Biological Sciences

The Department of Biological Sciences offers three distinct four-year curricula that lead to the baccalaureate degree. These are the Bachelor of Science in Biology, the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science, and the Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology. In addition, Pre-Health professional programs are offered which include Pre-Medicine, Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Pharmacy, and Pre-Veterinary Medicine. The curricula are designed to maximize career opportunities and to prepare students for various graduate and professional school programs.  The Department of Biological Sciences provides a broad range of courses and learning opportunities designed to prepare students for diverse careers. Particular attention is given to maintaining updated curricula to keep pace with the rapidly changing field of biology. Whenever possible we emphasize hands-on experience with the biological techniques and instrumentation used by biologists world-wide and encourage students to become involved in faculty initiated research experiences.

A Master of Science degree is also offered. For further information, see the graduate section of this catalog.

Bachelor of Science in Biology

General Education Requirements 142
BIOL 1406Biology for Science Majors4
BIOL 1407Biology for Science Majors II4
BIOL 2300Cell Biology3
BIOL 3407Microbiology4
BIOL 3303Genetics3
BIOL 3103Genetic Techniques1
BIOL 3353Ecology and Evolution3
or BIOL 3363 Study Abroad: Ecology and Evolution
BIOL 4398Current Topics in the Life Sciences3
CHEM 1311 [shared] College Chemistry I (Lecture) 2
CHEM 1111 [shared] College Chemistry I (Laboratory) 2
CHEM 1312 [shared] College Chemistry II (Lecture) 2
CHEM 1112 [shared] College Chemistry II (Laboratory) 2
PHYS 1401College Physics I4
CHEM 2323Organic Chemistry I 3
CHEM 2123Organic Chemistry I Laboratory1
PHYS 1402College Physics II4
ENGL 1301 [shared] Composition I
ENGL 1302 [shared] Composition II
ENGL 3309Professional Writing3
Placement is required for MATH 2412
MATH 2412 [shared] Precalculus Math (shared)
Total Hours82
Aquatic Ecology
BIOL 3449Animal Diversity4
BIOL 4401Ecology4
BIOL 4462Ichthyology4
BIOL 4441Freshwater Biology4
BIOL 3340Introduction to Marine Biology3
BIOL 3430Phycology4
BIOL 4086Biology Problems1
EASC 3350Environmental Science3
GEOL 1403Physical Geology4
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
EASC 3340Oceanography3
Total Hours38

Botany
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
BIOL 3415Plant Taxonomy4
BIOL 3420Plant Pathology4
BIOL 3449Animal Diversity4
BIOL 3430Phycology4
BIOL 4401Ecology4
BIOL 3436Plant Physiology4
BIOL 4086Biology Problems (Herbarium Techniques Botanical Research Institute of Texas)3
Biology Elective4
WSES 4309Plant-Animal Interactions3
Total Hours38

Environmental
BIOL 3415Plant Taxonomy4
BIOL 3436Plant Physiology4
BIOL 3449Animal Diversity4
BIOL 4401Ecology4
BIOL 4441Freshwater Biology4
or BIOL 4462 Ichthyology
BIOL 3340Introduction to Marine Biology3
EASC 3350Environmental Science3
GEOL 1403Physical Geology4
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
Electives4
Total Hours38

General Without Certification
Advanced BIOL Electives18
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
Electives (6 Hours Advanced)16
Total Hours38

Molecular
BIOL 3413Molecular Biology4
BIOL 4374Biochemistry I3
BIOL 4375Biochemistry II3
BIOL 4378Biochemistry Lab3
CHEM 2325Organic Chemistry II 3
CHEM 2125Organic Chemistry II Laboratory1
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
Select 7 hours from the following:7
Immunology Lab Techniques
Immunology
Pathogenic Microbiology
Computational Biology
Biotechnology Research Techniques
Electives (4 Hours Advanced)10
Total Hours38

Terrestrial Ecology
BIOL 3449Animal Diversity4
BIOL 4401Ecology4
BIOL 4320Behavioral Ecology3
BIOL 4420Terrestrial Field Ecology4
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
WSES 4309Plant-Animal Interactions3
WSES 4311Fire Ecology3
One of the Following Courses:4
Parasitology
Plant Physiology
One of the Following Courses:4
Ornithology
Herpetology
Mammalogy
Electives (4 Hours Advanced)5
Total Hours38

Wildlife
BIOL 3415Plant Taxonomy4
BIOL 3449Animal Diversity4
or BIOL 3436 Plant Physiology
BIOL 4401Ecology4
BIOL 4420Terrestrial Field Ecology4
Select any 3 of the following courses:12
Ornithology
Herpetology
Mammalogy
Ichthyology
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
WSES 2322Principles of Wildlife Conservation and Management3
Elective3
Total Hours38

Zoology
BIOL 3406Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy4
BIOL 3449Animal Diversity4
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
BIOL 4340Developmental Biology3
Select 23 hours from the following:23
Behavioral Ecology
Ornithology
Herpetology
Parasitology
Mammalogy
Ichthyology
General Physiology
Total Hours38

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science 

General Education Requirements42
BIOL 1406Biology for Science Majors4
BIOL 1407Biology for Science Majors II4
BIOL 2300Cell Biology3
BIOL 3303Genetics3
BIOL 3103Genetic Techniques1
BIOL 3407Microbiology4
BIOL 3353Ecology and Evolution3
or BIOL 3363 Study Abroad: Ecology and Evolution
BIOL 4460General Physiology4
BIOL 4374Biochemistry I3
BIOL 4398Current Topics in the Life Sciences3
CHEM 1311 [shared] College Chemistry I (Lecture) 2
CHEM 1111 [shared] College Chemistry I (Laboratory) 2
BIOL 1185Career Pathways in Biomedical Science1
CHEM 1312 [shared] College Chemistry II (Lecture) 2
CHEM 1112 [shared] College Chemistry II (Laboratory) 2
PHYS 1401College Physics I4
or PHYS 2425 University Physics I
CHEM 2123Organic Chemistry I Laboratory1
CHEM 2323Organic Chemistry I 3
PHYS 1402College Physics II4
or PHYS 2426 University Physics II
Placement is required for MATH 2412 or MATH 2413
MATH 2412 [shared] Precalculus Math
or MATH 2413 Calculus I
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
ENGL 1301 [shared] Composition I
ENGL 1302 [shared] Composition II
ENGL 3309Professional Writing3
Total Hours94
General Without Certification
BIOL 3406Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy4
or BIOL 4465 Human Anatomy
Select 7-9 hours from the following:7-9
Immunology Lab Techniques
Introduction to Virology
Immunology
Pathogenic Microbiology
Molecular Biology
Developmental Biology
Vaccines
Parasitology
Biochemistry II
Biochemistry Lab
Biotechnology Research Techniques
Computational Biology
Electives (7 Hours Advanced)13-15
Total Hours26

Pre-Medical/Pre-Dental
PSYC 2301 [shared] General Psychology
CHEM 2325Organic Chemistry II 3
CHEM 2125Organic Chemistry II Laboratory1
BIOL 3385Immunology3
BIOL 4465Human Anatomy4
Select 3-4 hours from the following:3-4
Immunology Lab Techniques
Introduction to Virology
Pathogenic Microbiology
Molecular Biology
Developmental Biology
Vaccines
Parasitology
Biochemistry II
Biochemistry Lab
Biotechnology Research Techniques
Computational Biology
Electives (7 Hours Advanced)11-12
Total Hours26

Pre-Pharmacy
MATH 2413Calculus I 14
CHEM 2125Organic Chemistry II Laboratory1
CHEM 2325Organic Chemistry II 3
BIOL 4465Human Anatomy4
Select 7-9 hours from the following:7-9
Immunology Lab Techniques
Introduction to Virology
Immunology
Pathogenic Microbiology
Molecular Biology
Developmental Biology
Vaccines
Parasitology
Biochemistry II
Biochemistry Lab
Biotechnology Research Techniques
Computational Biology
Advanced Electives5-7
Total Hours26

Pre-Physical Therapy/Pre-Physician Assistant
PSYC 2301 [shared] General Psychology
KINE 3319Medical Terminology3
BIOL 4465Human Anatomy4
Select 8-9 hours from the following:8-9
Immunology Lab Techniques
Introduction to Virology
Immunology
Pathogenic Microbiology
Molecular Biology
Developmental Biology
Vaccines
Parasitology
Biochemistry II
Biochemistry Lab
Biotechnology Research Techniques
Computational Biology
Electives (3 Hours Advanced) 210-11
Total Hours26

Pre-Veterinary
COMM 1315 [shared] Public Speaking
or COMM 2302 Business and Professional Speaking
PSYC 2301 [shared] General Psychology
CHEM 2125Organic Chemistry II Laboratory1
CHEM 2325Organic Chemistry II 3
BIOL 3406Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy4
ANSC 3308Principles of Animal Nutrition3
Select 8-9 hours from the following:8-9
Immunology Lab Techniques
Introduction to Virology
Immunology
Pathogenic Microbiology
Molecular Biology
Developmental Biology
Vaccines
Biochemistry II
Parasitology
Biochemistry Lab
Electives (3 Hours Advanced)6-7
Total Hours26

Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology

General Education Requirements43
ENGL 1301 [shared] Composition I
ENGL 1302 [shared] Composition II
GOVT 2305 [shared] Federal Government (Federal Constitution and Topics)
GOVT 2306 [shared] Texas Government (Texas Constitution and Topics)
BTEC 1185Biotechnology Seminar1
BIOL 1406 [shared] Biology for Science Majors
BIOL 1407 [shared] Biology for Science Majors II
Placement is required for Precalculus (MATH 2412)
MATH 2412 [shared] Precalculus Math
BIOL 2300Cell Biology3
BIOL 3407Microbiology4
BIOL 3413Molecular Biology4
BTEC 3350Computational Biology3
BTEC 4380Capstone in Biotechnology3
CHEM 1311College Chemistry I (Lecture)3
CHEM 1111College Chemistry I (Laboratory)1
CHEM 1312College Chemistry II (Lecture)3
CHEM 1112College Chemistry II (Laboratory)1
CHEM 2323Organic Chemistry I 3
CHEM 2123Organic Chemistry I Laboratory1
PHYS 1401College Physics I4
MATH 2413Calculus I4
MATH 3450Principles of Bio-Statistics4
ENGL 3309Professional Writing3
Total Hours88
Bioinformatics
BIOL 3303Genetics3
BIOL 3103Genetic Techniques1
BTEC 3360Biotechnology Compliance3
COSC 1310Procedural Programming3
COSC 2341Data Structures and Algorithms3
COSC 3360Python Programming for Data Science3
COSC 4401Database Theory and Practice4
COSC 3443Computer Architecture3-4
or COSC 3380 Operating Systems
COSC 4360Machine Learning3
Advanced Electives3
Total Hours29

Molecular Biotechnology
BIOL 3303Genetics3
BIOL 3103Genetic Techniques1
BTEC 3360Biotechnology Compliance3
BIOL 4374Biochemistry I3
BIOL 4378Biochemistry Lab3
Choose 10 hours from the following course list: 10
Ecology and Evolution
Introduction to Virology
Pathogenic Microbiology
Histology
Plant Pathology
Plant Physiology
Immunology
Developmental Biology
Vaccines
Biochemistry II
Parasitology
Electives6
Total Hours29

Plant and Animal Biotechnology
AGRI 3409Genetics4
or BIOL 3303
BIOL 3103
Genetics
and Genetic Techniques
BIOL 4374Biochemistry I3
ANSC 4319Biotechnology in Agriculture3
ANSC 3323Ethical Issues in Agriculture and the Natural Resources3
or WSES 3323 Ethical Issues in Agriculture and the Natural Resources
Choose 12 hours from the following list of courses (9 hours Advanced) 12
Agronomy
and Agronomy Laboratory
Plant Pathology
Plant Physiology
Biochemistry Lab
General Entomology
Ecological Pest Management
Fundamentals of Market Gardening
Plant Propagation
Analysis of Natural Resource Data
Sustainability
Internship
Internship in the Natural Resource Sciences
Undergraduate Research in the Natural Resource Sciences
Electives4
Total Hours29

Important Information Regarding Health Professions Programs

The Pre-Medical/Pre-Dental, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Pharmacy, and Pre-Veterinary Support Areas in Biomedical Science are designed to meet or exceed the entrance requirements for medical, dental, physical therapy, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine programs in Texas. Other health professions programs including, but not limited to Physician Assistant, Optometry, Chiropractic, Occupational Therapy, Podiatry, Radiology Technician, and Dental Hygiene can vary considerably in terms of entrance requirements. Students interested in such programs are encouraged to earn a BS in Biomedical Science by following the General Biomedical Science Support Area. By allowing greater flexibility in elective courses, the General Biomedical Science Support Area can be easily adjusted to meet the entrance requirements of these health professions programs.

A program in Pre-Veterinary Medicine is also offered through the Department of Animal Science and the Department of Wildlife and Natural Resources. Although the Pre-Veterinary programs offered through these departments and the Department of Biological Sciences each meet all the requirements for admission to the Texas colleges of veterinary medicine, a student is typically best suited for one program or the other. It is important that a student discuss with an advisor which program is best suited to his or her interests, skills, and goals.

It is important to know that health profession programs may change entrance requirements without notice. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to check these requirements and work closely with an advisor to ensure that all requirements are met. If all of the entrance requirements for a professional program have been met, it is sometimes possible for a student to matriculate to the professional program prior to completing a degree at Tarleton. In this case, a student might meet the requirements of a Bachelor of Science degree at Tarleton by:

  1. fulfilling the “Degree Requirements” as stated in the Academic Information section of the catalog and
  2. transferring the necessary hours from an approved professional school to Tarleton for a minimum total of 120 hours.

Academic Advising Guides

Academic Advising Guides area available at the following website:

https://web.tarleton.edu/majorinfo/

Biology Courses

BIOL 1100. Transitioning to University Studies in Biology/Biomedical Sciences. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 1 Hour, Lab: 1 Hour).

Practical study designed to prepare the student for university life, aid in the development of skills for academic success, promote personal growth and responsibility, and encourage active involvement in the learning process from an individual college perspective. These skill sets are presented in the context of biology and biomedical disciplines.

BIOL 1185. Career Pathways in Biomedical Science. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 1 Hour, Lab: 0 Hours).

Exploration of opportunities in the health professions, biomedical research, biomedical industry, and related fields. Course is open to all majors interested in life science careers related to health and disease.

BIOL 1305. Biology for the Informed Citizen. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

The goal of this course is to introduce students to basic concepts in biology so that they can apply their knowledge in their everyday lives as informed consumers and users of scientific information. The format of the course is inquiry based within the context of important cultural and social issues. This course will give students a greater appreciation for the sciences and enhance the student’s ability to make informed and ethical decisions about biological issues that affect the global community.

BIOL 1406. Biology for Science Majors. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 2 Hours).

Fundamental principles of living organisms will be studied, including physical and chemical properties of life, organization, function, evolutionary adaptation, and classification. Concepts of cytology, reproduction, genetics, and scientific reasoning are included. Laboratory activities will reinforce the fundamental principles of living organisms, including physical and chemical properties of life, organization, function, evolutionary adaptation, and classification. Study and examination of the concepts of cytology, reproduction, genetics, and scientific reasoning are included. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 1407. Biology for Science Majors II. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 2 Hours).

The diversity and classification of life will be studied, including animals, plants, protists, fungi, and prokaryotes. Special emphasis will be given to anatomy, physiology, ecology, and evolution of plants and animals. Laboratory activities will reinforce study of the diversity and classification of life, including animals, plants, protists, fungi, and prokaryotes. Special emphasis will be given to anatomy, physiology, ecology, and evolution of plants and animals. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 2020. Biology Connect 2020. 0 Credit Hours (Lecture: 0 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

BIOL 2300. Cell Biology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

An introduction to the study of cells, including structure and function of cellular components, bioenergetics, cellular transport and communication, and the cell cycle. Prerequisite: BIOL 1406.

BIOL 2310. Essential Elements of Biology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

The study of morphology, anatomy, growth, life cycles, ecology, behavior, classification, and uses of organisms. Human systems and tissues and mechanisms of heredity and metabolism will be introduced. The laboratory will give experience in the use of the microscope, dissecting procedures, and problem solving. Enrollment in this course is restricted to Elementary Teacher Education (ETED) or Interdisciplinary Studies Majors. Prerequisite: 3 hours of CHEM, PHYS, or GEOL Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 2401. Anatomy and Physiology I. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 2 Hours).

Basic physiological principles and their applications in the study of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems are emphasized. Substantial microscopic observation required. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 2402. Anatomy & Physiology II. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 2 Hours).

Integrated study of human anatomy and physiology. Includes study of the structure and function of the human body including the following systems: endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive (including nutrition), urinary (including fluid and electrolyte balance), and reproductive (including human development and genetics). Emphasis is on interrelationships among systems and regulation of physiological functions involved in maintaining homeostasis. The lab provides a hands-on learning experience for exploration of human system components and basic physiology. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 2420. Microbiology for Non-Science Majors. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 2 Hours).

A survey of the microorganisms, their environments, and their interactions with multicellular organisms, particularly man. The course concentrates on the microorganisms which are pathogenic to man, human diseases, treatments for the diseases, and their prevention. Microorganisms need time to grow and therefore there will be several laboratory assignments throughout the course of the semester where students will be required to return the next day for about 15-45 minutes for culture analysis. Course is appropriate for pre-nursing majors. Prerequisite: 8 hours of BIOL or CHEM Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3103. Genetic Techniques. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 0 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

Application of modern genetic techniques to generate, analyze, and interpret data. Emphasis will be placed on the development of practical laboratory skills. Prerequisite: BIOL 3303 or concurrent enrollment. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3185. Immunology Lab Techniques. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 0 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

The use of current molecular techniques in cell and protein biology to assess how the immune system responds to various stimuli. Credit will not be awarded for both BIOL 3185 and BIOL 5188. Prerequisite: BIOL 3385 or concurrent enrollment Lab Fee: $2.

BIOL 3303. Genetics. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

An introduction to the study of genetics including the nature of genetic material, mechanisms of gene expression and inheritance, population genetics and evolution, and application of modern DNA technology. Prerequisites: 8 hours of BIOL with a grade of C or higher and CHEM 1311 and 1111 or higher.

BIOL 3340. Introduction to Marine Biology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

General considerations of the marine environment including habitats, biota, zoogeography, and humans' impact. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406, 1407.

BIOL 3353. Ecology and Evolution. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

The objective of this course is to convey a basic understanding of how life evolves, how organisms interact with their environments, and how evolutionary and ecological principles can be applied to a wide range of questions. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406, 1407 and (BIOL 3303 or AGRI 3409).

BIOL 3363. Study Abroad: Ecology and Evolution. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is intended to convey a basic understanding of how life evolves, how organisms interact with their environments, and how evolutionary and ecological principles can be applied to a wide range of questions. Emphasis will be placed on the writing process. This course will be an Applied Learning Experience. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406, BIOL 1407, and (BIOL 3303 or AGRI 3409).

BIOL 3380. Introduction to Virology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course covers the basic principles in the study of viruses. It will provide a foundation to understanding virus architecture and nomenclature, virus replication cycles, mechanisms of viral entry and spread of infection, host responses to viral infections, laboratory research and diagnostics of viral diseases, and epidemiology of viral infections. Prerequisite: BIOL 3407.

BIOL 3385. Immunology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

A study of the cells, tissues, and proteins that comprise the mammalian immune system focusing on how they interact to prevent, and also contribute to disease. Credit will not be awarded for both BIOL 3385 and BIOL 5385. Prerequisite: BIOL 2420 or 3407.

BIOL 3395. Pathogenic Microbiology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

A study of the disease-producing capacities of various microorganisms with emphasis on the diagnostic procedure of isolation and identification. Prerequisite: BIOL 3407 with minimum grade of "C" or approval by the department head.

BIOL 3402. Histology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

Introduction to cellular ultrastructure. Study of vertebrate tissues and their arrangement in various organs. Prerequisite: 8 hours of BIOL Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3406. Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

The morphology, physiology, and phylogeny of the organ systems of vertebrates. Laboratory study of representative vertebrates. Prerequisite: 8 hours of biology. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3407. Microbiology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 2 Hours).

Study of microorganisms; characteristics, physiology, genetics, and their interrelations with humans. Substantial microscopic observation required. Microorganisms need time to grow and therefore there will be several laboratory assignments throughout the course of the semester where students will be required to return the next day for about 15-45 minutes for culture analysis. Prerequisites: 2 semesters of BIOL and 1 semester of CHEM, or 1 semester of BIOL and 2 semesters of CHEM, or approval by the department head. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3413. Molecular Biology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Fundamentals of gene expression, gene regulation, DNA metabolism and nucleic acid structure, recombinant DNA techniques and protein structure. Prerequisites: BIOL 3303 and 3103, and either CHEM 2423 or both CHEM 2323 and CHEM 2123.

BIOL 3415. Plant Taxonomy. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

Principles of plant taxonomy. Field and laboratory studies of common Texas wild flowers and trees with emphasis on identification, collection, and preparation of herbarium specimens. Prerequisite: 8 hours of BIOL with a grade of C or better, junior classification, or department head approval. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3420. Plant Pathology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

Study of the various types of plant diseases and specific examples of each type. Emphasis upon identification, host-parasite interactions, pathogen dissemination, and control methods. Prerequisite: BIOL 1406, 3407 or approval by department head. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3430. Phycology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

Hands-on training in the taxonomy, ecology, and ecophysiology of algae. Discussion of current uses of algae for water quality, biofuel, food production, forensic science, and nanotechnology. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406 and BIOL 1407 Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3436. Plant Physiology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

A study of physiology of green plants with emphasis on nitrogen metabolism, respiration, mineral nutrition, photosynthesis, and growth. Prerequisite: BIOL 1406 or BIOL 1407 Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3449. Animal Diversity. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

The study of the morphology, taxonomy, biology, and phylogeny of the invertebrate animals. In lecture, students concentrate on basic concepts of structures, function and evolutionary development of major invertebrate groups. In lab, students are exposed to a large collection of invertebrates, learning about systematics, ecology, structure and phylogenetic relationships. Prerequisite: 12 hours of BIOL or approval by the department head. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 3485. Immunology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

Emphasis on the basic concepts of humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Laboratory: current techniques in experimental immunology and serology. Prerequisites: BIOL 2300, BIOL 3407, CHEM 1411, and CHEM 1412 Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4010. Independent Research. 0 Credit Hours (Lecture: 0 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

BIOL 4086. Biology Problems. 1-6 Credit Hours (Lecture: 0 Hours, Lab: 1-6 Hours).

A course open by invitation to capable juniors and seniors wishing to pursue a biological problem. Students are permitted and encouraged to work independently under the guidance of an instructor. May be repeated for credit, subject to the approval by the department head. Prerequisite: 14 hours of BIOL Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4090. Special Topics. 1-3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 1-3 Hours, Lab: 3-9 Hours).

Deals with selected topics in biology. May be repeated for credit when topics vary. Prerequisite: approval of department head.

BIOL 4185. Seminar. 1-3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 1-3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Survey of biological literature, biological instrumentation, history of biology, and current trends in biological sciences. Grading in this course is satisfactory/unsatisfactory. Prerequisite: 12 hours BIOL or approval of department head.

BIOL 4320. Behavioral Ecology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

The aim of this course is to understand variation in behavior among species and among individuals within a species. The course will focus on how behavior affects an animal’s ability to survive and reproduce. Prerequisites: 12 hours of biology or approval by department head.

BIOL 4325. Conservation Biology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Principles of conservation biology and the major issues that define the discipline. Study of value, threats to, and conservation of biodiversity. Conservation issues at the population and species levels, policy, and practical applications of the science will be included. Prerequisite: Course in Ecology, or department head approval.

BIOL 4340. Developmental Biology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Introduction to basic principles of developmental biology. The course will include sections on classical embryology, the molecular basis of development, and evolution of development. In addition, students will read/discuss relevant articles from the primary literature. Prerequisite: BIOL 3303 or BIOL 3403.

BIOL 4350. Vaccines. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course will cover the basic principles in the study of vaccines by providing a foundation to the understanding of the immune response to vaccinations, development of vaccinations, and the significance of individual human and animal vaccines. Prerequisite: BIOL 3407.

BIOL 4370. Organisms and Ecosystems of Texas. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

A comparisons of the organisms and ecosystems of Texas. The comparative study of the morphology, anatomy, metabolism, reproduction, and the phylogenetic and ecological relationships of organisms in Texas. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406, BIOL 1407, and CHEM 1311 and 1111, or approval of department head. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4374. Biochemistry I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

An introduction to the basic principles of biological chemistry and to fundamental processes of plants, animals and microorganisms. Credit for both BIOL 4374 and CHEM 4374 will not be awarded. Prerequisites: BIOL 3407 with "C" or better, and either CHEM 2423 or both CHEM 2323 and 2123 with "C" or better.

BIOL 4375. Biochemistry II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

A detailed survey of intermediary metabolism. The metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids, and the regulation of metabolism are emphasized. Credit for both BIOL 4375 and CHEM 4375 will not be awarded. Prerequisite: BIOL/CHEM 4374, or approval of department head.

BIOL 4378. Biochemistry Lab. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 1 Hour, Lab: 5 Hours).

Principles and applications of basic methodology for the isolation, purification, characterization, and quantitative determination of biologically important compounds. Credit for both BIOL 4378 and CHEM 4378 will not be awarded. Prerequisite: BIOL 4374 or CHEM 4374 Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4398. Current Topics in the Life Sciences. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours). [WI]

Students will apply knowledge and skills learned in previous courses to address biological issues through writing, oral presentations, and other assessments. All majors must complete this course to graduate with a BS in Biology or BS in Biomedical Science. Prerequisites: Major in Biology or Biomedical Science and at least 80 hours of coursework completed, including BIOL 1406,BIOL 1407, BIOL 2300, BIOL 3103 and BIOL 3303, BIOL 3353, and BIOL 3407, or Department Head Approval.

BIOL 4401. Ecology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

The scientific study of the biotic and abiotic interactions that determine the distribution and abundance of organisms. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406, BIOL 1407, and 4 hours of CHEM; or ENVE 2310 and 4 hours CHEM (for Environmental Engineering majors only) Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4420. Terrestrial Field Ecology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

A study of the structure and functioning of terrestrial communities with an emphasis on plants. Laboratories will be conducted over three weekends. Prerequisite: Plant Taxonomy (BIOL 3415) or department head approval Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4430. Ornithology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

A study of the basic biology of birds, including origins, systematics, ecology, biogeography, physiology, anatomy, and reproductive biology. Laboratory emphasizes identification of regional avifauna and includes multiple field trips. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406 and BIOL 1407. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4440. Herpetology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

A survey of the biology of amphibians and reptiles, with emphasis on phylogenetics, ecology, physiology, morphology, zoogeography, conservation, and taxonomy. Laboratory and field work will provide students with practical experience in collecting, identifying, and preparing specimens of regional species, as well as observing populations in natural settings. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406 and BIOL 1407. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4441. Freshwater Biology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

The study of aquatic communities and the biogeochemical factors affecting the productivity of ponds, reservoirs, and streams (Limnology). Labs focus on field collections and student-driven experimental research. Prerequisites: 8 hours of CHEM and 12 hours of BIOL, including BIOL 1406 and 1407; or 8 hours of CHEM and ENVE 2310 (for Environmental Engineering majors only). Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4445. Parasitology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

A survey of the various invertebrate parasites of medical importance with particular reference to epidemiology and the host-parasite relationship. Prerequisite: 12 hours of BIOL or approval by the department head. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4451. Mammalogy. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

A study of the evolution, anatomy, behavior, ecology, systematics, and basic biology of mammals. Laboratory work includes identification of regional mammals as well as techniques for the collection and preparation of mammalian specimens. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406 and BIOL 1407. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4460. General Physiology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

An advanced course in the fundamentals of general physiology emphasizing physiologic mechanisms from a basic molecular/cellular level up to the level of organ systems, which include the nervous, endocrine, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive and urinary systems. The basic physiologic mechanisms are presented in the context of human physiology. Laboratory exercises may involve the use of electronic instrumentation to measure physiologic responses in animals or non-invasively in human volunteers. Prerequisites: 12 hours of BIOL and CHEM 2423 Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4462. Ichthyology. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

A study of the anatomy, behavior, ecology, evolution, taxonomy, and zoogeography of fishes. Field and laboratory work provide students with practical experience in collecting, identifying, and studying fishes. Emphasis will be placed on local fauna. Prerequisites: BIOL 1406 and BIOL 1407. Lab fee: $2.

BIOL 4465. Human Anatomy. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Emphasis on structure and function of organs and organ systems of the human body from the micro-anatomical to the macro-anatomical levels. Prerequisite: BIOL 1406, BIOL 1407, CHEM 1311, and CHEM 1312 Lab Fee: $2.

Biotechnology Courses

BTEC 1185. Biotechnology Seminar. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 1 Hour, Lab: 0 Hours).

Exploration of opportunities in the biotechnology research, biotechnology industry, and related fields. Students will have the opportunity to learn the academic and co-curricular expectations necessary to be successful applicants to professional school, graduate school or entry-level industry positions.

BTEC 3350. Computational Biology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Introduction to computational tools and programming languages for biotechnology. Prerequisites: BIOL 2300 and MATH 3450.

BTEC 3360. Biotechnology Compliance. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Role of regulatory agencies during the discovery, development, and manufacture of biotechnological products. Prerequisites: GOVT 2305 and GOVT 2306 (or Government Core Complete [core 070]) and BTEC 3340.

BTEC 3440. Biotechnology Research Techniques. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Students will learn tissue culture techniques, how to introduce foreign DNA into cells, how to select for desired cells, and biochemical assays. Prerequisite: BIOL 2300 Lab Fee: $2.

BTEC 4086. Biotechnology Problems. 1-6 Credit Hours (Lecture: 0 Hours, Lab: 1-6 Hours).

A course open by invitation to capable students wishing to pursue a biotechnology problem. Students are permitted and encouraged to work independently under the guidance of an instructor. May be repeated for credit, subject to the approval by the department head.

BTEC 4090. Special Topics. 1-3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 1-3 Hours, Lab: 3-9 Hours).

Focuses on selected topics in Biotechnology. May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

BTEC 4380. Capstone in Biotechnology. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours). [WI]

Students will apply knowledge and skills learned in previous courses to address biotechnology issues through writing, oral presentations, and other assessments. All majors must complete this course to graduate with a BS in Biotechnology. Prerequisites: Major in Biology, Biotechnology, or Biomedical Science and at least 80 hours of coursework completed, including BIOL 1406,BIOL 1407, BIOL 2300, BIOL 3103 and BIOL 3303, BTEC 3340, BTEC 3350 and BIOL 3407, or Department Head Approval.

Dr. Kristin, Department Head
Department of Biological Sciences
Science Building, Room 203 C
Box T-0100
Stephenville, Texas 76402
(254) 968-9469
herrmann@tarleton.edu
www.tarleton.edu/biology

Professors

  • Herrmann, Kristin Dr.
  • Johnson, Kevin Dr.
  • Speshock, Janice Dr.
  • Sanderford, Max Dr.
  • Pfau, Russell Dr.

Associate professors

  • Chraibi, Victoria Dr.
  • Rathburn, Harold Dr.
  • Meik, Jesse Dr.
  • Edwards, Dustin Dr.

Assistant professors

  • Brock, Chad Dr.
  • Brown, Amanda Dr.

Instructor

  • James, Corban Mr.
  • Johnson, Terry Mr.
  • Price-Sweat, Callie Ms.
  • Scoggins, Brian Mr.

Visiting Instructors

  • Strongin, Kyle Dr.