College of Letters & Sciences
  1. UW-Whitewater College of Letters and Sciences
  2. Departments
  3. Biological Sciences (Biology)
  4. Course Descriptions

Biological Sciences

Contact Information

Kerry Katovich
Department Chair & Associate Professor
Phone: 262-472-5132
Location: Upham Hall 309

Course Descriptions

  • BIOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS
    Biological Sciences 120, Credits: 4

    A terminal course designed to introduce basic principles of life, such as structure and function, reproduction, evolution, diversity, and adaptation, leading to a broader understanding of humans and their biological environment. Not applicable to biology emphases or minors. Three lectures and two hours of laboratory per week.

  • INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY I
    Biological Sciences 141, Credits: 5

    An introduction to biology emphasizing the chemistry of life, the cell, metabolism, genetics, bacteria and protists. Three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion and two hours of laboratory per week. This course is prerequisite to all advanced courses in biology for majors and minors. Offered every term.

  • INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY II
    Biological Sciences 142, Credits: 5

    An introduction to biology emphasizing evolution, animal physiology, ecology, fungal, plant and animal diversity. Dissections are required. Three hours of lecture, one hour of discussion and two hours of laboratory per week. This course is prerequisite to all advanced courses in biology for majors and minors. Offered every term.

  • SEX, GENDER, AND HEALTH
    Biological Sciences 180, Credits: 3

    This course explores the reproductive and sexual functions of human bodies, as well as the scientific and social influences on those bodies. By examining sex, reproduction, and aging, this course uses intersectional lenses to explore uneven access to sexual health resources and reproductive justice across cultures, ultimately demonstrating the achievements and limitations of women's health movements in the recent past.

  • BIOLOGY FORUM
    Biological Sciences 190, Credits: 1

    Lectures on current research and career opportunities in biology through invited speakers. Additional topics include preparation and planning for graduation, Resume development and interview skills. Required of Biology majors. Offered on a satisfactory/no credit basis every semester.

  • WRITING IN BIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 200, Credits: 3

    This course is designed to develop the written communication skills of Biology students. It satisfies the Writing Proficiency requirement for all Biology majors. The two units do not apply towards any Biology major or minor.

  • ECOLOGY AND SOCIETY
    Biological Sciences 214, Credits: 3

    A study of basic ecological concepts and their application to the identification, understanding, and abatement of contemporary environmental problems. Special emphasis is given to those problems resulting from man and his activities. This course is accepted as a course in conservation required for teacher licensure in the sciences.

  • INTRODUCTION TO EPIDEMIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 220, Credits: 3

    Introduction to basic principles of tracking changes in health indicators and problems in modern society. We will cover both current and historical cases to learn techniques of gathering information, analysis, and application. Problems will include infectious diseases, environmental problems, and other areas of concern in population health.

  • SCIENCE OF FORENSIC ANALYSIS
    Biological Sciences 225, Credits: 4

    An introduction to the scientific foundation of techniques used for criminal investigation.

  • ECO & GEOLGY OF YELLOWSTONE NATL. PARK & UPPER GREAT PLAINS
    Biological Sciences 250, Credits: 4

    An interdisciplinary science course with travel to Yellowstone National Park (YNP) and other sites. On-line work will introduce ecology, geology and the natural history of the travel sites. Labs and fieldwork will be conducted outside of YNP. Students with disabilities may be accommodated. Biology or Geology/Geography majors take Bio/Geo 451 or see Department Chair. Summers only. Additional fees apply.

  • INTRODUCTION TO GENETICS
    Biological Sciences 251, Credits: 4

    An introduction to the general principles of inheritance; subjects included are basic transmission genetics, molecular genetics, genetic engineering, mutations, and population genetics. Three hours of lecture and three hours of lab per week. Offered every semester.

  • INTRODUCTION TO CELL BIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 253, Credits: 3

    Introduction to the chemical and physical bases of life; bacterial and eukaryotic cell structure and function; cellular respiration; photosynthesis; and molecular biology. Three hours of lecture per week. Offered every semester.

  • BIOTECHNOLOGY LABORATORY METHODS I
    Biological Sciences 254, Credits: 2

    Introduction to theory and practice in modern molecular biology labs, including principles of nucleic acid isolation/quantitation/manipulation, photometry, centrifugation, electrophoresis, and assay methods. Exercises include basic lab methods and techniques, DNA analysis including cloning, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) restriction digests and RNA analysis. Three hours laboratory per week.

  • INTRODUCTION TO ECOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 257, Credits: 3

    A survey of ecosystems and animal and plant populations and communities. Topics include review of the Earth's major biomes and the physical factors that influence them, the ecology and evolution of populations, the nature of biotic communities, the structure and function of ecosystems, and the status and protection of biodiversity. Three hours of lecture per week. Optional field trip. Offered every semester.

  • FIELD EXPERIENCE
    Biological Sciences 258, Credits: 2

    Introduction to regional terrestrial and aquatic biological communities and field techniques for studying these communities. Field work and lectures will emphasize recognition of biotic community types, interpretation of their dynamics, and methods for identifying and surveying organisms. Weekend field trip required. Registration priority given to Ecology/Field majors.

  • INTRODUCTION TO BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE
    Biological Sciences 301, Credits: 3

    A survey of the biological and physiological bases of human and animal behavior, with particular attention to the following: Basic principles of the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the nervous system; sensory and motor systems; sleep; circadian rhythms; sexual behavior; emotion and stress; motivation; learning, memory, and language; neurological disorders; psychopathology.

  • BIOSTATISTICS
    Biological Sciences 303, Credits: 4

    Students will learn fundamentals of hypothesis formation and testing, using a variety of univariate statistical methods. Consideration of experimental design and the evaluation of research methodologies published in the biological literature are explored in detail. Students will gain practical experience with implementation of statistical analyses using real world datasets and communicating these results effectively.

  • MICROBIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 311, Credits: 4

    Examination of organisms too small to be seen by the unaided eye, ranging from their molecular organization to their role in global ecology. Primary emphasis will be the study of bacteria and viruses, their beneficial or detrimental impacts on humans, animals, and plants, and their current and potential exploitation. Two lectures and two labs per week. Offered every term.

  • BIRDING IN SOUTHERN WISCONSIN
    Biological Sciences 315, Credits: 2

    An introduction to birding skills and the identification of the more than 200 bird species of southern Wisconsin. Early morning field trips are mandatory. Online lectures and learning activities alternate with outdoor field trips. Reliable computer and on-line access as well as a strong sense of self-discipline are required.

  • COMPARATIVE VERTEBRATE ANATOMY
    Biological Sciences 340, Credits: 4

    Dissection and study of vertebrate types emphasizing characteristic structures, general relationships, comparative anatomy, and the significance of adaptation and evolution. Laboratory work, lectures and quizzes.

  • DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 341, Credits: 4

    Explores the processes of embryonic development in plants and animals, emphasizing the experimental basis of contemporary knowledge in embryogenesis, morphogenesis, and in cell and tissue differentiation. The laboratory illustrates principles and processes in early development and includes the use of basic microscopy and imaging techniques to study embryonic processes. Skills in observation, experimental design, and data presentation will be developed.

  • ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 345, Credits: 4

    A study of the functional mechanisms that underlie the life processes in animals. Six hours of laboratory and lecture per week.

  • WINTER ECOLOGY & NATURAL HISTORY OF YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
    Biological Sciences 350, Credits: 2

    A field course in Yellowstone National Park (YNP), exploring winter ecology, organisms' behavioral and physiological adaptioions and abiotic parameters of winter. We'll also examine the natural history of YNP and locations en route. There is preparatory on-line work and lectures and labs in YNP. Students with disabilities may be accommodated.

  • THE PLANT KINGDOM
    Biological Sciences 351, Credits: 4

    A study of the major groups of plants with emphasis on structure, reproduction, classification and evolution.

  • PLANT TAXONOMY
    Biological Sciences 353, Credits: 4

    The principles of plant classification and identification, with emphasis on flowering plants of this region. Lectures, laboratories and field trips.

  • FIELD BOTANY
    Biological Sciences 354, Credits: 3

    A study of the identification and ecology of flowering plants, conifers and ferns. Emphasis will be given to the plants and plant communitites in the vicinity of the course location. A collection of local plants is required of all students. Field trips required. Summer session only.

  • CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 357, Credits: 3

    This course explores the conceptual foundations of conservation biology. We will study the primary threats to biodiversity, and pay particular attention to issues of habitat degradation and loss, overexploitation, species invasions, and climate change. We will learn and apply skills, tools, and biological principles that are used by conservation biologists to study, track, manage, and mitigate environmental threats.

  • HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I
    Biological Sciences 361, Credits: 4

    A study of the structure and function of the human body at the level of organs and systems. This course covers the following topics: Anatomical Structure, Basic Histology, Bones, Muscles, and Nervous System. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.

  • HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II
    Biological Sciences 362, Credits: 4

    A study of the structure and function of the human body at the level of organs and systems. This is the second term course of a two term sequence. This course represents coverage of the following topics: Endocrinology, Circulatory System, Cardiac System, Lymphatic System, Respiration, Digestion and Metabolism, Renal, and Reproduction and Development. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.

  • MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 363, Credits: 3

    The study of how nucleic acids and proteins interact to control the cell. Topics include DNA replication, chromosome structure, transcription, translation, control of gene expression, gene evolution and genomics. Experimental approaches to studying molecular biology are emphasized. Three hours of lecture per week.

  • BIOTECHNOLOGY LABORATORY METHODS II
    Biological Sciences 364, Credits: 2

    Advanced theory, techniques, and practices employed in modern molecular/cell biology labs. Concepts/techniques covered will include advanced lab and instrumentation skills, advanced microscopy, eukaryotic cell culture, protein analytical methods, and application of bioinformatics methodology. Three hous of laboratory per week.

  • AQUATIC BIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 370, Credits: 4

    The study of aquatic environment, its fauna, flora and general ecology. The laboratory will emphasize the taxonomic study of aquatic organisms.

  • INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 375, Credits: 4

    A comprehensive study of the morphology, physiology, ecology and significance of the major groups of invertebrate animals. Six hours of laboratory and lecture per week.

  • BIOLOGY COLLOQUIUM
    Biological Sciences 390, Credits: 0.5

    Lecturer on current research and career opportunities in biology through the colloquium format. Required of Biology majors offered on a satisfactory/no credit basis every semester. May not be taken concurrently with Senior Biology Colloquium.

  • SENIOR BIOLOGY COLLOQUIUM
    Biological Sciences 400, Credits: 0.5

    Continuation of Biological Sciences 630-390. Lectures on current research and career opportunities in biology through the colloquium format. Required of Biology majors. Offered on a satisfactory/no credit basis only. Offered every semester. May not be taken concurrently with BIOLOGY 390.

  • IMMUNOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 412, Credits: 4

    Study of the function of cells and tissues of the vertebrate immune system. Topics include biology of critical molecules and cells, principles of innate, acquired, and adoptive immunity, immunogenetics, allergy, inflammation,autoimmunity,vaccines, and transplantation. The lab provides experience with modern serological and immunological laboratory techniques and instrumentation. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.

  • ADVANCED AND MULTIVARIATE DATA ANALYSIS FOR THE LIFE SCIENCES
    Biological Sciences 416, Credits: 3

    An introduction to multifactorial and multivariate data analyses commonly used in life sciences such as psychology and biology. Analyses include analysis of variance and covariance, multiple analysis of variance and covariance, multiple regression, foundations of structural equation modeling (path analysis and latent factor analysis), discriminant analysis and logistic regression.

  • BIOLOGICAL NANOTECHNOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 421, Credits: 3

    This course is a study of the theory, methods, instrumentation, and applications of biological nanotechnology. Emphasis is also placed on communicating scientific findings and the role that biological nanotechnology plays in the biomedical and environmental sciences.

  • APPLICATIONS OF CELLULAR BIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 425, Credits: 3

    This course helps students build on and integrate the knowledge they have gained in Introductory Biology and Introduction to Cell Biology through reading and analysis of primary scientific literature. The course is organized such that students work in small groups to analyze a series of research papers to explore how a scientific research plan changes in response to new data.

  • ANIMAL BEHAVIOR
    Biological Sciences 430, Credits: 4

    Behavior of animals as individuals and groups, including study of causation, development, integration, evolution and adaptive value of behavior patterns. Lecture and laboratory.

  • ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 442, Credits: 3

    This course is an introduction to environmental toxicology that focuses on sources, transport, fate, accumulation, and toxicity of contaminants. Principles of toxicity testing and analysis of effects at different levels of biological organization (molecular to ecosystem) are covered. Information on select classes of contaminants, including emerging contaminants of concern are presented.

  • ORGANIC EVOLUTION
    Biological Sciences 446, Credits: 4

    History of evolutionary thought, evidences of evolution and analysis of evolutionary mechanisms and processes.

  • BIOINFORMATICS
    Biological Sciences 448, Credits: 3

    Bioinformatics is an introduction to computer applications and algorithms currently used in the analysis of biological data, especially genomic and sequence data. The course entails lectures, discussions, readings and hands-on experience with bioinformatic software. Through exercises and individual research projects students acquire a working knowledge of contemporary computational methods and software.

  • INTRODUCTORY ENTOMOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 450, Credits: 4

    An introduction to the biology and classification of insescts. The course surveys insect structure, function, development, and evolution. Relevant insect physiology, ecology, and behavior are introduced. The laboratory surveys insect orders and a select group of Wisconsin families. An insect collection is required. Offered in the fall semester.

  • NATURAL HISTORY OF YELLOWSTONE NP AND THE UPPER GREAT PLAINS
    Biological Sciences 451, Credits: 3

    This is an introductory, multi-disciplinary, summer field course open to all. It is held at Yellowstone National Park and locations in route. Students will learn field methods, geology, ecology and natural history. It is suitable for biology and geology majors and anyone interested in field science or natural history.

  • BIOCHEMISTRY OF METABOLISM AND SIGNALING
    Biological Sciences 456, Credits: 3

    The chemistry of biological systems, focusing on metabolism and biochemical signaling. Three lectures/week. For Chemistry majors (Biochemistry emphasis), Biology majors (allied health focus) and students interested in Biochemistry postgraduate education.

  • GENERAL ECOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 457, Credits: 4

    A study of biotic populations and communities and natural ecosystems. Contemporary ecological theory and techniques will be emphasized, as well as their applications to the preservation of natural communities. Laboratory exercises will include field studies, laboratory experiments, and computer simulations and analysis. Six hours of lecture or laboratory per week.

  • RESEARCH IN BIOCHEMISTRY
    Biological Sciences 458, Credits: 2

    A laboratory course that teaches biochemical research techniques through guided original research projects.

  • WORKSHOP
    Biological Sciences 490, Credits: 1-3

    This course provides teaching experience at the college level for undergraduate students. Undergraduate teaching experience students will assist faculty members in preparing, delivering, and tearing down laboratory or discussion section instructional units in biology courses, conducting review sessions, and tutoring students under the direct supervision of a faculty mentor. S/NC only.

  • TRAVEL STUDY
    Biological Sciences 491, Credits: 1-3

    Variable topics. Faculty-led field courses.

  • LABORATORY TEACHING EXPERIENCE
    Biological Sciences 492, Credits: 1

    This course provides teaching experience at the college level for undergraduate students. Undergraduate teaching experience students will assist faculty members in preparing, delivering, and tearing down laboratory or discussion section instructional units in biology courses, conducting review sessions, and tutoring students under the direct supervision of a faculty mentor. S/NC only.

  • INTERNSHIP IN BIOLOGY
    Biological Sciences 493, Credits: 1-12

    Variable topics.

  • SEMINAR
    Biological Sciences 494, Credits: 1

    Variable topics. Group activity. An advanced course of study in a defined subject matter area emphasizing a small group in intense study with a faculty member. Repeatable two times for a maximum of 2 credits in degree.

  • SPECIAL STUDIES
    Biological Sciences 496, Credits: 1-3

    Variable topics. Group activity. Not offered regularly in the curriculum but offered on topics selected on the basis of timeliness, need, and interest, and generally in the format of regularly scheduled Catalog offerings. Repeatable for a maximum of 3 credits in major.

  • EXCHANGE STUDY
    Biological Sciences 497, Credits: 1-99

    Variable topics.

  • INDEPENDENT STUDY
    Biological Sciences 498, Credits: 1-3

    Typical projects may include helping researchers in conducting researvh projects or helping instructors develop pedagogical tools for their courses. Eligible students who are conducting their own research projects should enroll in Biology 498R. Repeatable for a maximum of 6 credits in major and degree or 2 units in the minor.

  • INDEPENDENT STUDY - UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
    Biological Sciences 498R, Credits: 1-3

    Students will complete and present an undergraduate research project unter the directior of a faculty mentor. Projects may require more than one semester to complete. Repeatable for a maximum of 6 units in major and degree or 2 in the minor.

  • BIOLOGY THESIS
    Biological Sciences 499, Credits: 2-3

    A substantial research project written as a thesis. Two credits are taken in the first semester and three in the second semester. A proposal must be submitted at the midpoint of the first term and an oral defense takes place at the end of the second term. Thesis students must participate in BIOLOGY 498 discussions. Available only for senior students in Biology Honors Emphasis.