Southwestern University
 
 2005-2006 Catalog

Academic Calendar

Southwestern University: A Statement
The Academic Program
Degree Requirements
Academic Regulations

Course Descriptions

Brown College of Arts & Sciences
 Biology
 Chemistry
 Classics
 Communication Studies
 Economics & Business
 Education
 English
 History
 Kinesiology
 Math & Computer Science
 Modern Languages & Literatures
 Physics
 Political Science
 Psychology
 Religion & Philosophy
 Sociology & Anthropology

Sarofim School of Fine Arts
 Art
 Music
 Theatre

Interdisciplinary Programs
Special Academic Programs

Admission & Financial Aid
Student Life
Cultural Activities
History & Governance
Endowments & Scholarships

University Directory
Board & Officers
Faculty
Administration
 

  BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT

Biology Department

Division of Natural Sciences

Associate Professor Rebecca Ann Sheller, PhD, Chair

Professor Stephanie L. Fabritius, PhD

Professor Benjamin Pierce, PhD

Assistant Professor Romi Burks, PhD

Assistant Professor Maria Cuevas, PhD

Assistant Professor Martín Gonzalez, PhD

Assistant Professor Daniel R. (Max) Taub, PhD

Assistant Professor Maria C. Todd, PhD

Instructor Linda Southwick Johnson, MT, MS

Assistant Professor James W. Ard, DVM (part-time)

Instructor Larry C. Boles, MS (part-time)

The Biology Department presents students with the challenge and excitement of learning about living organisms and their relationships to their environment. The courses offered by the department cover a broad range of topics within three main subdivisions of biology: cellular and molecular biology, organismal biology, and ecology and evolutionary biology. Most of the courses have a lecture component combined with a laboratory component. Laboratories are conducted in Fondren-Jones Science Hall facilities, a greenhouse, and a 17-acre biological field station on the North San Gabriel River.

Introductory courses in the Department of Biology can serve either as prerequisites for further study for the biology major/minor or satisfy the Life Science component of The Natural World in the Perspectives on Knowledge area of the General Education Requirements. Non-introductory courses are designed for students seeking more in-depth information on cellular and molecular, organismal, and ecology and evolutionary biology and for students with specific vocational aims.

The Department of Biology offers majors and minors for the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees. Interdisciplinary majors in Animal Behavior and Environmental Studies are supported by the Department of Biology.

By proper selection of course combinations, students can prepare for various options, such as entrance into graduate or professional schools (dental, medical, medical technology, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, and veterinary) and acquisition of positions in industry, government, public health, and teaching. Students should consult with their academic advisors and other members of the department for assistance in making proper course selections that will prepare them for their chosen career directions. The Bachelor of Science degree is recommended for students seeking entrance into professional schools, graduate schools or technician positions in industry. The Bachelor of Arts degree allows flexibility.

The capstone experience for the biology major consists of either a research project approved by the Department of Biology or a capstone seminar (50-931). Consult with members of the department for more details on the capstone experience.

NOTE: Biology majors must complete the first-year Biology sequence (Biology 50-102, 112, 122, 162) and Biology 50-222, 232 with a grade of C- or better before enrolling in any additional courses above the introductory level.


Major in Biology (BA or BS): 34-35 semester hours, including Biology 50-102, 112, 122, 162, 222, 232; 50-931 or an approved research experience (Capstone); one cellular and molecular biology course from 50-474, 484, 573/571, 583 or 583/581, 864, 874; one organismal biology course from 50-324, 344, 353, 364, 394, 424, 444; one ecology and evolutionary biology course from 50-214, 334, 414, 434; three additional courses from the cellular and molecular, organismal, and ecology and evolution subdisciplines. At least four of the six courses from these subdisciplines must have a laboratory component. Upon recommendation of the advisor, up to two of the following courses may be substituted for the additional course requirement, but will not count under any specific subdiscipline: 50-303, 304, 971, 972, 973, 983. Four semester hours of Introduction to Research (50-971, 972, 973) may substitute for only one of the required laboratory courses.

Required supporting courses in the major (BA): 15 semester hours, including Chemistry 51-153/151; 51-163/161 or 173/171; 51-553/551; Mathematics 52-113.

Required supporting courses in the major (BS): 31 semester hours, including Chemistry 51-153/151; 51-163/161 or 173/171; 51-553/551, 563/561; Mathematics 52-113, 154; Physics 53-154, 164.

Minor in Biology: 20 semester hours, including Biology 50-102, 112, 122, 162, and 12 semester hours of Biology above the introductory level. At least one of the above introductory level courses must include a laboratory component.

See the Education Department for information regarding teacher certification in Biology.

Biology (BIO)

NOTE: Successful completion of any two of the following mini-courses (half semester, 7-week courses) will yield credit for POK-Natural World: Life Science - BIO50-102, 112, 122, 162.

†50-102CELL BIOLOGY (3-3; half-semester). An introduction to biologically important molecules, cell structure and function, cellular bioenergetics (cellular respiration and photosynthesis) and cellular reproduction. Emphasis on animal and plant cells. The course includes a weekly laboratory session and night exams. The course is a foundation-building course required of students majoring in biology. (Fall)
†50-112BIODIVERSITY (3-3; half-semester). Following a review of evolution and natural selection, this course will survey all domains of life. Emphasis will be placed on how different organisms interact with their environment and with each other. The course includes a weekly laboratory session and night exams. The course is a foundation-building course required of students majoring in biology. (Fall)
†50-113HUMAN BIOLOGY TODAY (2-2). A life science perspectives course focusing on the function of selected organ systems within the body and how they are altered by various disease processes, such as bacterial and viral infections, hypertension, HIV, cancer, heart disease, hearing loss, visual impairment, and Alzheimer’s disease. Laboratory exercises reinforce lecture material and promote observation, experimentation, and analysis skills. Microcomputers are used in the laboratory. (POK-Natural World: Life Science)
†50-122GENETICS AND EVOLUTION (3-3; half-semester). This course introduces the basic principles of genetics. Classical genetics topics include: cell division, sexual reproduction, Mendelian genetics, genetic maps, and polygenic inheritance. Population genetics topics include: Hardy-Weinberg Law, changes in allelic frequencies, and mechanisms of microevolution. The course includes a weekly laboratory session and night exams. The course is a foundation-building course required of students majoring in biology. (Spring)
†50-123BIOLOGY OF FOOD (2-2). A life science perspectives course focusing on understanding the food plants and animals we eat as living organisms. Topics covered will include food plant anatomy and physiology, alternative crops, nutritional biochemistry, and the genetic modification of crop plants. (POK-Natural World: Life Science)
†50-132LIFE PROCESSES (3-3; half-semester). An introduction to the structural and functional aspects of complex, multicellular organisms at the organ systems level. The organ systems in animals include the integument, skeletal, muscular, nervous and sensory, circulatory, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, digestive, excretory, endocrine, and reproductive systems. Course also includes an introduction to developmental processes in animals. Although primary emphasis will be on animals, examples of plant life processes will be cited. The course includes a weekly laboratory session and night exams. The course formerly was a foundation-building course required of students majoring in biology.
†50-133MICROBES IN EVERYDAY LIFE (2-2). A life science perspectives course on the dynamics and diversity of the microbial world. In addition to learning the scientific approach and techniques used in the study of the microbial world, the course emphasizes the role microbes play in the everyday life of humankind. Different aspects of microbial ecology, medical microbiology, industrial microbiology, water and food microbiology, and biotechnology will be explored. (POK-Natural World: Life Science)
†50-143ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (2-2). A life science perspectives course emphasizing the interactions of organisms with their environment. In addition to this introductory survey of ecology, we will study current applied ecological issues such as species diversity, conservation biology, greenhouse effects, acid rain, and biological control. Also Environmental Studies 49-143. (POK-Natural World: Life Science)
†50-162GENES AND MOLECULES (3-3; half-semester). This course will focus upon the molecular basis of inheritance and gene expression. Topics covered will include DNA structure, replication and repair, transcription and translation, regulation of gene expression, mitosis and meiosis and regulation of the cell cycle. The course includes a weekly lab session and night exams. The course is a foundation-building course required of students majoring in Biology. (Spring)
†50-163BIOLOGY OF PERCEPTION (2-2). A life science perspectives course on how humans perceive light, sounds, smells, taste, and touch. Various properties of these modalities in our environment and their transduction into neural signals will be described. Experimental design, execution, analyses, and presentation are included in the laboratory component of the course. (POK-Natural World: Life Science)
50-204MOLECULAR GENETICS (3-3). This course focuses on the molecules and processes involved in prokaryotic and eukaryotic inheritance. Topics covered will include: DNA structure and replication, transcription, translation, regulation of gene expression, molecular biological techniques and applications, and an introduction to developmental genetics. A required weekly laboratory experience will include experimental design and investigative projects. Prerequisites: Biology 50-102, 112, 122, 132. (Fall and Spring)
50-214 ANIMAL BEHAVIOR (3-3). Study of the methods of science in animal behavior and selected areas in ethology including behavioral genetics, communication, foraging strategies, learning, navigation and migration, ontogeny of behavior, and territoriality. Laboratory experiences provide hands-on experiences in field and laboratory research related to these content areas. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 222 OR Psychology 33-103.
50-222METHODS IN ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY (2-2; half-semester). This lecture/laboratory course is a foundation-building course that contains instruction on reading the primary literature in ecology and evolutionary biology, conducting literature searches, designing experiments, writing scientific papers, using quantitative methods, exercising critical thinking skills for data analyses, creating graphs, and developing specific laboratory and field research skills for ecology and evolutionary biology. Prerequisite: Biology 50-102, 112, 122, 162, and Mathematics 52-113. (Fall and Spring)
50-232METHODS IN CELLULAR/MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (2-2; half-semester). This lecture/laboratory course is a foundation-building course that contains instruction on reading the primary literature in cellular/molecular biology, conducting literature searches, designing experiments, writing scientific papers, using quantitative methods, exercising critical thinking skills for data analyses, creating graphs, and developing specific laboratory skills for cellular/molecular biology. Prerequisites: Biology 50-102, 112, 122, 162. (Fall and Spring)
50-324BOTANY (3-3). This course explores the life histories and adaptations of terrestrial plants, with an emphasis on plant evolutionary biology, ecology and physiology. The laboratory will both explore these same themes, and additionally emphasize plant identification skills and knowledge of the local woody flora. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 222. (Fall)
50-334EVOLUTION (3-3). An exploration of the possible mechanisms of evolution. Topics to be discussed include natural selection, punctuated evolution, population genetics, adaptation, units of selection, speciation, evolutionary biogeography, and macroevolution. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 222. (Fall)
50-344PLANT PHYSIOLOGY (3-3). This course will examine the functioning of plants, particularly with respect to growth, resource capture and utilization, and tolerance of environmental stresses. Topics covered will include photosynthesis, mineral nutrition, plant hormones and developmental responses to light. Emphasis will also be placed on plant responses to global environmental changes (rising CO2, increased nitrogen deposition, pollutants) and to the uses of genetically modified and mutagenized plants in research in plant biology. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 222.
50-353NEUROBIOLOGY (3-0). The anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology of nervous systems are studied; the human nervous system is emphasized. Half of the course is cellular neurobiology and half is organismal neurobiology. Specific topics include resting potentials, action potentials, synapses, neurotransmitters, sensory and motor processing, nerve regeneration, vision, audition, development, and memory/learning. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 232. (Spring)
50-364COMPARATIVE VERTEBRATE MORPHOLOGY (3-3). After a brief consideration of the lower chordates, this course will deal with the functional anatomy of the vertebrates. Although there is some study of vertebrates in natural environments, primary emphasis is on laboratory dissections of preserved specimens. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 232. (Spring)
50-394ENDOCRINOLOGY (3-3). This course undertakes a detailed exposure to the structure and function of the endocrine system. The course emphasizes the biosynthesis, mechanism of action, and homeostatic function of hormones. Topics demonstrate the chemical and physiological principles of hormonal integration with emphasis on humans. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 232 and Chemistry 51-563, or permission of instructor. Chemistry 51-573 is strongly recommended. (Spring)
50-414GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY (3-3). A survey of the biological implications of anthropogenic changes to the geosphere/biosphere, including rising atmospheric CO2, depletion of stratospheric ozone, alterations to the global nitrogen cycle, and global climate change. The course will also include discussion of major biotic changes with a global dimension, including worldwide declines in amphibian populations and shifts in the geographic distributions of species. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 222. Also Environmental Studies 49-414. (Spring)
50-424 ORGAN PHYSIOLOGY (3-3). Processes/functions of organ systems: nervous, muscular, cardiac, circulatory, respiratory, renal, digestive, and endocrine. Human physiology is emphasized. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 232 and Chemistry 51-553, or permission of instructor. (Fall)
50-434ECOLOGY (3-3). This class explores the interactions of organisms with their biotic and abiotic environment. In particular we will look at the influence of nutrients, climate, competition, predation, and symbiotic relationships on individuals, populations and communities. This course includes a mandatory weekend field trip. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 222. Mathematics 52-113 is recommended. Also Environmental Studies 49-434. (Spring)
50-444INVERTEBRATE ECOLOGY (3-3). This class will explore the amazing diversity found across marine, terrestrial, and aquatic habitats. The lecture component will involve taxonomic descriptors of different groups but will more specifically focus on the ecology of these organisms through critical reading of the primary literature. Through the semester we will confront topics that impact many invertebrates, such as exotic species, habitat degradation, chemical communication, predator-prey interactions, and competition. In weekly lab sessions, special emphasis will be placed on conducting experiments, learning to identify organisms, and investigating the role of aquatic insects in ponds and streams through field work. Prerequisite: Biology 50-204 or 222. Biology 50-434 is recommended but not required. (Spring)
50-474CELLULAR PHYSIOLOGY (3-3). The general functions of eukaryotic cells are studied primarily in animal cells. Topics include transcription, translation, protein functions, cell motility, secretion and endocytosis, cell signalling, and cell cycling. Laboratory experiments teach techniques and concepts of cellular physiology. Prerequisites: Biology 50-204 or 232 and Chemistry 51-563. (Spring)
50-484MICROBIOLOGY (3-3). An introduction to the study of microbes. The course is not strictly a bacteriology course, for some attention will be given to fungi and viruses. The course includes microbial cell structure and function, growth, metabolism, and genetics. Microbial diversity is a recurring theme throughout the course. The course includes a weekly laboratory session. Prerequisites: Biology 50-204 or 232 and Chemistry 51-553/551, or permission of instructor. (Fall)
50-571 GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY I LAB (0-4). Must be taken concurrently with Biology 50-573. See Chemistry 51-571.
50-573 GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY I (3-0). Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-563/561. See Chemistry 51-573.
50-581 GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY II LAB (0-4). Prerequisites: Concurrent or past enrollment in Biology 50-583 or Chemistry 51-583. See Chemistry 51-581.
50-583GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY II (3-0). Prerequisites: Biology 50-573/571or Chemistry 51-573/571. See Chemistry 51-583.
50-864FUNDAMENTALS OF IMMUNOLOGY (3-3). An introduction to the immune system as studied in mammals. Emphasis is placed on acquired immunity, specifically as it pertains to the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. The course deals with the cellular and biochemical mechanisms involved in the education and regulation of both the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Prerequisites: Biology 50-474 and/or Chemistry 51-573/571 or permission of instructor.
50-874 MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (3-3). This course focuses on the molecular aspects of genetic systems in prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and viruses. Topics include: molecular methods and their applications, cell cycle control, gene expression, regulation of gene expression, gene arrangement, DNA mutagenesis and repair, mobile genetic elements, and viral replication. Reading and critiquing primary journal articles will be emphasized. A weekly laboratory session is required and will include independent projects using molecular biology techniques. Prerequisites: Biology 50-204 or 232 and Chemistry 51-583.
50-931 CAPSTONE SEMINAR (1-0). This course fulfills the capstone requirement in biology. The topic varies with the professor leading it. Each course involves the reading and presenting of the primary literature and is highly discussion-based. Available to graduating seniors only. (Fall and Spring)

50-001, 002, 003, 004SELECTED TOPICS. May be repeated with change in topic.
50-301, 302, 303, 304SELECTED TOPICS. May be repeated with change in topic.
50-941, 942, 943 ACADEMIC INTERNSHIP. Must be taken Pass/D/F. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
50-951, 952, 953, 954 INDEPENDENT STUDY. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor and a completed course description report. May be repeated with changed content.
50-971, 972, 973 INTRODUCTION TO INDEPENDENT RESEARCH. Credit may vary from one to six semester hours depending upon the nature of the problem. Students should make arrangements with a faculty member in the Biology Department prior to enrolling in this course. In addition to their independent research, students will be required to meet every other week as a group. Students participating in this course will also be required to present the results of their research in an end-of-the-semester research poster session. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor and a completed course description report. May be repeated with changed content.
50-983 HONORS. By invitation only.