Select Page
Home » 2024-2026 Graduate Bulletin » Programs » Biology

Biology

PROGRAM CONTACT INFORMATION

Robert Stelzer, Program Coordinator
Office: Halsey Science Center 150
Telephone: 920-216-0962
Website: https://www.uwosh.edu/biology/graduate-degree/
E-mail: stelzer@uwosh.edu 

 

FACULTY/GRADUATE INSTRUCTIONAL ACADEMIC STAFF 

Churchill, Davis-Foust, Dorn, Krause, Kurtz, Ladwig, Lucas, Matson, McPhee, Merriman, Michalski, Mueller-Spitz, Olsen, Pillsbury, Shors, Stelzer 

 

PURPOSE 

Two graduate degrees are available in the Department of Biology: 1) the M.S. in Biology/Microbiology and 2) the M.S. in Professional Science. The graduate program in Biology/Microbiology is designed to provide advanced training appropriate for professional competitiveness in public and private job sectors. It is particularly applicable for people who seek employment in these sectors and for those preparing to pursue an advanced degree in the biological sciences (e.g. PhD, MD, DVM). Research concentrations include health, cell biology, molecular biology, environmental science, ecology, animal and plant biology, microbiology and sustainability.  The culminating experience of the M.S. in Biology/Microbiology is a written thesis. The Master of Science in Professional Science is a graduate degree that offers specialized training in several high-demand or emerging STEM fields. It includes foundation courses in the Department of Biology and the College of Business, as well as courses that are taken as one of four specialized tracks: 

– Microbiology and Food Science 

– Water Science 

– Sustainable Energy 

– Individually planned track 

 

The culminating experience of the M.S. in Professional Science is a professional internship at a partnering organization in the private or public sector. 

 

DEGREES/CERTIFICATES 

Completion of the program will lead the degree: Master of Science (M.S.) in Biology/Microbiology or Master of Science (M.S.) in Professional Science 

 

ADDITIONAL ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS INFORMATION 

In addition to the requirements of the Graduate School specified in the POLICIES section of this Bulletin, the program has established the following policies and procedures for admission: 

 

Grade-Point Average
An overall grade-point average of 3.00 in an undergraduate program is required for admission in full standing. Students who have a 2.50-3.00 may be admitted on probation.

 

References  

Three reference letters are required. At least two of the three required letters should be written by individuals, preferably professors in the sciences, who are qualified to appraise the applicant’s abilities and potential ability to succeed in graduate school. Use pre-formatted letters provided by the Graduate School. 

 

Undergraduate Major
Normally, the baccalaureate degree will have been earned in biology, microbiology, natural science or related fields. 

 

Admission with Deficiencies
Applicants who lack adequate undergraduate preparation may be admitted with deficiencies and will be expected to take those courses specified by the program. This requirement may be waived, if the applicant has taken coursework, which is considered by the candidacy committee, to be equivalent to the course(s) lacking. 

 

Admission Deadlines
There is no deadline. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. However, applications that are received by April 1 (for fall enrollment) and December 1 (for spring enrollment) will be given first consideration for Graduate Assistantships. 

 

M.S. in Biology/Microbiology 

SUMMARY 

  1. Structure
    The program is comprised of core courses, emphases electives, and thesis.
  2. Academic Plans of Study
    Biology – <Emphasis> is the description for the Biology plan(s) of study: Biology, Microbiology 
  3. Minimum Unit (Cr.) Requirements
    30 (thirty) credits applicable to the graduate degree constitute the minimal requirement for all students. At least 15 credits applied to the M.S. degree must be in graduate-only courses (700 numbers). 
  4. Admission to Candidacy
    Students must pass a written Biology comprehensive candidacy examination. The exam is prepared and the results are evaluated by the Advancement to Candidacy Committee (three graduate faculty from the department selected by the student). It is strongly recommended that students complete this exam as early as possible (e.g., at the end of the second semester for most students).
    Additionally, students must satisfy fully the Graduate School requirements for advancement to candidacy as stated in the POLICIES section of this Bulletin. Students must confer with their program coordinator/advisor to plan and receive program approval for their admission to candidacy. Students should apply for Admission to Candidacy after completing 9-21 credits. The Graduate School gives final approval to Admission to Candidacy. 
  5. Graduation Requirements
    Candidates must satisfy all program and Graduate School academic, culminating, and degree requirements to be eligible for graduation and degree conferral.

 

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS 

 

All emphases require the following courses: 

2 credits of Graduate Seminar:
748 1 Graduate Seminar in Biological Sciences
2 credits of Biostatistics:
710 2 Biostatistics
4 credits of Advanced Topics:
765 2 Advanced Topics in Microbiology/Virology
766 2 Advanced Topics in Biology
6 credits of thesis research:
795 1-6 Biology/Microbiology Thesis
Other Requirements:
Writing a thesis based on scientific research and an oral defense of thesis before a committee consisting of three qualified individuals, typically graduate faculty members. 

Electives: 

All coursework taken for emphasis must be specifically approved for that emphasis. Students are expected to consult first with the Graduate Coordinator and later with their thesis adviser and Admission to Candidacy Committee to select electives from the following list (or other appropriate courses).  Select graduate-level courses in other departments including Chemistry, Geology, Geography, and Engineering Technology may also qualify as electives, depending on the field of study.  Consult with the Graduate Coordinator for more details. 

 

Biology
504 Plant Taxonomy
506 Neurobiology
508 Comparative Anatomy
511 Animal Behavior
512 Medical Bacteriology Lecture
513 Medical Bacteriology Lab
515 Virology
516 Developmental Biology
519 General Animal Physiology
523 Molecular and Cell Biology
525 Field Ecology
526 Introductory Limnology
527 Microbial Ecology & Diversity
528 Ornithology
532 Entomology
536 Fresh Water Algae
539 Public Health Microbiology
541 Immunology
545 Plant Physiology
549 Ecology and Evolution 
554 Parasitology
572 Cancer Biology
573 Biology Field Trip
574 Cell/Immunology Lab
575 Microbial Genetics
576 Population and Community Ecology
577 Microbial Genetics Lab
586 Global Change Biology
650 Advanced Microbiology
700 Professional Internship
796 Independent Study in Biology/ Microbiology

 

Comments 

The following core subjects are considered a foundation for study in the emphases. The student’s Admission to Candidacy Committee will use the results of the written comprehensive exam, along with consideration of the student’s field of research specialization and career goals, to determine whether courses or equivalent exercises in these areas should be required to complete the degree. Courses offered at this University for graduate credit are provided in most, but not all of the subjects listed. Thus, a student may be required to complete a course or equivalent exercise without credit toward the degree. It is anticipated that students qualified for acceptance into the graduate program will be well-prepared for advanced training in biological sciences and that the prescription of specific courses by the Admission to Candidacy Committee will be the exception, not the rule (e.g., in cases of students pursuing an emphasis different from their baccalaureate training). 

 

M.S. in Professional Science 

SUMMARY 

  1. Structure
    The program is comprised of core courses, emphases core classes and electives, and a required internship (Professional Internship, Bio 700).
  2. Academic Plans of Study
    The program consists of the following four tracks from which students can choose:
    – Microbiology and Food Science
    – Water Science
    – Sustainable Energy
    – Individually planned track 
  3. Minimum Unit (Cr.) Requirements
    30 (thirty) credits applicable to the graduate degree constitute the minimal requirement for all students. At least 15 credits applied to the M.S. degree must be in graduate-only courses (700 numbers). 
  4. Graduation Requirements
    Candidates must satisfy all program and Graduate School academic, culminating, and degree requirements to be eligible for graduation and degree conferral.

 

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS 

Required Courses and Electives 

All students need to take the following core classes: 

Department of Biology Core Courses (9 Credits) 

BIOLOGY 700 , Professional Internship 6 Credits
BIOLOGY 710, Biostatistics 2 Credits
BIOLOGY 748, Graduate Seminar 1 Credit

College of Business Courses (4 Credits)

Select at least one of the following three courses:
BUSINESS 758, Project Management 1.5 Credits
BUSINESS 769, Sustainability and Organizational Management 1-3 Credits
BUSINESS 769, Communicating for Success: Writing for Results 1-3 Credits 

Select at least one of the following two courses:
BUSINESS 735, Financial Statement Analysis 1-3 Credits
BUSINESS 700, Financial Reporting for Executives 1.5 Credits 

Students will need to take additional courses depending on what track they have selected. 

The required and elective courses for the tracks are indicated below. Alternatively, a student can work with the program director to design an individualized program of study. The required core classes and required and elective courses in each track will need to equal at least 30 total credits. 

 

Microbiology and Food Science Track (17 Credits) 

Required Courses:
BIOLOGY 539 Public Health Microbiology 
EGRT 577 Industrial Safety and Hygiene 
EGRT 597 Environmental Laboratory Operations

Graduate Level Food Science Course from an Accredited Institution 2 Credits 

Electives (at least 9 credits from the following courses):
BIOLOGY 512 Medical Bacteriology 
BIOLOGY 515 Virology 
BIOLOGY 527 Microbial Ecology and Diversity 
BIOLOGY 554 Parasitology 
BIOLOGY 575 Microbial Genetics – Lecture 
BIOLOGY 577 Microbial Genetics – Laboratory 
BIOLOGY 589 Principles of Biotechnology – Lecture
BIOLOGY 590 Biotechnology Laboratory 
BIOLOGY 650 Microbial Physiology 
BIOLOGY 766 Advanced Topics in Biology 
BIOLOGY 796 Independent Study 
CHEM 503 Biochemistry I – Clinical Emphasis Lecture 
CHEM 504 Biochemistry I – Clinical Emphasis Lab 
CHEM 535 Organic Chemistry II

 

Water Science Track (17 Credits) 

Required Courses:

BIOLOGY 526 Introductory Limnology 
GEOLOGY 565 Physical Hydrogeology or EGRT 571 Water Resources Engineering 

Electives (at least 11 credits from the following courses):
EGRT 502 Advanced Water and Wastewater 
EGRT 597 Environmental Laboratory Operations
GEOLOGY 566 Chemical Hydrogeology 
BIOLOGY 532 Entomology 
BIOLOGY 536 Freshwater Algae 
BIOLOGY 549 Ecology and Evolution 
BIOLOGY 554 Parasitology 
BIOLOGY 586 Global Change Biology 
BIOLOGY 796 Independent Study 
GEOG 614 Natural Resource Management  

 

Sustainable Energy Track (17 Credits) 

Required Courses:
EGRT 575 Renewable Energy 
EGRT 501 Advanced Air Quality
EGRT 595 Biodigester Field Operations

Electives (at least 8 credits from the following courses):
BIOLOGY 527 Microbial Ecology and Diversity
BIOLOGY 589 Principles of Biotechnology
BIOLOGY 590 Applied Molecular Biology Tech
BIOLOGY 586 Global Change Biology 
BIOLOGY 650 Advanced Microbiology
BIOLOGY 796 Independent Study  

 

COURSE OFFERING(S)

Biology    504 3 (crs.)
Plant Taxonomy
Introduction to the theory and principles underlying systematic botany, and to the methodologies of plant classification and nomenclature. Survey of major families of flowering plants emphasizing structure and diversity.  Prerequisite: One term of general biology. Special fees may apply. (2+2) (Fall)
 
 
Biology    505 4 (crs.)
Biology of Mammals
Mammals are represented by over 5000 species found around the world, ranging from enormous whales to miniscule mice. Biology of Mammals will introduce students to this diversity. A broad range of topics will be covered in this course, including evolutionary history, anatomy, ecology, and conservation. Through laboratory exercises, students will gain experience in identifying Wisconsin mammals and the methods used to study them in the wild. Students will leave this class with an understanding of how mammals have adapted to a variety of lifestyles, and the challenges they face to their continued survival from of human threats. Prerequisite: A grade of a C or better in BIO 230, or consent of the instructor.
 
 
Biology    506 3 (crs.)
Neurobiology
Study of the nervous system and its regulatory role in the body.  Underlying physics and chemistry; molecular and cellular principles; development and plasticity; motor control; rhythms and emotions; evolution and diversity. Prerequisites: Biology 105 or equivalent. (Spring)
 
 
Biology    508 5 (crs.)
Comparative Anatomy
A comparative study of representative vertebrates.  Prerequisite: One semester of general biology.  308/508 (3+4) (Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Biology    511 3 (crs.)
Animal Behavior
An introduction to the behavior mechanisms of invertebrate and vertebrate animals emphasizing the naturalistic point of view.  Prerequisite: Biology 340 or 343.  311/511 (2+2) (Spring)
 
 
Biology    512 2 (crs.)
Medical Bacteriology (Lecture)
Bacterial pathogens and their relationships to diseases; prevention and control of infectious diseases.  Prerequisite: Biology 309 or Biology 233.  312/512 (2+0) (Spring)
 
 
Biology    513 2 (crs.)
Medical Bacteriology (Lab)
Isolation study, identification and laboratory handling of pathogenic bacteria. Prerequisite: Biology 309 and 341/541 and concurrent enrollment in Biology 312.(0+2) (Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Biology    514 3 (crs.)
Principles of Wildlife Management
This course is designed to help students bridge the gap between academic experience and advances into the wildlife profession. The course will apply population and community ecology to the management and conservation of wild populations. Cross-listed: Environmental Studies 314/Biology 314. Students may receive credit for only one of the two cross-listed courses. Prerequisites: Environmental Studies 260 and Biology 349 or consent of instructor.
 
 
Biology    515 3 (crs.)
Virology
Medical and molecular aspects of zoonotic and human viruses. Topics include epidemiology, new or emerging viruses and their pandemic potential, pathogenesis, detection and diagnosis, treatment, prevention or control and surveillance measures in addition to applications such as phage therapy, using oncolytic viruses to treat cancers, and vaccine development. (3+0) (Spring)
 
 
Biology    516 3 (crs.)
Development and Stem Cells
Course explores processes which control the development of organisms from gametes to zygotes to embryos to adults. The regulation and maintenance of stem cell niches, potency, and fate throughout development will be studied. Modern research in humans and model research organisms highlights cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern development (signaling, gene regulation, and cell proliferation). Class includes discussions of intersections among developmental biology, biotechnology, modern research, environmental influences, society, and culture. Prerequisite: Biology 323 or equivalent, or permission of instructor (3+0)
 
 
Biology    518 3 (crs.)
Wildlife Behavior and Conservation
This course is designed to teach the fundamental theory of behavioral ecology and then apply that theory to wildlife conservation. We will examine how environments shape organisms’ lives and what that means for our efforts to manage and conserve species. The specific course objectives are to 1) gain a rigorous biological foundation in behavioral ecology, evolutionary biology, and related topics in order to understand how environments shape behavior; 2) provide a forum for discussion of current issues in conservation biology; 3) develop a framework for applying behavior ecological theory to wildlife conservation. Cross-listed: Biology 318/Environmental Studies 318. Students may receive credit for only one of the two cross-listed courses. Prerequisites: Biology 105 or Biology 260/Environmental Studies 260 or consent of instructor. (3+0) Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Biology    519 5 (crs.)
General Animal Physiology
Structure/function relationships common to a variety of animal body plans on the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ-system levels. Prerequisite: One year of chemistry; Biology 323. Biology 230 strongly recommended. (3+1+3) (Fall, Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Biology    521 3 (crs.)
Mycology
A study of the fungi: characteristics, physiology, habits and laboratory identification of molds, yeasts, mushrooms and related organisms.  Prerequisite: One semester of general biology. Special fees may apply. (2+2) (Fall)
 
 
Biology    523 3 (crs.)
Molecular and Cell Biology
This course covers the fundamental elements of molecular and cellular biology, including some current research techniques. Molecular biology covers structure, function and biosynthesis of DNA, RNA and proteins as well as regulation of gene expression. Cell biology examines cellular structures and how they accomplish replication, metabolism and response to the environment. Prerequisites: One year of college-level chemistry. (Fall/Spring)
 
 
Biology    525 3 (crs.)
Field Ecology
An introductory field ecology course that will cover comparative, experimental and theoretical approaches to basic and applied questions in ecology. Field and laboratory exercises will treat various levels of organization including populations, communities and ecosystems. Studies will be carried out in a variety of local aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Students will gain first-hand experience with modern sampling and analytical techniques in ecology. Prerequisite: Biology 105 and Biology 349/549 (may be taken concurrently). Special fees may apply. (0+1+3) (Fall)
 
 
Biology    526 3 (crs.)
Introductory Limnology
The physical, chemical and biological character of lakes and streams.  Methods of field measurements, collection and analysis of water samples. Investigation of aquatic communities.  Prerequisites: one semester of general biology, one year of general chemistry, and consent of instructor. Special fees may apply. (2+2) (Fall, odd years)
 
 
Biology    527 3 (crs.)
Microbial Ecology & Diversity
A broad overview of the physiological, phylogenetic and genomic diversity and ecology of microorganisms within a framework of general ecological principles. Focuses on evolutionary pressures leading to microbial diversity, biogeochemical cycles, symbiotic relationship, microbial relationships with other living organisms, metabolic pathways, and biotransformation of novel compounds. Prerequisite: Biology 231, 233, 309 or consent of instructor. (3+0) (Fall, odd years)
 
 
Biology    528 3 (crs.)
Ornithology
An introduction to the systematics, evolution, anatomy, behavior, and ecology of birds of the world.  Field Trips. Prerequisite: Biology 230. (2+3) (Spring)
 
 
Biology    530 3 (crs.)
Ichthyology
The biology of fishes including functional anatomy, evolution, taxonomy, ecology, physiology, behavior and development.  Field trips required.  Prerequisite: Biology 230 and one year of general chemistry with laboratory.  (2+3) (Fall, odd years)
 
 
Biology    532 3 (crs.)
Entomology
An introduction to the study of insects. Principles of biology, ecology and classification are emphasized.  Elements of morphology, physiology, and collection and preservation techniques are included. Field trips. General collection of insects (assembled during the term is required. Prerequisite: One term of general biology. (2+3) (Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Biology    536 3 (crs.)
Fresh Water Algae
Classification, biochemistry, physiology and ecology of fresh water algae.  Emphasis on the roles algae play in aquatic ecosystems and on applications in environmental monitoring, aquaculture, and as experimental systems for basic research in photosynthesis.  Prerequisite: Biology 231, 233 or 309.  336/536  (2+2) (Fall, even years)
 
 
Biology    539 3 (crs.)
Public Health Microbiology
Infectious disease is all around. This course explores the importance of infectious disease through a public health lens by focusing on routes of transmission, disease reservoirs, vectors, and environmental factors that foster pathogen survival. The course addresses the unique intersection of public health and applied microbiology. Special fees may apply.  Prerequisite: Biology 233 or 309 or 323 or consent of instructor. (3+0) (Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Biology    541 3 (crs.)
Immunology
Principles of immunology, with emphasis on the cellular and molecular basis of immune function, including clinical aspects of host immune processes. Areas of immunology currently under investigation will also be examined.  Prerequisite: Biology 323 or consent of instructor. Strongly recommended: Biology 233 or 309.  (3+0) (Fall)
 
 
Biology    545 5 (crs.)
Plant Physiology
An experimental study of plant growth, metabolism, nutrition, reproduction and response to environment.  Prerequisite: One term of general biology, one year of general chemistry and Biology 231.  (4+3) (Spring)
 
 
Biology    549 3 (crs.)
Ecology and Evolution
Basic Principles which influence and govern the plant and animal relations with their environments.  An explanation of the distribution, abundance, and specialization of the present-day organisms, and of extinction.  Prerequisite: One semester of general biology.  349/549 (3+0) (Fall-Spring)
 
 
Biology    553 3 (crs.)
Introduction to Arachnology
An introduction to the arachnid orders with emphasis on spiders, harvestmen, scorpions, and solfugids.  Morphology, classification, ecology, and collecting techniques will be emphasized.  A collection of spiders and harvestmen is required. Prerequisite: None. Strongly recommended: Biology 230. 353/553 (1+4)
 
 
Biology    554 3 (crs.)
Parasitology
A look at the most common mode of life.  Emphasis will be placed on parasites of medical and veterinary importance.  Topics will include life cycles, identification and diagnosis, disease, host-parasite interaction and co-evolution.  Prerequisites: One term of general biology and Biology 230. (2+2) (Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Biology    572 3 (crs.)
Cancer Biology
Course examines causes and biology of cancer cells. Discussions focus upon main processes disrupted in cancerous cells (regulation of cell proliferation, genomic stability, and signaling). Advances in cancer research will be explored through investigation of the primary scientific literature. Prerequisite: Biology 323 or equivalent, or permission of instructor (3+0)
 
 
Biology    573 2 (crs.)
Biology Field Trip
Formal library and classroom study of an area of interest followed by field study of that area.  Site of study will change from year to year and could include Florida Everglades and Keys, Gulf Coast, Desert Southwest, etc.  A final examination will follow the trip.  Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.  See instructor for special course fees.  May be taken more than once for credit but only 2 credits will apply toward the major or minor at the undergraduate level or MS Biology degree.  To receive credit, student must be enrolled at beginning of semester. (Spring)
 
 
Biology    574 3 (crs.)
Cell/Immunology Laboratory
Laboratory course integrating principles of cell biology and immunology. Techniques employed include, but are not limited to western blotting, SDS-PAGE, PCR and applications, ELISAs, tissue culture, and microscopy. Course is designed for students interested in molecular methods and who aim to do research or gain jobs in fields of cell and molecular biology, microbiology, medicine and medical technology. Prerequisite: Previous or concurrent enrollment in Biology 341/541 or 372/572. Special fees may apply. (Fall)
 
 
Biology    575 3 (crs.)
Microbial Genetics
Structure of microbial genome mutation, expression and exchange of genetic information, genetic analysis, genetic engineering.  Prerequisite: Biology 309 and Biology 340 or 343. 375/575 (Fall)
 
 
Biology    576 3 (crs.)
Population and Community Ecology
An introduction to the study of populations and communities.  Examines population-level phenomena (e.g., density, demography, reproduction) and population-level interactions within biological communities (e.g., competition, predation, parasitism).  Labs involve discussions of papers from the literature, data analysis, and computer simulations.  Prerequisite: Biology 349 or consent of instructor.  376/576 (2+3) (Fall)
 
 
Biology    577 2 (crs.)
Microbial Genetics Laboratory
A laboratory course to study the genetics of bacteria and their viruses.  Genetic mapping will be introduced using techniques involving mutagenesis, recombination, plasmid transfer, transduction and transformation systems. Prerequisite: Biology 309 and 375/575 (may be taken concurrently). Special fees may apply. 377/577 (0+4) (Fall)
 
 
Biology    586 3 (crs.)
Global Change Biology
The course will examine how biophysical aspects of Earth have changed in the past and are predicted to change in the future. Primary themes of the course are the relationships between the environment and living organisms and how those relationships have changed through time. Global biogeochemical cycles, and the
influence of humans on these cycles, will be examined. Emphasis will be placed on how global climate change, and other effects of humans at global scales, impacts organisms, species, communities and ecosystems. Lab will include the collection and analysis of environmental and biological data.  Prerequisite: Biology 349 or consent of instructor. (2+2) (Spring)
 
 
Biology    589 3 (crs.)
Principles of Biotechnology
A survey of methods and processes used in industrial microbiology and the techniques used in the development of new processes (recombinant DNA, monoclonal antibodies and genetic improvement). Prerequisite: Biology 323 and 343.  Strongly recommended: Biology 375 or consent of instructor. (3+0) (Spring)
 
 
Biology    590 2 (crs.)
Applied Molecular Biology Techniques
This laboratory course will cover theory and practice of modern molecular technology including nucleic acid and protein purification, gel electrophoresis, recombinant DNA, antibody-based assays, polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing, and analysis of ‘omics’ data.  Prerequisite: Biology 309 or 323 or consent of the instructor. Special fees may apply.
 
 
Biology    650 5 (crs.)
Advanced Microbiology: Modern Research Approaches
Modern microbiology is a synthesis of genetics, biochemistry, genomics, molecular biology, and evolution. Build skills including critical thinking, applying the scientific method, and professional development, alongside a laboratory that develops microbiology techniques during a semester-long research project. Prerequisite: Biology 309. Strongly recommended: Chemistry 305.Special fees may apply. (3+4)
 
 
Biology    700 1 – 6 (crs.)
Professional Internship
An internship experience with a cooperating organization in the private or public sector. The internship should focus on the biological sciences or on an allied field. Prerequisites: Students will need to have completed a B.S. or B.A. degree, preferably in Biology. Students will need to discuss the proposed internship with the course instructor before beginning the internship application process. If the internship is deemed appropriate by the instructor, the student will need to submit an internship application to the instructor.
 
 
Biology    710 2 (crs.)
Biostatistics
This course will cover the basic types of statistics used in the analysis of biological data. Topics include descriptive statistics, types of data, comparisons of two populations, probability, multiple comparisons (ANOVA), experimental design, linear regression, power analysis and multivariate analysis. Students will use both calculators and standard statistical programs to explore various data sets. Prerequisites: Psych 203 or equivalent, or consent of instructor. (2+0) Spring)
 
 
Biology    729 2 (crs.)
Advanced Human Anatomy
Advanced study of the major anatomical regions of the human body with clinical importance for anesthetists. Particular attention will be placed on the respiratory pathway, heart and major vessels of the neck and limbs, and regions of the nervous system pertaining to nerve blocks. Topics of discussion will include age-related chances to anatomy and their implications for anesthesia. This course will utilize lectures, discussions of clinical cases, study of models, and their examination of cadavers. Prerequisites: Admission to the College of Nursing’s CRNA doctoral program
 
 
Biology    730 4 (crs.)
Advanced Human Physiology
A review of the integrated approach to human physiology, accompanied by advanced study of the body’s functional systems. Emphasis will be placed on critical systems affected by anesthesia administration (nervous, cardiac, respiratory, thermoregulatory) and on physiological states that complicate anesthesia (pregnancy, obesity, advanced age, etc.). As befits doctoral training, students will be expected to demonstrate facility interpreting and articulating physical and chemical explanations of physiological processes and interventions. Prerequisites: Admission to the College of Nursing’s CRNA doctoral program.
 
 
Biology    748 1 (crs.)
Graduate Seminar in Biological Sciences
Students will review a significant body of current scientific and deliver presentations both to the class and to the entire department. Topics may be drawn from any area of the biological sciences. Critical analysis, organization, and delivery of all aspects of a professional presentation is expected. Students also will attend and critique other presentations. Graduate students are encouraged to give a seminar on their proposed thesis research project once during their M.S. program. Prerequisites: Completion of at least 6 graduate credits in Biology/Microbiology. Open only to students admitted to the M.S. in Biology, who are in full standing. Instructor permission may be granted to waive these prerequisites in special circumstances. (Fall, Spring)
 
 
Biology    751 4 (crs.)
Biochemical Genetics
DNA structure, replication of genetic material, mutation, and genetic exchange in various organisms with emphasis on procaryotes and viruses.  Prerequisite: Biology 309 and 340.  (2+2)
 
 
Biology    766 2 – 3 (crs.)
Advanced Topics in Biology
Recent advances in biological science will be examined in detail.  Content varies with offering.  Course may be repeated for a total of 6 credits. (Fall, Spring)
 
 
Biology    795 1 – 6 (crs.)
Biology/Microbiology Thesis
Each registration with maximum accumulation of 6 cr.  Registration for thesis credit for MS Biology/Microbiology students.  Prerequisite: Thesis Proposal and Advisor Approval Form must be filed in Graduate Office.  Pass/Fail course.
 
 
Biology    796 1 – 3 (crs.)
Independent Study in Biology/Microbiology
Registration for MS Biology/Microbiology students who have filed Independent Study Topic and Instructor Approval Form with Graduate Office.
 
 
Biology    799 0 (crs.)
Registration for Comprehensive Examination
Required registration for MS Biology/Microbiology students in their final term who are not registered for credit courses.  Pass/Fail course.