Biology

Associate Professor Ben Cash, Chair, Division of Natural Sciences

The curriculum in biology provides the student sound preparation in the major areas of biological science while permitting concentration in specialized areas of particular interest. Field study in the nearby mountains and lakes and opportunity for research through Oak Ridge Associated Universities and National Laboratories such as Argonne, Brookhaven and Oak Ridge complement the curriculum.

The Major in Biology provides a comprehensive curriculum for students planning careers in which biological knowledge plays a central role. With careful elective choice students may pursue careers as professional biologists in any of the numerous sub fields and enter graduate school programs that lead to research-oriented careers, or they may enter medical school or other health-related programs.

The Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology consists of 65-67 hours in biology, chemistry, and physics/math. Required coursework includes Biology 113, 115, 221, 222, 299, 351, 352, 301 or 355, 305 or 307, 321 or 341, 412 or 414, and one additional four-hour course chosen from other 300 or 400-level Biology courses (excluding Biology 311, 337, and 3434)); Chemistry 121,122, 223 and 224; and Physics 101 and 102 or MTH 125 or MTH 221 and 222. The Bachelor of Science degree In Biology is designed to prepare students for graduate school, medical school, veterinary school, or other post-baccalaureate professional programs. The major in Biology is not open to students majoring in Biochemsitry.

The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology consists of 47 hours in biology and chemistry. Required coursework includes Biology 113, 115, 221, 222, 299, 351, 352, 301 or 355, 305 or 307, 321 or 341, 412 or 414, and Chemistry 121 and 122. Through a four-year plan developed in consultation with an academic adviser, students develop a program of elective coursework in a variety of subjects individualized to their career goals. Specific requirements of particular post-graduate institutions should be ascertained early in the undergraduate program because they may require courses for admission beyond the minimum required for the B.A. in biology. The Major in Biology is not open to students majoring in Biochemistry.

The Major in Biology for Teacher Licensure is designed for students planning careers as teachers of biology and of general science and physical science at the secondary level. The Major in Biology for Teacher Licensure consists of 43 hours in major and related fields. Required coursework includes Biology 113, 115, 221, 222, 299, 321, 351, 352, 412; Chemistry 121 and 122; and Mathematics 115. The Natural Science 150 general education requirement must be satisfied with astronomy. Additional liberal studies requirements are Psychology 101, Sociology 271, and Biology 311. Students pursuing this major must complete 29 hours of professional courses in teacher education. The professional courses are listed under Education in this catalog.

Requirements for the Major in Biochemistry are listed in the Chemistry section of this catalog.

The Minor in Biology requires a minimum of 21 hours, including Biology 113, 115, 221, 222; Biology 299 or Chemistry 399; and at least one course at the 300- or 400-level that satisfies requirements for the Major in Biology. The Minor in Biology is not open to students majoring in Biochemistry.

Course Descriptions

113. Principles of Organismal Biology
4 credit hours
An introduction to the fundamental principles and concepts of organismal biology. Topics include: a phylogenetic survey of the Kingdoms with emphasis on Plantae and Animalia; a review of Mendelian genetics; and an introduction to the evolution of living organisms through natural selection. Laboratory work supplements and expands lecture topics as well as provides an introduction to scientific observation, use of the microscope, collection and analysis of data, and construction of laboratory reports.
115. Principles of Cellular Biology
4 credit hours
An introduction to the fundamental principles and concepts of cellular biology. Topics include cellular ultrastructure and physiology; basic biochemistry of the cell; bioenergetics; photosynthesis; and nuclear and cell division. Laboratory work supplements and expands lecture topics, and deals with cellular organization and function as well as biochemical and physiological processes. An emphasis is placed on collection, analysis, and presentation of data.
217. Human Anatomy and Physiology I
3 credit hours
A survey of the structure and function of the human integumentary, nervous, skeletal, and muscular systems. An introduction to cells and tissues is included. Laboratory work involves examination of models, mammalian dissections, and the study of skeletons.
218. Human Anatomy and Physiology II
4 credit hours
Prerequisite: Biology 217
A survey of the structure and function of the human digestive, respiratory, circulatory, immune, urinary, endocrine, and reproductive systems in humans. Laboratory work involves examination of models, mammalian dissections, and measurement of physiological processes.
221. Genetics
4 credit hours
Prerequisite: Biology 115
A survey of genetics which blends classical concepts (Mendelian and population genetics) with modern biochemical and molecular explanations. The course emphasizes gene expression and regulation in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, non-Mendelian inheritance, and the ethical aspects of genetic engineering. Laboratory work provides opportunities to use classical genetics as well as biochemical and molecular techniques.
222. Ecology and Evolution
4 credit hours
Prerequisite: Biology 113
A study of the basic concepts and fundamentals in ecology and evolutionary biology. Emphasis is placed on the major principles in ecology and the important integrating evolutionary concepts. Major lecture topics include: historical aspects of ecology and evolution, Darwinian evolution, adaptation, natural selection, population ecology, community ecology, physiological and behavioral ecology, and large-scale ecology. The laboratory concentrates on the design and analysis of ecological observations and experiments in the field. Some late afternoon and weekend field trips are required.
299. Biology Research Methods
1 credit hour
Prerequisite: Biology 221
Topics addressed include experimental design, ethical standards within the profession, primary literature searching and review, data analysis, interpretation of scientific papers, and oral presentations.
301. Cell and Tissue Biology
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 221 and Chemistry 122
An advanced study of the structure and function of cells and tissues from plants and animals. The course examines processes of the whole cell and includes bioenergetics, membrane transport, cell signaling, and cell movement as well as developmental processes such as migration of cells and differentiation of cells into the various tissue types. Laboratory work emphasizes the microscopic identification of cells and tissues and culminates in an individualized cell/tissue culturing project.
305. Plant Diversity
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 113, Biology 115, and at least sophomore standing | Pre or co-requisite: Chemistry 122
A phylogenetic survey of organisms traditionally considered plants. Major taxa of cyanobacteria, fungus-like protists, fungi, algae, and plants are examined. Laboratory exercises investigate the distinguishing characteristics of representative members of these taxa.
307. Flowering Plants
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 113, Biology 115, and at least sophomore standing | Pre or co-requisite: Chemistry 122
An integrative investigation of the biology of the angio-sperms. The relationship between structure and function is examined from germination through development of the primary and secondary body to flowering, fruiting, and seed set. Taxonomy is introduced through the study of selected families. Laboratory exercises investigate the anatomical construction and metabolic processes of angiosperms and introduce techniques for the identification of species native to and naturalized in eastern Tennessee.
311. Natural History of the Southern Appalachians
4 credit hours
Prerequisite: Natural Science 150 or other laboratory science course
An investigation of the landforms, flora, and fauna of the Southern Appalachians. Topics include: relationships between climate, geology, and topographic features; recognition of common biotic communities; identification of characteristic plants, animals, and fungi along with their habitats; roles played by plants, animals and fungi within communities; and impact of human activity on ecosystems in the region. Laboratory exercises incorporate field work in the Maryville College woods and local points on interest, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
321. Comparative Vertebrate Zoology
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 113, Biology 115, and junior standing
A comparative study of the animals in the vertebrate classes. Lecture topics include: evolution of the structure and function of the major organ systems of vertebrates; taxonomy and phylogeny of vertebrates; and the major physiological and behavioral adaptations exhibited by the vertebrate groups. Laboratory work includes the dissection of specific organ systems in representative vertebrate species.
337. Internship in Biology
7 to 15 credit hours
Prerequisites: At least 2.8 GPA in major/related courses, junior or senior standing and division approval
Practical off-campus experiences that apply methodologies and techniques of the biological sciences in actual work settings in academic institutions, government laboratories or agencies, or private companies and organizations. One credit hour is associated with each week of full-time employment.
341. Comparative Invertebrate Zoology
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 113, Biology 115, and junior standing
A comparative study of invertebrates. Lecture topics emphasize the evolution of invertebrate groups with discussion of the important characteristics that distinguish each major taxonomic level. The laboratory emphasizes experience in the collection, classification and preservation of all invertebrate groups, culminating with an invertebrate collection. Field experience is an integral part of the laboratory component, and an extended coastal field trip is required.
343. Practicum in Biology
2 to 6 credit hours
Prerequisites: At least 2.8 GPA in major/related courses, junior or senior standing and division approval
Practical experiences, either on or off campus, that apply methodologies and techniques of the biological sciences in actual work settings in academic institutions, government laboratories or agencies, or private companies and organizations. One credit hour is associated with each three hours of work every week for a 14-week semester.
349. Topics in Biology
1 to 4 credit hours
Prerequisites: At least 17 hours in biology courses that satisfy major requirements, and junior or senior standing, or permission of the instructor
Seminars and laboratory courses involving the detailed study of advanced topics in biology not encountered in other course work. Potential topics could include animal behavior, immunology, and plant ecology.
351-352. Senior Study: Research in Biology
6 credit hours
Prerequisites: FRS 140, English Proficiency Exam, junior standing, at least 21 hours in biology courses that satisfy the requirements for a Major in Biology, and 8 hours in chemistry
The Senior Study requirement is fulfilled with this two-course sequence. Research in biology involves independent research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. The project culminates in formal presentation of a written document with appropriate supporting materials and an oral presentation.
355. Microbiology
4 credit hours
Prerequisite: Biology 221
Pre or co-requisite: Chemistry 122
The basic principles and methodologies of the study of microbial organisms with emphasis on the eubacteria. Topics include: cellular ultrastructure and physiology; microbial metabolism and growth; properties and reproduction of viruses; microbial ecology; pathogenicity; and industrial applications of microbiology. Laboratory work stresses basic research techniques: microscopy, culture growth, isolation, and identification of microbes.
403. Vertebrate Field Zoology
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 113, Biology 222, and junior or senior standing
An integrative study of a particular group of vertebrate animals. This course may be taught as ichthyology (study of fishes), herpetology (study of amphibians and reptiles), or ornithology (study of birds). Taxonomic, physiological, behavioral, ecological, and population aspects of the animals will be examined. Laboratory work emphasizes identification and characterization of animals in southern Appalachian Mountains through extensive trips in the field.
406. Molecular Biology
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 221, Chemistry 224 and at least one course from among Biology 301, 355, and Chemistry 311
A survey of molecular biology which emphasizes traditional research areas such as DNA, RNA and protein structure and function. The uses of molecular biology techniques in such diverse fields as immunology, genetics, and animal and plant physiology are examined. In the laboratory students learn methods used to isolate and manipulate DNA.
412. Animal Physiology
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 115, Chemistry 122 and junior or senior standing
An advanced study of the major physiological systems including respiration, circulation, excretion, osmoregulation, sensory physiology, neurophysiology, muscles, endocrinology, reproduction and integrative system function (growth, metabolism, temperature regulation). Emphasis is placed on human homeostasis and deviation from homeostasis (disease), as well as on comparative physiology. Laboratory work employs methods used in animal physiology and involves both student and animal subjects, and emphasizes all aspects of the scientific process (hypothesis, experimental design, data analysis and presentation).
413. Microbial Ecology
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 221, 222 and Chemistry 122
Structure, function, and diversity of the protists with an emphasis on evolutionary history and ecological significance. Laboratory work includes identification of organisms and recognition of common structures related to evolutionary history.
414. Developmental Biology
4 credit hours
Prerequisites: Biology 115, Chemistry 122, and junior or senior standing
A study of the developmental biology of animals, primarily vertebrates, from fertilization through organogenesis. This course will investigate the events and mechanisms fundamental to the development of animal form and function. Laboratory work includes both classic embryology study and modern experimental methods in developmental biology.
416. Advanced Topics in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
4 credit hours
Prerequisite: Chemistry 316 and Biology 221
The molecular mechanism regulating metabolism, catabolism and the flow of genetic information in response to cellular stimuli are explored. Applications of biochemistry and molecular biology are discussed in the contexts of biotechnology, disease, and drug design. In the laboratory, students build on techniques introduced in prerequisite course to complete bioinformatics and molecular cloning projects that culminate with the expression, purification, and functional analysis of a selected protein.