The biology department offers bachelor’s degree programs in both biology and in environmental science. Students majoring in biology may complete the professional major leading to a bachelor of science in science degree, the biology teaching program leading to a bachelor of science degree, or the liberal arts major in biology leading to a bachelor of arts degree. Students majoring in environmental science complete a common core of courses in biology, chemistry, environmental science, and mathematics and select a concentration in either laboratory science or public policy to complete their environmental science program.

Glimpses into the molecular basis for life have caused biology to grow in scope in recent years, and opportunities in the field are commensurate with this growth. Providing knowledge that students will need about biology in the 21st century is a goal for the department. The biology department prepares students for (a) entrance into professional schools, such as medicine, dentistry or optometry, (b) entrance into graduate school in biological fields, (c) teaching careers in middle and secondary schools, and (d) research and application of biology in industry positions.

Students who choose biology as a professional major in the bachelor of science in science degree complete forty-two hours in biology and environmental science, including BI 161/L, 222/L, 261/L, 321/L; 362/L or 442/L; 451; ES 211/L; and sixteen additional hours from biology and environmental science, including at least two courses from BI 342/L, 371/L, 422/L, 432/L, 461 and 482. Also required are MA 151; CH 161/L, 162/L, 263/L and 264/L.; and PH 211/L and 212/L. For students planning to attend graduate or professional school, biochemistry and calculus are strongly recommended. BI 141 is a recommended elective in the freshman year.

Students who select biology as a major in the bachelor of arts degree complete BI 161/L, 222/L, 261/L, 321/L, 451; eight additional semester hours in biology, four of which must be in courses numbered 300 or above; MA 151; ES 211/L; CH 161/L and 162/L. BI 141 is a recommended elective in the freshman year.

The college minor in biology requires BI 161/L, 222/L, and 261/L; eleven additional semester hours in biology or environmental science, four of which must be in courses numbered 300 or above; and CH 161/L.

Students who complete a bachelor of science degree in biology education can be licensed in Indiana to teach science in middle school settings or biology in high school settings. The program requires BI 161/L, 222/L, 231/L or 342/L, 261/L, 321/L, 422/L, and 432/L; CH 161/L, 162/L, 263/L; MA 151; ES 211/L, 262/L; PH 211/L, and 212/L. BI 141 is a recommended elective in the freshman year. Students preparing to teach biology are encouraged to complete a college minor in chemistry (or physics) to strengthen their license and give them greater employment options.

The environmental science major provides preparation for employment in the private sector and government in various environmental fields, including environmental biology, ecology, wildlife biology and management, environmental chemistry, environmental law and policy, and pollution monitoring and control. As with other programs in the sciences, students develop analytical and problem-solving skills that enhance their employability and that prepare them for graduate school and potential admission to various professional schools such as law and business. The environmental science major will prepare students for service in professions that directly promote wise stewardship of the Earth as God’s creation.

The foundations for environmental science are primarily in the biological and chemical sciences, and therefore students complete introductory courses in those disciplines. The program provides students with a solid science foundation in biology and chemistry, and the mathematical skills in statistics needed to analyze and interpret data fosters critical thinking skills in science, develops students’ skills in written and oral communication, assists students in understanding their responsibility to be stewards of God’s creation, and equips students with tools to make informed decisions to improve societal stewardship.

Students who choose environmental science as a major in the bachelor of science degree complete BI 161/L, BI 261/L, CH 161/L, CH 162/L, ES 161, ES 211/L, ES 422/L, ES 451, ES 491, at least one course (3-4 hours) at the Au Sable Institute, MA 151, and course work needed to complete either the laboratory science or the public policy concentration. To complete the laboratory science concentration, students will complete 4 hours from BI 222/L, CH 333/L, and CH 263/L; and 6 to 8 hours from PH 211/L, PH 212/L, PH 323, or any course in biology or chemistry numbered above 161. To complete the public policy concentration, students will complete EB 321, 324, 413 and 421. BI 141 is a recommended elective in the freshman year for all environmental science majors.

Elective courses and licensing programs in field biology are available through a cooperative arrangement with the AuSable Institute of Environmental Studies. See the Academic Programs section on AuSable Institute earlier in this Catalog or contact the campus representative in the biology department for further information.

Pre-Medicine and Pre-Nursing

Pre-med students are advised to major in biology or chemistry with substantial course work in both, as well as electives in other areas of the liberal arts. Pre-nursing students should meet early with the pre-nursing advisor to determine the appropriate course work for the intended nursing school. Pre-professional study for physical therapy and other physical fitness promotion fields, utilizing a major in exercise science, is described in the Department of Physical Education, Exercise Science and Recreation.

BI 111 Biology in the Modern World (3)

This course is a general survey of biological principles for non-science majors. Students will study ecology and environmental stewardship, origins, nutrition, structure and function of the human body, disease, genetics, and biotechnology. Christian perspectives on these topics and applications to everyday life are emphasized. Must be taken concurrently with BI 111L.

BI 111L Laboratory for Biology in the Modern World (1)

Laboratory exercises illustrate biological concepts and provide experience with techniques in biology. Includes field trips, field measurements, and laboratory work. Must be taken concurrently with BI 111.

BI 141 Freshman Biology Seminar (2)

This course will introduce students to the biology major as well as prepare them for future studies in the sciences. The course will be organized around a topical theme of current interest, which will require that students attain some basic knowledge in an area of cell biology. Students will be provided with a foundation of scientific thought, critical analysis, research, and writing. The course is highly recommended for students planning to major in biology.

BI 161 Cell Biology (3)

Introduction to cellular organization, function, and genetics; includes biological molecules, energy transformations, differentiation and function of organelles and cells, enzymes, replication, translation, synthesis, and movement. Includes introduction to the processes used in investigating scientific phenomena and those used in communicating the findings of these investigations. Must be taken concurrently with BI 161L. Prerequisite: CH 161/L or concurrently

BI 161L Laboratory for Cell Biology (1)

Laboratory experiments and demonstrations which support or extend concepts presented in the lecture course. Must be taken with BI 161.

BI 222 Zoology (3)

Survey of major invertebrate phyla and the chordates, emphasizing anatomy, physiology, classification, adaptations, behavior, evolution, ecological relationships, and the relation of zoology to the broad areas of biology. Must be taken concurrently with BI 222L. Prerequisite: BI 161/L or concurrently

BI 222L Laboratory for Zoology (1)

Study of the structure and function of representative animals from many different phyla, from sponges through increasing complexity to the vertebrates. Dissection and microscope slides are used to investigate. Must be taken with BI 222.

BI 231 Human Anatomy and Physiology (3)

Study of gross and microscopic human anatomy and the maintenance and regulation functions of cells, tissues and organ systems. Designed to meet the need of physical education and psychology majors. Must be taken concurrently with BI 231L. Prerequisite: BI 111 or 161

BI 231L Laboratory for Human Anatomy and Physiology (1)

Physiological experiments on human subjects using the respirometer, physiograph and other equipment. Anatomy is studied using preserved human and sheep material, models and microslides. Must be taken with BI 231.

BI 261 Botany (3)

Survey of algae, fungi, and plants. Topics include diversity, evolution, ecology, morphology and anatomy, reproduction, physiology, biotechnology, current issues involving botany, and the relation of botany to the broad areas of biology. The importance of plants to humans will also be discussed. Must be taken concurrently with BI 261L. Prerequisite: BI 161/L and CH 161/L

BI 261L Laboratory for Botany (1)

Exploration of algae, fungi and plants, including taxonomy, life cycles, morphology and anatomy, physiology and ecology. Laboratory work and field trips are included. Must be taken with BI 261.

BI 271 Nutrition (3)

A general course designed to address dietary needs of individuals of all ages. Some attention will be given to the role of the nurse, dietician, and community agencies in promoting good health through the proper use of food.

BI 321 Genetics (3)

A study of heredity at the classical Mendelian, molecular, and population levels. Emphasis will be placed on the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription, translation, gene expression, cloning, and related topics. Must be taken concurrently with BI 321L. Prerequisite: one course in college biology

BI 321L Laboratory for Genetics (1)

Laboratory experiments investigating genetic phenomena in microorganisms, Drosophila, corn and mammals. Must be taken with BI 321.

BI 342 Human Physiology (3)

A systems approach is used to study the physical, chemical, and biological processes that contribute to the function of the human body. Discussion will focus on the integral role of each system in maintaining homeostasis. Must be taken concurrently with BI 342L. Prerequisite: BI 161/L and 222/L, and CH 161/L and 162/L

BI 342L Laboratory for Human Physiology (1)

Functions of various organs and organ systems are investigated using the human, frog, and turtle. Techniques include respirometry, electrocardiography and urinalysis. Must be taken with BI 342.

BI 362 Plant Physiology (3)

Study of the physiological functions of plants in response to their environment and in terms of their structure. Includes water relations, photosynthesis, mineral nutrition, and hormonal regulation of plant development. Prerequisite: BI 161/L and 261/L

BI 362L Laboratory for Plant Physiology (1)

Practice of modern laboratory techniques in the measurement of plant water and mineral balance, measurement of photosynthetic rate, extraction and separation of plant pigments, experiments with plant hormones, and tissue culturing techniques. Must be taken with BI 362.

BI 371 Comparative Embryology (3)

A study of developmental biology of invertebrates and vertebrates. Includes gametogenesis, fertilization, blastulation, gastrulation, neurulation, and organogenesis. Must be taken concurrently with BI 371L. Prerequisite: BI 222/L

BI 371L Laboratory for Comparative Embryology (1)

Study of living and preserved gametes and embryos during development. Observation and experimentation will focus on slime molds, sea urchins, frogs, and chickens. Must be taken with BI 371.

BI 422 Ecology (3)

Study of the relationships between organisms and their physical and biological environments. Includes effects of the physical environment on plants and animals, population biology and natural selection, and community ecology and dynamics such as succession. Must be taken with BI 422L.

BI 422L Laboratory for Ecology (1)

Measurements of physical conditions, soils, plant type and distribution, and other field activities will be performed. Predator-prey interactions will be simulated. Field trips will be taken to observe dune succession and bog ecology. Must be taken with BI 422.

BI 432 Microbiology (2)

Structure and function of viruses, bacteria, and protists, microbial genetics, survey of infectious diseases, immunology, the role of microorganisms in nature, and the relation of microbiology to the broad areas of biology. Must be taken concurrently with BI 432L. Prerequisite: BI 161/L

BI 432L Laboratory for Microbiology (2)

Sterile technique, identification of microorganisms through use of staining techniques, growth characteristics, and diagnostic media, preparation of microscope slides, uses of antibiotics and antiseptics, and immunological tests. Must be taken with BI 432.

BI 442 Plant Anatomy and Morphology (3)

Morphology of the organs (roots, stems, leaves and flowers) of higher plants and the anatomy of the tissues that comprise these organs will be examined. Must be taken with BI 442L. Prerequisite: BI 261

BI 442L Laboratory for Plant Anatomy and Morphology (1)

Live specimens and prepared slides of the plants organs will be examined using the light microscope. Must be taken with BI 442.

BI 451 Seminar in Biology (2)

Students prepare a major research paper on a topic of their choice in biology and present the information in a formal seminar setting. Graduate and professional degree programs and career opportunities in biology are discussed and students prepare a resume. A portion of class time is devoted to examining the philosophical, moral and ethical aspects of biology with discussions based on assigned readings. Particular attention is given to Christian perspectives. Prerequisite: Junior biology major or consent

BI 461 Introduction to Neuroscience (3)

A study of nervous system organization, function, and development. Topics include neuronal cell biology, molecular biology, and physiology. We will also discuss higher brain functions and human nervous system disorders as well as the neural basis of behavior.

BI 482 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy (3)

Study of the anatomical, physiological, and phylogenetic relationships among the vertebrates. Written assignments, student presentations and lab work each week. Animals dissected include lancelets, sharks, and mink or cats. Prerequisite: BI 161 and 222

BI 490 Independent Study (1-4)

Experiments or special projects will be selected according to the interest of the student and will be performed on an individual basis. Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent

ES 161 Introduction to Environmental Science (3)

An introduction to environmental science, including ecological principles, biodiversity, pollution issues, environmental policy and laws, and the scientific and ethical implications of human interaction with the environment.

ES 211 Environmental Resources (3)

Survey of world environmental history with a focus on the United States. Discussion of current problems and practices involved in the use and conservation of water, tropical and temperate forests, soil, energy sources, agricultural and crop genetic resources, and control of pollution. Must be taken currently with ES 211L.

ES 211L Laboratory for Environmental Resources (1)

Visits to selected sites and activities involving environmental management. Most field trips will involve a two-hour laboratory period but some may involve a full day. Must be taken currently with ES 211.

ES 262 Physical Geography (3)

Survey of basic statics and dynamics of the physical world as these affect human cultural development and demographic trends. Extensive development of conceptual models. Must be taken concurrently with ES 262L.

ES 262L Laboratory for Physical Geography (1)

Practice in the interpretation of space-time phenomena, data analysis, mapping, elementary geology, landforms, weather and climate, soils and aerial photograph interpretation. Must be taken with ES 262.

ES 422 Ecology (3)

Study of the relationships between organisms and their physical and biological environments. Includes effects of the physical environment on plants and animals, population biology and natural selection, and community ecology and dynamics such as succession. Identical with BI 422. Must be taken currently with ES 422L.

ES 422L Laboratory for Ecology (1)

Measurements of physical conditions, soils, plant type and distribution, and other field activities will be performed. Predator-prey interactions will be simulated. Field trips will be taken to observe dune succession and bog ecology. Identical with BI 422L. Must be taken currently with ES 422.

ES 451 Seminar in Environmental Science (2)

Students prepare a major research paper on a topic of their choice in environmental science, and present the information in a formal seminar setting. Graduate and professional degree programs and career opportunities in environmental science are discussed, and students prepare a resume. A portion of the time is devoted to examining the philosophical, moral and ethical aspects of environmental science with discussions based on assigned readings. Particular attention is given to the Christian perspective. Meets with BI 451. Prerequisite: Junior environmental science major or consent

ES 491 Internship in Environmental Science (4)

Students will complete a supervised internship in a governmental or not-for-profit agency or in the private sector. Prerequisite: Senior environmental science major or consent

Summer, Fall, Spring

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