Preserve District.

Allows for credit to be earned through internships and cooperative programs such as those available through Argonne National Laboratory, Morton Arboretum, Shedd Aquarium, and Will County Forest Preserve District.