Biological Sciences
Contact Information
Kerry Katovich
Department Chair & Associate Professor
Phone: 262-472-5132
Location: Upham Hall 309
Course Descriptions
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BIOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS
Biological Sciences 120, Credits: 4A 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.
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INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY I
Biological Sciences 141, Credits: 5An 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.
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INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY II
Biological Sciences 142, Credits: 5An 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.
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SEX, GENDER, AND HEALTH
Biological Sciences 180, Credits: 3This 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.
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BIOLOGY FORUM
Biological Sciences 190, Credits: 1Lectures 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.
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WRITING IN BIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 200, Credits: 3This 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.
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ECOLOGY AND SOCIETY
Biological Sciences 214, Credits: 3A 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.
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INTRODUCTION TO EPIDEMIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 220, Credits: 3Introduction 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.
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SCIENCE OF FORENSIC ANALYSIS
Biological Sciences 225, Credits: 4An introduction to the scientific foundation of techniques used for criminal investigation.
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BIOLOGY OF AGING
Biological Sciences 241, Credits: 3The goal of this course is to introduce students to the biological process of aging. The course covers current concepts and knowledge of the aging process, including cellular and molecular research, oxidative stress and DNA repair. It will educate students on various changes organism undergo during gradual transformation from birth to advanced stages of life. This course will explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms of calorie restriction and importance of evolutionary theories in understanding aging process.
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ECO & GEOLGY OF YELLOWSTONE NATL. PARK & UPPER GREAT PLAINS
Biological Sciences 250, Credits: 4An 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.
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INTRODUCTION TO GENETICS
Biological Sciences 251, Credits: 4An 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.
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INTRODUCTION TO CELL BIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 253, Credits: 3Introduction 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.
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BIOTECHNOLOGY LABORATORY METHODS I
Biological Sciences 254, Credits: 2Introduction 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.
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INTRODUCTION TO ECOLOGY
Biological Sciences 257, Credits: 3A 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.
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ECOLOGICAL FIELD METHODS
Biological Sciences 258, Credits: 2Introduction 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.
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INTRODUCTION TO BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE
Biological Sciences 301, Credits: 3A 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.
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BIOSTATISTICS
Biological Sciences 303, Credits: 4Students 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.
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MICROBIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 311, Credits: 4Examination 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.
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BIRDING IN SOUTHERN WISCONSIN
Biological Sciences 315, Credits: 2An 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.
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COMPARATIVE VERTEBRATE ANATOMY
Biological Sciences 340, Credits: 4Dissection and study of vertebrate types emphasizing characteristic structures, general relationships, comparative anatomy, and the significance of adaptation and evolution. Laboratory work, lectures and quizzes.
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DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 341, Credits: 4Explores 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.
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ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 345, Credits: 4A study of the functional mechanisms that underlie the life processes in animals. Six hours of laboratory and lecture per week.
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WINTER ECOLOGY & NATURAL HISTORY OF YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
Biological Sciences 350, Credits: 2A 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.
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THE PLANT KINGDOM
Biological Sciences 351, Credits: 4A study of the major groups of plants with emphasis on structure, reproduction, classification and evolution.
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PLANT TAXONOMY
Biological Sciences 353, Credits: 4The principles of plant classification and identification, with emphasis on flowering plants of this region. Lectures, laboratories and field trips.
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FIELD BOTANY
Biological Sciences 354, Credits: 3A 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.
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CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 357, Credits: 3This 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.
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HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I
Biological Sciences 361, Credits: 4A 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.
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HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II
Biological Sciences 362, Credits: 4A 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.
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MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 363, Credits: 3The 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.
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BIOTECHNOLOGY LABORATORY METHODS II
Biological Sciences 364, Credits: 2Advanced 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.
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AQUATIC BIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 370, Credits: 4The study of aquatic environment, its fauna, flora and general ecology. The laboratory will emphasize the taxonomic study of aquatic organisms.
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INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
Biological Sciences 375, Credits: 4A comprehensive study of the morphology, physiology, ecology and significance of the major groups of invertebrate animals. Six hours of laboratory and lecture per week.
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IMMUNOLOGY
Biological Sciences 412, Credits: 4Study 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.
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ADVANCED AND MULTIVARIATE DATA ANALYSIS FOR THE LIFE SCIENCES
Biological Sciences 416, Credits: 3An 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.
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APPLICATIONS OF CELLULAR BIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 425, Credits: 3This 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.
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ANIMAL BEHAVIOR
Biological Sciences 430, Credits: 4Behavior of animals as individuals and groups, including study of causation, development, integration, evolution and adaptive value of behavior patterns. Lecture and laboratory.
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ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY
Biological Sciences 442, Credits: 3This 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.
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ORGANIC EVOLUTION
Biological Sciences 446, Credits: 4History of evolutionary thought, evidences of evolution and analysis of evolutionary mechanisms and processes.
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BIOINFORMATICS
Biological Sciences 448, Credits: 3Bioinformatics 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.
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INTRODUCTORY ENTOMOLOGY
Biological Sciences 450, Credits: 4An 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.
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NATURAL HISTORY OF YELLOWSTONE NP AND THE UPPER GREAT PLAINS
Biological Sciences 451, Credits: 3This 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.
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BIOCHEMISTRY OF METABOLISM AND SIGNALING
Biological Sciences 456, Credits: 3The 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.
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WILDLIFE ECOLOGY
Biological Sciences 457, Credits: 4Covers advanced ecological concepts related to wildlife. Topics include individual ecological needs, population biology, species interactions, and community-level impacts. In-depth look at quantitative and analytical aspects. Students will gain experiences in the application of concepts and methodologies in real-world settings, and learn more about analytical aspects of wildlife ecology. Provides the groundwork necessary for advanced studies or ecological research.
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RESEARCH IN BIOCHEMISTRY
Biological Sciences 458, Credits: 2A laboratory course that teaches biochemical research techniques through guided original research projects.
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COMMUNITY ECOLOGY
Biological Sciences 459, Credits: 4Upper level ecology course which takes quantitative approaches to learning how organisms interact in communities and their natural ecosystems. This class concentrates on defining communities and exploring how different communities are maintained and/or modified with changing conditions. Topics include: community metrics, niche theory, organism interactions (competition, predator-prey relationships, mutualism, and commensalism), food web ecology, spatial ecology, and succession.
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WORKSHOP
Biological Sciences 490, Credits: 1-3This 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.
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TRAVEL STUDY
Biological Sciences 491, Credits: 1-3Variable topics. Faculty-led field courses.
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LABORATORY TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Biological Sciences 492, Credits: 1This 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.
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INTERNSHIP IN BIOLOGY
Biological Sciences 493, Credits: 1-12Variable topics.
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SEMINAR
Biological Sciences 494, Credits: 1Variable 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.
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SPECIAL STUDIES
Biological Sciences 496, Credits: 1-3Variable 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.
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EXCHANGE STUDY
Biological Sciences 497, Credits: 1-99Variable topics.
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INDEPENDENT STUDY
Biological Sciences 498, Credits: 1-3Typical 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.
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INDEPENDENT STUDY - UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
Biological Sciences 498R, Credits: 1-3Students 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.
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BIOLOGY THESIS
Biological Sciences 499, Credits: 2-3A 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.