Apr 29, 2024  
College Catalog 2016-2017 
    
College Catalog 2016-2017 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 The following is a complete listing of the courses offered at Elizabethtown College. Use the filter to narrow your search.

 

Biology Courses

  
  • BIO 101 - NPS Biological Concepts

    4.00 credits.
    (Natural and Physical Science Core Course)
    Designed for the non-biology major. This course will present an overview of the major biological concepts and ideas emphasizing their relevance to our daily lives. The course is designed to stimulate discussion of current biological issues and is intended to provide an understanding of the basic mechanisms of life. *Students who have taken BIO 111  may not take this course. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3.
  
  • BIO 102 - NPS Human Heredity and Inherited Diseases

    4.00 credits.
    (Natural and Physical Science Core Course)
    An overview of human heredity, providing the tools needed to make informed decisions on a variety of health-related issues with information on disease, medical technology, genetic engineering and biotechnology, and environmental factors affecting human health. As part of the laboratory, each student isolates copies of a small portion of his or her own mitochondrial DNA. Students work with international DNA databases to compare their DNA sequences to those from their classmates, from people around the world, and from ancient Neanderthal DNA, allowing them to observe evolution in a very personal way. *Corequisite(s): BIO 102L. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3.
  
  • BIO 103 - NPS Living with the Environment

    4.00 credits.
    (Natural and Physical Science Core Course)
    A lecture/laboratory course designed for non-science majors. Principles of environmental relationships and how living organisms play a role in those relationships and respond to changes in their environment are emphasized. Current problems with pollution, hazardous wastes, energy and population growth are examined in relation to those environmental principles. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3.
  
  • BIO 111 - Molecules, Cells, and Animal Systems

    4.00 credits.
    The study of the chemical and cellular basis of life, human and animal anatomy and physiology, cellular reproduction, heredity and animal development. For Biology majors and those students taking additional biology courses. This course fulfills one of the Natural and Physical Sciences Core requirements for Biology majors. *Corequisite(s): BIO 111L. *This course may not be taken for credit after completing BIO 101  without permission of the Department Chair. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3. Students must achieve an average grade of C- or above in BIO 111 and BIO 112 to continue in the major.
  
  • BIO 112 - Principles of Evolution, Ecology, and Diversity of Life

    4.00 credits.
    The evolution and diversity of organisms is examined by comparing representative forms of the five kingdoms and viruses. Discussion of plant structure and function and ecological principles is included. For Biology majors or those taking additional biology courses. *Corequisite(s): BIO 112L. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3. Students must achieve an average grade of C- or above in BIO 111 and BIO 112 to continue in the major.
  
  • BIO 200 - NPS Human Anatomy and Physiology: The Basics

    4.00 credits.
    (Natural and Physical Sciences Core Course)
    This course is an overview of the structure and function of the human integumentary, skeletal, muscular, digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and endocrine systems. Particular attention is given to dysfunction and diseases of the neuromuscular systems in populations commonly treated by music therapists. The laboratory will involve the observation of a prosected human cadaver, and small group work on experiments and a series of clinical case studies meant to reinforce anatomical and physiological principles discussed in lecture.
  
  • BIO 201 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I

    4.00 credits.
    The study of structure and function of the human integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and endocrine systems. Particular attention is given to structure and function as it relates to dysfunction and disease. Laboratory work involves dissection of a human cadaver. Enrollment limited to occupational therapy, music therapy and allied health majors. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 101  or BIO 111 , or permission of instructor. *Corequisite(s): BIO 201L. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 202 - Human Anatomy and Physiology II

    4.00 credits.
    A continuation of BIO 201 . The study of structure and function of the human circulatory, respiratory, excretory, digestive and reproductive systems. Emphasis on these systems as they relate to homeostasis and disease. Laboratory work involves cat dissection and “hands-on” manipulation of instruments useful to the health profession student. Enrollment limited to occupational therapy, music therapy and allied health majors. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 201 . *Corequisite(s): BIO 202L. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 211 - Genetics

    4.00 credits.
    An integrated and comprehensive review of classical, neo-Mendelian principles of heredity and molecular biology. Laboratory work involves Drosophila crosses and basic techniques employed for molecular investigations. *Prerequisite(s): An average grade of C- or better in BIO 111  and BIO 112 . *Corequisite(s): BIO 211L. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 212 - Cell Biology

    3.00 credits.
    Study of the cell from a molecular perspective and integrated approach. Morphological and physiological study of cells, cell mechanisms, and cell organelles are explained through understanding the interaction of biological molecules. Laboratory involves qualitative and quantitative investigations of cellular and molecular construction of enzymatic pathways through various extraction and analysis techniques. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 211  or permission of instructor. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 212L - Cell Biology Laboratory

    1.00 credit.
    Required for the Biotechnology major. The laboratory exercises demonstrate many of the important cell biology principles covered in the lecture course (BIO 212 ). *Corequisite(s): BIO 212 . Register by Instructor. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 220 - Nutrition

    4.00 credits.
    This course serves as an introduction to nutrition as it relates to biology and science. We will focus on the importance and role of the major nutrients and discuss how these nutrients are acquired and analyzed by the body. In addition, we will discuss the role of nutrition in the development, health and well-being of the individual. These concepts will be applied to personal health through nutritional assessment and dietary planning. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 111 . Hours: lecture 3, discussion 1. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 225 - Geographic Information Systems: Fundamentals and Applications

    4.00 credits.
    Everything that happens, happens somewhere. A geographic information system (GIS) is a tool to evaluate the importance of that “somewhere.” Students will learn the fundamental scientific and technological principles underlying GIS and gain hands-on experience designing and using a GIS in real-world applications. Spring semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 235 - General Microbiology

    4.00 credits.
    A study of the morphological, physiological and ecological characteristics of bacteria, as well as disease transmission and principles of control. A laboratory gives practice in the isolation and identification of bacteria. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 112  and CH 105  or CH 213 , or permission of instructor. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 4. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 310 - Molecular Biology

    3.00 credits.
    An upper-level course stressing study of current developments in molecular biology. Particular emphasis will be placed upon the theory of investigative molecular techniques. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 111 . Hours: 3. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 310L - Molecular Biology Laboratory

    1.00 credit.
    The molecular biology laboratory experiments offer hands-on experience with the modern techniques of molecular biology. Students become proficient in the techniques of cloning, agarose gel electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction and DNA mutagenesis. Laboratory report writing skills are emphasized. *Corequisite(s): BIO 310 . Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 311 - Experimental Design in Cell Biology

    4.00 credits.
    A practical and theoretical examination of current techniques employed to study cellular biology. Proficiencies in experimental design, data collection, data analysis, and critical review of current literature are developed. Mammalian and plant tissue culture techniques, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, polyacrylamide and capillary electrophoresis, western analysis, and cellular apoptosis assessed by electron microscopy are emphasized. *Prerequisite(s): 15 credit hours of biology, including BIO 212 , and eight credit hours of chemistry. Register by Instructor. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 313 - General Ecology

    3.00 credits.
    The relationships between plants, animals and their environment are investigated with regard to energy flow, mineral cycling, physical and chemical parameters, population changes and community structure. *Prerequisite(s): 16 credit hours of biology or permission of instructor. Hours: 3. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 313L - General Ecology Laboratory

    1.00 credit.
    Use of techniques and instrumentation for aquatic and terrestrial field studies, experimentation in such areas as population growth, competition, productivity and mineral cycling. *Corequisite(s): BIO 313 . Hours: 4. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 314 - Behavioral Neurobiology

    4.00 credits.
    This course aims to provide a comprehensive overview of behavioral neurobiology, with special emphasis on the neuroethological approach.  Through lecture and primary literature discussions, students will gain a contemporary understanding of the historical development of the behavioral sciences, the major ethological and neurobiological concepts, and the principle mechanisms that govern behavior in animals and humans. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 111  or PSY 111 .
  
  • BIO 317 - Aquatic Ecology

    4.00 credits.
    The study of physical, chemical and biological relationships in aquatic ecosystems as they relate to the survival and growth of organisms. The course will include laboratory and field experimentation using local aquatic ecosystems. *Prerequisite(s): 15 credit hours of biology and eight credit hours of chemistry. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 4. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 318 - Marine Biology

    3.00 credits.
    A study of the chemical and physical characteristics of marine ecosystems and the functional adaptations of marine organisms to those systems. Representative marine communities including rocky intertidal and coral reefs are examined in detail. The impacts of humans on marine environments also are discussed. *Prerequisite(s): Eight credit hours of biology and four credit hours of chemistry. Hours: 3. Spring semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 320 - Conservation Biology

    4.00 credits.
    Conservation biology is an applied scientific discipline devoted to understanding and preserving the world’s biodiversity. We will examine in lecture and through a series of case studies how basic ecological principles are being applied to preserve biodiversity. The case studies will highlight conservation at the species, community, ecosystem, and biosphere levels and societal aspects of conservation. We will also experience local biodiversity via field trips, civic engagement, and species identification sessions. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 112  or permission of the instructor. Spring semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 322 - Immunology

    3.00 credits.
    A basic course encompassing immunity, serology, immunochemistry and immunobiology. Considered are antigenic specificity, humoral and cellular effector mechanisms, hypersensitivities, immunogenetics, tolerance and enhancement, tissue and tumor immunity, as well as recent methodological advances. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 112  or permission of instructor. Hours: 3. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 322L - Immunology Laboratory

    1.00 credit.
    The immunology laboratory experiments demonstrate many of the research methods currently utilized for studying immunology. This includes ELISA, flow cytometry, cell culture and cellular cytotoxicity assays. Emphasis is placed upon assessing cellular and humoral effector mechanisms in vivo experimentation. *Corequisite(s): BIO 322 . Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 324 - General Physiology

    3.00 credits.
    A functional study of vertebrate organs and organ systems. Attention focused on similarities and specialization in relation to function, with emphasis on functional adaptations to the environment. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 112  or permission of instructor. Hours: 3. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 324L - General Physiology Laboratory

    1.00 credit.
    An investigation of selected physiological mechanisms, employing spectrophotometers, datagraphs, spirometers, oscilloscopes, electrocardiographs, electrophoresis and animal surgical techniques. *Corequisite(s): BIO 324 . Hours: 4. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 326 - Concepts of Virology and Virus Research

    2.00 credits.
    An introduction to viruses and the strategies that they use to cause disease. In addition, the course will focus on four viruses, with different replication strategies including the poliovirus, influenza virus, herpes simplex virus and simian virus 40. The course will allow students to increase their understanding of experimental strategies used to investigate viruses and use the topic of viruses as a means to analyze and critically evaluate the scientific literature. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 212  or BIO 324 . Graded Pass/No Pass. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 335 - Microbial Ecology and Diversity

    4.00 credits.
    An intensive look at the physiology of microorganisms and how microbial metabolism plays a role in the cycling of nutrients in nature. Students will be exposed to the techniques commonly used to study microorganisms in their natural environment. The concepts of using microorganisms for bioremediation also will be discussed. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 235  or permission of instructor. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 4. Fall semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 336 - Pathogenic Microbiology

    3.00 credits.
    An intensive study of the disease-causing microorganisms of humans. General epidemiology and cellular processes of pathogenesis of bacteria and viruses will be examined. The human immune system also will be covered in context of how bacteria and viruses subvert host defenses to infect, survive and grow in the host. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 235  or permission of instructor. Hours: lecture 3. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 336L - Pathogenic Microbiology Lab

    1.00 credit.
    Experience with a variety of techniques important in the study of pathogenesis will be covered in this course, including microbial culture techniques, extraction of DNA, PCR, cloning and use of sequence databases and DNA analysis programs to identify functional genes. This course will be used to teach research as a process and involves the development of a research proposal. *Corequisite(s): BIO 336 . Hours: 3. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 341 - Comparative Mammalian Anatomy

    4.00 credits.
    A comparative and embryological study of the morphology of selected representatives from the class Mammalia. Laboratory work involves dissection and demonstration of organisms from select mammalian species. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 112 . Hours: lecture 2, laboratory 4. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 347 - Invertebrate Zoology

    4.00 credits.
    A study of the evolution of invertebrate animals from simple to complex forms, structural and functional similarities and differences, and the evolutionary trends necessary for an understanding of basic adaptive features. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 112  or permission of instructor. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 3. Fall semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 352 - Developmental Biology

    3.00 credits.
    A study of how differential gene expression, physical properties of cells, and signaling between cells contribute to development from a fertilized egg into a complex adult animal. Changes in development underlying evolutionary changes in animal form and effects of pollutants and other environmental factors on development are discussed. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 211 . Hours: 3. Fall semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 352L - Developmental Biology Laboratory

    1.00 credit.
    Techniques such as grafting tissue and staining with vital dyes and antibodies are used. Experiments address questions about cell-cell signaling, differentiation, evolution of gene families, regeneration, and effects of UV radiation and pesticides on early vertebrate development. *Corequisite(s): BIO 352 . Hours: 3. Fall semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 354 - Molecular Evolution

    3.00 credits.
    Basic principles of evolutionary biology, together with their application to explain organismal properties at all levels, from DNA to behavior are covered, with emphasis on DNA and protein evolution. *Prerequisite(s): BIO 211 . Hours: 3. Fall semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 354L - Molecular Evolution Laboratory

    1.00 credit.
    Experience with a variety of techniques important in the study of evolution at the molecular level, including extraction of DNA and RNA from diverse tissue types, PCR, cloning, and use of sequence databases and DNA analysis programs to identify cloned sequence. *Corequisite(s): BIO 354 . Hours: 3. Fall semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 362 - Ecotoxicology

    4.00 credits.
    The study of the fate and transport of toxic compounds in the environment. The toxicity of individual pollutants at the organismal, species, population and community levels is discussed. Risk assessment and risk management in ecological systems also are discussed. The course includes laboratory experimentation. *Prerequisite(s): 15 credit hours of biology and eight credit hours of chemistry. Hours: lecture 3, laboratory 4. Spring semester, alternate years.
  
  • BIO 370-378 - Special Topics in Biology

    Variable credit.
    Courses of a specialized nature reflecting the interests of students and instructor. Courses are offered on a random basis. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • BIO 412 - Seminar in Biology

    1.00 credit.
    Students will read and discuss articles in the biological literature dealing with major advances in biology. A paper and oral presentation on a subject related to the discussion is required. *Prerequisite(s): Senior standing. Signature Learning Experience: Capstone Experience. Register by Instructor. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 473 - Advanced Internship in Biology

    12.00 credits.
    This specialized internship experience is conducted off campus and supervised by a professional in the area. These experiences will be typically, but not limited to, industrial or academic laboratory work, fieldwork in medicine, public or the allied health disciplines. A maximum of twelve credit hours from Biology 473 may count as biology electives. Additional credits count as free electives. *Prerequisite(s): Senior standing, majors, 2.70 cumulative grade point average with a 3.00 grade point average in the major. Must be taken for a full semester off campus for free elective credit only. Signature Learning Experience: Internship. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor
  
  • BIO 474 - Internship in Biological Sciences

    Variable (0.00 to 4.00) credit(s).
    Work experience in a biological science-related field, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, health care, analytical laboratories and state agencies. A maximum of four credit hours from Biology 474 may count as biology electives. Additional credits count as free electives. *Prerequisite(s): At least junior standing. Signature Learning Experience: Internship. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • BIO 480-489 - Independent Study in Biology

    Variable credit.
    Opportunity for advanced students to engage in independent study on a topic of choice. *Prerequisite(s): Approval of Department Chair and Independent Study Committee. Register by Instructor. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • BIO 491 - Research in Biology

    Variable credit.
    An original research investigation planned and performed by students in consultation with faculty. A paper is written and major findings are presented orally to faculty and peers. Students must obtain permission of the professor who they wish to serve as their research mentor before enrolling in the course. A maximum of four credit hours from Biology 491 and 492 combined can count as biology electives. Additional credits count as free electives. A research experience totaling four credits is required for Honors in Biology. *Prerequisite: at least junior standing. *Prerequisite(s): At least junior standing. Signature Learning Experience: Supervised Research. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor. Fall semester. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • BIO 492 - Research in Biology

    Variable credit.
    An original research investigation planned and performed by students in consultation with faculty. Students must obtain permission of the professor who they wish to serve as their research mentor before enrolling in the course. A maximum of four credit hours from Biology 491 and 492 combined can count as biology electives. Additional credits count as free electives. A research experience totaling four credits is required for Honors in Biology. *Prerequisite(s): At least a junior standing. Signature Learning Experience: Supervised Research. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor. Spring semester. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • BIO 527 - Fundamentals of Molecular Medicine IV – Immunology and Immunopathology

    3.00 credits.
    Basic knowledge of immunity from the organism to the cellular level. The subject matter will focus upon how the immune system elicits protection against invasion by pathogenic organisms, and how these same responses may be damaging to the host. This course is provided through Drexel University College of Medicine for students in the 4+1 Biotechnology-Molecular Medicine cooperative program. Register by Instructor. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 530 - Fundamentals in Molecular Medicine I

    3.00 credits.
    This course will provide a broad foundation of information in the biological sciences, with a more pronounced focus on the information necessary for the biotechnological industrial environment. This course represents an overview of key topics in the areas of biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics. This course is provided through Drexel University College of Medicine for students in the 4+1 Biotechnology-Molecular Medicine cooperative program. Register by Instructor. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 531 - Fundamentals in Molecular Medicine II

    2.00 credits.
    This course (MIIM-531) represents an overview of key topics in the area of cell biology, cell physiology and their derangement in infectious disease. In addition to general principles, several individual cell types of wide biomedical importance will be examined in detail. This course is provided through Drexel University College of Medicine for students in the 4+1 Biotechnology-Molecular Medicine cooperative program. Register by Instructor. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 533 - Fundamentals of Molecular Medicine V – Research Discussion and Problem Solving I

    1.00 credit.
    This course will be an adjunct course to the Fundamentals of Molecular Medicine course BIO 531 (Fundamentals of Molecular Medicine II). It will serve as a forum for discussion of the primary literature as it relates directly to the topics covered as lecture material in MIIM-531. The course will be of a Journal Club format. Each student will choose, in consultation with the instructor for a given week of MIIM-531, a recent paper from the primary literature, and prepare an oral presentation that will serve as a summary and critique of the paper. This course is provided through Drexel University College of Medicine for students in the 4+1 Biotechnology-Molecular Medicine cooperative program. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 534 - Fundamentals of Molecular Medicine VI

    1.00 credit.
    This course will be an adjunct course to the Fundamentals of Molecular Medicine course BIO 530  Fundamentals of Molecular Medicine I. It will serve as a forum for discussion of the primary literature as it relates directly to the topics covered as lecture material in BIO 530. The course will be of a Journal Club format. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 540 - Virus and Viral Infections

    2.00 credits.
    This course will serve as an introduction to the basic aspects of the biology of viruses and viral infections, introducing concepts that relate to viral structure, replication and infection. The course is a requirement for the successful completion of the MS in Molecular Medicine from Drexel University College of Medicine. Register by Instructor. Fall semester.
  
  • BIO 541 - Bacteria and Bacterial Infections

    2.00 credits.
    This course will serve as an introduction to the basic aspects of the biology of bacteria and bacterial infections, introducing concepts that relate to organism structure, replication and infection. The course is a requirement for the successful completion of the MS in Molecular Medicine from Drexel University College of Medicine. Register by Instructor. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 542 - Mycology, Fungal Infections and Antibiotics

    2.00 credits.
    This course will serve as an introduction to the basic aspects of the biology of mycology and fungal infections, introducing concepts that relate to microorganism structure, replication and infection. The course will also focus on the structure and function of antibiotics and anti-fungal therapies. The course is a requirement for the successful completion of the MS in Molecular Medicine from Drexel University College of Medicine. Register by Instructor. Spring semester.
  
  • BIO 543 - Parasites and Parasitic Infections

    2.00 credits.
    This course will serve as an introduction to the basic aspects of the biology of parasites and parasitic infections, introducing concepts that relate to microorganism structure, replication and infection. The course will also focus on the diversity of modes of infection and parasite life cycles, and the development of therapies. The course is a requirement for the successful completion of the MS in Molecular Medicine from Drexel University College of Medicine. Register by Instructor. Spring semester.