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Introduction
Biology is the scientific study of life in all its astonishing forms from its origins some 4 billion years ago to the present day. This experimental science involves an examination of life on multiple scales from the molecular to the global. Though difficult to define, the study of life rests upon two fundamental notions. The first is that living systems operate via basic thermodynamic and kinetic principles. The second is the unifying concept of evolution, the most original and important idea of the modern era. Given these principles and great time, life has generated immense and complex diversity. Biologists strive to understand and manage this diversity by examining the genetic history and special features of each species as well as the interactions between each species and its environment.
On a more applied level, biologists are concerned with the impact humans have had and continue to have upon the environment and how, in turn, the environment affects our own quality of life. Additionally, new discoveries in biology often have social, political, economic, and ethical implications. Biology provides both the knowledge and the tools required to understand these complex problems and challenges.
Beyond the basic but substantive curriculum, several specialized programs are available through the Department of Biology. The Department’s newest specialized programs include Bioinformatics and Environmental Science with a concentration in Biology Field Studies. The environmental program is coordinated with a similar program in the Geology Department and students benefit from specialized training in both subjects. In support of the Environmental Science program, the Biology Department utilizes two natural areas owned by the University in the Erie area: The Jean B. and J. Douglas James Ecological & Wildlife Preserve on the Asbury Woods Greenway and the Mary Jo and Ed Maier Field Station located on Elk Creek near Lake City.
The Department 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 at Presque Isle.
Consortium facilities available to Mercyhurst biology students include well-equipped research and teaching laboratories, classrooms, greenhouse, natural history collections, sampling equipment and research vessels.
Mercyhurst is a member of Beta Beta Beta, a national honor and professional society for students dedicated to improving the understanding and appreciation of biological study and extending boundaries of human knowledge through scientific research.
Mercyhurst students who aspire to teach biology at the secondary level can earn a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology, a Master of Science degree in Secondary Education, and become certified to teach grades 7 through 12, in a total of five years.
The course requirements for a biology major fit well with coursework necessary to apply to pharmacy, medical, veterinary, physician’s assitant, and dental schools, among other health professional programs. To increase opportunities for students interested in the health professions, the University has cooperative agreements with several professional schools.
Mission Statement
The primary goal of the Department of Biology is to provide thorough and basic training in the broad field of biology through a forwardlooking and comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and the development of a scientific perspective. This includes instruction by dedicated faculty in each of the principal areas within biology and supporting coursework in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Central to the program is the Department’s commitment to experiential learning through rigorous laboratory exercises, hands-on field experiences, and the opportunity to participate in faculty-student collaborative research, travel courses, professional conferences, community service, and professional practicum training. Personal attention and close interaction between faculty and student provides the biology major with a solid core of learning, experience, and preparation, and the means to secure fulfilling employment or continue their education at the graduate and professional level.
Advising
A great college education depends upon human relationships and good advising is central to creating a positive educational environment for the student. Upon enrollment in the department an advisor is assigned to the student. Additional specialized faculty advisors are available for students in specific career alternatives including medicine and other health professions, secondary education and any of the concentrations offered by the department. These advisors assist the student with course selection, keep student records, monitor student achievements, and guide students through the application process to graduate and professional schools.
Anatomy Minor
BIO 142/143Cellular and Molecular Biology & Lab - 4 credits
BIO 146/147Ecology and Evolutionary Biology of Organisms & Lab - 4 credits
BIO 244/245 Histology & Lab - 4 Credits
BIO 246 Embryology - 3 credits
Choice of:
BIO 240/241 Human Anatomy and Physiology I & Lab - 4 Credits
AND
BIO 250/251 Human Anatomy and Physiology II & Lab - 4 Credits
OR
BIO 334/335 Human Anatomy & Lab - 4 Credits
One additional anatomy-themed elective course - 3 credits
Biology Minor
BIO 142/143Cellular and Molecular Biology & Lab - 4 credits
BIO 146/147Ecology and Evolutionary Biology of Organisms & Lab - 4 credits
Four (4) additional Biology courses 200 or higher - 12-16 credits
The Biology Department has identified four learning outcomes that all biology majors should meet before they earn their degree. Upon completion of the Biology curriculum all students should be able to:
The Biology Department offers courses leading to the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology. Those who expect to attend graduate or professional schools after graduation are strongly encouraged to also pursue the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology. Biology majors must maintain a 2.50 GPA in the major program as well as an overall GPA of 2.50. Biology majors in the 4+1 accelerated program leading to the M.S. in Secondary Education must maintain a 3.00 GPA in the major program and overall. Students accepted to the 2+3 and 3+3 accelerated programs in Pharmacy must maintain an overall and science GPA of 3.40 with no grade lower than a “C”. Those enrolled in the 3+4 accelerated programs in Medicine must maintain an overall GPA of 3.40 and a science GPA of 3.20 with no grade lower than a “C”. Students earning a grade lower than “C” in a major or cognate course must repeat the class and earn a grade level of Pass.
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
Introduction to the physiological and molecular techniques and methodologies for studying cells, organelles and macromolecules in relation to cellular activities and maintenance of life.
BIO 142
BIO 147
A laboratory course that elucidates concepts taught in BIO 146 from a largely experimental perspective.
BIO 146
A general introduction to the science of behavior and mental processes. Topics considered include learning, memory, perception, motivation, personality, psychopathology and social interaction.
This course explores the biological basis of behavior and experience, including the role of the brain in emotions, learning, memory, motivation, sleep, perception, consciousness, and psychological disorders. The course also considers how the brain recovers from damage.
Practical off-campus experience in a hospital, private industry, or governmental agency. Students carry out field, laboratory, or other tasks appropriate for a professional biologist. 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.
Choose five (5) of the following:
Laboratory experience to accompany General Physics I.
PHYS 201
Short Title : GENETICS
Active Term : All Terms / All Years
Course Code : BIO 310
Course Description : Study of mechanisms of inheritance from Mendelian principles to modern concepts of molecular, cellular, and population genetics. The fine structure and function of genetic material is covered along with statistical methods of analyzing inheritance.
Prerequisites : BIO-142,BIO-146
Corequisites : BIO 311
Short Title : GENETICS LAB
Active Term : All Terms / All Years
Course Code : BIO 311
Course Description : Examination of classical patterns of inheritance in fungi and Drosophila melanogaster and molecular genetic techniques using viruses and bacteria are undertaken. Statistical methods of analysis including probability and chi square are utilized. Students pursue independent investigation of gene action at either the classical or molecular level.
Corequisites : BIO 310
Short Title : COMP VERTEBRATE ANATOMY
Active Term : Spring Term / Even Years
Course Code : BIO 320
Course Description :
A comparative study of the organ systems of the vertebrate animals from an evolutionary and developmental perspective.
Prerequisites :
BIO-146
Corequisites :
BIO 321
Short Title : COMP VERTEBRATE ANAT LAB
Active Term : Spring Term / Even Years
Course Code : BIO 321
Course Description :
The detailed dissection of representative vertebrates.
Corequisites :
BIO 320
Short Title : IMMUNOLOGY
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 330
Course Description : The study of the human immune system. Beginning with the chemical properties of antigens, the course investigates the various avenues of defense of the human immune response. The basic structure and function of immunoglobulins and other major immunological molecules originating from major loci in DNA.
Prerequisites : BIO-142 CHEM-240
Short Title : HUMAN ANATOMY
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 334
Course Description : A course on the detailed anatomy and histology of all organ systems of the human body. A regional perspective will be used in some cases. This course is designed for students considering a career in the allied health professions.
Prerequisites : BIO 120, BIO 130 OR BIO 142
Corequisites : BIO 271
Short Title : HUMAN ANATOMY LAB
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 335
Course Description : A laboratory course designed to demonstrate through models, microscopic work and dissection the information presented in Bio 334.
Corequisites : BIO 270
Short Title : NEUROANATOMY
Active Term : Spring Term / Even Years
Course Code : BIO 336
Course Description : Neuroanatomy will deal with the anatomical structure and organization of the mammalian central nervous system and provide the student with hands-on opportunities to better illustrate the material covered. Clinical cases will be used as a teaching tool in order to integrate knowledge of structures, functional systems, and medical diseases and disorders.
Short Title : HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY
Active Term : Spring Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 344
Course Description : A course which explains the functional properties of the organ systems of the human body.
Prerequisites : BIO-320 OR BIO-334, BIO-142 BIO-143
Corequisites : BIO 281
Short Title : HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY LAB
Active Term : Spring Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 345
Course Description : A course which demonstrates the principles and concepts taught in BIO 344 through a variety of experimental projects.
Corequisites : BIO 280
Short Title : CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY
Active Term : Spring Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 370
Course Description :
The study of the molecular control mechanisms regulating the dynamics of integrated metabolism in cells and organ systems. The structural and functional aspects of genes and the importance of their products as exogenous and endogenous controls of integrated cellular metabolism are emphasized.
Prerequisites :
BIO-142 CHEM-240
Corequisites :
BIO 371
Short Title : CELLULAR BIOCHEM LAB
Active Term : Spring Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 371
Course Description :
Study of the procedures and methodologies applied in the investigation of cellular biochemical activities of prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells and organelles.
Corequisites :
BIO 370
Short Title : MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Active Term : Spring Term / Odd Years
Course Code : BIO 430
Course Description : Study of the structural and functional aspects of organelles and gene products in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, including their transcription and translation into functional proteins during cell development and reproduction. Oncogene functions, recombinant DNA technology, and alterations of gene functions are also explored.
Prerequisites : BIO-310
Short Title : NEUROBIOLOGY
Active Term : Spring Term / All Years
Course Code : BIO 450
Course Description : The study of the organization and function of the human nervous system. This course emphasizes the relationship between structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of the brain regions, the cellular mechanisms of synaptic transmission and nervous system development. Neurological and mental disorders are also covered.
Prerequisites : BIO 344 OR PSYC 252
Short Title : ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY
Active Term : All Terms / All Years
Course Code : PSYC 211
Course Description :
The major forms of psychopathology that appear in childhood and adult life. Topics include the symptomatology of mental disorders; their etiology from psychological, biological, and sociocultural perspectives; and issues pertaining to diagnosis, treatment, ethics, and the legal system.
Short Title : HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY
Active Term : Spring Term / All Years
Course Code : PSYC 225
Course Description :
This course focuses on the relationship and interaction of the mind and body. That is, how psychological functioning relates to illness and disease; treatment and outcome; and recovery and cure. In addition, the student will be introduced to the impact of age, gender and ethnicity on the availability of, use of, and access to health care. The relationship of stress and lifestyle on the immune system, wellness and disease will be discussed. The psychological and physical interaction of some of today's major health issues such as eating, smoking, drinking, cancer and heart disease are presented with a discussion of treatment and outcome. Also, lifetime accommodation to chronic illness/disease based on psychological adjustment is reviewed. Other topics include: response to terminal illness, adjustment to trauma and the current industrialization of health care.
Short Title : LEARNING & MOTIVATION
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : PSYC 236
Course Description :
This course provides an overview on the behavioral and neurobiological bases of learning, motivation and memory. Lessons are conveyed through discussion of clinical studies on amnesia and other abnormalities with humans, as well as through discussion of experimental results obtained by behavior analytic, anatomical, electrophysiological and biochemical techniques using non-human models.
Short Title : MEMORY AND COGNITION
Active Term : Fall Term / All Years
Course Code : PSYC 237
Course Description :
This course provides a survey of research into such human mental processes as perception, attention, memory, language, decision making and creativity. It explores the domain of cognitive psychology (part of an active interdisciplinary approach known as cognitive science), a vibrant sub-field in psychology that emphasizes people's mental processes and knowledge.
Short Title : DRUGS AND HUMAN BEHAVIOR
Active Term : Spring Term / All Years
Course Code : PSYC 253
Course Description :
This course covers basic principles of psychopharmacology, including the effects of stimulants, depressants, opioids, psychedelics, cannabis, as well as alcohol, caffeine and tobacco. Also considered is the nature of addiction and modalities of treatment and prevention of drug abuse.
Prerequisites :
PSYC 101
Short Title : TOPICS BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCI
Active Term : Fall / Odd Years
Course Code : PSYC 352
Course Description :
This seminar course will provide depth to the neurosciences through student and instructor discussion. Primary source research will be presented and discussed in great detail. Topics may include, but are not limited to the following: electrophysiology, neuropharmacology, drug abuse, systems level analysis, neurology, specific psychological disorders, and biostatistics.This course will culminate with a student capstone experience.
Prerequisites :
PSYC 252
Short Title : TOPICS PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY
Active Term : Randomly / Randomly
Course Code : PSYC 353
Course Description :
This seminar will have students lead discussion on the latest findings regarding such substances as opioids, psychedelics, cannabinoids, or emerging psychotherapeutic agents. Primary source research will be presented and discussed in great detail. This course will culminate with a student capstone project.
Prerequisites :
PSYC 211, or PSYC 252, or PSYC 253 or Instructor Permission.
Experimental work corequisite to General Chemistry I.
CHEM 121
Experimental techniques corequisite to CHEM 240. Crystallization, distillation and other methods used for the isolation and purification of organic compounds. Corequisite: CHEM 240. 1 credit.
CHEM 132
CHEM 240
This course is an algebra-based physics course designed both for students with science majors and as a laboratory science course in the core curriculum. A working knowledge of algebra and the basics of trigonometry are required. The major topics that will be covered include: Newtonian mechanics, circular motion, energy, momentum, rotational motion and Fluid mechanics. Though concepts of physics will be discussed in detail, the focus of the course will be problem-solving techniques.
MATH 112 OR MATH 118 OR MATH 170
PHYS 103
Laboratory experience to accompany Principles of Physics I.
PHYS 101
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
Math course numbered 109 or higher; STAT 120 STATISTICS FOR RESEARCH is highly recommended.
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
Math course numbered 109 or higher
