Courses
Biology 221 – Genetics, Development and Evolution
An introduction to the central role of genetics in modern biology. Topics include an examination of how genetic information is expressed and regulated, how it directs organismal development, how it is passed from one generation to the next, and how it is modified via the evolutionary process. Three lectures and one discussion period per week. Prerequisite: Biology 220.
FSBio 201 – Investigative Approaches in Biology
An investigative laboratory course that emphasizes experimental design, modern experimental techniques and instrumentation, analysis and interpretation of data, and written and oral presentation. The course consists of three multi-week project modules designed to illustrate investigative approaches at different levels of biological organization—molecular/cellular, organismal/physiology, and population/ecosystem. There is an emphasis on independent and cooperative laboratory/field work, and on writing and speaking in the sciences. One two-hour recitation/discussion and three-hour lab period per week. Four credits. Prerequisite: Biology 220. This course is required for Biology majors and minors.
An examination of modern evolutionary biology, focusing on the process and pattern of evolutionary change. Topics include sources of genetic variation, natural selection and adaptation, molecular evolution, speciation, macroevolution, and the reconstruction of evolutionary history. Prerequisites: Biology 220, 221, and FS Bio 201.
Biology 580 – Junior Seminar: Animal Behavior
An examination of animal behavior from an ecological and evolutionary perspective. Topics include the genetics and development of behavior, behavioral aspects of resource use and predator-prey relationships, male and female reproductive strategies, parental care, and social behavior. One laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Biology 220, 221, and FS Bio 201.
Biology 600 – Senior Project and Seminar I
Individual senior research projects will be developed in group and individual meetings with the project advisor and other appropriate faculty members. Pertinent literature is examined in order to identify proper experimental approaches, designs, techniques, and methods of data analysis. Oral and written research proposals and progress reports are presented and discussed. Credit: Two semester hours. Prerequisite: Biology 580.
Biology 610 – Senior Project and Seminar II
A continuation of Biology 600. Group and individual meetings are held to evaluate the progress of individual student research projects. Emphasis is placed on data analysis and interpretation, and on modes of presentation of research findings. Students will complete a written thesis, oral defense, and present their findings at the departmental senior project symposium. Credit: Four semester hours. Prequisite: Biology 600.
FS 101 – Darwin for Doctors: The Evolutionary Biology of Medicine
An exploration of the emerging discipline of Darwinian medicine: how evolutionary thinking and the principle of natural selection can provide insight into human health and the treatment of disease. Coursework emphasizes the development of effective oral and written communication skills with a focus on description, summary and critical thinking.
FS 102 – The Evolutionary Biology of Sex
An exploration of sex and sexual behavior from an evolutionary perspective. Research over the last quarter century has revealed an astonishing diversity of sexual practices among animals and other sexually reproducing organisms. The seminar will attempt to make sense of this diversity and ask what, if anything, can be learned about human sexual behavior by examining sex in its broad evolutionary context. The seminar develops written and oral communication skills with an emphasis on persuasive communication.
WGSS 306 – Cultural and Evolutionary History of Sexuality
An examination of sexuality from evolutionary, historical, and cultural perspectives. This discussion-based class provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the biological and cultural basis of human sexuality, sexual identities, sexual practices. Topics include homosexuality, bisexuality, intersexuality, transgender and transexuality, heterosexuality, female orgasm, and adultery.