Schmid College of Science

Menas Kafatos, Ph.D., Dean

Janeen Hill, Ph.D., Associate Dean

The Schmid College of Science prepares students for the complex world of the 21st Century. The College of Science offers degrees and programs designed for students who aspire to become tomorrow's scientists or health care providers or who intend to work in fields related to science and technology. The College of Science provides students with opportunities to engage in faculty-mentored research, to work with local businesses and agencies as student interns, and to become involved in community outreach through clubs and volunteer work. The College of Science invites you to join our dynamic community of faculty scholar-teachers and graduate and undergraduate students.

Department of Biological Sciences

Frank Frisch, Ph.D., Chair

Professors: Carson, Frisch, Hill, Sumida;

Associate Professors: Brownell, Piper, Wright;

Assistant Professors: Funk, Keller, Rowland-Goldsmith.

Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

The department of biological sciences prepares students to pursue the diverse areas of biology and supporting sciences. Students may pursue a bachelor of science in biological sciences, a major designed for students interested in careers in the health professions (medicine, physical therapy, dentistry, pharmacy, occupational therapy, podiatry, optometry), biotechnology, veterinary medicine, environmental biology, or marine biology.

Departmental Honors

Department honors is conferred upon graduates who have a cumulative GPA of 3.500 or higher and who have completed independent research. Completion of research includes the submission of a scientific manuscript to the biological sciences faculty, the oral presentation of that research to the faculty, and a vote by the biological sciences faculty that the research, paper and presentation were of sufficient quality to merit honors.

Pre–Medical, Dental, Veterinary, Physical Therapy

Students interested in pre–professional studies need to work closely with an advisor to meet admission requirements at the professional school of choice. The pre–medical, pre–dental and pre–veterinary advisor for all Chapman University undergraduate students is Dr. Virginia Carson. The pre–physical therapy advisors are Dr. Janeen Hill and Dr. Ken Sumida.

Biology Major and the General Education Program

The department recommends students select a minor to fulfill the multi-interdisciplinary component of the general education program. Minors that complement the biology degree include chemistry, computer science, environmental science, mathematics, philosophy, or physics.

Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

Students must complete 69 credits plus a capstone requirement.

biology core (12 credits)

science core (33 credits)

biology electives (24 credits)

Students select 24 credits of biological sciences electives. 16 credits must be lecture/lab combinations. 20 credits must be upper-division (300 or above).

Capstone Requirement

Students are required to complete a capstone project before graduation. Students cannot graduate until the capstone project has been successfully completed, and the department chair has notified the Registrar that the capstone requirement has been fulfilled. This requirement shall be fulfilled by completing one of the listed options.

Option 1: Successful completion of undergraduate research experience funded by National Science Foundation, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, or other national research agency that sponsors undergraduate research. The research experience must be at least 8 weeks long, require full-time work in a laboratory setting, and lead to the completion of a well-defined research project. A student selecting this option will submit a formal research paper modeled after a formal lab report to the academic advisor by March 31 of the senior year and present this research in poster format at the undergraduate research day.

Option 2: Successful completion of a pre-approved research internship that results in the completion of a research project. The student must register for 4 credits of BIOL 490 and work with a faculty member and research supervisor to identify the student's research project. A student selecting this option will submit a formal research paper modeled after a formal lab report to the faculty internship supervisor by April 10 of the senior year and present this research in poster format at the undergraduate research day.

Option 3: Successful completion of a significant review of the literature. The student must register for 2 credits Reading and Conference in the fall semester senior year to begin work on this project. The student shall expect to invest considerable time and effort researching and writing this review, which will be 30 to 40 pages in length and appropriately cited. The review is due to the faculty mentor the Monday after spring break. The review will be graded. A minimum grade of B- is required for the student to complete the capstone requirement.

Option 4: Successful completion of independent research overseen by a faculty member in the sciences. The student will register for BIOL 384 or 499 for three consecutive semesters and complete a faculty-mentored student research project. The student will write a formal research paper modeled after the formal lab report and will present this research in poster format at the undergraduate research day. When appropriate, a faculty member may substitute a team research project for an individual research project. When a team project is substituted, all members of the team must write a research paper modeled after the formal lab report. The team will present this project in poster format at the undergraduate research day.

*these courses may be waived with the appropriate test scores, as noted below:

PHYS 107- minimum score of 5 on IB Physics HL waives students from this class.

MATH 110 - minimum score of 4 on AP Calculus AB or 5 on MATH HL exam waives students from this class. Minimum score of 4 on AP Calculus BC waives students from MATH 110 and 111.

MATH 111 - minimum score of 3 on AP Calculus BC exam waives students from this class. Minimum score of 4 on AP Calculus BC waives students from MATH 110 and 111.

CHEM 140/140L - minimum score of 4 on AP Chemistry or 5 on IB Chemistry HL exam waives students from this class.

MATH 203 - minimum score of 4 on AP Statistics waives students from this class.

BIOL 204/204L - minimum score of 4 on AP Biology or IB Biology HL exam waives students from this class.

CPSC 230 - minimum score of 4 on AP Computer Science waives students from this class.

**CHEM 330/330L - students who are pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-veterinary medicine will need to take CHEM 331/331L.

Minors in the Department of Biological Sciences

Minor in Human Biology

A minor in human biology is a concerned study of cells and their components at the molecular level. Students learn theoretical information and lab techniques to study cells and their processes. A minimum of 9 credits must be upper-division.

required courses (8 credits)

elective courses (10 credits)

select any combination of courses

Minor in Organismal Biology

A minor in organismal biology is a concentrated study of organisms and the relationship they form with each other and their environment. Students learn theoretical information and lab techniques to study organisms and these relationships. A minimum of 9 credits must be upper-division.

required courses (8 credits)

elective courses (12 credits)

select any combination of courses

Course Descriptions – Biology

BIOL 102 Forensics

For non-science majors. Fulfills GE Natural Science Inquiry. This course integrates biology, chemistry and physics as applied to forensics. Students will learn basic principles of science that are used in forensics investigations. They will also see how the scientific method enhances their ability to evaluate arguments surrounding forensics issues. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Students will begin to develop critical thinking skills through problem solving and reasoning exercises.
2. Students will understand the power of the scientific method as they apply it to solving forensics problems.
3. Students will understand how computational technology enhances the forensic scientist's ability to solve forensics problems through the students' use of computer technology to locate, evaluate, and synthesize forensic information.

BIOL 112 Human Physiology in Health and Disease

For non-science majors. Fulfills GE Natural Science Inquiry. This course addresses key concepts in physical and biological sciences using human physiology as the platform. Students will learn fundamental laws of science, science methodology, and sufficient science content to enhance their ability to evaluate arguments surrounding current issues related to human physiology in health and disease. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Students will understand the function of various organ systems in the human body.
2. Students will know how physiological systems are integrated.
3. Students will learn about various diseases and their impact on certain organ systems.
4. Students will apply their understanding of organ system integration to clinical conditions.

BIOL 132 Human Genetics

For non-majors only. Fulfills GE Natural Science Inquiry. Principles of genetics applied to the human population. Lecture. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

BIOL 145 Introduction to Applications in Computational Science

Computational science is an emerging field of sciences, computer science, and mathematics. This course is to provide the fundamentals of computational science, and introduce a variety of scientific applications. We will examine how scientific investigations involve computing in basic sciences such as physics, chemistry, global change, medicine and particularly biosciences. The student will be offered examples of computer simulations and data analysis. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand the definitions and know the basics of computational science.
2. Know the components of computational models in basic sciences such as biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth sciences.
3. Know the principles of modeling and simulations.
4. Know how to build simple computer models in basic sciences as well as applied science.
5. Understand importance of computer simulations.
6. Recognize that computational science play a major role in science and engineering.
7. Understand computational science as an important tool for scientific investigations.
8. Know the basics of what is involved to analyze scientific data and simulations.
9. Understand the scientific meaning of simulations.
10. Know how to interpret scientific and simulated data.
11. Use scientific data to build models.
12. Understand how to bridge computational science to basic science.

BIOL 199 Individual Study

(Offered as needed.) 1-3 credits.

BIOL 204 From Molecules to Cells: Evolution of Life on Earth (Gen Biol I)

Principles of biology as a chronology of life on earth. Course focuses on the important evolutionary breakthroughs during the history of life that survive to the present day as biological principles: replication by nucleic acids, biochemical systems, gene expression and control, mitosis, meiosis, Mendelian genetics, protist diversity. Lecture, laboratory. Fee: $75. (Offered every semester.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Identify and describe fundamental elements of science, scientific laws, and scientific processes, including inductive and deductive processes.
2. Explain, describe, and give examples of the basic principles, concepts, and theories of the natural sciences, including the central role of the scientific method and the importance of measurement.
3. Apply the reasoning skills acquired in the classroom to practical problem solving.
4. Connect the impact of science and technology on national or global issues.
5. Use the scientific method to evaluate and analyze data and draw conclusions based upon that analysis.
6. Distinguish the limitations of science and differentiate between true scientific versus pseudoscientific claims.
7. Identify and describe fundamental elements of science, scientific laws, and scientific processes, including inductive and deductive processes.
8. Explain, describe, and give examples of the basic principles, concepts, and theories of the natural sciences, including the central role of the scientific method and the importance of measurement.
9. Develop testable hypotheses based upon observation and existing information.
10. Conduct experiments and compile data.
11. Assess data, deduce meaning, and draw conclusions.
12. Evaluate science-related issues and evaluate the merits of their arguments.
13. Appraise the aesthetic and intellectual aspects of science and assess the civic implications of science.
14. Evaluate a hypothesis in the light of data obtained.
15. Evaluate the validity of an experimental design.

BIOL 205 Evolution and Diversity of Multicellular Organisms (Gen Biol II)

Evolution of fungi, plants, and animals (invertebrates and vertebrates): Includes development, anatomy, physiology, and ecology. Lecture, laboratory. (Offered spring semester.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To instill in the student the fundamental principles underlying all biological organisms and the essential processes which maintain life in the contest of its evolutionary history through laboratory experiences and lectures.
2. The student will gain a basic knowledge of (1) the evolutionary connections of all multicellular organisms, (2) the anatomy, physiology, and ecology of multicellular organisms, with an emphasis on mammalian systems (3) the inter-connectedness within and between ecosystems on earth.
3. The student will further develop the writing skills initiated in BIOL 204 (with special emphasis on the Methods section of a research report) with an expanded understanding of statistics and experimental design.
4. The student will gain practical experience with modern systematics, invertebrate and vertebrate anatomy, plant morphology and physiology, behavior and ecology.

BIOL 207 Science of Life: Understanding Living Organisms

For non-science majors. Fulfills GE Natural Science Inquiry. This course introduces the basic principles of biology in three major components - the structure and function of living organisms, interactions of the organisms with their environment (ecology), and the ways organisms change over time (genetics and evolution). Lecture. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To understand how complex molecules led to the development of cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, organisms and ecosystems.
2. To engage the student in written analysis of scientific data.

BIOL 208 Introduction to Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology

Prerequisite, BIOL 204, or a minimum score of 4 on the AP or IB Biology exam. Principles of molecular genetics with emphasis on molecular biology of DNA, RNA, and gene expression; an overview of cellular organelles and their functions. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. The first objective of the course is to give the student a firm foundation in molecular genetics with an in-depth understanding of the molecular biology of DNA, RNA and proteins.
2. A second objective is to look at the role computational biology techniques play in understanding genetics and then to apply the understanding of genetics to various diseases.
3. Familiarity with cellular functions, energy utilization and intracellular structures is a third course objective.
4. An introduction to primary scientific literature in the area of emphasis is a final objective of the course.

BIOL 209 Introduction to Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology Laboratory

Corequisite, BIOL 208. Laboratories that use the principles of molecular genetics with emphasis on molecular biology of DNA, RNA, and gene expression; an overview of cellular organelles and their functions. Fee: $75. (Offered fall semester.) 1 credit.

Course Objectives:

1. The first objective is to give the student a firm foundation in molecular genetics with an in-depth understanding of the molecular biology of DNA, RNA, and proteins by learning molecular biology techniques.
2. The second objective is to give students an in-depth understanding of cell biology techniques such as cell fractionation and histochemistry.

BIOL 210 Human Anatomy

An introduction to the study of human structure. The human body is studied from the following multiple levels of anatomical organization: cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, and the intact organism. Emphasis is on the functional bases of anatomy. Lecture, laboratory. Fee: $75. (Offered spring semester.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. This course is designed to acquaint students with the histology and gross anatomy of the human body through lectures, diagrams, surface anatomy and dissection of cat, sheep, and human.
2. The course emphasizes how knowing basic physiological concepts is essential to understanding how the body is put together.
3. Although many structural terms must be learned, presentation and grading is largely conceptual.

BIOL 211/BIOL 211L Principles of Physiology/Principles of Physiology Lab

Prerequisite, BIOL 204. Foundational principles of physiology are presented in this introductory course. This course will explore laws and concepts governing the metabolism of organ systems along with laboratory activities that focus on specific organ systems. This course is especially appropriate for the athletic trainer, physical educator and health professional majors in that special emphasis is made on pulmonary, muscular, endocrine, neurologic, and cardiovascular systems. (Offered fall semester.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To understand physiological principles that govern our organ systems.
2. To understand the relationship, controls and communication of organ systems in the human body.
3. Gain appreciation and understanding that genetic manifestation of cell lineage can be modulated by environment, physical conditioning, and nutrient availability.

BIOL 235 Impact on Society: Biotechnology

For non-science majors only. Fulfills GE Natural Science Inquiry. A lecture/discussion course addressing numerous issues regarding how the biotechnology revolution of the past three decades has changed our lives both as individuals and as a society. Extensive consideration and discussion of ethical and social issues related to how this information is used especially relating to medical genetics. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

BIOL 278 Investigations in Special Topics in Biology

Prerequisites, BIOL 204, GPA of 3.000, consent of instructor. Under the guidance of the instructor, students will learn the requisite techniques for an on-going scientific research project related to the instructor's research area. Students will also be involved in a journal club where scientific articles related to the research topic are read and reviewed. Finally, they will assist in the preparation of the research results for presentation to scientific meetings and/or publication. With approval from the department chair this course may count towards departmental honors. May be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 1 credit.

BIOL 301 Plant Biology

Prerequisite, BIOL 205. A comprehensive survey of the major principles associated with the study of plants and fungi. This includes: biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, physiology, diversity, development, evolution, and ecology. The lab and lecture are highly integrated with the lab focusing on scientific method and experimental design. A basic working knowledge of biology will be assumed. Lecture and lab. (Offered alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Survey key principles of plant form, function, and ecology.
2. To understand plant evolution and taxonomy.
3. Introduce techniques used in studying plants at cellular to ecosystem levels.
4. To understand functional aspects of species and interactions among species.
5. To read and critically evaluate primary literature in the field of plant biology.

BIOL 319 Ecosystem Ecology

Prerequisites, BIOL 205, 224. Ecosystem ecology focuses on the flow of energy and materials through the living (e.g., plants, animals and microbes) and non-living (e.g., soils and the atmosphere) components of ecological systems. This course will explore cycles of water, energy, carbon, and nutrients in terrestrial ecosystems and how these cycles have been influenced by human activities. Lecture and lab. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To understand the history of the ecosystem concept.
2. To understand the importance of climate, geology, and soils in structuring ecosystems.
3. To understand the inputs, outputs and internal cycling of water, energy, carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in terrestrial ecosystems.
4. To understand anthropogenic alteration of global biogeochemical cycles and subsequent impacts on ecosystem processes.
5. To read and critically evaluate primary literature in the field of ecosystem ecology.

BIOL 324/324L Ecology/Ecology Lab

Prerequisite, BIOL 205. An introductory course focusing on principles of organisms' interactions with abiotic and biotic components of ecosystems. The course will include general principles of ecology and their contemporary application, as well as methods used in studying ecological interactions. A basic working knowledge of biology will be assumed. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Reinforce the student's ability to read, think, and communicate scientific information in a critical manner.
2. Survey key principles of organisms' interactions with abiotic and biotic components of ecosystems.
3. Introduce techniques used in studying plant and animal species, communities, and ecological interactions.

BIOL 329 Experimental Course

(Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

BIOL 330 Genetics

Prerequisites, BIOL 204, CHEM 330. Principles of classical and molecular genetics with emphasis on molecular biology of DNA, RNA, and gene expression. Lecture, laboratory. (Offered spring semester.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. The first objective of the course is to introduce the student to the basic principles of classical genetics especially in solving genetic problems using monohybrid and dihybrid analysis and deductive reasoning skills.
2. A second objective is to give the student a firm foundation in molecular genetics with an in-depth understanding of the molecular biology of DNA, RNA, and proteins.
3. Familiarity with mechanisms of gene expression and regulation of this process by molecular factors are a third course objective.
4. The final course objective is an introduction to developmental genetics. In keeping with departmental objectives, writing as a biologist is emphasized by having students write two formal laboratory reports.
5. This course serves as one of three breadth courses and is required of all students majoring in biology.

BIOL 333 Animal Behavior

Prerequisites, BIOL 205, 224. An introduction to animal behavior and its relationship to fields such as psychology and neurobiology. Course explores mechanistic and evolutionary approaches to understanding behavior. Students observe behavior and write formal reports. Lecture, laboratory. (Offered spring semester, alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the semester, the students should have a thorough understanding of:

1. Mechanisms that control or cause animal behavior.
2. How behavior can evolve.
3. The interaction between genes and environment that produces behavior.
4. Ways of testing hypotheses about behavior.

BIOL 337 Immunology

Prerequisite, BIOL 204. Upper-division biology students are exposed to a broad overview of immunology. Cell–mediated and humoral immunology is studied in detail along with the complement system. The course concludes with a description of the abnormalities of the immune system, immunological disease, and hypersensitivity. Lecture. (Offered spring semester, alternate years.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Identify and describe fundamental elements of the immune system and their functions.
2. Explain, describe, and give example of the basic principles, concepts, and theories of immunology, including the central role of the humoral and cellular branches of the immune system.
3. Apply the reasoning skills acquired in the classroom to practical problem solving.
4. Connect the impact of the field of immunology and related technology on national or global issues.
5. Use the scientific method to evaluate and analyze data and draw conclusions based upon that analysis.
6. Distinguish the limitations of science and differentiate between true scientific versus pseudoscientific claims.
7. Identify and describe fundamental elements of science, scientific laws, and scientific processes, including inductive and deductive processes.
8. Explain, describe, and give examples o the basic principles, concepts, and theories of the field of immunology, including the central role of clonal expansion and the importance of immunological memory.
9. Develop testable hypotheses based upon observation and existing information.
10. Assess data, deduce meaning, and draw conclusions.
11. Evaluate immunology-related issues and evaluate the merits of the arguments.
12. Appraise the aesthetic and intellectual aspects of scientific findings and assess the civic implications.
13. Evaluate a hypothesis in the light of generated data.
14. Evaluate the validity of an experimental design.

BIOL 338 Ornithology

Prerequisite, BIOL 205. The biology of birds: a survey of avian diversity, evolution, systematics, behavior, and conservation. Lecture and Lab. (Offered alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To understand what is unique about birds as animals.
2. To learn about avian diversity.
3. To understand how birds evolved from dinosaurs and the recent discoveries that shed light on the process.
4. To understand avian migration, dispersal and navigation.
5. To understand avian breeding systems and reproduction.
6. To understand the importance of birds as sentinels of environmental quality.
7. To learn to identify common local birds by sight and sound.

BIOL 355 Physiology of Drugs

Prerequisites, BIOL 102, or BIOL 204, or PSY 333. Students will learn about the pharmacological and physiological mechanisms of action of alcohol and other drugs causing physical dependency. Analytical thinking, writing, and analysis are emphasized. Lecture. (Offered spring semester, alternate years.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Upon successful completion of the course students will be able to understand basic information about how drugs, particularly alcohol, gain access to receptors in the body, affect neurotransmitters, and cause physiological responses.
2. Students will present the reasons for various treatment strategies and critique journal articles.

BIOL 365 Human Physiology Part A

Prerequisite, BIOL 204. Students learn how physiological systems function in isolation and as part of linked systems. Emphasis on cell physiology and endocrine, immune, nervous, and reproductive systems. Lecture, laboratory. (Offered fall semester.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Know how physiological systems function in isolation and as interconnected to other systems.
2. Read, synthesize, and discuss primary literature.
3. Apply knowledge of function to real problems in physiology.
4. Conduct and write about research related to physiological systems.
5. Understand role of institutional review boards in protecting welfare of human and animal subjects.

BIOL 366 Human Physiology Part B

Prerequisite, BIOL 204. Emphasis on cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, urinary, and GI systems. Lecture, laboratory. (Offered spring semester.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Know how physiological systems function in isolation and as interconnected systems.
2. Read, synthesize, and discuss primary literature.
3. Apply knowledge of function to real life problems in physiology.
4. Conduct research related to physiological systems.
5. Write about research following the Biological Sciences' guidelines for formal lab reports.
6. Understand the role of institutional review boards in protecting the welfare of human and animal subjects.

BIOL 384 Student-Faculty Research

Prerequisites, consent of sponsoring faculty, and department chair. Students enrolled in BIOL 384 will pursue faculty-sponsored independent or collaborative research in a laboratory setting, developing methodology, conducting research, and/or analyzing data. Minimum 3 hours of laboratory work per week per credit. P/NP. (Offered every semester.) 1-3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. By participating in a faculty-sponsored research project, performing tasks appropriate to their preparation in biology, students will gain active experience in the fundamental elements of scientific research.
2. Students will develop the ability to work in a laboratory setting, either by working as part of a laboratory team or by undertaking supervised independent research.

BIOL 407 Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology

Prerequisite, BIOL 204. Anatomy and function of the human central nervous system with emphasis on sensory and motor pathways. Lecture. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To show the students the basic anatomical structures of the human brain.
2. To develop in the students an understanding of the basic principles of the physiology of the major systems of the brain with special emphasis on sensory and motor pathways.
3. To train the students to undertake medical literature searches, critically evaluate the literature and present their analyses of the data.

BIOL 410 Developmental Biology

Prerequisite, BIOL 204. Students explore recent advances in knowledge about how organisms develop from a single fertilized egg through various embryonic stages to an adult organism. (Offered spring semester, alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. After completing this course students will have a thorough knowledge of the genetic, morphological, and tissue interactions which underlie the developmental process especially related to animal development.
2. Students will gain an awareness of how recent technological advances in genetic engineering have furthered the field of developmental biology.
3. This emphasis will acquaint the student with the changing nature of biological experimentation especially as done recently.

BIOL 417 Microbiology

Prerequisite, BIOL 204. Characterization and classification of organisms that constitute the microbial world (bacteria, viruses, protozoa, algae, fungi) with an emphasis on microbial physiology and cellular structure. The various roles of microorganisms in the environment and in disease are examined. Lecture, laboratory. Fee: $75. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. This course will prepare the student both conceptually and practically for an understanding: (1) of the diversity of life forms such as microorganisms, (2) the role of microorganisms in the biosphere (3) of the medical importance of microorganisms and, (4) how microorganisms have aided in our understanding of modern molecular biology.
2. Identify and describe fundamental elements of the microbial cell and their functions.
3. Explain, describe, and give examples of the basic principles, concepts, and theories of microbiology, including the central role of microorganisms in the biosphere.
4. Apply the reasoning skills acquired in the classroom to practical problem solving.
5. Connect the impact of the field of microbiology and related fields on national or global issues.
6. Use the scientific method to evaluate and analyze data and draw conclusions based upon that analysis.
7. Distinguish the limitations of science and differentiate between true scientific versus pseudoscientific claims.
8. Identify and describe fundamental elements of science, scientific laws, and scientific processes, including inductive and deductive processes.
9. Explain, describe, and give examples of the basic principles, concepts, and theories of the field of microbiology, including the ubiquitous nature of microorganisms and the importance of microorganisms in the environment.
10. Develop testable hypotheses based upon observation and existing information.
11. Conduct experiments to test and hypothesis.
12. Assess data, deduce meanings, and draw conclusions.
13. Evaluate microbiology-related issues and evaluate the merits of the arguments.
14. Appraise the aesthetic and intellectual aspects of scientific findings and assess the civic implications.
15. Evaluate a hypothesis in the light of generated data.
16. Evaluate the validity of an experimental design.
17. Students will perform and evaluate various scientific methodologies for identification, quantification and analysis of microorganisms.

BIOL 426 Current Issues in Genetics

Prerequisite, BIOL 204. Selected topics in genetics and current biological research and their potential impact on society. Consideration of the technical, social, and ethical implications of these developments. Lecture. (Offered alternate years.) 3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. The readings and discussions will inform the student regarding current research into genetics and biotechnology while heightening awareness of the social issues these advances may raise.
2. At the end of the course the student will be able to participate in informed discussions regarding current social issues involving genetic and reproductive engineering.
3. These would include the technical feasibility, current practice and social implications of: genetic defects, prenatal diagnosis, artificial insemination, embryo manipulation, genetic counseling and prevention of genetic disease, biotechnology and industry, genetics and agriculture, environmental hazards, and related topics.

BIOL 436/436L Molecular Genetics

Prerequisite, CHEM 335. Students will examine experimental approaches to issues in molecular biology using primary journal articles in conjunction to assigned textbook readings. Students will conduct laboratory exercises using advanced molecular biology techniques. Lecture, laboratory. Fee: $75. (Offered spring semester, alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand the mechanisms of eukaryotic gene expression.
2. Apply reasoning skills to predict how a cell will react to various growth factors via signaling cascades or antagonists.

BIOL 440 Marine Biology

Prerequisite, BIOL 205. Systematics, ecology, distribution of marine organisms. Lecture, laboratory. (Offered alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. Students will obtain a working knowledge of the central concepts of Marine Biology.
2. They should be able to discuss verbally and write about the following topics: the forces that set the ocean into motion; the determinants of primary production in the surface waters; the physical and biological forces acting on microscopic and macroscopic plankton, nekton and benthic organisms; and the physical and biological forces, including human disturbance, that impact the fragile biota of deep sea, intertidal, estuarine, and coral reef habitats.

BIOL 441 Restoration Ecology

Prerequisites, BIOL 205, 224, 319. This course will focus on the ecological issues associated with restoration of degraded habitats. An important aspect of the course will be the application of ecological theory to restoration practice, and the use of restoration as an "acid test" of our knowledge of how natural systems function. The course will include discussion of restoration in a variety of habitat types, with special attention devoted to those present in southern California. Lecture and lab. (Offered spring semester, alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To understand the history and importance of restoration ecology.
2. To understand the role of ecosystem processes in restoration design.
3. To understand functional aspects of species and interactions among species.
4. To understand restoration obstacles in invaded habitats.
5. To critically evaluate different restoration techniques.
6. To read and critically evaluate primary literature in the field of restoration ecology.

BIOL 442 Wetland Ecology

Prerequisites, BIOL 205, 224, 319. Wetlands are diverse ecosystems that provide wildlife habitat, filter nutrients from the landscape, and store globally significant amounts of carbon in their soils. Despite these benefits (and many others), over 50% of the historical wetlands in the conterminous United States have been lost. This course will investigate the unique hydrology, soil, biogeochemistry and flora that define wetlands. The changing legal status of wetlands and efforts to conserve and restore these ecosystems will also be explored. Lecture and lab. (Offered fall semester, alternate years.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To understand what defines a wetland.
2. To appreciate the diversity of wetland types.
3. To understand the hydrology of wetland ecosystems.
4. To explore the unique biogeochemistry (e.g., carbon and nutrient cycles) associated with wetland soils.
5. To investigate the characteristics of wetland plants.
6. To understand the current legal status of wetlands and investigate wetland restoration efforts.
7. To read and critically evaluate primary literature in the field of wetland ecology.

BIOL 450 Cell and Molecular Biology

Prerequisites, BIOL 204, CHEM 330. An integrated approach to cell biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology with the traditional topics of cell ultrastructure and physiology updated with regard to recent advances in molecular biology. Lecture and laboratory. (Offered fall semester.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. The student will have an in depth knowledge of eukaryotic cell structure, physiology and molecular biology at the successful completion of this course.
2. Additionally, the student will be familiar with several laboratory techniques required for the study of cell physiology and molecular biology.
3. In keeping with departmental objectives, writing as a biologist is emphasized by having students write two formal laboratory reports.

BIOL 478 Advanced Investigations of Special Topics in Biology

Prerequisite, BIOL 278, GPA of 3.000. Under the guidance of the instructor, students will design and implement an original scientific research project related to the instructor's general research area. Students will frame scientific questions, in reference to a particular literature, perform experiments, take measurements, analyze data, and discuss their findings. They will also prepare their research results for presentation to scientific meetings and/or publication. With approval from the department chair, this course may count toward departmental honors. May be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 1 credit.

BIOL 490 Independent Internship

Gain experience working in the field you think you might like to enter. P/NP. May be repeated for credit. (Offered every semester.) ½–3 credits.

BIOL 496 Seminars: Biology Lecture Series

A series of seminars presented by guest lecturers, designed around a current issue of importance in biology. May be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 1–3 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. The course will provide a forum for presentation of topics of interest in science to the Chapman Community.
2. The topics selected will be of general interest and will provide students with a broad exposure to science, developing technologies, current research, and the interrelationship of the various professions and science.

BIOL 497 Capstone: Exercise Physiology

Prerequisites, BIOL 365, 366. Capstone course for the exercise physiology emphasis. Students examine the acute and chronic adaptations made by physiological systems during high-intensity endurance exercise and during exercise performed in conditions of specific environmental stresses. Students read primary literature and participate in group research projects. Lecture, laboratory. Fee $75. (Offered as needed.) 4 credits.

Course Objectives:

1. To understand the mechanisms responsible for the acute and chronic adaptations of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems to high intensity, endurance exercise.
2. To understand how physiological systems adapt to specific environmental stresses.
3. To apply the Fick Principle to understand how physiological systems limit maximal oxygen uptake.
4. To apply information learned from classroom discussions and from assigned readings to the analysis and discussion of data collected from hypothesis driven lab experiments.
5. To write two research papers that incorporate all elements of the formal lab report and that reflect senior level writing competencies.

BIOL 499 Research in Biology

Prerequisites, 3.000 average in biology courses, consent of instructor. Independent research/study in many different aspects of biology, from cell and molecular biology to organismal biology and field studies. May be repeated for credit. (Offered every semester.) ½–6 credits.