Freshwater Management Techniques
BIOL 884
3
Sample Syllabus Through taped lectures, reading and writing assignments, and online discussions, students will be introduced to both freshwater ecosystems and fishery management. Students will learn to analyze freshwater management problems using multiple techniques and suggest alternative approaches.
Sexual Selection
BIOL 886
1
Sample Syllabus Sexual selection often works counter to natural selection and explains some of the most bizarre biological aspects of almost all muti-cellular organisms. The course will consist of readings from two books and an online discussion.
Conservation of Birds/Mammals
BIOL 869
3
Sample Syllabus "Wildlife" is defined as wild birds and wild mammals. This course is about the Principles of Wildlife Conservation, and is not specifically about wildlife management, or even wildlife ecology. However, both of these latter subjects will be examined briefly. Wildlife conservation usually involves as much if not more of the following disciplines than it involves biology, history, sociology, and politics.
Natural Science Curriculum
BIOL 876
3
Sample Syllabus A discussion of life science curriculum, with emphasis on essential content, efforts to reform curricula at the state and national levels, and impediments to curriculum change. Offered on-line spring of odd-numbered years only.
Scientific Illustration
BIOL 811
3
Sample Syllabus An introduction to the discipline of scientific illustration. Students will learn the fundamental principles of creating effective illustrations for the purpose of communicating science. A limited set of media types, both traditional and digital will be explored. The main focus will be on creating the best images for use in research, teaching, journal publications, presentations, and other applications.
Microbial Diversity
BIOL 812
3
Sample Syllabus New techniques in molecular biology have revealed three distinct cell lineages: bacteria, archaea, and eukaryae. When considering microorganisms, this information has created major changes in our understanding of phylogeny and our use of taxonomy. This course will begin with current taxonomic groupings of microorganisms and their basic characteristics. The second half of the course will focus on how these groupings were created and on what weaknesses there are in our current understanding.
Issues in BioEthics
BIOL 813
3
Sample Syllabus An in-depth discussion of topics relating to ethics and biological sciences. Topics may include but are not limited to evolutionary biology, medicine, research, teaching, and politics. This class is discussion-based and a one hour online live (chat room) discussion is required each week. Students are graded upon discussion and scientific writing.
Plant Pathology
BIOL 814
3
Sample Syllabus This course is a survey of the principles and practice of plant pathology. The main and genetic elements involved in plant disease will be covered. Many of the major diseases, as well as their causes and effects will be surveyed.
Great Plains Heritage
BIOL 815
3
This course will provide an overview of the natural history, ecology, and culture of the Great Plains region from a scientific and historical perspective. Great Plains literature will also be incorporated into the course in order to enhance the knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the Great Plains region by each participant.
Infectious Diseases
BIOL 840P
3
Sample Syllabus This course is an introduction to medical microbiology with coverage of viral, bacterial, fungal, and protozoan disease causing microorganisms. It will cover the basic mechanisms of infection, disease progression, and immune response. It is strongly suggested that students have taken an introductory microbiology course before taking this class.
Molecular Biotechnology
BIOL 844
3
Sample Syllabus This course will consist of a short review of pertinent principles in protein structure and function, enzyme mechanisms and kinetics, and the basics of the genetic dogma and recombinant DNA technology. The bulk of the course will be made up of a topical consideration of subjects in biotechnology such as the production of protein pharmaceuticals, genetic engineering of animals and plants, and cloning or organisms. Special consideration will be given to the molecular mechanism behind the processes discussed.
Biological Application of Global Information...
BIOL 854
3
Biological Application of Global Information Systems (GIS)
Sample Syllabus Students will become proficient in the use of Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI)'s ArcGIS. There will be an emphasis on the handling, organization, and types of data storage pertaining to the use of this type of software. Students will also become familiar with basic, cartographic principles needed to use GIS software, online data sources, and GPS receivers.
Histology
BIOL 857
2
Sample Syllabus This course will review cell structure and function in human cells. Students will become familiar with the terminology and basic concepts associated with histology including microscopes, staining, magnification, and preparation techniques. Students will be able to recognize specific tissue-level structures and cell types in the human body.
Physiology of Stress
BIOL 858
3
Sample Syllabus An examination of how living organisms cope with short- and long-term exposure to extreme environmental conditions related to water and nutrient availability, temperature, and pressure. A basic understanding of organismal physiology is required.
Biology of the Brain
BIOL 859
3
Sample Syllabus This course will focus on the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and will include gross anatomical features and landmarks of the cerebral hemispheres, diencephalons, brainstem, cerebellum and spinal cord. Physiological aspects will include the generation and modification of action potentials as well as normal functions of the specific regions of the central nervous system. Selected abnormal functions will also be studied. The interdependency of the central nervous system to itself (various pathways between the spinal cord and within the brain) as well as to the peripheral nervous system and select organ systems will complete the focus of the course.
Human Genetics
BIOL 861P
3
Sample Syllabus The course focuses on contemporary human genetics with emphasis on genetic diseases. A study of the genetic basis and frequency of genetic defects in man and genetic counseling.
Animal Behavior
BIOL 862P
3
An introduction to the science of ethology. A survey of the mechanism, function, and development of behavior. Offered on-campus, Spring of odd-numbered years and online, Summer of odd-numbered years. View a sample syllabus.
Principles of Ecology
BIOL 824
3
Sample Syllabus This class is meant to review the basics of Ecology as well as take students to a more advanced understanding of this broad discipline. The class will review/refresh basic concepts in the field, and then read a number of classical papers. Students will be expected to discuss these papers, be tested on their content, and write summaries of them. Finally, more recent works in ecology will be introduced with an emphasis on integrative and macroecological studies.
Biological Statistics
BIOL 827
3
Sample Syllabus Biostatistics introduces statistical techniques useful for biological research. The class also emphasizes the importance of experimental design both in the lab and in the field for conducting successful research. This class assumes some familiarity with basic descriptive statistics and properties of probability. More specifically, the class includes parametric, non-parametric, univariate, and multivariate statistics as well as mark-recapture techniques, null models, and sampling design.
Ecological Anthropology
BIOL 829
2
Sample Syllabus This course will investigate the role of biogeography in the evolution of human societies. Students will delve into possible circumstances of what caused some human societies to achieve greater technical progress than others. They will trace the geophraphic spread of humans, human ideas, domesticated organisms, and disease and their multiple effects on human societies.
Environmental Biology
BIOL 823
3
Sample Syllabus The area of environmental studies is an important one today as the impact of humans on the biosphere is becoming more thoroughly understood. The amount and type of material being placed not the ecosystems of the planet by human activity is a topic of conservation and contention at all levels of government.
Insect Diversity
BIOL 830P
3
Sample Syllabus Insect Diversity provides an introduction to insects and related arthropods with an emphasis placed on morphology, taxonomy, life history, and ecology of major groups. Insects are more diverse, numerous, and important to the ecosystem than any other organism excluding perhaps humans. You will learn insect life histories, their role in the ecosystem, and their importance to humans.
Mycology
BIOL 830P
3
Sample Syllabus This course will provide a survey of organisms belonging to and related to the Kingdom Fungi. You will learn about the many groups of fungi and how to identify many of the members, as well as learn about the beneficial and detrimental effects of fungi related to people.
Outdoor Education
BIOL 830P
3
The Outdoor Education course is designed to share philosophies, strategies and tools associated with conducting education curriculum in outdoor settings. Instructors will incorporate professionals from the environmental education field. Additionally, participants will become Project WILD, Project WET, and Project Learning Tree certified.
Terrestrial Invertebrate Diversity
BIOL 830P
3
Behavior offers an organism the ability to alter its location or actions in such a way as to maximize its survival and is important in both basic and applied disciplines. Because terrestrial invertebrates are abundant, divers, and common, and sensitive to environmental change, they make ideal study subjects. Learning about terrestrial invertebrate behavior requires students to gain background knowledge through lectures and by examining behavior through videotaped examples and experiments. After taking this class, students will be able to understand invertebrate behaviors which will allow both classroom teaching enhancements and better use of pest-control tactics. The class will focus on insects with examples from other taxa. Students will learn about predator-prey relationships, foraging, defense mechanisms, communication, sexual and natural selection theories, understanding of the evolutionary relationships of the invertebrates and learn to recognize behavior as an evolutionarily adaptive trait.
Cancer Biology
BIOL 830P ST
3
Sample Syllabus This course is designed as a survey of the current state of knowledge in the cellular and molecular biology of cancer processes. The students will be expected to become proficient in the mechanisms of cell cycle control in normal cells, and how these are circumvented in cancerous cells. The students will also be expected to be able to analyze the cellular mechanisms of cancer development as they impact the physiology of the cells. We will also analyze the mechanisms to show the strategies currently used in molecular medicines and treatments for cancer. The students will also be expected to become familiar with current literature in cancer biology by analyzing and critiquing current articles.
Forensic Biology
BIOL 830P ST
3
Sample Syllabus This course will be a wide consideration of all aspects of Forensic Biology ranging from feneral considerations to the latest in molecular techniques. We will also review current literature, discuss case studies, and look at some mass market publications on crime scene investigation.
Hawaiian Biology
BIOL 830P ST
2
This 2 hour course is designed as an interdisciplinary course using the Hawaii archipelago as a case study for biology. This course will cut across the typical boundaries courses to focus on these amazing islands. The course will utilize geography, geology, evolution, meteorology, archeology, and history to examine the story of the most isolated islands in the world.
Human Evolution
BIOL 830P ST
3
This 2 hour course is designed to present the most complete picture of human evolution possible from origin of hominid species to the expansion of
Homo sapiens from Africa throughout the world. The course will outline genetic, physiological, and behavioral changes in our species through time, as well as geographic record of our expansion. Current genetic systems that show the history of human evolution will also be discussed.
Biological Statistics
BIOL 827
3
Sample Syllabus Biostatistics introduces statistical techniques useful for biological research. The class also emphasizes the importance of experimental design both in the lab and in the field for conducting successful research. This class assumes some familiarity with basic descriptive statistics and properties of probability. More specifically, the class includes parametric, non-parametric, univariate, and multivariate statistics as well as mark-recapture techniques, null models, and sampling design.
Ecological Anthropology
BIOL 829
2
Sample Syllabus This course will investigate the role of biogeography in the evolution of human societies. Students will delve into possible circumstances of what caused some human societies to achieve greater technical progress than others. They will trace the geophraphic spread of humans, human ideas, domesticated organisms, and disease and their multiple effects on human societies.
Evolution of Epidemics
BIOL 804
3
Through videotaped lectures, reading and writing assignments, and online discussions, students will develop an understanding of the origin and the evolution of plagues. We will illustrate the techniques humans have to defend against epidemics and will speculate about their role in shaping humanity and our futures. Offered online, Fall of odd-numbered years.
Functional Morphology
BIOL 866
3
A study of the structure, form, and function of morphological adaptations in plants and animals as examined through a mechanical, ecological, and evolutionary perspective. This course will investigate the form and function of organisms through lecture, laboratory-like assignments, discussion, and independent research projects. Offered online, Spring of odd-numbred years.
Concepts of Genetics
BIOL 860
3
Application based course covering the classical and molecular principles of inheritance. Concepts covered include various historical concepts surrounding transmission, molecular, and population genetics, current state of the discipline, and the future outlook for the field. Students are required to demonstrate their knowledge and critical thinking skills through quizzes, tests, and writing assignments. Offered online, Fall of odd-numbered years.
Herpetology
BIOL 835P
3
Herpetology provides an introduction to reptiles and amphibians with an emphasis placed on morphology, taxonomy, life history, and ecology of the major groups. Together, reptiles and amphibians are more diverse, numerous, and important to many terrestrial ecosystems than any other organism. You will learn life histories, their role in the ecosystem, reasons for the decline of many species and increase in other species and their importance to humans. Offered on-campus, Fall of odd-numbered years and online, Spring of odd-numbered years.
Conservation Biology
BIOL 834
3
An overview of conservation biology and its importance. Special emphasis is placed on ecological, economic, and social issues relevant to biological rarity.
Plant Ecology
BIOL 806P
3
A study of plants in relation to their environment. Three hours of laboratory or field work each week. Offered on-campus only.
Plant Physiology
BIOL 803P
3
Life processes of plants with an emphasis on water relations and hormonal and stress physiology. Three hours of laboratory each week. Offered online, Fall of even-numbered years and on-campus on demand.
Advances in Biology
BIOL 822
1-3
Recent advances in biological topics will be covered. A maximum of 6 hours credit may be counted toward a degree.
Essential Human Anatomy
BIOL 838
3
Human anatomy including essential aspects of functional morphology will be covered. Topics covered may include the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, digestive and reproductive systems. Detailed discussion of specific anatomical regions will be required.
Human Physiological Systems
BIOL 839
3
General human physiology will be studied with an emphasis on systems. The integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, digestive, immune and reproductive systems will be discussed. Salient mechanical, physical and biochemical processes of organs, tissues and cells will be covered. Anatomy will be included at a level necessary to make sense of the system's function. Offered online, Spring only.
Aquatic Trophic Ecology
BIOL 883
3
This course was developed to provide a thorough examination of the interactions between abiotic and biotic components of freshwater ecosystems incorporating both theoretical and applied aspects of aquatic food web management. Major themes of the course will include nutrient cycling, trophic state and eutrophication, predation and food webs, and fisheries ecology. Selected scientific literature and text readings will stress professional differences of opinion during discussion of topics, which is intended to guide students toward an understanding that ecological principles rarely are simple and that current dogma can at times be incorrect or incomplete. Finally, this course is directed at improving student communication (written and electronic information/technology based) and critical thinking skills. Offered online, Fall of odd-numbered years.