Biology

Course Descriptions

BIOL 1002
DISCOVERING SCIENCE
This course integrates Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science for non-science majors. Fundamental concepts from each discipline are addressed through lectures and readings, while weekly laboratory activities and discussion groups reinforce the experimental and logical basis of science. A primary goal is to relate scientific knowledge to societal issues.
Prerequisites: Compass Reading score of 71 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 20 or higher, or
instructor permission.
Corequisite Lab required

BIOL 1003
Current Issues in Biology
This course will focus on current issues in biology.  Each issue will be dealt with in depth in lecture, laboratory and discussion format.  Fundmental principles of biology will be demonstrated and discussed where they fit into the issue at hand.  Principles such as cellular structure and function, natural selection and evolution, genetics, the exponential nature of population growth, co-existence among populations with communities, DNA structure and function, and applications of DNA technology will be considered.  The course will also address the process of science and the connections between science and society.  Credit may not be received for both BIOL 1003 and BIOL 1010.
Prerequisite: None

BIOL 1009
CRITICAL SCIENCE SKILS
This course is intended to develop the logical skills necessary for success in the Natural Sciences. Key concepts may include: reading a science article, writing as a scientist, scientific math and statistics skills (including computation, units conversion, concepts of probability and statistical significance, and significant digits), science study skills, the language of science, lab equipment and safety skills, lab note-taking and reading and following directions.
Prerequisite: None

BIOL 1010
General Biology
A survey of the basic principles of biology. Units are included in cell biology, metabolism, cell division, genetics, ecology, and evolution. Credit may not be received for both BIOL 1010 and BIOL 1003.
Prerequisite: BIOL 1009 or CHEM 1009 (C or better), or 21 ACT Science score; or 1500 SAT score; or COMPASS algebra score of 45 or higher and COMPASS reading score of 71 or higher; and COMPASS English score of 40 or higher.
Corequisite Lab required

 BIOL 1210
Wyoming Flora
This course is designed for anyone interested in learning about the plants of Wyoming. Lecture focuses on basics of plant biology and taxonomy; lab focuses on developing skills required for identification of plants. Lecture topics also include using native plants for xeriscaping and medicinal and edible wild plants. Includes mandatory field trips.
Prerequisite: None

BIOL 1220
Birding
This course is designed for anyone interested in learning something about the birds that nest in and migrate through Wyoming and adjacent states. The class consists of both lecture and lab. Lecture topics include binoculars and spotting scopes, and conservation biology and concerns about birds. Lab involves both identification of birds in the lab and mandatory field trips.
Prerequisite: None

BIOL 1390
Introduction to Science Research I
This course provides the student with an introduction to concepts utilized in a biological research environment. Students will read scientific literature, perform computer-based literature searches, experimental design and data collection, statistical analyses, and write a scientific paper. In addition, if the quality of the research project is adequate, students may have the opportunity to present their work at a scientific conference.
Prerequisite: Instructor Permission
Corequisite Lab required

BIOL 2010
Human Anatomy & Physiology I
This course provides the student with the basic knowledge in anatomy and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the relationship between body structure and function. This course will cover homeostasis and tissues, as well as skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1010
Corequisite Lab required

BIOL 2015
Human Anatomy & Physiology II
This course provides the student with the basic knowledge in anatomy and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the relationship between body structure and function. This course will cover the endocrine system, blood, circulatory system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, renal system, and reproductive system.
Prerequisites: BIOL 2010 must precede 2015, or instructor permission
Corequisite Lab required

BIOL 2022
Animal Biology
Animal Biology is an integrative courses that addresses the evolution, anatomy, physiology, behavior and ecology of animals.  The course surveys major animal phyla and is intended for students majoring in life sciences.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1010
Corequisite Lab required

BIOL 2023
Plant & Fungal Biology
This course builds upon central themes in biology presented in BIOL 1010, including cell and molecular biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology.  These themes will be presented in an integrated fashion, but will focus on the structure, function and biology of plants and fungi.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1010
Corequisite Lab required

BIOL 2080
Psychobiology
This is a one semester course that serves as an introduction to the biological bases of behavior. It includes ethnology and comparative behavior, psychobiological development, physiological and sensory mechanisms of behavior, and evolution and behavioral genetics. It presents basic structural and functional properties of the nervous system. This course fulfills WWCC Lab Science requirement. Cross lists with PSYC 2080
Prerequisites: 4 hours of Biology and Psychology
Corequisite Lab required

BIOL 2310
Field Science Research
This course emphasizes outdoor field research projects, utilizing field data collection techniques, associated scientific concepts, literature research, and interaction with regional scientific professionals. Projects span biological, physical and service to community topics. The majority of final reports are presented in digital multimedia format.
Prerequisite: None

BIOL 2390
Introduction to Research II
This course is a continuation of Introduction to Science Research I. It allows motivated students to continue to perform scientific research, at a higher level than Science Research I. Students in Science Research II will be in class with Science Research I students, but will be expected to be more self-sufficient in all aspects of research (for example, designing experiments, collecting data, analyzing results, and writing scientific literature). Students are also expected to provide leadership for a small group of Science Research I students, being a "project leader" for an experiment.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1390 and Instructor Permission

BIOL 2400 (32-240)
General Ecology
This course is an introduction to ecological thought and principles. The course considers man’s influence on nature as well as nature’s influence on man.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1010

BIOL 2410
Introduction to Field Ecology
This course introduces methods used in plant and animal ecology. The focus of the course is on learning methods and techniques used by ecologists in the lab and field. Another focus of the course is learning to prepare scientific manuscripts that result from the data collected in the courses.
Offered in spring semester of even years.
Prerequisites: BIOL 2400 (may be enrolled concurrently) or Instructor Permission

MOLB 2210 (32-221) (BIOL 2210)
General Microbiology
A study of the structure, classification, physiology and distribution of micro-organisms, with emphasis on their technological and medical significance. Organisms studies include protozoa, algae, fungi, bacteria, rickettsia and viruses.
Prerequisite: BIOL 1010 (C or better)
Corequisite Lab required