Biology

DR. SORAYA M. BARTOL DR. MARIELLE POSTAVA-DAVIGNON DR. DEIRDRE GONSALVES-JACKSON, Dean of VWU Global CAMPUS DR. ERIC JOHNSON, Department Chair DR. PHILIP ROCK DR. MAYNARD H. SCHAUS, Vice President for Academic Affairs DR. VICTOR R. TOWNSEND, JR., Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the Joan P. Brock School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

The Biology Department offers a diversified program that examines the life sciences by integrating multiple disciplines, including the molecular nature of cellular structure and physiology, the evolutionary mechanisms of biodiversity, and the study of plant and animal communities in relationship to the environment. The curriculum is designed to promote discovery and problem solving through scientific methodology, with most courses featuring an integrated laboratory component. In addition to mastering concepts, students learn to see the biological sciences as a process of discovery through the completion of a mandatory experiential learning opportunity such as undertaking undergraduate research, completing an internship, studying abroad in the natural sciences, or enrolling in a field course at a biological or marine field station. In addition to core biology courses, students are required to complete additional coursework in other natural sciences. Both B.A. and B.S. degrees are offered in biology. The curriculum for each degree is designed to prepare students for advanced study in the health sciences and biological research, thereby enabling motivated individuals to pursue successful careers as physicians, veterinarians, biologists, environmental researchers, policymakers, public health professionals, scientific journalists, and educators.

*See also Marine Science.

Major Requirements: Biology (B.A.) *

Ecological and Environmental Biology

Evolutionary and Integrative Biology

Cellular and Molecular Biology

Experiential Learning COURSE NUMBER AND TITLE

BIO 130: Principles of Biology I: Ecology & Evolution BIO 132: Principles of Biology II: Cell Biology & Genetics BIO 200: Principles of Biology III:The Diversity of Life BIO 288: Genetics

One of the following:

BIO 316: General Ecology BIO 340: Tropical Marine Biology BIO 355: Marine Ecology

One of the following:

BIO 372: Comparative Anatomy BIO 373: Marine Invertebrate Zoology BIO 377: Entomology and Arachnology BIO 380: Comparative Animal Physiology BIO 410: Evolution 4

One of the following:

BIO 308: Molecular Plant Physiology BIO 420: Cell and Molecular Biology BIO 424: Topics in Molecular Biology BIO 482: Microbiology 4

One of the following:

BIO 470: Internship in the Natural Sciences* BIO 489: Research of the Natural Sciences* Two BIO electives at the 300/400 level (excluding BIO 460 and 475) CHEM 120: Introductory Chemistry

One of the following:

CHEM 200: Inorganic Chemistry CHEM 210: Analytical Chemistry CHEM 221: Organic Chemistry

SEMESTER HOURS

4 4 4 4

4

4

8 4

4

*The MFAT exam is required as a part of the BIO 470 and 489 courses. Students not majoring in Biology who intend to go to medical or other professional school requiring 2 introductory labs MUST take BIO 132 and 200 to satisfy this requirement.

Major Requirements: Biology (B.S.) *

COURSE NUMBER AND TITLE

SEMESTER HOURS

BIO 130: Principles of Biology I: Ecology & Evolution BIO 132: Principles of Biology II: Cell Biology & Genetics BIO 200: Principles of Biology III: The Diversity of Life BIO 288: Genetics 4 4 4 4

Ecological and Environmental Biology

Evolutionary and Integrative Biology One of the following:

BIO 316: General Ecology

BIO 340: Tropical Marine Biology

BIO 355: Marine Ecology

One of the following:

BIO 372: Comparative Anatomy BIO 373: Marine Invertebrate Zoology BIO 377: Entomology and Arachnology BIO 380: Comparative Animal Physiology BIO 410: Evolution 4

4

Cellular and Molecular Biology

Experiential Learning One of the following:

BIO 308: Molecular Plant Physiology

BIO 420: Cell and Molecular Biology

BIO 424: Topics in Molecular Biology

BIO 482: Microbiology 4

One of the following:

BIO 470: Internship in the Natural Sciences*

BIO 489: Research of the Natural Sciences* Two BIO electives at the 300/400 level (excluding BIO 460 & 475) CHEM 120: Introductory Chemistry CHEM 200: Inorganic Chemistry CHEM 221: Organic Chemistry II CHEM 222: Organic Chemistry III

Two of the following:

CHEM 210: Analytical Chemistry CHEM 330: Biochemistry EES 270: Environmental Chemistry EES 300: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems EES 450: Biogeochemistry MATH 171: Calculus I MATH 172: Calculus II PHYS 221: University Physics I PHYS 222: University Physics II

TOTAL CREDIT HOURS:

4 8 4 4 4 4

8

64

*The MFAT exam is required as a part of the BIO 470 and 489 courses. Students not majoring in Biology who intend to go to medical or other professional school requiring 2 introductory labs MUST take BIO 132 and 200 to satisfy this requirement.

Minor Requirements: Biology

COURSE NUMBER AND TITLE

BIO 130: Principles of Biology I: Ecology & Evolution BIO 132: Principles of Biology II: Cell Biology & Genetics BIO Elective at 200 level or higher (excluding BIO 460 and 475) Two BIO electives at the 300/400 level (excluding BIO 460 and 475)

TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: SEMESTER HOURS

4 4 4 8 20

EES 200: Oceanography

BIO 355: Marine Ecology

Select three courses from the following:

BIO 340: Tropical Marine Ecology

BIO 354: Marine Invertebrate Evolution

BIO 373: Invertebrate Zoology

BIO/EES 489: Research in the Natural Sciences*

EES 300: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

EES 340: Climatology

EES 450: Biogeochemistry 4

4

12

TOTAL HOURS REQUIRED: 20

*Course requires approval from the department chair of either Biology or Earth and Environmental Sciences to ensure marine science related content.

Certificate in Biotechnology

Biotechnology is a broad interdisciplinary subject encompassing industries and fields involving some of the biggest challenges our society will face including medical & pharmaceutical technologies, agriculture, and the environment. It is founded on the knowledge at the intersection of chemistry and molecular biology, and is reliant on statistical modeling of “Big Data”. This certificate program is open to all students, but Biology, Chemistry, and Math majors with an interest in molecular biology are particularly encouraged to pursue it.

COURSE NUMBER AND TITLE

SEMESTER HOURS

BIO 132: Principles of Biology II: Cell Biology & Genetics BIO 288: Genetics CHEM 330: Biochemistry MATH 210: Introductory Statistics MATH 310: Statistical Models

Select one course from the following:

BIO 308: Molecular Plant Biology BIO 420: Cell and Molecular Biology CHEM 438: Advanced Biochemistry

Select one course from the following:

BIO 395: Fluorescence Microscopy BIO 424: Topics in Molecular Techniques BIO 470: Internship in the Natural Sciences CHEM 470: Internship in the Natural Sciences MATH 470: Internship in the Natural Sciences BIO 489: Research in the Natural Sciences CHEM 489: Research in the Natural Sciences MATH 489: Research in the Natural Sciences 4 4 4 4 4

4

2-4

TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: 26-28

Certificate in Advanced and Applied Microscopy

This certificate recognizes students who demonstrate proficiency with multiple forms of advanced modern microscopy and are able to apply their knowledge to investigate natural phenomena. Given the diversity of instrumentation on campus, students will have some flexibility with respect to the equipment that they choose to master, but most will acquire practical experience with scanning electron microscopy, light (or infrared) and fluorescence microscopy. In general, certificates in microscopy are not common, but most require substantive coursework and the demonstration of competency with specific instruments and essential background information, usually through practical and written examinations. To earn this certificate, students must complete an independent research project that requires the application of at least one form of advanced microscopy.

Complete 8 hours of the following coursework:

BIO 393: Scanning Electron Microscopy EES 394: Electron Microscopy and Microanalysis BIO 395: Fluorescence Microscopy CHEM 396: Infrared Microscopy BIO 397: Advanced Light Microscopy BIO 399: Histotechnique 8

Complete 4 hours of independent research:

BIO 489: Research in the Natural Sciences CHEM 489: Research in the Natural Sciences EES 489: Research in the Natural Sciences

Complete proficiency exams for instrumentation used in courses taken to complete the 8 hours of coursework (minimum of 4 exams). Complete a comprehensive written exam reflecting the specific coursework taken to complete the 8 hours of coursework. Participate in at least one Careers in Microscopy workshop. TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: 20

4

8

BIOLOGY COURSES (BIO)

100 The World of Biology (4)

An introduction to biology. Provides an overview of the study of life, including how biology affects our daily lives, including such topics as biodiversity, genetic engineering, and problems associated with the expanding human population. Designed for non-science majors. $50 lab fee. Offered every semester.

130 Principles of Biology I: Ecology and Evolution (4)

An introduction to the biological sciences. Topics include ecology, Darwinian evolution, population genetics, speciation, the origin of life, animal form and function, animal behavior, and biological conservation. Designed for students intending to pursue a major in biology, EES or ENVS. Offered every fall.

132 Principles of Biology II: Cell Biology and Genetics (4)

Completes the introduction to the biological sciences for biology and EES majors. Lecture topics include biochemistry, cell structure and processes, cell respiration, fermentation, photosynthesis, cell division, Mendelian genetics, gene expression, cancer biology, and animal physiology. $50 lab fee. Offered every spring.

133 Principles of Ecology and Evolution (4)

Introduction to the biological sciences with a focus on Darwinian evolution, population genetics, speciation, the origin of life, animal form and function, animal behavior, ecology and biological conservation. Designed for dual enrolled high school students only. Includes a laboratory component. $50 lab fee. Offered in fall semester on demand.

150 Introduction to Marine Biology (4)

An introduction to the organisms and communities of marine and estuarine areas. Students examine the basic physical and ecological processes that are pertinent to marine habitats and the diversity of marine organisms and ecosystems. Includes field and laboratory identification of local organisms and investigations of local field habitats. Designed for non-science majors. $50 lab fee. Offered every fall.

200 Principles of Biology III: The Diversity of Life (4)

Completes the introduction to the life sciences for Biology majors with a survey of all major lineages of organisms on the planet, including bacteria and archaea, fungi, plants, protists, and animals. $50 lab fee. Prerequisite: BIO 130 or BIO 132 and sophomore status or higher. Offered every fall.

201 Microbiology for the Health Sciences (4)

This course is intended for those students enrolled in the joint Nursing Program with the Sentara College of Health Sciences and is an introduction to the science of the biology of microorganisms as applied to health care settings. $50 lab fee. Prerequisite: CHEM 130. Offered every fall or on demand.

202 Human Nutrition (4)

This course is designed to introduce processes by which the human body obtains nutrients from food to maintain structural and functional integrity. We explore dietary sources, intake levels and the requirement of major nutrients, role of nutrition in growth and human health, and the role of diet in chronic diseases. Prerequisites: CHEM 130 and BIO 221 or BIO 222. Offered every summer or on demand.

221 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4)

An integrated lecture/laboratory experience that examines the anatomy and physiology of humans. Includes a survey of the nervous, muscular, skeletal, integumentary, and respiratory systems. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. $50 lab fee. Offered every fall.

222 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4)

An integrated lecture/laboratory experience that examines the anatomy and physiology of humans. Includes a survey of the cardiovascular, endocrine, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. $50 lab fee. Offered spring on demand.

288 Genetics (4)

Principles of heredity as applied to both plants and animals. Prerequisites: CHEM 120 and BIO 130 and 132. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered every spring.

308 Molecular Plant Physiology (4) W

A study of the molecular nature of how plants survive and respond to their environment. Topics include hormone regulations, carbon metabolism, plant cell identity, fluid transport and response to stress. Common techniques used in molecular biology will be introduced. Groups will design a short research project utilizing these techniques. Prerequisites: BIO 132 and sophomore status or higher, and ENG 105 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite: BIO288. Offered on demand.

316 General Ecology (4) W

A study of the interrelationships between organisms and their environment. Topics will range from the individual level to the global scale, including both basic and applied ecological topics. Prerequisites: BIO 130, successful completion of ENG 105 with a grade of C or higher, and sophomore status or higher. Identical to EES 316.

320 Ornithology (4)

A study of birds emphasizing diversity, behavioral ecology, and life history. Regular field observations are required and may occur under a variety of weather conditions. Prerequisite: BIO 130 and sophomore status or higher. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.

340 Tropical Marine Ecology (4)

An introduction to major tropical marine habitats and ecological processes that control tropical marine ecosystems with a focus on coral reefs, mangroves and tropical seagrass beds. Organisms characteristic of these habitats and their symbiotic relationships will be examined. Prerequisites: BIO 130/131 or BIO 200 or consent. Offered on demand.

355 Marine Ecology (4)

A study of organismal adaptation and community organization in marine and estuarine habitats. A variety of marine habitats are examined, with the laboratory focusing primarily on local species and habitat types. Prerequisite: two semesters of general biology or BIO 130 and sophomore status or higher or consent. Offered every fall.

371 Histology (4)

A detailed study of the cells, tissues, and organs that comprise the mammalian body. Intended for students seeking careers in biology, medicine, or veterinary sciences. Prerequisite: a grade of C or higher in BIO 132 and sophomore status or higher. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.

372 Comparative Anatomy (4)

A study of the evolution, morphology, and physiology of vertebrates. An intensive laboratory-directed examination of the major organ systems of vertebrates as exemplified by the lamprey, dogfish, salamander, and cat. Intended for students

373 Marine Invertebrate Zoology (4)

A survey of the marine invertebrate phyla, emphasizing the classification, evolution, ecology, morphology, and life histories of these organisms. Includes laboratory examinations of representative groups and field sampling of local invertebrate fauna. Prerequisite: BIO 200 or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.

375 Topics in Tropical Biology (4)

An intensive field experience in neotropical ecosystems (rainforests, coral reefs, mangroves, caves, etc.). Descriptive studies of local flora and fauna will be combined with an in-depth investigation of a topic of interest. Field activities will include moderately strenuous exercise under a variety of weather conditions. Destinations may include Belize, Costa Rica, or other tropical sites. Course fee required. Identical to EES 375. Prerequisite: BIO 130 and sophomore status or higher, and consent. Offered in select January Terms. Runs concurrently with BIO 435.

377 Entomology and Arachnology (4)

A comprehensive survey of the insects and arachnids of medical, economic, and ecological significance. Includes laboratory examinations of living and preserved specimens and field collections of select taxa. Prerequisite: BIO 200 or consent. Offered on demand.

380 Comparative Animal Physiology (4)

A study of the basic mechanisms by which animals function. Emphasizes how both invertebrate and vertebrate organisms change these basic mechanisms to adapt to environmental conditions. Prerequisites: a grade of C or higher in BIO 200 or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.

385 Animal Behavior (4)

A study of the mechanisms and evolution of animal behavior. Topics include genetics and development of behavior, neural and physiological mechanisms of behavior, communication, social behavior, habitat selection, reproductive behavior, and parental investment. Laboratory exercises provide hands-on experiences for many of these concepts. Prerequisites: BIO 130 and sophomore status and higher or consent. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours each week. Offered on demand.

393 Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) (2)

Introduces the essentials and broad research applications of SEM. Topics include the preparation of biological and nonbiological specimens, the use of secondary and backscattered electrons for imaging, and the operation of SEM in high vacuum and variable pressure modes. Hands-on training and independent operation of the SEM are mandatory. Identical to EES 393. Prerequisites: Sophomore status and consent. Offered in selected terms

395 Fluorescence Microscopy (2)

Examines the applications of epifluorescence and confocal laser microscopy to the imaging of living cells and tissues. Topics include sample preparation and a review of the principles of fluorescence imaging. Practical training and independent operation of the instrumentation are strongly emphasized. Prerequisites: Sophomore status and consent. Offered in selected terms.

397 Advanced Light Microscopy (2)

Reviews the fundamentals of light microscopy, with an emphasis upon the compound light microscope, stereomicroscope and polarizing light microscope. Topics include dark-field, phase-contrast, differential interference contrast (DIC), simple fluorescence and basic staining techniques. Use of digital image capture and manipulation software is required. Prerequisites: Sophomore status and consent. Offered in selected terms.

399 Histotechnique (2)

Introduces techniques used to prepare tissues for light microscopy. Topics include a review of laboratory safety procedures, specimen fixation, tissue processing and embedding, sectioning with a microtome, and staining. Hands-on training with a microtome is emphasized. Prerequisites: Sophomore status and consent. Offered in selected terms.

400 Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) (4)

Introduces the broad research applications of SEM. Topics include sample preparation, critical point drying, sputter coating, imaging, and x-ray microanalysis. Includes weekly hands-on training with the SEM and completion of an independent research project. Identical to EES 400. Prerequisites: junior/senior status and consent. Offered in select terms.

410 Evolution (4)

A study of the theory of biological evolution through natural selection. Topics include micro evolution, speciation, macroevolution, ecology and modern methods of determining phylogenetic relationships. Prerequisites: BIO 130 and 132 and junior/senior status or consent. Offered on demand.

412 Chemical Ecology (4) W

A study of how organisms use chemicals to mediate interactions within and between species. Students will gain experience interpreting primary research articles as varying topics are discussed, such as plant-herbivore interactions, coral chemical defenses, and insect semiochemicals. Prerequisites: BIO 130, BIO 132, any 200-level CHEM course, ENG 105 with a grade of C or higher or consent. Lecture three hours each week. Offered every fall.

420 Cell and Molecular Biology (4)

A study of the structure and function of prokaryotes and eukaryotes at the cellular and molecular level. Emphasizes the molecular nature of cellular structure, metabolism, and physiology. Prerequisite: BIO 288 (grade of C or higher). Offered on demand.

424 Topics in Molecular Techniques (2 or 4)

A focused study on molecular techniques necessary for research and biotechnology applications. Students’ conceptual understanding, troubleshooting and lab-skills will develop on given topics. Topics vary with offerings and may include: gene cloning, gene expression analysis or characterization of protein expression and activity. May be repeated as topics vary. Prerequisite: BIO 288 or consent. Offered in selected semesters.

435 Tropical Ecology (4) I

An intensive field experience in neotropical ecosystems (coral reefs, rainforests, caves, mangrove swamps, etc.), that links ecological phenomena with social and historical factors to examine the conservation of biodiversity. Field activities require moderately strenuous exercise and considerable hiking. Destinations may include Trinidad, Belize, Costa Rica, or other tropical sites. Prerequisites: Students must have completed a lab science course (L) and have junior or senior status. Course fee is additional. Student may take this course one additional time for credit. Runs concurrently with BIO 375.

460 Zymurgy: The Science of Fermentation (4) I

Introduces the science and art of fermentation and considers the use of alcohol by human societies. Prerequisite: senior status or consent. Offered in selected January Terms and spring semesters.

470 Internship in the Natural Sciences (2 or 4)

An intensive study of a specific field of science through an on-site field experience with hands-on learning opportunities that are relevant to the chosen site. Students may enroll for 2 or 4 hours in a given semester. A minimum of 80 hours devoted to the internship is expected for 2 semester hours, and a minimum of 160 hours is expected for 4 semester hours, but some placements may require more time. Students must coordinate their internship placement with the supervising faculty member at least two months prior to placement. Pass/fail grading. Prerequisites: junior/senior status and consent. Offered every semester.

475 Natural and Social History of the Chesapeake Bay (4) I

Provides a comprehensive view of one of the largest and most diverse estuaries in the world. Students examine the relationships between the natural history and the human history, including social and political aspects, use of the bay by various societies and their impact on and preservation of the bay. Saturday field trips required. Prerequisite: junior/senior status. Offered on demand.

482 Microbiology (4)

Teaches basic microbiological concepts and the role of microorganisms in various applied areas. Topics include microbial physiology, cell structure, microbial genetics, pathogenic microorganisms and disease, and environmental and applied microbiology. Students practice aseptic technique, isolation and identification of bacteria, staining, and determination of microbial numbers. Prerequisite: BIO 288 (grade of C or higher). Offered every fall.

489 Research in the Natural Sciences (2 or 4)

Offers students the opportunity to conduct original scientific research in an area of interest. Students work closely with one or more members of the natural science faculty to develop and conduct a research project, then present their findings orally during the semester’s undergraduate research symposium and as a formal research paper. Students are encouraged to present their findings at a conference. Prerequisite: junior/senior status and a major in the natural sciences, prior approval by

the project advisor, and consent of the instructor. Students may enroll for 2 or 4 hours in a given semester. May be repeated for a maximum total of 8 semester hours. Identical to CHEM 489, CS 489, and EES 489. Offered every semester and most January Terms (2 semester hours only).