BIOLOGY

DEPARTMENT MENU

CONCENTRATIONS

The Department of Biological Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Biology, with 11 program concentration options.  Although each biology student enrolls in the same core courses, students in each concentration enroll in elective courses specific to their concentration area.

General Biology Concentration (BIOL) Electives  – 33 hours required (Choose one or more courses from each of the following groups):

:

Group I  – Botany:Group II – Zoology:
 BIOL 361 (Required) (4) BIOL 332 (4)
  BIOL 348 (4)
  BIOL 354 (4)
  BIOL 373 (4)
  BIOL 404 (4)
  BIOL 435 (3)
  BIOL 445 (3)
  BIOL 450 (3)
  
Group III  – Environmental: Group IV –  Other:
 BIOL 283 (3) BIOL 241 (2)
 BIOL 284 (1) BIOL courses 300 or above (with approval of department head)
 BIOL 301 (3)**CHEM Elective (300-level or above) (required)(3)
 *BIOL 430 (3) CHEM 435 (3)
 *BIOL 465 (4) CHEM 436 (3)
 *BIOL 480 (4) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
 *BIOL 490 (4) Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)
  Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)

*

**CHEM electives to include any lecture/laboratory series or CHEM 435-436. Note: To earn a minor in chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Environmental Biology Concentration (BIOE) Electives  – 33 hours required

BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 445 (3)
BIOL 275 (2) BIOL 450 (3)
BIOL 283 (3) BIOL 455 (3)
BIOL 301 (required) (3) BIOL 465 (4)
BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 471 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3), BIOL 474 (4)
BIOL 354 (4) *BIOL 475 (2)
BIOL 361 (4) BIOL 478 (2)
BIOL 372 (2) *BIOL 480 (required) (4)
BIOL 373 (4) *BIOL 490 (4)
BIOL 404 (required) (4) **CHEM Elective (300-level or above) (required) (4)
BIOL 406 (1) CHEM 435 (3)
BIOL 425 (2) CHEM 436 (3)
BIOL 417 (3) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
*BIOL 430 (3) Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)
BIOL 435 (3) Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)

 

**CHEM electives to include any lecture/laboratory series or CHEM 435-436. Note: To earn a minor in chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Marine Biology Concentration (BIOM)  Electives  – 33 hours required

 BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 435 (3)
 BIOL 283 (required) (3) BIOL 445 (3)
 BIOL 284 (required) (1) BIOL 450 (3)
 BIOL 301 (3) BIOL 455 (3)
 BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 465 (4)
 BIOL 332 (4) *BIOL 471 (1), *BIOL 472 (2), *BIOL 473 (3), *BIOL 474 (4)
 BIOL 348 (required) (4) BIOL 475 (2)
 BIOL 354 (required) (4) BIOL 478 (2)
 BIOL 361 (4) BIOL 480 (4)
 BIOL 372 (2) ** CHEM Elective (300-level or above) (required) (4)
 BIOL 373 (4) CHEM 435 (3)
 BIOL 404 (4) CHEM 436 (3)
 BIOL 406 (1) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
 BIOL 417 (3) Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)
BIOL 430 (3)* Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)

Marine Biology students must take a course at LUMCON during intersession or summer session.

**CHEM electives to include any lecture/laboratory series or CHEM 435-436.

Note: (1) LUMCON Marine Biology Courses- require departmental approval (2) To earn a minor in Chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Microbiology Concentration (BIOC) Electives – 33 hours required

 BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 455 (3)
 BIOL 275 (2) BIOL 460 (required) (3)
 BIOL 315 (required) (4) BIOL 471 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3), BIOL 474 (4)
 BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 475 (recommended) (2)
 BIOL 372 (2) BIOL 478 (2)
 BIOL 406 (1) BIOL 480 (4)
 BIOL 417 (3) ** CHEM Elective (300-level or above) (required) (4)
 BIOL 421 (3) CHEM 435 (3)
 BIOL 423 (3) CHEM 436 (3)
 BIOL 425 (4) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
 BIOL 428 (required) (3) Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)
 BIOL 429 (required) (1) Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)

**CHEM electives to include any lecture/laboratory series or CHEM 435-436. Note: To earn a minor in chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration (BIOJ) Electives – 33 hours required:

BIOL 241 (2)BIOL 429 (1)
BIOL 275 (2) BIOL 455 (3)
BIOL 304 (required) (4) BIOL 460 (3)
BIOL 315 (4) BIOL 471 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3), BIOL 474 (4)
BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 475 (2)
BIOL 332 (4)BIOL 476 (2)
BIOL 372 (4)BIOL 478 (2)
BIOL 373 (4) BIOL 490 (4)
BIOL 406 (1) CHEM 435/CHEM 437 (required) (4)
BIOL 408 (3) CHEM 436 (3)
BIOL 417 (3) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
BIOL 421 (required) (3) Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)
BIOL 423 (3) Social Sciences Elective (required) (3) (GER)
 BIOL 428 (3)Approved CMPS or OIS (required (3)

 

Note: To earn a minor in Chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Pre-Medicine/Pre-Dentistry Concentration (BIOD) Electives  – 33 hours required

 BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 455 (3)
 *BIOL 304 (4) BIOL 460 (3)
 BIOL 315 (4) *BIOL 461 (5)
 BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 471 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3), BIOL 474 (4)
 *BIOL 332 (4) BIOL 475 (2)
 BIOL 372 (2) BIOL 477 (2)
 BIOL 406 (1) BIOL 478 (2)
 BIOL 408 (3) CHEM 435/CHEM 437 (required) (4)
 BIOL 417 (3) CHEM 436 (3)
 BIOL 421 (3) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
 BIOL 423 (3) PSYC or SOCI Elective (required) (GER) (3)
 *BIOL 428 (3) PSYC or SOCI Elective (required) (GER) (3)
 BIOL 429 (1) 

Notes:
(1) BIOL 304, 332, 428 and 461 are strongly recommended for those students applying for
Medical and Dental professional programs.  See an advisor
(2) To earn a minor in Chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours
CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Pre-Occupational Therapy Concentration (BIOO) Electives  – 33 hours required

 BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 461 (required) (5)
 BIOL 304 (4) BIOL 471 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3) BIOL 474 (4)
 BIOL 315 (4) BIOL 475 (2)
 BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 477 (required) (2)
 BIOL 332  (4) BIOL 478 (2)
 BIOL 372 (2) CHEM 435/CHEM 437 (required) (4)
 BIOL 406 (1) CHEM 436 (3)
 BIOL 408 (3) PSYC 206 or H&PE 340 (3)
 BIOL 423 (3) NURS 312 (3)
 BIOL 428 (3) PSYC 101 (required) (GER) (3)
 BIOL 429 (1) PSYC 212 (required) GER) (3)
 BIOL 455 (3) PSYC 301 (3)
 BIOL 460 (3) SOCI 151 (required) (3)

 

Notes:
(1) PSYC 305 is strongly recommended for those students applying for the Occupational Therapy professional program. See an advisor.
(2) To earn a minor in Chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Pre-Pharmacy Concentration (BIOR) Electives – 33 hours required:

 BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 477 (2)
 BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 478 (2)
 BIOL 406 (1) BIOL 480 (4)
 BIOL 417 (3) BIOL 490 (3)
 BIOL 421 (3) CHEM 300 (3)
 BIOL 423 (3) CHEM 302 (2)
 BIOL 428 (3) CHEM 303 (3)
 BIOL 429 (1) CHEM 305 (1)
 BIOL 455 (3) CHEM 435/CHEM 437 (required) (4)
 BIOL 460 (3) CHEM 436 (3)
 BIOL 461 (required) (5) ECON 211 or ECON 255 (required) (GER) (3)
BIOL 471 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3), BIOL 474 (4) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
BIOL 475 (2) Social Sciences Elective (required) (GER) (3)

Notes:
(1) SOCI 387 is strongly recommended as a social science elective for those students applying for the pharmacy professional program. See an advisor.
(2) To earn a minor in Chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Pre-Physical Therapy Concentration (BIOP) Electives  – 33 hours required

 BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 461 (required) (5)
 BIOL 304 (4) BIOL 171 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3), BIOL 474 (4)
 BIOL 315 (4) BIOL 475 (2)
 BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 477 (required) (2)
 BIOL 332 (4) BIOL 478 (2)
 BIOL 372 (2) CHEM 435/CHEM 437 (required) (4)
 BIOL 406 (1) CHEM 436 (3)
 BIOL 408 (3) HPED 375 (3)
 BIOL 421 (3) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
 BIOL 423 (3) NURS 312 (3)
 BIOL 428 (3) PSYC 101 (required) (GER) (3)
 BIOL 429 (1) PSYC 212 (required) (GER) (3)
 BIOL 455 (3) PSYC 301 (3)
 BIOL 460 (3) 

Note: To earn a minor in Chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Pre-Physician Assistant Concentration (BIOA) Electives  – 33 hours required

 BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 460 (3)
 BIOL 304 (4) BIOL 471 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3), BIOL 474 (4)
 BIOL 315 (4) BIOL 475 (2)
 BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 477 (2)
 BIOL 332 (4) BIOL 478 (2)
 BIOL 372 (2) CHEM 435/CHEM 437 (required) (4)
 BIOL 406 (1) CHEM 436 (3)
 BIOL 408 (3) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
BIOL 423 (3) NURS 312 (required) (3)
BIOL 455 (3) PSYC or SOCI Elective (GER) (required) (3)
BIOL 461 (required) (5) PSYC or SOCI Elective (GER) (required) (3)

Note: To earn a minor in Chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

Pre-Veterinary Medicine Concentration (BIOV) Electives  – 33 hours required

 BIOL 241 (2) BIOL 429 (1)
 BIOL 304 (4) BIOL 450 (3)
 BIOL 315 (4) BIOL 455 (3)
 BIOL 316 (3) BIOL 460 (3)
 BIOL 332 (4) BIOL 471 (1), BIOL 472 (2), BIOL 473 (3), BIOL 474 (4)
 BIOL 372 (2) BIOL 475 (2)
 *BIOL 373 (4) or *BIOL 461 (5) *BIOL 477 (2)
 BIOL 406 (2)  BIOL 478 (2)
 BIOL 408 (3) CHEM 435/CHEM 437 (required) (4)
 BIOL 417 (3) CHEM 436 (3)
 BIOL 421 (3) Humanities or Fine Arts Elective (required) (3)
 BIOL 423 (3) Social Sciences Elective (GER) (required) (3)
 BIOL 428 (1) Social Sciences Elective (GER) (required) (3)

 

*Notes:
(1) BIOL 373 or 461, and BIOL 477 are strongly recommended for those students applying for Veterinary Medicine professional programs.
(2) To earn a minor in Chemistry, a student must complete CHEM 300-302 and 3 hours CHEM numbered 300 or above.

BIOL 105. Basic Biology I – Principles of Biology. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Eligibility for ENGL 101 or higher. A survey of the fundamental principles and concepts of biology including biochemistry, cell biology, metabolism (photosynthesis and respiration), cell reproduction, genetics, plant tissues and nutrition and transport, plant and animal reproduction and development, and evolution. Designed for students only needing one year of biology. [LCCN: CBIO 1013] (26.0101)

BIOL 106. Basic Biology II – The Diversity of Life. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: BIOL 105. A survey of the structure, function, origin, evolution, and relationships of living things including viruses, bacteria, protists, fungi, plants and animals; ecology; and organ systems of the human body. Designed for students needing only one year of biology. [LCCN: CBIO 1023] (26.0101)

BIOL 109. Basic Biology II for Elementary Education Majors. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in BIOL 105. A survey of structure, function, origin, evolution, and relationships of viruses, bacteria, protists, fungi, plants and animals; ecology; and organ systems of the human body. Designed for elementary education majors and includes inquiry based, cooperative learning group laboratory experiences with alternative assessments. (26.0101)

BIOL 114. Human Anatomy and Physiology I. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Eligibility for MATH 100 or 117. A descriptive presentation of the structure and function of the organ systems of the human body covering cells, tissues, bones, muscles and nervous system. Credit toward graduation may not be earned in this course and in BIOL 124. [LCCN: CBIO 2213] (26.0403)

BIOL 115. Human Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory I. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment or prior completion of BIOL 114 or BIOL 124. A laboratory course to accompany BIOL 114 or BIOL 124 using specimens, models and instruments to investigate the structure and function of the human body. [LCCN: CBIO 2211] (26.0403)

BIOL 116. Human Anatomy and Physiology II. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: BIOL 114 or BIOL 124. A descriptive presentation of the structure and function of the organ systems of the human body covering the cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, digestive, endocrine, excretory and reproductive systems. Credit toward graduation may not be earned in this course and in BIOL 126. [LCCN: CBIO 2223] (26.0707)

BIOL 117. Human Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory II. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment or prior completion of BIOL 116 or BIOL 126. A laboratory course to accompany BIOL 116 or BIOL 126 using specimens, models and instruments to investigate the structure and function of the human body. [LCCN: CBIO 2221] (26.0707)

BIOL 124. Honors Human Anatomy and Physiology I. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Honors placement and eligibility for MATH 100 or 117. A descriptive presentation of the structure and function of the organ systems of the human body covering anatomical terminology, introduction to biological molecules, cells, tissues, bones, muscles, and nervous system. Includes clinical applications. Utilizes multimedia with interactive assignments. Credit toward graduation may not be earned in this course and in BIOL 114. (26.0403)

BIOL 126. Honors Human Anatomy and Physiology II. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: Honors placement and BIOL 114 or BIOL 124. A descriptive presentation of the structure and function of the organ systems of the human body covering the cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, digestive, endocrine, excretory and reproductive systems. Includes clinical considerations. Utilizes multimedia with interactive assignments. Credit toward graduation may not be earned in this course and in BIOL 116. (26.0707)

BIOL 155. General Biology I. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: Eligibility for ENGL 101 or higher and eligibility for MATH 102 or higher. Principles of biology from the cellular to the ecosystem level including biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, and evolution. This course is designed for students planning to major in biology or a related discipline. Includes laboratory experiences. [LCCN: CBIO 1034] (26.0101)

BIOL 156. General Biology II. 4-3-3. Prerequisite: Completion of BIOL 155 with a grade of C or better. A systematic study of the structure, function, ecology, evolution and relationships of organisms including protists, fungi, plants, and animals. This course designed for students planning to major in biology or a related discipline. Includes laboratory experiences. [LCCN: CBIO 1044] (26.0101)

BIOL 171. Introductory Laboratory Topics. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Permission of department head. Freshman laboratory experience in the biological sciences. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (26.0101)

BIOL 203. General Microbiology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156 and concurrent registration in BIOL 204. Microbial diversity; structure and function; interaction with hosts and environments. This course is designed for natural science majors. [LCCN: CBIO 2123] (26.0503)

BIOL 204. General Microbiology Laboratory. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Credit or registration in BIOL 203 or 205. A laboratory to accompany BIOL 203 or 205. [LCCN: CBIO 2121] (26.0503)

BIOL 205. Microbiology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 114 and C or better or concurrent registration in BIOL 116. Principles of microbiology, with emphasis on health and disease. This course is not designed for natural science majors. [LCCN: CBIIO 2103 or 2113] (26.0503)

BIOL 206. Tropical Biology I: Pacific slope. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing, 3 hours of Biology coursework, and permission of instructor. Intensive study of Costa Rican biodiversity. Requires on-campus coursework before and after trip abroad and ten days of study in Costa Rica. Travel fees will be paid by student. Even year summers only. (26.0101)

BIOL 207. Tropical Biology II: Caribbean slope. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing, 3 hours of Biology coursework, and permission of instructor. Intensive study of Costa Rican biodiversity. Requires on-campus coursework before and after trip abroad and ten days of study in Costa Rica. Travel fees will be paid by student. Odd year summers only. (26.0101)

BIOL 215. Pirogue Biology. 4-2-5. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. An introduction to the structure, function, and diversity of unique ecosystems of the Louisiana Bayou Region. Laboratory experiences include the exploration of aquatic habitats from the intimate platform of a pirogue. Includes intense field exercises requiring swimming, paddling, and hiking skills. Su only. (26.1399)

BIOL 241. SEA-PHAGES Discovery. 2-1-5. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. Course-based undergraduate research experience focusing on laboratory protocols, techniques, and lab skills for careers in biological sciences. Focus is on laboratory techniques required to extract, isolate, amplify and characterize bacteriophage from local soil samples. (26.9999)

BIOL 275. Introduction to Research Problems. 1-0-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156 and permission of department head. Students will participate in a research project as part of a structured class environment. This research-based class is for biology majors to provide them with an authentic research experience. (26.9999)

BIOL 283. Introduction to Marine Biology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in  BIOL 155-156. The diversity of marine organisms, their interactions and their environments. Marine Biology majors must concurrently enroll in the BIOL 284 laboratory course. Fa only. (26.1302)

BIOL 284. Introduction to Marine Biology Laboratory. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Credit or concurrent enrollment in BIOL 283. A laboratory to accompany BIOL 283. Requires mandatory weekend field trip to a marine laboratory. (26.1302)

BIOL 301. Environmental Biology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: Junior standing and six hours of natural science. A biological approach to the various environmental problems created by man’s industrialization and expanding population. Study of ecosystems, resources, environmental threats, alternatives, and recommendations. (03.0103)

BIOL 304. Histology. 4-2-6. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155, 156 and CHEM 221. Anatomy and morphology of body tissues. Includes laboratory experiences. Sp only. [LCCN: CBIO 3613] (26.0699)

BIOL 307. Introduction to Marine Zoology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: Eight semester hours of biology and permission of department head. Field and laboratory survey of marine animals, particularly those of the Louisiana Gulf Coast, including classification, morphology, physiology, and ecology. Four weeks at the W. J. “Woody” DeFelice Marine Center. Su only. (26.1302)

BIOL 314. Biology of Insects. 4-3-3. Prerequisite: C or better in BIOL 156. An introduction to the biology of insects and related arthropods, including anatomy and physiology, diversity, evolutionary relationships, and identification. Ecological roles of insects and their intersections with human history. [LCCN: CBIO 3603] (26.0702)

BIOL 315. Pathogenic Microbiology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 203 and 204. Properties, pathogenesis, clinical features, epidemiology, laboratory diagnosis, treatment and control of bacteria and parasites in human disease. Includes laboratory experiences. Sp only. [LCCN: CBIO 4535] (26.0503)

BIOL 316. Biomolecular Informatics. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156 and CMPS 200. Introduction to bioinformatics and computational biology. Sp only. (26.1103)

BIOL 320. Genetics. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. Fundamental principles of classical, population, and molecular genetics and their applications in medicine, agriculture, conservation, and biotechnology. Includes laboratory experiences. [LCCN: CBIO 3524] (26.0613)

BIOL 326. General Physiology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 156 and CHEM 221. A comparative study of organ and cell function, their coordination and integration in humans and  a wide range of organisms exposed to different environments. Includes laboratory experiences. Degree credit will not be given for both BIOL 326 and BIOL 327. [LCCN: CBIO 3633] (26.0707)

BIOL 332. Developmental Biology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. A multidisciplinary study of the progressive development of form and function in selected invertebrate and vertebrate animals. Emphasis is on the cellular processes regulating the acquisition of structure. Includes laboratory experiences. Sp only. [LCCN: CBIO 4503] (26.0699)

BIOL 348. Biology of Fishes. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. A survey of the ecology, physiology, behavior, and evolutionary biology of fishes. Laboratory activities will emphasize identification and biology of North American fishes with emphasis on Louisiana fishes. Includes laboratory experiences. Sp only. (26.1302)

BIOL 354. Invertebrate Zoology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. The taxonomy, ecology, morphology, life histories, and evolution of invertebrate animals. Includes laboratory experiences. Sp only. (26.0799)

BIOL 361. Plant Taxonomy. 4-2-4. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. Principles of nomenclature and classification of vascular plants, survey of plant families, and identification and field study of the local flora. Includes laboratory experiences. Sp only. (26.0399)

BIOL 370. Evolution and Ecology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. Recommended: BIOL 320. A multidisciplinary study focusing on forces operating at the population level. Emphasis is on microevolution, population genetics, population ecology, coevolution, and adaptation. [LCCN: CBIO 3643] (26.1303)

BIOL 372. Honors Topics in the Biological Sciences. 2-2-0. Prerequisites: Honors placement and C or better in BIOL 320, 326, or permission of the department head. A selected topic in modern biological sciences. May be repeated once for degree credit if content is different. Sp only. (26.9999)

BIOL 373. Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. 4-2-4. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. Lecture and lab combination with dissection and study of representative chordate systems. Emphasis on the anatomy and evolution of fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. [LCCN: CBIO 3234] (26.0403)

BIOL 402. Senior Seminar. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Senior standing. Capstone course for students who are in their last 18 hours of coursework. Designed to unify many of the concepts that students have been exposed to throughout their path towards a biology degree, including independent research, critical thinking, scientific communication, and collaboration. [LCCN: CBIO 4561] (26.9999)

BIOL 404. Ecology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. A study of the interrelations of plants and animals with their environment. Emphasis is on quantitative techniques for analyzing the structure and function of populations and communities. Includes laboratory experiences. Fa only. [LCCN: CBIO 4124] (26.1301)

BIOL 406. Honors Colloquium in the Biological Sciences. 1-1-1. Prerequisites: Honors placement and senior standing. Lectures and discussion of current advances, underlying principles, and paradigm dynamics in the biological sciences. May be repeated once for degree credit if content is different. Fa only. (26.9999)

BIOL 408. Endocrinology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156 and CHEM 221. Survey of hormone-secreting tissues and their target cells, signal transduction mechanisms, and physiological responses. Special emphasis on human endocrinology and its application in pharmaceutical development and medicine. Fa only. [LCCN: CBIO 4513] (26.0904)

*BIOL 417. Molecular Ecology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: BIOL 320. The ‘Omics era is transforming the study of ecology and evolution. This course provides a basic introduction to Molecular Ecology, including the following topics: molecular evolution, conservation genetics, population genetic principles, environmental DNA, and the use of quantitative genetics in other disciplines, such as behavioral ecology and forensics. Students will be introduced to the application of molecular markers to studies of genetic variation, relatedness, population structure, migration, bottlenecks, founder effects, and disease. (26.1301)

*BIOL 421. Genome Biology. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in BIOL 203 or permission of department head. Results and applications of human and other genome projects. New technologies and biological concepts derived from genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics. Su only. (26.0804)

BIOL 423. Neuroscience. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 320 or 326. A survey of fundamental concepts of neuroscience, including cellular and molecular biology of the neuron and synaptic transmission, development of the nervous system, neural biology of behavior, and neural basis of cognition, perception, movement, memory, learning and plasticity. (26.1501)

BIOL 425. Applied Microbiology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 203 and 204 and CHEM 221. An integrated study of microbial relationships to ecology, pollution, public health and industry. Includes laboratory experiences. Fa only. (26.9999)

BIOL 428. Immunology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 203 and 204, and junior standing or above. An integrated study of the structure and functions of the immune system, including general organization of the immunologic cell system, chemical and physical properties of antigens and antibodies (immunochemistry), mechanisms of the immune response, clinical applications of serology, and the immunobiology of hypersensitivity, transplantation and immune disease. Sp only. [LCCN: CBIO 4523] (26.0507)

BIOL 429. Immunology Laboratory. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Credit or registration in BIOL 428. A laboratory course to accompany BIOL 428. Sp only. (26.0507)

*BIOL 430. Limnology. 3-2-3. Prerequisites: Six hours of 300-level or above biology and/or chemistry courses. A study of the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics and processes of inland waters with emphasis on Louisiana aquatic systems. Includes field and laboratory experiences. Sp only. (26.1304)

*BIOL 435. Herpetology. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in BIOL 370. Evolution, reproduction, physiology, behavior, ecology and conservation of reptiles and amphibians, with emphasis on native Louisiana species. (26.0701)

BIOL 440. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 203, 204, and 320 and CHEM 222 or permission of department head. A molecular approach integrating the study of the evolution, organization, chemistry, structure and functions of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Emphasis will be on the correlation of the molecular mechanisms and biochemistry of cells with their morphology and physiology internal organization, synthesis and regulation. [LCCN: CBIO 4143 or 4533] (26.0499)

BIOL 441. Molecular Biology of the Cell Laboratory. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Registration in BIOL 440. A laboratory to accompany BIOL 440. Laboratory methods to investigate cell structure, chemistry, molecular biology and physiology. [LCCN: CBIO 4141] (26.0499)

BIOL 445. Animal Behavior. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156 and Junior standing or above. A study of how animals interact with the environment, in particular large patterns across taxa, communication, foraging, sensing, and group living. (26.0708)

BIOL 450. Biology of Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156. Biology and conservation of marine mammals and sea turtles, with emphasis on species of the Gulf of Mexico. (26.1399)

BIOL 455. Scientific Communication. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156 and junior standing or above. Concepts and techniques for effective communication of scientific findings, both within the scientific community and to the general public. (26.9999)

BIOL 460. Virology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 203 and 204 and CHEM 222 or permission of the department head. Structure, classification, replication, and molecular biology and genetics of viruses. Emphasis on the mechanisms of pathogenesis of human viral diseases. Fa only. [LCCN: CBIO 4553] (26.0504)

BIOL 461. Advanced Anatomy. 5-3-6. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL 155 and 156, and junior standing or above. Gross structure of the human body with emphasis on the skeletal, muscular, nervous and circulatory systems. Includes laboratory experiences. (26.0403)

*BIOL 465. Marine Conservation and Management. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: BIOL 283, 348, and 404, or permission of department head. Comprehension, evaluation, and synthesis of marine conservation and management plans. Socio-economic factors, by-catch, and habitat impacts. Case histories illustrating population assessment for conservation and management of marine species. Sp only. (03.0301)

BIOL 471. Special Topics. 1-1-0. Prerequisite: Permission of department head. Selected topics in bioscience. Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON) courses not listed elsewhere in the Bulletin may use this number. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (26.9999)

*BIOL 472. Special Topics. 2-2-0. Prerequisite: Permission of department head. Selected topics in bioscience. LUMCON courses not listed elsewhere in the bulletin and special lecture series may use this number. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (26.9999)

*BIOL 473. Special Topics. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Permission of department head. Selected topics in bioscience. LUMCON courses not listed elsewhere in the bulletin and special lecture series may use this number. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (26.9999)

*BIOL 474. Special Topics. 4-3-3. Prerequisite: Permission of department head. Selected topics in bioscience. LUMCON courses not listed elsewhere in the bulletin and special lecture series may use this number. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (26.9999)

BIOL 475. Research Problems. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: Permission of department head. Selected research problems under faculty supervision to develop a hypothesis, design an experiment, collect and analyze data, and write a research report in a scientific journal format. May be repeated once for degree credit. (26.9999)

BIOL 476. Biomedical Thesis. 2-1-5. Prerequisites: ENGL 368 or 468 and permission of the instructor.   Summary and synthesis of selected topics in biomedicine, concluding with technical composition and oral presentation. May be repeated for credit if content is different. (26.9999)

BIOL 477. Internship for Pre-Professional Healthcare Majors. 2-0-5. Permission of the department head. Immersion in a professional healthcare setting for practical study and experience within concentration area. Mentored by selected regional healthcare professionals. Requires minimum of 70 contact hours. (26.9999)

BIOL 478. Laboratory Internship. 2-0-5. Prerequisites: C or better in BIOL320 and 326 and permission of department head. Biology laboratory teaching and management experiences, including presentation, maintenance, preparation, and monitoring, under faculty supervision. (26.9999)

*BIOL 480. Environmental Biotechnology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: Six hours of 300-level or above biology or chemistry courses. Environmental biotechnology relating to human environments and global ecosystems. Applications of biotechnology in environmental restoration. Sp only. (26.9999)

*BIOL 483. Marine and Estuarine Biology. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in BIOL 370. The ecological study of the relationships of marine and estuarine organisms to their habitats. (26.1302)

*BIOL 490. Environmental Toxicology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: Six hours of 300-level biology and/or chemistry courses. Principles and mechanisms of toxicology as applied to environmental agents. Concept of dose-response relationship, toxicokinetics of environmental agents, biotransformation and elimination of toxicants, environmental endocrine disruption, mutagenesis, and carcinogenesis. Fa only. (26.1004)

BIOL 500. Teaching Internship. 1-0-3. Prerequisites: Must be a Graduate Teaching Assistant in the Department of Biological Sciences or permission of department head. Discussion and demonstration of the administrative and pedagogical aspects of teaching biology laboratories. Topics to include teaching style, discussion and prep of weekly course content, classroom etiquette and management, and test development. S or U will be earned upon completion. Course may be repeated. Credit earned in this course cannot be applied towards a degree. (26.0101)

BIOL 501. Graduate Seminar. 1-1-0. Prerequisites: Completion of three semesters in the Marine and Environmental Program and permission of the student’s major professor. Formal presentation of material on selected topics in Marine and Environmental Biology. (26.1302)

BIOL 503. Experimental Design. 3-3-0. Key aspects of biostatistical analysis in an applied framework. Focus is on the performance of statistical analyses using appropriate software and interpretation of output. Material covered includes basic statistical terminology, probability, descriptive statistics, experimental design, hypothesis testing, as well as basic univariate and multivariate techniques. Fa only. (26.1102)

BIOL 504. Ecological Restoration. 3-2-1. Prerequisites: B.S. in biology or related field of study with 3 hours of statistics; or 12 hours of 400-level biology and permission of instructor. Restoration of the ecosystem with a focus on coastal ecosystems. Utilization of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and statistics to analyze and develop restoration projects. Fa only. (26.1301)

BIOL 510. Applied GIS for Biologists. 3-3-0. Prerequisite or co-requisite: BIOL 551. A Comprehensive introduction to the use of Geographical Information Systems in displaying and spatially analyzing biological and ecological datasets. Fa only. (26.1399)

BIOL 515. Wetland Birds. 3-3-0. The study of biological and ecological characteristics of birds that utilize wetland habitats, mechanisms that determine bird form and function, and current management and conservation issues related to wetland birds. From a habitat perspective we focus on wetland systems as habitat for birds that provide resources and selective pressures in the evolution of their life-history strategies. (26.0709).

BIOL 520. Bottomland Hardwood Ecology. 3-3-0. The study of bottomland hardwood ecosystem processes including geomorphic and hydrologic processes, nutrient cycling, ecological succession, and implications for wildlife populations. Includes the effects of anthropogenic activities on bottomland hardwoods and opportunities for restoration and management. Fa only. (26.1304)

BIOL 522. Biodiversity and Human Health. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: 12 hours of 400-level biology courses and permission of instructor. Comprehension, evaluation and discussion of biodiversity, invasive species, human health, ecosystem services and food production. Case histories illustrating use and development of medicines from natural sources and ecosystem services. Su only. (26.999)

BIOL 530. Aquatic Ecology. 3-3-0. A study of the structure and function of freshwater, estuarine, and marine ecosystems including population and community dynamics of aquatic biota, trophic ecology, and physical and chemical characteristics in the aquatic environment. Sp. only. (26.1304)

BIOL 535. Marine/Estuarine Invertebrate Immunity. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: BIOL 203-204, BIOL 328 and BIOL 440. Innate immunity of marine/estuarine invertebrates including cellular and humoral defenses, parasite strategies, environmental effects, model systems and research technology. Fa only. (26.0507)

BIOL 537. Applied Ecology. 3-3-0. A study of the collection, interpretation, and presentation of ecological data. Emphasis on quantitative techniques for analyzing the structure and function of populations and communities. Includes computer and field trip experiences. (26.1301)

BIOL 541. Molecular Biotechnology. 4-3-3. Prerequisites: BIOL 440 and 441 or permission of department head. Application of molecular genetic techniques and strategies to the design, creation, and development of biotechnological tools and products. Includes regulation, safety, patenting, and ethics issues. Sp only. (26.1201)

BIOL 542. Biological Data Analysis. 3-3-0. Prerequisite or co-requisite: BIOL 551. This course presents basic elements of biological data management and statistical analysis in an applied context. Focus will be on the recognition, execution, and interpretation of appropriate statistical analyses for given analytic scenarios, as well as developing competence in statistical and graphing software. Sp. only. (26.1101)

BIOL 545. Environmental Public Health Microbiology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: A baccalaureate degree, general microbiology, and 2 semesters of organic chemistry with laboratory. A comprehensive study of the public health risks of food and water borne human pathogens, including their indicators, isolation, quantification, and identification, and an understanding of the intervention strategies and technologies, regulatory guidelines, standards, and programs to address them. Fa only. (26.0503)

BIOL 550. Introduction to Science Communication. 3-3-0. Prerequisite or co-requisite: BIOL 551. Visual, verbal, and written science communication addressing a wide variety of audiences, including scientists, the public, and funding agencies. Coursework will incorporate discipline-specific examples and assignments emphasizing skills, techniques, and tasks valuable in professional science. Sp. only. (09.0908)

BIOL 551. Marine and Environmental Biology I. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: 12 hours of 400-level biology or chemistry courses and permission of department head. A comprehensive introduction to the field of environmental and marine sciences, including an overview of evolution, habitation, and interactions within a diverse set of ecosystems. Fa only. (26.1302)

BIOL 552. Marine and Environmental Biology II. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: BIOL 551. Ecology, utilization and management of the aquatic environment, with emphasis on the riverine, estuarine and marine environments of Louisiana and the northern Gulf of Mexico. Sp only. (26.1302)

BIOL 555. Advanced Oceanography. 3-3-0. Prerequisites or co-requisite: BIOL 551. Principles and processes of physical, chemical, geological and biological oceanography. Fa only. (26.1302)

BIOL 556. Biology of Polluted Waters. 3-3-0. Prerequisites or co-requisite: BIOL 551 and 552. Organismal, community, and ecosystem responses to pollutants of aquatic environments. Fa only. (26.1302)

BIOL 560. Marine and Environmental Regulation, Law, and Policy Workshop. 1-0-3. Prerequisite or co-registration: BIOL 551. Collaborative workshop with members of industry and governmental agency(s) responsible for regulation of that industry. Issues in the marine and environmental arena, governmental requirements, and legal implications. Fa only. (03.0201)

BIOL 561. Wetland Plant Ecology. 3-2-2. Prerequisite: A one-semester course in ecology or botany, or consent of instructor. Characterization of wetland plant communities with emphasis on coastal environments, factors that control wetland plant distributions and their productivity, plant adaptations to wetland environments, wetland ecosystem structure and function, wetland plant identification, and botanical monitoring of wetland areas. This course requires mandatory field trips. (26.0399)

BIOL 562. Field Botany. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Graduate level standing or consent from instructor. The identification, measurement, and ecology of natural plant communities, with a focus on regional environments. Includes field-based sampling, mapping, and analysis of ecological data. Fa only. (26.0301)

BIOL 566. Population Dynamics of Marine Organisms. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: 12 hours of 400-level biology courses and permission of instructor. Derivation of fish population estimates of growth, recruitment and mortality; use of modeling techniques to assess exploited populations. Analysis of actual fisheries data using SAS and FAST softwares. (03.0301)

BIOL 567 Marine Conservation and Management. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: 12 hours of 400-level biology courses and permission of instructor. Comprehension, evaluation, and synthesis of marine conservation and management plans. Socio-economic factors, by-catch, and habitat impacts. Case histories illustrating population assessment for conservation and management of marine species. (03.0301)

BIOL 568. Professional Scientific Writing. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: computer literacy and a minimum of twelve hours of undergraduate English courses including technical writing. A graduate writing laboratory using discipline-specific examples and assignments, emphasizing skills, techniques, and tasks valuable in professional science. Sp only. (23.0101)

BIOL 570. Special Topics. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Permission of department head. Selected topics in marine and environmental biology to include a survey of the foundation and modern scientific literature. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (26.9999)

BIOL 571. Industry Internship. 2-0-6. Prerequisites: BIOL 551 or BIOL  552, and permission of department head. Collaborative professional site experience in marine or environmental biology related  issues under the direction of a mentor in a selected industry relevant to the marine and environmental biology field. (26.1302)

BIOL 572. Governmental Regulatory Agency Internship. 2-0-6. Prerequisites: BIOL 551 or BIOL 552, and permission of department head. Collaborative professional site experience under the direction of a mentor in a governmental agency that has regulatory authority over law and policy related to the marine and environmental field. (26.1302)

BIOL 573. Academic/Non-profit Institution Internship. 2-0-6. Collaborative professional site experience in marine or environmental issues under the direction of a mentor in a selected academic or non-profit institution. (26. 1302)

BIOL 575. Environmental Diagnostics and Biomarkers. 3-3-2. Prerequisites: BIOL 404 and 440. The design and application of tests that quantify, examine the fitness of, and identify the organisms and ecosystems that contribute to the environmental prosperity of southeast Louisiana. Survey and application of current molecular techniques that examine biological indices in a continuously changing field. Includes laboratory experiences. Sp only. (26.1302)

BIOL 577. Aquatic Conservation and Management. 4-3-3. Prerequisite or co-requisite: BIOL 551. A survey of marine and freshwater conservation and management case studies with an emphasis on, but not limited to, fishes. Comprehension, evaluation, and synthesis of aquatic conservation and management plans including socio-economic factors, by-catch, and habitat impacts. Lab activities emphasize aquatic conservation data collection methods. Fa only. (03.0301)

BIOL 580. Bioremediation of Toxic Environments. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: 12 hours of 400-level biology or chemistry courses and permission of course director. A comprehensive study of the field of bioremediation and biorestoration of contaminated environments. Application of bioremediation technologies in environmental restoration. Sp only. (03.0103)

BIOL 581. Analytical Techniques for Environmental Applications. 2-0-4. Prerequisites: 12 hours of 400-level biology or chemistry courses and permission of course director. Instrumental and analytical techniques used in various environmental applications. Principles and operations of various instruments for marine and environmental research. Sp only. (03.0103)

BIOL 585. Aquatic Toxicology. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: 9 hours of 300-level biology or chemistry courses and permission of course instructor. Effects of anthropogenic and natural chemicals on aquatic organisms at various levels of organizations, from subcellular through individual organisms to communities and ecosystems. Sp only. (26.1004)

BIOL 591, 592, 593, 594. Thesis Research. 1-0-4; 2-0-8; 3-0-12; 4-0-16. Prerequisite: Approval of the major professor. Scientific investigational research in support of the thesis. May be repeated. S or U will be earned upon completion. (26.9999)

BIOL 599. Thesis. 1-0-6. Composition, reporting, and defense of the thesis. Enrollment by unanimous consent of student’s thesis committee. May not be repeated. S or U will be earned upon completion. (26.9999)

In addition to our B.S. degree options, students can earn an Associates Degree in General Studies while preparing for a Dental Hygiene or Pre-Clinical Science program.

Pre-Dental Hygiene (PDHY)

Associate and baccalaureate degrees in dental hygiene are offered only by dental schools and some universities. These institutions accept students from colleges and universities with a pre-dental hygiene curriculum offering the prerequisites required  for acceptance to their professional degree program.

The following curriculum was developed to provide the prerequisites required for the baccalaureate degree program at the Louisiana State University Dental School. Students applying to other degree granting institutions must obtain the current prerequisites from the school in which they intend to apply, and must consult with the pre-dental hygiene advisor in the Department of Biological Sciences. Completion of this curriculum will earn the student the Associate of General Studies Degree.

  • CLR – Computer Literacy Requirement
  • GER – General Education Requirement
  • OCR – Oral Communication Requirement
  • UUR – University Requirement

Suggested Course Sequence:

YEAR*COURSE NAMECOURSE NUMBERREQUIREMENTCREDIT HRS
1BIOL114GER3
1BIOL155 4
1CHEM101 or 105 3
1CHEM102 or 106 3
1ENGL101GER3
1ENGL102GER3
1Freshman Seminar Course UR1
1MATH101GER3
1MATH102 or 214GER3
1PSYC101GER3
1SPCH101OCR3
2Fine Arts Elective GER3
2BIOL116 or 156GER3
2BIOL205 3
2CMPS
OIS
108-109 or 200
200
CLR2
2ENGL Literature Elective  3
2HIST Elective GER3
2Humanities Elective  3
2Humanities Elective200-level or above 3
2SOCI151GER3
2Elective** 3

*Recommend complete as Freshman (1) and Sophomore (2)

**Excludes courses in human performance education. Recommended courses include DIET 200, Speech, or Psychology.
Note: Students considering application to a D.D.S. program or pursuing a BS degree in Biology should take BIOL 155, BIOL 156, CHEM 105 and CHEM 106 as prerequisite coursework for the professional program.

Pre-Clinical Laboratory Science (PMTC) (Formerly Pre-Medical Technology)
A baccalaureate degree in Pre-Clinical Laboratory Science is offered only by academic health centers, schools of allied health and some universities with Board of Regents-approved programs. These institutions accept students from colleges and universities with pre-medical technology programs that offer the prerequisite course work required before acceptance to the professional level part of the degree program.

The program below is offered by the Department of Biological Sciences to provide the prerequisites necessary to qualify an applicant for the degree program at either Louisiana Tech, University of Louisiana at Monroe, or Louisiana State University. It does not exclude the prerequisites of other degree granting institutions.

Furthermore, a student may attend Nicholls State University and complete the degree requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and then apply to a hospital-based program in Pre-Clinical Laboratory Science. For further information regarding these options students should consult with the pre-clinical laboratory science advisor or the department head.

Suggested Course Sequence:

YEAR*COURSE NAMECOURSE NUMBERREQUIREMENTCREDIT HRS
1BIOL155 4
1BIOL156 4
1CHEM105GER3
1CHEM106GER3
1CHEM110 2
1CMPS or      
OIS
108-109 or 200
200
CLR2
1ENGL101GER3
1ENGL102GER3
1Freshman Seminar Course UR1
1MATH101GER3
1Social Sciences Elective GER3
2BIOL203 3
2BIOL204 1
2CHEM221 3
2ENGL Literature Elective  3
2HIST Elective  GER3
2SPCH101OCR3
2MATH214GER3
2Fine Arts Elective  GER3
2ENGL368 or 468 3
2NURS311 1
2Humanities Elective  3
2Science Elective**  3
2Social Sciences Elective GER3

*Recommend complete as Freshman (1) and Sophomore (2)
**Recommended science electives include BIOL 315, 428, 429 and 461

The owner of this website has made a commitment to accessibility and inclusion, please report any problems that you encounter using the contact form on this website. This site uses the WP ADA Compliance Check plugin to enhance accessibility.