BIO 3300 Basic Survey of Sciences I (3-0). QEP MAPPED COURSE A general science course designed for elementary education majors, focusing on understanding and teaching Physics and Chemistry standards, from Kindergarten level through Middle School. Standards will be presented using the scientific inquiry cycle of observing a phenomenon, asking questions, constructing explanations, planning and carrying out investigations, and engaging in argument from evidence.
BIO 3302 Evolution (3-0). Evolution is the central concept in biology. This course examines evolution as a science and places it in an historical context. Lectures focus on descent with modification, the nature of natural selection, the history of the earth, the information content of the fossil record, and processes responsible for diversification (speciation and extinction). Prerequisites: BIOL 3306 or BIO 3306
BIO 3306 Genetics (3-0). A comprehensive introduction to the four main areas of modern genetics: Mendelian genetics, cytogenetics, molecular genetics, and population genetics. The historical and philosophical basis for these areas will be dealt with using plant and animal studies. Prerequisites: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107
BIO 3307 Animal Behavior (3-0). The study of feeding, defense, animal orientation, instinctive behavior, learning, communication, social, and sexual behavior with emphasis on evolutionary and ecological relationships. Prerequisites: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107
BIO 3308 Foundations of Elementary Science I (3-0). First course in a series of two in required science content sequence for preservice elementary and middle school teachers. Topics covered will include the following TEA science competencies: History & Nature of Science; Impact of Science; Concepts & Processes; Forces & Motion; Physical & chemical Properties; Energy & Interactions; Energy Transformation & Conservation; Structure & Function of Living Things; Reproduction & the Mechanisms of Heredity. Emphasis on problem-solving as a pedagogical tool with integration of manipulative-based explorations. For elementary education majors only. Offered fall.
BIO 3309 Foundations of Elementary Science II (3-0). Second course in a series of two in required science content sequence for preservice elementary and middle school teachers. Topics covered will include the following TEA science competencies: Lab Processes, Equipment & Safety; Students as Learners & Science Instruction; Science Assessment; Adaptions * Evolution; Organisms & the Environment; Structure & Function of Earth Systems; Cycles in Earth Systems; Energy in Weather & Climate; Solar System & the Universe. Emphasis on problem-solving as a pedagogical tool with integration of manipulative-based explorations. For elementary education majors only. Offered spring.
BIO 3406 Principles of Ecology (3-2). A study of the interrelationships of plants and animals and their environments, addressing where and how organisms live. To include, but not limited to: population growth, ecosystem function, energy flow, nutrient cycling, ecological classification, biodiversity, species interactions, adaptation, sampling and censusing techniques. Prerequisites: 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107
BIO 3407 Vertebrate Natural History (3-2). Taxonomy, evolution, and natural history of vertebrates of the world with emphasis on North American and Texas species. Prerequisite: BIOL 1407
BIO 4101 Biology Senior Review (1-0). The purpose of the senior capstone is to provide students with a formal opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the Biology curriculum to a culminating personalized learning experience. Students conduct a thorough literature review of pertinent topics in biology, analyze and summarize findings, resulting in a written and/or oral report. Required for all Biology majors. To be taken during the final long semester before graduation. Prerequisite: Completion of, or current enrollment in, all required departmental courses (e.g., Genetics and Cell Biology).
BIO 4301 Cell Biology (3-0). A study of the particulate morphology and basic physiology of the cell and cell organelles, including basic facts, concepts, and problems in modern cellular biology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107.
BIO 4305 Special Topics (3-0). A course dealing with selected and timely topics in biology such as animal behavior, animal physiology, coevolution, invasive species, conservation or many other potential subjects. May be repeated when topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107.
BIO 4403 Herpetology (3-2). An exploration into the ecology, natural history, physiology, evolution and systematics of amphibians and reptiles with emphasis on those species found in the southwestern region of Texas. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107.
BIO 4404 Ornithology (3-2). An exploration into the ecology, natural history, physiology, evolution and systematics of birds with emphasis on those species found in the southwestern region of Texas. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107.
BIO 4409 Mammalogy (3-2). An exploration into the ecology, natural history, physiology, evolution, systematics, and economic relations of mammals with emphasis on those species found in the southwestern region of Texas. Museum technique and field work will be stressed. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107.
BIO 4415 Desert Ecology (3-2). A course dealing with the biology of North American deserts, primarily the Chihuahuan Desert. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107.
BIO 5301 Biogeography (3-0). This course investigates the spatial patterns of biological diversity and its causes, both in the present and in the past. Prerequisite: Bachelor of Science in Biology or permission of the instructor
BIO 5303 Evolutionary Biology (3-0). This course will focus on current theories of forces of evolutionary change, including natural selection, gene flow, founder effects and the role of evolutionary change in the origin of new species and the diversity of life. Prerequisite: Bachelor of Science in Biology or permission of the instructor.
BIO 5305 Physiological Ecology (3-0). Study of how interactions between vertebrate physiology and behavior shape vertebrate biology in an ecological context. Prerequisite: Bachelor of Science in Biology or permission of the instructor
BIO 5307 Understanding the Human Body (3-0). A course designed to increase content knowledge about the anatomy and physiology of the 11 organ systems in humans. Prerequisite: Bachelor of Science in Biology or permission of the instructor
BIO 5309 Comparative Vertebrate Biology (3-0). A course designed to increase content knowledge about the taxonomy, morphology, adaptations, and evolution of vertebrates. Prerequisite: Bachelor of Science in Biology or permission of the instructor
BIO 5313 Special Topics (3-0). A course dealing with selected and timely topics in biology such as animal behavior, animal physiology, coevolution, invasive species, conservation or many other potential subjects. Prerequisite: Bachelor of Science in Biology or permission of the instructor
BIOL 1106 (BIOL 1106) Biology for Majors I Laboratory (0-2). The first half of a two semester sequence including the molecular basis of life, biology and replication of the cell, transcription, translation, energy acquisition and retrieval, and reproduction. This lab will focus on cell structure and replication, the physical and chemical properties of life and energy cycles. Required for Biology Majors and Minors. Prerequisites: Biology for Majors I (BIOL 1306) lecture must be taken concurrently or previously
BIOL 1107 (BIOL 1107) Biology for Majors II Laboratory (0-2). The second half of a two semester sequence including foundational concepts of natural selection, evolution, and speciation, anatomy and physiology and diversity of plants and animals, and ecological and environmental principles. This lab will focus on natural selection simulation, phylogenetics, microscopy, animal and plant anatomy, and the diversity of microbes, protisis, fungi, plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. Required for Biology Majors and Minors. Prerequisites: Biology for Majors II (BIOL 1307) lecture must be taken concurrently or previously
BIOL 1111 (BIOL 1111) General Botany Lab (0-2). Laboratory activities will reinforce fundamental biological concepts relevant to plant physiology, life cycle, growth and development, structure and function, and cellular and molecular metabolism. The role of plants in the environment, evolution, and phylogeny of major plant groups, algae, and fungi. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 1113 (BIOL 1113) General Zoology Lab (0-2). Laboratory activities will reinforce fundamental biological concepts relevant to animals, including systematics, evolution, structure and function, cellular and molecular metabolism, reproduction, development, diversity, phylogeny, and ecology. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 1301 Medical Terminology (3-0). This course is intended to introduce students to the importance of the medical terminology in order to properly use it in a medical environment. This goal will be addressed through an examination of the terminology of the human body, starting with the general terms and then specializing on the various systems of the body, including the integument, muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine, lymphatic, respiratory, reproductive, and urinary. Combined with o n- line resources, students will acquire an understanding of how medical terms should be used, pronounced, and the meaning behind these terms.
BIOL 1306 (BIOL 1306) Biology for Majors I (3-0). The first half of a two semester sequence including the molecular basis of life, biology and replication of the cell, transcription, translation, energy acquisition and retrieval and reproduction. Required for Biology Majors and Minors.
BIOL 1307 (BIOL 1307) Biology for Majors II (3-0). The second half of a two semester sequence including foundational concepts of natural selection, evolution, and speciation, anatomy and physiology of plants and animals, diversity of plants and animals, and ecological and environmental principles. Required for Biology Majors and Minors. Prerequisites: Biology for Majors I (BIOL 1306/BIOL1106)
BIOL 1311 (BIOL1311) General Botany (3-0). A general survey of the plant kingdom which considers the fundamentals of biological facts, laws, and principles as they apply to plants. Structure and functions of the organs of representative plants will be considered.
BIOL 1313 (BIOL 1313) General Zoology (3-0). A general survey of the animal kingdom which considers the fundamentals of biological facts, laws, and principles as they apply to animals. The structure and functions of the organs and systems of representative animals will be covered.
BIOL 1340 Pathophysiology (3-0). This course builds on knowledge obtained in anatomy and physiology courses which provides information related to basic pathological processes that underlie diseases commonly found in clinical practice. The basics of each pathological process are explained and illustrated by exploration of common diseases caused by that pathological process. Introduction of selected pathophysiologic concepts across the life span will be initiated in this course with emphasis on diagnostic data related to the concept.
BIOL 2100 Independent Study/Research (0-3). Independent study or research of a topic in biology with supervision by a biology faculty member. This course may be repeated if topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I
BIOL 2101 (BIOL 2101) Anatomy & Physiology I Laboratory (0-2). Study of the structure and function of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. Also focuses on basic cellular physiology and how it applies to various systems of the body. This lab will involve inspection of prepared slides, anatomical models, and dissection of mammalian material. Course is intended for pre-nursing, pre-medical, pre-optometry, pre-veterinary students, other pre-health professionals and Biology Majors. Prerequisites: Anatomy & Physiology I (BIOL 2301) to be taken concurrently or previously; Biology for Majors I (BIOL 1306/BIOL 1106) strongly preferred.
BIOL 2102 (BIOL 2102) Anatomy & Physiology II Laboratory (0-2). Study of the structure and function of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, immune, endocrine and reproductive systems. This lab will involve inspection of prepared slides, anatomical models, and dissection of mammalian material. Course is intended for pre-nursing, pre-medical, pre-optometry, pre-veterinary students, other pre-health professionals and Biology Majors. Prerequisites: Anatomy & Physiology I lecture and laboratory (BIOL 2301/BIOL2101) required; Anatomy & Physiology II (BIOL 2302) to be taken concurrently or previously.
BIOL 2121 (BIOL 2121) Microbiology for Science Majors Laboratory (0-2). Principles of microbiology, including metabolism, structure and function of microbes. This lab presents an overview of the ubiquity and diversity of microorganisms and will focus on hands-on learning of microscopy, aseptic technique, isolating, culturing and identifying bacteria. This course is designed for Biology Majors and Minors, pre-nursing, pre-dental, and pre-veterinary students. Prerequisites: Microbiology for Science Majors (BIOL 2321) lecture must be taken concurrently or previously.
BIOL 2200 Independent Study/Research (0-6). Independent study or research of a topic in biology with supervision by a biology faculty member. This course may be repeated if topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I
BIOL 2300 Independent Study/Research (0-9). Independent study or research of a topic in biology with supervision by a biology faculty member. This course may be repeated if topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I
BIOL 2301 (BIOL 2301) Anatomy & Physiology I (3-0). Study of the structure and function of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. Also focuses on basic cellular physiology and how it applies to various systems of the body. Course is intended for pre-nursing, pre-medical, pre-optometry, pre-veterinary students, other pre-health professionals and Biology Majors. Prerequisites: Biology for Majors I (BIOL 1306/BIOL 1106) strongly preferred
BIOL 2302 (BIOL 2302) Anatomy & Physiology II (3-0). Study of the structure and function of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, immune, endocrine and reproductive systems. Course is intended for pre-nursing, pre-medical, pre-optometry, pre-veterinary students, other pre-health professionals and Biology Majors. Prerequisites: Anatomy & Physiology I lecture and laboratory (BIOL 2301/BIOL2101) required
BIOL 2320 Special Topics (3-0). A course offering selected topics in biology. This course may be repeated if topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I
BIOL 2321 (BIOL 2321) Microbiology for Science Majors (3-0). Principles of microbiology, including metabolism, structure and function, genetics and phylogeny of microbes. This course presents an overview of the ubiquity, diversity and evolution of microorganisms, microbial ecology, and medical microbiology. This course is designed for Biology Majors and Minors, pre-nursing, pre-dental, and pre-veterinary students. Prerequisites: Biology for Majors I (BIOL 1306/BIOL 1106) or Anatomy and Physiology I (BIOL 2301/BIOL 2101) required.
BIOL 2404 (BIOL 2404) Anatomy and Physiology (3-2). Basic structure and function of human systems, including: skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, digestive, and urinary systems. Laboratory emphasis on anatomy and lecture emphasis on physiology. Recommended for Kinesiology and pre-vocational nursing students. This course will not count toward credit in a Biology major or minor. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I Lab fee: $8
BIOL 2405 Plants and People (3-2). A survey of plants and plant products that have major uses in human life. Such uses include food, fiber, medicines, religious sacraments, poisons, stimulants, inebriants, oils, perfumes, dyes, spices, and beverages. Examples from Trans-Pecos Texas will be discussed, including forages, toxic plants and invasive species. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II preferred Lab fee: $8
BIOL 2406 (BIOL 2406) Environmental Biology (3-2). An introduction to the biological effect of the human activities on the environment. This course emphasizes water, soil, and air pollution as well as other current ecological concerns. The course serves as one of the introductory courses in environmental science. The laboratory will focus on the EPA Standards Method used in field and laboratory analysis of environmental samples. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I preferred. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 2420 Special Topics with Laboratory (3-2). This is a course offering selected topics in biology with laboratory. It may be repeated if topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 3301 Human Nutrition (3-0). A general Science course designed for elementary education majors only, focusing on understanding and teaching Earth Sciences and Biology standards, from Kindergarten level through Middle School. Standards will be presented using the scientific inquiry cycle of observing a phenomenon, asking questions, constructing explanations, planning and carrying out investigations, and engaging in argument from evidence.
BIOL 3302 Evolution (3-0). Evolution is the central concept in biology. This course examines evolution as a science and places it in an historical context. Lectures focus on descent with modification, the nature of natural selection, the history of the earth, the information content of the fossil record, and processes responsible for diversification (speciation and extinction). Prerequisites: BIOL 3306 or BIO 3306
BIOL 3303 Sciences in Cinema and Television (3-0). A lecture course examining the scientific content or lack thereof in classic and current films. Films with a scientific theme will be viewed and the merits of the scientific content will be discussed. Students will gain an understanding and appreciation of how science is portrayed to the viewing public by the film and television industries and can be used as a persuasive tool for political maneuvering.
BIOL 3305 Women in Science (3-0). Explores the roles and contributions that past and present women have made within the sciences, including: chemistry, earth and physical sciences, biology, and natural resource management.
BIOL 3306 Genetics (3-0). A comprehensive introduction to the four main areas of modern genetics: Mendelian genetics, cytogenetics, molecular genetics, and population genetics. The historical and philosophical basis for these areas will be dealt with using plant and animal studies. Prerequisites: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107
BIOL 3307 Animal Behavior (3-0). The study of feeding, defense, animal orientation, instinctive behavior, learning, communication, social, and sexual behavior with emphasis on evolutionary and ecological relationships. Prerequisites: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107
BIOL 3308 Applied Entomology (3-0). The study of the various means of controlling and managing insect populations, from botanical and chemical pesticides, to cultural and mechanical means. Students will learn about various insect management strategies through a combination of lecture and current published literature. Prerequisites: BIOL 1306 Biology for Majors I
BIOL 3309 History of Science (3-0). The study of the evolution of scientific discovery over time. Topics covered will reach beyond just biology, covering physics, astronomy, chemistry, and medicine. Time periods covered begin in the ancient sciences, and move forward to the Renaissance. Scientific discoveries will be examined culture by culture, to see the multicultural influence on the development of science over time.
BIOL 3403 Parasitology (3-2). A study of the biology, morphology, and ecology of parasitic organisms as they relate to various host- parasite relationships and diseases in animals and man. The diagnosis, pathology, treatment and prevention of parasitism will be discussed. Post mortem examinations and treatment of animals will be performed in labs as available. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 3405 Agrostology (3-2). The classification, phylogeny, natural history, and literature of the important range grasses of the Trans- Pecos region of Texas. Collection and field trips. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 3406 Principles of Ecology (3-2). A study of the interrelationships of plants and animals and their environments, addressing where and how organisms live. To include, but not limited to: population growth, ecosystem function, energy flow, nutrient cycling, ecological classification, biodiversity, species interactions, adaptation, sampling and censusing techniques. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 3408 Invertebrate Zoology (3-2). The study of the life history, morphology, taxonomy, phylogeny, and ecology of invertebrate organisms. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 3601 General Entomology (4-4). A comprehensive introduction to the field of entomology, including functional anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and control of insects. Laboratory section emphasizes taxonomy. Collection of insects is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Field school fee: $175 – $1800
BIOL 3602 Plant Taxonomy (4-4). The taxonomic study of vascular plants, emphasizing the flowering plants of Trans-Pecos Texas. Included are traditional aspects of plant classification, phylogeny, herbarium techniques, collections, and field trips. Usually offered only in summer. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Field school fee: $175 – $1800
BIOL 4101 Biology Senior Review (1-0). The purpose of the senior capstone is to provide students with a formal opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the Biology curriculum to a culminating personalized learning experience. Students conduct a thorough literature review of pertinent topics in biology, analyze and summarize findings, resulting in a written and/or oral report. Required for all Biology majors. To be taken during the final long semester before graduation. Prerequisite: Completion of, or current enrollment in, all required departmental courses (e.g., Genetics and Cell Biology).
BIOL 4102 Individual Studies (1-0). Individual study of selected topics in biological literature or Field Biology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I
BIOL 4202 Individual Studies (2-0). Individual study of selected topics in biological literature or Field Biology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I
BIOL 4300 Individual Studies (3-0). Independent study of selected topics in Biology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306 – Biology for Majors I
BIOL 4301 Cell Biology (3-0). A study of the particulate morphology and basic physiology of the cell and cell organelles, including basic facts, concepts, and problems in modern cellular biology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107.
BIOL 4305 Special Topics (3-0). A course dealing with selected and timely topics in biology such as animal behavior, animal physiology, coevolution, invasive species, aquatic plants, conservation or many other potential subjects. May be repeated when topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107.
BIOL 4307 Capstone Research (3-0). A capstone research project – undergraduate thesis designed to culminate the undergraduate experience in the Biology program. Course is designed to have students coordinate research activities with a mentor, conduct a study, write up results in a publishable format according to the appropriate discipline, and present findings to a scientific audience. Prerequisite, if any: Biology major of Junior or Senior classification.
BIOL 4402 Ichthyology (3-2). The systematic, phylogeny, natural history, and economic importance of the fishes of the world with emphasis on those found in the fresh and salt waters of Texas. This course also serves as an introduction to Vertebrate Zoology. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4403 Herpetology (3-2). An exploration into the ecology, natural history, physiology, evolution and systematics of amphibians and reptiles with emphasis on those species found in the southwestern region of Texas. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4404 Ornithology (3-2). An exploration into the ecology, natural history, physiology, evolution and systematics of birds with emphasis on those species found in the southwestern region of Texas. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4405 Plant Physiology (3-2). The study of the life processes of plants and the physical and chemical phenomena of plant cells, and their relationship to the environment. Studies of photosynthesis, transportation, translocation, nitrogen fixation, and hormones will be included with emphasis on vascular plants. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4408 Morphology of the Vascular Plants (3-2). The study of the vascular plants, including life cycles, life histories, and consideration of evolutionary trends. Field trip. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4409 Mammalogy (3-2). An exploration into the ecology, natural history, physiology, evolution, systematics, and economic relations of mammals with emphasis on those species found in the southwestern region of Texas. Museum technique and field work will be stressed. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4410 Medical and Veterinary Entomology (3-2). A comprehensive introduction to the insects and other arthropods of medical and veterinary importance. Lectures emphasize life-cycles, transmission of disease, and control practices. Laboratory studies emphasize taxonomy and techniques. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4412 Medical/Veterinary Microbiology (3-2). A comprehensive introduction to the microbiology of pathogenic organisms in the medical and veterinary microbiology, the immune response and pathogenesis, principles of laboratory diagnosis, bacteriology, virology, mycology, and parasitology. Laboratory will focus on specimen collection and diagnostic methods. Prerequisite: Introduction to Microbiology or consent of instructor. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4413 Collections Management (3-2). Learn the techniques and skills required to operate, curate, and manage a variety of biological collections. This will include proper handling, preservation, organization, and accessioning techniques for both zoological and botanical materials. The legal side of collection maintenance will be covered, in addition to practical applications of museums in research. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4414 Forensic Entomology (3-2). The study of the various insects associated with forensic investigations. Course will cover the use of insect related evidence in legal investigations, and how that evidence can be collected, analyzed, and used in a court of law. Lectures will emphasize the major aspects of forensic entomology, from calculating post mortem, the different types of data that can be obtained from insects, the effects of the environment on forensic entomology, and other aspects of the filed. Laboratory studies will emphasize taxonomy and identification, as well as collection techniques. Prerequisites: BIOL 1306 Biology for Majors I
BIOL 4420 Special Topics with Laboratory (3-2). A course offering selected topics in biology with laboratory. This course may be repeated if topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 4601 North American Desert Experience (4-4). This field intensive course will immerse students in the fascinating study of desert ecosystems and the interactions between desert organisms and their environments. Special attention will focus on the community ecology of the four recognized deserts of the American Southwest—the Chihuahuan, Sonoran, Mohave, and Great Basin Deserts. Offered in summer sessions only. Several multi-day field trips are required. Prerequisite: BIOL 1306/1106 & BIOL 1307/1107 and either BIOL 4402, BIOL/BIO 4404, BIOL/BIO 4409, or by permission of instructor. Field school fee: $175 – $1800
BIOL 4607 Special Topics Field Studies (4-4). A course offering selected topics in Biology that consist of field work. This course may be repeated if topic varies. Prerequisite: BIOL 1307 – Biology for Majors II. Field school fee: $175 – $1800
BIOL 5100 Individual Studies (1-0). Independent study of selected topics in biology.
BIOL 5101 Graduate Seminar (1-0). Discussion of pertinent topics in biology, with emphasis changing depending upon instructor.
BIOL 5200 Individual Studies (2-0). Independent study of selected topics in biology.
BIOL 5207 Biological Investigations (2-0). A course covering varied topics relevant to current biological studies. May be repeated when topic varies.
BIOL 5301 Cacti and Succulents of the Southwest (2-2). A study of the life cycles, life histories, and environment with special attention to survival and adaption of the cacti and succulents of the Southwest and in particular those in the Trans-Pecos region.
BIOL 5303 Non-Thesis Oral Exam and Preparation (3-0). A short course covering all the major topics and areas of biology, in order to prepare for the final exam for the degree. Students will be expected to review and teach back material including, but not limited to, basic biological concepts such as photosynthesis, cellular respiration, transcription and translation, mitosis and meiosis, and evolution via natural selection. Current relevant topics in biology will also be incorporated into the course. Toward the end of the semester, students will take the final comprehensive exam required for completion of the degree.
BIOL 5305 Techniques of Scientific Research (3-0). Style and format in manuscript, proposal and thesis preparation. Materials and methods of scientific investigation and science education. Orientation to graduate level and professional studies. Required in first semester or at first opportunity thereafter.
BIOL 5307 Special Topics (3-0). A course dealing with selected and timely topics in biology. May be repeated when topic varies.
BIOL 5310 Applied Entomology (3-0). Introduction to principles and theories of insect control strategies. Includes concepts of chemical, cultural, and physical controls, and biological and integrated pest management. Prerequisite: General Entomology or equivalent.
BIOL 5311 Evolution (3-0). The study of the theory and current concepts of evolution, including: natural selection, gene flow, founder effect, and speciation.
BIOL 5312 Graduate Research (0-9). Qualified students may conduct individual research under the direction and supervision of the staff. May be repeated once when topic varies.
BIOL 5316 Biostatistical Analysis I (2-2). An introduction to statistical concepts and models applied to agricultural and biological systems. The course introduces the scientific method, inferential theory, data types, descriptive statistics, goodness of fit, contingency tables, the normal distribution and one- and two-sample hypothesis testing. Emphasis will be placed on data analysis and interpretation using computer statistical applications. Required for MS Thesis Plan I option. Offered Fall.
BIOL 5317 Biostatistical Analysis II (2-2). An advanced course in statistical concepts and models applied to agricultural and biological systems. The course will cover experimental designs, paired-sample hypotheses, multi-sample hypotheses (ANOVA), multiple comparisons, factorial and nested ANOVA, data transformations, linear regression and correlation, multiple regression and correlation, polynomial regression and the binomial distribution. Emphasis will be placed on data analysis and interpretation using computer statistical applications. Offered Spring.
BIOL 5318 Toxic and Medicinal Plants (3-0). A graduate-level survey of toxic and medicinal plants, including their identification & classification, clinical signs of intoxication, toxic principle, mechanism of action, and treatment (if any). Emphasis is on toxic plants of West Texas and major medicinal plants of historical significance.
BIOL 5407 Special Topics with Laboratory (3-2). A course dealing with selected and timely topics in biology with laboratory. This course may be repeated if topic varies. Lab fee: $8
BIOL 5601 Field Botany (3-6). Studies of plants in their natural environments including aspects such as: taxonomy; morphology; ecology; biogeography; and/or phylogeny. Revolving emphasis (e.g., woody plants, monocots, or composites) and a flexible program according to demand. Offered in summer session, several field trips including multi-day. Field school fee: $175 – $1800
BIOL 5602 Field Zoology (3-6). A course devoted primarily to acquainting the student with animal life in its natural habitat. Collecting, museum techniques, systematic and ecological implications will be stressed. Field school fee: $175 – $1800
BIOL 5607 Special Topics Graduate Field Studies (3-6). A course offering selected topics in biology that consist of field work. This course may be repeated if topic varies. Field school fee: $175 – $1800
BIOL 6040 Thesis Research (0-18). The student will enroll in this course after earning credit for BIOL 6301 (Thesis Prospectus), each semester or summer term in which assistance is provided by Committee members or when use of the library or other research facilities of Sul Ross State University is made. The course is variable for 1 to 9 credit hours, and may be repeated with approval of advisor. Credit hours earned may not be applied towards the 30 or 36 hours required for the degree. Prerequisites: Master of Science students that have been admitted to candidacy, including earned credit for Thesis Prospectus.
BIOL 6301 Thesis Prospectus (0-6). Satisfactory completion of this course requires an acceptable prospectus presented to the Graduate Committee. The student will normally register for this class no earlier than the second semester of graduate study. The prospectus is expected to be completed promptly, as this course may not be taken more than two long semesters.
BIOL 6302 Thesis Defense (0-6). The student will enroll in this course at the time of the defense and after earning credit for BIOL 6301 (Thesis Prospectus). Satisfactory completion of this course will result in the completed thesis presented to the Graduate Committee, accepted by the Dean of the School, the Dean of the Graduate School, and filed in the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Prerequisite: BIOL 6301.
BIOL 6602 Non-Thesis Preparation and Defense (4-1). A course covering all the major topics and areas of biology, in order to prepare for the final exam for the degree. Students will be expected to review and teach back material including, but not limited to, basic biological concepts such as photosynthesis, cellular respiration, transcription and translation, mitosis and meiosis, and evolution via natural selection. Current relevant topics in biology will also be incorporated into the course. Toward the end of the semester, students will take the final comprehensive exam required for completion of the degree.