May 17, 2024  
2018-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2018-2020 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


Core Curriculum Requirements
The Core Foundation/Proficiency attribute search terms are:

  • Civic Engagement, Diversity, Ethics, Fine Arts, Natural Science, Oral Communication, Philosophy, Physics-Based Natural Science, Quantitative Reasoning, Social Science, Theology, Writing I, Writing II

To search in the Catalog for courses that meet specific Core Foundation/Proficiency attributes, there are three options:

  1. Use the Course Filter on the Course Descriptions page. Enter your desired search term in the “Keyword or Phrase” box and check the box beneath for “Find whole word or phrase only.”
  2. Enter the desired search term, in quotes, in the Publication Search box.
  3. Use the Advanced Search feature of the Publication Search. Click on the Advanced Search button and type in the desired search term in the “Enter a keyword or phrase” field, check the box beneath for “Find whole word or phrase only.”, and leave only the Courses checkbox checked. This will ensure that only courses containing the desired search term show.

In addition, users may visit the Core Curriculum site for a listing of courses that have been approved for specific Core Curriculum requirements and/or search the Semester Course Offerings in CyberFriar.

Need assistance? Please contact the Office of the Registrar or 401.865.1033.

 

Art

  
  • ART 205 - Design Thinking & Innovative Problem Solving


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Design thinking is an approach designers take to problem solving through an iterative process of research, idea-generation, and experimentation. This process yields insight and solutions for virtually any type of challenge, whether in the arena of visual design, business, or public service. It embraces visual thinking (including sketching, diagramming, and making) as critical tools in developing, understanding, and communicating ideas.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ART 213 - Drawing III


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    A continuation of Drawing II and an introduction to projects requiring longer preparation. Students may begin to work in color. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 112.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ART 218 - Asian Art Through Virtual Reality Games


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Provides a strong humanities education backed by virtual reality technology. This course aims to design a new experience through virtual reality games to facilitate the understanding of art history and world heritage in Asia. This course will teach technology such as virtual reality, augmented reality, photogrammetry, 360 videos, and drones.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ART 223 - Sculpture III: Life Sculpture


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    The human form is investigated directly from a model. In addition, the student will do studies of the head, hands, and feet. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 121.


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  • ART 233 - Painting III


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    An advanced course in painting in which the student is encouraged to develop an expanded vocabulary of forms through research and technical exploration. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 132.


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  • ART 242 - Digital Imaging: Etching


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Utilizes the computer and drawing to produce full color images in a traditional print medium, intaglio etching. Through a series of lecture demonstrations, there will be an introduction to hands-on drawing experience, plate preparation, and Photoshop visual imaging software. Experience in drawing or Photoshop is not required, although some computer literacy would be useful. This course requires six class hours per week.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ART 243 - Digital Imaging: Screenprinting


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Through a series of lecture demonstrations, Photoshop visual imaging software, and drawing will be used to explore full-color images in screenprinting. As in ART 242, experience in drawing or Photoshop is not required, although some computer literacy would be helpful. This course requires six class hours per week.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ART 246 - Digital Imaging: Type/Design/Art


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    This studio course uses computers and drawing to investigate typography as an art form. There will be a thorough review of the history and construction of typefaces since the Renaissance and each person will use the computer to research, draw, and create a new and unique typeface. This course requires six class hours per week.


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  • ART 253 - Ceramics III: Advanced Wheelwork


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Ceramics majors develop a personal sense of direction with assignments that increase skill and artistry. Students learn to relate their work to historical and contemporary traditions. Glaze chemistry will also be introduced so that the student can begin the process of involvement with the technical demands of glazing. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 152.


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  • ART 272 - Photography: Advanced Darkroom Practice


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Required of all studio art majors concentrating in photography. A continuation of Photography I. The intermediate student is encouraged to develop his/her own style through a series of technique-oriented projects. The class is structured around weekly critiques of student work. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 171 or permission of the instructor.


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  • ART 273 - Introduction to Digital Photography: Digital Workflow and Concept


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Required of all studio art majors concentrating in photography. An introduction to color photography. The student will also be required to produce a high level of design and finish. This course requires six class hours per week.


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  • ART 289 - Bauhaus Design


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    When the Bauhaus opened in 1919 in the aftermath of a devastating world war, it envisioned a new kind of Artist who would be comfortable in a variety of media. This is the interactive experience of being at the Bauhaus; each week will combine discussion of the history and personalities of the school with the creation of a Bauhaus inspired object. Same as MKT 292.


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  • ART 301 - Development of North American Architecture


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Civic Engagement

    A study of North American architecture and the cultural context in which it was produced, from the 17th century to the present.  Same as ARH 301 and AMS 301. Prerequisite: ARH 106 or permission of the instructor.


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  • ART 314 - Drawing IV


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Advanced work dealing with more innovative aspects of drawing, encouraging exploration of personal forms and themes as well as research and technical exploration. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 213.


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  • ART 315 - Drawing V


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Advanced study in drawing through an independent study program prearranged with the instructor. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 314.


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  • ART 333 - Community Lens


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Civic Engagement; Fine Arts

    Examines the concept and practice of community and social change through the lens of photography. Students learn digital photography skills, engage in a community-based photography project, and produce a final photo exhibition. Same as GST 333 and PSP 333.


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  • ART 345 - Printmaking V: Advanced Screenprinting


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Advanced non-toxic screen printing. Continued investigation including larger format, photographic ideas, and the ability to produce a limited edition. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 243.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ART 354 - Ceramics IV: Sculpture


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Development of concepts, objects, installations, and environments using ceramic materials. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 152.


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  • ART 355 - Ceramics V: Production


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Students will explore various production processes. Attention will be given to casting methods, hand building, and wheelwork. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 152.


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  • ART 374 - Photography: Concept and Process


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    An advanced color and black and white course. Students will continue perfecting their color skills, but will also be introduced to experimental color and black and white projects structured to expand photography beyond the continuous tone image. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 171 or ART 273 or permission of the instructor.


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  • ART 375 - Photography: Digital Workflow in Large Format Photography


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Required of all studio art majors concentrating in photography. An introduction to large-format photography, structured around the 4 x 5 view camera, with projects in portrait, still life, and architectural photography. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 171 or ART 273 or permission of the instructor.


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  • ART 379 - Special Topics


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Topics discussed in the seminar will vary from semester to semester, meeting a core requirement or proficiency. This course requires six class hours per week.


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  • ART 400 - Senior Seminar in Studio Art


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Oral Communication

    Required for all seniors majoring in studio art. A combined seminar/studio aimed at increasing students’ ability to develop independent artwork. Students will engage with contemporary art and prepare for a range of professional experiences and practices. Designed to prepare students for the capstone thesis exhibition in the spring. Prerequisite: limited to Senior Studio Art majors.


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  • ART 416 - Drawing VI


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Advanced study in drawing through an independent study program prearranged with the instructor. Work done in this course looks toward the senior thesis exhibition. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 315.


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  • ART 479 - Special Topics


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Topics discussed in the seminar will vary from semester to semester, meeting a core requirement or proficiency. This course requires six class hours per week.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ART 490 - Independent Study


    1 semester, 3 credits-

     

    Open primarily to senior Art/Art History majors. In consultation with the faculty member, the student may propose to explore advanced topics in the field outside of the regular departmental offerings. The number of credits is determined by consultation with the faculty member responsible for the project and the chairperson. Prerequisite: Permission of the chairperson.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings



Art History

  
  • ARH 103 - Tribal and Village Art


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    A survey of the arts of Africa, Oceania, North and South America, including works of the Eskimos, American Indians, and South Sea Islanders.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ARH 104 - Asian Art


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    A survey of the arts of India, China, and Japan presented in their historical and cultural context. Same as AST 104.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ARH 106 - Art History Survey


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    A survey of the visual arts in relation to political, religious, social, economic, and aesthetic values from prehistoric times to the present, primarily focused on the Western tradition.


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  • ARH 110 - Introduction to Museum Studies


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    An introduction to the aims and methods of museums and curators with special emphasis upon study from original works, connoisseurship, and exposure to practical training. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 200 - Art of the Ancient Classical World (Crete, Greece, and Rome)


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    An introduction to art from Cycladic figures in the Aegean to the Parthenon in Athens; from the frescoes of Pompeii to the fall of Rome. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 204 - Medieval Art and Architecture


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    An introduction to Christian, Jewish, and Islamic art and architecture in Europe and Byzantium; from the fall of the Jerusalem Temple in the first century to the flourishing of Gothic cathedrals in the 14th century. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 205 - Italian Renaissance Art


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    A sociocultural study of painting, sculpture, and architecture in Florence, Rome, and Venice from ca. 1300-1600, featuring the work of Giotto, Brunelleschi, Donatello, Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 207 - American Art


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    An introduction to American painting, sculpture, and architecture from Colonial times to the present. Same as AMS 207. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 209 - Modern Art


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    An introduction to the various movements and trends in painting, architecture, and sculpture, from the end of the 19th century to the present. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 301 - Development of North American Architecture


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Civic Engagement; Fine Arts

    A study of North American architecture and the cultural context in which it was produced, from the 17th century to the present. Same as AMS 301 and ART 301. Prerequisite: ARH 106 or permission of the instructor.


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  • ARH 304 - American and European Art Since 1945


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Introduces major trends in Western, and especially American art post World War II. A variety of media will be addressed, including not only traditional visual arts, but a full range of new genres, as well. Social and cultural context for works of art and the shifts in style will be emphasized. Same as AMS 304.


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  • ARH 306 - Baroque and Rococo Art


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    A study of painting, sculpture, and architecture in the political, social, and religious context of 17th and 18th century Europe set in the context of patterns of patronage. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 307 - From Abraham to Alexander: The Art and Archaeology of the Ancient Middle East


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Introduction to the art and archaeology of ancient Middle Eastern cultures that formed the milieu for the Old Testament Hebrews. Translated texts supplement the analysis of Mesopotamian and Egyptian artistic achievements. Students learn Egyptian and Mesopotamian art from 3500 B.C. to the advent of Christianity.


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  • ARH 320 - Women in the Arts, 1960-Present


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity; Fine Arts

    Examines the contributions of women to the arts through an analysis of prominent and influential works in the visual, performing, and literary arts. Each artist’s work is considered not only in and of itself, but also as representative of its media, and against a backdrop of historical, sociological, and political circumstances surrounding female achievement. Same as TDF 320 and WMS 320.


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  • ARH 360 - Prehistoric Archaeology


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Introduces the student to the methods, theory, and interpretation of prehistoric archaeology, focusing on the evolution of human cultures, their subsistence technologies, and forms of social organization and ideology as revealed by the archaeological record, from the end of the Ice Ages to the rise of early civilizations in both the Old and New Worlds. Same as APG 360.


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  • ARH 380 - Interpretive Methods in Art History


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Oral Communication

    Introduces students to the variety of approaches to the interpretation of art, art history, and material culture. Required for all junior art history majors; open to other advanced students in related fields or with significant art historical background.


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  • ARH 444 - Sacred Space in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    Students examine sacred spaces within Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and analyze how architectural elements-boundary markers, altars, Torah shrines, mihrabs-generate categories of sacred/profane, pure/impure, and inclusion/exclusion. Students employ interdisciplinary approaches from art history, anthropology, women’s studies, and religion, and encounter diverse communities in off-campus visits to churches, synagogues, and mosques. No prerequisites; previous art history or theology courses encouraged.


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  • ARH 450 - Internship


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Offers advanced students’ academic credit for a supervised work and learning experience in an art-related organization. Students work with a faculty advisor and on-site supervisor to develop a series of structured assignments and prepare a final report. Interested students should contact the Art and Art History Department as early as possible. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and department chair, junior or senior status, and major in studio art or art history.


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  • ARH 490 - Independent Study


    1 semester, 1-3 credits-

     

    Open primarily to senior art history majors. In consultation with the faculty member, the student may propose to explore advanced topics in the field outside of the regular departmental offerings. The number of credits is determined by consultation with the faculty member responsible for the project and the chairperson.  Prerequisite: Permission of the chairperson.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • ARH 498 - Principles of Research


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Writing II

    Required of senior art history majors. In readings and seminar discussions, students learn bibliographical resources and utilize critical methodologies of the art historian in order to research and write a thesis.


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Asian Studies

  
  • AST 104 - Asian Art


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    A survey of the arts of India, China, and Japan presented in their historical and cultural context. Same as ARH 104.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  
  • AST 200 - Japanese Pop Culture as Postwar History


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    Interdisciplinary exploration of modern Japanese popular culture and as a way of understanding Japan’s postwar history. Examines such familiar pop-cultural objects as the samurai, baseball, giant monsters (kaijū), and Japanese animation (anime), among other topics, while also analyzing their historical context and appropriation in other milieu. Same as HIS 200.


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  • AST 298 - East Asian History I


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    A survey of East Asian history from its beginnings through the late-eighteenth century. Acquaints students with the major topics in early Chinese, Japanese, and Korean history and explores such themes as the construction of political authority, the place of marginal social groups, and the intercultural interactions that characterized the region’s history. Same as HIS 298.


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  • AST 299 - East Asian History II


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    A survey of modern East Asian history from the mid-nineteenth to the late twentieth centuries. Focuses on Asia’s transition to modernity, and such topics as the development of the modern nation-state in Japan, imperialism and revolution in China, Korea’s colonial period, the Second World War, and Asia’s place in the Cold War world. Same as HIS 299.


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  • AST 321 - Chinese Politics


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    Examines politics in the People’s Republic of China. Topics include, for example, politics and social structure prior to 1949, the Communist Party and Cultural Revolution, state society relations, ideology and religion, elite politics, grass roots mobilization, domestic and international consequences of market reforms, popular protest, and prospects for political liberalization. Same as PSC 321.


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  • AST 325 - Comparative Revolutions


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Surveys concepts and theories of revolution. Generalizations derived from studies of the great Western revolutions in England, France, and Russia will be re-examined in the light of recent experiences in China, Vietnam, Cuba, or Iran. Same as HIS 325.


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  • AST 369 - Modern China


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    An in-depth exploration of the history of China from the mid-nineteenth century to the present day. Topics include: the late Qing dynasty, Western imperialism in China, the 1911 Revolution, the Second World War, the rise of the People’s Republic, and the reform programs of the post-Mao era. Students will analyze the significant primary sources associated with pivotal moments in Chinese history and develop familiarity with the major issues in the field. Same as HIS 369.


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  • AST 488 - Warriors in Japanese History


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    Traces the figure of the warrior in Japanese history from ancient times to the twentieth century, with special emphasis on warriors’ changing social and cultural roles. Topics include medieval war tales, the genesis of the “way of the warrior” in the early modern era, and the modern re-appropriation of the warrior as a masculine ideal. Same as HIS 488.


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Biology

  
  • BIO 103 - General Biology: Cells and Organisms


    1 semester, 4 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    One of two complementary introductory courses intended for science majors, which covers cell structure, function, and energetics, with an emphasis on the flow of genetic information within the organism. These will be illustrated with physiological examples taken from a diversity of biological systems. Laboratory work consists of manual and visual experience with these topics. See   for specific policies related to the Natural Science Core requirement. Prerequisite: Chairperson permission required for non-science majors.


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  • BIO 104 - General Biology: Ecology and Evolution


    1 semester, 4 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    One of two complementary introductory courses intended for science majors, which covers genetics, ecology, and evolution, with an emphasis on the flow of genetic information among generations, populations, and species. Laboratory work consists of manual and visual experience with these topics. See   for specific policies related to the Natural Science Core requirement. Prerequisites: Chairperson permission required for non-science majors.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings


  
  • BIO 121 - Environmental Biology


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    Information is necessary in order to understand and act upon problems associated with overpopulation, resource depletion, air and water pollution, acid rain, ozone depletion, desertification, or nuclear wastes. Aims to develop a perspective based on fundamental properties of mass and energy flow through ecosystems. Intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 122 - Human Biology


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    Intended to present the principles of human biology designed to promote the understanding of the body. Subject matter will provide students with the ability to make informed decisions in their lives. The course will present cell theory, genetics, evolution, and human ecology. An analysis of the organ systems of the human body and their diseases are discussed. Intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 123 - Photobiology


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    There would be no life without light. Explores the dependence of organisms, from microbes to humans, on access to and utilization of sunlight as an energy source. Examines the ways organisms use and depend on light in processes such as photosynthesis, photoperiodicity, photomorphogenesis, vision, circadian rhythms, migration, and bioluminescence. The detrimental and beneficial effects of light on the ecosystem and in medicine are considered.


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  • BIO 124 - Ethnobotany, the Study of the Plants We Use


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    Examines the intimate relationship between humans and plants. Students will explore the origin, history, and use of food plants, medicinal plants, and ornamental plants. These plants will be placed not only in a cultural context, but in a biological context as well. A component of this course is occasional field trips. Intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 125 - Microbes and Man


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    Considers the microbial world and its interaction with human life. Although the beneficial aspect of microbes is considered, the emphasis is on the role of microbes as causative agents of disease from a public health point of view. Topics include the biology of microbes, a survey of major microbial diseases, antibiotic resistance, biological warfare and terrorism, and immunization. Intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 126 - Evolution and Modern Biology


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    An explanation of evolution at the non-technical level: DNA, proteins, gene mutation, variation, natural selection, and speciation. Digressions include viruses, cancer, genetic engineering, and topical issues. In the second half, macroevolutionary patterns from the history of life on Earth focus on human ancestry but with attention to diversity and extinction events in other kinds of organisms through time. Intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 128 - Food Politics


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    Food and political power have a long and interesting history. Currently, the West is enjoying a golden age of cheap food. How this cheap food came about, why the benefits of such a system are not more widely distributed, and why some are concerned about sustainability of these systems are the central topics. The main goal is to enhance science literacy by introducing the sustainability issues facing agriculture today in a historical framework. Discussion format with embedded lectures and activities.


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  • BIO 200 - Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Writing II

    Provides an introduction to cell biology and molecular genetics and is intended for sophomore biology majors. The course focuses on four major areas: fine structure of cells, intra- and intercellular communication, energetics, and the molecular organization and transfer of genetic information. Experimental design, methodology, and current biotechnological applications will be considered. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 201 - Comparative Anatomy


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    A lecture and laboratory course emphasizing evolution of general body plan, adult anatomy, and organ system homology. Laboratory dissection includes cats, sharks, and others, plus demonstration specimens. Although premedical students often have an interest in the course, it is intended as a general gateway for all further studies of vertebrate biology without special emphasis on human anatomy or clinical application. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 202 - Foundations of Environmental Biology


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    An introduction to environmental biology, ecology, and the relationship between humans and the natural world. A broad survey of environmental science with emphasis on the foundational components of biology, geology, biogeochemistry, and ecology. Prepares students for upper-level coursework and research within the Environmental Biology major, and draws on current events and case studies. Prerequisite: BIO 104.


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  • BIO 205 - Human Anatomy


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    Human organ systems from an integrated and functional perspective, especially for students preparing for non-medical school or allied health programs. The laboratory includes cat dissection and human anatomical models as well as the latest software technology. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 210 - Field Botany


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    Involves the collection, identification, and ecological relationships of plants as observed in nature. One lecture and one six-hour field trip/week. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 215 - Histology and Cytology


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    Study of the micro anatomy of animal cells, tissues, and select organs/organ systems. The correlation between structure and function is an overriding theme; genetic, molecular, and developmental aspects of cells and tissues also will be addressed. Students will learn to recognize and identify cells, tissues, and organs, and will refine their light microscopy skills in the lab. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 220 - An Introduction to Tropical Biology


    1 semester, 4 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Natural Science

    Familiarizes students with terrestrial and marine tropical biology. A nine-day trip to a tropical destination provides extensive field experience. The trip is a required component of the course. Students are charged room/board and airfare in addition to their tuition. Prerequisites: At least one semester of biology and permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 225 - Symbiosis


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Interactions and associations among organisms shape life on Earth. Course explores “symbiosis”, a particular type of interaction among organisms. Definitions of symbiosis vary, and these definitions will be addressed. Explores a range of symbiotic systems and examines how these systems illustrate important concepts in evolutionary and ecological theory. Topics may include: the origin of eukaryotic life through endosymbiosis, coral-algae symbiosis and climate change, the impact of symbiosis on agriculture, and how the human microbiome affects our health and development. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 227 - Genes and Gender


    1 semester, 3 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    Explores the role of genetics and biology of gender. A review of both classical and molecular genetics will provide a basis for consideration of the extent to which gender is determined by genes and their regulation. Additionally, the course will focus on the extent to which transcription and translation of genes produce sexual dimorphism and gender-specific human behavior. Same as WMS 227. Intended for Biology majors who have completed BIO 103-104. Open to non-biology majors who have sufficient background with permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 240 - Marine Biology


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    An investigation of marine communities and the important physical and chemical variables influencing marine organisms. Lecture topics will include: effects of the aquatic environment in terms of body form, life history, and ecology; the relationship between physical and biological structure; nutrient cycling; and oceanic productivity. Course combines field and laboratory study at the ecosystem and individual organism level. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 250 - Biogeochemistry: Nutrients, Cycles and Global Change


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Brings together concepts from biology, chemistry, geology, and physics to introduce the student to the field of Biogeochemistry. Examines terrestrial, ocean and freshwater environments; global water, nutrient, chemical, and energy cycles. Special focus placed on the carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur cycles, with emphasis on how biology interacts with these cycles. Prerequisites: BIO 103, BIO 104, CHM 101 and CHM 102.


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  • BIO 308 - Modern Genetics


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    Presents the basic principles of classical and molecular genetics with an emphasis on experimental design, data analysis, and problem solving. Recent advances in molecular and human genetics will be discussed with the use of research papers from the literature. Laboratory exercises will introduce students to the basic techniques and experimental protocols of molecular biology and genetics. Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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  • BIO 310 - Evolution


    1 semester, 3 credits-

    Designed as an introduction to Darwinian evolutionary theories. Topics include the rise of evolutionary biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, evidence for evolution, natural selection, molecular evolution, adaptation, macro evolutionary change, speciation, fossil record, biogeography, and classification. Intended for biology majors and minors. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 320 - Developmental Biology


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    Designed to familiarize students with the principles of development in biological systems. In lectures and laboratories, the process of the emergence of mature from less mature stages in the living organism is considered at various levels: molecular, cellular, tissue, and organismal. Emphasis on the description and experimental bases of developmental processes. Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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  • BIO 330 - Comparative Biomechanics


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    The bewildering diversity of living forms on earth has evolved in accordance with basic physical principles. This course examines the physical rules affecting potential designs of living organisms. Course topics include essential size-shape patterns and the mechanics of walking, running, flying, and swimming. Combines field and laboratory studies of animal structure and function. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 340 - Environmental Methods & Statistical Analysis


    1 semester, 4 credits (with lab)-

    A thorough introduction to methods and analyses used in environmental research, providing students with hands on experience with the primary software used in the field, including R and ArcGIS. Students will be able to formulate and identify research questions, design and critique experiments, manage and analyze data, test hypotheses, interpret results, and communicate their findings. Prerequisites: BIO 202 and MTH 218.


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  • BIO 350 - Animal Behavior


    1 semester, 4 credits- Core Foundation/Proficiency: Oral Communication

    Animal behavior investigates the mechanisms, ecology, and evolution of actions by animals as well as historical and current perspectives on the study of animal behavior. Emphasis is placed on discussing proximate and ultimate questions about behavior. The laboratory provides instruction on methods for conducting behavioral research, plus field trips. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 360 - Neurobiology


    1 semester, 4 credits-

    Focus on the biology of neurons-their structure, biology, signaling mechanisms, and how they are affected by psychoactive drugs and disease. An emphasis will be placed upon the cellular and molecular approaches to neurobiology. The laboratory will examine the regulation of neuronal activity and development through the use of computer simulations, animal models, and modern research methods. Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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