Program Codes:
BSENVSBIO
Bachelor of Science
Introduction
Environmental science operates at the intersection between humans and the natural world. It is a complex field that requires students to understand how physical, chemical and biological phenomena on varying scales interact with human systems and the structures and challenges imposed by governmental policies, economics, and social problems. The success of an environmental professional at addressing environmental problems requires an interdisciplinary perspective and knowledge about how to sensitively select and use the right tools to assess and address problems.
Mercyhurst’s Environmental Science program has been designed as a natural science-focused program offering students opportunities to specialize in either biology or geology field studies, and including a slate of liberal arts courses that prepares students for a broad range of possible careers in environmental consulting, sustainability leadership, conservation and restoration science, green energy and environmental education. Coursework includes deep upperlevel disciplinary and interdisciplinary coursework to provide students with diverse hands-on technical skills and practical experience within the respective environmental science geology and biology curricula.
The program is complementary to the university’s existing majors in Biology and Geology, which provided a foundation for the development of Environmental Science. Special facilities available to students in this program include two major natural areas owned by the University within the Pennsylvania Lake Erie watershed: the Jean B. and J. Douglas James Ecological & Wildlife Preserve and the Mary Jo and Ed Maier Field Station.
Mercyhurst is a full member and active participant in the Regional Science Consortium, a collaborative, non-profit organization which focuses on and coordinates educational and research projects for Lake Erie and the upper Ohio River Basin, offering college courses and research opportunities to students from more than a dozen regional colleges and universities at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. Consortium facilities available to Mercyhurst biology students include well-equipped research and teaching laboratories, classrooms, greenhouse, natural history collections, sampling equipment and research vessels.
Mission Statement
The primary mission of the Mercyhurst University Environmental Science Program is to educate students in physical, biological and social sciences, making them reflectively aware of the natural environment in which they live, equipped to serve as globally responsible stewards of the Earth and its resources, and prepared to advance successful solutions to address environmental issues. Central keys to advance this mission are a commitment to immersing students in a broad exposure to the diverse perspectives that are necessary to address complex environmental problems, combined with deep experiential disciplinary learning through rigorous field-centered class and laboratory activities, practical hands-on field experiences, collaborative faculty-student research, and travel-learning experiences that will take students beyond the boundaries of our local environments.
Advising
To ensure that students in the program are successful in the long term, the advising program will institute a Sophomore Review process, directed by each student’s primary advisor in geology or biology. During the review process, the student, with guidance from the advisor, will be required to develop a detailed curricular plan for the third and fourth year of the student’s program, and will be assigned a second advisor from the other department (biology or geology), whom the student will consult with for final approval of their environmental science degree plan. This process provides environmental science students the benefit of two different science disciplinary perspectives for developing skillbuilding and capstone project course decisions, which will have a profound effect on the subsequent success of the student in advancing to a professional position or graduate school.
Environmental Science Minor Requirements
BIO 146/147 Ecology and Evolutionary Biology of Organisms & Lab 4 credits
ENVS 105 Introduction to Environmental Studies 3 credits
GEOL 100/102 Physical Geology & Lab 4 credits
Three additional environmental theme courses that are 200 level or higher approved by the minor advisor. (9-12 credits)
Two of the additional 200 level courses must be science courses (e.g., BIO, GEO, PUBH, or SCI)
Sustainability Studies Minor Requirements
ENVS 105 Introduction to Environmental Studies 3 credits
SUST 210 Responding to Climate Change 3 credits
OR
SCI 335 Climatology 3 credits
Four additional environmental themed courses, two of which must be level 200 or higher (12-16 credits).
The Environmental Science Program has identified six learning outcomes that all students should meet before they earn their degree. Upon completion of the Environmental Science curriculum all students should be able to:
The Environmental Science program offers courses leading to a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology Field Studies or Geology Field Studies. The program offers an Environmental Science minor and a Sustainability Studies minor. Students who expect to attend graduate school after graduation are strongly encouraged to pursue the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Environmental Science majors must maintain a 2.50 GPA in the major program as well as an overall GPA of 2.50. To be recommended for graduation, a student must earn at least a 2.5 grade point average in the required major courses and labs. A student also must earn a grade of a C or better in any course from the major discipline that is to fulfill a degree requirement. No required course may be taken on a Pass/Fail basis. No required courses may be taken at another institution without prior approval.
BIO 147
A laboratory course that elucidates concepts taught in BIO 146 from a largely experimental perspective.
BIO 146
An introduction to the major divisions of nonvascular and vascular plants. Includes basic studies of plant taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, growth, evolution and ecology.
BIO 146
BIO 211
Field and laboratory experiences in plant morphology, identification, ecology, and experiments in plant physiology.
BIO 210
This course explores the socioeconomic and cultural implications of human interactions with the physical environment. Principal topics will include: Issues associated with fossil fuel extraction and use as well as the development of renewable energy sources. Using these topics, we will examine the idea of environmental racism and injustice towards various cultures and nations. We will also explore future energy needs that result from an energy independent United States and the consequent effects on the green energy field and global relationships with oil and gas producing nations.
Dendrochronology deals with time as recorded by tree rings. Information extracted from tree rings can subsequently be used to make predictions about past climate and paleo-environmental conditions, geologic and anthropological events, and even fire cycles. This class will present the fundamental principles of how to conduct dendrochronologic studies and will emphasize the techniques of collecting and interpreting tree ring data. Applications of dendrochronology will also be explored.
A survey of the significant chemical and physical concepts related to energy usage. An initial introduction to energy mechanics and the laws of thermodynamics, applied to "real-world" situations, will be given. Present modes of energy generation and usage will be discussd and related to environmental considerations. Significant time will be spent with an assessment of energy sources. These include: fossil fuels, solar, nuclear, geothermal and biomass sources. This course includes a lab component.
In consultation with advisors, choose two of the following:
Course will focus on the proper collection and documentation of physical evidence according to the current laws and court proceedings. Discussion will also include new court rulings regarding evidence and expert witness activities.
FRSC-150
Short Title : ECONOMICS OF POVERTY
Active Term : Spring Term / Odd Years
Course Code : ECON 250
Course Description :
This course introduces students to economic theories of poverty, ways to measure it (and the problems associated with these measures), and a description of the success and failures of public policies designed to curtail it. It features a blending of economic reasoning from theoretical and empirical perspectives, which will become part of the students' toolkits in their further endeavors, and a critical comparison of the economics approach and Catholic social teaching. The students will come out of the course becoming critical and intelligent participants in public policy debates and learn to form their own policy recommendations based on their analysis.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS
Active Term : All Terms / All Years
Course Code : ECON 260
Course Description :
The primary goal of this course is to enhance the student's understanding and ability to critically assess contemporary environmental policy. It aims at equipping students with the economic methods and tools used to analyze environmental issues, combining theoretical analysis with discussions on specific environmental policies as applied to water and air pollution, energy issues, climate change, and human health issues. Analytical techniques for estimating the effects of proposed programs are examined. Strengths and weaknesses of benefit-cost analysis in the regulatory process are explored in the context of political economy. Current environmental policy is evaluated.
Short Title : SPECIAL TOPICS IN LIT
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : ENG 328
Course Description :
The special topics seminars invite students to engage in an intensive study of a particular theme, historical moment, author or interdisciplinary topic. Drawn from American, British or European traditions, courses might include Writing and the Environment or Existentialism and Literature. Students may take multiple seminar topics under this course number.
Short Title : US ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : HIS 221
Course Description : With a wide-angled multidisciplinary lens, students in this course explore the central importance of nature and the environment in American history. From Thoreau to pink flamingoes, we trace shifting conceptions of "nature" in American cultural history. In addition, we survey the history of environmental change, focusing on the historical impact of human activity upon local and regional environments from New England to California. Finally, students examine the often contested political and legislative response of Americans to environmental problems since the late 19th century.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : POLI 321
Course Description : Taught utilizing a law school style approach-including a moot court experience-the purpose of this course is to provide an in-depth look at current U.S. environmental law, as well as the underlying technology implicit in a successful environmental law framework. This course will provide an excellent opportunity to improve your oral communication skills. 3 credits.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : POLI 395
Course Description :
This class is premised on the belief that environmental problems are ultimately political conflicts. Accordingly, we focus not only on the substance of environmental issues, but also on the public policy process, and on the skills, tactics and factors that influence the outcomes of the policy process.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : PUBH 201
Course Description :
Environmental Health is an introduction to the role of environmental exposures in human health and disease. Though the focus is on humans, because the human ecological footprint is expanding and has few natural boundaries, the impacts of human activities on the broader environment and non-human systems are equally important to our understanding of the role of environment on health. It is an applied science course that will focus on finding solutions to the many challenges posed by environmental health hazards including chemical, biological and radiation exposures at work, at home and at play-and the choices we must make to minimize personal exposures while participating in an expanding global economy. A major emphasis is on understanding the role of public health in environmental health science while linking these disciplines to broader goals of preserving environmental quality and protecting human health.
Short Title : GLOBAL HEALTH
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : PUBH 211
Course Description :
A person born in Japan can expect to live to 83 while a person born in Eswatini is unlikely to see their 32nd birthday. There are dramatic differences in the health and well being of populations around the world. What explains these disparities and what can be done about them? These questions and more are fundamental to the core of global health. This course will use case studies, interactive exercises and simulations to teach students the core principles of global health while encouraging them to think globally and act locally. Students will learn about cutting-edge methodologies in global health including the use of mobile phones to monitor health, the use of Gapminder software to study population health trends, and modeling techniques to simulate the impact of proposed public health policy interventions.
Short Title : PRIN OF EPIDEMIOLOGY I
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : PUBH 260
Course Description : From its foundations in the London Cholera epidemic of 1854 to emerging epidemics around the globe, epidemiology is an investigative health science using the clues around us to better understand the cause of disease outbreaks and to develop effective strategies for promoting and protecting public health. The science of epidemiology is concerned with measurement, study design and methods which will provide "disease detectives" a solid base of evidence upon which to make decisions about health policy, treatment of diseases and to establish public health priorities. This course will introduce this exciting science through data exercises, case studies and hands-on investigation, which require skill, knowledge and quick thinking to get the job done.
Course will focus on the proper collection and documentation of physical evidence according to the current laws and court proceedings. Discussion will also include new court rulings regarding evidence and expert witness activities.
FRSC-150
Short Title : ECONOMICS OF POVERTY
Active Term : Spring Term / Odd Years
Course Code : ECON 250
Course Description :
This course introduces students to economic theories of poverty, ways to measure it (and the problems associated with these measures), and a description of the success and failures of public policies designed to curtail it. It features a blending of economic reasoning from theoretical and empirical perspectives, which will become part of the students' toolkits in their further endeavors, and a critical comparison of the economics approach and Catholic social teaching. The students will come out of the course becoming critical and intelligent participants in public policy debates and learn to form their own policy recommendations based on their analysis.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS
Active Term : All Terms / All Years
Course Code : ECON 260
Course Description :
The primary goal of this course is to enhance the student's understanding and ability to critically assess contemporary environmental policy. It aims at equipping students with the economic methods and tools used to analyze environmental issues, combining theoretical analysis with discussions on specific environmental policies as applied to water and air pollution, energy issues, climate change, and human health issues. Analytical techniques for estimating the effects of proposed programs are examined. Strengths and weaknesses of benefit-cost analysis in the regulatory process are explored in the context of political economy. Current environmental policy is evaluated.
Short Title : SPECIAL TOPICS IN LIT
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : ENG 328
Course Description :
The special topics seminars invite students to engage in an intensive study of a particular theme, historical moment, author or interdisciplinary topic. Drawn from American, British or European traditions, courses might include Writing and the Environment or Existentialism and Literature. Students may take multiple seminar topics under this course number.
Short Title : US ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : HIS 221
Course Description : With a wide-angled multidisciplinary lens, students in this course explore the central importance of nature and the environment in American history. From Thoreau to pink flamingoes, we trace shifting conceptions of "nature" in American cultural history. In addition, we survey the history of environmental change, focusing on the historical impact of human activity upon local and regional environments from New England to California. Finally, students examine the often contested political and legislative response of Americans to environmental problems since the late 19th century.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : POLI 321
Course Description : Taught utilizing a law school style approach-including a moot court experience-the purpose of this course is to provide an in-depth look at current U.S. environmental law, as well as the underlying technology implicit in a successful environmental law framework. This course will provide an excellent opportunity to improve your oral communication skills. 3 credits.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : POLI 395
Course Description :
This class is premised on the belief that environmental problems are ultimately political conflicts. Accordingly, we focus not only on the substance of environmental issues, but also on the public policy process, and on the skills, tactics and factors that influence the outcomes of the policy process.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : PUBH 201
Course Description :
Environmental Health is an introduction to the role of environmental exposures in human health and disease. Though the focus is on humans, because the human ecological footprint is expanding and has few natural boundaries, the impacts of human activities on the broader environment and non-human systems are equally important to our understanding of the role of environment on health. It is an applied science course that will focus on finding solutions to the many challenges posed by environmental health hazards including chemical, biological and radiation exposures at work, at home and at play-and the choices we must make to minimize personal exposures while participating in an expanding global economy. A major emphasis is on understanding the role of public health in environmental health science while linking these disciplines to broader goals of preserving environmental quality and protecting human health.
Short Title : GLOBAL HEALTH
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : PUBH 211
Course Description :
A person born in Japan can expect to live to 83 while a person born in Eswatini is unlikely to see their 32nd birthday. There are dramatic differences in the health and well being of populations around the world. What explains these disparities and what can be done about them? These questions and more are fundamental to the core of global health. This course will use case studies, interactive exercises and simulations to teach students the core principles of global health while encouraging them to think globally and act locally. Students will learn about cutting-edge methodologies in global health including the use of mobile phones to monitor health, the use of Gapminder software to study population health trends, and modeling techniques to simulate the impact of proposed public health policy interventions.
Short Title : PRIN OF EPIDEMIOLOGY I
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : PUBH 260
Course Description : From its foundations in the London Cholera epidemic of 1854 to emerging epidemics around the globe, epidemiology is an investigative health science using the clues around us to better understand the cause of disease outbreaks and to develop effective strategies for promoting and protecting public health. The science of epidemiology is concerned with measurement, study design and methods which will provide "disease detectives" a solid base of evidence upon which to make decisions about health policy, treatment of diseases and to establish public health priorities. This course will introduce this exciting science through data exercises, case studies and hands-on investigation, which require skill, knowledge and quick thinking to get the job done.
In consultation with advisors, choose three of the following:
Course Code : BIO 198
Course Description :
Exploration of tropical marine habitats including coral reefs, rocky shores, turtle grass and mangrove swamps. Ecological and behavioral adaptations, trophic structure, and species composition are also studied. Snorkeling at offshore reefs is expected, and SCUBA diving is available. The course meets weekly during the winter term in preparation for a 10-day field trip to a tropical field station.
Short Title : MICROBIOLOGY
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 200
Course Description : The study of bacteria and other microbes with emphasis on their structure and function, ecology, biochemistry and research methodologies. The course reviews the biology of microbes and their use as biological and medical research tools. Prerequisites: BIO 142. Corequisite:. 3 credits.
Prerequisites : BIO 140 OR BIO 142
Corequisites : BIO 201
Short Title : MICROBIOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 201
Course Description : An examination of microbes in the biosphere. Microbial collection, culturing, product analysis, aseptic techniques and microscopy are emphasized.
Corequisites : BIO 200
Short Title : INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 230
Course Description : A comparative study of the major invertebrate phyla, their anatomy, physiology, behavior and evolution. Major emphasis on invertebrate animals.
Prerequisites : BIO 146
Corequisites : BIO 231
Short Title : INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 231
Course Description : Field-based study of the morphology, behavior, adaptations, and ecology of invertebrate organisms, comparing various terrestrial, freshwater, and marine habitats.
Corequisites : BIO 230
Short Title : FOREST ECOLOGY
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 272
Course Description : The study of how trees and other organisms of the forest interact, how forests are managed, and their value to human society and Earth. Topics include forest food webs, forest structure, nutrient cycling, forests of the world, logging and resource extraction, disturbance and fire ecology, tree physiology and anatomy, and how climate shapes forest structure, composition, and tree distributions.
Short Title : FOREST ECOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Fall Term / Even Years
Course Code : BIO 273
Course Description : Field and laboratory exercises designed to accompany topics covered in BIO 272. Most lab periods will be outside and may include a weekend field trip to a National Forest. Students will learn to identify many tree species in our local forests and conduct field sampling on nutrient cycling, forest composition, animals of the forest, succession, and environmental quality. Lab exercises include tree ring analysis, leaf litter composition, and wood anatomy.
Short Title : CALIFORNIA ECOSYSTEMS
Active Term : Spring Term / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 286
Course Description :
Introduction to the diverse ecosystems of California including coastal beach and dune, tide pools, redwood forest, oak woodland, numerous montane forests, subalpine woodland, and high desert. This course is a course done during a 12-day field trip to northern California following conclusion of spring semester, staying in campgrounds in tents and/or cabins overnight. Students will learn the dominant plants of California ecosystems, important aspects of their ecology, and the history and future of human disturbance in those ecosystems.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 290
Course Description :
This course includes the study of water and temperature regulation, high altitude, exercise and circadian physiology. It also includes a major library research project.
Prerequisites :
BIO 146
Short Title : THE BIOLOGY OF INSECTS
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 354
Course Description : Insects are the most diverse and abundant group of animals on the face of the earth. This course provides a general view of all aspects of insect biology, including taxonomy, ecology, physiology, agricultural and medical importance, and potential use in forensic investigation. Prerequisites: BIO 146. Corequisite: BIO 355. 3 credits.
Prerequisites : BIO-144 BIO-148
Corequisites : BIO 355
Short Title : THE BIOLOGY OF INSECTS LAB
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 355
Course Description : The laboratory portion of the course is designed to illustrate the concepts and information presented in BIO 354. Specific activities will focus on insect collection, proper preservation, and identification. Corequisite: BIO 354. 1 credit.
Corequisites : BIO 354
Short Title : CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Active Term : Spring Term / Odd Years
Course Code : BIO 372
Course Description :
This course introduces students to the field of conservation biology and its main goal of biological preservaion of all forms. Students will learn some of the basic principles of population genetics, population ecology, and community ecology that are necessary for understanding how to protect individual species and populations. In addition, much of the class will examine the complex, interdisciplinary approach conservation biologists take in achieving their goals, including policy,ethics, and the nuts and bolts of how to protect habitat and build/manage protected areas.
Short Title : FIELD BOTANY
Active Term : Fall Term / Odd Years
Course Code : BIO 392
Course Description : Plant ecology is the study of the interrelationships between plants and their environment, with primary focus on how climate, soils, disturbance, and biotic factors influence plant populations and communities. Comparative analyses of plant community structure and function in relation to disturbance regime and geographical variables will be discussed.
Short Title : RESTORATION ECOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 424
Course Description : An in-depth focus on the principles and practices of ecosystem and habitat restoration, by evaluating case studies of restored waste disposal sites, urban landscapes, surface mine lands, and aquatic habitats, including lakes, streams, wetlands, and watershed ecosystems. Topics addressed in the course include bio- and phytoremediation, biomonitoring, best management practices, and invasive species control strategies. Prerequisites: BIO 146. 3credits.
Prerequisites : BIO 146
Course Code : BIO 198
Course Description :
Exploration of tropical marine habitats including coral reefs, rocky shores, turtle grass and mangrove swamps. Ecological and behavioral adaptations, trophic structure, and species composition are also studied. Snorkeling at offshore reefs is expected, and SCUBA diving is available. The course meets weekly during the winter term in preparation for a 10-day field trip to a tropical field station.
Short Title : MICROBIOLOGY
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 200
Course Description : The study of bacteria and other microbes with emphasis on their structure and function, ecology, biochemistry and research methodologies. The course reviews the biology of microbes and their use as biological and medical research tools. Prerequisites: BIO 142. Corequisite:. 3 credits.
Prerequisites : BIO 140 OR BIO 142
Corequisites : BIO 201
Short Title : MICROBIOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 201
Course Description : An examination of microbes in the biosphere. Microbial collection, culturing, product analysis, aseptic techniques and microscopy are emphasized.
Corequisites : BIO 200
Short Title : INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 230
Course Description : A comparative study of the major invertebrate phyla, their anatomy, physiology, behavior and evolution. Major emphasis on invertebrate animals.
Prerequisites : BIO 146
Corequisites : BIO 231
Short Title : INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 231
Course Description : Field-based study of the morphology, behavior, adaptations, and ecology of invertebrate organisms, comparing various terrestrial, freshwater, and marine habitats.
Corequisites : BIO 230
Short Title : FOREST ECOLOGY
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 272
Course Description : The study of how trees and other organisms of the forest interact, how forests are managed, and their value to human society and Earth. Topics include forest food webs, forest structure, nutrient cycling, forests of the world, logging and resource extraction, disturbance and fire ecology, tree physiology and anatomy, and how climate shapes forest structure, composition, and tree distributions.
Short Title : FOREST ECOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Fall Term / Even Years
Course Code : BIO 273
Course Description : Field and laboratory exercises designed to accompany topics covered in BIO 272. Most lab periods will be outside and may include a weekend field trip to a National Forest. Students will learn to identify many tree species in our local forests and conduct field sampling on nutrient cycling, forest composition, animals of the forest, succession, and environmental quality. Lab exercises include tree ring analysis, leaf litter composition, and wood anatomy.
Short Title : CALIFORNIA ECOSYSTEMS
Active Term : Spring Term / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 286
Course Description :
Introduction to the diverse ecosystems of California including coastal beach and dune, tide pools, redwood forest, oak woodland, numerous montane forests, subalpine woodland, and high desert. This course is a course done during a 12-day field trip to northern California following conclusion of spring semester, staying in campgrounds in tents and/or cabins overnight. Students will learn the dominant plants of California ecosystems, important aspects of their ecology, and the history and future of human disturbance in those ecosystems.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 290
Course Description :
This course includes the study of water and temperature regulation, high altitude, exercise and circadian physiology. It also includes a major library research project.
Prerequisites :
BIO 146
Short Title : THE BIOLOGY OF INSECTS
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 354
Course Description : Insects are the most diverse and abundant group of animals on the face of the earth. This course provides a general view of all aspects of insect biology, including taxonomy, ecology, physiology, agricultural and medical importance, and potential use in forensic investigation. Prerequisites: BIO 146. Corequisite: BIO 355. 3 credits.
Prerequisites : BIO-144 BIO-148
Corequisites : BIO 355
Short Title : THE BIOLOGY OF INSECTS LAB
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 355
Course Description : The laboratory portion of the course is designed to illustrate the concepts and information presented in BIO 354. Specific activities will focus on insect collection, proper preservation, and identification. Corequisite: BIO 354. 1 credit.
Corequisites : BIO 354
Short Title : CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Active Term : Spring Term / Odd Years
Course Code : BIO 372
Course Description :
This course introduces students to the field of conservation biology and its main goal of biological preservaion of all forms. Students will learn some of the basic principles of population genetics, population ecology, and community ecology that are necessary for understanding how to protect individual species and populations. In addition, much of the class will examine the complex, interdisciplinary approach conservation biologists take in achieving their goals, including policy,ethics, and the nuts and bolts of how to protect habitat and build/manage protected areas.
Short Title : FIELD BOTANY
Active Term : Fall Term / Odd Years
Course Code : BIO 392
Course Description : Plant ecology is the study of the interrelationships between plants and their environment, with primary focus on how climate, soils, disturbance, and biotic factors influence plant populations and communities. Comparative analyses of plant community structure and function in relation to disturbance regime and geographical variables will be discussed.
Short Title : RESTORATION ECOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 424
Course Description : An in-depth focus on the principles and practices of ecosystem and habitat restoration, by evaluating case studies of restored waste disposal sites, urban landscapes, surface mine lands, and aquatic habitats, including lakes, streams, wetlands, and watershed ecosystems. Topics addressed in the course include bio- and phytoremediation, biomonitoring, best management practices, and invasive species control strategies. Prerequisites: BIO 146. 3credits.
Prerequisites : BIO 146
Course Code : BIO 198
Course Description :
Exploration of tropical marine habitats including coral reefs, rocky shores, turtle grass and mangrove swamps. Ecological and behavioral adaptations, trophic structure, and species composition are also studied. Snorkeling at offshore reefs is expected, and SCUBA diving is available. The course meets weekly during the winter term in preparation for a 10-day field trip to a tropical field station.
Short Title : MICROBIOLOGY
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 200
Course Description : The study of bacteria and other microbes with emphasis on their structure and function, ecology, biochemistry and research methodologies. The course reviews the biology of microbes and their use as biological and medical research tools. Prerequisites: BIO 142. Corequisite:. 3 credits.
Prerequisites : BIO 140 OR BIO 142
Corequisites : BIO 201
Short Title : MICROBIOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 201
Course Description : An examination of microbes in the biosphere. Microbial collection, culturing, product analysis, aseptic techniques and microscopy are emphasized.
Corequisites : BIO 200
Short Title : INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 230
Course Description : A comparative study of the major invertebrate phyla, their anatomy, physiology, behavior and evolution. Major emphasis on invertebrate animals.
Prerequisites : BIO 146
Corequisites : BIO 231
Short Title : INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 231
Course Description : Field-based study of the morphology, behavior, adaptations, and ecology of invertebrate organisms, comparing various terrestrial, freshwater, and marine habitats.
Corequisites : BIO 230
Short Title : FOREST ECOLOGY
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 272
Course Description : The study of how trees and other organisms of the forest interact, how forests are managed, and their value to human society and Earth. Topics include forest food webs, forest structure, nutrient cycling, forests of the world, logging and resource extraction, disturbance and fire ecology, tree physiology and anatomy, and how climate shapes forest structure, composition, and tree distributions.
Short Title : FOREST ECOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Fall Term / Even Years
Course Code : BIO 273
Course Description : Field and laboratory exercises designed to accompany topics covered in BIO 272. Most lab periods will be outside and may include a weekend field trip to a National Forest. Students will learn to identify many tree species in our local forests and conduct field sampling on nutrient cycling, forest composition, animals of the forest, succession, and environmental quality. Lab exercises include tree ring analysis, leaf litter composition, and wood anatomy.
Short Title : CALIFORNIA ECOSYSTEMS
Active Term : Spring Term / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 286
Course Description :
Introduction to the diverse ecosystems of California including coastal beach and dune, tide pools, redwood forest, oak woodland, numerous montane forests, subalpine woodland, and high desert. This course is a course done during a 12-day field trip to northern California following conclusion of spring semester, staying in campgrounds in tents and/or cabins overnight. Students will learn the dominant plants of California ecosystems, important aspects of their ecology, and the history and future of human disturbance in those ecosystems.
Short Title : ENVIRONMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 290
Course Description :
This course includes the study of water and temperature regulation, high altitude, exercise and circadian physiology. It also includes a major library research project.
Prerequisites :
BIO 146
Short Title : THE BIOLOGY OF INSECTS
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 354
Course Description : Insects are the most diverse and abundant group of animals on the face of the earth. This course provides a general view of all aspects of insect biology, including taxonomy, ecology, physiology, agricultural and medical importance, and potential use in forensic investigation. Prerequisites: BIO 146. Corequisite: BIO 355. 3 credits.
Prerequisites : BIO-144 BIO-148
Corequisites : BIO 355
Short Title : THE BIOLOGY OF INSECTS LAB
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 355
Course Description : The laboratory portion of the course is designed to illustrate the concepts and information presented in BIO 354. Specific activities will focus on insect collection, proper preservation, and identification. Corequisite: BIO 354. 1 credit.
Corequisites : BIO 354
Short Title : CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Active Term : Spring Term / Odd Years
Course Code : BIO 372
Course Description :
This course introduces students to the field of conservation biology and its main goal of biological preservaion of all forms. Students will learn some of the basic principles of population genetics, population ecology, and community ecology that are necessary for understanding how to protect individual species and populations. In addition, much of the class will examine the complex, interdisciplinary approach conservation biologists take in achieving their goals, including policy,ethics, and the nuts and bolts of how to protect habitat and build/manage protected areas.
Short Title : FIELD BOTANY
Active Term : Fall Term / Odd Years
Course Code : BIO 392
Course Description : Plant ecology is the study of the interrelationships between plants and their environment, with primary focus on how climate, soils, disturbance, and biotic factors influence plant populations and communities. Comparative analyses of plant community structure and function in relation to disturbance regime and geographical variables will be discussed.
Short Title : RESTORATION ECOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : BIO 424
Course Description : An in-depth focus on the principles and practices of ecosystem and habitat restoration, by evaluating case studies of restored waste disposal sites, urban landscapes, surface mine lands, and aquatic habitats, including lakes, streams, wetlands, and watershed ecosystems. Topics addressed in the course include bio- and phytoremediation, biomonitoring, best management practices, and invasive species control strategies. Prerequisites: BIO 146. 3credits.
Prerequisites : BIO 146
Introduction to the biology of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including the structure and function of membranes and organelles, especially mitochondria and chloroplasts. Also included are studies of the molecular structure and function of DNA, with emphasis on the organization of the eukaryotic genome, transcription and translation.
BIO 143
In consultation with advisors, choose a science course: GEOL, BIO, or CHEM 200 Level or Higher
Introduction to the biology of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including the structure and function of membranes and organelles, especially mitochondria and chloroplasts. Also included are studies of the molecular structure and function of DNA, with emphasis on the organization of the eukaryotic genome, transcription and translation.
BIO 143
In consultation with advisors, choose a science course: GEOL, BIO, or CHEM 200 Level or Higher
Choose one of the following:
Practical off-campus experience in a consulting company, non-profit organization, or governmental agency. Students carry out field, laboratory, or other tasks appropriate for a professional environmental scientist. In addition to routine work responsibilities, participants are expected to complete an independent project involving data analysis and prepare a formal written report on the experience.
This is the initial course in a sequence of courses on the fundamental ideas of the calculus of one variable intended for science and mathematics majors. It is here that truly significant applications of mathematics begin. Topics follow the early transcendentals path, included are functions, continuity, limits, derivatives, maxima and minima and antiderivatives and an introduction to integration. Prerequisite: MATH 118 or MATH Placement score of at least 76. 4 credits.
Whereas epidemiology is the science of public health, biostatistics is the "toolkit" of the epidemiologist and public health practicitioner with many applications across clinical, evaluation and research settings. Public health scientists must collect and use data to answer key questions about the effectiveness of interventions, monitor the health of populations and make decisions based on evidence. Buidling on a foundation of basic statistics, the course uses real-world health data and simulations to practice applying the same tools used by professional epidemiologists in the field and medical researchers investigating the causes of disease.