Biology

Charles A. Dana Professor Karen Hinkle; Professor Lauren Howard; Associate Professors Megan Doczi (Chair), Allison Neal, Scott Page and Simon Pearish; Senior Lecturer David Ebenstein (Lab Coordinator); Lecturers Mary Beth Klinger-Lawrence and Amanda Northrop.

A core curriculum of science, mathematics and English courses ensures development of appropriate analytical and communication skills. Rounding out the major, four free biology electives and seven free electives allow students to design their program to meet specific career goals and develop one or more minors and/or double majors. A special Pre-medical Committee oversees students on a Pre-medical/Pre-dental track and assists in the placement of these graduates. 

Biology is the scientific discipline that investigates life in all of its forms. An appreciation of the complexity of structure and function requires the use of a variety of teaching tools, including the use of living and preserved organisms. Consequently, both living and preserved organisms will be ethically and humanely employed whenever appropriate to further student understanding and appreciation for life.

Mission:

Biology and Neuroscience curricula offer students the opportunity to study the structure and function of living systems, from the complexity of cellular components to whole organism dynamics to ecosystem design.

Goals:
  • Prepare students for admission into graduate, medical, optometry, dentistry, and veterinary medical schools as well as entry into the workforce in various biology-related fields.

Outcomes:
  • Graduates understand and have broad knowledge of the biological sciences including, but not limited to, botany, zoology, cell biology, genetics, evolution, and other laboratory-based sciences, as well as ecology and other field sciences.
  • Graduates are prepared for successful employment in a profession in the field of biology, or for graduate or professional school.
     
Careers for these Majors:
  • Graduate School: Medical, Optometry, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine
  • Environmental Science
  • Biotechnology
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Research and Development

Biology (B.S.) – Curriculum Map 2021-2022 Catalog

New PlanGrids
Freshman
Fall Cr. Comp. Spring Cr. Comp.
BI 101 Principles of Biology I (General Education Lab Science) c4BI 102 Principles of Biology II (General Education Lab Science) c4
CH 103 General Chemistry I4BI 203 Introduction to Scientific Method & Bioscientific Terminology c1
EN 110 Writing and Inquiry in Public Contexts3CH 104 General Chemistry II4
MA 107 Precalculus Mathematics (General Education Math)4MA 108 Applied Calculus (General Education Math)
or 232 Elementary Statistics
3-4
   EN 111 Writing and Inquiry in Academic Contexts3
      
Fall Semester Total Cr.: 15Spring Semester Total Cr.: 15-16
Sophomore
Fall Cr. Comp. Spring Cr. Comp.
BI 205 Ecology c4BI 226 Cell Biology c4
CH 225 Organic Chemistry I4CH 226 Organic Chemistry II4
General Education History3 General Education Leadership1-3 
General Education Literature3 General Education Social Science3 
   Free Elective3 
      
Fall Semester Total Cr.: 14Spring Semester Total Cr.: 15-17
Junior
Fall Cr. Comp. Spring Cr. Comp.
BI 303 Genetics c4BI 395 Evolution c4
BI 300/400-Level Elective c, 14 BI 300/400-Level Elective c, 14 
PS 201 General Physics I4PS 202 General Physics II4
General Education Ethics3 General Education Arts & Humanities3 
Free Elective3 Free Elective3 
      
Fall Semester Total Cr.: 18Spring Semester Total Cr.: 18
Senior
Fall Cr. Comp. Spring Cr. Comp.
BI 401 Senior Seminar (Capstone) c3BI 300/400-Level Elective c, 14 
BI 300/400-Level Elective c, 14 Free Elective 23 
Free Elective 23 Free Elective3 
Free Elective3 Free Elective3 
      
Fall Semester Total Cr.: 13Spring Semester Total Cr.: 13
TOTAL CREDITS FOR THIS MAJOR: 121-124

Biology Minor 2021-2022 Catalog

A Biology major is ineligible to declare the minor. Each course requires a C or higher.

BI 101Principles of Biology I4
BI 102Principles of Biology II4
BI Elective (200 level or higher)3-4
BI Elective (200 level or higher)3-4
BI Elective (200 level or higher)3-4
Bi Elective (200 level or higher)3-4
Total Cr.20-24

Courses

BI 101 Principles of Biology I 4 Cr.

Designed for science majors, an introduction to biochemistry, cell structure, metabolism, and protein synthesis, as well as human anatomy and physiology. Dissection of living and preserved animals is required. Credit may not be earned for both BI 101 and BI 122. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Goal 4. Offered: Fall.

BI 102 Principles of Biology II 4 Cr.

This course explores genetics, evolutionary theory, diversity of life on earth, history of life on earth, and ecology. Dissection of preserved animals is required. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Goal 4. Prerequisite: BI 101. Offered: Spring.

BI 122 Concepts in Biology 4 Cr.

A lab science course exclusively for non-science majors that aims to give students an appreciation of the major concepts and current topics in biology. Concepts include cell structures, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, genetics, evolution and ecology as well as human anatomy and physiology. Current topics may include stem cell research, nutrition, diseases, steroid abuse, traumatic brain injury, global climate change, and other pertinent issues. Dissection of preserved animals is required. Credit may not be earned for both BI 101 and BI 122. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Goal 4. Offered: Fall, Spring.

BI 188 No Norwich Equivalent 6 Cr.

BI 203 Introduction to Scientific Method & Bioscientific Terminology 1 Cr.

An introduction to the philosophy of science, the scientific method and bioscientific terminology including an analysis of data and interpretation of scientific and science-related popular press articles. Includes exposure to various forms of scientific communication. Prepares students majoring in the biological sciences. 1 Lecture hour. Prerequisite: Biology major. Offered: Spring.

BI 205 Ecology 4 Cr.

Students study the interrelationships between organisms and the environment. Major concepts include evolution, ecosystem structure and function, community structure, species diversity, succession, interspecific and intraspecific relationships, competition, predation, behavior, population growth and regulation. 3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab-fieldwork hours. Prerequisite: One college-level math course, Biology major or Environmental Science major. Permission of Instructor.

BI 215 Human Anatomy & Physiology I 4 Cr.

The first half of a two-semester course exploring human anatomy and physiology. Cellular metabolism, tissues, and the skeletal, muscle, integumentary, and nervous body systems are discussed. Dissection of preserved animals is required. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Offered: Fall, Summer.

BI 216 Human Anatomy & Physiology II 4 Cr.

The second half of a two-semester course exploring human anatomy and physiology. The endocrine, digestive, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic (including the immune response), urinary, and reproductive body systems are discussed. Dissection of preserved animals is required. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Prerequisite: BI 215. Offered: Spring, Summer.

BI 220 Introductory Microbiology 4 Cr.

A survey of microbiology with emphasis on microorganisms of medical significance. Fundamentals of microbial structure, physiology and control are considered along with the role of pathogenic organisms in the infectious and disease processes. Laboratory exercises are designed to provide facility in visualizing, staining, culturing, enumerating, isolating, maintaining, and identifying microorganisms. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Offered: Spring.

BI 226 Cell Biology 4 Cr.

A molecular level examination of the ultrastructure and function of the cytoplasm, intracellular components, cell membrane, extracellular structures and formation, and excretion of extracellular products. Recent molecular biology developments are stressed, including the implications for the biotechnology industry. The laboratory component includes state-of-the-art procedures and emphasizes hands-on experimental techniques. May require dissection of living animals. 3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab hours. Prerequisites: BI 101, CH 104. Offered: Spring.

BI 288 No Norwich Equivalent 6 Cr.

BI 299 Topics in Biology 4 Cr.

This course number is used for trying new Biology courses the first time they are offered prior to approval by the University's Curriculum Committee.

BI 302 Embryology 4 Cr.

A study of the fundamental principles of development through the establishment of the major organs and systems, exemplified in the laboratory by study of representative embryonic forms. May require dissection of living and preserved animals. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Offered: Spring, even years.

BI 303 Genetics 4 Cr.

The physical and chemical basis of inheritance, expression, and interaction of the hereditary units, linkage, and variation. The application of Mendelian principles to plants and animals. Consideration is also given to microbial and viral genetics, genetic engineering, and related topics. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Prerequisite: BI 102. Offered: Fall.

BI 304 Physiology 4 Cr.

A study of the physiologic systems of humans and homeostatic feedback mechanisms that regulate the internal environment. Physical and chemical principles, cell physiology, with emphasis on homeostatic mechanisms and the study of functions of organ systems. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Prerequisites: BI 101, CH 104. Offered: Fall, even years.

BI 305 Biomedical Techniques 4 Cr.

Students are familiarized with the theories and applications of the new technologies that pervade the fields of biotechnology and molecular biology. Laboratory exercises illustrate key concepts and provide hands-on experience in the use of instrumentation essential to molecular biologists. 2 Lecture hours and 4 Lab hours. Prerequisites: BI 102 or BI 216 and CH 104. Offered: Occasionally.

BI 316 Plant Taxonomy 4 Cr.

A general survey of the taxonomy and evolution of vascular plants, emphasizing herbaceous plants. Recognition of plant families, identification of species, and principles of collecting and preserving are stressed. 3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab hours. Prerequisite: BI 102. Offered: Fall, even years.

BI 326 Natural History of the Vertebrates 4 Cr.

A study of the classification, identification, and ecology of the vertebrates with special emphasis on the local fauna including collection and preservation of organisms. 3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab hours. Prerequisite: BI 102. Offered: Fall, odd years.

BI 330 Immunology 4 Cr.

A course presenting the basic principles of immunology, including antigen-antibody characteristics, the role of the immune system in defense and disease, and the application of fundamental concepts in the development of new technologies and immunodiagnosis. 3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab hours. Prerequisites: BI 102 or BI 216 and 1 year of college chemistry. Offered: Spring, odd years.

BI 341 Plant Anatomy 4 Cr.

The anatomy of vascular plants analyzed from an evolutionary viewpoint are discussed including cell structure, tissues, their distribution in roots, stems, leaves and reproductive organs, and plant development. 3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab hours. Prerequisite: BI 102. Offered: Spring, odd years.

BI 351 Dendrology and Silvics 4 Cr.

An introduction to major woody plant species in the Northeast, including taxonomic characteristics, life histories, habitat requirements, and economic importance. 3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab-fieldwork hours. Prerequisite: BI 102. Offered: Fall, odd years.

BI 370 Introduction to Neuroscience 4 Cr.

An interdisciplinary course introducing the structure and function of the mammalian nervous system. Topics include, neuronal development, sensory and motor systems, chemical control of the brain and behavior, and the underlying mechanisms of neurodegenerative disease. May require dissection of living animals. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Prerequisites: BI 101 and BI 215 or PY 230. Offered: Fall.

BI 388 No Norwich Equivalent 6 Cr.

BI 395 Evolution 4 Cr.

This course introduces Darwinian and Non-Darwinian mechanisms of evolutionary change, a history of life in the context of contemporary biology, and scientific and cultural controversies surrounding this topic. 4 Lecture hours. Prerequisites: BI 102, BI 303. Offered: Spring.

BI 399 Pilot Course in Biology at the Upper-level 4 Cr.

A course is permitted to run as a pilot, without seeking faculty approval for one academic year. The section will include the title of the course. A student will not earn credit for a pilot course and the course when approved as its own course.

BI 401 Senior Seminar 3 Cr.

The capstone course integrating reading, writing, speaking and critical thinking skills. It includes instruction in scientific writing, use of contemporary scientific biological literature, and library research techniques. Students prepare research papers on current topics using primary sources and give oral presentations to the department faculty. 3 Lecture hours. Prerequisites: Senior standing. Offered: Fall.

BI 415 Neuroanatomy 4 Cr.

The anatomy of the brain and nervous system, with an emphasis on human neuroanatomy is discussed in this course including gross and microscopic anatomy, with in depth treatments of physical and functional organization, and major neural pathways. 3 Lecture hours and 2 Lab hours. Prerequisite: BI 370. Offered: Fall, odd years.

BI 420 Diseases of the Nervous System 4 Cr.

An in-depth study of the biological basis of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Topics include developmental disorders, impairments of higher function, and the underlying mechanisms of neurodegenerative disease. Drug development and other therapeutic treatment strategies are discussed. 4 Lecture hours. Prerequisite: BI 370. Offered: Spring, even years.

BI 424 Woodland Ecology and Management 4 Cr.

A review of biotic and abiotic factors controlling the forest environment, methods for determining vegetation structure and succession, introduction to major forest associations in the Northeast, and consequences of various harvesting and management techniques. 3 Lecture hours and 3 field hours. Prerequisites: BI 351 or BI 316. Offered: Spring, even years.

BI 426 Ecological Parasitology 4 Cr.

A broad overview of major groups of eukaryotic parasites with an emphasis on internal parasites important to human and veterinary health. In addition to covering the basic morphological and phylogenetic details of each group, focus is on how these parasites interact with and affect each other and their hosts. 3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab hours. Prerequisite: BI 205. Offered: Fall, even years.

BI 440 Reading and Research 3,4 Cr.

Independent study. BI 440 may be taken no more than twice, for 7 maximum credits. An approved topic, a brief outline of the research to be conducted and a signature from a biology mentor are submitted to the department chair prior to the seventh day of the term in which enrolled. Prerequisites: Junior or higher Biology major with 3.0 Cumulative GPA in biology courses. Offered: Spring.

BI 450 Internship in Biology 3-7 Cr.

Internship in Biology; open to Biology majors. Seven maximum credits are allowed. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.

BI 488 No Norwich Equivalent 6 Cr.