Biology Undergraduate Courses

Some courses may not be offered every year. Check with the college or department office for current information about when specific courses are offered.  

 

For course syllabi, see the departmental website.

 

BIO  100 PRINCIPLES OF BIOLOGY       (3)

Introduces basic principles and concepts of biology. Methods of scientific inquiry and behavior of matter and energy in biological systems are explored. Not available for credit in the major or minor. SAS

 

BIO  100L PRINCIPLES OF BIOLOGY LAB      (1)

Investigates examples of life, with focus on our understanding of evolution, environment, heredity, body form, and function. Not available for credit in the major or minor. 1 hr. lab. Corequisite: BIO 100. LAB

 

BIO  171 SKILLS FOR SUCCESS IN SCIENCE       (2)

Tools and strategies for succeeding in the university culture and introductory science courses.  Designed for students entering science courses of intellectual inquiry.  In-depth study of a substantive problem.

 

BIO  181 UNITY OF LIFE I:  LIFE OF THE CELL       (3)

Introductory course for biology majors. Emphasizes the unifying molecular and cellular principles of all life on earth. 3 hrs. lecture.  Prerequisites: high school algebra, biology, and chemistry. Corequisite:  BIO 181L SAS

 

BIO  181H UNITY OF LIFE I:  LIFE OF THE CELL - HONORS       (3)

Introductory course for biology majors. Emphasizes the unifying molecular and cellular principles of all life on earth. 3 hrs. lecture.  Prerequisites: high school algebra, biology, and chemistry. Prerequisite: Honors Student Group and Corequisite:  BIO 181L

 

BIO  181L UNITY OF LIFE I LABORATORY      (1)

Introduces experimental techniques in cellular and molecular biological sciences. Prerequisite or Corequisite: BIO 181 or BIO 181H LAB

 

BIO  181R UNITY OF LIFE I RECITATION      (1)

Optional recitation section covering problem-solving techniques in biology. Not available for credit in the major or minor. Pass-fail only. Corequisite: BIO 181 or BIO 181H

 

BIO  182 UNITY OF LIFE II: LIVES OF MULTICELLULAR ORGANISMS       (4)

Introductory course for biology majors. Emphasizes the unifying organismal principles of life on earth. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: BIO 181 or BIO 181H

 

BIO  182H UNITY OF LIFE II: LIVES OF MULTICELLULAR ORGANISMS       (4)

Introductory course for biology majors.  Emphasizes the unifying organismal principles of life on earth.  3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab. Prerequisite: Honors Student Group

 

BIO  182R UNITY OF LIFE II RECITATION      (1)

Optional recitation section covering problem-solving techniques in biology. Not available for credit in the major or minor. Pass-fail only. Corequisite: BIO 182

 

BIO  198 MODULAR LEARNING EXPERIENCE     (1-3)

Designed for students in the biomedical professions.  Practicing health care professionals will discuss their careers and health care issues in the United States.  Approximately 12 health care topics will be covered.  Letter grade only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units, as topics change.

 

BIO  199 MODULAR LEARNING EXPERIENCE     (1-3)

Foundations of intellectual inquiry. In-depth study of a substantive problem.  Letter grade only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units.

 

BIO  201 HUMAN ANATOMY/PHYSIOLOGY I       (4)

Integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, sensory, and endocrine systems in health and disease. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite: BIO 181 or BIO 181H

 

BIO  201R HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY I RECITATION      (1)

Optional recitation section to improve vocabulary, problem-solving, and study skills for Human Anatomy & Physiology I.  Not available for credit in the major or minor.  Pass-fail only. Prerequisite:  BIO 181 or BIO 181H  Corequisite:  BIO 201

 

BIO  202 HUMAN ANATOMY/PHYSIOLOGY II       (4)

Body fluid, cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems in health and disease. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite: BIO 201

 

BIO  202R HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY II RECITATION      (1)

Optional recitation section to improve vocabulary, problem-solving, and study skills for Human Anatomy & Physiology II.  Not available for credit in the major or minor.  Pass-fail only. Prerequisite:  BIO 201  Corequisite:  BIO 202

 

BIO  205 MICROBIOLOGY       (4)

Fundamental microbiology emphasizing structure and function of organisms, aspects of microbial diversity, pathogenic microorganisms, disease mechanisms and immune response.  For students majoring in microbiology and those in the health professions.  3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Recommended:  CHM 130 or CHM 151.  Prerequisite:  BIO 181 or 181H and Corequisite:  BIO 305W LAB

 

BIO  221 LOWER INVERTEBRATES       (4)

Surveys the "lower" invertebrate phyla using selected taxa to illustrate concepts in evolution, ecology, and behavior. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  222 HIGHER INVERTEBRATES       (4)

Surveys the "higher" invertebrate phyla using selected taxa to illustrate concepts in evolution, ecology, and behavior. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  223 VERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY       (4)

Evolution, systematics, distribution, ecology, and primary adaptations of the major vertebrate groups. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  227 INTERTIDAL INVERTEBRATES      (1)

Surveys invertebrate diversity in the northern Gulf of California, with emphasis on common living and fossil species. Includes a five-day field trip to Puerto Penasco, Mexico.  Instructor's Consent.  Prerequisite: BIO 221 or BIO 222

 

BIO  284 BOTANY       (4)

Surveys botanical principles from an evolutionary perspective, including cell biology, inheritance, development, ecological roles, reproduction, and classification.  3 hrs. lecture and 3 hrs. lab.  Letter grade only.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  284H BOTANY - HONORS       (4)

Surveys botanical principles from an evolutionary perspective, including cell biology, inheritance, development, ecological roles, reproduction, and classification.  3 hrs. lecture and 3 hrs. lab.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite: BIO 181 and BIO 182 and Honors Student Group

 

BIO  298 MODULAR LEARNING EXPERIENCE     (1-3)

In-depth study of an aspect, concept, or problem.  Letter grade only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units.

 

BIO  299 MODULAR LEARNING EXPERIENCE     (1-3)

In-depth study of an aspect, concept, or problem.  Letter grade only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units.

 

BIO  299H MODULAR LEARNING EXPERIENCE - HONORS     (1-3)

In-depth study of an aspect, concept, or problem.  Letter grade only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units. Prerequisite: Honors Student Group

 

BIO  300 HUMAN BIOLOGY      (1)

Series of independent mini-courses dealing with aspects of biology and human conditions.  Letter grade only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 10 units. SAS

 

BIO  301 SCIENCE, RELIGION & REALITY       (3)

Important topics in today's world showing significant differences of opinion or beliefs contrasting with scientific evidence or contemporary practice, such as life's origin, beginning of an individual, sexual orientation, death.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite:  Junior Status or higher

 

BIO  302 RELEVANCE OF SCIENCE       (3)

Crucial challenges, problems, or situations in today's world for which science gives us insight into meeting, solving or understanding, such as global warming, using reclaimed water, energy crisis, epidemics, obesity.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite:  Junior Status or higher

 

BIO  305W MICROBIOLOGY WRITING LAB      (1)

Writing component for BIO 205 and 220 laboratories.  Concurrent enrollment in either BIO 205 or BIO 220  Prerequisite: BIO 181 or BIO 181H JWRT

 

BIO  310 SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS IN HUMAN BIOLOGY       (3)

Systems and processes of the human body integrated with an understanding of health and disease. Prerequisite: high school biology or chemistry. Not available for credit in the major or minor. SAS

 

BIO  320 GENERAL PATHOLOGY       (3)

Surveys disease processes affecting body systems; cell death and inflammation; emphasizes altered physiological mechanisms in cells and organ systems.  Prerequisite: BIO 202 and BIO 205 Prerequisite: BIO 202 and BIO 205

 

BIO  322 ENTOMOLOGY       (4)

Classification, identification, ecology, physiology, and economic importance of insects. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  326 ECOLOGY       (3)

Introduces ecological principles, including the distribution and abundance of organisms, population dynamics, community organization, energy flow, and nutrient cycling.  Cross-listed with ENV 326.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H and (BIO 182 or ENV 230)

 

BIO  326LW ECOLOGY LAB      (1)

Experimental analysis of plant and animal interactions within ecosystems, including community dynamics, ecological processes, and biotic inventories.  Fulfills Junior-Level Writing Requirement.  Prerequisite or Corequisite: BIO 326 JWRT

 

BIO  331 DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY       (4)

Principles of development in amphibians, birds, and mammals. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Recommended: BIO 424 or BIO 201 and 202.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182 Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  332 HISTOLOGY       (2)

Structure of tissues and organs with special emphasis on humans. 1 hr. lecture, one 3-hr. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  340 GENETICS AND EVOLUTION       (3)

Fundamental concepts of inheritance, including genetic and chromosomal character determination, and natural selection leading to population changes and speciation.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182 Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  343 GENETICS LAB      (1)

Optional lab in the study of various modes of inheritance in plants and animals with special emphasis on humans. 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite or Corequisite: BIO 340

 

BIO  344 CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY       (3)

Organization and function of biological molecules, cell diversity, cell structure and function, and cell interaction and differentiation.  recommended: BIO 340.  Prerequisite: BIO182 and BIO305W and CHM 152L

 

BIO  345 APPLIED BOTANY       (3)

Applies plant science principles to all aspects of growing plants, including elements of soil science, pathology, physiology entomology, landscaping, orchard, garden, and greenhouse science.  3 hrs. lecture.  Letter grade only.

 

BIO  346 ADVANCED MICROBIOLOGY       (3)

Detailed examination of advanced microbiological concepts and current applications.  Topics include cell structure and function, growth and culturing approaches, energy generation, molecular and metabolic diversity, and extremophiles. Prerequisite:  CHM 151 and BIO 205

 

BIO  349L MOLECULAR TECHNIQUES       (3)

Teaches how to perform and interpret basic molecular techniques including Southern and Northern blots, gene cloning, PCR, protein purification, and SDS-PAGE. 9 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: BIO 344

 

BIO  350 MOLECULAR GENETICS       (3)

Studies genetics from a molecular and microbial perspective; gene structure, expression, control, mutation, and recombination; advances in genetic engineering.  Prerequisite: BIO 181 and BIO 182 and (CHM 230 and CHM 230L) or (CHM 235 and CHM 238) or CHM 360

 

BIO  366 BEHAVIOR OF ANIMALS       (3)

Surveys the theories and reasons that explain the behavior of animals. SAS

 

BIO  369 ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY       (4)

Microorganisms in the air, food, soil, and water, and their interaction with the environment. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: BIO 205

 

BIO  372 REVOLUTIONARY THOUGHT IN BIOLOGY       (3)

Biological theories, such as those on the origin of life, evolution, and extinction; the immune response; sex; cancer; and behavior. SAS

 

BIO  373 MARINE BIOLOGY       (3)

Behavior, ecology, biogeography, and evolution of marine organisms relative to the physics and geology of the ocean.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  374 ECONOMIC BOTANY       (3)

Surveys plants used by humans including plant parts or products used and their geographic origin and distribution. 2 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  375 INFECTIOUS DISEASE       (3)

This course will cover the challenge presented by infectious microorganisms, how the host responds to the challenge, and what challenges lie ahead for both humans and microbes. Prerequisite:  CHM 151 and (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 205

 

BIO  376 INDUSTRIAL MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY       (4)

Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology explores how microorganisms are used to make medicines, foods, and energy, and to genetically engineer plants and animals. Prerequisite:  CHM 151 and BIO 205

 

BIO  389 COOPERATIVE EDUCATION       (1-12)

Individualized preplanned cooperative employment experience related to your field of study or career objectives.  Fee required.  Pass-fail only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 12 units.

 

BIO  398 MODULAR LEARNING EXPERIENCE     (1-3)

In-depth study of an aspect, concept, or problem.  Letter grade only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units.

 

BIO  399 MODULAR LEARNING EXPERIENCE     (1-3)

In-depth study of an aspect, concept, or problem within a program of study.  Letter grade only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units.

 

BIO  401C IMMUNOBIOLOGY       (4)

Basic aspects of immunobiology emphasizing immune response, antibody structure and reactions with antigens, immunological specificity, and immunological diseases. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab. recommended: CHM 360.  Prerequisite: BIO 205 and [(CHM 230 and 230L) or (CHM 235 and 238)] CAP

 

BIO  408 FIELDWORK EXPERIENCE       (1-12)

Supervised field experience in an appropriate agency or organization. Pass-fail only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 12 units.

 

BIO  409 SOIL AND GROUNDWATER BIOREMEDIATION       (3)

Fundamental concepts of bioremediation, including discussion of the following topics:  degradation kinetics, bioaugmentation, metal biotransformation, molecular approaches to bioremediation, chlorinated solvents, phytoremediation, petroleum hydrocarbons, and natural attenuation.  Cross-listed with ENV 409.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite:  CHM 151 and CHM 152 and BIO 205

 

BIO  410 PHYCOLOGY       (3)

Systematics, structure, reproduction, ecology, and methods of collecting algae; culture and experimental study of selected algae species. Field trips, 2 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  411 MYCOLOGY       (3)

Systematics, physiology, ecology, and medical importance of fungi and related forms; field identification and experimental studies. 2 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  414 NATIVE PLANTS OF ARIZONA       (3)

Field-oriented course emphasizing the recognition of much of the native and naturalized flora of Arizona.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  415 PLANT TAXONOMY       (4)

Introduces the principles of plant classification; a survey of flowering plant families in northern Arizona; collection, identification, and preservation of wild flowers and grasses. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: BIO 182 and BIO 182L and (BIO 284 or BIO 345 or BIO 374 or BIO 410 or BIO 411 or BIO 414 or BIO 426C or BIO 431)

 

BIO  424 COMPARATIVE VERTEBRATE ANATOMY       (4)

Interpretation of vertebrate structure with emphasis on phylogeny and function. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: BIO 340

 

BIO  425C ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY       (3)

Function and integration of animal tissues, organs, and organ systems in the maintenance of homeostasis.  Prerequisite: BIO 344 and CHM 130 and CHM 151L CAP

 

BIO  425L ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY LAB      (1)

Lab experience in the study of animal tissues, organs, and organ systems. 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite or Corequisite: BIO 425C

 

BIO  426C PLANT PHYSIOLOGY       (3)

Analyzes plant functions, including their systems, cellular mechanisms, and integration. Recommended: CHM 360.  Prerequisite: BIO 344 and (CHM 152 or CHM 230) and (BIO 284 or BIO 345 or BIO 374 or BIO 410 or BIO 411 or BIO 414 or BIO 426C or BIO 431) CAP

 

BIO  426L PLANT PHYSIOLOGY LAB      (1)

Lab exercises illustrating plant physiological functions. 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite or Corequisite: BIO 426C

 

BIO  430C SCIENCE TEACHING METHODS        (2-3)

Introduces lab and classroom procedures, techniques, and curricula appropriate for the secondary school.  Prerequisite: SCI 308 and SCI 351 and SCI 352 CAP

 

BIO  431 PLANT MORPHOLOGY       (3)

Comparative functional morphology, ecology, and evolutionary relationships of algae, fungi, bryophytes, and vascular plants; field and lab exercises include fossil and living plants. 2 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182

 

BIO  435C EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY       (3)

Evolution of organisms:  including variation, natural selection, adaptation, population genetics, speciation, patterns and rates of evolution, phylogenetics, and the fossil record.  Prerequisite: BIO 340 CAP

 

BIO  440 CELL BIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR GENETICS       (3)

Cell biology including functions of macromolecules; organelle structure and function; membrane transport; and the structure, function, and action of genes.  Prerequisite: BIO344 and BIO 350, CHM 230 and CHM 230L and CHM 360 or CHM 460 Corequisite: BIO 440L

 

BIO  440L CELL BIOLOGY LAB       (2)

Studies cell structure and function using modern molecular and genetic techniques. 6 hrs. lab. Instructor's Consent.  Corequisite: BIO 440.

 

BIO  441 CONSERVATION BIOLOGY       (3)

Scientific basis for conserving and managing biological diversity, emphasizing applications of ecology, drawing on other scientific disciplines, and integrating public policy and sociological issues.  Cross-listed as ENV 440.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite: BIO 326 or FOR 313

 

BIO  441L CONSERVATION BIOLOGY LABORATORY      (1)

Combines class field studies and independent research investigating the scientific basis for conserving and managing biological diversity.  Requires several extended weekend field trips.  Cross-listed with ENV 440L.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite: BIO 326 or FOR 313 and Corequisite: BIO 441

 

BIO  444C HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY       (4)

Physiology of major body systems studied at the metabolic, cellular, and systemic levels, emphasizing homeostatic mechanisms. 4 hrs. lecture.  Prerequisite: (BIO 202 or 424 or 425 or 425C) and (CHM 360 or 461) and (PHY 111 or 161 or 107) CAP

 

BIO  466 LEGISLATIVE INTERNSHIP       (1-12)

Supervised internship in the Arizona Legislature during spring semester. Students are selected on a competitive basis, and you must apply during the fall semester. (To be eligible, you must be a candidate for a bachelor's degree and have completed all lower-division requirements and attained senior status at the end of the fall semester preceding the internship.) Registration is handled by the associate provost for academic administration after the legislature has made its final selection. Pass-fail only.  May be repeated for a maximum of 12 units; not the same subject.

 

BIO  471 MICROBIAL ECOLOGY       (3)

Population, community, and ecosystem ecology of microorganisms emphasizing interactions with plants and animals and the roles of microorganisms in ecosystem processes. Coconvenes with BIO 578. Crosslisted as ENV 471 and ENV 571.  Prerequisite: BIO 205  Letter grade only. 1

 

BIO  471C MICROBIAL ECOLOGY       (3)

Population, community, and ecosystem ecology of microorganisms emphasizing interactions with plants and animals and the roles of microorganisms in ecosystem processes.  Letter grade only. Prerequisite:  BIO 205 CAP

 

BIO  472C REVOLUTIONARY THOUGHT IN BIOLOGY       (3)

Biological theories, such as those on the origin of life, evolution, and extinction; the immune response; sex; cancer; and behavior.  This is a capstone course only for the BAILS degree with an emphasis in Biology.  In this enhanced course, students will be required to write a capstone paper reflecting on the essential skills that were learned in liberal studies and how they were incorporated in their emphasis.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 or BIO 181H) and BIO 182 CAP

 

BIO  475 PARASITOLOGY       (4)

Parasites and their life cycles, host injuries, treatment, means of control, and prevention of infection. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: Junior Status

 

BIO  477 FISH MANAGEMENT       (3)

Introduces theory and practice of commercial and sport fish management. Topics include evolution and management of wild and stocked populations; field, lab, and hatchery techniques; aquaculture; exotic species; politics and economic management. 2 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 223 or BIO 525) and BIO 425C or (BIO 425 & BIO 425L) Prerequisite: (BIO 223 or BIO 525) and BIO 425C or (BIO 425 & BIO 425L)

 

BIO  478 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT       (3)

Surveys concepts and practices employed in the study and management of terrestrial wildlife. Topics include values, habitat requirements, movements, behavior, and dynamics of wildlife populations and the techniques used to ensure their continued survival. 2 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: BIO 326 and one of  (BIO 223 or BIO 527 or BIO 528)

 

BIO  479 ECOSYSTEM ECOLOGY:  CASE STUDIES ON THE COLORADO PLATEAU       (3)

Principles of ecosystem ecology, including the factors controlling ecosystem structure, productivity, nutrient cycling, and energy balance-with examples from the Colorado Plateau and emphasis on global environmental change. Crosslisted as FOR 479. 2 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 181 and BIO 182 and BIO 326 ) or (FOR 313 and FOR 314 and FOR 315 and FOR 316)

 

BIO  485 UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH     (1-6)

Original research under the supervision of a research adviser.  Pass-fail only.  May be repeated for up to 6 units of credit.  Department consent required.

 

BIO  488C MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY       (4)

Medical aspects of host-parasite relationships in bacterial, mycotic, rickettsial, and viral diseases of human. 3 hrs. lecture, 3 hrs. lab.  Prerequisite: (BIO 205 or 220) and BIO 401 and (CHM 230, 230L) or (CHM 235, 235L) CAP

 

BIO  497 INDEPENDENT STUDY     (1-6)

Individualized approach to selected topics by guided reading and critical evaluation.  Pass-fail only.  No repeat limit.  Department consent required.

 

BIO  498 SENIOR SEMINAR     (1-3)

Integrates theory and practice, with emphasis on historical, contemporary, and future issues.  Coconvenes with BIO 698.  Letter grade or pass-fail.  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units.

 

BIO  499 CONTEMPORARY DEVELOPMENTS     (1-3)

Examines recent trends and investigations in a selected area of a particular major field of study.  Letter grade only.  No repeat limit.