The Specifics

Major in Biology

 

In addition to General Biology (Bio 101-101L and 102-102L), Summer Readings (Bio 198-199), Genetics (Bio 334), Library Research Methods (Bio 399), and Senior Seminar (Bio 401), all majors must complete 24 hours in biology. The 24 hours must include at least one course from each of the following areas, plus one 3-4 hr. elective chosen from any courses offered by the department (excluding internships), for a total of 39-40 hours.

• Organismal: Invertebrate Zoology 201, Vertebrate Zoology 202, Parasitology 208, or Microbiology 306.
• Cell/Molecular: Cell Biology 209, Biochemistry I 307(L), Biochemistry II 308(L), or Immunology 318
• Evolution/Ecology: Biogeography 207, Evolution 212, or Ecology 314.
• Plant Biology: Introductory Botany 203, Plant Taxonomy 206, or Plant Physiology 312.
• Function/Structure: Comparative Anatomy 302, Human Anatomy 303, Developmental Bio 304, or Physiology 311.

Biology Majors must also complete the following related courses:

• General Chemistry (Chem 101-101(L), 102-102(L); Organic Chemistry (Chem 221-221L).
• General Physics (Phys 121-121L, 122-122L); and either Calculus (Math 201 or 211).
• Research Statistics (Psyc 320); or Introduction to Microcomputers (CSC 201).
• The second semester of Organic Chemistry (Chem 222-222L) is strongly advised for preprofessional and pre-graduate school students.

Students in Biology/Secondary Education are required to take the following courses:

• General Biology (Bio 101-101L and 102-102L)
• Summer Readings (Bio 198-199)
• Library Research Methods (Bio 399)
• Senior Seminar (Bio 401)
• Invertebrate Biology 201or Vertebrate Biology 202
• Introduction to Botany 203
• Cell Biology 209
• Comparative Anatomy 302 or Developmental Biology 304 or Physiology 311
• Ecology 314
• Genetics 334
• Electives totaling 4 hours.

Students must also complete the following related courses:

• General Chemistry (Chem 101-101L, 102-102L)
• Organic Chemistry (Chem 221-221L)
• Introduction to Microcomputers (CSC 201)
• Earth Science (Phys 211)
• General Physics (Phys 121-121L, 122-122L) or Description Physics (Phys 205).

Requirements for Certification to Teach High School Biology
A student who wants to be certified to teach biology in the high school setting must meet the following requirements for the major in biology: BIOL 111-111L, 112-112L, 198-199, 201 or 202, 203, 209, 302 or 304 or 311, 314, 335, 399, 401, and electives totaling 4 hours. Students must also complete the following related courses: CHEM
101-101L, 102-102L, 221-221L; PHYS 121-121L or 122-122L; and PHYS 211. Students should complete all other courses required for teacher certification and meet the criteria for acceptance into the Teacher Education Program.

 

Course Descriptions

Biology (BIOL)

101. General Biology I (3)
(Coreq: BIOL 101L) A broad introduction to fundamental principles of living organisms with four major areas studied: biomolecules, cell biology, genetics, and development. Students cannot receive credit for BIOL 101 if they have taken BIOL 111.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

201. Invertebrate Zoology (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor) Studies of the principal phyla of the invertebrates emphasizing their increasing complexity of structure, physiology, ecology and evolutionary relationships.

202. Vertebrate Zoology (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor) 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. (Alternate years)

203. Introductory Botany (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor) Intensive review of phyla of plant kingdom. Morphology, physiology, reproduction, ecology and principles of classification studied in each group.

206. Taxonomy of Native and Economic Plants (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor) 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. (Alternate years)

207. Biogeography (4)
(Prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with 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.

208. Parasitology (4)
(Prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor) This course provides an in-depth study of parasitic organisms during both lecture and lab. Lecture topics will focus on parasite/host interactions, disease physiology, and current treatments. Lab exercises will introduce students to parasite morphology and histological examination of infected tissue.

209. Cell Biology (4)
(Prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; CHEM 102) A study of the structure and function of the eucharistic 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.

212. Evolution (4)
(3 hrs lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with 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.

215. Environmental Science (3)
(Prereq: BIOL 102, BIOL 112, CHEM 102, or PHYS 122) 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. (Alternate years)

215L. Environmental Science Lab (1)
(Prereq: BIOL 102, BIOL 112, CHEM 102, or PHYS 122) 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. (Alternate years)

216. Introduction to Marine Biology and Oceanography (4)
(Prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor) 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.

258. Special Topics (1-6). See page 29.

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

303. Human Anatomy and Embryology (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; 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. (Alternate years)

304. Developmental Biology (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with 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.

306. Microbiology (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; CHEM 102) 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.

307. Biochemistry I (3)
(Prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; CHEM 221 and 221L; CHEM 222 is strongly recommended; crosslisted with CHEM 307) 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.

307L. Biochemistry I Lab (1)
(One 3-hr lab weekly; prereq/coreq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; BIOL/CHEM 307; CHEM 221 and 221L; CHEM 222 is strongly recommended; crosslisted with CHEM 307L) 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.

308-308L. Biochemistry II (4)
(3 hrs lecture, one 3-hr lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; CHEM 221 and 221L; crosslisted with CHEM 308-308L) 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. (Alternate years)

310. Histology (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL101-102) 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. (Alternate years)

311. Physiology (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; CHEM 102; 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.

312. Plant Physiology (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; CHEM 102; 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 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor) 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. (Alternate years)

318. Immunology (4)
(Prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor) 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, and mitogenic responses. (Alternate years)

320. Paleontology (4)
(Prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with 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.

334. Genetics (4)
(3 hrs lecture, 3 hrs lab weekly; prereq: BIOL 112 or BIOL 102 with consent of instructor; CHEM 102) 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.

335. Human Genetics (3)
(Prereq: BIOL 334 or consent of the instructor) The course is designed to introduce students who are interested in future healthcare professions to the specific effects of genetic variation on human biology primarily in settings where clinical problems arise due to mutation. Basic genetics is prerequisite to this course. It is the intent of the course to increase both personal and professional awareness of the role and impact of genetics in healthcare. The course will review basic genetic principles; present the molecular aspects of genetic mutations; discuss classic and non-traditional inheritance; the significance of family history and pedigree analysis; genetic testing; and the ethical, legal, and social implications of the science. Emphasis is on what, why, and how to use genetic information in the healthcare professions.

398. Honors Research (3-6) See page 25.

399. Scientific Writing & Presentation (2)
(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.

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.

442. Directed Studies.

444. Internships.
All internships in biology are graded pass/fail and up to 3 hours may count toward the major.

446. Readings.

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.

452. Special Projects (1-6).
(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).
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 coasts of South Carolina, North Carolina, and the Florida Keys. The Department of Biology offers 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; Duke University Marine Lab in Beaufort, North Carolina; and the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences. Students may enroll in any of the 33 marine courses offered at these labs for full academic credit at Presbyterian College. During summer sessions, students have opportunities to conduct independent studies, engage in research, or undertake special projects at these facilities. Presbyterian College also offers a minor in Marine Studies. Courses taken at these marine stations, as well as courses offered at several international marine laboratories, can be applied towards that minor.

 

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