BIOL 1401 General Biology [3-3]
(Texas Common Course Number is BIOL 1411.)
Fall, Spring
A study of the basic principles of Biology. Topics will include biological chemistry, cell structure and function, photosynthesis and respiration, DNA structure and function, mitosis, meiosis, Mendelian genetics, evolution and the structure and function of bacteria, viruses, protozoan, algae, fungi and plants. Credit Restriction: Credit may be received in only one of BIOL 1401 or BIOL 1487.

BIOL 1402 General Biology [3-3]
(Texas Common Course Number is BIOL 2401.)
Fall, Spring, Summer
A continuation of Biology 1401. Topics include evolution and diversity of invertebrate and vertebrate animals; mechanisms of support and movement, digestion and nutrition, respiration, circulation homeostasis, hormonal control, nervous control, sexual reproduction, development, behavior and ecology. Credit Restriction: Credit my be received in only one of BIOL 1402 or BIOL 1488. Prerequisite: BIOL 1401.

BIOL 1487 Honors Biology [3-3]
Fall
An accelerated study of the basic principles of Biology. Topics covered include cellular biology, photosynthesis, respiration, protein synthesis, cellular reproduction, genetics, microbial genetics and a survey of the diversity of organisms. Open to students enrolled in the Honors Studies Program or by permission of the instructor. Credit Restriction: Credit may be received in only one of BIOL 1401 or BIOL 1487.

BIOL 1488 Honors Biology [3-3]
Spring
An accelerated study of the basic concepts of Biology. Topics covered include reproduction and development, digestion and nutrition, transport, homeostasis, the nervous system, ecology and evolution. Open to students enrolled in the Honors Studies Program or by permission of the instructor. Credit Restriction: Credit may be received in only one of BIOL 1402 or BIOL 1488.

BIOL 2201 Special Problems in Biology [1-2]
As Scheduled
Study of special topics in Biology for freshman- and sophomore-level students. The course will involve the independent study of a specific problem through conferences and activities directed by the instructor. Student must receive approval of instructor for study of specific problem prior to registration.

BIOL 2305 Environmental Biology [3-3]
As Scheduled
A consideration of the biological problems of population expansion, environmental destruction and resource conservation as they relate to man's past, present and future.

BIOL 2401 Vertebrate Zoology [3-3]
As Scheduled
A basic introductory course dealing with the fundamental biological principles and concepts. Designed to acquaint the student with structure, physiology and life histories of representative vertebrate types. Prerequisite: BIOL 1401.

BIOL 2402 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy [3-3]
(Texas Common Course Number is BIOL 2428.)
As Scheduled
Comparative studies of the morphological, embryological and physiological relationships among vertebrates, with inclusion of histological and paleontological data. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

BIOL 2403 Anatomy and Physiology [3-3]
(Texas Common Course Number is BIOL 2401.)
Fall, Spring, Summer
A study of the structure and function of the human body including cells, tissues, and organs of the following systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous system and special senses. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

BIOL 2404 Anatomy and Physiology [3-3]
(Texas Common Course Number is 2402.)
Fall, Spring, Summer
A continuation of BIOL 2403. Includes endocrine, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Other topics include metabolism, acid-base balance, development and heredity. Prerequisite: BIOL 2403.

BIOL 2408 A Survey of Biology [3-3]
As Scheduled
A one-semester survey course designed to introduce the basic biologic concepts in the following areas: the chemistry of life, cell structure, function and reproduction, the kingdoms of life, interactions within ecosystems and basic anatomy and physiology of the major systems of the human body. Will not count toward a major or minor in Biology. Prerequisites: PSCI 1421 and PSCI 1422.

BIOL 3301 Biological Evolution [3-0]
As Scheduled
Genetic, ecological, and paleontological aspects of evolution. Includes review of evolutionary history and thought, species concepts, speciation, and other evolutionary processes. Emphasis is on evolutionary mechanisms. Prerequisites: BIOL 1401 and BIOL 1402, or permission of instructor.

BIOL 3310 Neurobiology
As Scheduled
Studies of nervous systems. Topics range from physiology of single neurons to neural basis of behavior in intact animals. This course emphasizes comparative methods, with examples drawn from a wide range of invertebrates and vertebrates. Prerequisites: BIOL2403 and BIOL3411.

BIOL 3401 General Microbiology [3-3]
Fall, Spring, Summer
A general survey of the field of microbiology with emphasis on bacteria. Topics will include structure, growth, reproduc-tion, metabolism, genetics and taxonomy of bacteria; a general survey of fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses and microbiology of soil, water, foods and industry. Laboratory work will include staining, growing, biochemistry, charac-terization and control of bacteria with a general survey of other microorganisms. Prerequisites: BIOL 1401 and BIOL 1402; CHEM 1301 and CHEM 1101, CHEM 1302 and CHEM 1102.

BIOL 3403 Medical Microbiology and  Immunology [3-3]
Fall, Spring
A study of microorganisms that cause disease and immune response of the host to these pathogens. Emphasis will be on principles of immunology and selected infectious disease processes. Laboratory exercises will include a study of
basic serologic procedures and cultural characteristics of related pathogenic microorganisms. Prerequisite: BIOL 3401.

BIOL 3405 Histology [3-3]
As Scheduled
Lectures in this offering will place major emphasis on the structure and function of major tissue types and their cellular components. The laboratory will provide an opportunity for first-hand experience in examining the microscopic structure of the major tissue types and their relationships in organ structure. Prerequisites: 12 hours of Biology including 4 hours from BIOL 2401, BIOL 2402 or BIOL 2403.

BIOL 3407 Comparative Embryology [3-3]
As Scheduled
Developmental studies from the zygote through embryological stages (chiefly concerned with amphibians, birds and mammals). Prerequisites: 9 hours of Biology, including 4 hours from BIOL 2401, BIOL 2402 or BIOL 2403. BIOL 3413 recommended.

BIOL 3408 Plant Morphology [3-3]
As Scheduled
A study of the morphology, development and relationships of fungi, algae, liverworts, mosses, ferns, gymnosperms and angiosperms. Particular attention is given to the evolution of these groups. Prerequisite: 9 hours of biology, including BIOL 1402.

BIOL 3409 Ecology [3-3]
Fall, Spring
A study of the basic environmental factors affecting plants and animals, and their relation to economic and conservation problems. Field work. Prerequisite: 12 hours of biology.

BIOL 3410 A Survey of the Plant Kingdom [3-3]
A study of the anatomy and physiology of plants, based on the study of higher plants, together with a correlative and comparative survey of the plant kingdom. Emphasis will be placed on the development, reproduction and relationships of plants to man.

BIOL 3411 Mammalian Physiology [3-3]
As Scheduled
A survey of the physiological mechanisms of the organs and organ systems of mammals with emphasis on man. The laboratory will provide experiences with modern techniques. Topics will include muscle, nerve, digestive, urinary, respiratory, circulatory and reproductive systems. Prerequisites: 12 hours of biology, including 4 hours from BIOL 2401, BIOL 2402 or BIOL 2403, and 8 hours of chemistry.

BIOL 3412 Cell Biology [3-3]
As Scheduled
A study of cell structure and function with emphasis on bio-energetics, membranes, genes and genetic control, cell division and its regulation, and cellular differentiation. Prerequisites: BIOL 1401 and BIOL 1402; CHEM 2102, and CHEM 2302.

BIOL 3413 Genetics [3-3]
Fall, Spring
Introductory lectures and laboratories in classical genetics. Topics will include Mendelian genetics, cell mechanics, sex determination, sex linkage, DNA structure and function, genetic linkage, crossing over, gene mapping, mutation, regulation of gene expression, chromosomal variations, population genetics and evolution. Prerequisites: BIOL 1401 and BIOL 1402; CHEM 1301, CHEM 1101, CHEM 1302 and CHEM 1102.

BIOL 3414 Invertebrate Zoology [3-3]
Fall
Study of the comparative morphology, evolution, systematics and natural history of the invertebrates. Recommended as a preparatory course for BIOL 4402, BIOL 4407, BIOL 4415 and BIOL 5316. Prerequisites: 6 hours of biology and junior standing.

BIOL 3415 Introduction to Molecular Biology [3-3]
As Scheduled
An introduction to the structure and function of biological macromolecules.  Topics include structure of nucleic acids and proteins, DNA replication and repair, transcription, translation, bacteriophages, mobile genetic elements, genetic engineering, and gene regulation.  Prerequites: BIOL 1401 and BIOL 1402; CHEM 1301, CHEm 1101, CHEM 1302, and CHEM 1102.

BIOL 4100 Biology Seminar [1-0]
Fall, Spring
A study of current biological literature and the discussion of research in progress. Required of all biology majors in their senior year; open to non-majors only by permission.

BIOL 4201 Biology Problems [1-2]
As Scheduled
A course adapted to the study of special topics in biology. For advanced students capable of developing a problem independently through conference and activities directed by the instructor. Problem is chosen by the student with the approval of the instructor prior to registration. Prerequisite: Major in biology with at least junior standing.

BIOL 4202 Biology Problems [1-2]
As Scheduled
A continuation of BIOL 4201. Prerequisite: BIOL 4201.

BIOL 4303 Mammalogy [2-3]
Spring
A study of anatomy, evolution, distribution, systematics, ecology and physiology of mammals of North America, with special emphasis on local forms. Prerequisite: 9 hours of biology.

BIOL 4304 Ichthyology [2-3]
Fall
A study of ecology, distribution, adaptations, physiology, systematics and evolution of freshwater and marine fishes, with an emphasis on local forms. Laboratories will stress identification and other practical applications of modern ichthyological techniques. Prerequisite: 9 hours of biology.

BIOL 4305 Plant Physiology [3-3]
As Scheduled
An introduction of the basic principles of the physiology, growth and development of plants. Prerequisite: 6 hours of biology.

BIOL 4309 Herpetology [2-3]
Fall
A study of the anatomy, evolution, distribution, systematics, ecology and physiology of amphibians and reptiles; primarily of North American species, with special emphasis on local forms. Prerequisites: 8 hours of introductory biology (1400-level) and BIOL 2401 or BIOL 2402.

BIOL 4311 Ecological Physiology [2-3]
As Scheduled
A comparative study of the physiological adaptations of vertebrate animals to their environments. Emphasis is placed on the physiological basis of animal distribution and evolution. Prerequisite: 12 hours of biology, including BIOL 2401 or BIOL 2402.

BIOL 4314 Plant Taxonomy [2-3]
As Scheduled
Identification of vascular plants, with emphasis on native flowering plants. Prerequisite: 9 hours of biology, including BIOL 1402.

BIOL 4402 Marine Zoology [3-3]
Summer
A study of the common marine animals, especially invertebrates in coastal waters. Particular attention is given to structural and physiological relationships. Strenuous field work required. Students must provide their own transportation to and from South Padre Island or other field trip sites. Prerequisites: 9 hours of biology (BIOL 3414 recommended) and junior standing.

BIOL 4404 General Virology
Fall
Comprehensive course that covers fundamental aspects on the effect of viruses on procaryotic and eucaryotic organisms. It also covers interactions between viruses and populations and the impact of viral diseases on organisms, mechanisms of replication and strategies of viral gene expression.
Prerequisites: BIOL 3401 (BIOL 3403 recommended)

BIOL 4406 Mycology
As scheduled.
This course will provide training in the following areas: fungal morphology and taxonomy, structure and function relationships, physiology and genetics, molecular biology, parasitism of animals and plants, and applied and environmental mycology.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1401 and 1402; BIOL 3401, 3412, or 3413; $4 laboratory fee.

BIOL 4407 Animal Parasitology [3-3]
Spring
Introduction to study of parasitic protozoa and worms (especially trematodes, cestodes, nematodes and acanthocephala). Prerequisites: 9 hours of biology, including 4 hours from BIOL 2401, BIOL 2402, BIOL 2403 or BIOL 3414, and junior standing.

BIOL 4408 Plant Pathology [3-3]
As Scheduled
An introductory course on the causes, nature and control of plant diseases. Emphasis will be given to diseases of plants of economic importance. Prerequisite: 6 hours of biology.

BIOL 4410 Marine Botany [3-3]
As Scheduled
A study of the common local marine flora with emphasis on macroscopic algae, sea grasses and terrestrial angiosperms. Students are expected to furnish their own transportation to field laboratory sessions at South Padre Island. Prerequisite: 9 hours of biology, including BIOL 1402.

BIOL 4412 Ornithology [3-3]
As Scheduled
Principles of avian classification, morphology and ecology, including migration, distribution and relationships to man. Field work. Prerequisite: 9 hours of biology, including 4 hours from BIOL 2401, BIOL 2402 or BIOL 2403. $4 laboratory fee.

BIOL 4414 Freshwater Macroinvertebrates [3-3]
As Scheduled
A study of the systematics, evolution and ecology of freshwater insects, crustaceans and mollusks. Emphasis will be on local aquatic habitats. Laboratories will consist of field trips and identification of specimen. Prerequisite: 9 hours of biology.

BIOL 4415 Entomology [3-3]
Spring
An introduction to the study of insects and other arthropods of agricultural, medical and veterinary importance. Includes basic insect morphology, physiology, classification and pest management. Laboratory consists of insect identification supported by field trips. Prerequisite: BIOL 3414.

BIOL 4416 Environmental Toxicology [3-3]
Fall
A survey of interaction of environmental pollutants with living systems. Laboratory consists of toxicological evaluation of selected environmental chemicals. Prerequisites: BIOL 3412 and 6 hours of organic chemistry or biochemistry.

BIOL 4420/5420 Biotechnology
This course will utilize the computational methods, on-line databases, and internet resources present in the biological sciences and apply them to answer questions in biology ranging from organism development to human disease. The laboratory portion of the class will be computer and internet based. Students will explore on-line database
resources to answer specific questions in a wide variety of areas relating to cellular and molecular biology. Pre-requisite: BIOL 1401 and 1402.

BIOL 4422 Neurobiology Methods
An intensive introduction to techniques for studying neural anatomy and
physiology, including staining, labelling, extracellular recording, and
intracellular recording. Invertebrates are used as subjects.
Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and BIOL 3310.

Note: This course has been approved but is still in preparation. It is
unlikely to be offered before Spring 2006.