These requirements are from an excerpt from the University Academic Catalog, which outlines the requirements for a student to earn the distinction of being a Castleton University graduate. The complete catalog is available online.
For further information about this major, contact the Biology Coordinator (Dr. Preston Garcia): Preston.Garcia@Castleton.edu
A comprehensive program in biology that prepares students for admission into graduate schools, admission into professional schools, a career in biology, or a career in secondary education. The program includes a capstone research project and presentation requirement that integrates students' knowledge across the biological and physical sciences and demonstrates their quantitative, intellectual, and communication skills.
Students completing the Bachelor of Science in Biology will demonstrate:
Knowledge and Understanding of Biological Concepts
Intellectual Skills
Civic Learning
The EEB Concentration is designed for students interested in admission to graduate school programs in ecology, evolution, or organismal biology.
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO 1121 |
Biology I(grade of C or higher required) A comprehensive introduction to biology focused on the molecular, cellular, and organismal level. The course provides an introduction to all areas of biology. Lecture and lab Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
BIO 1122 |
Biology II(grade of C or higher required) A continuation of BIO 1121 Biology I, with particular emphasis on organisms, ecosystems, and evolution. Lecture and lab. Fee Lab fee $50 Spring |
4 |
BIO 2010 |
Cell and Molecular BiologyThis course provides science majors with the fundamentals of cell and molecular biology. Students study the basics of molecular biology, the flow of genetic information through the cell, its structure, function, metabolism, and regulation. The lab portion of the course will focus on mastery of standard cell and molecular biology techniques while exploring course concepts. This course is intended for science majors and minors only and will not satisfy the Scientific and Mathematical Understanding frame of reference. Lecture and Lab Prerequisite: BIO 1121, BIO 1122 and CHE 1041 or CHE 1051 Fee Lab fee $50 Spring |
4 |
BIO 2125 |
Fundamentals of MicrobiologyA study of the cellular structure and function of microorganisms, principally bacteria. The physiology, genetics, and interactions of bacteria with higher forms of life and the environment will be covered. The required laboratory will provide students with an understanding and practical knowledge of aseptic techniques and other common microbiology methods. Prerequisite: Previous or concurrent enrollment in BIO 1121 , BIO 2011, or CHE 2030 Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
BIO 3060 |
EcologyOR BIO 3065 - Plant Ecology 4 cr A study of the interrelationships between plants, animals, microorganisms and their abiotic environment. Problems in experimental design and ecological analysis will be explored. Some Saturday field trips are planned. Field trips to primitive areas are required. Lecture and lab. Prerequisite: BIO 1121, BIO 1122, and CHE 1041 or CHE 1051 with grades of "C" or higher. Fee Lab fee $50. Fall |
4 |
BIO 3070 |
GeneticsOR BIO 4035 - Advanced Molecular Biology A survey of the major fields of genetics with a focus on modern molecular genetics and genetic technologies. A weekly discussion and exploration period examines problem-solving strategies and hand-on applications of modern genetic technologies. Prerequisite: BIO 2010 (may be taken concurrently) or BIO 2125, and CHE 1041, CHE 1051, or CHE 1110 Spring |
4 |
BIO 4030 |
EvolutionThis course is a survey of evolutionary processes with an emphasis on natural selection. The class provides a background that allows students to understand the origin and maintenance of biodiversity and to be able to apply abstract evolutionary concepts to a wide range of organisms. This course will cover current theory in evolution as well as the history of the evolutionary concept and its impacts on society. The discussion period focuses on readings, chosen by the students, from the primary literature in evolutionary biology. Senior standing required Prerequisite: BIO 1121 and BIO 1122 Fall |
3 |
CHE 1051 |
Chemistry IAn in-depth study of the fundamental principles of chemistry. Topics include modern atomic theory and structure of atoms, solution chemistry, nature of chemical bond, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermochemistry and molecular geometry. This course is designed for biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental science majors, as well as motivated students in the health related fields. To succeed in this course, an understanding of applied algebra is mandatory. Restrictions Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Geology majors only. This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Prerequisite: MAT 1221 or equivalent placement. Fee Fee $50 Fall |
4 |
CHE 1052 |
Chemistry IIThis course is a continuation of CHE 1051 . Topics of study include intermolecular forces, properties of solutions, the chemistry of solids, thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, equilibrium, metal chemistry, and electrochemistry. This course is designed for biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental science majors or other students that will pursue higher-level courses in chemistry. Restrictions Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science and Geology majors only. Prerequisite: CHE 1051 or CHE 1041 Fee Fee $50 Spring |
4 |
CHE 2111 |
Organic Chemistry IAn introduction to the chemistry of organic compounds. Emphasis is on organic functional groups and their chemical properties, nomenclature and molecular structure. The laboratory introduces students to basic organic laboratory techniques of synthesis, purification and characterization. Lecture (3 hrs.) and lab (4 hrs). Students are strongly recommended to take Organic Problem Solving I (CHE 2113) together with this course. Prerequisite: CHE 1042 or CHE 1052 with a grade of C or better. Fee Lab fee $50. Fall |
4 |
MAT 2036 |
BiostatisticsThis course introduces statistical concepts and analytical methods as applied to data encountered in ecological, environmental, and biomedical sciences. It emphasizes the basic concepts of experimental design, quantitative analysis of data, and statistical inferences. Topics include probability theory and distributions; population parameters and their sample estimates; descriptive statistics for central tendency and dispersion; hypothesis testing and confidence intervals for means, variances, and proportions; the chi-square statistic; categorical data analysis; linear correlation and regression model; analysis of variance; and nonparametric methods. The course provides students a foundation to evaluate information critically to support research objectives and product claims and a better understanding of statistical design of experimental trials for biological products/devices. Restrictions Students will be required to have a scientific calculator. This course fulfills the Digital and Computing Literacy general education requirement. Prerequisite: Minimum math placement of MAT 2021 . Every semester |
4 |
PHY 1051 |
General Physics IOR PHY 2110 - Physics I 4 cr An introduction to the concepts and theories of physics. Topics include forces, motion and energy. A weekly laboratory section explores concepts and the role of experimentation in science. Students are strongly recommended to take PHY 1050 General Physics Problem Solving I together with this course. Lecture and lab This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
SCI 1230 |
Pathways to SciencePathways to Science is a broad spectrum science course that explores a wide variety of science topics in many different areas of science. Throughout this course students will learn skills needed to succeed in science. The course is geared toward first year and sophomore level students by aiming to provide a solid base of science terminology and principles. Pathways to Science is an introduction in how to succeed in science, how to initiate a research project, and how to get through the first two years of a science program. Students will identify future goals, career objectives, and put together a plan for graduation. Restrictions Biology, Chemistry, Ecological Studies, Environmental Science, and Wildlife and Forest Conservation majors. Spring |
1 |
SCI 2100 |
Science ColloquiumNote: MAT 1531 - Calculus I is recommended for students planning application to graduate school. Visiting scientists, department faculty, Castleton students, and scientists in the workforce will give presentations about current scientific research and careers in science. Students are given an opportunity to interact with the invited speakers and strengthen their personal scientific network. This science research seminar is open to any Natural Sciences major or minor (BIO, CHE, ESS, HLT, ENV, WFC) and is meant to introduce students to a wide range of current research areas and potential careers in science. This course is repeatable for credit. Pass/No pass only. Prerequisite: Students enrolled in a major or minor offered by the Natural Sciences Department or permission of the instructor. Fall |
1 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO 3030 |
Ecology of WaterIn this course we will investigate the ecology of the earth's most perfect liquid - water. The impact of large dams, ground water pumping, hydro-fracking, irrigation, and water diversions on the environment, biodiversity, and humanity will be investigated. Restrictions A minimum of junior standing. Prerequisite: BIO 1121 and BIO 1122 or permission of instructor. Spring, odd years |
3 |
BIO 3065 |
Plant EcologyThis course covers the major concepts in plant community, population, physiological and evolutionary ecology through lecture, discussion and active field and laboratory activities. One or more field trips are planned. Prerequisite: BIO 1121, BIO 1122, and CHE 1041, CHE 1051, or CHE 1110 Fee Lab fee $50. Fall, even years |
4 |
BIO 3070 |
GeneticsA survey of the major fields of genetics with a focus on modern molecular genetics and genetic technologies. A weekly discussion and exploration period examines problem-solving strategies and hand-on applications of modern genetic technologies. Prerequisite: BIO 2010 (may be taken concurrently) or BIO 2125, and CHE 1041, CHE 1051, or CHE 1110 Spring |
4 |
BIO 3160 |
Animal BehaviorThis course examines the behavior of animals as they interact with each other and the environment. Topics include anti-predator behavior, foraging behavior, territoriality, social interactions, communication, and migration. The goal of the course is to learn to think critically about animal behavior by understanding behavior on both the proximate (genetics, development and response to external stimuli) and ultimate (evolutionary) levels. In the laboratory, groups of students will design, carry out, and report on an independent research project. At least Sophomore standing required. Prerequisite: BIO 1121 and BIO 1122 Fee Fee $50 Periodically |
4 |
BIO 3210 |
Developmental BiologyThis course is an examination of the patterns of animal development, including the production of sex cells, fertilization, and the growth and maturation of the embryo. The relationship between development and the evolution of species will be considered. Students will explore embryological development in a variety of animals, including normal and abnormal human development. Lecture and lab. Prerequisite: BIO 1121 and BIO 1122, or BIO 2011 and BIO 2012 (BIO 2012 may be taken concurrently). Fee Lab fee $50 Periodically |
4 |
BIO 3350 |
Natural History of the Mojave DesertDeserts contain diverse, fascinating, and unique life forms. The open desert landscapes make the amazing geology easily visible. Natural History of the Mojave Desert explores biological and geological aspects of the Mojave Desert in California. Topics include the ecology of desert systems, plant and animal adaptations to desert climates and habitats, and the geological forces that shape and maintain those habitats. The course includes a field trip to primitive areas of the Mojave Desert where hiking on rugged terrain is required. The field trip occurs in the week following commencement and the laboratory fee covers all travel, food, and lodging costs. Permission of Instructor Fee Dependent on current travel costs, expected to be between $1000 and $1500. Spring, odd years |
4 |
BIO 4035 |
Advanced Molecular BiologyThis course provides an exploration of fundamental molecular biology, genetic, and biochemical concepts. Students will participate in lengthy research projects involving current lab techniques in these fields. Lecture and lab. Prerequisite: Completion of BIO 2010, BIO 2125, BIO 3070, and CHE 1042 or CHE 1052 with grades of C or higher. Fee Lab fee $50 Fall, odd years |
4 |
BIO 4250 |
Ecotoxicology* may only count for elective OR core biology credit An investigation of the effects of pollutants in ecosystems. Student will explore how contaminants (e.g., pesticides, industrial discharges, toxic wastes, etc.) play a critical role in biotic and abiotic relationships and, ultimately, biodiversity. Students will confront toxicological problems by reviewing case studies and current research, as well as by examining the social, political, and ecological aspects of each issue. Restrictions Prerequisite: BIO 3060 or BIO 3065, and CHE 1042 or CHE 1052 , or permission of instructor. Spring, even years |
3 |
To perform the significant research activity necessary to complete the capstone project (BIO 4620), students may elect to enroll in: