Chair:  Eugene Muller

Professors:  **William E. Barklow, Richard Beckwitt

Associate Professors:  Margaret Carroll, Susan Crowson, Eugene Muller, Ben W. Snyder

Assistant Professors:  Aline Davis, Michelle LaBonte, Walter Lambert, Brandi Van Roo, *Charlotte Zampini

*Sabbatical: Fall 2005
**Sabbatical: Spring 2006

General Education Requirements

All students must satisfy a general education requirement consisting of eleven (11) courses outside of the major department (see page 58 of the catalog). The General Education Goal 7 (Life Science) and laboratory requirement are satisfied through the completion of the Biology major.

Course Prerequisites

Courses may have specified conditions for enrollment, such as prior completion of less advanced courses, permission of the instructor, or appropriate placement test scores. Students should refer to course descriptions in the department listings for prerequisite requirements.

BIOLOGY MAJOR

Departmental Requirements

Biology majors must complete twelve (12) core requirements as well as additional requirements for the particular concentration chosen (see below).

A. The following twelve (12) Biology core requirements are required of Biology majors in all concentrations:

Biology Core:

            23.160             Introduction to Organismal Biology

            23.161             Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology

            23.260             Cell Biology

            23.301             Genetics

            23.402             Processes of Organic Evolution

            23.406             Methods in Biological Research I *

            23.407             Methods in Biological Research II * or
                                  23.496    Internship in Biology

            33.107             Principles of Chemistry (Gen.Ed. Goal 6)

            33.108             Principles of Chemistry and Quantitative Analysis

            33.207             Organic Chemistry I

            43.200             Precalculus (Gen.Ed. Goal 2)**

            43.208             Biostatistics

*An original research project is required of all Biology majors, generally begun during the spring semester of the student’s junior year and completed in the summer and/or fall semesters. Prior to enrollment in these courses, the student should meet with her/his advisor and with other Biology faculty to tailor the research project to the student’s interests and career goals.

**Students proficient at the precalculus level should enroll in 43.219 Calculus I to satisfy the Gen. Ed. Goal 2 requirement.

B.   Additional courses are required of Biology majors in all concentrations. Biology electives are listed below in groups labeled “A-E”. The number and distribution of electives required for completion of a Biology major varies according to the concentration selected by the student.

Group A: Cellular and Molecular Biology Electives

            23.307             Principles of Microbiology

            23.371             Medical Microbiology

            23.409             Developmental Biology

            23.411             Food Microbiology

            23.435             Recombinant DNA Techniques

Group B: Organismal Diversity Electives

            23.220             Animal Behavior

            23.232             Invertebrate Zoology

            23.250             Horticulture (may not be used as a required plant course)

            23.251             Vascular Plant Taxonomy

            23.252             Biology of Non-Vascular Plants

            23.305             Cetacean Biology and Conservation

            23.336             Ornithology

            23.338             Ichthyology

            23.350             Vascular Plant Anatomy and Morphogenesis

Group C: Physiology Electives

            * 23.234          Comparative Vertebrate Physiology

            * 23.272          Human Anatomy and Physiology I

               23.273          Human Anatomy and Physiology II

            * 23.333          Principles of Human Physiology

               23.325          Neurobiology

               23.340          Immunology

               23.451          Plant Physiology

               23.417          Endocrinology

               84.225          Biopsychology

* Only one of these courses may be taken in order to receive biology credit.

Group D: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Electives

            23.200             Introduction to Environmental Science

            23.203             Plants and Society (may not be used as a required plant course)

            23.316             Wetlands: Hydrology, Ecology, Restoration

            23.335             Principles of Wildlife Biology

            23.341             Marine Biology

            23.402             Processes of Organic Evolution

            23.408             Ecology

            23.457             Quantitative Plant Ecology

Group E: Advanced Biology Electives

            23.490             Independent Study in Biology

            23.496/497      Internship in Biology

For students who plan to pursue an advanced degree in Biology, the following courses are strongly recommended:

            33.301             Biochemistry

            53.201             Introductory Physics or

            53.211             Physics I and

            53.212             Physics II

            43.219             Calculus I

CONCENTRATIONS

General Biology (BIG)

Biology majors may elect to take a broad spectrum of courses covering the major areas of biology: cellular and molecular biology, organismal biology, physiology, and ecology and evolutionary biology, possibly combined with a minor according to the student’s interests. This curriculum prepares students for the advanced Graduate Record Examination in Biology, a prerequisite for admission to many graduate programs in biology. In addition to entering graduate school, students graduating with a bachelors of science in biology are employed as laboratory technologists in academic and industrial settings, sales representatives for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, scientific illustrators, and technical writers.

Students must take an additional six (6) biology electives (one of these courses must focus on plants and one on animals):

One (1) course from Group A

One (1) course from Group B

One (1) from the following Group C courses:

            *23.234 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology

            *23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I

            *23.333 Principles of Human Physiology

             23.451 Plant Physiology

            *Only one of these courses may be taken in order to receive Biology credit.

One (1) from the following Group D courses:

            23.408 Ecology

            23.457 Quantitative Plant Ecology

Two (2) additional courses from Group A-E

For students who plan to attend graduate school, it is recommended that they take 33.301 Biochemistry and 53.201 Introductory Physics, or elect a more in-depth study of physics by taking 53.211 Principles of Physics I and 53.212 Principles of Physics II. (Note: 43.219 Calculus I is a pre-requisite for Principles of Physics I.)

Wildlife and Environmental Biology (BIW):

Requirements for the concentration in wildlife and environmental biology include courses in wildlife biology or environmental science, both animal and plant systems, ecology, and policy/communication. Upon graduation, students will have completed the majority of curriculum requirements for certification as a Wildlife Biologist by the Wildlife Society. Graduates of this program are prepared for graduate studies or careers as wildlife biologists, wildlife managers, conservation biologists, environmental consultants, park rangers, and zookeepers.

Students must take seven (7) additional courses:

            23.200             Introduction to Environmental Science or

                                    23.335    Principles of Wildlife Biology

            23.234             Comparative Vertebrate Physiology

            23.251             Vascular Plant Taxonomy

            23.408             Ecology or

                                    23.457    Quantitative Plant Ecology

Must choose one course from each of the following biology elective groups:

            One (1) course from Group A

            One (1) course from Group B

            One (1) course from Group D

Other courses that are not required but would be useful for students in this concentration include the following:

            22.216             Introduction to Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

            22.235             Environmental Law and Policy

            22.375             Resource Management

            33.301             Biochemistry

            53.201             Introductory Physics*

            62.329             Public Policy Analysis

            73.246             Oceanography

            84.301             Water Resources Planning and Management

            84.302             Coastal Issues: Science and Policy

*Required for Wildlife Certification by Wildlife Society

Biotechnology and Biomedical Science (BIM)

Students may elect a curriculum that emphasizes cellular and molecular biology. Courses covering microbiology, immunology, genetics, recombinant DNA techniques, and cell culture are appropriate for those interested in research positions in the biotechnology industry, medical centers, and government agencies. Graduates of the program are also prepared for careers in diverse areas of the pharmaceutical industry such as product development, sales and marketing, quality control, and technical training.

Students must take an additional six (6) biology electives (One of these seven courses must focus on plants and one on animals):

Three (3) courses from Group A:

One (1) course from Group B

Two (2) courses from Group C - which must include one of the following:

            *   23.234         Comparative Vertebrate Physiology

            *   23.272         Human Anatomy and Physiology I

            *   23.333         Principles of Human Physiology

                 23.451         Plant Physiology

            *    Biology credit will be given to only one of these courses.

All students in this concentration are advised to take:

33.208 Organic Chemistry II;

Those students with a career goal in plant-oriented biotechnology are advised to take:

23.451 Plant Physiology,

For students who plan to attend graduate school, it is recommended that they take:

33.301 Biochemistry

53.201 Introductory Physics,

or elect a more in-depth study of physics by taking:

53.211 Principles of Physics I and

53.212 Principles of Physics II.

(Note: 43.219 Calculus I is a prerequisite for 53.211 Principles of Physics I.)

Biology Secondary Education Teaching Program (BIT)

Students who plan to teach at the middle school or high school level will fulfill the Commonwealth’s requirements for secondary education certification in biology by completing a program similar to the general biology concentration. Students must also complete the requirements for a Secondary Education Minor.

Students must take the following additional courses:

23.333      Principles of Human Physiology or both

               23.272             Human Anatomy and Physiology I and

               23.273             Human Anatomy and Physiology II

One (1) of the following courses relating to plants:

            23.251             Vascular Plant Taxonomy

            23.252             Biology of Non-Vascular Plants

            23.350             Vascular Plant Anatomy and Morphogenesis

            23.451             Plant Physiology

The following three (3) courses are also required:

            23.307             Principles of Microbiology

            23.408             Ecology

            53.201             Introductory Physics

Eight (8) additional courses are also required for a Secondary Education Minor (see Education section of the College catalog).

It is recommended that students take 73.231 Physical Geology.

Note: Before registering for 14.315 Professional Preparation and Field Study II - High School or 14.316 Professional Preparation and Field Study II - Middle School, students must have completed ten (10) of the eleven (11) Biology core requirements (all courses, except for 23.407 Methods in Biological Research II or 23.496 Internship in Biology) and five (5) of the six (6) Biology Secondary Teaching Program requirements; those remaining courses may be taken concurrently. Before enrolling in 14.410-11 Student Teaching Seminar and Practicum I-II - High School or 14.414-15 Student Teaching Practicum and Seminar I-II - Middle School, students must have completed all courses in the major and 14.315 or 14.316.

Preprofessional Program (BIP):

This concentration is designed for Biology majors who plan to attend medical school, dental school, veterinary school, or pursue a career in either human or animal health.  Though specific programs may have additional or slightly varying requirements, these basic courses are required by the majority of professional schools.  Students are strongly advised to meet the preprofessional advisor early in their coursework.

Students must take eight (8) courses, depending upon their interest in either veterinary or human studies respectively:

One (1) course from Group A

Three (3) courses from Group B and/or Group C, which must include:

            23.234             Comparative Vertebrate Physiology (recommended for veterinary
                                   studies)

            OR

            23.272             Human Anatomy & Physiology I and

            23.273             Human Anatomy & Physiology II (recommended for human studies)

The following four (4) courses are also required:

            33.208             Organic Chemistry II

            43.219             Calculus I

            53.211             Principles of Physics I

            53.212             Principles of Physics II

The Marine Studies Consortium

The Biology Department has fostered an ongoing collaboration with the Marine Studies Consortium. The Consortium is an association of colleges, universities, museums, and marine research institutions in Massachusetts; its mission is to educate students in the disciplines of marine science and policy. A series of courses are offered on an annual or rotating schedule. Classes and laboratories usually are held in the evenings at facilities of member institutions (typically, Brandeis University and The New England Aquarium, Boston). Saturday field trips to local coastal sites are common. For more information about the program and the courses offered visit the Consortium’s web site (http://www.brandeis.edu/
marinestudies/schedule-location.html).

The collaboration with the Marine Studies Consortium allows students who have interests in specific oceanographic topics to explore them through courses not routinely offered by the College. Courses offered by the Consortium that are available for credit at the College include: 23.210, 23.305, 23.316, 32.307, 84.300, 84.301, and 84.302. See the campus representative (Dr. Richard Beckwitt, Biology Department) to learn more about the program and the application procedure. Application to the campus representative must be made one semester prior to participation in the course. Additional course fees apply as posted in the most recent master schedule of day division courses.

MINOR IN BIOLOGY (5 courses):

An introductory biology laboratory course, a chemistry laboratory course and a minimum of three (3) biology courses which must be 200-level and above. A minimum of two (2) must have a laboratory. All courses must be chosen under the guidance of a member of the Biology Department. If college credit is received for either an examination or advanced placement, the introductory course requirement shall be waived. At least three (3) of the courses must be taken on the Framingham State College campus.

Biology Courses Appropriate for General Education (Gen. Ed.)

Course Descriptions

23.101 Biological Concepts (Gen. Ed. Goal 7, Lab)

An approach to the study of biology that emphasizes conceptual understanding of biological systems. These areas include evolution and the origin of life, cellular processes, Mendelian and molecular genetics, ecology, behavioral science, and basic physiological systems. The interrelationship of these areas and their effect on human biology are stressed. Laboratory. This course is not open to Biology majors.

Prerequisite: 43.095 General Mathematics or a satisfactory score on the mathematics placement exam.

23.103 Ecological Implications of Conservation (Gen. Ed. Goal 7)

An introduction to the scientific principles on which conservation should be based. Methods of conservation practice are stressed. The course includes a discussion of the development and future of the conservation movement. Occasional field trips. No laboratory. This course is not open to Biology majors.

23.112 Biology of Marine Organisms (Gen. Ed. Goal 7)

An introduction to life in the oceans, including basic principles of ecology, a description of the important organisms, and the impact of humans on marine life. Laboratory demonstrations and occasional field trips. No laboratory. This course is not open to Biology majors.

23.114 A Human Perspective on Genetics (Gen. Ed. Goal 7)

An exploration of the field of genetics from the rediscovery of Mendel’s work in 1900 up to the present. Once the fundamentals of the discipline are established, the emphasis is on genetics and its human ramifications. Topics include the efforts to create a DNA blueprint for humans, the prenatal diagnosis of some genetic disorders, the cloning of genes whose products are used as pharmaceuticals, and the ability to alter the genetic properties of important crop plants. No laboratory. This course is not open to Biology majors.

23.142 Introduction to Human Biology (Gen. Ed. Goal 7, Lab)

An exploration of the functional aspects of the human body at the molecular, cellular, organ, and systems levels. Emphasis is on the development and evolution of homeostatic mechanisms that allow the body to respond and adapt to physical and emotional stresses under changing environmental conditions. Laboratory. This course is not open to Biology or Food and Nutrition majors, except for students in the Applied Nutrition concentration.

23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology

An introduction to the organismal, population, community, and ecosystem levels of biological organization for students intending to major in Biology. The course examines the processes of evolution, the diversity of the biological world, and the interactions of organisms and their environment. Laboratory periods concentrate on developing basic skills of observation, measuring and interpreting data, and the reading and reporting of experimental work. Offered Fall semester only. Note: Students cannot receive credit for both 23.108 Biology II and 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology.

Prerequisite: 43.095 General Mathematics or a satisfactory score on the mathematics placement exam.

23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology

An introduction to the molecular, cellular, and physiological levels of biological organization. The course examines the processes of energy release, photosynthesis, heredity, molecular control of cells, and selected topics in physiology. Laboratory periods concentrate on developing basic skills of observation, measuring and interpreting data, and the reading and reporting of experimental work. Offered Spring semester only. Note: Students cannot receive credit for both 23.107 Biology I and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology.

Prerequisite: 43.095 General Mathematics or a satisfactory score on the mathematics placement exam.

23.200 Introduction to Environmental Science (Gen. Ed. Goal 7)

A comprehensive survey of the environmental principles concerning the interactions of humans and world resources. The role of technology in meeting the problems of growth, pollution, energy, and agriculture is examined in the context of present capabilities and the prospects for future development. No laboratory.

23.203 Plants and Society (Gen. Ed. Goal 7)

An exploration of the dependency of humans on plants and plant products. The beginning of agriculture and its consequences for human evolution are discussed. The origins, dispersals, improvements, and uses of economically valuable plants are considered along with their relationships to the world’s economy. Occasional field trips. No laboratory. This course is acceptable for majors as a biology elective, but not in place of a required plant course.

23.210 Introduction to Marine Mammals

An exploration of the biology and natural history of marine mammals in the North Atlantic, including whales, dolphins, and seals. Topics include evolution, anatomy, behavior, field identification, and the history of whaling and contemporary conservation issues. Demonstration laboratory work focuses on smaller marine mammals. There is one Saturday field trip on Massachusetts Bay. This course is not open to Biology majors. Additional course fees apply.

Prerequisite: One college biology course. Application to campus representative of the Marine Studies Consortium must be made one semester prior to experience.

23.220 Animal Behavior

A study of the influence of natural selection on the behavior of animals. This course emphasizes the distinction between the immediate causes of behavior, including external stimuli and internal physiological mechanisms, and the ultimate consequences or survival value of behavior. Topics such as learning and instinct, aggression, territoriality, communication, and social behavior are discussed. Laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology or 23.101 Biological Concepts.

23.232 Invertebrate Zoology

A comparative study of the invertebrate animal phyla with emphasis on marine forms. The course stresses functional morphology, development, behavior, and ecological and evolutionary relationships among the various groups. Students study live specimens whenever possible. Laboratory exercises include field trips to collect and study invertebrates of the region.

Prerequisite: 23.101 Biological Concepts or both 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology or permission of the instructor.

23.234 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology

An introduction to the functions and relationships of vertebrate organs and organ systems. The course emphasizes physiological adaptations and mechanisms by which vertebrates compensate for environmental variations. Laboratory. Note: Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: 23.234 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology, 23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I, or 23.333 Principles of Human Physiology.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry; 23.101 Biological Concepts or both 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology or permission of the instructor.

23.250 Horticulture

Designed as an introduction to basic horticultural principles and practices. The course emphasizes the basic structure, growth, and development of plants, and gives the student an opportunity to develop skills in the care, propagation, and identification of horticultural plants. No laboratory. This course is acceptable for majors as a free elective, but not in place of a required plant course.

23.251 Vascular Plant Taxonomy

An historical view of plant classification; concepts of nomenclature, goals of phylogenetic and biosystematic investigations; anatomical and morphological characteristics important in classification; key characteristics of important temperate plant families; collection and identification techniques; and introduction to the local flora. Laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.101 Biological Concepts or 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology.

23.252 Biology of Non-Vascular Plants

An examination of structure, life histories, physiology, taxonomy, evolution, and economics of the non-vascular plants. Special attention is given to the algae and the fungi. Laboratories, in addition to morphological studies, introduce the student to the methods of collecting, culturing and identifying these organisms. Laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.101 Biological Concepts or 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology.

23.260 Cell Biology

A study of the structure and function of cells and their major organelles. Topics covered include the nucleus, mitochondria, Golgi, lysosome, endoplasmic reticulum, protein trafficking, signal transduction, cellular energetics, and gene expression. Laboratory exercises are mostly experimental.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry; 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology or 23.101 Biological Concepts.

23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I

A study of the functional systems in the human body and the maintenance of homeostasis. Systems covered in this course include: endocrine, cardiovascular, renal (urinary), digestive and reproductive. Laboratory. Course offered Fall semester. Note: Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: 23.234 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology, 23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I, or 23.333 Principles of Human Physiology.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry; 23.101 Biological Concepts or 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology.

23.273 Human Anatomy and Physiology II

A continuation of 23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I. This course focuses on tissues in the body, joints, skeletal and muscular anatomy. In addition, the nervous and respiratory systems are studied. This course is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in medical science. Laboratory. Course offered Spring semester.

Prerequisite: 23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I or permission of instructor.

23.301 Genetics

A study of the principles governing heredity in all living things, including microorganisms, plants, and animals. Topics covered include Mendelian inheritance, molecular genetics, cytogenetics, human hereditary disease, and population genetics. Laboratory.

Prerequisites: 23.260 Cell Biology or permission of the instructor.

23.305 Cetacean Biology and Conservation

An examination of the biology and conservation of cetaceans: whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Topics include physiology, population biology and life history analysis, molecular genetics, morphology, distributional ecology, and social behavior. Early lectures focus on the biology of cetaceans and how they are adapted to the marine environment. Later lectures use case studies to review how biological principles can be applied to the conservation of a wide range of cetacean species. Additional course fees apply.

Prerequisites: One year of general biology and two upper level biology courses. Application to campus representative of the Marine Studies Consortium must be made one semester prior to experience.

23.307 Principles of Microbiology

An introduction to the structure, reproduction, physiology and taxonomy of microorganisms. Special attention is given to bacteria and viruses. Emphasis is placed on aspects of microbiology of significance to humankind, including pathogenesis, immunity, microbial ecology, pollution control, food microbiology, and biotechnology. Laboratory exercises introduce the student to standard techniques of cultivation and identification of microorganisms, food microbiology, DNA purification and analysis, immunological assays, as well as encourage independent investigations.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry; 23.101 Biological Concepts or 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology.

23.316 Wetlands: Hydrology, Ecology, Restoration

A study of wetlands and their role in the hydrology and ecology of global landscapes. Course topics include the function of inland and coastal marshes, swamps and bogs in water and nutrient cycles, and the role of wetlands in the support of biodiversity, from microbes to vertebrates. The biological links between wetlands and human activities, such as agriculture, coastal development, and fisheries, and the legal framework for the protection and restoration of endangered wetlands are also examined. Additional course fees apply.

Prerequisites: One year of introductory science (e.g. biology, geology, chemistry, or engineering) and two upper level (elective) science courses. Application to campus representative of the Marine Studies Consortium must be made one semester prior to experience.

23.325 Neurobiology

An advanced examination of the development, structure and function of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Topics covered include synaptic communication, neurotransmission, sensory and motor processing, reflexes and cellular processes of learning and memory. It is designed for biology or psychology majors with an interest in neurophysiology. Laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I or 23.234 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology or permission of the instructor

23.333 Principles of Human Physiology

An overview of the functional anatomy of the human body and its physiology. Basic concepts concerning the skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, urinary, endocrine, and reproductive systems are studied. Laboratory. Note: Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: 23.234 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology, 23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I, or 23.333 Principles of Human Physiology.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry; 23.101 Biological Concepts or 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology.

23.335 Principles of Wildlife Biology

A study of the distribution of major wildlife groups in the United States. The principles of wildlife management and evaluation of land and water habitats are stressed, as well as population growth dynamics and field procedures. Laboratory.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry; 23.101 Biological Concepts or 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology.

23.336 Ornithology

An introduction to the study of the biology of birds emphasizing their natural history, ecology, and taxonomy. A minor emphasis will be placed on bird diseases, ornithoses, and the historical development of bird watching. Lectures, laboratory, and field and museum trips requiring written reports.

Prerequisite: A biology or zoology course at the 100-level or permission of the instructor.

23.338 Ichthyology

A study of freshwater and marine fishes with particular emphasis on those species occurring in the northeastern states. Laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology or 23.101 Biological Concepts or permission of the instructor.

23.340 Immunology

A study of the principles of immunology. The immune response, antibody formation in cells and the whole animal, immuno-suppression, blood group antigens, and the kinetics of antigen-antibody reactions are described. The structure of the antibody and its active site are examined at the molecular level. The role of complement, hypersensitivity (allergy), autoallergic reactions and transplantation immunity are discussed. Laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.307 Principles of Microbiology or permission of instructor.

23.341 Marine Biology

An introduction to the variety of marine environments and the biological and physical factors which contribute to the productivity of these areas. Oceanic habitats are compared to other ecosystems including tropical and temperate estuaries, coral reefs and salt marshes. Problems of human interaction with the marine environment are emphasized. Laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.101 Biological Concepts or 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology.

23.350 Vascular Plant Anatomy and Morphogenesis

A study of structure, organization, and differentiation of tissues and organs of higher vascular plants with special emphasis on the angiosperms, and a survey of vascular plants in terms of structure, reproduction, and phylogeny. Laboratory.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry; 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology or 23.101 Biological Concepts.

23.371 Medical Microbiology

An overview of human infectious diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Emphasis will be placed on current diagnostic techniques and microbial pathogenic mechanisms, and on contemporary issues that include newly emerging infectious diseases, vaccines, and bio-terrorism. Laboratory exercises focus on state-of-the-art procedures for the isolation and identification of pathogenic microbes and for the determination of their susceptibility to chemotherapeutic drugs.

Prerequisite: 23.307 Principles of Microbiology.

23.381 Theories of Infectious Disease

An introduction to human infectious disease with emphasis on microbial pathogenic mechanisms and contemporary diagnostic techniques.  Learning goals are centered on a series of case studies involving the most common infectious diseases affecting mankind. No Laboratory. This course cannot be used as a required Biology elective for the completion of a major in Biology.

Prerequisite: 23.307 Principles of Microbiology, an equivalent introductory course in microbiology, or permission of the instructor. Note: Students cannot receive credit for both 23.371 Medical Microbiology and 23.381 Theories of Infectious Disease.

23.402 Processes of Organic Evolution

A study of the historical development of evolutionary thought in the pre- and post-Darwinian periods; the interplay among mutations, recombination, gene flow, natural selection, and genetic drift in determining the direction of evolutionary change; isolating mechanisms and the origins of species; the role of polyploidy in plant evolution; the significance of hybridization in evolution and speciation; evidences of evolution from various disciplines. No laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.301 Genetics.

23.406 Methods in Biological Research I

Designed to develop a working appreciation of methods of scientific inquiry through development of an original research proposal. Topics included are: problem definition, literature survey, resource bibliography, and research design, including proposed data analysis. Normally taken in the spring term of the junior year, this course is open only to Biology majors.

Prerequisite: 23.408 Biostatistics, 33.107 Principles of Chemistry, and 33.108 Principles of Chemistry and Quantitative Analysis or equivalent, and at least four biology courses at the 200 level or above.

23.407 Methods in Biological Research II

A continuation of Methods I (23.406) in which the students implement their research design under the supervision of a department faculty member. The research may be conducted off-campus with approval of course coordinator. Open only to Biology majors.

Prerequisite: 23.406 Methods in Biological Research I.

23.408 Ecology

An advanced course that synthesizes knowledge gained in other courses and applies it to ecological problems. Emphasis is placed on the interactions between the organism and its biological and physical environments. Concepts that will be covered include soil, climate, trophic systems, life history trade offs, behavioral ecology, biodiversity, and human impact. Laboratory, including required field trips.

Prerequisites: 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology; or Biological Concepts and 33.107 Principles of Chemistry, and three (3) additional science courses or permission of the instructor.

23.409 Developmental Biology

A study of developing organisms. Growth, regulation, differentiation and morphogenesis are considered. Emphasis is placed on molecular mechanisms. Laboratory exercises include both descriptive and experimental embryology.

Prerequisite: 23.301 Genetics and 33.207 Organic Chemistry I

23.411 Food Microbiology

A focus on those microorganisms involved in food production, food spoilage, and the transmission of diseases through foods. The effect of various methods of food preservation is evaluated in terms of public health, food spoilage, food quality, and nutritional value of foods. Laboratory.

Prerequisite: 23.307 Principles of Microbiology.

23.417 Endocrinology

A study of endocrine glands, the hormones they secrete, and the effects these hormones have on their target tissues. The course examines the mechanisms of the action of hormones at the molecular, cellular, organ, and physiological levels, as well as their effects on development of the individual. Topics covered include the role of hormones in male and female reproduction, pregnancy, parturition, lactation, growth, diabetes, and exercise. In the laboratory, students perform experiments involving small animal surgery and injection of hormones.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry and one of the following biology courses: 23.234 Comparative Vertebrate Physiology, 23.272 Human Anatomy and Physiology I, 23.260 Cell Biology; or permission of the instructor.

23.435 Recombinant DNA Techniques

Designed to familiarize the student with the processes and techniques employed by the biotechnology industry to produce recombinant products. The theoretical foundations for recombinant DNA methodology as well as medical, forensic, and commercial applications of genetic engineering are considered. Laboratory exercises include DNA isolation, restriction enzyme mapping, cloning to selectable vectors, gel electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing, and selected protein purification methodologies.

Prerequisites: 23.301 Genetics and 23.307 Principles of Microbiology.

23.451 Plant Physiology

An introduction to basic processes that regulate plant growth and development. Photosynthesis, photomorphogenesis, hormonal control, and mineral acquisition are emphasized. The laboratory has an open-ended design with an emphasis on repeatability of experimental results.

Prerequisites: 33.107 Principles of Chemistry; 23.160 Introduction to Organismal Biology and 23.161 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology or 23.101 Biological Concepts.

23.456 Neighborhood Botany

Designed to acquaint the student with the tools for identifying the flowering plants and conifers in the local flora.  The course will include vegetative and floral morphology, use and construction of botanical keys and collecting techniques.

23.457 Quantitative Plant Ecology

An introduction to the principles and techniques of ecology as they apply to plants in terrestrial and aquatic habitats. The course covers physiological ecology, as well as population-and community-level processes. Laboratory emphasizes techniques for quantitative sampling and analysis. Occasional field trips.

Prerequisite: 23.251 Vascular Plant Taxonomy or permission of the instructor.

23.490 Independent Study in Biology

An opportunity for the Biology major to work independently in an area relevant to the student’s special interests. Each student’s experience is planned in cooperation with a department member. Progress reports and final written and oral reports are required.

Prerequisites: Biology major of junior or senior standing, two semesters completed at Framingham State College, overall QPA of 2.50, and approval of the department chair. The independent study option is reserved for those students who have previously demonstrated sufficient motivation and self-discipline to work independently.

23.496 Internship in Biology

A supervised field study in the area of the student’s interest that complements formal course work. The internship program is offered through cooperation of participating institutions that provide guidance for the interns. A minimum of 160 on-site hours is necessary to complete the internship in Biology. The 160 hours must be completed within one semester. The internship in Biology may be taken for one (1) course credit in the major as a free elective. A student may not enroll in an internship more than twice (two course credits). Any student interested in participating in an internship must consult with the Biology Department chair prior to the middle of the semester preceding the semester of the desired internship.

Prerequisites: Biology majors of senior standing, two semesters completed at Framingham State College, overall QPA of 2.50 with a 2.75 average in courses for the major, and approval of the department chair.

23.497 Internship in Biology

A supervised field study in the area of the student’s interest that complements formal course work. The internship program is offered through cooperation of participating institutions that provide guidance for the interns. A minimum of 160 on-site hours is necessary to complete the internship in Biology. The 160 hours must be completed within one semester. The internship in Biology may be taken for one (1) course credit in the major as a free elective. A student may not enroll in an internship more than twice (two course credits). Any student interested in participating in an internship must consult with the Biology Department chair prior to the middle of the semester preceding the semester of the desired internship.

Prerequisites: Biology majors of senior standing, two semesters completed at Framingham State College, overall QPA of 2.50 with a 2.75 average in courses for the major, and approval of the department chair.