CHAIR: MONTE L. THIES

NAVIGATION: Biology Major BA | Biology Major BS | Forensic Science | Biology Minor | Course Descriptions |

FACULTY: Bagdonas, J. Cook, T. Cook, DeShaw, Dewees, Foerster, Hudson, Lutterschmidt, Neudorf, Sailer, Thies, Turner, J. Williams, E. Wilson

Biology, the study of living things, is an exciting and dynamic field that offers many areas of focus. Students may choose to study how life forms function at the molecular, cellular, organismal or ecological levels. The biological sciences provide opportunities to study viruses, bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals and to investigate the biochemical, physiological, anatomical, behavioral, or ecological processes that make each organism unique.
The Department of Biological Sciences is located in the Lee Drain Building, which houses facilities including teaching and research laboratories, the Warner Herbarium, Sam Houston State Vertebrate Museum and Texas Bird Sound Library, an animal rearing facility, greenhouse, outdoor aviary, and molecular, microbiology, and flow cytometry laboratories. The Department also owns and operates the Center for Biological Field Studies, a 250 acre field station within 5 miles of campus that is dedicated to biological and environmental research and teaching.

Major in Biology: All students majoring in Biology will develop competence in the fundamental principles of biology and will gain experience in botany, zoology, cellular biology, microbiology, genetics, and ecology. Students will take an active role in creating a degree plan that best meets their interests and their career goals. Most students pursue careers in biotechnology, terrestrial ecology, animal physiology, animal behavior, or teacher education. Students interested in forensic science will combine the extensive background in biology with substantial course work in chemistry and criminal justice to prepare them for work with state and federal agencies.

Major in Environmental Science: Environmental Science is an expanding field with many areas of concentration. Students may work in air quality, water quality, industrial hygiene, pollution management, wetland delineation, endangered species management, or environmental laws and policies.

BIOLOGY PROGRAM

Scholarships: Academic scholarships are available from both the Department of Biological Sciences and the University to support the students' studies. Information on departmental scholarships may be obtained by writing to Scholarships, Department of Biological Sciences, Box 2116, SHSU, Huntsville, Texas 77341-2116 or by visiting our website. Information on University scholarships may be obtained from the Office of Academic Scholarships website or telephone (936) 294-1672.

* Students completing BIO 161/111 and 162/112 must complete BIO 234 before taking Genetics (BIO 345). Students taking BIO 138/118 and 139/119 should replace BIO 234 with an advanced elective
** Advanced Electives should be selected according to specific areas of study as determined by the student and their academic advisor.
*** Recommended minor is CHM, ESC, GEL, MTH, or PHY.

CHOICE OF RESTRICTED ELECTIVES IN BIOLOGY

A student working toward a BA degree must complete four upper division (300/400 level) courses in addition to the core courses. A student working toward a BS degree must specialize their degree program by taking five upper division (300/400 level) courses from their area of focus. Students choosing to generalize their program, such as those working toward teacher education, may elect to take their courses from several focus groups. Students should consult with an academic advisor in the Biological Sciences early in their degree program regarding appropriate choices for their restricted electives.

TEACHER CERTIFICATION IN SCIENCE AND LIFE SCIENCES

Biology Majors
Students may receive teacher certification in either Science or Life Sciences for grades 8-12; however, degree requirements for Secondary Teacher Certification in Science and Life Sciences are under revision. Contact the department chair for information about courses leading to certification. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree is not available for the Science certification program.
For teacher certification, no grade below C in the science composite courses is accepted.

Biology and Life Science Minors
Biology minors seeking certification in Life Sciences at the secondary level (grades 8-12) are required to complete CHM 138/118, 139/119, (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (161/111, 162/112, 234), 340, 341, 345, 347, and 392. The composite science program is not available for the minor. Students not seeking certification should use their electives to fill the University requirement for advanced hours. The required education courses are:
SED 383, 394, 464, 480, 496, 497, RDG 392, RDG 392, SCM 384, SED 374
For teacher certification, no grade below C in the science composite courses is accepted.

CURRICULUM: BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
(Emphasis in Forensic Science)

Major In Biology with emphasis in Forensic Science
Students seeking a background that will prepare them for careers in Forensic Science can select advanced courses that lead to a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry and/or Criminal Justice. Courses in the major should be selected from BIO 341, 342, 345, 347, 349, 431, 432, 449, 474, 480, and 494. Courses for the Chemistry minor should be selected from CHM 348*, 339, 440, 441, 458, and 495. The minor in Criminal Justice may include CJ 261, 267, 268, 273, 294, 462, 465, and 488.

Minor in Biology with emphasis in Forensic Science
Students seeking a background that will prepare them for careers in Forensic Science can select advanced courses that lead to a major in Chemistry (see Department of Chemistry) and a minor in Biology. The following courses are required for the Forensic Science minor: BIO 341 or 342, 345, 347, 480, 349 or 449, and 432 or 474.

Major In Biology with emphasis in Biotechnology
To satisfy the Bachelor of Science degree requirements, Biology majors desiring to prepare for careers in biotechnology should take the following advanced courses: BIO 344, 345, 347, 349, 410, 411, 435, 449, 480, BIO Advanced Elective, and BIO 474 or MTH 379. These students also should take a minor in chemistry, including CHM 348 and 440. Internships (BIO 494) are available to qualified students. For further details about biotechnology, see the department chair.

Major In Biology with emphasis in Preprofessional Studies
Biology majors following the preprofessional curricula of premedicine, predentistry, prephysical therapy, and preveterinary medicine should take the following Biology courses: BIO 342, 344, 347, and 349. General electives recommended for preprofessional students are BIO 348, 435, 446, 449, 474, and 480. For detailed course requirements in specialized fields, consult the Preprofessional Studies listings of this catalogue, page .

Curriculum: Minor in Biology
BACHELOR OF ARTS OR BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

Students seeking a minor in biology are required to complete CHM 138/118, 139/119, (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234), 340, 345, 347, plus one elective course. Students seeking a secondary teaching certificate along with their biology minor should include BIO 341 or BIO 392 as their restricted elective for a minimum of 26 semester hours of biology.

BIOLOGY COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

BIO 134 CONTEMPORARY BIOLOGY. [BIOL 1308] Presentation for the non-science major of biological concepts and topical subjects related to science methods, embryological development, reproduction, genetics, evolution, human organ systems, disease, and environmental biology. Ethical considerations of reproduction and birth control, genetic engineering, environmental pollution and population control will be included. Credit in BIO 134 as a laboratory science is contingent upon completion of BIO 114. Credit in this course cannot be applied to either a major or minor in the sciences. Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 114 CONTEMPORARY BIOLOGY LABORATORY. [BIOL 1108] Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 1.

BIO 137 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. [BIO 2306; Also listed as ESC 137]. A general course designed to cover all areas relating to contemporary ecological problems. Topics include air, water, and soil pollution; radiation, limnology, climate, pesticides, wastes, and land conservation. Fall, Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 117 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE LABORATORY. [BIO 2106; Also listed as ESC 117] Fall, Spring. Credit 1.

BIO 138 INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY OF CELLS. [BIOL 1308] A general cellular approach to the principles of biology is presented and includes scientific methods, origins of life, chemistry of life, cell structure, metabolism, genetics, evolution and reproduction. Students may begin sequence with either BIO 138 or 139. Credit for BIO 138 as a laboratory science is contingent on completion of BIO 118. No prerequisite. Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 118 INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY OF CELLS LABORATORY. [BIOL 1108] Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 1.

BIO 139 INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY OF ORGANISMS. [BIOL 1309] An organismal approach to biology is presented in the context of the scientific method. Basic principles of organismal diversity and structural and functional features of major animal and plant groups are presented. General principles of ecology are introduced. Students may begin sequence with either BIO 138 or 139. Credit for BIO 139 as a laboratory science is contingent on completion of BIO 119. No prerequisite. Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 119 INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY OF ORGANISMS LABORATORY. [BIOL 1109] Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 1.

BIO 161 GENERAL BOTANY. [BIO 1311]. General principles of botany are presented. Emphasis is placed on morphology, taxonomy, genetics, physiology and ecology of plants in an evolutionary and ecological context. Students may begin sequence with either BIO 161 or 162. Credit for BIO 161 as a laboratory science is contingent on completion of BIO 111. Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 111 GENERAL BOTANY LABORATORY. [BIO 1111] Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 1.

BIO 162 GENERAL ZOOLOGY. [BIO 1313]. General principles of zoology are presented in an evolutionary context. Emphasis is placed on the anatomy, behavior and ecology of animals. Students are introduced to evolutionary and ecological principles of biology. Students may begin sequence with either BIO 161 or 162. Credit for BIO 162 as a laboratory science is contingent on completion of BIO 112. Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 112 GENERAL ZOOLOGY LABORATORY. [BIO 1113] Fall, Spring, Summer. Credit 1.

BIO 234 INTRODUCTORY CELL BIOLOGY. A general cellular approach to biological principles is presented, including the scientific methods, origins of life, biochemistry, cell structure, metabolism, cellular evolution, and cell division. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111 and BIO 162/112. Fall, Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 245 HUMAN ANATOMY. [BIOL 2401] This course deals with structure and form of the human body. It includes studies of the cell, tissues, and organ systems. Registration is primarily for students in prenursing or majors in kinesiology or health. Credit in this course cannot be applied to either a major or minor in Biology. Two-hour laboratory. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 246 HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY. [BIOL 2402] This course will help students identify and understand the function of several important human organ systems and how these systems maintain homeostasis. Topics and the mechanisms involving circulation, digestion, metabolism, muscle action and respiration will receive the most emphasis. This course is designed to emphasize a clinical knowledge of physiology and techniques required by students studying nursing, physical therapy, and related health fields. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 245. Two-hour laboratory. Fall and Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 247 INTRODUCTORY APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY. [BIOL 2420] An introduction to microorganisms, their morphology, growth requirements, methods of culture, and the manner in which they affect health. Reactions of the body toward pathogenic organisms and the principles of immunity and chemotherapy are considered. Credit in this course cannot be applied to a major or minor in Biology. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 336 FISH, WILDLIFE, RECREATION MANAGEMENT. The history and basic principles, philosophy and concepts of wildlife management as they relate to habitats, people and the problems associated with their interactions. Three-hour laboratory and field work. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112); BIO 340 strongly recommended. Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 340 GENERAL ECOLOGY. A study of physical and biotic components of the environment, responses of organisms to their environment, community ecology, natural ecosystems, and human's interaction with ecosystems. Field studies are an integral part of the laboratory. Three-hour laboratory and field work. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 341 HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. This course deals with the study of structure and function of the human body. The structure of various organ systems are discussed and their function as organs and systems described. This course is not recommended for preprofessional students. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Two-hour laboratory. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 342 COMPARATIVE VERTEBRATE ANATOMY. A study of representative vertebrates, their anatomy, ontogeny and phylogeny. The course is required of premedical students. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Three-hour laboratory. Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 343 PLANT PHYSIOLOGY. General course dealing with principal life processes of plants. Topics include photosynthesis, respiration, nutrition, flowering, dormancy, hormones, growth, and development. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112); CHM 138/118, 139/119. Three-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Odd year Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 344 GENERAL PHYSIOLOGY. The study of the primary mechanisms by which autotrophic and heterotrophic organisms function. Important fundamental aspects of cellular, regulatory, and systemic physiology are presented emphasizing the functional aspect of living systems at the cellular and molecular levels. Students are expected to develop an integrated understanding of the areas presented and recognize the interdependence of these mechanisms in the maintenance of homeostasis. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112); CHM 138/118, 139/119, and 238/218. Three-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 345 INTRODUCTORY GENETICS. Study is made of the physical bases of inheritance and principles of heredity and variation. Topics include Mendelian genetics, cytogenetics, molecular basis of genetics, gene expression and regulation, DNA technologies and population genetics. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112, and 234); CHM 138/118, 139/119. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 346 PATHOPHYSIOLOGY. A study of basic physiological systems and underlying system dysfunctions associated with human disease processes across the life span. Relationships between etiologic agents and their consequence to human form and function will be stressed. Critical thinking processes integrating symptoms, treatment and prognosis will be applied to physiological perspectives. This course is designed for prenursing and other health and allied health majors; credit in this course cannot be applied to either a major or minor in biology. Four hours lecture per week. Prerequisites: CHM 135/115, BIO 245, 246. Credit 4.

BIO 347 GENERAL MICROBIOLOGY. An introduction to microorganisms including bacteria, viruses and fungi. Major areas considered are morphology, physiology, genetics, and pathology. Microorganisms are studied in relation to soil, water, food, industrial processes, and disease. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112) and eight hours of chemistry. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Fall, Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 348 VERTEBRATE EMBRYOLOGY. This is a study of the early development of representative vertebrates from fertilization until differentiation of organs has been completed. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Even year Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 349 HISTOLOGY. A study of animal tissues with emphasis on human materials. Identification and preparatory techniques are stressed. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112); CHM 138/118, 139/119. Three-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Spring. Credit 4.

BIO 364 INTRODUCTORY PLANT TAXONOMY. A study of the characteristics and classification of plants emphasizing systematic techniques. Focus on identification of the more common plant families allows transfer of knowledge to other regions of the country and world. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Two-hour laboratory. Spring. Writing enhanced. Credit 3.

BIO 369 ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY. A study of basic principles of entomology as related to modern principles of insect pest management. Included are discussions of the biology and control of economically important insects in Texas. Collections and mounts of insects are made. Not open to students with credit in BIO 431. Two hours lecture and two hours laboratory/week. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112), and Junior standing or consent of instructor. Even year Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 371 PLANT PATHOLOGY. The study of the diseases common to field crops, orchards and gardens in Texas emphasizing the identification, cause and control of these diseases. Two hours lecture and two hours laboratory/week. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112), and Junior standing or consent of instructor. Odd year Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 392 PLANT MORPHOLOGY. Survey of the plant kingdom with emphasis on morphogenesis, comparative structure and life cycles of representative plant forms. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Three-hour laboratory. Fall, Summer. Credit 3.

BIO 410:411 UNDERGRADUATE SEMINAR. Discussions of current literature in the biological sciences. Required of senior Biology majors. Prerequisite: Biology major, Senior standing. Fall, Spring. Credit 1 each.

BIO 430 VERTEBRATE BIOLOGY. This course deals with the taxonomy, natural history and ecology of vertebrates. Laboratories emphasize the identification of Texas Vertebrates and field techniques used in their study. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Two-hour laboratory. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 431 GENERAL ENTOMOLOGY. A study is made of insect morphology, taxonomy, development, and life histories. Collection and identification by use of keys are stressed. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Two-hour laboratory. Odd year Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 432 ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY. [Also listed as ESC 432]. This course presents basic toxicology as a qualitative and quantitative science of the effects of poisons (toxins) upon the environment, individuals, and populations. The course will also provide a comparison of the toxicology of human and other species' exposure to common environmental contaminants. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112), and 247 or 347; MTH 379 or BIO 474; 8 hours CHM. Two one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory/week. Even year Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 433 AQUATIC BIOLOGY. Physical, chemical, and biological features of inland waters; organisms of freshwater; factors in biological productivity; methods and equipment. Largely a field course dealing with various approved methods of studying freshwater systems. This course is designed to meet the needs of chemists, teachers of science, biologists, and environmental scientists. Prerequisites: 11 hrs. BIO. Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112), 8 hrs. CHM, and junior or senior standing. Two-hour laboratory. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 435 IMMUNOLOGY. Humoral and cell-mediated immunobiology, genetics, and chemistry are considered along with immunoanalyses and pathologies. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234), Genetics and biochemistry recommended. Two-hour seminar. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 437 MICROBIAL ECOLOGY. This course introduces the student to basic ecological concepts through the study of microbial communities. Interactions at the microscopic and macroscopic levels will be discussed along with biogeochemical cycles. Bioremediation concepts will also be explored. Prerequisite: (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112), and 247 or 347, CHM 249. Two one-hour lectures and one three-hour laboratory/week. Credit 3.

BIO 446 PARASITOLOGY. Morphology, life cycles, physiological adaptations, evolution and distribution of parasitic animals. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 138/118, 139/119 plus advanced standing. Two-hour laboratory. Odd year Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 449 CYTOLOGY. A physical and chemical study of cells, their ultrastructure and nuclei. Studies of metabolism, growth, differentiation and reproduction are included with special emphasis on mitosis and meiosis. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112, 234); CHM 138/118, 139/119, plus advanced standing. Three-hour laboratory. Writing Enhanced. Fall. Credit 4.

BIO 470 ANIMAL BEHAVIOR. A study of the mechanisms and functional explanations of behavior. Experimental approaches to addressing questions of behavior will be emphasized. Topics will include behavioral genetics, neuroethology, migration, habitat selection, foraging, communication, social behavior, reproductive strategies, and human sociobiology. Field studies and independent projects will be integral components of this course. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in BIO 161/111 and 162/112. Two-hour laboratory. Writing Enhanced. Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 471 INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY. This course will explore the diversity of invertebrate types morphologically, embryologically and physiologically. The ecological role of invertebrates will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112). Two-hour laboratory. Even year Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 474 BIOSTATISTICS. This course includes an introduction to statistical methods and their application to real biological problems. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability distributions, estimation, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression, and analysis of variance. Use of the computer in statistical analyses will also be stressed. Prerequisites: MTH 170 and 8 hours of Biology. Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 480 INTRODUCTION TO MOLECULAR BIOLOGY. The course emphasizes the structural and functional characteristics of proteins, RNA and DNA, and their individual and collective contributions to life. The course provides the conceptual and experimental framework for genetic engineering and the new Biotechnology. Models from prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms as well as viruses and plasmids are used. The laboratory will include methods of gene cloning and electrophoretic analyses of proteins, RNA and DNA. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112); and BIO 345, 347; Organic Chemistry. Three-hour laboratory. Writing Enhanced. Spring. Credit 3.

BIO 493 ENDOCRINOLOGY. This course is designed to familiarize the student with the structure, development, comparative anatomy, and physiology of the endocrine system. Particular emphasis will be given to the endocrine control of reproductive processes. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in (BIO 138/118, 139/119) or (BIO 161/111, 162/112); CHM 138/118, 139/119. Two-hour laboratory. Writing enhanced. Odd year Fall. Credit 3.

BIO 494 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES INTERNSHIP. A supervised, off-campus intern work experience in an approved area of the biological sciences with business, industry or government. This elective course provides the student with direct professional work experience in such areas as biotechnology, biomedical research, ecological assessment, wildlife biology, and science/nature education. Academic credit is based on a written technical report and an oral presentation. Prerequisites: Biology major, six hours of advanced biology, junior standing, 3.0 GPA and approval of department chair. Writing enhanced. Credit 3.

BIO 495 SPECIAL TOPICS IN BIOLOGY. This course is designed to allow independent study by selected advanced students in specific areas of biology not covered by organized undergraduate courses. Instruction is on individual basis with the student being supervised in his studies by an appropriate faculty member. Prerequisite: senior standing in Biology. This course may be taken for Academic Distinction credit. See Academic Distinction Program in this Catalogue. Credit 1, 2, or 3.