Biology at SC State
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- Biology Courses: 100 level; 200 level; 300 level and 400 level
- Biological Science Courses: all
- Environmental Science Minor Courses: all
- Marine Science Courses: all
Biology
B 150. General Zoology. 4(2,4). Animal biology; general princi-ple; morphology; physiology; environmental relations and develop-ment of animals. (F,S)
B 151. Introductory Botany. 4(2,4). Plant biology; general principles; morphology; and physiology of representatives of major groups of plants; environmental relations and development of plants. (F,S)
B 160. Medical Physics Seminar. 1(1,0). A general overview of the state-of-the-art of medical technologies in use in hospitals and clinics designed to inspire students to enter the field of medical physics. Professionals in the field will emphasize future career options in Medical Physics. Guest lectures, and visits to hospitals are two of the main activities that will be part of the course. Prerequisites: None
B 180. Essentials of Medical Physics. 3(3,0). Basic principles in medical physics. Foundation course for theoretical and practical aspects necessary for studying medical physics applications in different areas such as diagnostic imaging, physiological monitoring, and analysis of clinical data. Prerequisite: P 160/NE 160/B 160
Top of PageB 201. Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. 4(2,4). Classification of the vertebrates; comparative anatomy of organs and organ systems; homologies and phylogeny of vertebrate groups; also a detailed study of mammalian anatomy. Prerequisite: Biology 150 and sophomore standing. (F,S)
B 202. Introduction to Vertebrate Physiology. 4(2,4). The nor-mal functioning of the vertebrate body as a whole; the interrelations of various organ systems. Prerequisite: Biology 150 (F,S)
B 204. Genetics. 4(3,3). This course is designed to convey the fundamental principles of genetics that apply to all forms of life from viruses to man. Topics will include the nature of the genetic material, mitosis, meiosis, Mendelian inheritance, transmission of the genetic material, gene regulation, biochemical genetics, and genes in popula-tions. Prerequisites: Biology 150, 151 and sophomore standing. (F,S)
B 205. Introductory Entomology. 4(2,4). Destructive and useful insects. Taxonomic characteristics of orders, suborders, and families of insects; injurious and beneficial insects, their morphology, physiology, metamorphosis, and their control. Prerequisite: Biology 150 and sophomore standing.
B 206. Introductory Systematic Botany. 4(2,4). Identification and classification of representatives of the major plant groups. Prerequisites: Biology 151 and sophomore standing.
B 207. Mammalian Anatomy. 4(2,4). Lectures and demonstra-tions on anatomy as applied to the human body, with special empha-sis on bones, nerves, muscles, and the circulatory system. Dissection of the cat and study of prepared skeletons and models are included in the laboratory work. Designed for nursing students. (F)
B 208. Human Physiology. 4(3,3). Lectures, demonstrations, and experimental work on the functional mechanisms of cells and organ-systems in the human body. Designed for nursing students. Prerequisite: B 207. (S)
B 209. Human Anatomy and Physiology. 4(2,4). Lectures, demonstrations, and experimental work on the anatomical structure and functional mechanism of the human body. Dissection of the cat, study of prepared skeletons and models, and chemical reactions basic to an understanding of normal body function are included in the labo-ratory work. Prerequisites: Designed for Physical Education and Science Education Majors. (F,S)
Top of PageB 301. Vertebrate Histology. 4(2,4). Study and preparation of the principal kinds of tissues of the vertebrate body. Prerequisites: Biology 150 and 202.
B 302. Embryology. 4(3,3). An introduction to animal develop-ment. Lectures include current topics in the development of plant and animal systems. The organogenesis of the vertebrate body is empha-sized. Laboratory work includes the descriptive and experimental embryology of frog and chicken embryos. Prerequisites: Biology 150, 151, and 204.
B 303. Advanced Invertebrate Zoology. 4(2,4). Origin, structure and development of invertebrates, detailed morphology of representa-tives of specific groups; taxonomy and life histories. Prerequisite: Biology 150 and junior standing. (S)
B 304. Plant Morphology. 4(2,4). A survey of the morphology of representative members of the major plant groups. Prerequisite: Biology 151 and junior standing.
B 305. Introductory Microbiology. 4(2,4). This course is designed to acquaint students with the form, structure, reproduction, physiology, metabolism and identification of bacteria, algae, fungi, rickettsiae, protozoa and viruses. Numerous applied aspects are included to convey the variety and significance of microbial activities. Prerequisites: Biology 150 and 151, Chemistry 150 and 151. (F,S)
B 306. Parasitology. 4(2,4). Animal parasites, life cycles, morphology and taxonomy; environmental relations. Prerequisites: Biology 150 and 303, junior standing. (F)
B 307. Evolution. 4(3,1). The course will cover the major features of evolutionary history as revealed by phylogenetic and paleontological studies, with emphasis on the genetic, developmental and ecologi-cal mechanisms of evolutionary change. The topics of adaptation, coevolution, molecular evolution and human evolution will be covered in detail. In addition to current knowledge and understanding, the methods of analysis used to address evolutionary questions will be included. Some familiarity with genetics will be helpful, but not required. (S)
B 310. Plant Physiology. 4(2,4). A one-semester course for biology majors. Students are exposed to vascular plant physiological processes important for plant growth and development. Topics covered include plant cell structure and function, soil-plant interaction, nutrient salt absorption, intra- and inter-cellular movement of mineral salts, photosynthesis and photosynthate translocation, respiration, water relations, and hormonal regulation of plant growth and development. Students are also exposed to the anatomy and anatomical ultrastructures of vascular plants associated with plant physiological processes. Prerequisites: Biology 151 and Chemistry 150 and 151 or concurrent registration therein. (F,S)
B 311. Techniques in Biology. 4(3,3). A general review of the techniques in the various biology disciplines and an introduction to mod-ern advanced techniques. Majors and minors of senior classifications only and consent of the department.
B 312. Research in Biology. 4(0,6). Provides an opportunity for a student to pursue a supervised research problem under the supervi-sion of a staff member. Prerequisite: Majors of senior classification only and consent of the department. (S)
B 322. Introduction to Astrobiology. 3(3,0). Cross-disciplinary introduction with subject matter drawn from astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. Questions regarding the conditions necessary for the origin of terrestrial and extraterrestrial life forms as well as the existence of life elsewhere in the universe will be examined. Prerequisites: Successful completion or concurrent enrollment in either P 252 or P 255 and the approval of the department chair.
Top of PageB 401. Cell Physiology. 4(2,4). The aim of this course is to acquaint the student with the physiology of individual cells. All cells will be studied, but with special emphasis placed on eucaryotic cells. The physiology of the component parts of cells will be studied, with emphasis on structural arrangement and regulatory mechanisms. Special topics such as cell division, membrane permeability, active transport, motility and bioelectrics will be discussed in relation to cellular function. Prerequisite: Biology 202 or Biology 204, Biology 305. (S)
B 402. Scanning Electron Microscopy. 4(2,4). This course is designed to give the student a basic understanding of the physical principles involved in the operation of the scanning electron micro-scope, and of the reasons for the various limitations of the technique. Of practical interest will be the training in microscope alignment, electron photography, printing, developing, and biological or engineering applications. Advanced topics will be covered after mastery of the basic principles. Prerequisites: Senior standing, consent of instructor.
B 403. Ecology. 4(2,4). This course presents students with an understanding of the interactions between organisms and their envi-ronments through units on physiological ecology and evolutionary ecology. An in-depth understanding of population changes is also developed. Throughout the course, ecosystem theory is presented along with ecological energetic. Prerequisite: Biology 150 and 151, junior standing. (F,S)
B 410. Biology Seminar. 1(1,0). A course designed to orient and acquaint the student with current issues and developments in the field of Biology. The content of the course will be taken from up-to-date periodicals and recent research. Attendance at and participation in the seminar are required of all seniors majoring in Biology. (F,S)
Top of PageBiological Science
BSC 150. Biological Science. 3(3,0). The first part of a two-semester course for non-science majors who require a laboratory sci-ence. The primary purpose of the course is to enhance the scientific literacy of students. A detailed study of the fundamental principles of biology such as basic cell biology and chemistry, energy production and use, cellular reproduction, photosynthesis, plant reproduction, and ecology.
BSC 151. Biological Science Laboratory. 1(0,2). A one-semester laboratory course to accompany Biological Science 150. The student will engage in a series of hands-on experience in microscopy, cell structure and function, genetics, interrelationship of organisms and survey of the plant kingdom. Prerequisite: completion or concurrent enrollment in BSC 150. (F,S)
BSC 152. Biological Science. 3(3,0). The second part of a two-semester course for non-science majors who require a laboratory science. The primary purpose of the course is to enhance the scientific literacy of students. A detailed study of important biological concepts including genetics and inheritance is combined with a survey of the animal kingdom and the anatomy and physiology of human organ systems. Prerequisite: Completion of Biological Science 150. (F,S).
BSC 153. Biological Science Laboratory. 1(0,2). A one-semes-ter laboratory course to accompany Biological Science 151. The stu-dent will engage in a series of hands on experiences in taxonomy, survey of the animal kingdom including anatomy and physiology of organ systems. Prerequisite: completion or concurrent enrollment in BSC 151.(F,S)
Top of PageEnvironmental Science Minor
ENV 300. Introduction to Environmental Science 4(3,1). A one semester lecture and laboratory course for students interested in minor concentration in environmental science. The primary purpose of the course is to introduce students to the biological, chemical, polit-ical, economic and cultural factors that affect the environment, and the interaction of these factors with the ecosystem concepts of nature. (S)
ENV 302. Introduction to Biostatistics. 3(3,0). This course will provide students an understanding of fundamental statistical theory, hypothesis testing, and statistical applications for the biological sci-ences. Topics covered will include basic concepts, randomization, distributions, statistical measures, tests of hypotheses, ANOVA, experi-mental design and sampling, correlation and regression, as well as test of significance. (S)
ENV 305. Environmental Health. 3(3,0) This course is designed for students pursuing an environmental science minor or future health professions career. The primary objective of this course is to introduce students to the environmental effects upon human health. The ecological position of human populations within the global ecosys-tem will be presented along with human populations with the local environment. Impacts of natural environmental factors and pollu-tants on human health will be explored including case studies. Subjects to be addressed will include effects of natural carcinogen, ultra-violet light, invertebrate disease vector, epidemiology, ecotoxi-cology, density-dependent disease transmission, food supply health, and water supply quantity and quality.
ENV 306. Land Use Decisions. 4(3,1) A one semester lecture course for students interested in a minor in environmental science. Students will be introduced to zoning regulations, land ownership, and private and public management of land in the United States. The development and the proper use of environmental impact statements are emphasized. (F) Prerequisite: ENV 300 - Introduction to Environmental Science.
ENV 420/520. Environmental Chemistry. 4(2,3) This course will enable students to make informed judgments on environmental issues while providing a basic understanding of chemical principles and practices. Emphasis will be placed on ozone depletion, global warm-ing, air and water pollution and the hazards of radioactivity. The lab-oratory component will introduce water analysis, soil, feed and forage analysis. Prerequisites: ENV 300, C 150,151 and C 152, 153.
ENV 430/530. Waste Management. 4(3,2) An approved one-semester lecture and laboratory course for students interested in minor concentration in environmental science. The course will explore modern waste disposal management strategies. Landfills and hazardous waste management strategies will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on recycling reuse and composting as alternative waste management strategies.
ENV 490. Environmental Engineering Technology. 4(3,1). Students are exposed to environmental engineering principles through standard and cutting edge technologies designed to manage, mitigate or remediate pollutants in soil, water and air. The technologies include wastewater management from domestic and industrial sources, landfills, surface water containment, and remediation of wastes by chemical and biological process, and transport of solid and hazardous wastes. Students obtain familiarity with database management characterization of contaminants, sensors, survey procedures, and State and Federal regulations and permitting.
ENV 491. Soils and Hydrology. 4(3,1). Fundamentals of soils and hydrology essential to environmental science careers are discussed. Topics include soil physical properties that affect transport and reten-tion of pollutants, saturated and unsaturated flow in the soils, drainage, basic aquifer characteristics, erosion and sediment trans-port, stream flow and storm flow dynamics in response to rainfall and watershed features. Fieldwork will emphasize measurements and assessment of vegetative and non-vegetative surfaces, particularly in the riparian zone.
ENV 495. Wetlands and Aquatic Ecology. 4(3,1). Freshwater habitats account for 90% of our nations wetlands. This course will emphasize the vegetation, hydrology, water chemistry, soils, fauna, and management strategies of freshwater ecosystems. Field experiences will include habitat analysis and sampling, limnological sampling, wetland delineation, plant and animal identification, and GIS technology. Appropriate for students interested in parks and recreation, wildlife ecology, fisheries biology, soil science, agriculture, nat-ural resource management, or other field-based careers.
Top of PageMarine Science
MASC 201. Concepts in Marine Science. 4(3,3). This course introduces students to the wide variety of ocean environments and how physical and chemical forces structure them ecologically. Ecosystem theory is presented along with detailed examples of sys-tems ranging from the deep sea to salt marshes. Laboratory activities include coastal field trips as well as training in water chemistry, statistical sampling, and microcomputer applications. Prerequisites: Biology 150 and 151. (F,S)
MASC 202. Biology of Marine Fishes. 4(3,3). This course is designed to teach students basic principles in ichthyology, fish physi-ological adaptations, population dynamics, utilization, and management. Students will be exposed to anatomical parameters, taxonomy, physiological ecology, population sampling, and modeling. Mathematical approaches to fisheries yield will be taught along with microcomputer simulations. Prerequisites: Biology 150 and sophomore standing. (S)
MASC 301. Analysis of Marine Pollution. 4(3,3). This course will expose students to information on the wide variety of pol-lutants affecting our coastal waters and oceans. Students will gain an understanding of different types of pollution ranging from thermal inputs and river flow alterations to nutrient enrichment and chemical contamination. Material will include analytical methods, pollution sources and their impacts upon aquatic and marine ecosystems; and methods of managing pollution. Prerequisites: Biology 150, Chemistry 150 and sophomore standing. (F)
MASC 302. Special Topics in Marine Science. 4(3,3). This course will analyze specific processes of marine ecosystems in detail. Emphasis will be placed upon detailed analytical experiments designed to study selected questions in organism physiology, nutrient flows, pollution toxicity or population dynamics. Individual research projects will be developed. Prerequisites: MASC 201 and junior standing.
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