Biology Department

The major in biology leads to a Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree. The biology major is sufficiently flexible for students to prepare for a wide variety of professional careers. Carefully supervised career planning is a fundamental strength of the program.

The student majoring in biology may plan to enter the workplace upon graduation or continue study in graduate or professional school.

Biomedical Sciences emphasis encompasses prep for pre-professional programs including: pre-chiropractic, pre-optometry, pre-physical therapy, pre-occupational therapy, pre-pharmacy, pre-physician assistant, pre-podiatric medicine, pre-veterinary medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-medicine or pre-osteopathic medicine. Frequently, pre-professional study involves a combination of majors or a major and minor. For example, many pre-medical students choose a double major in biology and chemistry.

Each of the pre-professional programs has an advisor who can provide detailed and current information about the undergraduate work which the student should pursue to provide the foundation necessary for later entry into a professional school. The student should contact the specialized advisor as early as possible. A list of advisors is available in the departmental office (LS 210).

Biology majors also may seek teacher certification at the secondary level. Interested students may obtain a written description of specific degree requirements from the appropriate education and biology advisors.

Biology students who are considering attending graduate school should take one year of a world language and should plan to take the Graduate Record Examination during the senior year.

The biology department offers several emphasis areas:

Basic Biology
Biomedical Science
- Pre-Chiropractic
- Pre-Dental
- Pre-Medical (including Osteopathic, Podiatric and Optometric)
- Pre-Medical Laboratory Science
- Pre-Occupational Therapy
- Pre-Pharmacy
- Pre-Physical Therapy
- Pre-Physician Assistant
- Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Environmental Biosciences
Cellular and Molecular Biosciences (Including Forensics & Bioinformatics)
Biology/Chemistry Double Major
Biology Secondary Certification

Department Goals

To prepare students to become productive, accountable and responsible employees upon entering the work force;
To prepare students to enter and succeed in graduate or professional schools;
To develop in students a broad-based theoretical foundation supplemented by laboratory and field experience that allow individual observations, interpretations and applications; and
To allow those students seeking a minor in biology to supplement and strengthen the major field of study.

Elementary Teaching

See Liberal Studies with Science Emphasis

Institutional & General Education

Please refer to the General Education Requirements in the Academic Policies section of this catalog or refer to your individual department’s curriculum sheet.

Experiential Opportunities

There are many opportunities to participate in experiences that will complement and reinforce a student’s academic experience. The activities may be either on- or off-campus and may be used to develop leadership and interpersonal skills. The faculty of the biology department actively encourages student participation in such activities.

Wildlife & Natural Resources Program

Majoring in The Wildlife and Natural Resources Program leads to a Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree. In addition, supporting courses and general education courses in biology are available to meet a wide range of interests, backgrounds and needs. The Wildlife and Natural Resources Program emphasizes an understanding of fish and wildlife ecology and management with practical skills obtained during laboratory and field exercises. Graduates are prepared for positions with state and federal agencies, tribal departments, conservation organizations, and higher academic degrees. Carefully supervised career planning is provided to all students.

The Wildlife and Natural Resources Program offers Aquatic and Terrestrial emphasis areas, with curriculum for each meeting the certification requirements of the American Fisheries Society (AFS) or The Wildlife Society (TWS), respectively.

Graduate Programs in Natural Sciences

The College of Science and Mathematics offers Master of Science degrees in three disciplines within the Natural Sciences:

Biology MS,
Chemistry MS, and
Biochemistry MS

Students completing any of these degrees will develop advanced skills in the general discipline of choice and will apply these skills in the completion of a thesis research project or internship. GRE scores of at least 300 (verbal and quantitative) based on the current GRE exam are required for regular admission to GPNS programs.

Academic Programs

On This Page

Biology (BIOL)
Geology (GEOL)
Wildlife & Natural Resources (WANR)

Biology (BIOL)

Undergraduate Courses

BIOL 100 Principles of Biology 3(3-0)

Introduction to basic principles common to all facets of biology. Topics include a brief history of biology, the scientific method, the diversity of life, cell structure and reproduction, and metabolism. Corequisite: BIOL 100L. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

BIOL 100L Principles of Biology Lab 1(0-2)

To expose the student to problem-solving skills emphasizing the importance of observation and data accumulation. Corequisite: BIOL 100. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

BIOL 112 Nutrition 3(3-0)

Analysis of personal dietary habits and behavior in relation to basic human nutritional needs and food composition. (F, S)

BIOL 121 Environmental Conservation 3(3-0)

Historical review of humankind's interrelationship with and impact on the natural environment. Basic principles of ecology and current issues relating to the use of natural resources and environmental problems. Corequisite: BIOL 121L. (F, S, SS) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

BIOL 121L Environmental Conservation Lab 1(0-2)

Field studies to accompany BIOL 121. Corequisite: BIOL 121. (F, S, SS) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

BIOL 171 First Year Seminar 1(1-0)

Biology majors entering the program are provided guidance on studying and skills specific to science. Biological career diversity and planning for degree completion are discussed. (F, S)

BIOL 181 College Biology I/Organismal Bio 3(3-0)

Biological diversity and structure-function relationships, evolution and ecology. Prerequisite: Math placement at college algebra or higher. BIOL 100/100L is recommended. Corequisite: BIOL 181L. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

BIOL 181L College Biology I/Organismal Bio Lab 1(0-2)

College Biology I/Organismal Bio Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 181. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

BIOL 182 College Biology II/Cellular Biology 3(3-0)

Continuation of BIOL 181. Basic cell structure and function, reproduction and heredity. Prerequisite: BIOL 181 and 181L and CHEM 121 and 121L. Corequisite: BIOL 182L. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

BIOL 182L College Biology II/Cellular Bio Lab 1(0-2)

College Biology II/Cellular Bio Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 181 and 181L and CHEM 121 and 121L. Corequisite: BIOL 182. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

BIOL 183 College Biology I Recitation 1(1-0)

Critical thinking for College Biology I topics. Corequisite: BIOL 181. (F, S)

BIOL 184 College Biology II Recitation 1(1-0)

Critical thinking for College Biology II topics. Corequisite: BIOL 182. (F, S)

BIOL 184L PHAGE DISCOVERY 2(0-4)

BIOL 201 Botany 2(2-0)

Forms, basic structures, relationships, life histories and evolutionary trends of representatives of the major autotrophic plant groups. Prerequisite: BIOL 181 and 181L and BIOL 182 and 182L. Corequisite: BIOL 201L. (S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

BIOL 201L Botany Laboratory 2(0-4)

Botany Laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 181 and 181L and BIOL 182 and 182L. Corequisite: BIOL 201. (S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

BIOL 202 Zoology 2(2-0)

Study of structure, function, evolution, biodiversity, behavior, and ecology of vertebrates and invertebrates, including protozoans and human parasites. Prerequisite: BIOL 181 and181L and BIOL 182 and 182L. Corequisite: BIOL 202L. (F) (Gen Ed: ST)

BIOL 202L Zoology Laboratory 2(0-4)

Zoology Laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 181 and 181L and BIOL 182 and 182L. Corequisite: BIOL 202. (F) (Gen Ed: ST)

BIOL 203 Zoology Recitation 1(1-0)

Recitation to accompany BIOL 202. Corequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. (F)

BIOL 206 Introduction to Microbiology 3(3-0)

For students of nursing and allied health. Applied aspects of medical microbiology. Prerequisite: BIOL 100 and 100L or BIOL 223 and 223L; and CHEM 111 and 111L. Corequisite: BIOL 206L. (F)

BIOL 206L Introduction to Microbiology Lab 1(0-3)

Introduction to Microbiology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 206. (F)

BIOL 220 Medical Terminology 2(2-0)

Basic prefixes, word roots, combining forms and suffixes of medical terminology and human anatomy are covered, including pronunciation and patient charting. (S)

BIOL 223 Human Physiology and Anatomy I 3(3-0)

Study of human physiology and anatomy designed for students who require or desire a thorough understanding of the functional and structural aspects of the human body. Not for the majority of biology majors except Teacher Education. Topics include body orientation, physiologically important molecules, the cell, tissues, integument, skeleton, muscle, nervous system, and special senses. BIOL 100/100L and CHEM 111/111L are highly recommended. Corequisite: BIOL 223L. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

BIOL 223L Human Physiology and Anatomy I Lab 1(0-2)

Human Physiology and Anatomy I Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 223. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

BIOL 224 Human Physiology and Anatomy II 3(3-0)

Structure and function of the human body. Topics include endocrine systems, respiration, digestion, metabolism, excretion, fluid-electrolyte balance, cardiovascular and reproductive functions and special senses. Prerequisite: BIOL 223 and 223L. Corequisite: BIOL 224L. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

BIOL 224L Human Physiology and Anatomy II Lab 1(0-2)

Human Physiology and Anatomy II Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 224. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

BIOL 291 Special Topics (1-4 V)

Special Topics. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 292 Research (1-3 V)

Faculty directed research project for undergraduate student. Prerequisite: Approval of department chair. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (3).

BIOL 294 Field Experience (1-4 V)

Volunteer work experience under program director, department coordinator and faculty supervisor. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 301 General Microbiology 3(3-0)

Introduction to the bacteria and viruses, including microbial genetics and physiology. Prerequisite: BIOL 182 and 182L and CHEM 301 and 301L. CHEM 302 and 302L and MATH 221 are strongly recommended. Corequisite: BIOL 301L. (F)

BIOL 301L General Microbiology Lab 2(0-4)

General Microbiology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 301. (F)

BIOL 302 Medical Microbiology 2(2-0)

Survey of pathogenic bacteria, viruses and fungi. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 and 301L or BIOL 206 and 206L. Corequisite: BIOL 302L. (S, O)

BIOL 302L Medical Microbiology Lab 2(0-4)

Medical Microbiology Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 301L or BIOL 206L. Corequisite: BIOL 302. (S, O)

BIOL 321 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy 3(3-0)

Comparative study of developmental and functional anatomy of vertebrate animals. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 321L. (S)

BIOL 321L Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Lab 2(0-4)

Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 321. (S)

BIOL 350 Mendelian and Population Genetics 2(2-0)

Survey of basic Mendelian genetics, genetic mapping and population genetics. Prerequisite: BIOL 182 and 182L and MATH 121. MATH 156 is strongly recommended. (F, S)

BIOL 351 Molecular Biology and Genetics 2(2-0)

Study of the molecular flow of genetic information, gene regulation and cancer genetics. Prerequisite: BIOL 350 and CHEM 122 and 122L. (F, S)

BIOL 351L Molecular Biology and Genetics Laboratory 2(0-4)

BIOL 352 Evolutionary Biology and Ecology 3(3-0)

Historical view of the theory of evolution with emphasis on the relationship between organisms and the environment, and the mechanisms and forces that produce evolutionary change. Prerequisite: BIOL 181 and 181L and BIOL 182 and 182L. BIOL 350 recommended. (F, S)

BIOL 378 Laboratory in Teaching Biology 1(0-2)

Laboratory preparation, safety, instruction and methods under the guidance and supervision on an instructor. Prerequisite: Approval of instructor. (F, S) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 392 Research (1-3 V)

Faculty directed research project for undergraduate student. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits, total. Prerequisite: Approval of department chair. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (3).

BIOL 394 Field Experience (1-4 V)

Volunteer work experience under program director, program coordinator, and faculty supervisor. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 402 Immunology 3(3-0)

Cellular and molecular interactions and principles of innate and adaptive immunity including immune disorders, hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, infections, and cancer. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 and 301L. (S)

BIOL 403 Virology 3(3-0)

Molecular aspects of viral infection of bacteria, plants, and animals including viral replication, host range, host defenses, antiviral drugs, and viral ecology. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or BIOL 351. Corequisite: BIOL 403L. (F, E)

BIOL 403L Virology Lab 1(0-2)

Virology Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or BIOL 351. Corequisite: BIOL 403. (F, E)

BIOL 412 Cellular Biology 3(3-0)

Structural and functional organization of the cell, life cycles of cells, intracellular digestion, protein synthesis and cell death. Prerequisite: CHEM 301 and 301L and BIOL 301 and 301L and BIOL 351. CHEM 302 and302L is strongly recommended. Corequisite: BIOL 412L. (S)

BIOL 412L Cellular Biology Lab 1(0-3)

Cellular Biology Lab. Prerequisite: CHEM 301 and 301L and BIOL 301 and 301L, and BIOL 351. Corequisite: BIOL 412. (S)

BIOL 413 Plant Physiology 2(2-0)

Thorough examination of general physiology and function of plant body systems. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L and CHEM 301 and 301L. Corequisite: BIOL 413L. (S, O)

BIOL 413L Plant Physiology Lab 2(0-4)

Plant Physiology Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L and CHEM 301 and 301L. Corequisite: BIOL 413. (S, O)

BIOL 414 Vertebrate Physiology 3(3-0)

General physiology and the functions of animal and human body systems. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and CHEM 301 and 301L. CHEM 302 and 302L and MATH 156 are strongly recommended. Corequisite: BIOL 414L. (F)

BIOL 414L Vertebrate Physiology Lab 1(0-2)

Vertebrate Physiology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 414. (F)

BIOL 421 Histology 2(2-0)

A microscopic study of vertebrate tissues and organs. Prerequisite: BIOL 182 and 182L and CHEM 122 and 122L. Corequisite: BIOL 421L. (S, O)

BIOL 421L Histology Lab 2(0-4)

Histology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 421. (S, O)

BIOL 422 Neurobiology 3(3-0)

Fundamentals of neuroscience, cellular and molecular signaling in the nervous system, electrophysiological properties of neurons, sensory and motor systems, and cellular mechanisms of cognition. Prerequisite: BIOL 351. (S, E)

BIOL 432 Developmental Biology 2(2-0)

Theory and principles of the development of representative vertebrate and invertebrate animals, with particular emphasis on the frog, chick, and Drosophila. Prerequisite: BIOL 351. Corequisite: BIOL 432L. (AN)

BIOL 432L Developmental Biology Lab 2(0-4)

Developmental Biology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 432. (AN)

BIOL 440 Advanced Biotechniques 2(2-0)

Advanced laboratory-based class covering important cellular/molecular techniques and instruments. Topics include Flow cytometry, Advanced Microscopy, Molecular Cloning, CRISPR, Western Blots, and Quantitative PCR. Prerequisite: BIOL 351 and BIOL 301. Corequisite: BIOL 440L. (F, O)

BIOL 440L Advanced Biotechniques Lab 2(0-2)

BIOL 441 Freshwater Invertebrate Zoology 2(2-0)

Classification, phylogeny, systematics, morphology, physiology, and natural history of freshwater invertebrates inclusive of insects. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 441L. (S, O)

BIOL 441L Freshwater Invertebrate Zoology Lab 2(0-4)

Freshwater Invertebrate Zoology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 441. (S, O)

BIOL 443 Limnology 2(2-0)

Biology, chemistry and physics of lakes and rivers. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L and BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 443L. (S, E)

BIOL 443L Limnology Lab 2(0-4)

Limnology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 443. (S, E)

BIOL 452 Advanced Microscopy 2(2-0)

Theory and application of microscopy to the biological sciences. Includes preparation of cells and tissues for examination, scope, operation, and image analysis. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 and 301L or permission of instructor. Corequisite: BIOL 452L. (AN)

BIOL 452L Advanced Microscopy Lab 2(0-4)

Advanced Microscopy Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 452. (AN)

BIOL 453 Ecology 2(2-0)

Interrelationships among organisms and their environment, employing quantitative methods and conceptual models. Prerequisite: BIOL 352 and MATH 221 or MATH 126. Corequisite: BIOL 453L. (F, E)

BIOL 453L Ecology Field Studies 2(0-4)

Ecology Field Studies. Corequisite: BIOL 453. (F, E)

BIOL 454 Behavioral Ecology 3(3-0)

Evolution and adaptive significance of animal behaviors with a focus on current research. Prerequisite: BIOL 352 or permission of instructor. (F, O)

BIOL 460 Survey of Genomics and Bioinformatics 2(2-0)

BIOL 461 Applied Geospatial Technology (GIS/GPS) 3(3-0)

Theory and practice of using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) for geographic data analysis, and to georeference data. (F, O)

BIOL 462 Environmental Policy & Management 3(3-0)

Scientific basis of environmental regulations applied to air/water quality, solid waste, and hazardous waste; technologies and procedures used by generators to achieve compliance. Prerequisite: BIOL 352. (S, O)

BIOL 465 Environmental Toxicology 3(3-0)

Basic principles of toxicology, interaction of xenobiotics with living organisms and the environment, and the impact of pollutants on the ecosystem. Prerequisite: BIOL 181 and 181L and BIOL 182 and 182L. CHEM 302 and 302L is strongly recommended. (F, E)

BIOL 473 Med. Tech. Clinical Rotation I 12(5-14)

Coursework and clinical training in an affiliated medical laboratory sciences facility. Specific course of study determined by facility. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. (AN)

BIOL 474 Med. Tech. Clinical Rotation II 12(5-14)

Coursework and clinical training in an affiliated medical laboratory sciences facility. Specific course of study determined by facility. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. (AN)

BIOL 475 Med. Tech. Clinical Rotation III 6(3-6)

Coursework and clinical training in an affiliated medical laboratory sciences facility. Specific course of study determined by facility. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. (AN)

BIOL 479 Ichthyology 2(2-0)

The morphology, taxonomy and ecology of fishes; an introduction to fishery biology and aquaculture. Field trips are an integral part of the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 479L. (F, O)

BIOL 479L Ichthyology Laboratory 1(0-2)

Ichthyology Laboratory. Corequisite: BIOL 479. (F, O)

BIOL 481 Entomology 2(2-0)

Evolutionary biology and management of insects. Impact of arthropods on the balance of nature. Medical and veterinary entomology. Arthropods as vectors of human and animal diseases. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 481L. (F, O)

BIOL 481L Entomology Lab 1(0-2)

Entomology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 481. (F, O)

BIOL 482 Herpetology 2(2-0)

Diversity, anatomy, physiology, evolution, and ecology of reptiles of amphibians. Emphasis will be placed on novel evolutionary adaptations within the major taxa. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 482L. (AN)

BIOL 482L Herpetology Lab 1(0-1)

Herpetology Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 482. (AN)

BIOL 483 Mammalogy 2(2-0)

Evolution, classification and biology of mammals; practice in identifying and preparing specimens. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 483L. (S, E)

BIOL 483L Mammalogy Lab 1(0-2)

Mammalogy Lab Corequisite: BIOL 483. (S, E)

BIOL 484 Ornithology 2(2-0)

Classification, life history, laboratory and field identification of birds. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 484L. (S, O)

BIOL 484L Ornithology Lab 1(0-2)

Ornithology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 484. (S, O)

BIOL 485 Plant Taxonomy 2(2-0)

Identification of the common vascular plant families of Colorado with an emphasis on the flowering plants; study of their systematic relationships. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L. Corequisite: BIOL 485L. (F)

BIOL 485L Plant Taxonomy Lab 2(0-4)

Plant Taxonomy Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 485. (F)

BIOL 486 Field Botany 3(3-0)

Principles and applications of field techniques used in vegetation assessment, surveys, and vegetation monitoring. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L. (AN)

BIOL 491 Special Topics (1-4 V)

Special Topics. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 492 Research (1-3 V)

Faculty directed research project for undergraduate student. Prerequisite: Approval of department chair. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (3).

BIOL 493 Seminar 1(1-0)

Seminar for majors and minors concerning unique, current, or unusual topics in biology. Speakers may include guests, faculty, or students. Required of majors. Prerequisite: Senior standing and completion of all biology core courses. (F, S)

BIOL 494 Field Experience (1-4 V)

Volunteer work experience under program director, program coordinator and faculty supervisor. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 495 Independent Study (1-4 V)

Prerequisite: junior standing, biology major, permission of instructor and department. Prerequisite: Junior standing and biology major and permission of instructor and department. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 498 Internship (5-15 V)

Work experience in the Biology discipline under the combined supervision of the selected organization and a faculty member. Prerequisite: Permission of department chair. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

Graduate Courses

BIOL 502 Immunology 3(3-0)

BIOL 503 Virology 3(3-0)

BIOL 503L Virology Lab 1(0-2)

Virology Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 301 or BIOL 351. Corequisite: BIOL 503. (F, E)

BIOL 505 Foundations in Graduate Studies 3(3-0)

BIOL 510 Foundations in Graduate Studies 3(3-0)

Laboratory safety. Effective sourcing, use, and interpretation of the literature. Scientific methodology, writing, and review of research ethics. Development of a thesis or internship plan. Prerequisite: Admission to MS program. (F)

BIOL 512 Cellular Biology 3(3-0)

Structural and functional organization of the cell, life cycles of cells, intracellular digestion, protein synthesis and cell death. Prerequisite: CHEM 301 and301L and BIOL 301 and 301L, and BIOL 351. CHEM 302 and 302L is strongly recommended. Corequisite: BIOL 512L. (S)

BIOL 512L Cellular Biology Lab 1(0-3)

Cellular Biology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 512. (S)

BIOL 513 Plant Physiology 2(2-0)

Thorough examination of general physiology and function of plant body systems. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L and CHEM 301 and 301L. Corequisite: BIOL 513L. (S, O)

BIOL 513L Plant Physiology Lab 2(0-4)

Plant Physiology Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L and CHEM 301 and 301L. Corequisite: BIOL 513. (S, O)

BIOL 514 Vertebrate Physiology 3(3-0)

BIOL 514L Vertebrate Physiology Lab 1(0-1)

Vertebrate Physiology Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and CHEM 301 and 301L. CHEM 302 and 302L and MATH 156 are strongly recommended. Corequisite: BIOL 514. (F)

BIOL 521 Histology 2(2-0)

A microscopic study of vertebrate tissues and organs. Prerequisite: BIOL 182 and 182L and CHEM 122 and 122L. Corequisite: BIOL 521L. (S, O)

BIOL 521L Histology Lab 2(0-4)

Histology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 521. (S, O)

BIOL 522 Neurobiology 3(3-0)

BIOL 532 Developmental Biology 2(2-0)

BIOL 532L Developmental Biology Lab 2(0-4)

Developmental Biology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 532. (AN)

BIOL 540 Advanced Biotechniques 2(2-0)

BIOL 540L Advanced Biotechniques Lab 2(0-2)

BIOL 541 Freshwater Invertebrate Zoology 2(2-0)

Classification, phylogeny, systematics, morphology, physiology, and natural history of freshwater invertebrates inclusive of insects. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 541L. (S, O)

BIOL 541L Freshwater Invertebrate Zoology Lab 2(0-4)

Freshwater Invertebrate Zoology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 541. (S, O)

BIOL 543 Limnology 2(2-0)

Biology, chemistry, and physics of lakes and rivers. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L and BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 543L. (S, E)

BIOL 543L Limnology Lab 2(0-4)

Limnology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 543. (S, E)

BIOL 548 Biological Statistics 3(3-0)

BIOL 552 Advanced Microscopy 2(2-0)

Theory and application of microscopy to the biological sciences. Includes preparation of cells and tissues for examination, scope operation, and image analysis. Corequisite: BIOL 552L. (AN)

BIOL 552L Advanced Microscopy Lab 2(0-4)

Advanced Microscopy Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 552. (AN)

BIOL 553 Ecology 2(2-0)

Interrelationships among organisms and their environment, employing quantitative methods and conceptual models. Prerequisite: BIOL 352 and MATH 221. Corequisite: BIOL 553L. (F, E)

BIOL 553L Ecology Field Studies 2(0-4)

Ecology Field Studies. Corequisite: BIOL 553. (F, E)

BIOL 554 Behavioral Ecology 3(3-0)

Evolution and adaptive significance of animal behaviors with a focus on current research. Prerequisite: BIOL 352 or permission of instructor. (F, O)

BIOL 559 Comprehensive Exam 1(1-0)

BIOL 560 Survey of Genomics and Bioinformatics 2(2-0)

BIOL 561 Applied Geospatial Technology (GIS/GPS) 3(3-0)

Theory and practice of using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) for geographic data analysis, and to georeference data. (F, O)

BIOL 562 Environmental Policy & Management 3(3-0)

BIOL 565 Environmental Toxicology 3(3-0)

Basic principles of toxicology, interaction of the xenobiotics with living organisms and the environment, and the impact of pollutants on the ecosystem. Prerequisite: BIOL 182 and 182L. CHEM 302 is strongly recommended. (F, E)

BIOL 568 Evolution 3(3-0)

BIOL 577 Current Issues in Biology 1(1-0)

BIOL 578 Practicum in Laboratory Instruction 1(0-2)

Laboratory preparation, instruction, and methods under the guidance and supervision of a professor. Prerequisite: Graduate standing or permission of department chair. (F, S) Repeatable (4).

BIOL 579 Ichthyology 2(2-0)

BIOL 579L Ichthyology Laboratory 1(0-2)

Ichthyology Laboratory. Corequisite: BIOL 579. (F, O)

BIOL 581 Entomology 2(2-0)

BIOL 581L Entomology Lab 1(0-2)

Entomology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 581. (F, O)

BIOL 582 Herpetology 2(2-0)

BIOL 582L Herpetology Lab 1(0-1)

Herpetology Lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 582. (AN)

BIOL 583 Mammalogy 2(2-0)

Evolution, classification and biology of mammals; practice in identifying and preparing specimens. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 583L. (S, E)

BIOL 583L Mammalogy Lab 1(0-2)

Mammalogy Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 583. (S, E)

BIOL 584 Ornithology 2(2-0)

Classification, life history, laboratory and field identification of birds. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 and 202L. Corequisite: BIOL 584L. (S, O)

BIOL 584L Ornithology Lab 1(0-2)

Ornithology Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 584. (S, O)

BIOL 585 Plant Taxonomy 2(2-0)

Identification of common vascular plant families of Colorado with an emphasis on the flowering plants; study of their systematic relationships. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 and 201L. Corequisite: BIOL 585L. (F)

BIOL 585L Plant Taxonomy Lab 2(0-4)

Plant Taxonomy Lab. Corequisite: BIOL 585. (F)

BIOL 586 Field Botany 3(3-0)

Principles and applications of field techniques used in vegetation assessment, surveys, and vegetation monitoring. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (AN)

BIOL 588 Internship Seminar 1(1-0)

Graduate internship presentation and examination for completion of MS degree option within the Graduate Programs in Natural Sciences. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (F, S, SS)

BIOL 589 Thesis Defense 1(1-0)

Thesis presentation for completion of MS degree option within the Graduate Programs in Natural Sciences. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (F, S, SS)

BIOL 591 Special Topics (1-4 V)

Special Topics. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 592 Research (1-6 V)

Faculty directed research project for graduate students. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and approval of department chair or program director. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

BIOL 593 Seminar 1(1-0)

An interdisciplinary seminar on topics appropriate to the application of natural sciences. Prerequisite: BIOL 510. (AN)

BIOL 595 Independent Study (1-4 V)

Prerequisite: graduate standing, biology major, permission of instructor and department. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and biology major and permission of instructor and department. (F, S, SS)

BIOL 598 Internship (1-4 V)

Volunteer or paid work experience under the combined supervision of the selected organization and a faculty member. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (F, S, SS)

BIOL 599 Thesis Research (1-6 V)

Continued enrollment is dependent upon satisfactory progress in thesis work. Prerequisite: Graduate standing and approval of department chair. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (6).

Geology (GEOL)

Undergraduate Courses

GEOL 101 Earth Science 3(3-0)

Four earth spheres: the hydrosphere (oceanography, hydrologic cycle); the atmosphere (meteorology and climatology); the lithosphere (geology; internal and external processes); and space are emphasized. Corequisite: GEOL 101L. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

GEOL 101L Earth Science Lab 1(0-2)

Lab to accompany GEOL 101 lecture. Corequisite: GEOL 101. (F, S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

GEOL 114 Oceanography 3(3-0)

Study of world oceans and their role in the Earth system, including chemical, physical, geological, meteorological and biological aspects of the sea. Corequisite: GEOL 114L. (S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC2)

GEOL 114L Oceanography Lab 1(0-2)

Lab to accompany GEOL 114 lecture. Corequisite: GEOL 114. (S) (Gen Ed: ST, GT-SC1)

Wildlife & Natural Resources (WANR)

Undergraduate Courses

WANR 291 Special Topics 1-4(1-4to)

WANR 302 Principles of Wildlife Management 3(2-2)

WANR 303 Nat Resource Policy & Admin 3(3-0)

Principles and concepts of public land and resources policy, administrative decision making, and contemporary issues and problems. (AN)

WANR 304 Human Dimensions in Nat Res Mgmt 3(3-0)

Science of incorporating human-natural resource relationships with traditional biological sciences information in decision-making processes. (AN)

WANR 401 Fisheries Science 2(2-0)

Principles and concepts of studying structure and dynamics of fish populations. Topics include estimating abundance, mortality, sustainable harvest levels, appropriate regulations. Prerequisite: MATH 221 and BIOL 479 and 479L. Corequisite: WANR 401L. (AN)

WANR 401L Fisheries Science Lab 1(0-2)

WANR 402 Management of Endangered Species 3(3-0)

Problems and solutions of species endangerment. Political and biological aspects to endangered species. Proactive and reactive maintenance and restoration. Prerequisite: WANR 302. (AN)

WANR 410 Aquaculture 3(2-2)

WANR 421 Wildlife Conservation 3(2-2)

WANR 430 Wildlife and Fisheries Techniques 4(0-8)

WANR 475 Science Communication 3(3-0)

WANR 485 Wildlife Research Discussion 1(1-0)

WANR 487 R Code Introduction 1(0-2)

WANR 491 Special Topics 1-4(1-4to)

2020-2021 Catalog

Academic Catalog

Biology Department

Department Goals

Elementary Teaching

Institutional & General Education

Experiential Opportunities

Wildlife & Natural Resources Program

Graduate Programs in Natural Sciences

Academic Programs

Biology (BIOL)

Undergraduate Courses

Graduate Courses

Geology (GEOL)

Undergraduate Courses

Wildlife & Natural Resources (WANR)

Undergraduate Courses

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