Biology Major
Environmental Science Major
Biology Minor
Wildlife Biology Emphasis
Social Sciences for Health Professionals Concentration
Dentistry
Medicine
Veterinary Medicine
Endorsement in Biology and Environmental Science (6-12)
The Department of Biology and Environmental Science is located in the McKinney Center of Science and Mathematics. The department offers introductory and advanced courses to provide students with broad discipline foundation. The rapid expansion of the biological sciences assures bright futures for well-prepared biologists and environmental scientists.
The biology major has tracks that allow students maximum preparation and flexibility. A minor in biology is recommended for students who want to pair experiences in life science while pursuing another major. The concentration in social sciences for health professionals prepares students for the complex social interactions in all healthcare fields today. In addition, the department offers the wildlife biology emphasis to focus in career preparation. Students also work with faculty mentors via internships, study abroad, field work and summer research opportunities.
The environmental science major is closely tied to studies in biology, and students may double major in biology and environmental science. The environmental science curricula takes advantage of rapidly expanding knowledge in ecology, molecular and cell biology, environmental chemistry and instrumentation to prepare students for the myriad career paths in this area.
Students majoring in biology or environmental science find employment directly after graduation as life science or earth science teachers, laboratory technicians, health professionals, pharmaceutical salespersons, and in environmental professions including the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. With graduate or professional degrees, Bridgewater alumni go on to successful careers as physicians, veterinarians, dentists, foresters, wildlife biologists, research scientists, environmental planners and genetic counselors.
Degree Type Offered: B.S. Major
BIOL-110 Principles of Biology I
Credits: 4 Term Offered: Fall and Spring
Introduction to the biological sciences, covering biological chemistry, cell/tissue structure and function, genetics and microevolution. Intended for biology, health and human sciences, and environmental science majors. Three lectures and one lab per week. Corequisites: MATH-110 or MATH-118 Biology and environmental science majors should take MATH-110. Other students should consult with their advisor about which course to take. FILA general education: natural and physical sciences
BIOL-111 Principles of Biology II
Credits: 4 Term Offered: Spring Only
Introduction to the biological sciences covering macroevolution (systematic, taxonomy, phylogenetics), ecology and biodiversity. Intended for biology and environmental science majors. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite: BIOL-110
BIOL-309 Genetics
Credits: 4 Term Offered: Fall Only
Introduction to both classical, Mendelian inheritance and molecular genetics with one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 or permission of instructor; CHEM-161 recommended
BIOL-430 Evolution
Credits: 3 Term Offered: Spring Only
Examination of the mechanisms of biological evolution including mutation, natural selection, genetic drift, nonrandom mating, the genetic structure of species populations, the origin of new species and DNA evidence regarding relationships among species and higher taxa. Prerequisites: BIOL-309, MATH-130, and senior standing; or permission of instructor Offered online 2020 Summer Session III
CHEM-161 General Chemistry I
Principles of chemistry including stoichiometry, states of matter, atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding, periodicity, and the kinetic molecular theory of gases. Three hours of lecture and one four hour lab per week. Prerequisites: MATH-110 or MATH-115 or MATH-118 FILA general education: natural and physical sciences Credit may not be received for both CHEM-125 and CHEM-161
CHEM-162 General Chemistry II
Principles of chemistry including intermolecular forces, thermodynamics, equilibria, acid-base chemistry, electrochemistry, kinetics, and solubility. Three hours of lecture and one four hour lab per week. Prerequisites: CHEM-161 or permission of instructor
MATH-130 Survey of Calculus
Differential and integral calculus for the student who needs a working knowledge of the subject but does not plan to pursue more advanced study in mathematics. Includes theory and application of limits, derivatives, and integrals. Prerequisite: MATH-120 or satisfactory performance on placement test Credit may not be received for both MATH 130 and MATH 131
or
MATH-131 Calculus I
Credits: 3 Term Offered: Fall and Spring
Study of differential calculus of a single variable. Applications of the derivative are made to curve sketching, max-min problems, and linear approximation, and I'Hopital's Rule. Also included are applications of the Intermediate Value Theorem and Mean Value Theorem. Credit may not be received for both MATH 130 and 131. Prerequisites: MATH-120 or satisfactory performance on placement test
The remaining credits come from the tracks as follows (students choose one track):
Track 1-General Biology
Consists of 17 to 20 credits chosen from the following:
Cell Biology/Physiology (1 course)
BIOL-311 Animal Physiology
In this course we explore comparative animal physiology from an environmental perspective: how do various animals function in strikingly different environments? And how do changes in environments affect the animals' ability to maintain internal homeostasis and survive? Gaining knowledge in this subject will be essential for students with interests in animal health, wildlife and management of environmental resources. Course structure: active learning lectures and applied learning labs with live animals. Development of critical scientific thinking and effective scientific communication are significant components of the course. Credit may be received for one physiology course: BIOL/ENVR-311 or BIOL-314. Prerequisites: BIOL-110, BIOL-111, and MATH-120 (Cross-listed as ENVR-311)
BIOL-314 Human Physiology
Introduction to the physiology of the human body including the physiology of enzymes and membranes, tissue physiology (nervous, muscular), and a detailed survey of the physiology of the major organ systems. Three lectures and one lab per week. Credit may only be received for one course; BIOL 311, BIOL-314 and BIOL-360 Prerequisites: BIOL-111; or BIOL-110 and BIOL-305
BIOL-325 Molecular Biology of the Cell
The molecular basis of cell structure and function. Topics include the chemistry, architecture and analysis of macromolecules, overview of thermodynamics and metabolism, enzymology, genetic processes and controls, recombinant DNA technology, and cell signaling mechanisms. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 and CHEM-161, or permission of instructor
BIOL/ENVR-360 Environmental Physiology
This course will provide a framework for studying how animals function in their native environments at different stages of their life cycles. Its scope is animal physiology blended with environmental science: principles of physiological mechanisms are examined from the perspective of physiological adaptation in a given environmental context, including specific adaptations to environmental extremes. Course structure: active learning lectures and applied learning labs. Development of critical scientific thinking and scientific writing are significant components of the course. Credit may only be received for one course; BIOL 311, BIOL-314 and BIOL-360 Prerequisites: BIOL-110 and BIOL-111, and MATH-120 (Cross-listed as ENVR-360)
Ecology (1 course)
BIOL-350 Ecology
Analysis of the distribution and abundance of organisms, population growth and regulation, and species interactions, as well as community and ecosystem processes. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-111
BIOL/ENVR-401 Environmental Microbiology
Exploration of how microorganisms interact with their environment and the implications of these interactions for humans. Specific topics include antibiotic resistance; biodegradation; biodiversity; biofuels; bioremediation; extreme environments; geochemical cycles; methods for sampling; culture and analysis of environmental microorganisms; microbiology of air, water and soil; environmental pathogens; and microbiological treatment of sewage and water. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-309 or ENVR-320 Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as ENVR-401)
BIOL/ENVR-435 Freshwater Ecology
Introduction to aquatic ecosystems (lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands). Students learn about the major chemical and physical processes that determine the function of freshwater systems. Students are introduced to the major groups of aquatic organisms (algae, vascular plants, invertebrates, fish and amphibians). Strong emphasis on the impacts that humans have on freshwater systems. The lab introduces the basic skills necessary for the study and management of fresh waters. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 or permission of instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as ENVR-435)
Organismal Biology (1 course)
BIOL-316 Ornithology: the Biology of Birds
Explores the anatomy, physiology, ecology and behaviors that have produced an extraordinary biodiversity of bird species. The major groups of modern birds are introduced, and their origin and ecology are examined. Students learn to recognize local species in the field and examine them in the lab using the ornithology collections. Suitable for both biology majors and non-majors. Prerequisites: BIOL-100 or BIOL-110 Offered alternate years
BIOL-320 Developmental Biology
Credits: 3 Term Offered: May Term
Introduction to developmental biology with a focus on its fundamental aspects: embryogenesis, growth, cellular differentiation and morphogenesis. The study of theory is supplemented with hands-on observations of early development in animal embryos (salamander and/or mouse, or other animals). We also consider the impact of recent advances in developmental biology on our society by exploring the ethical, moral, and religious implications, as well as the legal issues that inevitably arise from work in this field. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 and one additional BIOL course numbered 200 or above Offered alternate years
BIOL-321 Herpetology
An introduction to the study of amphibians and reptiles. Lectures will focus on the origin and evolution of amphibians and reptiles, and on their biology, ecology and conservation. Lab will emphasize taxonomy, anatomy, species identification, and common field techniques used to study these groups. Prerequisite: BIOL-111 Offered alternate years
BIOL-322 Mammalogy
A comprehensive survey of mammals. Lectures will focus on phylogenetics, the origin and evolution of mammals and their biology, ecology and conservation. Lab will emphasize taxonomy, species identification and common field techniques used to study mammals. Prerequisite: BIOL-111 Offered alternate years
BIOL-340 Botany
A comprehensive survey of the plant kingdom that will include topics ranging from plant anatomy, physiology, diversity and ecology. Students interested in ecology, forestry and wildlife biology will find this course particularly useful. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite: BIOL-111 Offered alternate years
BIOL-400 Microbiology
Introductory survey of microbiology with an emphasis on bacteriology. The lecture component covers the structure, nutrition, metabolism, and genetics of microbes, medical microbiology, diagnostic techniques, microbial ecology, and industrial microbiology. The lab component includes biological safety, microscopy, culture techniques, media, staining, identification of unknown bacteria and an independent research project. Two lectures and two labs per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-309 or permission of instructor; BIOL-325 recommended
BIOL-403 Pathogenic Microbiology
Exploration of major human pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and helminths. Topics include host-parasite interactions, host defenses, pathogenic mechanisms, control of microorganisms, diagnosis and identification of infectious agents, antibiotic therapy, disease transmission and epidemiology. Class activities include discussion of medical case studies, literature analysis, identification of unknowns, and field trips. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite: BIOL-309 or permission of instructor; BIOL-325 and BIOL-400 strongly recommended
BIOL-420 Plant Taxonomy
Broad survey of the diversity and classification of vascular plants. Students will learn to recognize common and important plant families as well as learn to identify local taxa. Traditional and modern methods of taxonomy and systematics are presented. Prerequisite: BIOL-111; BIOL-430 recommended Offered alternate years
BIOL/ENVR-433 Biology & Management of Fishes
Survey of diversity of fish (with an emphasis on freshwater fish of North America). Topics include taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, behavior, and ecology. Special emphasis on management of fish populations and diversity in the face of environmental threats including pollution, habitat alteration, overharvest, and invasive species. Lab includes basic ecology and behavior but focuses heavily on common fisheries' techniques. Prerequisites: BIOL/ENVR-301 or BIOL-350 or permission of instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as ENVR-433)
BIOL-440 Animal Behavior
Introduction to the theoretical framework and the methodology of animal behavior research. Students examine the causation, development, current function, and evolutionary history of behavior of invertebrates and vertebrates. Integrates concepts and principles from multiple disciplines to understand behaviors such as foraging and predation, mating systems, communication, parental care, social hierarchies, and territoriality. Students also review the history of the field of animal behavior and the contributions that animal behavior research can make to applied disciplines such as environmental conservation, biomedical research, and human psychology. Prerequisites: Any one of the following: BIOL-311, BIOL-314, or BIOL-350, PSY-210, or permission of the instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as ENVR-440)
And 2 elective BIOL courses numbered 300 or higher
Track 2-Pre-Health Sciences
Consists of 18 to 20 credits chosen from the following:
Cell Biology (1 course)
Physiology (1 course)
Pre-Health (1 elective)
BIOL-305 Introduction to Human Anatomy
Introduction to the structure and function of the human body, examining the skeletal, muscular, circulatory, nervous, digestive, respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems. Lecture focuses on topics of physiology/function, histology, and their relation to anatomical structure, while the lab focuses on descriptive anatomy. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-110, or permission of instructor
BIOL-308 Domestic Animal Nutrition
Introduction to nutrition and digestion in domestic animals, designed primarily for students in the pre-veterinary program. Topics include major nutrient classes and their functions in the body, feed classification and chemical analysis, feed processing, and nutrient requirements. Prerequisite: BIOL-111
BIOL-410 Immunology
Development of immune responses through humoral and cell-mediated mechanisms transplantation and tumor immunology, hypersensitivity reactions, autoimmunity, and serology. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-325 or permission of instructor Offered alternate years
BIOL-412 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
Comparative study of the major organ systems in vertebrate animals. Lectures examine topics such as the origin and adaptive evolution of vertebrate anatomy and the systematic relationships between vertebrate groups. The lab provides a detailed examination of vertebrate anatomy. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite: BIOL-111 Offered alternate years
BCHM-355 Biochemistry I
Credits: 3 Term Offered: Fall Only
Introduction to the major biomolecular compound classes, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, along with a survey of enzyme kinetics and the overall regulation of key metabolic pathways. Three lectures per week. Prerequisite: CHEM-250 or CHEM-306/310
-or-
BCHM-356 Biochemistry I With Lab
Introduction to the major biomolecular compound classes, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, along with a survey of enzyme kinetics and the overall regulation of key metabolic pathways. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite: CHEM-250 or CHEM-306/310
BCHM-455 Biochemistry II
A continuation of the topics covered in Biochemistry I, with special attention paid to the classic chemical reactions at work in biological systems. The intersection of biochemical principles with such applications as drug discovery and computational modeling will be emphasized as a mechanism for understanding the fundamental relationship between structure and function. Three lectures per week. Prerequisite: BCHM-355 or BCHM-356
Track 3-Biology Secondary Education
This track is for students interested in pursuing licensure in biology education. Interested students should also see the Teacher Education Program section of the catalog for education curriculum requirements.
Consists of 20 credits chosen from the following:
Organic Chemistry (1 course)
CHEM-250 Fundamental Organic Chemistry
Overview of the functional groups and reactivity of organic molecules using biological examples. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour lab per week. Prerequisites: CHEM-125 or CHEM-162 Credit may not be received for both CHEM-250 and CHEM-305
CHEM-305 Organic Chemistry I
Structure, nomenclature, and properties of organic molecules. Three hours of lecture and one four-hour lab per week. Prerequisites: CHEM-162 or permission of instructor Credit may not be received for both CHEM-250 and 305
Earth Science (1 course)
CHEM-102 Earth and its Environment
The history of the earth and its place in the universe, geologic processes, environmental problems and weather. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour lab per week. Field trips may be taken during lab. Corequisites: MATH-110, MATH-115 or MATH-118 FILA general education: natural and physical sciences
GEOL-130 Physical Geology
This course is an overview of the history of the earth and its structure, earth materials, the rock cycle, internal processes (the tectonic cycle, volcanoes, and earthquakes), external processes (the hydrologic cycle, weathering, and soils), and environmental concerns (groundwater, surface water, pollution, and remediation) with fairly detailed coverage of the processes. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour lab per week. Field trips may be taken during lab. Corequisites: MATH-110, MATH-115 or MATH-118 FILA general education: natural and physical sciences
Physics (1 course)
PHYS-125 Concepts of Physics
An introduction to the basic concepts of physics emphasizing practical applications of physical laws to common occurrences. Physical descriptions are presented on how things move, the behavior of sound and light, uses of electricity and magnetism, and the behavior of fundamental particles. Three hours in class and two hours in laboratory per week. Prerequisites: MATH-110 or MATH-115 or MATH-118 FILA general education: natural and physical sciences
PHYS-218 College Physics I
An algebra-based exploration of the concepts of motion, forces, energy, waves, heat, electricity, magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Three hours in class, one hour in recitation and two hours in lab per week. Prerequisite: MATH-120
PHYS-221 General Physics I
During the first term: Kinematics, Newton's laws of motion, conservation laws, rotational motion, periodic motion, and fluid mechanics. During the second term: Thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, optics and modern physics. A combination of lectures and learning by inquiry are employed. Computers are used for data acquisition, data analysis, and mathematical modeling. Three hours in class, one hour in recitation and two hours in lab per week. Prerequisite: MATH-130 or MATH-132 or concurrent enrollment in MATH-131, MATH-132 respectively.
For the elective BIOL or ENVR courses in the tracks, only 3 credits may be chosen from BIOL or ENVR-460, 490, 491 or 499, and Internship (BIOL or ENVR-480X) cannot be used to meet this requirement. Students wishing to double major in biology and environmental science or in chemistry and environmental science may not overlap or double count the electives selected on the environmental science plan of major to the other major.
MATH-140 Introduction to Statistics
Basic descriptive statistics, probability, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression. Statistical computer software is used to analyze data. Prerequisites: MATH-118, MATH-110, MATH-115, or satisfactory performance on placement test
BIOL-330 Biostatistics
Introduction to fundamental statistical methods for biology students. Topics include descriptive statistics, experimental design and hypothesis testing. Material includes basic parametric and non-parametric statistical methods preparing students to analyze experiments testing multiple factors and multiple treatment groups. Two lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 and MATH-110 Offered alternate years
ENVR-101 Introduction to Environmental Sciences
Introduces basic biological concepts and applies them to help students understand the causes and solutions of environmental problems. Addresses a wide variety of environmental issues including biodiversity loss, the effects of pollution on organisms and ecosystems, and global climate change. Special emphasis given to help students understand how scientific knowledge is developed and scientific information can be found, interpreted and applied by society. Three lectures and one laboratory per week. Prerequisite or Corequisite: MATH-110, MATH-115 or MATH-118 FILA general education: natural and physical sciences
ENVR/BIOL-301 Principles of Environmental Science
An exploration of basic biological, chemical, geological, and physical processes at work on the earth, its lifeforms, and its natural resources. The extent of human impact and the need for global awareness will be emphasized, along with the need for application of rapidly expanding knowledge and technology toward solution of environmental problems. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 or ENVR-101, or permission of instructor (Cross-listed as BIOL-301)
ENVR-270 Chemistry of the Environment
This course is designed to introduce students to the chemical principles underlying environmental issues, scientific literacy pertinent to the environment and scientific articles, and examine the implications of environmental policy. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: CHEM-125 or CHEM-162
ENVR-320 Analytical Environmental Chemistry
The chemistry and quantitative aspects of environmentally important cycles (C, N, O, P, S) in the context of the atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere. Major environmental issues are discussed such as acid rain, sewage treatment, ozone destruction, anthropogenic climate change, air pollution and eutrophication. Laboratories involve sampling, quantitative detection and data analysis. Three hours of lecture and one four-hour lab per week. Prerequisites: CHEM-162 Alternate years: offered 2019-2020
The remaining 9?12 credits must come from three additional ENVR, BIOL, or CHEM courses numbered above 300 from the following list:
BIOL-335 Field Botany
Intense field-based course that introduces students to the identification of plants in the field. The focus will be on the vascular flora of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding mountain areas with trips to other parts of Virginia possible. Plant collection and specimen preservation are also included. Prerequisites: BIOL-111
BIOL/ENVR-365 Field Biology & Natural History
Credits: 4 Term Offered: Summer
Field-based course providing a broad overview of techniques and concepts involved in field biology (especially ecology) including basic scientific method and a variety of sampling techniques. Course content also has a strong emphasis on basic natural history as students learn about and experience a wide variety of organisms (e.g. plant, fungi, insects, fish, amphibians, and mammals), ecosystems (e.g. forests, grasslands, wetlands, ponds, and streams) and ecological interactions. Students will also discuss techniques for interpreting/teaching these biological concepts to others. Prerequisite: BIOL-111, or permission of instructor (Cross-listed as ENVR-356)
BIOL-422 Biogeography
Introduces the current and historical distributions of organisms in relation to all aspects of geography including climate, altitude, latitude, soils, etc. and how those distributions have changed over time. Combines information from physiology, ecology, and evolution. Field trips taken to illustrate local biogeographic patterns. Prerequisites: BIOL-111; BIOL-350 recommended Offered alternate years
ENVR-305 Natural Resource & Environmental Law
This course will provide an overview of federal and state laws that are aimed at the conservation of natural resources and/or protection of environmental quality. Major laws that will be covered include the National Environmental Protection Act, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act and others. Speakers from natural resource/environmental agencies such as the Va. Department of Environmental Quality, Va. Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and U.S. Forest Service will provide practical insights into the application and implementation of environmental policy. Alternate years: offered 2020-2021 Prerequisites: BIOL-100, 101 or 110
ENVR/BIOL-312W Wildlife Ecology and Management
Explores the ecology and management of wildlife with an emphasis on North American mammals and birds. Topics include habitat quality, forestry, nutrition, disease, population dynamics and diversity. Also explores human dimensions in the North American stakeholder model of wildlife management. Lab emphasizes field techniques. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW, ENG-110 and BIOL 111 or permission of instructor FILA general education: writing intensive Alternate years: offered 2020-2021 (Cross-listed as BIOL-312W)
ENVR/CHEM-320 Analytical Environmental Chemistry
ENVR-330X Introduction to Geographical Information Systems
An introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS). GIS is a computerized system that allows users to collect, store, visualize and analyze locational/geospatial data. Through service-based learning experiences, students learn basic cartographic concepts and the use of common GIS software programs. The course focuses on environmental and biological applications of GIS while the technology also has many applications in earth sciences, urban planning, business, etc. Prerequisite: MATH-120 or permission of instructor FILA general education: experiential learning
ENVR/BIOL-401 Environmental Microbiology
An exploration of how microorganisms interact with their environment and the implications of these interactions for humans. Specific topics will include: antibiotic resistance, biodegradation, biodiversity, biofuels, bioremediation, extreme environments, geochemical cycles, methods for sampling, culture, and analysis of environmental microorganisms, microbiology of air, water, and soil; environmental pathogens; and microbiological treatment of sewage and water. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-309 or ENVR/CHEM-320 Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as BIOL-401)
ENVR/BIOL-402 Conservation Biology
Survey of the methods used by the public and private sectors to manage our environment and natural resources. The primary emphasis will be on restoration ecology and conservation biology. Other topics that will be addressed will include environmental engineering (e.g. green chemistry and design of pollution control devices), economic considerations in conservation (e.g. conservation land easements and ecotourism), and government regulation. The lab will provide students with experience applying standard methods of monitoring biological resources. The lab will also provide an opportunity for students to hear talks from environmental experts and to travel to local sites where management activities are occurring. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 or permission of the instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as BIOL-402)
ENVR/BIOL-433 Biology & Management of Fishes
A survey of diversity of fish (with an emphasis on freshwater fish of North America). Topics will include taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, behavior, and ecology. There will be special emphasis on management of fish populations and diversity in the face of environmental threats including pollution, habitat alteration, overharvest and invasive species. Lab will include basic ecology and behavior but will focus heavily on common fisheries' techniques. Prerequisite: ENVR/BIOL-301 or BIOL-350 or permission of the instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as BIOL-433)
ENVR/BIOL-435 Freshwater Ecology
An introduction to aquatic ecosystems (lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands). Students will learn about the major chemical and physical processes that determine the function of freshwater systems. Students will be introduced to the major groups of aquatic organisms (algae, vascular plants, invertebrates and fish). Includes strong emphasis on the impacts that humans have on freshwater systems. The lab will introduce the basic skills necessary for the study and management of fresh waters. Prerequisite: BIOL-111 or permission of the instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as BIOL-435)
GEOL-330 Soil and Hydrogeology
This course is a study of the environment on the Earth's surface, the boundary between the solid and liquid, and interactions between rock and water. This will include weathering and the formation of soil, and the flow of water at the surface and below ground level. Lab activities will include sampling and analysis of soil, surface water, and groundwater. Prerequisite: ENVR-301 Alternate years: offered 2020-2021
Three credits may be used from ENVR 490, ENVR 491, or ENVR 499 as electives while Internship (480X) cannot be used. Students wishing to double major in biology and environmental science or in chemistry and environmental science may not overlap or double count the electives selected in the environmental science plan of major to the other major.
Degree Type Offered: Minor
Consists of 21-24 credit hours including the following courses:
And 3 additional 300-400 level BIOL elective courses
For the elective BIOL courses, only 3 credits may be chosen from BIOL-460, BIOL-490, BIOL-491 or BIOL-499, and Internship (BIOL-480X) cannot be used to meet this requirement.
Degree Type Offered: Emphasis
Wildlife Management and Techniques
Take one course:
BIOL/ENVR-312W Wildlife Ecology and Management
Explores the ecology and management of wildlife with an emphasis on North American mammals and birds. Topics include habitat quality, forestry, nutrition, disease, population dynamics and diversity. Also explores human dimensions in the North American stakeholder model of wildlife management. Lab emphasizes field techniques. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW; ENG-110 and BIOL-111 or permission of instructor Alternate years offered: 2020-2021 FILA general education: writing intensive (Cross-listed as ENVR-312W)
BIOL/ENVR-402 Conservation Biology
Survey of the methods used by the public and private sectors to manage the environment and natural resources. Primary emphasis on restoration ecology and conservation biology. Other topics addressed include environmental engineering (e.g. green chemistry and design of pollution control devices), economic considerations in conservation (e.g. conservation land easements and ecotourism), and government regulation. The lab provides students with experience applying standard methods of monitoring biological resources. The lab also provides an opportunity for students to hear talks from environmental experts and to travel to local sites where management activities are occurring. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 or permission of instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as ENVR-402)
Molecules, Anatomy and Physiology
Botany
Zoology/Organisms
Take two courses:
Policy/Ethics
PHIL-235E Bioethics
Confronts a number of modern scientific and ethical problems including abortion, genetic testing, genetically modified plants and animals, stem cells, gene therapy, research on humans, and physician-assisted suicide. Biology and biotechnology often confound our notions of right and wrong, and what ethical behavior is. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW and ENG-110 FILA general Education: philosophy or religion and ethical reasoning Offered alternate years
PHIL-320E Professional Ethics
Pressing issues confronting professionals in a technological era. Utilizing the insights of philosophical and religious ethics, the course examines the responsibilities of the professional person in business, medicine, law education, the ministry, and other fields. Problems considered include confidentiality, accountability, whistleblowing, governmental regulation, and ethical codes. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW and ENG 110 and junior or senior standing FILA general education: philosophy or religion and ethical reasoning
ENVR-234E Wildlife and Society
This course will explore the human use and influence of wild animal populations and the implications of wildlife management, research and stewardship. Students will analyze case studies for human impacts and suggest solutions by applying ethical frameworks. Possible topics include reintroducing predators, predator control, supplemental feeding, logging/wildlife conflicts, hunting culture. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW, ENG-110 and BIOL-100 or BIOL-110 or ENVR-101 FILA general education: ethical reasoning
Degree Type Offered: Concentration
PSY-101 General Psychology
Introduction to psychology as a natural and a social science. Topics include the methods of science, biological bases of behavior, developmental processes, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, conditioning and learning, memory and cognition, motivation and emotion, theories and assessment of intelligence and personality, diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders, and social-cultural influences on behavior. FILA general education: social sciences
SOC-101 Sociological Imagination
Introduction to the sociological imagination, with a critical examination of social issues, individual experiences, and the potential for social change. Topics include the nature and impact of culture and social structure, inequality, social institutions, identity, social interaction, and the historical context of knowledge and relationships. Methods of sociological investigation and interpretation are also emphasized. This course is offered in traditional survey and special topics formats. Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350 FILA general education: social sciences
And four courses (at least one from each category) from the following topics list:
Note that no discipline prefix may be used more than three times. For example, after completing PSY-101 and SOC-101, only two more courses in the concentration may be chosen from the PSY or SOC prefixed courses.
Topics in Behavior and Cognition
PSY-240 Behavioral Psychology
Introduction to the experimental analysis of behavior. Historical and modern approaches in the scientific study of learning are discussed. Students are required to demonstrate factual knowledge in the major content areas, procedures, and other advanced issues in regards to simple forms of learning such as habituation and sensitization and more complex forms of associative learning exemplified in classical and operant conditioning. Prerequisite: PSY-230 or permission of instructor
PSY-310 Abnormal Psychology
Empirical findings related to the description, classification, assessment, etiology and treatments of various psychological disorders. Specific disorders examined include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, substance-related disorders, personality disorders, and schizophrenia. An important emphasis is understanding the impact of mental illness on individuals and their family and friends. Prerequisite: PSY-101 or SOC-101, or permission of instructor
PSY/BIOL-317 Cognitive Neuroscience
Examination of the contribution of neuroscience techniques to the understanding of sensation/perception, attention, learning, memory, language and consciousness. Lectures and papers involve an analysis of the interdisciplinary methods such as functional neuroimaging, electrophysiological methods , and the neurological impairments of brain-damaged patients. Prerequisites: PSY-101 and PSY-210 or BIOL-110, or permission of instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as BIOL-317)
PSY-330 Memory and Cognition
Investigation of the major areas of cognitive psychology. Topics include perception and attention, representation of knowledge, models of memory, problem solving/reasoning, language and intelligence. Analysis of the validity and reliability of measuring cognitive processes occur through participation in hands-on experiments and demonstrations. Prerequisite: PSY-101 or permission of the instructor
PSY-390 Sensation and Perception
Survey of theories, principles, and facts concerning the sensory sciences. Emphasis on the study of physical, physiological, and psychological principles governing how we acquire information from the environment through the senses, and the organization of these sensations into meaningful, interpretable experiences. Although the focus is on mechanisms, the influence of disease, development, and aging are also considered. Prerequisite: PSY-210 or permission of the instructor Alternate years: offered 2020-2021
Topics in Life Span and Development
FCS-312X Adult Development and Aging
Examine issues related to geriatrics with emphasis on issues including historical, cultural, biological, physiological, psychological, and social contexts. Opportunities for experiential learning in residential and intermediate facilities with appropriate agencies. Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW FILA general education: experiential learning
PSY-370 Developmental Psychology
Surveys historical approaches, basic issues, recent research, and current theoretical perspectives in developmental psychology. Emphasis on describing and explaining the changes that characterize physical, perceptual, cognitive, social, and emotional development across the lifespan. Prerequisite: PSY-101 or permission of instructor
SOC-366E Sociology of Birth and Death
Examination of how society supports, controls and constrains our arrival into and departure from the world, revealing the ways that events often assumed to be "natural" are in fact conditioned by social and cultural forces. Special emphasis on the communication of cultural norms regarding birth and death, the impact of advances in medicine and technology, and how birth and death become cultural metaphors for other social phenomena. The course includes an interfaith studies component focused on Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Native American death rituals. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW, ENG-110, and SOC-101 FILA general education: ethical reasoning
Topics in Diversity and Identity
BIOL-215 Biology of Human Diversity & Pseudoscience of Racism
Human populations throughout the world differ in their physical appearance, behavior, customs, lifestyles, etc. Students learn about the biological basis of human homogeneity and diversity, and critically examine the construct of race as a sanctioned method of classifying human species into different groups. Consideration of biological principles that define species and subgroups, and discussion of key differences between early and modern techniques that biologists use to classify organisms. Case studies and examples from geographic locations around the world address some of the enormous social implications (health care, education, law enforcement) of using faulty science to group human beings into distinct racial categories Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW; ENG-110; MATH-110 or MATH-115 or MATH-118; and BIOL-100 or BIOL-110 FILA general education: global dynamics Offered alternate years
FCS/SOC-368W Sociology of the Family
Examination of the human family historically and comparatively in various cultures with major emphasis placed upon the modern American family. Included are such topics as the diversity of family structures, the social construction of emotions, gender expectations and roles, parenting, the life cycle, and family tensions. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW, SOC-101 and ENG-110 FILA general education: writing intensive (Cross-listed as SOC-368W)
FCS-319 Families and Individuals in Societal Contexts
Students will examine family and interpersonal relationships from a variety of theoretical and conceptual frameworks to gain an understanding of the changes in society relative to marriage and family. Students will engage in critical examination of issues related to families, work, and their interrelationships. Using family science theories, students will consider the contextual factors that influence the family. Emphasis placed upon the reciprocal impacts of relationships within the family and a person's relationships to individuals and society. This course focuses on family as a basic social institution, the various theoretical perspectives on the family, and provides an overview of current social scientific research on the family. The history, structure, and functions of the family will be addressed as will topics such as dating, cohabitation, marriage, parenting, family violence, and divorce. Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW FILA general education: social sciences
FCS-408X Parent and Child Relations
Overview of the process of parenting in diverse cultural and familial structures. Exploration of issues related to parenting at various stages of development, as well as formation of parenting goals and styles. Emphasis placed on parent-child interactions through the child rearing years. Provides an emphasis on evidence-based practices and evaluation of programming. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW FILA general education: experiential learning
PSCI/SOC-205 Global Identities
Interdisciplinary exploration of the power and dynamics of human similarities and differences on a global scale. Covers globalization from the perspective of identity and difference, and provides opportunities to question contemporary assumptions, values and patterns of behavior with the goal of making global interactions more constructive ad more peaceful. Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW FILA general education: global dynamics (Cross-listed as SOC-205)
PSY-350 Social Psychology
Overview of the study of how people's behaviors, attitudes, and feelings are shaped by other people and the social environment. Topics include attraction, prejudice, deindividuation, persuasion, cognitive dissonance, social cognition, attribution theory and the social self. Emphasis on classic research and the latest studies in the field and their applicability to everyday experiences of the students. Prerequisite: PSY-101 or permission of the instructor
PSY-380 Human Sexuality
Overview of the psychological, social and biological aspects of sexuality that will be of use for communicating with romantic partners, doctors and family members. Topics include: sexual anatomy and physiology, sexually transmitted diseases, methods of contraception, prenatal sexual differentiation, sex research, attraction and love, sexual orientation and sexual dysfunction, and sexual ethics. Prerequisites: PSY-101 or SOC-101 and junior or senior standing
SOC-203 Social Problems
Problems such as population growth, environment and resource depletion, alcoholism and drug addiction, crime and violence, inequity and poverty, unemployment, alienation and others will be studied. Development of public awareness, role of social movements, theoretical approaches, value conflicts, interest groups and power struggles, and potential solutions will also be examined.
SOC-333 Racial and Ethnic Studies
The nature of racial relations and inequalities in American society, including their historical origins and relationship to Western capitalist development. The ethnic composition of contemporary American society, impact of legal and illegal immigration patterns, dynamics of modern structures and institutions, the Civil Rights Movement, inter-ethnic conflicts and attitudes, multiculturalism and status of affirmative action are analyzed in the context of national and global social change. Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SOC-101 FILA general education: global dynamics
SOC-334 Gender and Sexuality Studies
Introduction to a variety of conceptual frameworks and theoretical lenses relating to human gender and sexualities, including social constructionism, political economy, and cultural studies. A critical, global, historical, and sociological approach will be emphasized to unpack gendered ad sexualized social structures like patriarchy, heterosexism, and hegemonic masculinity. Special attention will be paid to social movements and challenges to power/resource inequalities made by gender and sexuality-based minority groups. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW and SOC-101 FILA general education: global dynamics Offered alternate years
Topics in Communication and Health Fields
COMM-230 Communication Technologies: History, Culture, and Society
An introduction to the history and influence of communication technology in society. The class will explore the various social, political, cultural, and economic impacts of new communication technology. Major topics include: the origins of writing, printing, photography, film, the telegraph and telephone, radio, television, and the internet.
COMM-240 Contemporary Media Industries
Examines how electronic media industries have changed the way we produce and consume media products. The course will examine how the digital age has impacted notions of interactivity, virtual space, media production, networks and credibility. Particular attention will be paid to the social, economic and political implications of these changes.
COMM-327 Interpersonal Communication
Examines issues related to communication within personal and professional relationships. Students will develop theoretical and practical understandings of verbal and nonverbal communication, the role of technology in interpersonal communication and how interpersonal communication functions to develop, negotiate, maintain and terminate relationships.
COMM-334 Intercultural Communication
Theoretical and practical survey of intercultural communication processes. Examines intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, and mass media dimensions of intercultural communication. The course specifically focuses on the distinctive cultural behaviors, expectations, values and power dynamics that affect our abilities to communicate effectively and people from diverse cultures. Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW FILA general education: world cultures
COMM-335 Communicating Sex and Gender
Students will develop theoretical and practical understandings of the role of sex and gender in verbal and nonverbal communication, friendships, families, romantic relationships and professional relationships. This course also examines the issues of technology, health, power and violence as they related to sex and gender. Alternate years: offered 2019-2020
COMM-340 Representations of Gender, Race & Class
Examines the media's role in creating and re-creating our understanding of gender, race, and class. Includes a historical perspective, and traces how these representations have changed over time, the forces that have affected representations of gender, race and class, and the current state of their representation in the media. A field trip to at least one museum in Washington, D.C. is planned, depending upon exhibits available at the time (e.g. National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian's American History Museum). Alternate years: offered 2020-2021
COMM-447 Science, Environment, and Health Communication
Examines the role of news, advocacy, scientific analysis, decision and policy making, risk perception, and other factors in the communication of issues related to science, environment, and health. Provides students with rich theoretical background, critical understanding, and practical skills to produce, investigate and critique communication processes related to the topics. Students in this course are required to conduct field work and original research, write and publish news, and analytical articles.
ES-300X Personal and Community Health
Examination of the multiple determinants of health and wellness from a personal and community perspective. Through service-based learning experiences, students critically analyze individual, social and environmental factors that influence health. This course requires students to spend time off-campus serving at community agencies in order to successfully fulfill course requirements. Prerequisites: ENG-110 and ES-230 or permission of the instructor FILA general education: experiential learning
ES-357X Global Healthcare and Sport
Comparison of the similarities and differences between varied World Health Organization ranked global healthcare systems. Emphasis will be placed on exploring delivery, financing, and effectiveness of services within various healthcare systems, with a special focus on sports medicine and related prevention and intervention resources for athletes. The class will travel to Portugal and Czech Republic. Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW FILA general education: world cultures and experiential learning
ES-427 Health Promotion and Wellness
Development of community based intervention strategies to modify health risk behaviors, with emphasis on theoretical foundations, and comprehensive program planning strategies.
ES-456 Management Concepts in Health Care
Concepts of administration such as devising policy and procedures, record-keeping, budgeting, facility design, risk management and productivity standards for healthcare professionals. (Cross-listed AT-556)
ES-467 Health & Exercise Psychology
Examination of the mental health benefits of exercise as well as motivational factors involved in exercise and the many variables that influence exercise behavior (e.g., stress, emotional states, anxiety and depression). Additionally, this course explores the psychological antecedents and consequences of injury and illness. (Cross-listed as AT-567)
ES-470 Cultural Competence & Ethics Healthcare
This course is a directed study of cultural and ethical issues associated with varied allied health professional's service delivery. The experience is designed to advance the student's knowledge in providing healthcare for diverse cultural groups within the United States healthcare system including discussions related to the following: communications, family roles, high risk behaviors, healthcare practices, spirituality, and death rituals. Concurrently, the class will provide insight into the formation and use of various allied healthcare professional organization's code of ethics.
PSY-340 Public Mental Health
Exposes students to a broad view of public mental health and psychology in the public interest. Stimulates the interest of future researchers, clinicians, and policy makers toward improvement of public mental health. Specific attention is given to discerning science from pseudoscience in the practice of psychology. Prerequisite: PSY-310 or permission of instructor
SOC-451 Counseling and Personal Development
A survey of the concepts and practices of the major contemporary therapeutic (theory) systems used in the helping professions. Primary focus is placed on helping approaches and the various frameworks or understanding change and motivation to change. Goal setting, decision making, self-awareness, learning one's own helping strengths and limitations, and referral techniques are also included. Prerequisite: SOC-101
Degree Type Offered: Teacher Licensure
Students majoring in Biology, Secondary Education Track, can be eligible for teacher licensure at the secondary level (6-12) by also completing the courses in the teacher education program. As early as possible, contact Dr. Jenny Martin, coordinator for secondary education at jmmartin@bridgewater.edu or 540-828-5662 for further information.
This program allows qualified students to seek early admission to the Sentara RMH School of Medical Laboratory Science or the Augusta Health School of Clinical Laboratory Science. If granted admission, it is the responsibility of the student to complete the following prior to entering this program:
Upon completing this 12-month professional program with minimum grades of C in each course, the College will transfer 32 semester hours of credit to the student’s record to complete requirements for earning a bachelor’s degree from the College.
Bridgewater College is a member institution of the Smithsonian-Mason Semester which is run by George Mason University out of the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in Front Royal, Va. In this program, students live on the SCBI campus (a world-class conservation research facility) and learn about the theory and application of conservation biology (including the social, political and economic dimensions). Students participate in one of two 16 credit hour programs: Wildlife Ecology and Conservation or Conservation, Biodiversity and Society (for any student interested in conservation). Interested students should visit the program’s website (smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/undergraduate) and contact the Department of Biology and Environmental Science.Both programs are appropriate for juniors and seniors. There are no specific prerequisite classes for Conservation, Biodiversity and Society. That program is open to all majors. The Wildlife Ecology and Conservation semester has Ecology (BIOL-350) as a prerequisite.
The department has pursued dual degree programs with other institutions. These include physical therapy with Shenandoah University, veterinary medicine with Virginia Tech and clinical laboratory sciences with Sentara RMH and Augusta Health.Qualified students may apply for early admission to the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech or another accredited veterinary program. If accepted, the student may earn the bachelor’s degree in biology from Bridgewater College by fulfilling the following requirements:
BIOL-100 The Nature of the Biological World
Survey of the discipline of biology designed for the non-major. Content varies with the expertise of the instructor, but all sections focus on the relevance/importance of biology in everyday life. Laboratory focuses on understanding science as a process and includes an independent research project with oral presentation. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite or Corequisite: MATH-110, MATH-115 or MATH-118 FILA general education: natural and physical sciences
BIOL-200 Professional Development
Credits: 1 Term Offered: Spring Only
Designed to prepare biology and environment science students for entry into the job market, or further study at the graduate level. Meets once a week to address topics of relevance to postgraduates, including interview preparation, resume writing, certifications, graduate program admissions, etc. Students will prepare a career portfolio, individually designed to meet their specific needs, which will include a range of materials for professional and graduate school applications. The portfolio will be fully assessed at the end of the semester. Prerequisite: BIOL-309, BIOL-350, ENVR-301 or permission of the instructor
BIOL-256 Conservation Biology of Florida
Due to its location, geology and climate, Florida supports a variety of unique species and ecosystems. It also supports rapidly growing human populations and diverse economic activities. This course provides an overview of environmental and conservation issues that have arisen as human activity has increased (including water quality, decline of biodiversity, invasive species, and wetland loss and restoration). The class travels to Florida where they learn about environmental and conservation problems and solutions. Students examine the science as well as the economic, political and social aspects of the issues. Prerequisites: BIOL-100, BIOL-101, or BIOL-110, or permission of instructor (Cross-listed as ENVR-256)
BIOL-257X Marine Ecology
Field-based introduction to the biology and ecology of marine organisms and their habitats. Students learn about 1) the ocean as an environment, 2) the characteristics of organisms living in and near the ocean with a focus on marine invertebrates and fishes, and 3) ecological principles that govern the distribution and abundance of those organisms. A major focus is on the ecology of tropical marine ecosystems. Thus, students spend much of their time in the water investigating ecosystems such as mangrove estuaries, sea grass beds, and coral reefs. Applied aspects of marine ecology including human impacts, managements, conservation, fisheries and tourism are included throughout the course. There is also time to explore terrestrial tropical ecosystems, such as freshwater mangrove forests and tropical forests, and cultural markets or archaeological ruins, depending on the field site. Potential locations for the course include Belize, Florida, Bermuda or other marine education centers located on islands such as Little Cayman in the Caribbean. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and FILA-150 or FILA-350EW; and BIOL-100, BIOL-101,or BIOL-110 FILA general education: experiential learning
BIOL-259 Travel Course in Natural History
Explores the biology, geology, climate and natural history of geographic regions outside the Shenandoah Valley. Students examine the ecosystems, flora/fauna and conservation issues of the destination. This is a field course requiring travel, typically in Interterm. In the past the course has traveled to South Africa. Prerequisites: BIOL-100, BIOL-101, or BIOL-110
BIOL-301 Principles of Environmental Science
Exploration of basic biological, chemical, geological, and physical processes at work on the earth, its lifeforms and its natural resources. The extent of human impact and the need for global awareness are emphasized, along with the need for application of rapidly expanding knowledge and technology toward solution of environmental problems. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-111 or ENVR-101, or permission of instructor (Cross-listed as ENVR-301)
BIOL-302X Medical Terminology
For students intending to enter the health professions. Students learn basic medical terms and their meanings, etymologies, and rules for combining prefixes and suffixes. Content is taught on-line and students apply what they are learning through concurrent field experiences at health care institutions. Students reflect upon the integration of on-line content, experiential learning, and their own career goals. Prerequisites: BIOL-305 or permission of instructor FILA general education: experiential learning
BIOL-310 Histology
A systematic treatment of the microscopic structure of tissues and organs surveying the major organ systems of the body with a focus on cellular anatomy and physiology. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL-110; BIOL-305 or BIOL-314 recommended Offered alternate years
BIOL-312W Wildlife Ecology and Management
BIOL-317 Cognitive Neuroscience
Examination of the contribution of neuroscience techniques to the understanding of sensation/perception, attention, learning, memory, language and consciousness. Lectures and papers involve an analysis of the interdisciplinary methods such as functional neuroimaging, electrophysiological methods, and the neurological impairments of brain-damaged patients. Prerequisites: PSY-101 and PSY-210 or BIOL-110, or permission of instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as PSY-317)
BIOL-319 Functional Neuroanatomy
Comprehensive analysis of the organization of vertebrate nervous systems approached from a structural perspective with emphasis on the human central nervous system. Principles of organization are stressed. Laboratory component introduces students to neuroanatomical and neurohistological methods and techniques. Both the gross and fine microscopic anatomy of the nervous system are studied. Prerequisites: PSY-101 and PSY-210 or BIOL-110 or permission of instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as PSY-319)
BIOL-360 Environmental Physiology
BIOL-365 Field Biology & Natural History
BIOL-370 Stormwater Management and Nonpoint Source Pollution
In this course, students will learn about stormwater management practices and their effectiveness, as well as regulatory efforts. In addition, rural and agricultural practices that impact water quality will be addressed. Presentations and field assignments will be part of the course so students see how local work affects watershed quality. Students will learn management techniques specific to urban and rural environments; as well as the economic, political and sociological implications of these solutions. Prerequisites: ENVR-101 or BIOL-111 (Cross-listed as ENVR-370)
BIOL-375 Applied Neuropsychology
Multidisciplinary course in neuroscience, with clinical ties to neurology, psychiatry and psychology, as well as basic scientific links to biology, computer science and cognitive studies. Examines how the structure and function of the brain relate to specific cognitive processes and overt behaviors through the use of neuropsychological testing methods. Topics include orientation, learning and memory, intelligence, language, visuoperception, and executive functioning. The administration, scoring and interpretation of various neuropsychological measures are discussed. Prerequisites: PSY-230 or MATH-140 or SOC-322 and PSY-210 or PSY-315 or PSY-317 or PSY-319 or BIOL 110 or permission of instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as PSY-375)
BIOL-401 Environmental Microbiology
BIOL-402 Conservation Biology
BIOL-425 Neuroscience Methods
Lecture and laboratory course exposing students to a variety of research techniques employed by neuroscientists including behavioral and cognitive procedures for measuring reward, memory, attention and emotion; neuroanatomical procedures for staining and examining brain tissues; physiological procedures for recording the electrical activity of nerve cells, as well as commonly used techniques used to explore brain-behavior relationships (EEG, lesions, electrical and chemical stimulation). Prerequisites: PSY-317 or PSY-319 and CHEM-125 or higher or permission of instructor (Cross-listed as PSY-425)
BIOL-433 Biology & Management of Fishes
BIOL-435 Freshwater Ecology
BIOL-460 Special Topics
Credits: 3 Term Offered: All Terms
Studies from the areas of physiology, genetics, ecology, plant systematics, plant anatomy or plant physiology, and invertebrate zoology or entomology. Prerequisite: Permission of the department Offered on demand
BIOL-461 Independent Research
Credits: 1 Term Offered: All Terms
Open-ended research with a member of the biology faculty. A minimum of 40 hours of work in the library, laboratory, or field over the semester. Prerequisite: permission of instructor May be repeated as necessary for credit
BIOL-462 Independent Research
Credits: 2 Term Offered: All Terms
Open-ended research with a member of the biology faculty. A minimum of 80 hours of work in the library, laboratory, or field over the semester. Prerequisite: permission of instructor May be repeated as necessary for credit
BIOL-480X Internship
Provides an opportunity for a student to gain field experience in an area related to the student's program of study or career goals. The learning objectives for internships include connecting academic knowledge and problem-solving processes to experiences and problems in professional settings. Supervision of an intern is provided by an appropriate faculty member and by a site supervisor of the agency or business in which the student is an intern. A student who wishes to engage in an internship must consult with the appropriate faculty member at least eight weeks in advance of the start of the term in which the internship is to be completed. A description of the internship, signed by the student and the faculty sponsor, must be filed with the director of internships by the first day of the semester prior to the start of the internship. Approval of each application for an internship is made by the director of internships based upon approved policies and guidelines. Internships are graded on an S or U basis. Students must complete 120 hours of internship-related work as well as weekly journal entries and a final reflective paper completed in accordance with approved requirements. A student may enroll in an internship program for 3 credits per semester, and internship credit may be earned in subsequent semesters subject to the limitations that no more than two internships may be pursued in any one agency or business and a maximum of 9 credits in internships may be applied toward graduation. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350EW, junior or senior standing, and a minimum 2.0 grade point average FILA general education: experiential learning
BIOL-490 Independent Study
Upon approval of the department and the division head, a student with a cumulative grade point average of 2.20 or better may engage in an independent study or research project. One desiring to pursue independent study or research must submit a written description of the proposed work to the chair of the appropriate department and to the appropriate division head prior to the last day of the drop and add period for the semester in which the study is to be conducted. At the end of the semester, the supervising professor files with the registrar a grade for the student and a description of the work accomplished. Credit may be received for no more than three independent studies or research projects.
BIOL-491 Research
Upon approval of the department and the division head, a student with a cumulative grade point average of 2.20 or better may engage in an independent study or research project. One desiring to pursue independent study or research must submit a written description of the proposed work to the chair of the appropriate department and to the appropriate division head prior to the last day of the drop and add period for the semester in which the study is to be conducted. At the end of the semester, the supervising professor files with the registrar a grade for the student and a description of the work accomplished. Credit may be received for not more than three independent studies or research projects.
BIOL-499 Honors Project
An honors project is one in which a student researches a subject, by examination of relevant literature or by experimentation or both; the student reports the results in an accurately documented and well-written paper or appropriate representation of the work. Whenever the study deals with the subject of an established course, the student is expected to go well beyond the usual work of the course in research and in assimilation of the results as revealed in the report. Juniors and seniors with a cumulative grade point average of 3.40 or above may register for an honors project. One desiring to pursue an honors project must submit a written description of his or her proposed work to the chair of the appropriate department and to the appropriate division head prior to the last day of the drop and add period for the semester in which the study is to be conducted. Upon the completion of the honors project, the student must present an oral defense of his or her project. The final grade must include a satisfactory performance on the oral defense, assessed by a three-faculty member team. The project advisor will authorize the make-up of the oral defense team and will assign the final grade on the project. The honors project title will be noted on the student's transcript. It is the student's responsibility to provide a copy of the written paper or appropriate representation of the work to the library in compliance with specifications approved by the Council on Education. The library director arranges for binding and storage.
ENVR-200 Professional Development
ENVR-256 Conservation Biology of Florida
Due to its location, geology, and climate, Florida supports a variety of unique species and ecosystems. It also supports a rapidly growing human population and diverse economic activities. This interterm course will provide an overview of environmental and conservation issues that have arisen as human activity has increased (including water quality, decline of biodiversity, invasive species and wetland loss/restoration). The class will travel to Florida where they will learn about environmental/conservation problems and solutions. In this course, students examine the science as well as the economic, political and social aspects of the issues. Prerequisites: BIOL-100, 101 or 110, or permission of instructor Offered alternate years (Cross-listed as BIOL-256)
ENVR-301 Principles of Environmental Science
ENVR-311 Animal Physiology
In this course we explore comparative animal physiology from an environmental perspective: how do various animals function in strikingly different environments? And how do changes in environments affect the animals' ability to maintain internal homeostasis and survive? Gaining knowledge in this subject will be essential for students with interests in animal health, wildlife and management of environmental resources. Course structure: active learning lectures and applied learning labs with live animals. Development of critical scientific thinking and effective scientific communication are significant components of the course. Credit may be received for one physiology course: BIOL/ENVR-311 or BIOL-314. Prerequisites: BIOL-110, BIOL-111, and MATH-120 (Cross-listed as BIOL-311)
ENVR-312W Wildlife Ecology and Management
ENVR-324 Alternative Energy and Scandinavia
Study of how Scandinavian societies have been shaped by energy resources and energy production. Alternative modes of energy production will be studied and a contrast is made between the national energy policies of Iceland and Denmark compared to the United States. Special emphasis will be given to the emerging hydrogen economy in Iceland. One week on campus and two weeks off campus in Iceland and Denmark.
ENVR-365 Field Biology & Natural History
This primarily field-based course will provide a broad overview of techniques and concepts involved in field biology (especially ecology,) including basic scientific method and a variety of sampling techniques. Course content also has a strong emphasis on basic natural history as students learn about and experience a wide variety of organisms (e.g. plant, fungi, insects, fish, amphibians, and mammals), ecosystems (e.g. forests, grasslands, wetlands, ponds, and streams) and ecological interactions. Students will also discuss techniques for interpreting/teaching these biological concepts to others. Prerequisites: BIOL-111, or permission of instructor (Cross-listed as BIOL-356)
ENVR-370 Stormwater Management and Nonpoint Source Pollution
In this course, students will learn about stormwater management practices and their effectiveness, as well as regulatory efforts. In addition, rural and agricultural practices that impact water quality will be addressed. Presentations and field assignments will be part of the course so students see how local work affects watershed quality. Students will learn management techniques specific to urban and rural environments; as well as the economic, political and sociological implications of these solutions. Prerequisites: ENVR-101 or BIOL-111 (Cross-listed as BIOL-370)
ENVR-401 Environmental Microbiology
ENVR-402 Conservation Biology
ENVR-433 Biology & Management of Fishes
ENVR-435 Freshwater Ecology
ENVR-461 Independent Research
Open-ended research with a member of the biology faculty, with an environmental science emphasis. A minimum of 40 hours of work in the library, laboratory or field over the semester. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor May be repeated for credit
ENVR-462 Independent Research
Open-ended research with a member of the biology faculty, with an environmental science emphasis. A minimum of 80 hours of work in the library, laboratory or field over the semester. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor May be repeated for credit
ENVR-480X Internship
ENVR-490 Independent Study
ENVR-491 Research
ENVR-499 Honors Project