Saint Anselm College

Biology Course Descriptions

General Biology (BI 01-02)
This elective course satisfies the science requirement of non-majors. BI 01 is given during the first semester. It is a survey of the structure and biochemistry of cells, the form and function of plants and animals, human organ systems, and topics in genetics. BI 02 is given during the second semester. It covers topics in behavior, evolution, and ecology. Students preparing for graduate programs in the health care field are strongly encouraged to take BI 03 and BI 04.

For an updated version of the syllabus, grading, policies, and other important information, see the course web pages below.

Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory each week for the Fall and Spring semesters. Four credits, each semester.

General Biology (BI 03-04)
A study of the general principles of cell and organismal life, including a survey of structure and function in representatives of the major groups in the five kingdoms. Basic biochemistry, genetics and ecology are also treated. For Biology majors. Students preparing for graduate programs in the health care field are strongly encouraged to take this two-semester sequence.

For an updated version of the syllabus, grading, policies, and other important information, see the course web pages below.

Three hours of lecture, one hour of recitation and three hours of laboratory each week for Fall and Spring semesters. Five credits, each semester.

Biosphere At Risk (BI 05)
A study of significant global biological and ecological processes and their relation to human existence now and in the future. Topics may vary from year to year. Required for Environmental Science majors and open to non-science majors, the course does not satisfy the College's laboratory science requirement.

Elementary Biochemistry (BI 07)
Designed primarily to serve the needs of students enrolled in the College's Nursing Program, the course seeks to develop an understanding of and appreciation for the chemical basis of life. Fundamental principles of general, organic, and biological chemistry are covered with a particular emphasis on clinical applications. Adequate preparation for this course includes a working knowledge of High School level algebra.

Three hours of lecture, one hour of recitation, and two hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Five credits, Fall Semester.

Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy (BI 15-16)
Emphasis is placed on the evolution of the vertebrates, and the structure, and embryonic development of vertebrate organ systems. Laboratory work includes dissection of marine, aquatic, and terrestrial vertebrate forms.

Two hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory each week for two semesters. Four credits, each semester. Instructor (both semesters):

Microbiology (BI 17)
An introductory course, focusing on the general principles underlying the life processes of microorganisms. Topics include microbial cell structure, metabolism, genetics, and growth characteristics. Emphasis is given to disease-causing (pathogenic) microorganisms and the various systems of defense employed by the human host. Previous experience of Elementary Biochemistry is recommended.

Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Spring Semester.

Aquatic Ecology (BI 19)
An introduction to the ecology of freshwater systems including rivers and streams, and wetlands. Students will be exposed to both theoretical and practical concepts of freshwater ecology. Topics include biotic communities (macrophytes, zooplankton, benthic macroinvertebrates, fish and other vertebrates), species interactions, biodiversity issues, biotic indices and biomonitoring, pollution, habitat degradation, and conservation. This course has a strong field component and is designed primarily for biology, environmental science, and natural science majors. The equivalent of three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Fall Semester.

Ecology (BI 20)
The lectures consider the relations between organisms and the physical and biological factors affecting, and affected by, them. These relations are explored at the individual, population, and community / ecosystem levels within an evolutionary context. In the laboratory, current ecological theories are tested by statistical analysis of data collected in the field. Evolutionary Biology and Invertebrate Zoology are recommended as preparation for the course.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Fall Semester. Prerequisite: Biostatistics (BI 45)

Independent Research (BI 21-22)
Individualized research experience in the biological sciences, under the direction of a science faculty member, including literature searching, hypothesis development and testing, graphical and statistical analysis, and oral and written presentation. Open only to upper-class students who have applied for and been admitted into a position in a science faculty's research laboratory. Two sequential semesters must be taken to earn credit.

Cell and Tissue Culture (BI 23)
The theory and techniques of cell and tissue culture. The application of culture methods to genetic analyses, virus culture, cancer research, and plant propagation is stressed. Biology of Microorganisms is recommended as preparation for the course. Note: This course will not be offered in Spring 2003.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits. Spring Semester.

Developmental Biology (BI 24)
A lecture, seminar and laboratory study of embryonic development, including cellular differentiation, molecular control and gene regulation. The anatomy, physiology and genetics of developmental processes from gametogenesis to senescence, with emphasis on early embryonic life, will be studied. Laboratory work will included anatomical observation, experimental intervention and biochemical testing.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Fall Semester.

Evolutionary Biology (BI 25)
This course focuses on topics at the microevolutionary level such as the agents of evolutionary change leading to speciation and isolating mechanisms between species. It also addresses macroevolution, history of life on earth, systematics and biogeography. Laboratories will reinforce concepts presented in lecture. See Dr. Pitocchelli's portion of his home page for an updated version of the syllabus and other important information about the course.

For an updated version of the syllabus, grading, policies, and other important information, see the course web pages below.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Spring Semester. Prerequisite: Biostatistics.

Genetics (BI 27)
An introductory course, focusing on the molecular biology of gene expression. Topics include a brief review of classical genetics, structure-function of DNA, and the regulation of gene expression in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The laboratory is composed of a series of experiments utilizing current molecular biology techniques including PCR, construction of recombinant DNA molecules, gel electrophoresis and Southern analysis.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Fall Semester.

Conservation Biology (BI 28)
A focus on biological diversity and the processes that have led to species rarity and extinction. Topics include speciation theory, genetic variation, populations, species interactions, disturbance regimes, invasive species, and community and ecosystem level conservation and restoration. Emphasis on scientifically sound strategies for saving endangered species in bother terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Plants and invertebrates as well as vertebrates are considered.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Fall Semester.

Environmental Biology of Plants (BI 29)
An introductory lecture and laboratory course in general plant biology that emphasizes plant ecology and evolution. Lecture will focus on plant life history strategies and physiological and anatomical adaptations that enable plants to survive under conditions of environmental stress. In laboratory, students will explore basic plant anatomy and physiology, as well as growth, competition and plant-animal interactions.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits. Spring Semester.

Principles of Biotechnology (BI 30)
Biotechnology employs plant cells, animal cells, and microorganisms to manufacture goods and medicines, as well as to generate products and procedures that promise to improve the quality and health of livestock, agricultural crops, and the environment at large. It is at the forefront of present-day applied sciences. This course will emphasize class discussion of current literature on this subject and practical laboratory experience in the methodologies of this new and evolving field, as well as a treatment of its social and ethical implications. This course will not be offered in the 2003-2004 academic year.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four Credits. Special offering.

Human Anatomy and Physiology (BI 31-32)
The structure and function of human cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems are considered. The interdependence of these systems is emphasized. Laboratory work includes the dissection of a typical mammal and completion of classical experiments of physiology. High school biology is recommended as preparation for the course.

For an updated version of the syllabus, grading, policies, and other important information, see the course web pages below.

Three hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory each week for two semesters. Five credits, each semester.

Cell Biology (BI 33)
A review of the anatomy and physiology of the fundamental unit of life. The laboratory will investigate the structure and vital processes of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, with particular attention to membranes, organelles, and macromolecules.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Spring Semester.

Animal Physiology (BI 34)
The function of the organs and organ systems of animals. Topics include feeding and digestion, circulation, gas transport, water balance and aspects of endocrinology. Basic physiological techniques and methods will be examined in laboratory sessions.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Spring Semester.

Biochemistry (BI 36)
A review of the structure and function of biologically important molecules and their role in the catabolic and anabolic processes of the cell. The laboratory sessions stress standard procedures useful in a wide range of experimental situations. Organic chemistry is recommended as preparation for the course.

Three hours of lecture, one hour of recitation, and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Five credits, Fall Semester.

Vertebrate Zoology (BI 37)
A representative overview of vertebrate biology emphasizing the evolution and ecology of vertebrates. Using an organismal approach, the lectures include aspects of the physiology, morphology, behavior, and natural history of vertebrates. Laboratory and field work focus on classification and identification.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Fall Semester.

Invertebrate Zoology (BI 38)
A survey of representative invertebrate phyla, based on current taxonomic classification and phylogenetic organization. Aspects of the anatomy, physiology, behavior, and ecology of these animals are discussed as they relate to habitat, lifestyle, and evolution. The laboratory portion is an introduction to the form and function of this group, and includes dissections, prepared slides, demonstrations, and observations of live animals.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits, Fall Semester.

This course services the needs of junior biochemistry majors foremost, but also those of upper level biology and chemistry majors possessing an interest in biochemistry and molecular biology. The current design of the course includes in-depth analysis of protein structure-function relationships and an up-to-date look at the subject of cancer biochemistry. Laboratory exercises emphasize techniques applied to the study of rare proteins.

Three hours of lecture, one hour of recitation, and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Five credits, Spring Semester.

Nutrition (Bio 44)
A theoretical and practical study of human nutrition. This course will examine the basic scientific principles of healthy nutrition, including: a survey of the major macromolecules and their affects on each of the major body systems, nutrient requirements throughout the life cycle, dietary assessment techniques, factors affecting food habits, herbs in health promotion, food safety, and biotechnology. A basic understanding of general biology and chemistry and of human anatomy and physiology is recommended as preparation for the course.

Three hours of lecture each week for one semester.
Three Credits. Fall semester.

Biostatistics (BI 45)
An introduction to the most frequently used parametric and non-parametric techniques for analyzing biological data. The design of experiments, methods of sampling, and the presentation of data will also be covered. Assignments will involve manual calculations and use of statistical software on the Macintosh computer. Required for Biology and Environmental Science Majors.

For an updated version of the syllabus, grading, policies, and other important information, see the course web pages below.

Three hours of lecture each week for one semester. Three credits. Offered both Fall and Spring Semester.

Pharmacology (BI 46)
A theoretical and practical study of the biochemistry and physiology of drugs. Principles and concepts of drug action are developed using specific examples of drugs affecting each of the major body systems. A basic understanding of general, organic, and biological chemistry and of human anatomy and physiology is recommended as preparation for the course.

Three hours of lecture each week for one semester. Three credits. Spring Semester.

Ornithology (BI 47)
This course focuses on identification and biology of birds of the Northeastern United States. Field laboratories constitute an important part of the course. Offered in response to sufficient interest.

The equivalent of three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week. Offered only in the first Summer Session. Four credits.

Special Topics in Biology (BI 49)
This course will consist of a detailed investigation of a topic not covered in other biology department offerings. The topic will be chosen by a student in consultation with a faculty member who will facilitate the learning process. The topic must be relevant to current thought in the biological sciences and be accessible to undergraduate students. The experience is equal to one academic course.

Any semester, Four Credits. Prerequisite: Permission of the Department Chairperson is required.

Washington Internship (BI 50)
After application to and acceptance by the Washington Center, students are placed in a relevant field experience with scientific organizations in the greater Washington, D.C. area. Selection for this typically Fall semester program is completed in the preceding spring semester. The experience is equivalent to five academic courses.

Internship (BI 51-52)
Qualified students may be offered the opportunity to develop, with the aid of the chairperson of the department, an internship experience relevant to their academic needs. Assessment will be based on a portfolio that includes the agency's outcome assessment, the student's objective and subjective journal, and a term paper in an allied area to the internship.

The experience is typically the equivalent of one or two academic courses. Students have participated in internships with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve, the Piscataquog Watershed Association, the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Optima Health, New Hampshire Custom Brewers, The University of New Hampshire Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the Southern Maine Regional Genetics Service program, the Foundation for Blood Research, Covino Environmental Associates, Catholic Medical Center, members of the Congress of the United States, and the Fitness Network, among many other organizations.