Department of Biology
The Biology Department offers bachelor’s degree programs in biology. Students majoring in biology may complete the professional major leading to a bachelor of science degree, the pre-veterinary emphasis leading to a bachelor of 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.
Program in Biology
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 twenty-first century is a goal for the department. The Biology Department prepares students for (a) entrance into professional schools, such as medicine, dentistry, optometry, or veterinary; (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.
Biology majors and minors must demonstrate satisfactory mathematics placement scores prior to enrolling in their intended chemistry, mathematics or physics courses (see Mathematics Placement Policy).
Students who choose biology as a professional major in the bachelor of science degree complete 42 hours in biology and environmental science, including BI 161/L, 222/L, 261/L, 321/L, 451; ES 211/L; and 21 additional hours from biology and environmental science, including at least three courses from BI 342/L, 371/L, 422/L, 432/L and 462/L. 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 highly recommended elective in the freshman year.
Students who choose biology as a major with a pre-veterinary emphasis in the bachelor of science degree complete BI 161/L, 222/L, 261/L, 321/L, 432/L, and 451; and 18 additional hours from biology or agriculture courses, including at least three courses from AG 231/L, 351/L, BI 322/L, 371/L, 422/L (or AG 241), and ES 211/L. Also required are MA 151; CH 161/L, 162/L, 263/L, 264/L, 411; and PH 211/L and 212/L. Pre-vet students are strongly advised to take several business courses, especially BA 232, 252, and 331. BI 141 is a highly recommended elective in the freshman year. More information regarding Pre-Veterinary Study is listed under Degrees and Programs, Pre-Veterinary Study.
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 highly recommended elective in the freshman year.
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, 261/L, 321/L, 342/L, 422/L, and 432/L; CH 161/L, 162/L, 263/L; MA 151; ES 211/L, 262; PH 211/L and 212/L. BI 141 is a highly recommended elective in the freshman year. Refer to the Department of Education for education courses required for teacher licensing. Students preparing to teach biology are encouraged to complete a minor in chemistry to strengthen their license and give them greater employment options.
The minor in biology requires BI 161/L, 222/L, and 261/L; eight additional semester hours in biology or environmental science, four of which must be in courses numbered 300 or above; and CH 161/L.
The minor in nutrition is for students interested in providing nutritional care and education related to health, disease prevention and wellness. The nutrition minor requires BI 271, 311, 312; CH 141/L; and six hours of electives from BI 232/L, 241/L or 242/L, 251, 490, EX 418, 425, NU 490, PY 221, 230, and 351.
Environmental Science
The minor in environmental science is available to students who wish to take a concentration of courses related to environmental stewardship and sustainability. This program is open to students from all majors and may be of particular interest for those considering careers in missions and development, conservation and wildlife biology, agriculture, public health, environmental law and policy, or civil service. Environmental science is a highly interdisciplinary field and students in the minor can choose from electives that reflect their specific interests within the discipline.
The environmental science minor requires ES 211/L; BI 222/L or 261/L; BI 422/L or AG 241; one course from Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies; and six to eight additional semester hours from BI 222/L or 261/L (if not taken above), AG 331/L (=ES 331/L), PS 171, CH 331/L, 333/L, ES 262, EB 321, 413, 421, CO 322, and courses from Au Sable Institute. MA 151 is recommended for the core mathematics requirement.
Forensic Science
The forensic science minor provides a focus on forensic science for students interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice or crime labs. The minor complements existing majors in biology, chemistry and criminal justice. The minor in forensic science requires BI 131, 161/L, 396 (3 hours); CH 161/L, 162/L; CH 331/L or CH 333/L; CJ 111 or CJ 345; and four hours from BI 241/L, 321/L, or 432/L.
Pre-Medicine
Pre-medical students are advised to major in biology or chemistry with substantial coursework in both, as well as electives in other areas of the liberal arts. Recommended coursework for pre-medical and health professions is listed under Degrees and Programs, Pre-Medical Study.
Agricultural Studies
Students interested in agriculture may want to pursue a major in animal science, a major in crop science and agronomy, or a major or minor in agribusiness. (See the Department of Agricultural Studies for more information regarding these majors or minor.)
Courses in Biology
A broad survey of biology for non-science majors. Topics covered include the process of science, molecular biology and genetics, origins of life, biotechnology, biology of plants, ecology and environmental stewardship, structure and function of the human body, and disease and immunity. Contemporary issues in biology are examined from a Christian perspective, including human reproductive technologies, genetic engineering, species extinctions, and climate change.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 111L.
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.
This course will serve to introduce the student to the field of forensic investigation, primarily as it applies to criminal investigation. Areas of discussion will include crime scene investigation, the nature of physical evidence, analysis of evidence, ethical practice and the relationship between forensic science and social justice.
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.
All living things are built from cells. Therefore, understanding the components of cells and how they function is foundational knowledge to all of biology. This course introduces the basic principles of cell structure and function. Topics covered include a wide array of topics, including biological macromolecules, enzymes and cellular energetics, DNA replication and translation, gene expression, cellular components and organelles, cell signaling, and the cell cycle. Discussion includes how scientific knowledge is discovered and communicated.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 161L.
Prerequisite: CH 141/L or 161/L
This laboratory course is designed to help students apply the concepts and content covered in Cell Biology lecture through observation, hands-on investigation, and experimentation. Students gain experience working with equipment and techniques used in cell biology and will develop skills that are relevant to this field of study. Laboratory topics include microscopy, enzyme kinetics, DNA extraction and PCR, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, cell membranes, and mitosis.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 161.
Students observe the daily routines and activities of employed professionals and see how skills and knowledge acquired in class are applied in the biology field.
Prerequisite: Consent
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 environmental science minor
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 concurrently with BI 222.
This course is designed for students in allied health programs. Emphasis is on disease-causing organisms relevant to the health sciences while introducing the structure and function of bacteria, viruses, protists, and fungi. Additional topics covered include microbial metabolism, methods of microbial control, the use of antiseptics and antibiotics, diagnosis of infections, epidemiological methods, and an introduction to human immune system function.
This course does not fulfill requirements in the biology major. Must be taken concurrently with BI 232L.
Prerequisite: CH 141/L
This laboratory course is designed for students in allied health programs. Emphasis is on hands-on experiences and skill acquisition as students learn aseptic technique, microscopy, simple and differential staining techniques, the culturing of microorganisms, epidemiological methods, and identification of unknown bacterial samples.
This course does not fulfill requirements in the biology major. Must be taken concurrently with BI 232.
Prerequisite: CH 141/L
An introduction to the form and function of the human body. Topics include the basic biochemical and cellular foundations of the body as well as the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. Disorders of each system will be introduced as appropriate.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 241L.
Laboratory experiences to complement the topics discussed in lecture. Computer and Web-based technologies will be used to complement hands-on learning in the lab.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 241.
A further introduction to the form and function of the human body. Topics include the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Human development and genetics will also briefly be discussed. Disorders of each system will be introduced as appropriate.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 242L.
Prerequisite: BI 241/L
Laboratory experiences to complement the topics discussed in lecture. Computer and Web-based technologies will be used to complement hands-on learning in the lab. Cats will be used for dissections.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 242.
Chemistry, microbiology and processing of foods. Food additives, food safety and biotechnology of foods. Regulatory aspects of food processing, quality, safety and labeling. Manufacturing practices to ensure food quality and safety.
Identical with AG 251.
Prerequisite: CH 141/L or 161/L
This course provides a broad, integrated overview of plant biology. Topics include a survey of plant diversity, composition of plant cells, energetics, structure and development of the plant body, reproduction, physiology, evolution, biotechnology, and cutting-edge issues such as plant sensing and communication. This course also explores the relationships between humans and plants, the role plants play in the Bible, the historical development of botany as a scientific field, and the importance of plants in agriculture and the development of human civilization.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 261L.
Prerequisite: BI 161/L or environmental science minor
This laboratory course consists of both field trips and indoor laboratories that provide hands-on experiences with plant diversity, taxonomy, life cycles, anatomy, and physiology. Emphasis is on several practical skills related to plant biology, including plant identification with field guides and ID applications, the collection and processing of herbarium samples, and the use and construction of dichotomous keys. A major component of the lab is an independent team research project which involves growing live plants.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 261.
A general course designed to address dietary needs of individuals across the lifespan. Students are introduced to dietary guidelines and nutritional standards. 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.
Identical with EX 271.
This course introduces medical words and terms through an analysis of their construction, including prefix, suffix, root, connecting and combining forms. Medical meanings applicable to the structure, function and diseases of the human body are stressed.
Identical with EX 287.
Practicum in some aspect of biology designed to give student practical, directed experience.
Prerequisite: Consent
The sources, digestion, absorption and metabolism of nutrients focusing on carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins and minerals. The course will integrate knowledge from the Introduction to Biological Chemistry and the Nutrition course to understand the process of metabolism.
Prerequisites: CH 141/L and BI 271
Examines methods and techniques for assessing and educating individuals and populations related to nutrition. Students will address nutritional issues related to culture, religion and age.
Prerequisites: CH 141/L and BI 271
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: BI 161/L
Laboratory experiments investigating genetic phenomena in micro-organisms, Drosophila, corn and mammals.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 321.
Structure and function of animal body systems, with reference to farm animals. Includes tissues, organs and systems and their physiological functions. Tissue and organ systems covered include blood, nervous, sensory, endocrine, skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, digestive, reproductive and lactation.
Identical with AG 322. Must be taken concurrently with BI 322L.
Prerequisite: AG 231/L
Laboratory experiments and demonstrations which support, extend, or complement the concepts presented in the lecture course.
Identical with AG 322L. Must be taken concurrently with BI 322.
Maintaining the health of farm animals through an understanding of diseases caused or influenced by pathogens, inadequate nutrition or environmental hazards. Management of animal diseases that affect humans. Animal welfare and ethical issues in managing animals.
Identical with AG 323.
Prerequisite: AG 231/L
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.
Prerequisites: BI 161/L and 222/L, and CH 161/L and 162/L
Functions of various organs and organ systems are investigated using the human, frog and turtle. Techniques include respirometry, electrocardiography and urinalysis.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 342.
Fundamental physiological processes of reproduction in farm animals. Male and female reproductive systems and function, endocrine relationships, fertility and factors affecting reproductive efficiency. Current methods used in managing farm animal reproduction, including artificial insemination and embryo transfer. Population and quantitative genetics as they relate to animal breeding and mating systems used for the improvement of various livestock/farm animal species and breeds.
Identical with AG 365. Must be taken concurrently with BI 365L.
Prerequisites: AG 231/L, 322/L and BI 321/L
Laboratory experiments and demonstrations which support, extend, or complement the concepts presented in the lecture course.
Identical with AG 365L. Must be taken concurrently with BI 365.
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
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 concurrently with BI 371.
Overview of how cell types differentiate, how tissues develop, and how bodies grow throughout the lifespan of mammals, bird, etc. Changes during prenatal and postnatal growth and development will be discussed. This course does not include a lab component.
Identical with AG 373.
Prerequisite: BI 161/L
Practicum in some aspect of biology designed to give student practical, directed experience.
Prerequisite: Consent
The student will participate in a supervised learning experience in a professional setting related to the emphasis of the student's forensics minor, such as forensics laboratory, police department, coroner's office or criminal investigation agency. A minimum of 120 contact hours must be completed, along with a written report of the experience. Students are encouraged to complete the practicum during summer when feasible. Students must fill out an application at least one semester in advance in the Friesen Center for Service and Experiential Learning, in coordination with the faculty advisor, and obtain appropriate background checks.
Prerequisite: BI 131
Ecology is the study of how organisms interact with each other and their environment. Major topics include the influence of the physical environment on organisms, population biology, behavioral ecology, the relationship between evolution and ecology, species interactions, community ecology and dynamics, ecosystem ecology, and applied ecology. Students learn how to integrate ecological thinking with their own worldview and faith.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 422L.
This laboratory course is designed to apply the concepts and content learned in Ecology lecture through observation, hands-on investigation, and experimentation. Students gain experience working with the equipment, techniques and statistical analyses used by ecologists and develop skills relevant to this field. Multi-week laboratories and a team-based independent research project emphasize field experiences, data collection and processing, and presentation of results via research posters and presentations.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 422.
This course focuses on a broad, integrated overview of microbiology and emphasizes both medical and ecological microbiology. Topics include microbial structure and metabolism, microscopy, control of microbial growth, virology, human innate and adaptive immunity, microbial pathogenesis, antimicrobial therapy, a survey of microbial diseases, microbial genetics, bacterial and archaeal diversity, and biotech and industrial microbiology. Christian perspectives on the complex and interdependent relationships between humans and microbes are discussed.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 432L.
Prerequisite: BI 161/L
This laboratory course emphasizes hands-on experiences and skill acquisition as students learn aseptic technique, microscopy, simple and differential staining techniques, how to culture microorganisms, methods for controlling microbial growth, the use of antibiotics and antiseptics, and epidemiological methods. The course concludes with an independent project involving the identification of unknown bacterial samples using diagnostic media and biochemical tests.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 432.
The course operates as a capstone seminar for biology majors and focuses on the synthesis and integration of scientific knowledge in a faith context. Readings and class discussion center on current philosophical, moral, and ethical issues in biology. Students prepare a major paper, in the style of a scientific review article, on a topic of their choice and present the paper in a formal seminar setting. Some time is dedicated towards graduate programs and career opportunities in the sciences and writing and improving resumes.
Prerequisite: Junior biology major
An in-depth examination of cell structure and function, including topics such as membrane structure and function, bioenergetics, cell motility and communication, gene expression, and cancer. This course will primarily focus on eukaryotic cells, although some topics will also include prokaryotes.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 462L.
Prerequisite: BI 321/L
Experiments will employ techniques and equipment designed to investigate cell structure and function as well as biomolecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins. Techniques will include recombinant DNA, fractionation, isolation, purification of proteins and PCR.
Must be taken concurrently with BI 462.
Experiments or special projects will be selected according to the interest of the student and will be performed on an individual basis.
Prerequisites: Junior standing and consent
A field experience in biology which provides an opportunity for the student to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Student maintains close cooperation with the supervisory personnel in the field.
Prerequisite: Consent
Courses in Environmental Science
This course surveys world environmental history with a focus on modern global issues in natural resource management. Topics discussed include the use and conservation of freshwater and marine resources, forests, minerals, soil and agriculture, traditional and renewable energy sources, waste management, environmental policy and Christian stewardship, climate change, biodiversity, and conservation biology.
Must be taken concurrently with ES 211L.
This laboratory course emphasizes in-person experiences through field trips to local resource management sites and hands-on investigative laboratories. During field trips students meet with resource management professionals at their place of work and gain experience with some of the equipment and techniques used in their field. Field trips and laboratories include topics such as campus sustainability, waste management, forestry, invasive species, local food production, mineral extraction, alternative energy sources, and habitat restoration.
Must be taken concurrently with ES 211.
Survey of basic statics and dynamics of the physical world as these affect human cultural development and demographic trends. Extensive development of conceptual models.
A comprehensive introduction to the field of soil science, covering soil physical, chemical, and biological properties; soil formation and classification; and soil conversation and management. Environmental sustainability, efficient food production, and soil health are overarching themes. This course includes a lab component.
Identical with AG 331. Must be taken concurrently with ES 331L.
Prerequisite: AG 221/L recommended
Laboratory experiments and demonstrations which support, extend, or complement the concepts presented in the lecture course.
Identical with AG 331L. Must be taken concurrently with ES 331.