An introduction to selected biological topics and the methods of science through an exploration of current topics such as evolution, bioethics and conservation biology. Students may only take this course once for credit. GT-SC2
An introduction to basic biological principles as they apply to interactions between organisms and their environment. Consideration is given to biotic and abiotic interactions, energy flow, biogeochemical cycling, population growth, biodiversity, basic cell biology, genetics, and evolution with a special emphasis on human impacts on these biological systems. This course establishes a strong foundation in applied biology from a scientific perspective. GT-SC2
An experimental approach in both the field and laboratory to explore fundamental biological principles including biotic and abiotic interactions, energy flow, biogeochemical cycling, population growth, biodiversity, basic cell biology, genetics and evolution. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 130 or instructor permission. GT-SC1
An introduction to the central unifying concepts of biology including the biochemical foundations of life, cell structure and function, cell metabolism, genetics, and evolution. Laboratories introduce students to the process and methods of science through investigative experiences. This course is designed for the science major. A year of high school biology and a year of high school chemistry are highly recommended. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: University Entry-Level Expectations met for mathematics and English. GT-SC1
An overview of organismal diversity and evolution. Through a taxonomic survey, students are introduced to prokaryotic and eukaryotic diversity and evolution including microorganisms, fungi, plants, and animals. Fundamentals of evolution including the history of life, evidence for common ancestry, mechanisms of evolutionary change, and speciation are covered. Organismic structure, function, and ecology are also explored. Laboratories introduce students to the process and methods of science through investigative experiences. This course is designed for the science major. A year of high school biology and a year of high school chemistry are highly recommended. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: University Entry-Level Expectations met for mathematics and English. Or instructor permission.
An appraisal of man's surroundings which influence his health, including an introduction to the societal structure designed to cope with health problems. Of particular benefit to those who plan to major in the social sciences or enter the field of public health. GT-SC2
A study of the basic aspects of microbiology that includes an introduction to the identification, physiology, growth and control of microbes. Laboratory exercises will emphasize aseptic, pure culture, and identification techniques. Additional course fee applies.
An introduction to the science of human nutrition. Consideration is given to the chemical nature and functions of the major groups of nutrients, the function of the digestive system, energy metabolism and balance, weight control, and nutrition for fitness. Human nutrition during the life span is also addressed. Prerequisites: BIOL 150; and CHEM 101 or CHEM 111; or instructor permission.
An experimental approach in both field and laboratory to explore fundamental ecological principles. Students gather and analyze data to address ecological hypotheses, learn practical ecological skills (performing field techniques, using statistical and graphical tools, and interpreting ecological software), and develop oral and written communication skills. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 151, and CHEM 113 or instructor permission. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 301.
An introduction to experimentation and laboratory techniques used in cell biology, microbiology, and genetics, including experimental design, data analysis, and presentation of research results. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 310 and BIOL 312; or instructor permission.
This course introduces students to the appropriate mathematical techniques to answer questions about information contained in genetic sequences. These techniques may include dynamic programming, motif similarity, Bayesian models, hidden Markov models, principal component analysis, and clustering. Students use standard genome query tools to annotate genomic DNA. BIOL 317 and MATH 317 cannot both be taken for credit. Prerequisites: BIOL 312, BIOL 313, and MATH 213; or instructor permission.
An introduction to the study of bird evolution, ecology, and conservation. This course has a strong field component providing frequent opportunities to observe birds in their native environments. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or instructor permission
An introduction to the study of mammal taxonomy, evolution, ecology and conservation. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or instructor permission.
Invertebrate Zoology is a comprehensive overview of invertebrate organisms that comprise over 98% of all animals on Earth. This course delves into various aspects of the anatomy, biodiversity, ecology, evolutionary adaptations, physiology, systematics and taxonomy of invertebrate organisms. The laboratory portion of this course has a strong field component providing ample opportunity for students to observe invertebrates in their natural habitats and gain an appreciation for the ecological roles invertebrates play in local ecosystems. Prerequisite: BIOL 151 or instructor permission.
An introduction to the world of the most diverse and abundant form of animal life on Earth through an experiential, field, and laboratory class. The course emphasizes field study, collection and preservation, identification, ecology, and natural history. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or instructor permission.
An introduction to microbial morphology, identification, physiology, genetics, and microbiology laboratory techniques. A brief consideration is given to fungi. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and BIOL 313; or instructor permission.
Using field and laboratory experiences this course explores the diversity within the plant kingdom using a comparative approach to examine evolutionary trends and relationships.Students are introduced to the structure and function of plants through an investigation of plant cells, tissues, organs, and basic physiological processes. Economic importance, human uses, and significance of plants to society are emphasized. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 151, and ENG 102; or instructor permission.
A field and laboratory course focusing on identification of flowering plants commonto the Western Slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. This course covers methods of plant collection and preservation, field identification, natural history, and ecology as well as local plants of particular human interest, including those that are medically important, edible, and poisonous. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151; or instructor permission.
An introduction to the enigmatic kingdom of Fungi. Fungal classification, life cycles, morphology, development, symbioses, and ecological and economic significance will be explored through lecture, lab, and field experiences. Methods of fungal collection, preservation, and identification will be covered with a focus on spring and snowbank fungi of the Rocky Mountains. Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and 151; or instructor permission.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of evolutionary processes, mechanisms, and analytical techniques. Topics include population genetics, conservation genetics, phylogenetic analysis, adaptation, behavioral evolution, sexual selection, and speciation. Evolutionary perspectives in human health and medicine, conservation biology, agriculture, natural resource management, biotechnology, global change, and emerging diseases are considered. Prerequisites: BIOL 312; or ENVS 350, ENVS 370, ENVS 390, and either BIOL 151 or Both BIOL 130 and BIOL 135; or instructor permission.
An introduction to regulatory mechanisms which maintain normal body function. Specific topics include cytology, histology, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system. The course is designed for pre-nursing and exercise and sport science students. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: BIOL 150; CHEM 231 or CHEM 111; or instructor permission.
A study in a specific area of biology under the direction of a faculty member. May be taken for a maximum of four credits. Graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only.
Under faculty supervision, students participate in the development of laboratory and field experience exercises, as well as in their instruction and execution. Specifically designed for students serving as teaching assistants in Biology.May be taken for a maximum of 3 credits. Graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 151, and instructor permission.
A study of the molecular mechanisms by which cellular processes are controlled in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Topics include the biochemistry of macromolecular processes, the structure of genes and chromosomes, the genetic and molecular techniques used to study gene expression, and the transcriptional and translational control of gene expression. The laboratory includes recombinant DNA techniques to manipulate the genome of a model organism. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus, BIOL 313, and CHEM 471; or instructor permission.
Principles of ecology are applied to population and habitat management towards wildlife conservation. Tools used by wildlife biologists to restore endangered species, harvest sustainable populations, reduce overpopulated species, and to monitor and study populations are emphasized. Habitat management approaches are discussed, along with human dimensions in wildlife conservation. A field component allows students to investigate wildlife populations and habitat issues in the Gunnison Basin. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or instructor permission. Co-requisite: BIOL 431.
A one week intensive field course focuses on wildlife conservation issues and wildlife management techniques such as trapping and marking wildlife, radio telemetry, population monitoring, GPS and GIS, and wildlife conflict resolution. The course includes a trip outside the basin; a field trip course fee is required. This course meets the week prior to the start of the fall semester. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or instructor permission. Co-requisite: BIOL 430.
Students will learn about tools and techniques used by wildlife managers for analysis of populations, such as distance sampling, mark-recapture methods, survival analysis, home range analysis, and population modeling. Students will be introduced to quantitative techniques and learn to use computer software that will allow them to analyze wildlife populations. Prerequisites: BIOL 301 and MATH 213.
An introduction to the study of animal behavior. This course emphasizes the importance of ecology and evolution in understanding animal behavior. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus or instructor permission.
This course addresses the reduction in biological diversity of the planet and suggested solutions to prevent further reduction. Integrating themes are drawn from scientific disciplines such as population genetics, ecology, evolutionary biology, botany, zoology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and wildlife management. Prerequisites: BIOL 312; or ENVS 350, ENVS 370, ENVS 390, and either BIOL 151 or both BIOL 130 and BIOL 135; or instructor permission.
A survey of the three main ecoregions of Colorado including the Great Plains, the Southern Rocky Mountains, and the Colorado Plateau. Students travel throughout Colorado and explore the ecology and natural history of the ecosystems by hiking, backpacking, and river rafting. Content includes an evolutionary perspective on ecosystem features and the adaptations of species characterizing each system, as well as applied issues in natural resources management. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or instructor permission.
An examination of the embryology of vertebrates, stressing mammalian embryonicdevelopment and comparisons with amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and BIOL 313; or instructor permission.
A comprehensive overview of the biology and diversity of fishes. Topics that are covered include fish anatomy, behavior, biodiversity, conservation, ecology, evolution, morphology, physiology, and zoogeography. Additional topics include experimental design, data analysis and interpretation, and verbal and written professional communication. Colorado fishes will be emphasized, but other freshwater and marine fishes will also be covered. Prerequisites: BIOL 301 or instructor permission.
A laboratory course focused on several aspects of the biology and diversity of fishes. Laboratory and field activities include a phylogenetic overview of fishes, as well as examining the unique morphological characteristics, ecological roles, evolutionary histories, physiological adaptations, and zoogeography of major taxonomic groups (e.g., jawless fishes, cartilaginous fishes, bony fishes, and common fish families). Laboratory and field exercises focus heavily on the local fauna, although marine and other freshwater taxa are also included. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 467 or instructor permission.
This course includes a lecture and laboratory and focuses on theory and methods associated with exploited populations of fish and other aquatic organisms. Covered topics include population growth, sustainable yields, conservation, community interactions, human impacts, and policy. Management techniques including sampling methods, monitoring, habitat assessment, and regulations will also be taught. Local fisheries will be highlighted in laboratory/field activities, and nationwide/global examples will be discussed in class. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or instructor permission.
A study of physical, chemical, and biological parameters of lakes and streams in the functioning of freshwater eco-systems. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus and SCI 202; or instructor permission.
An introduction to plant populations and communities, including their role withinterrestrial ecosystems. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: BIOL 301; or instructor permission
Ecology of forest species, communities, landscapes, and ecosystems, with a focus on the Gunnison Basin. Topics include tree physiology, species interactions, fire and disturbance, succession, forest types, climate, forest management and restoration. Labs and field trips will provide hands-on experience and practical skills in tree identification, forest mensuration, vegetation sampling, statistics and GIS. Students will develop and conduct independent/group research projects. Additional course fee applies. Prerequisites: BIOL 301, MATH 213; or instructor permission.
An examination of biological subdisciplines through an investigation of the primary literature. The professional practices, procedures, and standards of the subdiscipline are discussed. This course may be repeated for credit and must be taken twice to fulfill the capstone course requirement. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus; and MATH 151 or MATH 213; or instructor permission.
An advanced research experience resulting in a Senior Thesis, supervised by a thesis committee of three faculty members including at least one biologist. A proposal of the project must be approved by the thesis committee prior to project initiation. In addition to completing the written thesis, students must present the results of their work in a departmental seminar. This course satisfies the capstone course requirement. Prerequisites: Biology Nucleus; and MATH 151 or MATH 213; or instructor permission.