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Contact Info

P.O. Box 32027
572 Rivers Street
Boone, NC
28608-2027
(828) 262-3025
FAX: (828) 262-2127

Chairperson:
Dr. Steven Seagle
seaglesw@appstate.edu

 

Undergraduate Course Index


BIO 1101. Introduction to Life Sciences I
BIO 1102. Introduction to LIfe Sciences II
BIO 1110. Concepts of Biology
BIO 2000. Introduction to Botany
BIO 2001. Introduction to Zoology
BIO 2500. Independent Study
BIO 2800. Biotechnology and Society
BIO 3301. Animal Physiology
BIO 3302. Ecology
BIO 3304. Systematic Botany
BIO 3306. Genetics
BIO 3307. Genetics Laboratory
BIO 3308. Bacteriology
BIO 3309. Developmental Biology
BIO 3310. Marine Biology
BIO 3312. Environmental Studies
BIO 3314. Comparative Vertebrate Zoology
BIO 3318. Outdoor Recreation: An Ecological and Behavioral Approac
BIO 3436. Introduction to Evolutionary Biology
BIO 3500. Independent Study
BIO 3520. Instructional Assistance
BIO 3530-3549. Selected Topics
BIO 3800. Molecular Biology
BIO 4550. Nature Study
BIO 4551. Ornithology
BIO 4552. Entomology
BIO 4555. Plant Physiology
BIO 4556. Mycology
BIO 4557. Ichthyology
BIO 4558. Taxonomy of Fleshy Fungi
BIO 4559. Mammalogy
BIO 4560. Herpetology
BIO 4563. Biology of Aging
BIO 4564. Microscopy
BIO 4567. Lichenology
BIO 4568. Immunology
BIO 4569. Invertebrate Zoology
BIO 4570. Parasitology
BIO 4571. Plant-Insect Interactions in Terrestrial Ecosystems
BIO 4580. Field Biology of Continental U.S.A.
BIO 4601. Animal Behavior-Ethology
BIO 4900. Internships in Biology/(1-6)
GSP 1010. Contemporary Physics
GSA 1010. Contemporary Astronomy
GSC 1020. Contemporary Chemistry
GSG 1030. Contemporary Geology
GSB 1040. Contemporary Biology
GS 3500. Independent Study
GS 3530-3549. Selected Topics
GS 4401. Science and Science Teaching in the Elementary School
GS 4403. Teaching Science in Middle and High Schools

Undergraduate Course Descriptions

BIO 1101. Introduction to Life Sciences I/(4). F;S.
First course in a two semester sequence. An examination of the principles of life with a focus on the chemistry of living organisms, cell structure and function, genetics, and evolutionary processes. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours. (NUMERICAL DATA) (CORE: NATURAL SCIENCES) (ND Prerequisite: Passing the math placement test or successful completion of MAT 0010).

BIO 1102. Introduction to Life Sciences II/(4). F;S.
Second course in a two semester sequence. An examination of the origins of life, the diversity of living organisms, ecological principles, and plant and animal structure and function. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours.(NUMERICAL DATA) (CORE: NATURAL SCIENCES) Prerequisite: BIO 1101 or BIO 1110.

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STUDENTS WHO COMPLETE BIO 1101 AND BIO 1102 WITH A GRADE OF C OR BETTER IN EACH COURSE MAY SUBSTITUTE THIS SERIES FOR BIO 1110.
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BIO 1110. Concepts of Biology/(4).F;S.
Important concepts of modern biological science. Designed for Science majors. First course for biology majors. Prerequisite: one year of high school biology. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

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UNLESS NOTED, BIO 1110 IS PREREQUISITE FOR ALL COURSES NUMBERED 2000 AND ABOVE.
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BIO 2000. Introduction to Botany/(4).F;S.
Survey of the major topics in plant biology including physiology, morphology, ecology, evolution, aspects of plant diversity and water relations in plants. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

BIO 2001. Introduction to Zoology/(4).F;S.
Integrated and phylogenetic study of the animal kingdom. The basic biological problems facing animals will be considered in the context of morphology and evolutionary history. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hour s.

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ALL BIOLOGY MAJORS MUST COMPLETE BIO 1110, BIO 2000, AND BIO 2001 BEFORE TAKING ANY OTHER BIOLOGY COURSE FOR THE MAJOR.
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BIO 2500. Independent Study/(1-4).F;S.

BIO 2800. Biotechnology and Society/(3).S.(Alternate years).
A look at how the recent advances in biotechnology affect society and individuals. Special emphasis is placed on the possibilities that biotechnology brings and the decisions it forces on society. Topics include reproductive technology, population problems, extending life, considerations of the ever-changing definition of death, genetic testing and screening, ecological problems, and others as new technological advances develop. Prerequisite: at least one course in biology, sociology, or ethics.

BIO 3301. Animal Physiology/(4).F;S.
A study of the fundamental principles of animal physiology with an emphasis on function. Prerequisite: BIO 2001 and one semester of organic chemistry. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

BIO 3302. Ecology/(4).F.
A study of the interactions of organisms with their environment. Principles discussed will include: natural selection and adaptation; population growth and regulation; interspecific interactions, including competition, predation, parasite-host relationships and mutualism; the structure and function of communities and ecosystems, and; human impacts on the biosphere. Prerequisites: BIO 2000 and 2001 or permission of the instructor. STT 3810 recommended. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

BIO 3304. Systematic Botany/(3).F;S.
The general principles of the taxonomy of the vascular plants utilizing elements of the local flora as laboratory material in the consideration of identification, nomenclature, classification, and evolutionary mechanism. Prerequisite: BIO 2000. Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours.

BIO 3306. Genetics/(3).F;S.
This course will cover aspects of transmission genetics, cytogenetics, molecular genetics and the importance of genetics to an understanding of evolution and population dynamics. The genetics of viruses, prokaryotes, and eukaryotes will be studied. Prerequisites: BIO 2000 and 2001. Prerequisite or corequisite: CHE 2201. Lecture three hours.

BIO 3307. Genetics Laboratory/(1).S.
Laboratory investigations of genetic systems in plants and animals. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIO 3306. Laboratory three hours.

BIO 3308. Bacteriology/(4).F;S.
Introduction to microbiology with emphasis on bacteriology, virology and immunology. Surveys the field of microbiology and related techniques with special attention given to host-pathogen relationships and diagnostics. Laboratory exercises are correlated with lecture topics. Prerequisites: CHE 1101-1102. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

BIO 3309. Developmental Biology/(4).S .
A study of the fundamental patterns and principles of animal growth and development at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. The laboratory will examine the development of selected invertebrates and vertebrates and will include experimental manipulations of developing systems. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours .

BIO 3310. Marine Biology/(3).F.(Alternate years).
Introduction to the more common marine organisms, including morphology, physiology, taxonomy, ecology, and economic aspects. Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours.

BIO 3312. Environmental Studies/(3).S.
An in-depth study of environmental problems from a systems/ecological perspective, with emphasis on the scientific basis of the problems and possible solutions. Topics to be covered include population growth; mineral, water and wildlife resources; energy resources; waste and pollution. Lecture three hours.

BIO 3314. Comparative Vertebrate Zoology/(4).S.
The origin, evolution, anatomy, physiology, taxonomy, and natural history of the vertebrates. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

*BIO 3318. Outdoor Recreation: An Ecological and Behavioral Approach/(2).S.
This course is designed to teach the recreation manager how to better understand the complex interactions between the recreation resource and the human user. Recreation is described and studied as need-fulfilling behavior which can be enhanced by an understanding of the biological entities (flora and fauna) and their ecological relationship.

BIO 3436. Introduction to Evolutionary Biology/(3).S.
An introduction to the study of evolution including a summary of the stratigraphic record, an historical summary of the earth and its major floral and faunal groups, a review of major contributions to evolutionary theory, and a summary of the factors thought to cause evolutionary change. Lecture three hours.

BIO 3500. Independent Study/(1-4).F;S.

BIO 3520. Instructional Assistance/(1).F;S.

A supervised experience in the instructional process on the university level through direct participation in a classroom situation. Grading will be on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis only. Prerequisite: junior or senior standing. May be repeated for a total credit of three semester hours. Required of the biology students seeking the B.S. degree and teacher certification in science education.

BIO 3530-3549. Selected Topics/(1-4).On Demand.

BIO 3800. Molecular Biology/(4).F;S.
A study of the basic molecular processes and critical recombinant DNA technologies. This includes: structure and general features of the biological information molecules DNA, RNA and proteins; DNA replication and repair processes; RNA synthesis and processing; protein synthesis and regulations; and basic recombinant DNA technology. The laboratory will include: DNA isolation techniques; restriction analysis; construction of a recombinant DNA molecule and transformation of a bacterial system; DNA-DNA hybridization; in vitro translation and gel analysis of a protein; DNA amplification using PCR; and DNA sequencing and analysis. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours. Prerequisite: one semester of organic chemistry.

*BIO 4550. Nature Study/(3).SS.
Study of common plants and animals with emphasis on ecology, collecting techniques and identification. Designed for students with limited biology backgrounds. Not open to biology majors for credit.

BIO 4551. Ornithology/(3).S.
The morphology, physiology, behavior, ecology and identification of birds. Early morning field trips are required. Extended field trips to a variety of habitats will be arranged. Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours.

BIO 4552. Entomology/(3).F;S.
A comparative study of the insects and related arthropods with an emphasis on morphology and systematics. Methods of collection and preservation are covered. Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours.

BIO 4555. Plant Physiology/(4).F.
A study of the basic principles of plant physiology and fundamental processes such as cell properties, water relations, growth, photosynthesis, respiration, and mineral nutrition. Prerequisites: CHE 1101-1102. CHE 2201 is strongly recommended. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

BIO 4556. Mycology/(4).F.
An investigation of the fungi with particular reference to the techniques of working with these organisms. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

BIO 4557. Ichthyology/(3).F.(Alternating with BIO 5508).
Ecology, distribution, taxonomy and economic importance of fishes. Freshwater fishes will be emphasized. Lecture two hours, lab two hours.

BIO 4558. Taxonomy of the Fleshy Fungi/(3).F.
An in-depth study of the fleshy fungi (mushrooms [agarics], chanterelles, hydnums, polypores, and corals) with an emphasis on morphology, systematics, and ecology. Methods of collection, macroscopic and microscopic dissection, identification, and preservation are covered. Field trips are required. Lecture two hours, and laboratory three hours.

BIO 4559. Mammalogy/(3).F.(Alternate years with BIO 4560).
The natural history, distribution, adaptations, taxonomy and economic importance of mammals. Field trips and visits to zoos will be arranged. Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours.

BIO 4560. Herpetology/(3).S.(Alternates with BIO 4559).
The morphology, taxonomy, physiology, and distribution of amphibians and reptiles. Methods of collecting and preserving specimens as well as behavioral aspects of species in their natural habitats will be covered. Field trips will be required. Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours.

BIO 4563. Biology of Aging/(3).F.
General study of biological/physiological changes over time in the structure and function of the systems of organisms with emphasis on the human body. Prerequisite: BIO 1101-1102 or equivalent. Lecture three hours.

BIO 4564. Microscopy/(4).F.
A study of the principles and techniques of biological microscopy. Lectures include discussions on preparative techniques for various types of bioimaging, the optical theories behind the imaging technologies, and the structure and function of cellular organelles. Laboratories examine practical techniques of tissue preparation for various kinds of microscopy, the effective use of various types of microscopes, and the interpretation of data obtained from various imaging systems. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

BIO 4567. Lichenology/(3).S.
A study of the morphology, diversity, evolution, ecology, physiology, and chemistry of lichens as well as their significance as biological indicators. Field trips are required. Lecture two hours, and laboratory three hours.

BIO 4568. Immunology/(4).S.
A study of the immune system with emphasis on cellular interactions involved in the generation of humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Lecture includes discussions on inflammation, antibody diversity, tissue transplantation, and immunopathologies. Laboratories examine lymphoid tissue organization, lymphocyte function, and antibody-antigen reactions with emphasis on clinical application. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIO 3306. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours.

BIO 4569. Invertebrate Zoology/(4). F.
Students will be introduced to the 34 extant major and minor invertebrate phyla which make up 99% of the Earth's named animal species and virtually 100% of those animals yet undiscovered. The intriguing natural history, symmetry and development, mode of locomotion, nutrition, reproduction, and primary environments of the invertebrates will be discussed. Labs will emphasize invertebrate habitats, field collection, phylogenetic relationships as well as ecological and physiological adaptations and examination of major morphological characteristics. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours with required field trips.

BIO 4570. Parasitology/(3).F.
A survey of protozoan, helminthic and arthropod parasites with emphasis on causation and prevention of disease. Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours.

BIO 4571. Plant-Insect Interactions in Terrestrial Ecosystems/(4).F. (Alternate Years).
A study of the associations between insects and plants using lecture, class discussions and laboratory exercises. Lecture topics include constraints imposed by plants on herbivorous insects and the strategies insects use to overcome them, pollination biology and ecology and the interplay between biotic and abiotic factors in determining interactions. Laboratory exercises are field-based mini-experiments leading to the development of an individual project with experimentation and paper presentation. Lecture three hours, laboraory three hours.

BIO 4580. Field Biology of Continental U.S.A./(5).SS.
Ecological investigations of major habitats in the U.S. Prerequisites: 16 hours in biology and consent of the instructor.

BIO 4601. Animal Behavior-Ethology/(3).S.(Alternate years).
Basic principles of animal behavior are approached from an evolutionary perspective. Topics such as instinct, learning, biological clocks, sociobiology, communication and physiological mechanisms of behavior are stressed. Laboratory emphasizes techniques of observing, recording, and analyzing behavior using a research project format. Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours.

BIO 4900. Internships in Biology/(1-6).F;S.
Practical biological experiences in federal, state, and local agencies. Graded on an S/U basis .

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GENERAL SCIENCE (GS)


GSP 1010. Contemporary Physics/(2).F;S.
A course in a series of four science mini-courses for the non-science major. (EACH MINI-COURSE LASTS FOR ONE-HALF SEMESTER. STUDENTS SHOULD BE ADVISED TO REGISTER FOR TWO MINI-COURSES IN ONE SEMESTER TO TOTAL FOUR SEMESTER HOURS.) The course presents a broad view of important areas of contemporary physics. Concepts of modern physics are studied at an introductory level with the necessary classical physics background needed for their comprehension. Co- or prerequisite: a college-level mathematics course. Corequisite: GSC 1020. Contemporary Chemistry. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours. This course will not satisfy program requirements for students majoring in biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, or physics. (NUMERICAL DATA) (CORE: NATURAL SCIENCES)

GSA 1010. Contemporary Astronomy/(2).F;S.
A course in a series of four science mini-courses for the non-science major. (EACH MINI-COURSE LASTS FOR ONE-HALF SEMESTER. STUDENTS SHOULD BE ADVISED TO REGISTER FOR TWO MINI-COURSES IN ONE SEMESTER TO TOTAL FOUR SEMESTER HOURS.) The course presents a view of how modern astronomers study the universe. The concepts and techniques of modern astronomy are studied at an introductory level with the necessary physics background needed for their comprehension. Co- or prerequisite: a college-level mathematics course. Corequisite: GSC 1020. Contemporary Chemistry. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours. This course will not satisfy program requirements for students majoring in biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, or physics. (NUMERICAL DATA) (CORE: NATURAL SCIENCES)

GSC 1020. Contemporary Chemistry/(2).F;S.
A course in a sequential series of four science mini-courses. (EACH MINI-COURSE LASTS FOR ONE-HALF SEMESTER. STUDENTS SHOULD BE ADVISED TO REGISTER FOR TWO MINI-COURSES IN ONE SEMESTER TO TOTAL FOUR SEMESTER HOURS.) The course will introduce students to selected fundamental principles and concepts of chemistry discussed and developed in the context of science topics of concern or interest in modern society. Co- or prerequisite: college-level mathematics course. Corequisite: GSC 1010. Contemporary Physics or GSA 1010. Contemporary Astronomy. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours. This course will not satisfy program requirements for students majoring in biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, or physics. (NUMERICAL DATA) (CORE: NATURAL SCIENCES)

GSG 1030. Contemporary Geology/(2).F;S .
A course in a sequential series of four science mini-courses. (EACH MINI-COURSE LASTS FOR ONE- HALF SEMESTER. STUDENTS SHOULD BE ADVISED TO REGISTER FOR TWO MINI-COURSES IN ONE SEMESTER TO TOTAL FOUR SEMESTER HOURS.) The course will introduce students to selected fundamental principles and concepts of geology discussed and developed in the context of science topics of concern or interest in modern society. Prerequisite: GSP or GSA 1010 and GSC 1020. Corequisite: GSB 1040. Contemporary Biology. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours. This course will not satisfy program requirements for students majoring in biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, or physics. (NUMERICAL DATA) (CORE: NATURAL SCIENCES)

GSB 1040. Contemporary Biology/(2).F;S.
A course in a sequential series of four science mini-courses. (EACH MINI-COURSE LASTS FOR ONE-HALF SEMESTER. STUDENTS SHOULD BE ADVISED TO REGISTER FOR TWO MINI-COURSES IN ONE SEMESTER TO TOTAL FOUR SEMESTER HOURS.) The course will introduce students to selected fundamental principles and concepts of biology discussed and developed in the context of science topics of concern or interest in modern society. Prerequisites: GSP 1010 or GSA 1010 and GSC 1020. Corequisite: GSG 1030. Contemporary Geology. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours. This course will not satisfy program requirements for students majoring in biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, or physics. (CORE: NATURAL SCIENCES)

GS 3500. Independent Study/(1-4).On Demand.

GS 3530-3549. Selected Topics/(1-4).On Demand.

GS 4401. Science and Science Teaching in the Elementary School/(3).F;S.
A survey of scientific principles, concepts and national curricula taught in elementary schools. Emphasis is placed on the development of materials, demonstrations and "hands on" experiments appropriate for integration into the total curriculum. Lecture one hour, laboratory two hours.

GS 4403. Teaching Science in Middle and High Schools/(3).F.S.
A study of the implementation techniques for the prospective middle school teacher based upon science principles mastered in the science content courses. Investigative techniques; improvising materials and an emphasis on environmental concerns will be stressed. Lecture one hour, laboratory two hours.

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