PC biology professors are quick to point out that a good education is not limited to the classroom. Educational journeys may be as simple as a short afternoon trip to a nearby pond. Other opportunites range from a weekend jaunt to the mountains to spending weeks scuba diving in the Caribbean or the Great Barrier Reef; or investigating the ecology of the desert southwest, the Australian Outback, or even the Great Plains of Africa.

101L. General Biology Laboratory I (1) (One 3-hr lab weekly; coreq: BIOL 101)
Laboratory course that supplements and expands on topics presented in BIOL 101. Cannot be taken separately from BIOL 101 except by consent of instructor. (Fall)

102. General Biology II (3) (Prereq: BIOL 101 and 101L; Coreq: BIOL 102L)
A continuation of topics introduced in BIOL 101. Includes a survey of human physiology, ecology, and evolution. (Spring)

102L. General Biology Laboratory II (1) (One 3-hr lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 101 and 101L; coreq: BIOL 102)
Laboratory course that supplements and expands on topics presented in BIOL 102. Cannot be taken separately from BIOL 102 except by consent of instructor. (Spring)

111. Principles of Biology I (3) (Coreq: BIOL 111L)
The first of a two-semester sequence designed for students wishing to major in biology. Emphases include scientific methodology, biochemistry, cell structure and function, genetics, and evolution. (Fall)

111L. Principles of Biology Laboratory I (1) (One 3-hr lab weekly; coreq: BIOL 111)
A laboratory designed to supplement course content of BIOL 111 and provide experience in contemporary research methods in the life sciences. Emphases include research methods, biochemistry, cell structure and function, genetics, and evolution. (Fall)

112. Principles of Biology II (3) (Coreq: BIOL 112L; prereq: BIOL 111 or consent of instructor)
The second semester of the introductory course designed for biology majors. Emphases include organismal biology, anatomy, development, physiology, and ecology. (Spring)

112L. Principles of Biology Laboratory II (1) (One 3-hr lab weekly; coreq: BIOL 112)
A laboratory designed to supplement course content of BIOL 112 with contemporary research methods in the life sciences. Emphases include systematics, functional morphology, physiology, and ecology. (Spring)

198-199. Summer Readings in the Biological Sciences (0.5)
An individual study of selected biological papers and books to be completed before a biology major's senior year. (Fall)

201. Invertebrate Zoology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 111-112 or consent of instructor)
Studies of the principal phyla of the invertebrates emphasizing their increasing complexity of structure, physiology, ecology and evolutionary relationships. (Fall)

202. Vertebrate Zoology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 101-102)
Lectures deal with the taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and evolution of principal vertebrate groups. Lab treats ecology, taxonomy, population biology, identification, and morphology with emphasis on local forms. (Fall, alternate years)

203. Introductory Botany (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 111- 112 or consent of instructor)
Intensive review of phyla of plant kingdom. Morphology, physiology, reproduction, ecology and principles of classification studied in each group. (Spring)

206. Taxonomy of Native and Economic Plants (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 101-102)
The classification and identification of common and economically important vascular plants with attention given to ecological associations of native plants in South Carolina. The cultural and economic impact of herbal and medicinal plants will be examined. (Fall, alternate years)

207. Biogeography (4) (Prereq: BIOL 111-112 or consent of instructor)
Biogeography is the study of distributions of organisms, both past and present. It is the science that attempts to describe the patterns and distribution of species and larger taxonomic groups. Lecture and laboratory experiences will complement each other in an effort to comprehensively explore the ideas, philosophies, procedures, and techniques involved in biogeography. (Spring)

209. Cell Biology (4) (Prereq: BIOL 101-102, 101L-102L, CHEM 101-102, 101L-102L)
A study of the structure and function of the eukaryotic cell that includes a review of the biological macromolecules and chemical processes of the cell. The structure and functions of cell membranes, cellular organelles, and the cytoskeleton and the processes of protein synthesis and sorting, enzyme catalysis, cell movement, the cell cycle, and intracellular signaling are included. Lab exercises will include light and electron microscopy, cell fractionation, and cell tissue culture. (Fall)

212. Evolution (4) (3 hrs lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 101-102 or 111-112 or consent of instructor)
The history and development of evolutionary theory from Darwinism in the 19th century to the Modern Synthesis of the 1950's to the most recent concepts and innovations. Includes references to the influence of evolutionary thought on 20th century ideas in science and humanities. (Spring)

215. Environmental Science (3) (Prereq: BIOL 101-101L and 102-102L or CHEM 101-101L and 102-102L or PHYS 121-121L and 122-122L)
Designed to show the student's relationship to and dependence on the environment and to create an awareness of environmental problems. Areas of study include concepts of ecology, population, resources, pollution, problems of world hunger, and ethics. Offered upon demand. (Fall)

215L. Environmental Science Lab (1)
A laboratory experience that correlates with topics covered in BIOL 215 lecture and is designed to show the student's relationship to and dependence on the environment. Experimentation, field monitoring, field trips to selected sites, videos, and lectures will bring the student first hand knowledge and awareness of environmental problems and solutions. This lab is a supplement to BIOL 215 and is required of a major taking BIOL 215 but optional for nonmajors. (Fall)

216. Introduction to Marine Biology and Oceanography (4) (Prereq: BIOL 101-102)
A study of the biological, geological, chemical, and physical aspects of the oceans. Topics studied involve history of oceanography, geology of oceans and ocean basins, chemical and physical aspects, waves and tide, ocean currents and coastal oceanography, major marine phyla, marine algae, and marine ecology. (Spring)

258. Special Topics (1-6). See page 37 in Book of Majors.

302. Comparative Anatomy (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 102 or 112)
A comparative study of vertebrate morphology. Gross and microscopic anatomy of organ systems will be examined on representatives of the major classes of vertebrates. (Fall, alternate years)

303. Human Anatomy and Embryology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112; open to juniors or seniors only)
The student will gain proficiency in anatomical dissections (cat) This course concerns the functional morphology of the various organs within the human body and integrates these organ functions into systems that serve the needs of the human body for growth, maintenance and repair, and reproduction. There will be extensive use of CD-ROM programs for anatomical simulation. (Fall, alternate years)

304. Developmental Biology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or consent of instructor, cell biology or genetics is recommended)
Suggested for junior and senior biology majors. The integrated fields of cytology, genetics, biochemistry, and anatomy culminate in the study of development. Students will examine how complex living systems result from an undifferentiated single cell and the forces that drive such specialization. Lectures center on development at the cellular level. The laboratory is primarily concerned with experimental embryology of selected invertebrates and lower vertebrates. (Spring)

306. Microbiology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 111-112, CHEM 101-102, 101L-102L)
A study of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria. Topics include characteristics of prokaryotes, viruses, immunology, disease, genetics, metabolism, growth, and applied and environmental microbiology. The laboratory emphasizes development of sterile techniques and provides students both basic and applied exercises. (Spring)

307. Biochemistry I (3) (Prereq: BIOL 101-102, 101L-102L, CHEM 221-221L; CHEM 222 is strongly recommended; cross-listed with chemistry)
An introductory course in biochemistry. Starting with an overview of the cell, the structure and function of amino acids, proteins, lipids, membranes, and carbohydrates are covered. The remainder of the course involves a detailed discussion of the bioenergetics and metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids, and steroids. Included is a limited discussion on diseases caused by inborn errors of metabolism. (Fall)

307L. Biochemistry I Lab (1) (One 3-hr lab weekly; prereq/coreq: BIOL/CHEM 307, BIOL 101-102, BIOL 101L-102L, CHEM 221, and CHEM 221L; CHEM 222 is strongly recommended; cross-listed with chemistry)
Experiments in amino acid and protein analysis, protein purification, membrane lipid analysis, carbohydrates and cellular metabolism. Also included are the techniques of electrophoresis, chromatography, spectrometry, and cell fractionation. (Fall)

308-308L. Biochemistry II (4) (3 hrs lecture, one 3-hr lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 101-102, 101L-102L, CHEM 221, CHEM 221L; cross-listed with chemistry)
The function of enzymes, enzyme catalysis, and enzyme kinetics. Biosynthesis of nucleotides; DNA structure; the processes of replication, transcription and translation; DNA biotechnology; control of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes; viruses; and oncongenes. Laboratory exercises will include enzyme catalysis and kinetics and the techniques of recombinant DNA. (Spring)

310. Histology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 101-102)
Emphasis in both lecture and lab on structure of the various cell types and their relationship in formation of tissues and organs of the vertebrate body. Some function included as it relates to and complements structure. (Spring, alternate years)

311. Physiology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 101-102, CHEM 101-102, 101L-102L/112L; one year of organic chemistry and one year of physics are strongly recommended)
A study of the basic functional phenomena of living organisms from unicellular through multicellular animals emphasizing the comparative approach. The laboratory portion includes studies of the following: osmotic phenomena, ionic effects, small animal metabolism, hormones, circulation, respiration, and muscle physiology. (Fall)

312. Plant Physiology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 111-112 or consent of instructor, CHEM 101- 102, 101L-102L; one year of organic chemistry is recommended)
This course is designed as an introduction into how plant cells function from seed germination to vegetative growth, maturation, and flowering. Topics include: water relationships, plant biochemistry, development, and environmental physiology. The laboratory portion includes studies of transpiration, plant mineral requirements, plant development, tissue culture, photosynthesis, and enzyme activity.

314. Ecology (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 101-102)
A study of the interrelationships of plants and animals in their physical and biological environments. Structure and dynamics of the major ecosystems, with emphasis on individual behavior, populations and communities. Lab and field work includes studies of natural and polluted systems. (Fall, alternate years)

318. Immunology (4) (Prereq: BIOL 101-102)
Suggested for junior and senior biology majors. A study of the principles of immunology. Lecture topics include organs, cells, and pathways of the immune response, antigens, antibodies, immune specificity, humoral and cellular immunity, development, activation and regulation of the immune response, and immune disorders. Laboratory exercises include identification of the components of the immune system, antibody/antigen interactions, immunoassays, delayed vs. immediate hypersensitivity, and mitogenic responses. (Spring, alternate years)

320. Paleontology (4) (Prereq: BIOL 111-112 or consent of instructor)
This course provides an in-depth introduction to the principles of paleontology. Lecture topics include models in paleontology, taphonomy, systematics and classification, morphology, paleoecology, evolution and extinction, paleobiogeography, biostratigraphy, milestone in the history of life, diversity of Phanerozoic Life, and use of index fossils in rock correlation. Laboratory exercises include fossil preservation, diversity of ancient life, ontogenetic variation, morphologic parameters and their uses, species recognition and evolution, microfossils, evolutionary patterns, and biostratigraphy as well as a survey of the major groups of fossil organisms. (Fall)

334. Genetics (4) (3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 111-112, CHEM 101-102, 101L-102L/112L or consent of instructor)
A survey of mechanisms and theories of heredity and variation with examples from a group of plants and animals, including humans. The nature of the gene and its expressions are stressed in study of principles of Mendelian inheritance, linkage, mutation, development, molecular genetics, behavior, and population genetics. Lab work includes techniques and analysis of studies in experimental crosses, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics, including protein and DNA electrophoresis. (Spring)

335. Human Genetics (3) (Prereq: BIOL 334 or consent of the instructor)
The course examines the “molecular revolution“ in human genetics. Classical and non-classical genetic concepts will be discussed in light of new molecular methodology that has become available over the last two decades. The course will emphasize molecular genetics as it is used to understand human biology by the isolation and characterization of human genes. Information gained from studies of genetic disease will be used to illustrate the interrelationship between various sub-disciplines in the biological sciences. (Fall)

398. Honors Research (3-6). See page 44 in Book of Majors.
Available for students during the junior and senior years with approval of the departmental faculty. Students with a 3.20 GPA in all courses and a 3.40 GPA in major courses may undertake an honors research program. Oral and written presentations of the results of the project will be required. Students who successfully complete the departmental honors research program will graduate with honors in the major discipline. (Fall or Spring, or Fall and Spring)

399. Junior Seminar (1) (Required of all junior majors)
A course designed to familiarize the student with the library resources and techniques for conducting a literature search of a scientific topic. Students will receive instruction on the style and mechanics of writing a scientific review article and presenting a short seminar. (Spring)

401. Senior Seminar (2) (Required of all senior majors; prereq: BIOL 399 or consent of instructor)
Each student gains an in-depth knowledge of a selected current topic in biology by conducting an exhaustive search of the literature, giving an oral presentation of the results of this research, and preparing a written paper in acceptable scientific form. Instructions in each phase of study or presentation are given by the biology faculty. Majors will take the Graduate Record Advanced test in biology as part of this course. (Fall and Spring)

442. Directed Studies. See page 36 in Book of Majors.

444. Internships. See page 37 in Book of Majors.
All internships in biology are graded pass/fail and up to 3 hours may count toward the major.

446. Readings. See page 37 in Book of Majors.

448. Research in Biology (1 to 6) (Open to junior or senior biology major with GPA of 2.5 or better with permission)
Independent research in one of several areas utilizing different approaches--a lab study on-campus or off-campus studies at a biological field station or marine science lab. Students may take three-six hours during one or two semesters. Research hours cannot be terminal hours for the major.

450. Seminar. See page 37 in Book of Majors.

452. Special Projects (1-6). See page 37 in Book of Majors. (Open to students with at least 28 hours credit with 2.25 GPA with permission of department and dean)
Special course projects on demand to include predominantly off-campus offerings that will necessitate students being away from campus part of time -- may be graded on regular basis.

458. Special Topics (1-6). See page 37 in Book of Majors.
May include field studies during the May term to give students an opportunity to study plants and animals in a variety of different habitats: overseas and local field studies; terrestrial and marine environmental study on islands such as Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Galapagos of Ecuador, etc.; fish and wildlife refuges in the eastern U. S.; or paleobiological and ecological studies of the Great Plains and the desert Southwest.

Marine Studies
In today's competitive world, students seek education not only for self-enrichment, but also for career enhancement. Marine studies can fulfill both needs. The Department of Biology offers courses in marine science, invertebrate zoology, vertebrate zoology and ecology. These courses allow the students to have hands on experiences during field trips to the coast of South Carolina, North Carolina, and the Florida Keys. The Department of Biology offers the student marine biology experiences in such diverse habitats as the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Galapagos Islands located 600 miles off the West Coast of South America.

The Department of Biology also has affiliations with the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory at Ocean Springs, Mississippi, and Duke University at Beaufort, North Carolina. Both of these institutions are well recognized marine facilities. Students may enroll in any of the 33 marine courses offered at these labs for full academic credit at Presbyterian College. Duke has a full-year academic program whereas the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory is primarily a summer program.

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