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Biology Courses


ADVANCED HUMAN NUTRITION BIO 409 BIO (3.00 credits)
Essentials of nutritional biochemistry of macronutrient and micronutrient metabolism from the cellular and molecular level with connections to the level of the whole human organism. Linkages between nutrition, metabolism, and states of disease are examined. Topics include energy metabolic pathways, enzymes, nutrient utilization and transportation. Prerequisites: BIO 152 or BIO 155; CHEM 120. 
ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY I BIO 210 BIO (4.00 credits)
This course is the study of structure and function of the cells, tissues, skin, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems of the human body. The class has three lectures and one two-hour lab per week. The blended online section completes the same lecture material through online coursework, and meets weekly for one, three-hour session consisting of the lab and a one-hour discussion. Prerequisites: BIO 155 or BIO 151-BIO 152 or BIO 181-BIO 182.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II BIO 211 BIO (4.00 credits)
This course is the study of structure and function of the endocrine, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, urinary, and reproductive systems of the human body. The class has three lectures and one two-hour lab per week. The blended online section completes the same lecture material through online coursework, and meets weekly for one, three-hour session consisting of the lab and a one-hour discussion. Prerequisites: Successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 210; or consent of instructor.
ANIMAL BEHAVIOR BIO 430 S BIO (4.00 credits)
The study of animal behavior from an evolutionary perspective. Lecture explores theory and examples, labs develop an experimental approach to understanding how and why animals (including humans!) do what they do. Topics include communication, mating behavior, parental care, foraging, territoriality, and social behavior. Prerequisites: BIO 151, BIO 181, BIO 152, or BIO 182, or consent of the instructor.
ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY BIO 425 BIO (3.00 credits)
How do different kinds of animals survive and thrive within their home environments? Some species have extraordinary adaptations that allow them to function in difficult circumstances; others are currently challenged by environmental change. Animal Physiology is intended for a broad spectrum of life-science majors who are interested in how animals work and how they interact with the world outside of their bodies. Prerequisites: Successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 151-BIO 152, BIO 181-BIO 182, or equivalent; successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in BIO 353 is recommended.
BIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY BIO 445 V BIO (4.00 credits)
This course examines the relationship between the functions of the central nervous system and behavior. Topics include basic structure and function of brain cells, and the physiological mechanisms of sensory perception, motor coordination, sleep, memory, language, aggression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and depression.   Prerequisites: BIO 151 or BIO 155 or BIO 181, Junior or Senior status
BIOLOGY ASSESSMENT BIO 499 BIO (0.00 credits)
Students registered for the course must complete the Educational Testing Exam during finals week, which is the only time this class meets during the semester. This course will assess biology knowledge for students who are majoring in Broad Field Natural Science (Biology concentration), Cytotechnology, and Broad Field Science Teaching (Life and Environmental Studies including Biology and Environmental Science concentration). Prerequisites: None.
BIOLOGY EXCURSIONS BIO 292 BIO (1.00 credits)
Science learning experiences occur in the classroom, in the laboratory, and in the field. In this experience-based course, students discover and experience facts, concepts, and laws of science for themselves, much as scientists do in their professional lives. Experiences that extend from the classroom into the field allow students to explore, observe, and investigate things in the natural world that cannot be effectively brought into the classroom learning environment. Travel is an essential part of the class and locations will be chosen for their scientific and/or environmental significance. Classroom sessions will precede the travel portion of the course. Specific Prerequisites of the course will vary with semester and travel destinations.  Prerequisites: Specific Prerequisites of the course will vary based on the requirements of the specific travel experience.
BIOLOGY RESEARCH BIO 252 BIO (1.00 - 2.00 credits)
A framework for collaborative undergraduate research. Students in Biology, Environmental Science, Exercise Science and Neuroscience work with other students and a faculty mentor to advance scientific knowledge with original research or literature reviews. This course includes both individual work and group meetings to discuss scientific literature, experimental methods, data analysis, and presentation.  Prerequisites: successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 251; Consent of instructor. Offered: Fall, Winterim, Spring, Summer
BIOLOGY SEMINAR BIO 480 3K BIO (2.00 credits)
Edgewood's Biology major emphasizes the contributions of broadly-educated biologists to a just and compassionate world. As such, the scientific community engages a variety of different people in a collaborative effort to advance discovery and its ethical application. Biology Seminar is a forum in which our advanced students use a scientific talk on undergraduate research to display their expertise in biology, demonstrate their understanding of the scientific process and its application, and articulate a personal philosophy regarding their role in the scientific community. The course models the value of scientific communication. All members of the course also take an active role in the discourse that is a critical part of the scientific community through evaluation and discussion of the work of peers. Prerequisites: COR 2, BIO 251, Junior status, or consent of the instructor.
CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY BIO 402 BIO (4.00 credits)
Cell and Molecular Biology studies how life works at the molecular level. The course utilizes a comparative approach to the study of cell biology. Topics include molecular mechanisms of cellular regulation, the life cycle of a cell, and the dynamic role of protein structures in cellular function. Lab explores these topics in model organisms including bacteria, yeast and algae. The history of cell biology research is explored through the discussion of landmark discoveries and their influence on modern molecular biology. Students are expected to become proficient with light microscopy, and complement cellular observation with molecular techniques such as PCR and gel electrophoresis. An introduction to bioinformatics explores the relationship between protein structure and function. Prerequisites: successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 151 and BIO 152 or BIO 181 and BIO 182; completion of one year of college chemistry.
DENDROLOGY: TREES & SHRUBS OF WISC BIO 275 E BIO (2.00 credits)
A field course in the identification of trees, shrubs, and woody vines native to Wisconsin and the Great Lakes region as well as some of the common non-native horticultural and invasive species. Emphasis is on observation of plant characteristics permitting easy identification and discussion of the natural history, ecology, distribution, and human uses of each species. The course will also introduce students to basic forest ecology, management, and conservation principles, with emphasis on sustainable use of forests in the Great Lakes region and worldwide. 
ECOLOGICAL HISTORY OF CIVILIZATION BIO 333 E BIO (3.00 credits)
A global examination of the evolutionary and biological foundations underlying the multi-ethnic societies and diverse cultures observed in the modern world. Beginning with human evolution, this course will follow the sweep of human history through the origins of agriculture and the rise and fall of civilizations to the modern industrial condition. Focusing on biological and ecological processes and the human decisions that have led to the present, this course also explores the challenges faced by a growing and increasingly globalized human population as we move toward the future.  Prerequisites: none
ECOLOGY BIO 450 E BIO (4.00 credits)
No species exists in isolation; life on Earth depends on interconnections between organisms and their environment. This course explores this interdependence by considering ecological principles as they pertain to individual organisms, populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere. Special attention is given to the role of humans in global ecological systems. Many topics are explored through field-based research in local natural communities in the laboratory.   Prerequisites: BIO 151 or BIO 181.
ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY BIO 250 BIO (3.00 credits)
An introduction to ecological ideas and principles, with emphasis on their application to human concerns. Lecture/discussion format. Crosslisted ENVS 250 (S)
EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY BIO 415 BIO (4.00 credits)
Exercise physiology is the science of how the body responds and adapts to exercise. Topics include a study of exercise physiology and metabolism theory, application to fitness, and the development of training regimes. Prerequisites: successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 211; completion of MATH 114a. Cross-listed with EXR 415.
GENERAL CELL BIOLOGY BIO 152 S BIO (4.00 credits)
This general course in biology welcomes all students, as a General Education course and as a course for science majors. We discuss the nature of science and our current understanding of how cells work. The roles of genes, proteins, and energy transformations in cells are explored in both lecture and lab. Lectures and labs apply fundamental principles to current issues in biology. Students may take this course as thier first college biology course. It is recommended that sutens have Level 2 math placement. Students cannot receive credit for both BIO 152 and BIO 155, or BIO 152 and BIO 182
GENERAL ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION BIO 151 ESU BIO (4.00 credits)
This general course in biology welcomes all students, as a General Education course and as a course for science majors. We discuss the nature of science, Mendelian genetics, patterns of inheritance, concepts in ecology and processes of evolution. Lectures and labs apply fundamental concepts to current issues in biology. Students may take this course as their first college biology course. It is recommended that students have Level 2 math placement.  Students cannot receive credit for both BIO 151 and BIO 181. Offered: Fall, Spring
GENERAL MICROBIOLOGY FOR NURSING BIO 311 BIO (3.00 credits)
This course focuses on the study of biological entities collectively known as 'Microbes', with an emphasis on bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Diversity and community interactions of microbes, both pathogens and non-pathogens, will be examined. The structure, biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, pathogenicity, and control of microbes will be investigated. Additionally, students will analyze common microbiological techniques and methods used in clinical microbiology.  For Nursing students only. Prerequisites: Pre-nursing students; Successful completion (CD or higher) of CHEM 121  or BIO 155  or BIO 152  or BIO 182  or consent of the instructor.  Concurrent enrollment in NURS 220  required. Corequisites: Concurrent enrollment in NURS 220  required.
GENETICS BIO 401 BIO (3.00 credits)
Genetics is the study of heredity. The gene, the basic functional unit of heredity, is the focal point of this course. The course includes the fundamentals of gene structure and function, gene expression and control, classical genetics including both eukaryotes and prokaryotes, and concludes with the genetic analysis of populations. The primary course goal is to enhance and to develop students understanding and application of core genetic principles through problem-solving. Math Placement Level 2 is highly recommended. Prerequisites: Successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 152 or BIO 182 or BIO 155; or consent of instructor, Offered: Fall, Spring
HUMAN CELL BIOLOGY & GENETICS BIO 155 SU BIO (4.00 credits)
This is a one-semester exploration of the biological chemistry of the human cell organized around the unifying theme of the relationship of chemistry of biomolecules to the functional biology of a cell. Topics include the nature of science, biochemistry of water, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, cellular structures, energy transformations in the cell, mitosis, meiosis, relationship between genotype and phenotype, transmission genetics and cancer. The material is covered in a combination of lecture, discussion and laboratory. A semester long project in the laboratory will be used to allow students to engage in scientific inquiry. This course is the second semester of the chemistry-biology sequence for Nursing majors. Prerequisites: Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in, or placement into ENG 110; completion of, or concurrent enrollment in, MATH 114A or higher, or math placement level 2. Students cannot receive credit for both BIO 155 and BIO 152, or BIO 155 and BIO 182.
IMMUNOLOGY BIO 408 BIO (3.00 credits)
This course is an examination of general properties and principles of immune responses and serves as an introduction to molecular and cellular immunology. Topics covered include antigen and antibody structure and function, effector mechanisms, complement, major histocompatibility complexes, B- and T-cell receptors, antibody formation and immunity, and regulation of the immune response. Special topics include immunosuppression, immunodeficiency, transplantation, immunotherapy, and autoimmunity. Prerequisites: Successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 310  or consent of instructor.
INDEPENDENT BIOLOGY RESEARCH BIO 489 BIO (1.00 credits)
An opportunity to engage in independent biology research under the direction of a department mentor. This course is intended for students who are continuing research from a prior BIO 252 experience, or those who are otherwise prepared for advanced independent research on a defined question. Prerequisites: Successful completion of BIO 251; Consent of instructor. Offered: Fall, Winterim, Spring, Summer
INDEPENDENT STUDY - BIOLOGY BIO 379 BIO (1.00 - 4.00 credits)
The study of selected topics in biology under the direction of a faculty member in the department. Prerequisites: consent of instructor.
INDEPENDENT STUDY - BIOLOGY BIO 479 BIO (1.00 - 4.00 credits)
The study of selected topics in biology under the direction of a faculty member in the department. Prerequisites: consent of instructor.
INTRO HUMAN BIOMECHANICS BIO 220 V BIO (3.00 credits)
Biomechanics is a field which uses mechanical analyses to investigate biological problems. Biomechanics involves combining what we know about the anatomy and physiology of the body, and physics to investigate problems. It is an increasingly popular field of study, as it has applications in health, prosthetic design, ergonomics, athletics, and computer gaming. Students who complete this course will study the methods that are currently used in investigating human biomechanical problems. Topics covered will include: mechanical and structural properties of living tissues, loads applied to joints, common sports injuries and treatments, linear and angular kinematics, linear and angular kinetics, equilibrium and torque.   Prerequisites: C or better in MATH 114A  or Placement level 3 or consent of instructor.
INTRO TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE BIO 250 EV BIO (3.00 credits)
Humans are intimately connected to the natural world. We not only depend on the environment for our existence and well-being, we are part of the environment and our actions can affect it profoundly. This course explores the connections between humans and our environment by exploring basic ecological principals and applying them to many of the major environmental issues currently faced by humanity.  Prerequisites: None.
INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGY RESEARCH I BIO 251 IX BIO (3.00 credits)
An introduction to the scientific process that provides a framework for independent undergraduate research. Topics include reading and writing in the sciences, scientific ethics, experimental design, and biostatistics. As a general education course, the use of information technology and strategies for writing in the sciences are emphasized throughout the semester. Prerequisites: BIO 151, BIO 152, BIO 155, BIO 181, or BIO 182 or concurrent enrollment; ENG 110.
INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN BIOMECHANICS BIO 220 BIO (3.00 credits)
Biomechanics uses mechanical analyses to investigate biological problems by combining knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and physics to investigate problems in movement. Topics include mechanical and structural properties of living tissue, loads applied to joints, common sports injuries and treatments, linear and angular kinematics and kinetics, equilibrium, and movement in fluid mediums. (F) Crosslisted with PHYS 220. Prerequisites: C or better in MATH 114A or Placement level 3 or consent of instructor.
INTRODUCTION TO NUTRITION BIO 208 BIO (2.00 credits)
Nutrients and their relationship to normal body function. Course Objective: To become knowledgeable consumers of nutrition information by being aware of the rapidly changing nature of nutritional science, and how you can responsibly evaluate and apply such information to your life. To be achieved by planning a nutritious diet, using the acquired basic understanding of good nutrition; discussing the major nutrition issues regarding the U.S. diet; listing the necessary changes in his/her diet to provide optimal nutrition; describing how nutrients are used in the body. Prerequisites: None.
INTRODUCTORY CELL BIOLOGY BIO 182 S BIO (4.00 credits)
This course serves as one of a two semester set of introductory courses for well-prepared science majors. We discuss the nature of science, the structure and function of macromolecules, the processes involved in molecular genetics and the fundamental structures of cells. The role of energy transformations in cellular metabolism is also discussed. Coursework focuses both on general education and preparing students for upper-level science courses. Lectures and labs apply fundamental principles to current issues in biology. Students may take this course as their first college biology course. It is recommended that students have Level 2 math placement. Prerequisite(s): Students cannot receive credit for both BIO 182 and BIO 152, or BIO 182 and BIO 155.
INTRODUCTORY ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION BIO 181 ESU BIO (4.00 credits)
The course serves as one of a set of introductory courses for well-prepared science majors. We discuss the nature of science, Mendelian genetics, patterns of inheritance, concepts in ecology and processes of evolution. Coursework focuses both on general education and preparing students for upper-level sciences courses. Lectures and labs apply fundamental principles to current issues in biology. Students may take this course as their first college biology course. It is recommended that students have Level 2 math placement. Prereq: Students cannot receive credit for both BIO 181 and BIO 151.
MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY BIO 406 BIO (4.00 credits)
Although the vast majority of microbes are non-pathogenic, many are capable of causing disease in other organisms including humans. This course emphasizes 1) host-microbe interactions between bacterial or viral pathogens and the human host; and 2) the molecular and genetic contributions of both host and microbe in establishment of infection. Topics that will be covered include microbial pathogenesis, microbial genetics, host susceptibility, and mechanisms of antimicrobial control, both immunological and chemical. The course is a combination of lecture, laboratory, and journal club discussions. Prerequisites: Successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 310  or consent of instructor; BIO 401 recommended.
MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY BIO 202 BIO (2.00 credits)
This course will cover basic medical terminology associated with body systems and disease in preparation for fields in the health sciences. Emphasis will be placed on root words, prefixes, and suffixes, as well as developing an ability to analyze unknown words. The course will be facilitated online and will focus on building a functional medical vocabulary, including correct written and spoken use of terminology. Prerequisites: none.
MICROBIOLOGY BIO 310 BIO (4.00 credits)
This course focuses on the study of biological entities collectively known as 'Microbes', which include bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and fungi. Diversity and community interactions of microbes, both pathogens and non-pathogens, will be examined. The structure, biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, pathogenicity, and control of microbes will be investigated. The course is a combination of lecture and laboratory sessions. Prerequisites: Successful completion (CD or higher) of CHEM 121 or BIO 155 or BIO 152  or BIO 182  or consent of the instructor.
NATURAL COMMUNITIES OF WISCONSIN BIO 206 EV BIO (3.00 credits)
An exploration of Wisconsin's wetlands, lakes and streams, prairies, savannas, and forests. In field trips and labs, we practice identifying local plants and animals, see some of the science behind our understanding of these biological communities, and support collaborative efforts to preserve our natural heritage. Cross-listed with ENVS 206. Prerequisites: None.
ORGANISMAL BIOLOGY BIO 353 BIO (4.00 credits)
Organismal Biology focuses on the study of entire organisms, including their structure, function, ecology, and evolution. The course begins with a broad survey of biodiversity. We discuss our shared evolutionary history and the relationships among major groups of life, as well as the unique characteristics of different types of organisms. The course then investigates the relationship between structure and function in individual organisms, with a focus on plants and animals. We consider how organisms develop, coordinate their physiology, reproduce, and respond to their environments. Lectures and labs apply concepts to many different examples, including laboratory model organisms and species found near campus.  Students are recommended to have completed, or be concurrently enrolled in, BIO 251. Prerequisite(s): BIO 151, BIO 181, or their equivalents; BIO 152, BIO 182, Bio155, or their equivalents
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY BIO 412 BIO (3.00 credits)
Pathophysiology offers students a basic understanding of the causes, physiological mechanisms, and clinical manifestations of human disease states. The clinical signs and symptoms along with the therapeutic considerations of human diseases will be addressed. Prerequisites: successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 210 and BIO 211.
SPEC. TPC: BIOLOGY TRAVEL COURSE BIO 369A 2EG BIO (4.00 credits)
Biology travel courses offer students an opportunity to learn about exciting places far beyond Edgewood College. With both an on-campus classroom component and approximately two weeks of faculty-led travel abroad, students will get an in depth, firsthand experience with the biology and culture of another part of the world. Current programs are offered in the Galapagos Islands and Costa Rica. These courses will challenge students to explore and reflect upon their personal values, beliefs, spiritualties, and worldviews.Students will critically examine the global issue of human impacts on biological communities and explore the culture and history of the places they will visit. Prerequisites: Two full-time semesters of college credit, excluding retro credits, AP credits, and college credit earned while in high school; students must be able to swim a minimum of two laps at the EW High School pool; consent of instructor.
SPECIAL TOPICS IN BIOLOGY BIO 469 BIO (1.00 credits)
This course is an advanced study of topics of special current interest in biology and related fields. Seminar/discussion or lecture format. Prerequisites: consent of instructor.
SPORTS NUTRITION BIO 308 BIO (3.00 credits)
This course presents foundational principles and evidence based recommendations for aspects of nutrition that are related to exercise performance and recovery. Topics will include bioenergetic systems, macro- and micronutrient needs, fluid intake, weight management strategies as well as nutritional and sport supplements. Prerequisites: One of the following courses: BIO152, BIO155, BIO182, CHEM120, BIO208. Cross-listed with EXR308.
VIROLOGY BIO 414 BIO (3.00 credits)
Virology is the study of viruses. This course offers an in-depth look at the ways in which viruses support their life cycle through the infection of host cells, how infections cause disease, vaccination, and the techniques that are used to investigate viruses. Students will become proficient in reading scientific literature and in designing, analyzing, and interpreting experiments in virology. Prerequisites: Successful completion (CD or higher) of BIO 310  or BIO 401 , or consent of instructor.