21:120:101-102
General Biology (4,4)
Lectures, laboratories, and small group discussions on major biological principles and their relevance to humans. Topics in 101 include the anatomy, physiology, and ecology of animals and plants. Topics in 102 include cell biology, genetics, and evolution.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. self-paced, averaging 3 hrs. per week.
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21:120:104
Human Health and Disease (3)
Provides an introduction to the functions of the healthy human body and the mechanisms and consequences of various pathologic conditions.
Intended for students with no previous college biology or chemistry. May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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21:120:109
Basic Plant Science (3)
Introduction to basic botany and the applied plant sciences; plant biology with applications to ecology and conservation, food and drug problems, horticulture, and agriculture; demonstrations in greenhouses and campus plantings.
Not open to majors or to those who have taken or plan to take 21:120:101-102.
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21:120:110
Basic Plant Science Laboratory (1)
Studies on organs, tissues, and cells of the plant body. Exploration of the diversity of mosses to flower plants. Exercises in photosynthesis, respiration, and plant hormones.
Pre- or corequisite: 21:120:109. Not open to majors or to those who have taken or plan to take 21:120:101, 102. May be taken with 21:120:109 to fulfill the laboratory science requirement when taken in conjunction with 21:120:106, 107.
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21:120:201
Foundations of Biology: Cell and Molecular Biology (3)
The chemical components of the cell; subcellular structure and methods of study; thermodynamics and metabolism; membrane biology, energy utilization, and transfer; protein and nucleic acid structure and function; transcription, translation, and genetic regulation.
Prerequisites: 21:120:101, 102 or placement exam, and 21:160:115.
Must be taken concurrently with 21:120:202.
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21:120:201, 202
Foundations of Biology: Cell and Molecular Biology (4)
Cell chemical components, structure, and methods of study; thermodynamics and metabolism; membrane biology, energy utilization, and transfer; protein and nucleic acid structure and function; transcription, translation, and genetic regulation.
Prerequisites: 21:120:101, 102 or placement exam, and 21:160:115.
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21:120:203
Plant Biology (3)
An evolutionary survey of the plant kingdom, with emphasis on the flowering plants, their structure, and major life processes.
May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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21:120:205
Environmental Issues (3)
Basic ecological principles; the human population and attempts to control it; human impact on the environment: air and water pollution, land use and misuse, and conservation of resources.
May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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21:120:206
General Horticulture (3)
Basic principles of horticultural science; environmental control of plant growth; theories and methods of plant propagation and cultivation; introduction to ornamental plants.
May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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21:120:207
Horticulture Laboratory (1)
Basic plant morphology, performance of propagation techniques of seeds and plant organs in the greenhouse. Identification of common indoor and outdoor ornamental plants. Testing of soil mineral content, texture, and particle requirements for plant growth.
Pre- or corequisite: 21:120:106. May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences. May be taken with 21:120:106 to satisfy laboratory science requirement in conjunction with 21:120:109, 110.
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21:120:208
Human Sexuality (3)
Reproductive biology, including anatomy and development of sexual structures, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and childbirth; self-examination, contraception, and abortion, and sexually transmitted diseases; role of emotions, communication skills, and values in sexuality; diversity of sexual behavior and legal and commercial aspects of sexuality. Emphasis is on critical thinking.
May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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21:120:211
Plant Kingdom (4)
A survey of the major groups in the plant kingdom; the morphology, reproduction, and evolution of plants with emphasis on their role in nature and importance to man.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Pre- or corequisites: 21:120:101-102 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:230
Biology of Seed Plants (4)
The morphology, physiology, and reproduction of flowering plants, plant structures, functions, and products essential to human life; the cultural and applied aspects of plant science.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Pre- or corequisites: 21:120:101-102 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:235
Microbiology (3)
Fundamentals of microbiology, including the distinguishing characteristics of the various groups of microbial cells; microbial control, including physical and chemical agents and chemotherapeutic agents; applications in personal and public health and in industry; mechanisms of disease production and host resistance; prevention and control of disease.
Lec. 2 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:241-242 or equivalent. May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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21:120:237
Environmental Microbiology (4)
Discussion will be on prokaryotes and their environmental impacts; cell biology, metabolism, physiology, and genetics; selected environments.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences. Priority to students in the environmental science major and to New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) engineering majors.
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21:120:240
Human Physiology (3)
Study of the
biological function and regulation of the major organ systems of the
human body, with emphasis on homeostasis and integration as it applies
to human health and disease.
Lec. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:101, 102, 21:160:115-116. May not be used for credit toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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21:120:241-242
Anatomy and Physiology (4,4)
Examination of integrated structure and function of the human body from the aspect of levels of organization. Emphasis is on homeostatic mechanisms.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. May not be used for credit toward the biology, botany, or zoology major. Intended for students with career goals in allied health sciences. Either course may be taken first.
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21:120:280
Ecology (3)
This is an introductory course in general ecology. The basic science of ecology, the interactions of living beings among themselves and with their environment. Topics are related to environmental aspects of societal concern such as global warming, land use, biodiversity crisis, among others.
Pre- or corequisites: 21:120:101, 102.
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21:120:285
Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates (4)
Phylogeny of gross structure and structural integration in the vertebrates; laboratory work on amphioxus, lamprey, dogfish, and cat.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Pre- or corequisites: 21:120:101, 102.
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21:120:311
Taxonomy of Vascular Plants (4)
The principles of plant systematics, especially as applied to vascular plants. The identification, classification, and evolutionary relationship of major plant groups with emphasis on the local flora with extensive field trips.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. and field trips 3 hrs. Prerequisite: 21:120:211 or 230, or permission of instructor.
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21:120:313
Mycology (4)
Fungal morphology and physiology, reproduction, taxonomy, and the impact of fungi on civilization. Emphasis on medical mycology, plant fungal infections, and antibiotics derived from fungi including pharmaceuticals and the relationships between fungi and other organisms as well as current research in mycology.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisite: 21:120:201, 202 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:320
Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates (4)
Phylogeny of gross structure and structural integration in the vertebrates; laboratory work on amphioxus, lamprey, dogfish, and cat.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Pre- or corequisites: 21:120:101-102.
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21:120:322
Evolution (3)
Principles and mechanisms of evolution and history of evolutionary theory; mechanisms of animal speciation and adaptive radiation; the role of population and genetics in understanding microevolution.
Prerequisite: 21:120:352.
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21:120:325
Animal Parasites (3)
The parasitic protozoa, flatworms, roundworms, and arthropods in relation to their hosts.
Pre- or corequisites: 21:120:201, 202 plus one advanced course in biology. Open to juniors and seniors only.
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21:120:326
Laboratory Exercises in Parasitology (1)
Visualization, preparation, and identification of parasitic animals (protozoa, flatworms, roundworms, and arthropods) and host-parasite interactions.
Lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:301 plus one advanced course in biology. Corequisite: 21:120:325.
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21:120:327
Biology of Invertebrates (4)
Review of the major animal phyla; emphasis throughout on critical thinking and reasoning about the interrelationships of structure, function, and behavior in their ecological and evolutionary contexts. Laboratory work emphasizes living animals; supplemented by fieldwork. One field trip required.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:101-102.
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21:120:328
Ecology of Birds (3)
Designed as introduction to aspects of the biology of birds, this class combines field trips with lectures and a student seminar. Students will be exposed to current themes in evolution and ecology of birds and will also learn how to actively study birds in their habitats and thereby understand and appreciate the high diversity of birds.
Lec. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:101, 102 and 28:120:222, or 21:120:280, or 21:120:370.
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21:120:330
Plant Physiology (4)
Growth and metabolism of plants; water relations, photosynthesis, inorganic nutrition, metabolism of organic materials, and plant growth regulators.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:335
General Microbiology (4)
Cellular structure and metabolic pathways of microorganisms. Prokaryotic gene expression and genome structure. Taxonomy and environmental adaptations of microorganisms. Methods to grow and control microorganisms. Use of microbes in biotechnology. The laboratory includes basic techniques in microbiology, and extensive exercises in identification of organisms based on their peculiar metabolic pathways.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202 and 21:160:331.
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21:120:340
Mammalian Physiology (4)
The physiology of the human as a mammal. Function and homeostatic regulation of neuromuscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, digestive, and excretory systems.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202.
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21:120:342
Developmental Biology (3)
Descriptive and experimental approaches to molecular, cellular, and organismal changes during development; mechanisms of cell differentiation, organogenesis, morphogenesis, and pattern formation.
Lec. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202. Recommended: 21:120:320.
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21:120:343
Laboratory Exercises in Developmental Biology (1)
Study of the
biochemical, histochemical, and molecular biology techniques employed
in studying embryonic development using various model systems.
Lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202. Corequisite: 21:120:342.
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21:120:346
Neurobiology (3)
Introduction to neurobiology, emphasizing cellular, developmental, and physiological aspects. Course begins with cellular properties of neurons and synaptic communication and aims to introduce topics in the organization, function, development, and disorders of neural systems.
Lec. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202 and 355 or 356.
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21:120:352
Genetics (3)
The basic principles and mechanisms of transmission genetics. Sex-linked traits. The role of probability in genetics. Gene expression and regulation. Gene organization in the prokaryotic genophore and the eukaryotic chromosome. Genetics of model organisms. Use of mutants in genetic studies. Genomes, genomics, and the use of nucleic acids and protein databases. Epigenetics, extranuclear inheritance, and cytoplasmic factors. Generalities of population, quantitative, and evolutionary genetics.
Prerequisites: 21:120:101, 102.
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21:120:355
Cell Biology (3)
A study of cell structure and function with emphasis on molecular components and molecular mechanisms that regulate various cellular processes; recent advances in molecular biology are integrated with current knowledge of the ultrastructure and function of cells. This course is concerned primarily with eukaryotic cells.
Prerequisites: 21:120:201-202 and 21:160:115-116.
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21:120:356
Molecular Biology (3)
Gene expression and its regulation in eukaryotic cells. Gene organization and chromosome structure. Mechanisms of replication. Mutations. Mechanisms of DNA damage and repair. Transcription and regulation of RNA synthesis. Post-transcriptional processes and regulation. Translation and post-translational modifications. Nucleic acid technology. Structure and roles of noncoding RNA. Genomics and databases.
Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202.
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21:120:360
Biochemistry (3)
The objective of this course is to gain a deeper understanding of cell function through the study of the structure, function, and metabolism of its component molecules.
Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202; 21:160:335, 336.
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21:120:365
Evolution of Humans (3)
From the Big-Bang to Consciousness. Topics in astronomy, evolution, and neurobiology linking the origin of the universe, the origin of life, and the evolution of the nervous system.
Prerequisites: 21:120:101, 102, and 201.
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21:120:370
Plant Ecology (3)
Study of plants in relation to their environment; emphasis on local plant communities, modern methods of analysis, and applications to forestry and conservation.
Prerequisites: 21:120:101-102.
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21:120:371
Field Studies in Plant Ecology (3)
Modern and classical methods are employed in the study of plant communities and plant geography across the region.
Prerequisite: 21:120:370 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:380
Field Ecology (3)
Basic field techniques for the study of animals in their natural habitats; principles of animal ecology as demonstrated in field and laboratory work.
Prerequisite: 21:120:280 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:382
Animal Behavior (3)
Evolutionary processes that shape the behaviors of animals in their natural environment.
Pre- or corequisites: 21:120:101, 102.
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21:120:402
Biology of Cancer (3)
The objectives of this course are to gain a fundamental understanding of the nature of cancer at the cellular and molecular level and to understand the implications of the findings of contemporary cancer research for the prevention and treatment of the disease.
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21:120:403
Biological Ultrastructure (3)
For the student who has some histological background; makes the transition from light microscopy to electron microscopy; examines the ultrastructural appearance and functions of the subcellular organelles.
Lec. 2 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202 and permission of instructor.
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21:120:404
Light and Electron Microscopy (4)
Processing of tissue samples to obtain finished light microscope slides and electron micrographs; the techniques involved in producing micrographs; a paper interpreting content of the micrographs required.
Lec. 2 hrs., lab. 6 hrs. Prerequisite: 21:120:403.
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21:120:405
Microanatomy of Cells and Tissues (4)
Course is designed to familiarize students with microscopy techniques available to view and interpret the structural appearance and functions of the subcellular organelles and incorporate them into the various cells in the four major tissue types of the human body.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202. Open to juniors and seniors only.
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21:120:415
Paleobotany (4)
Survey of evolutionary trends in the plant kingdom; comparative study of the morphology, anatomy, and reproduction of fossil plants and their survivors, with emphasis on the vascular plants.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisite: 21:120:211 or 21:120:230, or permission of instructor.
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21:120:422
Biological Invasions (3)
Biological invasions by nonnative species have become one of the major environmental problems. Primarily addresses the ecological and evolutionary aspects of this ever-growing problem. After describing patterns of invasion and linking them into a scientific framework, applied aspects will be addressed focusing on aspects of societal concern and workable counterstrategies. The topic will be approached using lectures, student-facilitated discussions and paper presentations, illustrative labs, and computer experiments.
Prerequisites: 21:120:101, 102, and 28:120:222 or 21:120:280.
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21:120:430
Plant Growth and Development (4)
Study of the dynamics of growth and development of plants as influenced by physiological and environmental factors. Focus will be on the regulation of gene expression during plant development. Lecture topics will address modern plant molecular biology approaches. Laboratory focuses on plant tissue culture and applications to plant biotechnology.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:330 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:435
Microbial Physiology and Metabolism (3)
Biology of prokaryotic organisms. Emphasis on physiological, biochemical, and ecological aspects that are unique to bacteria.
Prerequisites: 21:120:335, 360.
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21:120:443
Immunology (3)
Basic concepts of cells and humoral products of the immune system; the genetic control of immunity and generation of diversity, antigen-antibody reactions, and immunologic techniques. These basic concepts are applied to current issues and treatment in the fields of transplantation, hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, tumor immunology, and immunodeficiency.
Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:445
Endocrinology (3)
The structures and functions of the endocrine glands and their role in the physiological integration of the human body.
Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202, 21:160:113-114 and 115-116.
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21:120:451
Laboratory in Cellular and Molecular Biology: Cellular Biophysics (4)
Laboratory-intensive course with lectures and discussion covering the physical principles governing eukaryotic cell function. Emphasis placed on the electrical properties of excitable cells and model membrane systems. Introduction to the principles underlying light and electron microscopy.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Admission by permission of instructor only. Prerequisites: 21:120:330 or 355 or 356; 21:160:115,116; 21:750:203,204.
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21:120:452
Laboratory in Cellular and Molecular Biology: Molecular Biotechniques (4)
Lecture and laboratory course on principles and techniques of molecular biotechnology. Emphasis on recent techniques in molecular biology. Laboratory exercises include isolation, cloning, and sequencing of genetic material; protein purification; gel electrophoresis of proteins and nucleic acids; DNA synthesis; RFLPs and PCR techniques; construction and screening of DNA and genomic libraries. Industrial applications of molecular biology presented.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Admission by permission of instructor only. Prerequisites: 21:120:201, 202, 356.
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21:120:455
Molecular Cell Biology (3)
This is an advanced course in cell and molecular biology, which provides students with the necessary foundation to explore and understand emerging concepts and mechanisms that govern the activities of individual cells and cells within tissue. This course is taught in a team setting with multiple faculty members bringing their expertise and research experience into the classroom setting.
Lec. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:355, 356. Recommended: 21:120:360.
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21:120:456
Virology (3)
Structure and function of viruses; modes of infection, virus-host interaction, and viral reproduction.
Prerequisite: 21:120:335 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:471
Ecological Physiology (3)
The physiological and ecological factors that permit and facilitate the adaptation of animal or plant populations to diverse environments.
Prerequisite: 21:120:370 or 380.
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21:120:472
Environmental Assessment (3)
Lectures, readings, fieldwork, practical demonstration, and evaluations used to study the science of environmental assessment and to explore regulatory frameworks in which the science may be applied to real-world situations (e.g., natural resource inventories, polluted soil and water, and wetlands).
Prerequisite: 21:120:370 or permission of instructor.
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21:120:473
Ecology of Microorganisms (3)
Lectures and problem sets on interactions between microorganisms and the environment, and their role in element cycling in pristine and contaminated terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
Prerequisite: 21:120:335.
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21:120:481
Marine Biology (4)
Basic ecology of the marine environment; primary producers, zooplankton, benthic ecology, human impact on the sea, including fisheries and pollution. Field trips to nearby salt marsh, mud flat, rocky shore, and sandy beach habitats, plus a shipboard experience.
Lec. 3 hrs., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: 21:120:101-102. Recommended: 21:120:327, 380.
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21:120:486
Tropical Field Biology (2)
An intensive two-week summer course in tropical biology given in Puerto Rico. Emphasis on principles of ecology and diversity of organisms. Extensive field trips to tropical rain forest, desert, mangrove swamp, Karst topography, coral reef, and commercial plantations.
Prerequisite: Written permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 12 students. Course is for two weeks at the University of Puerto Rico (Mayaguez). The course fee includes round-trip airfare, housing, local transportation, and all expenses except meals. Because vigorous outdoor activity is required, students must be in good physical condition.
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21:120:487
Systems Ecology: Ecosystems in the Landscape (3)
Lectures and problem sets on ecological energetics, soil-plant-atmosphere continuum, effect of spatial pattern on ecological process, landscape ecology, and other broadscale approaches to ecology.
Prerequisite: 21:120:370 or 380.
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21:120:491,492
Problems in Biology (BA,BA)
Prerequisites: Outstanding juniors and seniors may enroll in this course under the supervision of a qualified faculty member with written permission of the faculty member and the undergraduate coordinator. Students with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.2 or higher will receive special consideration. No more than 6 problems credits may be used toward any major or minor offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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21:120:493,494
Seminar in Biology (1,1)
Discussion of selected topics with emphasis on current research.
Prerequisites: Open to juniors and seniors with a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.0 and with permission of the undergraduate adviser and instructor. Only one credit may be used toward any major offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
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