BIOL - Biology

(2-2-3) Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor, PHSC 4010 recommended. A content course clarifying concepts in life science for middle grades teachers. Students acquire a depth of understanding of foundational life science concepts such as unity and biodiversity of life such that they can effectively assist others in learning. Course credit may not count toward M.S. Degree Biology Major Requirements. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) Overview of scientific inquiry and the processes of science, cells and cellular processes, genetics, evolution, organisms, and ecology and the earth.

(3-0-3) The goal for this course is to prepare biology graduate students to fulfill departmental teaching duties and to develop their teaching skills and techniques as part of their professional development. This course is restricted to biology graduate students.

(3-2-4) The embryological development of vertebrates. Includes study of relevant biochemistry, germ cell production, fertilization, differentiation, and the origin of organ systems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) An in-depth study of the mechanisms of hormone secretion and interactions with receptors, specific endocrine tissues and their secretions, assaying methodology, and diseases and dysfunctions that involve the endocrine glands.

(3-0-3) An overview of the interaction of drugs with tissue receptors; topics include the absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs.

(2-3-4) The microscopic anatomy of vertebrate tissues and organs, with an emphasis on human organ systems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

Advanced study of structure and function of human organ systems in health and disease.

(3-0-3) Advanced study of structural and functional organization of the brain and the spinal cord, and diseases and disorders of the nervous system with an emphasis on human neural organs.

(3-0-3) The structure and the normal and abnormal function of the vertebrate immune system, including the interactions of the cellular and humoral components.

(4-0-4) Prerequisite: Undergraduate Genetics (BIOL 2100) and Cell Molecular Physiology (BIOL 3200) or equivalent courses are required. Additional graduate level molecular cellular courses are highly encouraged. The course satisfies the biology major requirement as an upper level course. This course is designed to introduce the mechanistic fundamentals as to how the cancer arises and how this disease should be treated in the future. Emphases are given on understanding of current cancer research directions based on reading and analyzing scientific literature and future perspectives.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 with a C or better. This course provides an overview of the structure and molecular biology of viruses (classes I-VII) and subviral particles known to exist. Major modes of infection of these viral and subviral agents in host organisms and the pathogenesis they cause in their hosts are surveyed. Basic laboratory methods will be applied in the lab to develop a better understanding of how virology research and diagnostics occurs.

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200. A study of bacteria and viruses. Emphasis on physiologic processes that are peculiar to non-eukaryotic cells and their usefulness as model biological systems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-3-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100. This course will focus on mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis and the host response, and the scientific approaches that are used to investigate these processes. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100. An advanced study of the molecular basis of inheritance. DNA structure, replication, transcription and translation will be presented in detail.

(3-3-4) A presentation of the principles of plant physiology through lecture topics, lab demonstrations, and experiments. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: Undergraduate BIOL 3400 and CHEM 1211 or CHEM 2100. A presentation of the principles of plant cell physiology through lecture topics, lab demonstrations, and experiments. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(2-2-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2180 or BIOL 4180. An exploration of the extent of biodiversity in the microbial world and the functions of microorganisms in the global ecosystem. An emphasis will be placed on detection of bacteria using molecular techniques.

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 2100, BIOL 3700, and BIOL 2800. The field of molecular ecology encompasses various sub-disciplines within the biological sciences. At its heart, molecular ecology employs molecular variation in nucleic acid and/or protein data to answer question involving populations and communities of organisms. Given this breadth, the principles learned in molecular ecology are directly applicable to both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and can be utilized to address questions in nearly any research area.

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: BIOL 2100 and BIOL 3700. This course is designed to familiarize students with the field of population genetics,the branch of evolutionary biology concerned with the genetic structure of populations and how it changes through time. In a broad sense, population genetics examines the interaction of basic evolutionary processes in determining the genetic composition and evolutionary trajectories of natural populations. Upon completion of this course students should be able to demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic population genetic principles.

(1-6-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100. A laboratory-intensive course designed to introduce the student to experimental techniques, instrumentation, and methodology commonly used in the laboratory investigation of molecules and cells. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) An introduction to the physiology of the vertebrate nervous system, primarily from a cellular point of view.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 1107. This course will provide a general understanding of toxicology related to the environment. Fundamental concepts will be covered including fate, transport, biotransformation, natural attenuation of toxicants; target organ toxicity and mutagenesis along with risk assessment. The course will examine chemicals of environmental interest and how they are tested and regulated.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1107 and BIOL 2100 or BIOL 2800. Fundamentals of Waterborne Pathogens and diseases will be covered including distribution, routes of transmission, and pathogenesis.

(3-0-3) This course is designed to provide an examination of drugs and drug use, human sexuality and reproduction from a biological perspective. Various historical and social issues related to these topics will also be discussed.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 or undergraduate-level genetics course. This course will serve as an introduction to a wide array of bioethical dilemmas faced by researchers, physicians, and the general pubic. There will be a focus on proper construction of moral arguments, logical reasoning, and an exploration of all sides to different issues. In addition, analysis of these topics will occur by using biological and biotechnological knowledge and performing literature-based research.

Prerequisites: CHEM 3361 and CHEM 3361L. CHEM 3362 and CHEM 3362L are recommended. An introduction to the basic concepts of biological chemistry from the perspectives of structural biology and reaction mechanisms. Laboratory focuses on biomolecular techniques and enzyme assays.

(3-2-4) A study of taxonomy and systematics and the reasons why we name biological organisms and what classifications represent. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3400 with a C or better. This course will consist of an in-depth study of reproduction, with an emphasis on vertebrate animals. Specific topics will include maturation of the reproductive system, environmental influences on reproductive activity, reproductive endocrinology, gametogenesis, fertilization, parturition, and early development. A comparative approach will be used to illustrate the evolution of reproductive strategies in different environments.

(3-0-3) Symptomatology, pathogenesis, epidemiology and treatment of the major protozoans, trematodes, cestodes and nematodes that most commonly infect humans.

(2-4-4) Comparisons of organ function in both invertebrate and vertebrate animals. Interactions with environmental factors and control mechanisms emphasized. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) A study of the gross anatomy, biomechanics, and evolutionary relationships of the chordates. Several types of vertebrates are dissected. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) A study of the natural history, morphology, physiology, taxonomy, evolutionary relationships and behavior of insects. Covers the economic and medical importance of insects. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) Principles of evolution, classification, structure, distribution, adaptation, and life history of amphibians and reptiles. Laboratory and field work deals with various aspects of Georgia species. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) Taxonomy, morphology, life history, ecology, and distribution of fishes. Laboratory deals with taxonomy and natural history of fishes found in central Georgia. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 taken as undergraduate student. Taxonomy, morphology, life history, ecology, and distribution of algae. This course is non-repeatable. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) A study of invertebrate animals covering anatomy, physiology, ecology, taxonomy, evolutionary relationships and behavior. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) A study of the phylogeny, adaptations, and natural history of mammals worldwide. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) An introduction to the scientific study of birds, which includes the fossil record, anatomy, identification, systematics, and biogeography. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(2-4-4) A comprehensive survey of the morphology, anatomy, economic importance and evolution of vascular and nonvascular plants. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) An advanced study of the structure and function of the vertebrate musculoskeletal system.

(3-2-4) A study of the classes of vertebrates in relation to taxonomy, life history, population, and evolution. Includes laboratory and field collections emphasizing Georgia vertebrates. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

This course will explore the ecological interactions of soil-dwelling organisms with each other and their physical and chemical environment. Students will gain knowledge of the biology and systematics of soil biota and experience with techniques used to study soil processes mediated by biological activity. This course focuses on organisms in the soil environment, with emphasis on macrobiota and their functional roles in belowground food webs and ecosystem processes. Lab activities will emphasize quantifying soil fauna communities and ecological processes.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. An introduction to quantitative, theoretical and applied population and community ecology including population dynamics, species interactions and community structure.

(4-0-4) Theories and principles concerning regional patterns of plant and animal distributions.

This course will provide a broad overview of Physical, Chemical, and Geological Oceanography and functions as a complementary course to Marine Biology (BIOL 3500). The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the main ideas, theories, techniques and accomplishments of the scientific study of the ocean. Although we call our planet "Earth", it truly is a water planet, with oceans covering almost 71 percent of its surface. Water is an absolutely necessary ingredient for the development and sustenance of living organisms, including humans. The oceans have a great deal to tell us about the development of the planet and origin of life forms on it. Students will develop a basic but clear understanding of the physics, chemistry, geology, and biology contributions that make the ocean such a unique environment, influencing all of our daily activities.

(2-3-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. The ecological study of community structure, function, and the interrelated dynamics. major communities of Georgia and the major biomes of North America will be studied. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3700. The behavior of organisms ranging from bacteria to humans from the standpoint of genetics, evolution, physiology, ecology, and social organization.

This course will explore the roles that fire plays in natural and managed systems from the individual to ecosystem level, including historical, cultural, economic, ecological, evolutionary, and policy perspectives. Students will learn the principles, techniques, and methods used to apply prescribed fire. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. A consideration of major environmental questions of today’s world and the ecological aspects relating to the conservation of man’s renewable and non-renewable resources.

Natural History builds understanding of biology through detailed observational study of organisms within their environmental context. Students will learn and apply practical skills for observation and documentation of organisms in the field. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 1107. A study of interaction of microorganisms with their environment. Emphasis on microorganisms of terrestrial and aquatic environments, and environmental determinants that control their distribution, activities, and cross-interactions in these environments.

(3-2-4) A course using local flora to teach principles of plant systematics. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(2-3-4) This course is intended to provide students with a field-oriented, interpretive introduction to botany in the regional outdoors. Emphasis is given to identification, uses, habit, habitat, and communities of flowering plants in the context of local terrestrial and aquatic environments, while recognizing their global/worldwide distribution.

(2-4-4) An introduction to field techniques for studying birds, e.g., field identification by sight and song, census taking, developing a field study. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) The study of freshwater organisms, their identification, natural history, and environmental relationships. Particular emphasis will be given to lotic systems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. This course introduces students to the principles of wetland science and our practices in managing them, with emphasis on the ecosystem perspective. Students will be expected to develop an understanding of physical, chemical, and biological aspects of wetlands including the processes that form wetlands and their associated plant and animal communities and how we manage these ecosystems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) This is an advanced course designed to familiarize students with the ecology of freshwater and coastal ecosystems (both "lotic" and "lentic"). This course will introduce students to field and laboratory techniques, current theory regarding structure and function, important areas of research, and applied issues regarding conservation and management of aquatic habitats. The course will consist of a mixture of lectures and group discussions, coupled with field and laboratory exercises. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) Critical examination of the role neotropical plant resources have played in the culture, economics, and history of Latin America and the world. This course is repeatable for credit.

(3-0-3) An advanced course in ornithology with varying course topics (to be announced before term, e.g., origin of birds, fossil record of birds, migration, avian anatomy). This course is repeatable for credit.

(3-2-4) A detailed study of the evolution and phylogenetic relationships of the major groups of vertebrates. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(2-4-4) A survey of field techniques used to sample nongame wildlife to include experimental design, data collection, field notes, and final report writing. Group field project required. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 with a C or better. An overview of the ecology and evolution of animal movement behavior with focus on variable strategies for survival and reproduction. Includes experiences applying techniques for quantifying animal movement in nature, and processing and analyzing associated data. Lab fee is required.

(3-2-4) Survey of the techniques and methodologies used in wildlife management of game and nongame animals. Field project required. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(2-0-2) The goal of this course is to develop research, presentation, and writing skills in the context of thesis or non-thesis research.

(VAR 1-4) Consideration of topics in which courses are not offered otherwise, but for which there is current need. Subject matter varies. This course is repeatable for credit.

(3-2-4) Consideration of topics in which courses are not offered otherwise, but for which there is current need. Subject matter varies. This course is repeatable for credit. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(VAR 1-15) See the International Studies section of the catalog for details. This course is repeatable for credit.

(3-0-3) A practical guide to scientific research with emphasis on principles, techniques and procedures. Includes the choice and statement of the research problems, experimental design, sampling and analysis techniques, scientific illustration, and methods of reporting the results of research.

(4-0-4) This course will provide in-depth understanding of toxicology as it is related to the environment and biological systems including humans. Students taking course will develop critical thinking, writing, and presentation skills while focusing on topics in environmental toxicology.

(2-3-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2180 or BIOL 4180. The main focus will be on evaluating water quality and indoor air quality from a microbial stand point. Train students on how to perform EPA approved methods for quantifying on the detection of bacteria and algae in aquatic systems. Current methods used in microbial sourse tracking including PCR, DNA hybridization, and qPCR will be covered. This course is repeatable for credit. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(2-3-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 4180 or BIOL 4220. An exploration of the extent of biodiversity in the microbial world and the functions of microorganisms in the global ecosystem. An emphasis will be placed on the detection of bacteria in the environment using traditional and molecular techniques.Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-2-4) An in-depth study of selected areas of vertebrate physiology. Various advanced physiological techniques and small mammal surgery may be employed in the laboratory. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(4-0-4) Prerequisites: none. BIOL 5195 Molecular Biology is recommended. Survey of the information theory, methods and software used to analyze and acquire the digital data from the genetic and genomic study of biological macromolecules. Problem-solving based laboratories examine the breadth and capabilities of molecular bioinformatics analysis. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: General college courses in "genetics" in "cellular and molecular physiology. Course will focus on two selected topics in cellular or molecular biology that are the current subject of intense research. Through a combination of instructor-lead lecture and discussion as well as student presentation of key literature, the current models and investigations into the selected cellular or molecular processes will be explored.

Prerequisites: CHEM 1211 and BIOL 2100 or BIOL 2800. Environmental fate and remediation of toxic contaminants will be covered including their discharge, transport, and bioremediation.

(2-4-4) In-depth study of selected vascular plant families with discussions of their classification and evolutionary relationships. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

This course discusses the major patterns and measures of biodiversity by investigating case studies on ecological, economic, social, and legal issues related to marine biodiversity. Students develop an understanding of the major issues in biodiversity research while discussing and debating issues concerning conservation of marine biodiversity.

(3-0-3) An advanced study of the processes of organic evolution based on current literature in the subject.

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3700. A study of the advances in our understanding of speciation. Students will read, discuss, and give presentations on species concepts, how species diversify, and the origin of species.

(4-0-4) Prerequisites: CHEM 1211, and BIOL 2800 or BIOL 3200. This course will provide in-depth understanding of microbiology as it is related to the environment and biological systems including humans. The course is designed to develop analytical writing and presentation skills, and to apply them to topics in environmental microbiology.

(VAR 1-4) Independent work arranged by the instructor according to the individual student’s preparation, background, and needs. This course is repeatable for credit.

(VAR 1-6) Consideration of topics in which courses are not offered otherwise, but for which there is current need. Subject matter varies.

(VAR 1-15) An individually designed off-campus course involving study, research and/or work in a science position. This course is repeatable for credit.

(VAR 1-6) Individual independent research on a directed thesis project. This course is repeatable for credit.