May 18, 2024  
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke 2016-2017 Catalog 
    
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke 2016-2017 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

Biology

  
  • BIO 1000. Principles of Biology (3 credits)


    An introduction to modern and classical biology concepts. Lecture.

  
  • BIO 1010. General Botany (4 credits)


    Introductory plant science with emphasis on morphology and physiology of the seed plants and a survey of representative types from the plant kingdom. A prerequisite to all other courses in botany. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 1020. General Zoology (4 credits)


    Introductory coverage of the animal kingdom with emphasis on vertebrate systems, classification & survey of the animal phyla, and coverage of cellular respiration. Laboratory time will be spent on histology, anatomy, and a survey of phyla. A prerequisite to all other zoology courses. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 1030. Basic Human Biology (3 credits)


    An elementary study of the human body in health and disease. This course relates fundamental knowledge about human anatomy and physiology to current issues. Questions such as how do birth control pills work? and what causes cancer? will be explored. Does not fulfill a BIO elective. Lecture.

  
  • BIO 1060. Exploring Life’s Diversity (3 credits)


    A survey of the Kingdoms of living organisms to include an introduction to the theory of evolution and evidence for evolution, and an introduction to the fundamental principles of ecology. This course will not satisfy the prerequisite requirement for other biology courses. Lecture.

  
  • BIO 2040. Vertebrate Zoology (3 credits)


    The biology of several classes of vertebrate animals, both living and extinct, with emphasis on their diversity, evolution, morphology, physiology, and behavior. Lecture. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1020 .

  
  • BIO 2050. Animal Behavior (4 credits)


    A survey of the functional and complexity categories of behavior with emphasis in the animal kingdom. Examples will range from one-celled organisms to humans. Other selected topics will include the evolution of behavior, sociobiology, animal cultures, behavioral ecology, behavioral genetics, neurobiology, consciousness and others. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000  , BIO 1020 .

  
  • BIO 2110. Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4 credits)


    A course covering the structure and function of certain organ systems of the human body. This is the first of a two-semester sequence in human anatomy and physiology. Topics to be covered include: an introduction to anatomy and physiology, the language of anatomy, homeostasis, histology and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 2120. Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4 credits)


    A course covering the structure and function of certain organ systems of the human body. The second in a two-semester sequence of courses in human anatomy and physiology. Systems covered include the circulatory, immune, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and reproductive systems. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 . BIO 2110  is recommended but not required.

  
  • BIO 2200. Field Botany (4 credits)


    Crosslisted: (ENV 2200)
    An introduction to the theory and practice of field botany, with emphasis placed on higher plants. Topics covered will include basic taxonomy, collection of field data, monitoring of the physical environment, census/sampling techniques, physiological and population ecology, and a general treatment of the plant communities of North Carolina. Lecture and Laboratory.

  
  • BIO 2300. Field Zoology (4 credits)


    Crosslisted: (ENV 2300)
    An introduction to the theory and practice of field zoology, with emphasis on vertebrates. Topics covered will include basic identification and taxonomy, collection of field data, monitoring of the physical environment, census/sampling techniques, physiological and population ecology, and mathematical modeling. Lecture and Laboratory.

  
  • BIO 2310. Morphology of the Non-Vascular Plants (4 credits)


    A comprehensive survey of the algae, fungi, and bryophytes dealing with structure, form, and reproduction. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1010 .

  
  • BIO 2320. Morphology of the Vascular Plants (4 credits)


    A continuation of Biology 231, a survey of the plant kingdom with emphasis on selected types of vascular plants. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000, 1010.

  
  • BIO 2400. Field Microbiology (4 credits)


    Crosslisted: (ENV 2400)
    This course is an introduction to the microbial diversity of ecosystems. It includes field collection, identification, and digital imaging of live samples. Emphasis will be placed on organisms that are important in ecosystem function and include those that serve as indicators of water quality or environmental health. Protists will be emphasized. Lecture and Field Laboratory.

  
  • BIO 2500. Ornithology (4 credits)


    This course is designed to familiarize students with the major groupings of birds, basics of flight, adaptations, behavior, and birding “hot spots” in North Carolina. Emphasis will be placed on field identification techniques and habitat associations. Lecture and Laboratory.

  
  • BIO 3010. Entomology (4 credits)


    An introduction to the study of insects which emphasizes the classification, morphology, physiology, ecology, behavior, and importance of insects. Approximately one week will be devoted to spiders. A small collection with identification is required. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1020 .

  
  • BIO 3025. Natural History of Costa Rica (3 credits)


    An introduction to different ecosystems within Costa Rica. Students participate in field trips and excursions to study first-hand the biological complexities of the tropics. Students will experience cultural aspects of Costa Rica, discuss Costa Rica’s conservation ethic and the impact of humans on the environment. Offered in the summer of odd numbered years; students spend two full weeks in Costa Rica.

  
  • BIO 3040. Principles of Ecology (4 credits)


    An analysis of the interactions of organisms with each other and the physical environment. Ecological process is examined at individual, community, and ecosystem levels. The basic kinds of ecosystems are surveyed. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 3050. Introductory Mycology (3 credits)


    An introduction to the fungi, with emphasis upon taxonomy and physiology, including some reference to their economic importance. Special emphasis will be given to those that are animal or plant pathogens. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1010 .

  
  • BIO 3100. Invertebrate Zoology (4 credits)


    A survey of the major invertebrate phyla emphasizing classification, morphology, natural history, evolution, and behavior. At least one Saturday coastal field trip is required. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1020 .

  
  • BIO 3150. Microbiology (4 credits)


    The biology of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses, with special reference to bacteria. Microbial diseases, immunity and the role of microorganisms in human affairs are also emphasized. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 3180. Principles of Genetics (4 credits)


    An introduction to the basic principles of heredity and molecular genetics. General aspects of human genetics are included. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , MAT 1070 .

  
  • BIO 3190. Animal Parasitology (4 credits)


    An introduction to the biology of parasites emphasizing classification, morphology, life history, pathology, treatment, ecology and evolution. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1020 .

  
  • BIO 3200. Developmental Biology (4 credits)


    A course on the classical, genetic, and molecular analysis of embryonic development with lab. Its purpose is to offer a blend of classical and modem topics, which are organized in three parts: 1. The natural sequence of developmental stages from gametogenesis and fertilization to histogenesis; 2. The differential gene expression; and 3. a series of core topics including pattern formation, sex determination, hormonal control, and growth. Examples are picked as they serve best to illustrate the general points to be made. Mammals or other vertebrates will be preferred whenever possible because we have a natural interest in their development. Lecture and Laboratory.

  
  • BIO 3400. Plant Systematics (4 credits)


    An introduction to systematic botany and plant community ecology. The course emphasizes identification of the local flora as well as the recognition and characteristics of plant communities found in North Carolina. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1010 .

  
  • BIO 3420. Pollution Ecology (3 credits)


    An introduction to the sources, nature, transformations, and distribution of pollutants within biological and ecological systems, with emphasis on how those systems are affected. Emphasis will be placed on those aspects of chemistry, physiology, and ecology most useful for practitioners in the field of environmental science. Content will draw on general and specific pollution sources and events. Lecture. PREREQ: CHM 1300  recommended.

  
  • BIO 3510. Research Strategies (3 credits)


    Introduction to scientific investigation including experimental design, data analysis, laboratory notetaking, and communication of the scientific results. Provides design and implementation of a focused project utilizing current techniques and methods in biotechnology. Recent research reports will also be analyzed to obtain an understanding of the principles underlying these approaches. Lecture. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 3180 .

  
  • BIO 3540. Plant Physiology (4 credits)


    A study of the physiological activities in plants such as water relations, metabolism, plant growth hormones, as well as growth, development, and environmental adaptations. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1010 .

  
  • BIO 3700. Science Communication and Research Methods (1 credit)


    A review of the current literature in a variety of biomedical journals. The format for presentation of material and the research methods employed will be examined. Designed so that students can obtain an understanding of how research is done and how it is reported. Lecture. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , Consent of Instructor.

  
  • BIO 3710. Cell Biology (4 credits)


    A study of cellular ultrastructure, molecular organization, and physiology. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , CHM 1300 , CHM 1310 . Recommended: CHM 2500 , CHM 2510 .

  
  • BIO 3750. Neurobiology (4 credits)


    This course covers the fundamentals of neurobiology, the cellular basis of nervous system function, the characteristics and functions of neurons, and the various ways signals are relayed within the nervous system. We examine how neurons receive, integrate and transmit information and how groups of neurons produce both simple and complex behaviors. The cellular and molecular basis of sensory and motor systems, plasticity, development and learning will be analyzed, with emphasis on the relationship of cellular and physiological processes to human behavior. The laboratory/discussion section will include dissection of preserved brains, basic laboratory techniques in neuroscience, and analysis and discussion of relevant portions of the recent scientific literature. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1020 .

  
  • BIO 3810. Immunology (3 credits)


    The biology and molecular events underlying the immune response and its relationship to the activities and strategies of foreign invaders (both infectious and non-infectious). Applied immunology including biotechnology and diagnostic tools is also presented. Lecture. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 3180 , CHM 1310 .

  
  • BIO 4100. Marine Biology (3 credits)


    A survey of the common organisms associated with tropical marine habitats. Emphasis will be on fish, invertebrates, algae, and birds. Coverage will include discussions of the coral reef, mangrove, and other marine communities, ocean currents, and physical and geological factors. The course includes two weeks of on-campus study followed by one week of field work at the Bermuda Institute of Oceanic Sciences (BIOS). There are additional costs involved in the Bermuda trip. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 4130. Molecular Biology (4 credits)


    A laboratory-oriented course intended to introduce students to both basic and advanced concepts of molecular biology. Students will be introduced to the theory and practical uses of instrumentation and procedures currently used to analyze nucleic acids and proteins including, but not limited to, gene cloning, macromolecule isolation, PCR, electrophoresis, and hybridization/blotting techniques. Other advanced topics introduced in lecture and/or lab may include microarrays, DNA sequencing, RNAi, cell culture, and bioinformatics. PREREQ: BIO 3180 .

  
  • BIO 4140. Biogeography (3 credits)


    The principles of biogeography will be discussed in light of current understanding of geology, geography and evolutionary biology. Biogeographic processes are examined at individual, community and ecosystem levels. The effects of a changing earth on species distribution and extinction will be assessed. Causes of modern and historical distributions of taxa will be examined. Lecture. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 4220. Evolution (3 credits)


    An introduction to and analysis of the concepts of organic evolution, mutation, adaptation, selection, competition, and origin of species are considered. Lecture. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 4310. Biometrics (4 credits)


    This course covers the nature of the scientific method, hypothesis formulation, experimental protocols, and hypothesis testing. An emphasis is placed on the concepts of experimental design in biological systems, and on current methods of standard data analysis. During the semester, students will design a research project, collect data, analyze this data in an appropriate way, and write a research paper that conforms to standards of current biological journals. The course is recommended for students planning a research career in biology. Student understanding of basic statistics and familiarity with microcomputer data bases and word processing programs are assumed. Lecture. PREREQ: BIO 1000 .

  
  • BIO 4320. Conservation Biology (4 credits)


    The science of conserving the Earth’s biodiversity. This course will examine mankind’s impact on species, populations, and habitats. The role of government and the private sector in conservation will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on defining the problems and identifying scientific solutions, based on ecological principles and case studies. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1010 , BIO 1020 .

  
  • BIO 4610. Animal Physiology (4 credits)


    Physiological principles study as they occur throughout the animal kingdom with special emphasis on mammals. A detailed study of the mechanisms involved in the maintenance of the homeostatic condition. Lecture and Laboratory. PREREQ: BIO 1000 , BIO 1020  required; CHM 2500 , CHM 2510 , and BIO 3710  recommended.

  
  • BIO 4700. Reading and Writing in the Natural Sciences (3 credits)


    This course will utilize science books, essays, and journal articles intended for various audiences to provide practice in reading and thinking critically about the connections among various disciplines of science. The skill of writing will be addressed as a process with a chance for multiple drafts and peer review. This course is intended for senior majors in the Natural Sciences.

  
  • BIO 4950. Biology Seminar (1 credit per semester)


    A seminar series in which current biology research projects are presented and discussed. Most seminars will be presented by visiting scientists recruited from research laboratories in industry and universities. Lecture. (repeatable up to 4 credits) PREREQ: BIO 1000 , Consent of Instructor.

  
  • BIO 4990. Research in Biology (1-3 credits per semester)


    Designed to provide the student with experience in the analysis and solution of problems in an areas of biological interest. Students should approach appropriate departmental faculty and discuss the possibility of collaboration on BIO 4990 hours prior to registration. Faculty approval is required for registration. (repeatable up to 12 credits) PREREQ: Consent of mentoring faculty member.

  
  • BIO 5100. Marine Biology (3 credits)


    A survey of the common organisms associated with tropical marine habitats. Emphasis will be on fish, invertebrates, algae, and birds. Coverage will include discussions of the coral reef and mangrove communities, ocean currents, and physical and geological factors. The course includes a one-week on-campus study followed by a one-week field, lab work at the Bermuda Biological Station for Research. There are additional costs involved in the trip.

  
  • BIO 5120. Topics in Ecology and Environmental Biology (3 credits)


    Students will become cognizant of the principles of ecology and environmental biology through analysis of the interactions of organisms with each other and their interactions with the physical environment. The impact of humans and human systems on the natural world will be examined The interaction of ecological, geological and human processes is examined at regional, national, and global scales. Human management of fragmented landscapes will be discussed. Certain topics may be emphasized according to the expertise of the instructor.

  
  • BIO 5140. Biogeography (3 credits)


    Students will become cognizant of the principles of biogeography through an analysis of the interactions of organisms with each other and with the physical environment through time. Biogeographic processes are examined at individual, community, and ecosystem levels. The effects of evolution and a changing earth on species distribution and extinction will be assessed. Causes of modern and historical distributions of taxa will be examined.

  
  • BIO 5150. Advanced Microbiology (3 credits)


    A survey of modern developments emphasizing the application of the knowledge of fundamental microbiology to address problems which exist in today’s environment. Topics will be discussed using case studies and problem -based learning and will include comparative genomics, emerging infectious diseases, antibiotic resistance, bioterrorism, microbial biotechnology and archaeal, viral, and prion biology.

  
  • BIO 5200. Current Trends in Molecular and Cellular Biology (3 credits)


    This course is designed to provide the student with an awareness and appreciation of the rapidly changing trends in molecular and cellular biology. Discussion will include the medical potential and ethical issues raised by developments in these areas. Topics of discussion will include cloning, gene therapy, etc.

  
  • BIO 5250. Evolutionary Botany (3 credits)


    A survey of all photosynthetic organisms with emphasis on phylogenetic relationships. Topics covered will include early evolution of life and the part photosynthesis played, three billion years of evolution restricted to the aquatic habitat, and evolution of terrestrial plants over the last half billion years.

  
  • BIO 5280. Teaching Practicum in Biology (3 credits)


    Experience in some aspects of the teaching of biology with formal evaluation, supervision, and direction determined by the supervisory professor and student. PREREQ: Permission of coordinating professor and graduate director of science education. Application must be approved in the semester preceding the one in which the practicum is to be undertaken.

  
  • BIO 5350. Evolutionary Zoology (3 credits)


    A review of the basic workings of science, evolutionary concepts, and the animal kingdom. Topics will also include animal fossils, morphological & behavioral phylogeny, and human evolution.

  
  • BIO 5400. Natural History of Costa Rica (3 credits)


    An introduction to different ecosystems within Costa Rica. Students participate in field trips and excursions to study first-hand the biological complexities of the tropics. Students will experience cultural aspects of Costa Rica, discuss Costa Rica’s conservation ethic and the impact of humans on the environment. Offered in the summer of odd-numbered years; students spend two full weeks in Costa Rica.

  
  • BIO 5550. Independent Biology Research (3 credits)


    Advanced students carry out independent research activity relating to a significant problem in a major field of study in biology based on their interests. Supervised by a faculty member. Formal report and preparation required. PREREQ: Permission of the supervising professor and the graduate director of science education. Application must be approved in the semester preceding the one in which the independent research is to take place.

  
  • BIO 5770. Science in the Natural Environment (3 credits)


    An overview of the study of the natural environment and environmental education methods for science professionals and science educators, including design of and participation in experiential learning programs that emphasize environmental and nature studies. The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for the biological and environmental sciences is emphasized as students create maps, analyze spatial data, and create their own data from field observations. An emphasis is placed on wetland-related topics.