Course details

Biological science courses

BIOL 100 The Biological World 3
A non-majors course examining the biology of the human story. Emphasizes the connections between biology and other disciplines through a thematic study of savanna systems. Unifying ideas in biology are discussed through examining topics including wildlife ecology, evolution and adaptation, human evolution and theology, and environmental sustainability.

BIOL 110 Ecology and Evolution 4
This introductory course examines the fundamental principles related to the evolution of life on earth and the ecological relationships between living things. A major focus will be the design and implementation of independent research projects in order to practice the scientific process. The course also explores the application of ecological and evolutionary principles to enduring questions in other disciplines: What does it mean to be human, created in God?s image, and charged with restoring ecological systems? Required for all Biology majors. A Natural World Perspectives course in the Goshen Core. Prerequisite: Engl 105 or equivalent. Corequisite: Quantitative literacy.

BIOL 111 Biological Principles I 4
This course emphasizes the basic principles underlying all fields of biology, including diversity, water biology, energy flow, inheritance, life cycles and communication. Surveys plant and animal taxa, with special emphasis on vascular plants and vertebrate animals. This course is for science majors and others interested in a rigorous introduction to biology. Either Biol 111 or Biol 112 may be taken first.

BIOL 112 Biological Principles II 4
This course emphasises the basic principles underlying all fields of biology, including diversity, water biology, energy flow, inheritance, life cycles and communication. Surveys plant and animal taxa, with special emphasis on vascular plants and vertebrate animals. This course is for science majors and others interested in a rigorous introduction to biology. Either Biol 111 or Biol 112 may be taken first.

BIOL 120 Cell Biology and Genetics 4
This introductory course explores the cell as a complex and dynamic system shaped by its environment and genetic legacy. Genes as units of natural selection, the relationship between gene regulation and cell physiology, common functional pathways of the cell, and the ethics of manipulating the cell for human applications will be emphasized. Both classical and modern genetic technologies will be experienced in the laboratory. Prerequisite: Biol 110.

BIOL 130 Organismal Biology 4
This introductory course to the major integrates the elements that govern biology at the level of the organism: metabolism, anatomy, physiology, and behavior. This course will survey the physiological and organ systems that regulate life, particularly in vascular plants and vertebrate animals. Included is a special emphasis on human anatomy and physiology. This course, along with Biol110 (Ecology and Evolution) and Biol120 (Cell Biology and Genetics), are for science majors and others interested in a rigorous introduction to biology. Prerequisite: Biol 110.

BIOL 154 Human Biology 3 (3-4)
A biological study of how the body functions, of the diseases/disorders that can disrupt the normal functioning of the body and of strategies for the prevention of disease. Includes an exploration of human genetics and its role in disease. Current issues related to human health are discussed. Laboratory exercises will introduce students to scientific principles affecting the body. A four-credit option, with extra material on the muscular and skeletal systems, is offered for physical education majors.

BIOL 200 General Zoology 4
A survey of representative animal groups from Protozoa through the Chordata. Includes anatomy, morphology, systematics, life histories and ecology. Three lectures, one three-hour lab. Prerequisite: Biol 111, 112 or permission of instructor.

BIOL 201 Botany of Seed Plants 4
A major study of the stems, roots, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds of the advanced vascular plants. Emphasis is placed on plant anatomy, morphology and physiology. Two lectures and two two-hour labs. Prerequisite: Biol 111, 112 or permission of instructor.

BIOL 203 Human Anatomy & Physiology 4
A study of the organ systems of the human body, their gross and microscopic structure and their functions. Laboratory demonstrations and dissections. Three lectures, one three-hour lab. Prerequisite: one semester of college chemistry.

BIOL 204 Human Anatatomy & Physiology 3
A study of the organ systems of the human body, their gross and microscopic structure and their functions. Laboratory demonstrations and dissections. Three lectures, one three-hour lab. With permission of the instructor, biology majors may take Biol 204 for two hours of lecture only. Prerequisite: Biol 203 and one semester of college chemistry.

BIOL 205 Pollinators in Peril 3
What is causing a rapid decline in global pollinator populations? The answer is of immediate concern because many human crops are pollinated by bee, butterfly, bird, or bat species. Recent bee declines will be used as a model to understand the multiple forces impacting all pollinators. Labs will involve hands-on work with bee hives, in addition to field experiments. A Natural World Perspectives course in the Goshen Core. Prerequisite: Engl 105 or equivalent. Corequisite: Quantitative literacy.

BIOL 206 Microbiology 3
A general study of microorganisms and their relations to health and disease, with practical applications valuable to the nurse. Includes the characteristics and activities of microorganisms, procedures for sterilization and disinfection; methods of growing and studying organisms; and techniques of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases. Three lectures, one two-hour lab. Prerequisite: one semester of college chemistry. Not for the biology major.

BIOL 207 Roots of Environmental Crisis 3
What are the roots of our current environmental crisis? Can religious, economic, cultural, political, and/or biological worldviews help us understand the challenges? The course will analyze our local use of natural resources (both on campus and in Goshen city). From where does our water come? Our energy? Where does our garbage go? Our exhaust? Students will use their analysis of these questions to propose restorative solutions. Required course for Environmental Science majors and a Natural World Perspectives course in the Goshen Core. Prerequisite: Engl 105 or equivalent. Corequisite: Quantitative literacy.

BIOL 209 Field Experience 3 (1-3)
Practical experience in biology, typically in a relevant off-campus experience. Off-campus positions may include various types of work (employed or volunteer) in university, hospital or other medical, veterinary, agricultural and industrial facilities or nature centers and camps. Students are encouraged to develop their own ideas. Taken only as credit/no credit. Prerequisite: consent of adviser.

BIOL 210 Biology of the Sea 4
An introductory course that immerses students in exploring the ecology of the Florida Keys ecosystem. Suitable for non-majors. Biology majors should sign up for Biol 304. An off-campus course taught at the J.N. Roth Marine Biology station in Florida. Prerequisite: application process and consent of instructor. Moderate extra cost.

BIOL 215 Principles of Environmental Science 3
Introduction to natural resources (forests, wetlands, water, air, climate, soils, etc.), human use and impact on resource supply, pollution and sustainability. A critique of the land use history and ethics in the United States will then frame the discussion of the human ecology and the development of a vision of sustainability. Prerequisite: Biol 111, 112 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 220 Properties & Management of Soils 3
A comprehensive introduction to the field of soil science with emphasis on scientific principles and their application to solve practical soil management problems. Topics will include soil formation, soil physical properties, soil organisms and ecology, and practical nutrient management. This course constitutes one of the four courses taught during the summer agroecology program. Permission of the Agroecology Program Director is required.

BIOL 230 Small Farm Mgmnt/Produce Marketing 3
This course teaches skills necessary for making a farm or market garden an economic success, including finding land, planning appropriate marketing strategies for selected crops, and managing income and expenses. Community supported agriculture (CSA) and other direct marketing options will be studied and local farmers and entrepreneurs will share from their experience. This course constitutes one of the four courses taught during the summer agroecology program. Permission of the Agroecology Program Director is required.

BIOL 300 Microbial Biology 4
Study of the anatomy, physiology and ecology of microorganisms, particularly bacteria, protists, and viruses. Lab instruction will include techniques involved in isolating, culturing and quantifying microbial organisms found in soil, water, food, and the human body. Three lectures, one three-hour lab. Prerequisites: Biol 111, 112.

BIOL 301 Genetics 4
Introduction to genetics including classical, molecular, behavioral, and population concepts. Genomic, proteomic, and epigenetic concepts will also be covered. Includes discussions of the moral and ethical implications related to genetic principles and techniques. The laboratory will include individual experiments with living model organisms and modern genetic biotechnology. Three lectures and one laboratory/discussion session per week. Prerequisites: Biol 111, 112.

BIOL 302 Developmental Vertebrate Biology 4
Principles of vertebrate development with study of developing systems in chicken and human embryos. Material covered includes the molecular genetics of developmental processes and cancer.Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite: Biol 111, 112.

BIOL 303 Vertebrate Physiology 4
A concentrated study of the principles of vertebrate physiology. Material covered includes various topics of significance in the biomedical field, such as cellular, nervous, muscular and cardiovascular physiology. Laboratory activites will cover the same topics, with a special focus on computer based data acquisition. Three lectures and one laboratory session per week. Prerequisities: Biol 111, 112 or Biol 203, 204.

BIOL 304 Marine Biology 4
An intensive field-based class that explores the marine ecology of the Florida Keys. Includes a comprehensive collaborative field research project. An off-campus course taught at the J. N. Roth Marine Biology station in Florida. Prerequisites: Biol 111, 112, application process and consent of instructors. Moderate extra cost.

BIOL 307 Molecular Cell Biology 4
Examination of the structure and function of cells with emphasis on the molecular organization of eukaryotic cells. Topics include intracellular transport, cell:cell interactions, cell division, cytoskeleton organization, tissue/cell culture and staining, western blots, and proteomics. One lecture, two three-hour labs. Prerequisites: Biol 301 and Chem 111, 112 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 308 General Entomology 4
A general study of insect structure, development, classification and habits. Laboratory sessions particularly directed at identification of insects and their economic roles. Three lectures and one three-hour lab per week. Prerequisite: Biol 111, 112. Biol 200 strongly recommended.

BIOL 309 General Ecology 4
A study of the distribution and abundance of organisms. The course will include studies of the dynamics of natural biological communities and the interaction of these communities with the abiotic environment. An exploration of the major ecological theories needed to understand natural systems with emphasis on engaging students in ecological research. Most field work occurs at the Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center. Prerequisites: Biol 111, 112.

BIOL 311 Advanced Molecular Genetics 4
This course will introduce students to modern biotechnology and techniques used to analyze genes and genomes. The main focus will be the molecular machinery that influences gene expression and cell physiology. Genetic tools will be used to diagnose human disease and to determine levels of gene flow in animal/plant populations. Topics of interest include linkage analysis, cancer genetics, microarrays, genomic imprinting, SNP and disequilibrium mapping, and genome sequencing. Labs introduce students to DNA cloning, RNA isolation, and Western/Southern blotting. Prerequisites: Biol 130 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 312 Land Management 4
Basic principles of the management of natural ecosystems for various values or functions. Includes principles of restoration of disappeared or damaged ecosystems. Focus on wetlands, prairies and natural grasslands and forests, primarily as a field course. Environmental Science majors are given first priority for enrollment. Field work at Merry Lea. Prerequisite: Biol 111, 112.

BIOL 313 Landscape Limnology 4
This course examines the physical, chemical and biological variables of freshwater lakes, streams and wetlands, which influence living organisms in these aquatic ecosystems. Emphasis on how their interactions contribute to the environmental, economic and social health of watersheds that make up every landscape.

BIOL 316 Vegetable Crops 3
This course provides an understanding of the role of the environment in plant growth and development and focuses on the basic principles of sustainable vegetable production. Topics will include environmental factors influencing plant growth and crop production, preparing and planting the field, extending the growing season, and handling crops after harvest. Students will practice production techniques on college-operated acerage. This course constitutes one of the four courses taught during the summer agroecology program. Permission of the Agroecology Program Director is required.

BIOL 318 Agroecology 3
Study of sustainable food production, investigating the ecological impacts of manipulating natural systems to produce food, feed, fiber and medical products. Ecological concepts are discussed and their principles applied to sustainable food production that supports community culture and economy. Topics will include the theoretical basis of agroecology, alternateive production systems, and ecological managment of diseases, insect pests and weeds. This course constitutes one of the four courses taught during the summer agroecology program. Permission of the Agroecology Program Director is required.

BIOL 320 Human Pathophysiology I 3
An introductory study of the biology of diseases. Examines causes of disease and bodily response processes. A survey of both disorders that affect the body as a whole and disease of individual organs. Intended for students in allied health professions. Prerequisite: Biol 203, 204 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 321 Human Pathophysiology II 3
An introductory study of the principles of disease. Examines causes of disease and bodily response processes. A survey of both disorders that affect the body as a whole and disease of individual organs. Intended for students in allied health professions. Prerequisite: Biol 203, 204 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 324 Advanced Field Biology 4
This course will build on the ecological theories explored in Biol 110 (Ecology & Evolution) and apply ecological paradigms toward restoration of degraded and damaged systems. Field components at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center will allow students to gain experience in a variety of restoration techniques as relevant to restoring prairies, wetlands, and forest habitat. A major emphasis in the course will be to apply theoretical understandings of ecology to applied restoration projects and will therefore be team-taught by instructors with expertise in theoretical ecology and land management. Prerequisite: Biol 110 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 330 Biology Research Seminar 1
An exploration of opportunities in research at the undergraduate level, graduate level and for a career. Includes an introduction of ongoing departmental research programs, discussion and demonstrations by current student participants of their projects, examination of new discoveries reported in the current literature and discussions of opportunities for student participation in our research program for advanced biology credit.

BIOL 331 Junior Research Seminar 2
A weekly 2 hour meeting for all biology students with emphasis on scientific inquiry skills including reading the primary literature, choosing research questions, designing experiments, analyzing data, and writing scientific papers. The final product for this course will be the selection and approval of a senior research project to be completed by the end of the senior year. Students will work with faculty to develop and implement either a research project, which is primarily data driven or an interdisciplinary capstone projects (e.g. restoration based projects that involve implementing sustainability initiatives on campus, library research on issues of biological ethics, etc.).

BIOL 335 Natural Resources Policy Seminar 1
To be taken in conjunction with Introduction to Public Policy, PoSc 210. Focus on U.S. natural resources policy (clean air, clean water, forest service policy, etc.) and the structure of the governmental agencies responsible for natural resources (Forest Service, Army Corps of Engineers, EPA, IDNR, IDEM, etc.).

BIOL 340 Field Experience Environmental Educ 2 (1-3)
Participants will develop and conduct interpretive programs in nature study for visiting school groups; observe practices related to managing a natural area and participate in discussions of environmental issues. Instruction takes place at the Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center. Enrollment by permission of instructor only. Prerequisite: one semester of college-level biology.

BIOL 341 Advanced Cell Biology 4
This course will explore eukaryotic cell physiology at the molecular level. Intracellular transport, cell communication, the cell cycle, cytoskeleton function, and tissue formation will be addressed. Fluorescent and electron microscopy, and cell culture techniques will be experienced in the laboratory. Prerequisite: Biol 120 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 345 Forest Resources 4
Study of the function, value and use of forest resources, including management of forests for harvest, water quality, biodiversity, aesthetics and recreation. Significant time spent in the field at forestland sites. Prerequisite: Biol 111, 112.

BIOL 350 Ornithology 4
Natural history, taxonomy, and conservation of birds. Includes much work on visual and aural identification of birds in the field. Taught during the May term at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center. Prerequisite: Biol 111, 112.

BIOL 375 Topics in Biology: 4 (1-4)
Classroom and/or laboratory study in a major area of biology not covered by regular courses. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.

BIOL 400 Biology Research 1 (1-4)
On-campus participation in a research project. Prerequisite: consent of faculty supervisor.

BIOL 409 Biology Internship 3 (1-3)
Practical experience in biology including professional levels of responsibility. Activities may be similar to those described for Biol 209, but with a higher degree of independent responsibility in the experience, as would be appropriate for a traditional apprenticeship. Students are encouraged to develop their own ideas. Taken only as credit/no credit. Prerequisite: consent of adviser.

BIOL 410 Biology Senior Seminar 3
A weekly 1-hour meeting for all Department of Biological Sciences majors to complete a senior capstone project. Led by all department faculty, the seminar will emphasize data analysis, research writing, and the communication of project results to the wider community. Students will explore the interdisciplinary nature of biological sciences through readings, discussions, and the completion of their final senior project. Prerequisite: Biol 331.