This page outlines the 2024-25 degree requirements for the B.S. in Biological Sciences. This page is not an official list of degree requirements. Adjustments may be required due to curriculum changes. Current students should refer to their interactive degree audit.
Please contact our academic advisor, Travis, if you have any questions or wish to review your academic plan.
Major Requirements
Required Biology Courses
Introduction to fields and career opportunities in the biological sciences.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Human Biology, Biological Sciences, Computational Biology; Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
A discussion of the principles of ecology and organismal biology, using the theme of physiological ecology and adaptations. This course will emphasize biodiversity, scientific method, experimental design, and written and oral presentation of results.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
Covers principles of ecology and organismal biology, using the theme of physiological ecology and adaptations. This course will emphasize biodiversity, scientific method, experimental design, and written and oral presentation of results.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): BL 1100
Discussion of the major principles by which life is organized. Topics include scientific methods, biological chemistry, cell structure and organization, multicellular organization, diversity of organisms, energetics and photosynthesis, cellular reproduction genetics, gene structure and expression, and recombinant DNA.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
Topics include scientific methods, biological chemistry, cell structure and organization, multicellular organization, diversity of organisms, energetics and photosynthesis, cellular reproduction genetics, gene structure and expression, and recombinant DNA.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): BL 1200
A study of classical and molecular genetics. Topics include one- and two-locus genetics, recombination, gene structure, regulation and function, quantitative and population genetics, and genetic engineering. Covers both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or BE 2400 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
A laboratory to complement BL2200. Covers applications of techniques used in genetics, including Mendelian analysis, tetrad analysis, karyotyping, DNA and protein electrophoresis, DNA and plasmid purification, transformation and restriction mapping, and PCR amplification of DNA.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200(C)
This course will provide an understanding of cell structure and function with emphasis on eukaryotic cells. Topics include macromolecules, membranes, organelles, cytoskeleton, division, differentiation, cell-cell interactions, intracellular trafficking, protein sorting, cell signaling, and motility.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Study of the pattern and processes of organic evolution and their relation to ecological relationships at the organism, population, community, and ecosystem levels.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1010 or BL 1040 or (BL 1100 and BL 1110) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Students will develop and improve their skill level in searching for scientific literature, incorporating that into scientific writing, evaluating and incorporating the work of others, and develop critique skills for review of scientific source material and basic statistical methods.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Human Biology, Biological Sciences, Computational Biology; May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
Choose one course (or set) with a lab option
Comprehensive introductory course in vertebrate anatomy and physiology with emphasis on the human body. Interrelates structure with function in regard to maintaining homeostasis and normal functioning of the body. Covers the integument, skeletal system, muscles, the nervous system, and special senses.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
The laboratory to accompany BL2010. Examines embryology, muscle and skeletal anatomy, and neuroanatomy. Explores the physiology of the nervous system, including vision and reflexes and muscle physiology. A student-designed lab project is used to teach experimental design.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2010(C)
Covers structure, function, reproduction, and classification of plants and algae, relating these current ecological, agricultural, or other human issues.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
Biology of animals from first organized multi-cell through Hominids; the origin and evolution of the metazoa phyla, their physiology, development, ecology, behavior, natural history, and systematics.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
Choose one course
Introduction to the general principles and techniques involved in the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Topics include cell structure and function, growth, metabolism, biodiversity, and interaction. Not open to students with credit in BL3310.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
General principles of microbiology, focusing on both the use and control of microorganisms. Topics include microbial structure, function, growth, metabolism, and diversity, as well as microbial involvement in water and waste treatment, waterborne diseases, and pollution control. Not open to students with credit in BL3210.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1200 or BL 1400 or BL 1020 or BL 1040 or BL 3080
Choose one course
Structure, biochemical properties, and function of important biomolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. Introduces enzyme biochemistry (structure, function, catalysis, kinetics, and inhibition).
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): (BL 1020 or BL 1040 or BE 2400) or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410) and (CH 2410 or CH 2420)
A comprehensive investigation of biomolecules including proteins, nucleic acids, and enzymes to understand their roles in structural, metabolic, developmental pathways. This course emphasizes biochemistry as it relates to human development, physiology, and disease.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc
- Pre-Requisite(s): (BL 1200 or BL 1400 or BE 2400) and (CH 2410 or CH 2430)
Required Chemistry Courses
Introduces the foundations of chemistry, including electronic structure of atoms and molecules, intermolecular forces, states of matter, chemical reactions, organic chemistry, chemical equilibria, kinetics, and acid-base chemistry. Includes laboratory component that emphasizes lecture components.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1151
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1031(C) or MA 1032(C) or MA 1120(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1135(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 56 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 22 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 540
Laboratory to accompany CH1150.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1150
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1031(C) or MA 1032(C) or MA 1120(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1135(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 56 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 22 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 540
A continuation of CH 1150. Introduces more complex concepts in chemistry, including kinetics, chemical equilibria, acid-base equilibria, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and chemical analysis. Additional topics may include chemistry of the metals and non-metals, biochemical systems, and nuclear chemistry. Includes laboratory component that emphasizes lecture concepts.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1161
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1112 or (CH 1150 and CH 1151)
Laboratory to accompany CH1160.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1160
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1112 or (CH 1150 and CH 1151)
A study of the chemistry of carbon compounds. Review of hybrid orbitals, covalent bonding, and resonance. Introduction to nomenclature, stereochemistry, mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy, functional group chemistry based on reaction mechanisms, and multi-step synthesis.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1122 or (CH 1160 and CH 1161)
Laboratory to accompany CH2410.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): (CH 2410(C) or CH 2430(C)) and CH 1122 or (CH 1160 and CH 1161)
Covers more functional group chemistry based on reaction mechanisms; more involved multi-step synthesis; introduction to nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; introduction to carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids; and topics of specialized interest.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 2410
Laboratory to accompany CH2420.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-4)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 2411 and (CH 2420(C) or CH 2440(C))
Required Math Courses
Topics include limits, continuity of functions, transcendental functions, derivatives, integrals, and applications of the derivative in the fields of economics, biological sciences, and social sciences. Credit applicable only to those curricula specifying this course.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-4-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1032 or MA 1031 or MA 1120 or ALEKS Math Placement >= 76 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 26 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 610
Introduction to the design and analysis of statistical studies in the health and life sciences. Topics include study design, descriptive and graphical methods, probability, inference on means, categorical data analysis, and linear regression.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1135 or MA 1160 or MA 1161 or MA 1121 or MA 2160(C) or MA 3160(C)
Required Physics Courses
An overview of basic principles of kinematics, dynamics, elasticity, fluids, heat, thermodynamics, mechanical waves, and interference and diffraction of mechanical waves.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Applied Physics, Physics, Surveying Engineering, Computer Network & System Admn, Electrical Eng Tech, General Technology, Mechanical Engineering Tech, Information Technology, Construction Management
- Co-Requisite(s): PH 1111
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1031 or MA 1032 or MA 1120 or MA 1135(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 76 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 26 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 610
Experiments covering kinematics, forces, conservation of momentum and energy, waves, and thermodynamics are explored through guided construction. The course provides inquiry-based laboratory experiences for concepts explored in PH1110.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Applied Physics, Physics, Surveying Engineering, Computer Network & System Admn, Electrical Eng Tech, General Technology, Mechanical Engineering Tech, Information Technology, Construction Management
- Co-Requisite(s): PH 1110
An overview of basic principles of static and dynamic electricity and magnetism, electromagnetic waves, reflection and refraction of light, interference and diffraction of light, special theory of relativity, wave theory of matter, particle theory of electromagnetic waves, theory of the atom, the nucleus, and elementary particles.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Applied Physics, Physics, Surveying Engineering, Computer Network & System Admn, Electrical Eng Tech, General Technology, Mechanical Engineering Tech, Information Technology, Construction Management
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1200(C) and (PH 1110 or PH 1100)
Experiments covering Coulomb's law, electric and magnetic fields, circuits, induction, and geometric optics are explored through guided construction. The course emphasizes understanding physical concepts through inquiry and the scientific method.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1100 or PH 1111 or PH 1141 or PH 1161
Major Electives
Choose a minimum of 6 credits in upper-level Biology (BL) courses at the 3000-level or above.
A course for students interested in health careers or human biology. This course will cover advanced topics in the human circulatory, digestive, endocrine, integumentary, lymphatic, muscular, nervous, renal, reproductive, respiratory, and skeletal systems.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, in odd years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020
The course will provide students with greater understanding of the interaction between spirituality and healthcare. Students will be encouraged to explore and define their own spirituaity, identify and consider the spirituality of others, and explore the interaction between spirituality, health, illness, and adversity.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
Study of pathology, identification, isolation and antimicrobic susceptibility testing of clinically important bacteria.
- Credits: 5.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-5)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3210
Introduction to Genomics. Genome organization, mapping and characterization from humans and related organisms. Topics include hierarchical arrangement of genes, genome mapping, molecular markers of physical genome maps, genome sequencing, comparative genomics, analysis of important human genes and their products, and ethical and legal aspects of genomics.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 or FW 3320
Investigates the immune defense system that has evolved to protect vertebrates from invading pathogens and cancer. Covers general principals of innate and acquired immunity, immunodeficiency and autoimmune diseases, as well as transplantation immunology, and the role of apoptosis in lymphocyte maturation.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biological Sciences, Computational Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Human Biology, Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc, Biochem & Molec Biology-Chem, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Chemistry; May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or BL 2020 or BE 2400 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Laboratory techniques basic to biochemistry and molecular biology with emphasis on protein isolation, characterization and kinetics.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3020(C) or CH 4710(C) or BL 3025(C)
Introduction to health issues, such as: infectious diseases, obesity, mental health, healthcare disparities, health insurance, drug addiction, and vaccines. Students will analyze health issues from a diverse cultural, ethical, social, and global perspective.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): UN 1015 and (UN 1025 or Modern Language - 3000 level or higher)
Dynamic aspects of living systems. Broad exposure to cellular metabolic pathways, intermediary metabolism and its regulation and bioenergetics.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3020
Molecular biology of gene structure, expression and regulation. Also topics covering various molecular techniques and applications of these techniques and biotechnology.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3020 or CH 4710 or BL 3025
This is an advanced course that looks at the study of ecology and evolutionary biology at the community level: how populations interact with the abiotic environment and each other to determine patterns of diversity, distribution, and abundance of plants and animals.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in odd years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3490
Current concepts in light and electron microscopy and scanning probe techniques. Theory and practice of fluorescence (including confocal and multi-photon), atomic force, scanning and transmission electron, and video microscopy as applied to biological specimens with emphasis on sample preparation. Half semester course.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-4-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in even years
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
An introduction to the fundamentals of epigenetic control that is not encoded by genomic DNA sequences of an organism. Topics include major regulatory mechanisms including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) mediated gene regulation.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: On Demand
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3300 or BL 4030
Course will cover abnormal function (physiology) and investigate the signs and symptoms of major diseases in humans. Extension of Anatomy & Physiology by working through the systems of the human body. Course will include a clinical focus and case-study approach.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, in even years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2010 and BL 2020
Hands-on training in fluorescence microscopy and video microscopy. Students prepare biological specimens of their choice for observation. Half semester course.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-6)
- Semesters Offered: On Demand
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 4035
Introduction to the range of anthropogenic pollutants released into the environment. Concepts of bioaccumulation, biomagnification and environmental persistence, modes of toxicity and detoxification, transport and fate in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Toxic equivalent factors and quotients, regulatory guidelines and practices.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or BL 1040 or (BL 1400 and BL 1410) and CH 1150 and CH 1160
Toxicology of major environmental pollutants, their dose-response relationships and fundamentals of environmental remediation. Topics include physical, chemical, and biological remediation methods and effect of environmental toxins on biological systems. Laboratory will involve the application of chemical and biological remediation techniques.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in odd years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Physiology and biochemistry of plants. Emphasizes photosynthesis, plant hormones, water and nutrient relations, and light-regulated development.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, in odd years
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2160 and CH 2420
Interactions between plants and microorganisms in the environment. Topics include microbial virulence, signaling, gene expression, beneficial interactions and disease resistance in plants. Laboratory will focus on plant biochemical and microbiological methods as they relate to environmental problems.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in even years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200
Structure and function of microorganisms, with emphasis on mechanisms for responding to changing environmental and nutritional conditions.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in even years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3210 or BL 3310
Using a problem-based learning approach, course examines the physiology of the human body. In-class case-study analyses provide in-depth learning about the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems and their relationship with other organ systems. Promotes development of problem-solving skills.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020
Interactions between microorganisms and between microorganisms and the environment with focus on the processes mediated by and controls on microbial life, and the methods used in the rapidly evolving field of microbial ecology. Emphasis on primary literature and discussion.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in even years
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3210 or BL 3310 or BL 3490
The course will cover developmental biology topics from gametogenesis over fertilization, embryonic development to postembryonic development, including aging. Developmental genetics and the evolution of development (evo-devo) are an important component of this course.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and (BL 3012(C) or BL 4370(C))
Fishes and their habitat, native and exotic fishes of the Great Lakes region, and ocean fishery resources will be examined. Basic topics in Ichthyology and fish ecology, evolution, genetics, reproduction strategies and identification of early life stages, fish community structure, food webs and dynamics. Laboratory exercises on sampling, identification and classification of fishes and basic fish anatomy and discussion of scientific papers relevant to the subject material.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
The study of biological, physical, and chemical processes of freshwater eco systems using a watershed perspective, with emphasis on lakes.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, in even years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
This course is designed for students focusing their studies in ecology and evolutionary biology and seeking advanced understanding of pattern, science, and theory of ecological systems. Topics will range from individuals to communities and landscapes. Lectures and discussions will be guided by published literature.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-1-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, in even years
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3003 and BL 3490
Study of processes in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, including energy flow, ecosystem production, and nutrient cycling. We will explore these processes through a historical overview of influential research programs and regional to global case studies.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: On Demand
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3490 and CH 1122 or (CH 1160 and CH 1161)
An overview of ocean environments and marine life. Topics include: trophic level interactions, nutrient cycling, ecology of plankton, invertebrates, fish, mammal and bird resources, and human influences on marine ecosystems. Will cover basic water chemistry and light in oceans.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1010 or (BL 1100 and BL 1110) or BL 1040 or (BL 1400 and BL 1410) or BL 3080
Emphasis on characteristic genetic, molecular, and cellular changes leading to cancer. Topics will include the role of tumor viruses, oncogenes, tumor suppressors, immortalization, apoptosis, and angiogenesis in cancer initiation and/or progression. Consideration of current therapies and future directions for treatment.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3012 or BL 4370 or BE 2400
Capstone
Assessment of experiential learning and preparation for post-graduate work, professional training, or graduate school.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Senior
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3782
Experiential Learning Requirement
Choose at least 5 credits from the following options:
Students conduct empirical, theoretical, or computational research under the direction of a faculty member. The work culminates in a written report, product, or presentation resulting from work performed. Specifics to be agreed upon between faculty mentor and student.
- Credits: variable to 9.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
Students conduct empirical, theoretical, or computational research in biochemistry under the direction of a faculty member. The work culminates in a written report, product, or presentation resulting from the work performed. Specifics to be agreed upon between faculty mentor and student.
- Credits: variable to 6.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
Practical and didactic internship experience directly related to student's course of study in biochemistry and molecular biology, bioinformatics, biological sciences, or ecology. Students conduct work at an approved internship site in addition to academic assignments that encourage them to connect their professional and academic experience.
- Credits: variable to 9.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
Development of teaching skills through assisting in the instruction of a section of biological sciences laboratory. Students gain experience in leadership, group work, organization skills, laboratory preparation, and laboratory instruction.
- Credits: variable to 4.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
In this course students will gain intensive field experience in Biological Sciences emphasizing immersion and observation in novel field settings. Students in this course will visit different ecosystems during day and weekend trips that explore aspects of ecology, evolution, community dynamics and human impacts on ecosystems.
- Credits: variable to 9.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: On Demand
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
Survey of tropical island biology presented on campus and in the Bahamas over spring break. Topics include geological and societal history, and the biology and ecology of terrestrial, intertidal, and coral reef communities. Special course fees. Requires instructor approval to register.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
This course offers hands-on training in genome editing design and implementation. Objectives will include knockout, tagging, and targeted mutation of genes in model organisms or cell lines. The history and ethics of genome editing will be discussed.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in odd years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore, Junior
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 or FW 3230
This course is an overview of techniques involved in genomics including hands-on experience in next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, and NGS sequence analysis including de novo assembly, gene annotation, and analysis including comparative genomics, pathway mapping, and core and pan genome analysis.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in odd years
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200
This course is designed as a hands-on experience in eukaryotic genomic experiments involving next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques, including eukaryotic gene annotation, comparative genomics, and gene regulation analyses.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in even years
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and BL 2210
A field intensive course with significant time spent on a research vessel (R/V Agassiz or other) where students will learn the use of a variety of state-of-the-art techniques to characterize biological communities and measure important physical and biological processes.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (4-0-6)
- Semesters Offered: Summer, in odd years
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
Field course combining river and stream ecosystem and food web study with fishes in lake systems. Students will be exposed to research methods used in lakes for comprehensive abiotic and biotic understanding.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Summer, in even years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1010 or (BL 1100 and BL 1110) or BL 1040 or (BL 1400 and BL 1410) or BL 3400
Interdisciplinary teams work as part of an enterprise to address real-world design projects or problems. Third-year students will practice designing approaches to solve problems and develop procedures to achieve specified project objectives.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
Interdisciplinary teams work as part of an enterprise to address real-world design projects or problems. Third-year students practice designing approaches to solve problems and develop procedures to achieve specified project objectives.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
Interdisciplinary teams work as part of an enterprise to address real-world projects or problems of significance to industry, government and communities. Fourth-year students gain experience in defining project objectives and planning strategies to achieve these objectives, and leading teams to accomplish project goals. This course is for students who are not participating in Enterprise to fulfill their capstone requirements.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-6)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Senior
Interdisciplinary teams work as part of an enterprise to address real-world projects or problems of significance to industry, government and communities. Fourth-year students gain experience in defining project objectives and planning strategies to achieve these objectives, and leading teams to accomplish project goals. This course is for students who are not participating in Enterprise to fulfill their capstone requirements.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-6)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Senior
Free Electives
Choose 19-20 free elective credits. Free electives are any class that is 1000-level or higher, but are not co-curricular courses. Consider choosing these credits carefully to earn a minor!
General Education
General Education is an important and required component of every Michigan Tech degree. Students are required to take 12 credits within the core general education courses and 12 credits within humanities, arts, and social sciences. In addition every Michigan Tech student is required to take 3 credits of co-curricular activities; these credits are required for graduating, but not included in the GPA calculations or in the overall credits required for the degree. Read more details about the general education requirements on the Registrar's Office website.