Skip to Content of Page
The University of Montana - Missoula  

Course Catalog 2003-2004

 
Catalog Home Page Index of Catalog Subjects Academic Calendar  

Biology


The Division offers an undergraduate degree in biology that provides a solid foundation in core areas of the biological sciences and in supporting physical sciences and mathematics. Several options are provided within the biology degree. Options in botanical sciences, cellular and molecular biology, ecology, and zoological sciences allow specialization in biological subdisciplines and are appropriate background for certain employment opportunities and for continued graduate or professional study:

Botanical sciences: Study of plant life with an emphasis on ecology and evolution.

Cellular and molecular biology: For students wishing to concentrate on cellular and physiological aspects of biology.

Ecology: For students wishing to emphasize ecology and environmental areas of biology.

Human biological sciences: Provides a strong background in the biological sciences for students pursuing a career in the health sciences professional programs, although some programs may require additional coursework in certain areas.

Natural history: Designed especially for students wishing to combine basic natural history and biological sciences with another field such as art, journalism, or creative writing. Option is not suitable for students planning a traditional career in the biological sciences.

Zoological sciences: Option includes courses in various aspects of animal life including form, development, physiology, evolution, and ecology.

Teacher preparation in biology, Teacher preparation in general science: Two separate options designed for students seeking careers in secondary or biology science teaching.

High School Preparation: In addition to general University admission requirements, chemistry, mathematics through precalculus, and a modern foreign language are recommended.

Special Degree Requirements

Refer to graduation requirements listed previously in the catalog. See index.

Upper-Division Writing Expectation: To meet the Upper-Division Writing Expectations of the Bachelor of Arts in Biology, students must successfully complete BIOL 341 or MICB 420 and one course selected from BIOL 304, 306, 316, 366, 403, 405, 406, 410, 444, 480 or MICB 404, 410 or a senior thesis (BIOL 499 minimum 3 credits).

Option in Botanical Sciences

Forty three credits in biology including BIOL 101N-102N, 103N-104N, 221, 223, 316, 340 341, 350, and 444; a minimum of six credits selected from BIOL 418, 430, or 448 and the remaining three credits at the 300 to 400 level emphasizing biological science.

MATH 150 and 241 are required, however the prerequisite courses MATH 117 and 121 may be needed. FOR 210; CHEM 151N 152N, 154N or 151N 152N, 154N plus 221 222-223 224; and PHYS 121N 122N or 221N 222N also are required.

Option in Cellular and Molecular Biology

Forty-three to forty four credits in biology and microbiology including BIOL 101N-102N, 103N-104N, 121N, 221, 223, 301, 440; MICB 300 301, 404, 410, 420; one physiology course chosen from BIOL 345, 444 or 460, or MICB 450; and two lab courses chosen from MICB 405, 411, 421, or 451.

MATH 150 is required; however, the prerequisite course MATH 121 may be needed. BIOC 481-482; CHEM 161N 162N, 221 222-223 224, 341, 370; PHYS 121N 122N or 221N 222N also are required.

Option in Ecology

Thirty-seven to forty-two credits in biology and microbiology including BIOL 101N-102N-103N-104N, 221, 223, 340 341; one ecology course chosen from BIOL 366, 446, 448, 453, 454, 455, 456, or MICB 422, 423; one physiology course chosen from BIOL 345, 444 or MICB 450 and 451; and one course chosen from BIOL 304, 306, 308, 316, 355, 356, 405, 406, 410, 449 or 480.

MATH 150 and 241 are required, however the prerequisite courses MATH 117 and 121 may needed. CHEM 151N 152N, 154N; PHYS 121N 122N or 221N 222N also are required and select from the following two choices: CHEM 341, or MATH 444 and 447.

Option in Human Biological Sciences

Forty-two to forty-three credits in biology, biochemistry, and microbiology including BIOL 101N-102N, 212N, 213N, 221, 223, 301, 340-341, 460; MICB 300-301 (or MICB 302) and the remaining credits at the 300 or 400 level.
One year of chemistry (CHEM 151N, 152N-154N) or two years of chemistry (CHEM 161N, 162N, 221-223-222-224); MATH 150, 241; PHYS 121N, 122N or 221N, 222N; PSYC 100S, 240S or 330S also are required.

Recommended Courses: Some graduate schools in the health professions also may require course work in these areas: BIOL 103N-104N, Diversity of Life; BIOL 400, General Parisitology; BIOC 380 or 481, 482, Biochemistry; COMM 111A, Introduction to Public Speaking; HHP 236N, Nutrition; SOC 110S, Principles of Sociology.

Option in Natural History

Forty-two to forty-four credits in biology including BIOL 101N-102N-103N-104N, 221, 223, 316, 340-341, 350, 410; one course chosen from 304, 306, 355, or 356; one course chosen from 405 or 406.

CHEM 151N 152N, 154N and GEOL 100N-101N are required. Students also must complete at least 20 credits in cognate areas of anthropology, chemistry (excluding CHEM 151N-152N, 154N), geography, geology (excluding GEOL 100N-101N), forestry, mathematics, physics/astronomy, and wildlife biology. No more than 10 credits from any one of these areas can be applied toward the 20 credit requirement. Students interested in combining this option with another subject area may, with the advisor's permission, substitute 20 credits in English writing, journalism, photography, art, foreign language, business management, or other appropriate field.

Option in Zoological Sciences

Forty two to forty five credits in biology including BIOL 101N-102N, 103N-104N, 221, 223, 301, 340 341, 345, 403, 410 and two courses chosen from BIOL 304, 306, 308, 355, 356, 400-401, 405, 406, 446, 449, 456, or 480.
MATH 150 and 241 are required; however, the prerequisite courses MATH 117 and 121 may be needed. CHEM 151N 152N, and 154N or 161N 162N, 221 222-223 224 and PHYS 121N-122N or 221N-222N also are required.

Teacher Preparation in Biology

Option in Biological Education Major Teaching Field of Biology: This option is designed for students seeking an endorsement in the major teaching field of biology.

A student must complete thirty-four credits in biology and microbiology including BIOL 101N 102N-103N 104N, 221, 223, 340 341, 444; MICB 300 301 and one course chosen from BIOL 301 or 345.

MATH 150 or 152 and 241 are required; however, the prerequisite courses MATH 117 and 121 may be needed. CHEM 151N 152N, 154N, 485; PHYS 121N; C&I 426; and one course chosen from GEOL 109 or 301 also are required.

For endorsement to teach biology, a student also must gain admission to Teacher Education and Student Teaching and meet all the requirements for certification as a secondary teacher (see the School of Education section of this catalog).

Biology qualifies for a single field endorsement. However, there is a limited demand in most Montana high schools for teachers with a single endorsement in biology, and students are advised to complete the requirements for a second teaching endorsement (major or minor).

Minor Teaching Field of Biology: For an endorsement in the minor teaching field of biology, a student must complete BIOL 101N 102N, 103N 104N, 221, 223; MICB 300 301; C&I 426; GEOL 109N or GEOL 301; MATH 150 or 152, 241; and CHEM 151N-152N, 485. A student also must gain admission to Teacher Education and Student Teaching and must meet the requirements for certification as a secondary teacher (see the School of Education section of this catalog).

Teacher Preparation in General Science

Extended Major Teaching Field of General Science: A student is awarded a B.A. with a major in biology with an ecology option by completing the following 60 credits in astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, mathematics and physics: ASTR 131N, 134N; BIOL 101N-102N, 103N 104N, 221, 223, 340 341; CHEM 152N, 161N 162N, 485; GEOL 100N-101N, 301; MATH 150 or 152, 241 (the prerequisite courses MATH 117 and 121 may be needed); and PHYS 121N 122N or 221N 222N. C&I 426 also is required.

Highly recommended are BIOL 345, MICB 300 301, and CHEM 101N.

For an endorsement in the extended major teaching field of General Science, a student must gain admission to Teacher Education and Student Teaching, complete C&I 426 and meet the requirement for certification as a secondary teacher (see the School of Education section of this catalog.)

Suggested Course of Study

Biological Education Option

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N-104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry

3

-

CHEM 152N Organic and Biological Chemistry

-

3

CHEM 154N General Chemistry Laboratory

-

2

ENEX 101 Composition

-

3

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

PSYC 100S Introduction to Psychology

4

-

General Education

-

2

Total

15

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

C&I 200 Exploring Teaching

1

-

GEOL 109N Environmental Geoscience

2

-

MATH 241 Statistics

4

-

MICB 300-301 General Microbiology & Laboratory

-

5

Lower-division writing course

-

3

General Education

3

3

Total

14

15

Third Year

BIOL 340-341 Ecology and Laboratory

5

-

BIOL 345 Principles of Physiology (or BIOL 301
in spring)

3

-

BIOL 444 Plant Physiology

-

4

C&I 303 Educational Psychology and Measurement

3

-

CHEM 485 Laboratory Safety

-

1

PHYS 121N General Physics I

-

5

General Education/Native American Studies course

3

3

HHP 233 Health Issues of Children and Adolescents

-

3

Total

14

16

Fourth Year

C&I 301 or 302 Field Experience

1

-

C&I 306 Instructional Media and Computer Applications

3

-

C&I 407E Ethics and Policy Issues

3

-

C&I 410 Exceptionality and Classroom Management

3

-

C&I 426 Teaching Science in the Middle and Secondary School

3

-

C&I 427 Literary Strategies in Content Areas

3

-

C&I 482 Student Teaching: Secondary

-

14

C&I 494 Professional Portfolio

-

1

Total

16

15


Botanical Sciences Option with One Year of Chemistry

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N-104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry

3

-

CHEM 152N Organic and Biological Chemistry

-

3

CHEM 154N General Chemistry Laboratory

-

2

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

MATH 241 Statistics

-

4

Elective

1

1

Total

15

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

BIOL 350 Rocky Mountain Flora

-

3

FOR 210 Soils

3

-

PHYS 121N-122N General Physics I, II

5

5

Lower-division writing course

3

-

General Education

-

3

Total

15

15

Third Year

BIOL 316 Plant Form and Function

-

5

BIOL 340-341 Ecology and Laboratory

5

-

General Education

9

3

Upper-division elective

-

5

Electives

1

2

Total

15

15

Fourth Year

BIOL 430 Biogeography

-

3

BIOL 444 Plant Physiology

-

4

BIOL 448 Terrestrial Plant Ecology

4

-

Upper-division elective in biology

3

-

Upper-division elective

3

4

General Education

3

-

Electives

2

4

Total

15

15


Botanical Sciences Option with Two Years of Chemistry

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N-104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry

3

-

CHEM 152N Organic and Biological Chemistry

-

3

CHEM 154N General Chemistry Laboratory

-

2

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

MATH 241 Statistics

-

4

Elective

1

1

Total

15

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

BIOL 350 Rocky Mountain Flora

-

3

CHEM 221-222-223-223 Organic Chemistry and Laboratory

5

5

FOR 210 Soils

3

-

Writing course

3

-

General Education

3

6

Total

15

15

Third Year

BIOL 316 Plant Form and Function

-

5

BIOL 340-341 Ecology and Laboratory

-

5

PHYS 121N-122N General Physics I, II

5

5

General Education

6

-

Upper-division elective

5

-

Total

16

15

Fourth Year

BIOL 430 Biogeography

-

3

BIOL 444 Plant Physiology

-

4

BIOL 448 Terrestrial Plant Ecology

4

-

Upper-division elective in biology

3

-

Upper-division General Education

3

-

General Education

3

3

Upper-division elective

2

2

Elective

-

2

Total

15

14


Cellular and Molecular Biology Option

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N-104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 161N-162N College Chemistry

5

5

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

General Education

-

3

Elective

-

2

Total

16

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

CHEM 221-222-223-223 Organic Chemistry and Laboratory

5

5

MICB 300-301 General Microbiology and Laboratory

-

5

Lower-division writing course

3

-

General Education

3

 

Total

15

14

Third Year

BIOC 481-482 Biochemistry

3

3

MICB 404 Molecular Genetics

-

3

MICB 405 Molecular Genetics Laboratory or 411, 421, 451

-

1

MICB 410 Immunology

3

-

MICB 411 Immunology Lab or 421 or 451

2

-

PHYS 121N-122N or 221N-222N General Physics

5

5

General Education

-

3

Electives

1

-

Total

14

15

Fourth Year

BIOL 121N Introductory Ecology

3

-

BIOL 301 Developmental Biology

-

3

BIOL 345 Principles of Physiology

3

-

BIOL 440 Biological Electron Microscopy

-

2

CHEM 341 Quantitative Analysis and
Instrumental Methods

4

-

CHEM 370 Applied Physical Chemistry

-

3

MICB 420 Virology

-

3

General Education

6

3

Upper-division electives

-

1

Total

16

15


Ecology Option

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N-104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry

3

-

CHEM 152N Organic and Biological Chemistry

-

3

CHEM 154N General Chemistry Laboratory

-

2

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

MATH 241 Statistics

-

4

Electives

1

1

Total

15

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

CHEM 221-222-223-223 Organic Chemistry and Laboratory PHYS 121N-122N or 221N-222N General Physics

5

-

MICB 300-301 General Microbiology and Laboratory

-

5

Lower-division writing course

3

-

General Education

3

6

Total

15

14

Third Year

BIOL 340 341 Ecology and Laboratory

5

-

BIOL 345 Principles of Physiology or 444 or MICB 450 and 451

3

-

BIOL 366 Freshwater Ecology or 446, 448, 453, 454, 455, 456,or MICB 422, 423

-

5

General Education

3

6

Upper-division elective

3

4

Electives

1

-

Total

15

15

Fourth Year

BIOL 306 Mammalogy or 304, 306, 308, 316, 355, 356, 405, 406, 410, 449 or 480

4

-

MATH 444 Statistical Methods

3

-

MATH 447 Computer Data Analysis

1

-

Upper-division elective

4

7

Electives

3

8

Total

15

15


Ecology Option for Teacher Preparation in General Science

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N-104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 161N-162N College Chemistry

5

5

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

PSYC 100S Introduction to Psychology

-

4

Elective

-

1

Total

16

15

Second Year

ASTR 131N, 134N Elementary Astronomy and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

C&I 200 Exploring Teaching

-

1

CHEM 152N Organic and Biological Chemistry

-

3

GEOL 100N-101N General Geology and Laboratory

-

3

MATH 241 Statistics

4

-

General Education/Native American Studies course

-

3

Lower-division writing course

3

-

Total

15

14

Third Year

BIOL 340 341 Ecology and Laboratory

5

-

C&I 303 Educational Psychology and Measurement

-

3

GEOL 301 Environmental Geology

3

-

PHYS 121N-122N General Physics I, II

5

5

Upper-division biology writing course

-

3

General Education

3

3

Total

16

14

Fourth Year

C&I 301 or 302 Field Experience

1

-

C&I 306 Instructional Media and Computer Applications

3

-

C&I 407E Ethics and Policy Issues

3

-

C&I 410 Exceptionality and Classroom
Management

3

-

C&I 426 Teaching Science in the Middle and
Secondary School

3

-

C&I 427 Literary Strategies in Content Areas

3

-

CHEM 485 Laboratory Safety

-
1

HHP 233 Health Issues of Children and
Adolescents

-
3

General Education

-
3

Electives

-
8

Total

16

15

Fifth Year A

 

 

C&I 482 Student Teaching: Secondary

14

 

C&I 494 Professional Portfolio

1

 

Total

15

 



Human Biological Sciences Option with One Year of Chemistry

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry

3

-

CHEM 152N Organic and Biological Chemistry

-

3

CHEM 154N General Chemistry Laboratory

-

2

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

MATH 241 Statistics

-

4

PSYC 100S Introduction to Psychology

-

4

Elective

1

2

Total

15

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

PHYS 121N-122N General Physics I, II

5

5

PSYC 330S Abnormal Psychology or PSYC 240S (if 240S, must have 3 more upper-division credits)

-

3

Lower-division writing course

-

3

General Education

6

-

Total

15

15

Third Year

BIOL 212N, 213N Anatomy and Physiology I and II

4

4

BIOL 301 Developmental Biology

-

3

BIOL 340-341 Ecology

5

-

MICB 302 Medical Microbiology

3

-

General Education

3

3

Upper-division elective

-

3

Elective

-

2

Total

15

15

Fourth Year

BIOL 306 Mammology or upper-division Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry elective

4

-

BIOL 403 Vertebrate Design and Evolution or upper-division Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry elective that meets the UD
biology Writing requirement

4

-

BIOL 460 Medical Physiology

-

3

Upper-division

7

4

Electives

-

8

Total

15

15


Human Biological Sciences Option with Two Years of Chemistry

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

CHEM 161N-162N College Chemistry

5

5

ENEX 101 Composition

-

3

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

MATH 241 Statistics

-

4

PSYC 100S Introduction to Psychology

-

4

Elective

1

-

Total

15

16

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

CHEM 221-222-223-223 Organic Chemistry and
Laboratory

5

5

MICB 300-301 General Microbiology and Laboratory

-

5

Lower-division writing course

3

-

General Education

3

-

Total

15

14

Third Year

BIOL 212N, 213N Anatomy and Physiology I and II

4

4

BIOL 301 Developmental Biology

-

3

BIOL 380 Fundamental Biochemistry or other upper-division biology, microbiology or biochemistry

4

-

PHYS 121N-122N General Physics I, II

5

5

PSYC 330S Abnormal Psychology or PSYC 240S (if 240S, must have 3 more upper-division credits)

-

3

General Education

3

-

Total

16

15

Fourth Year

BIOL 340-341 Ecology and Laboratory

-

5

BIOL 460 Medical Physiology

-

3

MICB 410 Immunology or other upper-division biology, microbiology,
or biochemistry elective that meets the biology Writing requirement

3

-

Upper-division General Education

-

3

General Education

6

-

Upper-Division

6

4

Total

15

15


Natural History Option

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N 104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry

3

-

CHEM 152N Organic and Biological Chemistry

-

3

CHEM 154N General Chemistry Laboratory

-

2

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 117 Probability and Linear Mathematics

3

-

MATH 241 Statistics

-

4

Elective

2

1

Total

15

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

BIOL 350 Rocky Mountain Flora

3

-

GEOL 100N-101N General Geology and Laboratory

-

3

Lower-division writing course

3

-

General Education

3

3

Electives

2

2

Total

15

15

Third Year

BIOL 340-341 Ecology

3

-

BIOL 341 Ecology Laboratory

2

-

BIOL 316 Plant Form and Function

-

5

Cognate course

3

4

Upper-division cognate course

-

3

General Education

6

-

Upper-division elective

1

3

Total

15

15

Fourth Year

BIOL 306 Mammalogy or 304, 355, 356

4

-

BIOL 405 Animal Behavior or 406

-

3

BIOL 410 Insect Biology

-

4

Cognate course

3

-

Upper-division electives

3

5

General Education

3

-

Electives

2
3

Total

15
15


Zoological Sciences Option with One Year of Chemistry

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N 104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry

3

-

CHEM 152N Organic and Biological Chemistry

-

3

CHEM 154N General Chemistry Laboratory

-

2

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

MATH 241 Statistics

-

4

Elective

1

1

Total

15

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

PHYS 121N-122N General Physics I, II

5

5

Lower-division writing course

3

-

General Education

3

6

Total

15

15

Third Year

BIOL 301 Developmental Biology

-

3

BIOL 340 341 Ecology and Laboratory

5

-

BIOL 345 Principles of Physiology

3

-

General Education

6

3

Upper-division elective

-

6

Elective

1

3

Total

15

15

Fourth Year

BIOL 306 Mammology and 304, 308, 355, 405, 406, 446, 449, 456, 480 or both 400 and 401

4

4

BIOL 403 Vertebrate Design and Evolution

4

-

BIOL 410 Insect Biology

-

4

Upper-division electives

3

-

Electives

4
7

Total

15
15


Zoological Sciences Option with Two Years of Chemistry

First Year

Autumn

Spring

BIOL 101N-102N Principles of Biology and Laboratory

4

-

BIOL 103N 104N Diversity of Life and Laboratory

-

5

CHEM 161N-162N College Chemistry

5

5

ENEX 101 Composition

3

-

MATH 150 Applied Calculus

4

-

MATH 241 Statistics

-

4

Elective

-

1

Total

16

15

Second Year

BIOL 221 Cell and Molecular Biology

4

-

BIOL 223 Genetics and Evolution

-

4

CHEM 221N-222N-223N-224N Organic Chemistry and Laboratory

5

5

Lower-division writing course

3

-

General Education

3

6

Total

15

15

Third Year

BIOL 301 Developmental Biology

-

3

BIOL 340 341 Ecology and Laboratory

5

-

BIOL 345 Principles of Physiology

3

-

PHYS 121N-122N General Physics I, II

5

5

General Education

3

3

Upper-division elective

-

3

Total

16

14

Fourth Year

BIOL 306 Mammology and 304, 308, 355, 405, 406, 446, 449, 456, 480 or both 400 and 401

4

4

BIOL 403 Vertebrate Design and Evolution

4

-

BIOL 410 Insect Biology

-

4

Upper-division electives

3

6

General Education

3

-

Electives

-
1

Total

14
15


Requirements for a Minor

To earn a minor in biology, the student must complete a minimum of 25 credits in biology including BIOL 101N 102N, 103N 104N, 221 and 223 and 8 credits in biology, biochemistry or microbiology at the 300 400 level. Exemption from BIOL 101N 102N may be allowed with approval of an advisor in the Division. All courses must be taken for a traditional letter grade.

Courses

U = for undergraduate credit only, UG = for undergraduate or graduate credit, G = for graduate credit. R after the credit indicates the course may be repeated for credit to the maximum indicated after the R.

Biology (BIOL)
U 100N The Science of Life 3 cr. Offered autumn. Contemporary exploration of the organization and complexity of living organisms and the systems in which they live. The central question of biology relationship between form and function, acquisition and use of energy, and continuity between generations will be addressed through lectures and laboratory investigations. Credit not allowed toward a major in biology. Credit not allowed for both BIOL 100N and 101N.
U 101N Principles of Biology 3 cr. Offered autumn. Unifying principles of biological structure function relationships at different levels of organization and complexity. Energy, substances, organisms. Reproduction, genetics, development, evolution, ecosystems, the inter relationships of the human species to the rest of life. Credit not allowed for both BIOL 100N and 101N.
U 102N Principles of Biology Laboratory 1 cr. Offered autumn. Coreq., BIOL 101N. A series of laboratory experiences illustrating basic biological principles including growth, reproduction, development, genetics and physiological processes.
U 103N Diversity of Life 3 cr. Offered spring. Survey of the diversity, evolution and ecology of life including prokaryotes, viruses, protista, fungi, plants and animals.
U 104N Diversity of Life Laboratory 2 cr. Offered spring. Coreq., BIOL 103N. The diversity of life including prokaryotes, viruses, protista, fungi, plants and animals including structure and evolutionary relationships.
U 105N Elementary Microbiology 3 cr. Offered autumn. Coreq., BIOL 107N recommended. Same as MICB 105N. The structure, function and classification of bacteria, molds, yeasts, rickettsiae and viruses, and their practical significance to agriculture, food, drug, fermentation and other industries. Credit not allowed toward a major in microbiology.
U 106N Elementary Medical Microbiology 3 cr. Offered spring. Infectious diseases, including concepts of virulence, resistance, prevention and control of microbial diseases in the individual and in the community. If laboratory experience is desired, the student may enroll concurrently in BIOL 107N. Credit not allowed toward a major in microbiology.
U 107N Elementary Microbiology Laboratory 1 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq. or coreq., BIOL 105N or 106N. Same as MICB 107N. Observation of live microorganisms, their characteristics and activities. Experience with microbiological techniques. Credit not allowed toward a major in microbiology.
U 120N General Botany 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., consent of instr. Introduction to the plant kingdom including anatomy, physiology and ecology.
U 121N Introductory Ecology 3 cr. Offered autumn. An introduction to ecological principles, stressing the structure and function of natural communities and examining human's role in these ecosystems.
U 195 Special Topics Variable cr. (R 6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one time offerings of current topics.
U 198 Cooperative Education Experience Variable cr. (R 9) Offered intermittently. Prereq., consent of Division. Extended classroom experience that provides practical application of learning during placement off campus. Prior approval must be obtained from the faculty supervisor and the Center for Work-Based Learning.
U 201N Montana Wildlife 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., one course in biology. Interpreting biological patterns associated with selected Montana wildlife species, including mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.
U 212N Anatomy and Physiology I 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq. or coreq., CHEM 151N or CHEM 161N; BIOL 101N, 102N strongly recommended. Introduction to basic cellular structure and function. The fundamental facts and concepts of the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary, musculoskeletal, nervous and endocrine systems.
U 213N Anatomy and Physiology II 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 212. The fundamental facts and concepts of the anatomy and physiology of the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems.
U 221 Cell and Molecular Biology 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 101N or equiv. and one year of college chemistry. Description and analysis of biological structures and processes at the cellular and subcellular levels including molecular genetics, energy, metabolism and cell differentiation.
U 223 Genetics and Evolution 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 221. Principles and mechanisms of inheritance and evolution. Population genetics, fossil record, macroevolution, speciation, extinction, systematics, molecular evolution.
U 265N Human Sexuality 3 cr. Offered spring. Same as ANTH 265N. Biological, behavioral, cross cultural aspects of human sexuality to help students place their own sexuality and that of others in a broader perspective. Includes sexual anatomy, physiology, development, reproduction, diseases, determination, as well as gender development and current issues.
U 295 Special Topics Variable cr. (R 6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one time offerings of current topics.
U 298 Cooperative Education Experience Variable cr. (R 9) Offered intermittently. Prereq., consent of Division. Extended classroom experience that provides practical application of learning during placement off campus. Prior approval must be obtained from the faculty supervisor and the Center for Work-Based Learning.
UG 301 Developmental Biology 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 221; BIOL 223 recommended. An analysis of the origin and development of form and patterns in organisms, stressing the processes of growth and differentiation in plants and animals.
UG 302 Comparative Vertebrate Embryology 2 cr. Offered spring. Coreq., BIOL 301. A laboratory course emphasizing comparative embryological development of vertebrates.
UG 304 Ornithology 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 103N, 104N and 223. The classification, structure, evolution, behavior and ecology of birds.
UG 306 Mammalogy 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 103N, 104N and 223. The evolution, systematics, anatomy, physiology and ecology of mammals.
UG 308 Biology and Management of Fishes 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 103N, 104N, 223 and one year of college mathematics. Diversity, adaptations and ecology of fishes. Analysis and management of fish populations and communities.
UG 315 Peer Advising 1 cr. (R-6) Offered every term. Prereq., junior standing or current enrollment in BIOL 223. Supervised training and internship for peer advisors who will gain knowledge and ability to communicate degree requirements and relate the various degree offerings to professional and career goals. No more than two credits are allowed toward upper-division major requirements.
U 316 Plant Form and Function 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 103N-104N, 221. Prereq. or coreq., BIOL 223. Anatomy, morphology, ecology and physiology of photosynthetic organisms.
U 339 Listening to Ecology 2 cr. Offered autumn. Preparatory readings and attendance at seminars on a wide variety of ecological and wildlife management topics followed by critiques.
UG 340 Ecology 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., BIOL 223 and one year of college mathematics including MATH 241 or equiv. Analysis of the distribution and abundance of plants and animals. Includes individual, population and community level processes (e.g., population growth and regulation, competition, predation, succession, nutrient cycling, energy flow and community organization).
UG 341 Ecology Laboratory 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Coreq., BIOL 340. Methods of describing and testing alternative explanations for patterns in nature. The use of scientific methodology in ecology.
UG 345 Principles of Physiology 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 221 or equiv. Animal physiology with emphasis on functional processes of organisms. Physiological mechanism involved in coordination, movement, metabolism, respiration, circulation, excretion and temperature regulation at the molecular, tissue and organ or organ system levels.
U 350 Rocky Mountain Flora 3 cr. Offered every term. Prereq., one college-level course in BIOL or consent of instr. Elements of the evolution, geography and natural affinities of flowering plants. Identification using a manual of native plants of Montana.
UG 355 Ecology of Mammals 4 cr. Prereq., BIOL 223 or equiv. Offered summers only at Flathead Lake Biological Station. The identification, natural history and behavior of mammals.
UG 356 Ecology of Birds 4 cr. Prereq., BIOL 223 or equiv. Offered summers only at Flathead Lake Biological Station. The identification, natural history, and behavior of western Montana birds.
UG 366 Freshwater Ecology 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 103N, 104N and one year of college chemistry. Physical and chemical dynamics of lakes and streams. Diversity, distribution and dynamics of freshwater organisms.
U 395 Special Topics Variable cr. (R 10) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one time offerings of current topics.
U 397 Research 1 10 cr. (R 10) Offered every term. Prereq., consent of instr. Independent research under the direction of a faculty member. Graded pass/not pass.
U 398 Cooperative Education Experience 1 12 cr. (R 12) Offered intermittently. Prereq., consent of the Division. Extended classroom experience that provides practical application of learning during placement off campus. Prior approval must be obtained from the faculty supervisor and the Center for Work-Based Learning.
UG 400 General Parasitology 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 223. Parasitism as a biological phenomenon, origin of parasitism, adaptations and life cycles, parasite morphology, fine structure, physiology, parasites and their environment.
UG 401 General Parasitology Laboratory 2 cr. Offered autumn. Coreq., BIOL 400. Taxonomy, morphology and identification of parasitic protozoa, helminths and arthropods.
UG 403 Vertebrate Design and Evolution 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 103N, 104N and 223 and PHYS 121N or 221N. Evolutionary patterns of animal morphology and the importance of body size on life history patterns. Phylogenetic study of major extant and extinct vertebrate groups. Laboratory includes systematic study of organ systems and workshops in experimental functional morphology.
UG 405 Animal Behavior 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 223, senior standing or consent of instr. The description and evolutionary interpretation of animal behavior under natural conditions. Laboratory involves observation and recording of animal behavior.
UG 406 Insect Behavior and Evolution 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 223; BIOL 405 preferred. Diversity of insect behavior in an evolutionary context including inheritance of behavior, diets, avoidance responses, mating systems and sexual selection, parental care, and evolution of insect groups and societies. Discussion sections examine both landmark and recent literature.
UG 408 Advanced Fisheries Science 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 308. Quantitative analysis and interpretation of fish population and community data for use in management. Selection, application and evaluation of management techniques.
UG 410 Insect Biology 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 103N, 104N and 223. Offered spring. The classification, morphology, anatomy, development, life-history, behavior and ecology of insects. Labs include identification of major insect groups, internal and external anatomy and student collections.
UG 413 Field Ecology 3 cr. (R 9) Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 340 and 341, MATH 241, or equiv. and consent of instr. Firsthand experience with the methods of developing and conducting research in field ecology. Independent research projects during an extended field trip required, followed by data analysis, a written report and an oral report during the subsequent semester.
UG 415 Field Methods in Fisheries Biology and Management 1 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 308; onsent of instr. Same as WBIO 441. Field instruction by practicing biologists in techniques for evaluating and managing aquatic habitats and fish populations.
UG 418 Fungal Biology 3 cr. Offered autumn even-numbered years. Prereq., BIOL 103-104 and 221-223 or MICB 300 or consent of instr. Same as MICB 418. Reviews the definition, evolution, genetics, physiology, and ecology of fungi (including organisms in the Chromista), provides overview of all fungal phyla (Chytridiomycota, Zygomycota, Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Hyphochytriomycota, Labyrinthulomycota, Oomycota), and highlights the importance of fungi to human affairs (food production, fungal pathogens).
UG 419 Diversity of Microorganisms 3 cr. Offered spring odd-numbered years. Prereq., BIOL 221, 223. Same as MICB 419. An inquiry-based, combined lecture and laboratory course. Examination of the diversity of life at the microbial level based on broad concepts and testable hypotheses that are examined in the laboratory using state-of-the-art techniques.
UG 420 Plant Systematics 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 223, 250 and 316. Principles of plant evolution and classification. Analyzing variation in populations; cytogenetic, chemical, phenetic and cladistic methods.
UG 421 Plant Systematics Laboratory 1 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq. or coreq., BIOL 420. Analysis of variation in plant populations using morphological and molecular methods.
UG 430 Plant Biogeography 3 cr. Prereq., consent of instr. Offered alternate years. Description of the distribution of plants and animals at global, continental and regional scales. Analysis of ecological and historical factors influencing distribution and association.
UG 440 Biological Electron Microscopy 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., senior standing or consent of instr. Theory of electron microscopy, recent developments in transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Limited experience with the instruments.
UG 444 Plant Physiology 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 103N-104N, 120N or 312. The chemical and physical basis of water relations, photosynthesis, mineral nutrition, respiration, vegetative and reproductive growth of plants.
UG 446 Wildlife Physiological Ecology 3 cr. Offered spring. Same as WBIO 446. Prereq., BIOL 221, 223 and 340. How physiological and biochemical processes in animals influence behavior and ecology. Application of physiological approaches to wildlife conservation such as assessment of animal health, nutritional condition, and physiological performance.
UG 448 Terrestrial Plant Ecology 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., an introductory college course in ecology. The interrelationships between plants and plant communities and their natural environment.
UG 449 Plant-Animal Interactions 4 cr. Offered summers only at Flathead Lake Biological Station. Prereq., a college course in ecology. Concepts and techniques for understanding the interdependent relationships between plants and animals. Emphasis given to ecological and behavioral studies.
UG 453 Lake Ecology 3 cr. Offered summers only at Flathead Lake Biological Station. Prereq., BIOL 223, CHEM 162N and a college course in ecology. The biogeochemical processes that characterize the lakes and ponds of western Montana.
UG 454 River Ecology 3 cr. Offered summers only at Flathead Lake Biological Station. Prereq., BIOL 223, CHEM 162N and a college course in ecology. The biogeochemical processes that characterize the streams and rivers of western Montana.
UG 455 Groundwater and Riparian Ecology 3 cr. Offered summers only at Flathead Lake Biological Station. Prereq., BIOL 223, CHEM 162N and a college course in ecology. Principles and methods for identifying and understanding surface and groundwater interactions in a watershed context. Emphasis on the ecology of groundwater and riparian food webs.
UG 456 Aquatic Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation 3 cr. Offered summers only at Flathead Lake Biological Station. Prereq., BIOL 223, CHEM 162N and a college course in ecology. Concepts and techniques for sustaining the natural ecological integrity of vertebrate communities of lakes, streams and wetlands. Focus is on field studies of fishes and amphibians.
UG 460 Medical Physiology 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., C or better in BIOL 212N, 213, one year college chemistry or consent of instr. An advanced course in human physiology for students preparing for careers in health care.
U 471 Teaching Anatomy and Physiology I 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 212N and 213N or equiv. and consent of instr. Advanced instruction in prosection of cadavers, the preparation of laboratory demonstrations and materials, and in the teaching of anatomy and physiology laboratories.
U 472 Teaching Anatomy and Physiology II 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., BIOL 212N and 213N or equiv. and consent of instr. Continuation of BIOL 471. Advanced instruction in prosection of cadavers, the preparation of laboratory demonstrations and materials, and in the teaching of anatomy and physiology laboratories.
UG 480 Conservation Genetics 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., BIOL 223. Genetic basis for solving biological problems in conservation including the genetics of small populations, the application of molecular genetic techniques to conservation biology and case studies of the application of genetics to conservation problems.
UG 486 Field Techniques in Mammalogy 2 cr. Offered every term. Prereq., BIOL 306 or equiv. and consent of instr. A "hands-on" approach to lab and field techniques employed for the study of mammals. Includes mark/recapture live trapping methods, remote cameras, and tracking plates of non-invasive censussing.
U 493 Omnibus 1 10 cr. Offered intermittently. Prereq., consent of instr. Independent work under the University omnibus option. See index.
UG 494 Seminar in Biology 1 cr. (R 3) Offered intermittently. Prereq., consent of instr.
UG 495 Special Topics Variable cr. (R 10) Offered intermittently. Prereq., consent of instr. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one time offerings of current topics.
UG 497 Advanced Undergraduate Research 1-10 cr. (R 10) Offered every term. Prereq., junior or senior standing and consent of instr. Independent research under the direction of a faculty member. Graded pass/not pass.
U 498 Cooperative Education Experience 1 12 cr. (R 12) Offered intermittently. Prereq., consent of the Division. Extended classroom experience that provides practical application of learning during placement off campus. Prior approval must be obtained from the faculty supervisor and the Center for Work-Based Learning.
U 499 Undergraduate Thesis 3-6 cr. (R-6) Offered every term. Prereq., senior standing and consent of instr. Preparation of a thesis or manuscript based on undergraduate research for presentation and/or publication. Student must give oral or poster presentation at the Biological Sciences Undergraduate Research Symposium or a scientific meeting. Graded pass/not pass.
G 501 Graduate Issues and Policies 1 cr. Prereq., graduate standing in biological sciences. Discussion of issues of importance to new graduate students, including the philosophy of graduate education, the mentor student relationship, the role of the teaching assistant, handling ethical quandaries, library resources and bibliographic searches, animal use policies and issues, proposal writing and the publication process. Review of ongoing research by faculty in the organismal biology and ecology program.
G 502 Teaching Biology 3 cr. Prereq., graduate standing or consent of instr. Offered alternate years. Examination of current literature on appropriate instruction and classroom management techniques, philosophies of science education reform movements, developing innovative investigations, and classroom assessment strategies. Recommended for teaching assistants and students pursuing faculty careers at pre college and college levels.
G 510 Avian Ecology 3 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Prereq., graduate standing in EVST, BIOL, WBIO; upper-division course in ecology; or consent of instr. Review of recent developments in avian ecology with special emphasis on scientific methodology.
G 511 Behavioral Ecology 3 cr. Prereq., BIOL 340, graduate standing, or consent of instr. Offered alternate years. Review and discussion of recent studies dealing with behavioral aspects of ecology, including such topics as territoriality, mate choice, social systems, habitat selection, foraging theory and migration.
G 513 Community Ecology 3 cr. Prereq., BIOL 340 or equiv., consent of instr. Offered alternate years. Current concepts of species interactions, succession, food webs, temporal and spatial patterns and quantitative characterization of community structure.
G 517 Advanced Plant Ecology 3 cr. Prereq., upper division course in ecology or consent of instr. Offered alternate years. Review and discussion of recent advances in plant ecology.
G 522 Readings in Morphology, Physiology and Ecology 1 cr. (R 8) Prereq., graduate standing and consent of instr. Review and discussion of current literature in the fields of morphology, physiology, and ecology.
G 524 Physiological Plant Ecology 3 cr. Prereq., BIOL 340 and 444. Offered alternate years. The physiological basis of plant adaptation and response to the environment.
G 526 Current Trends in Plant Ecology 2 cr. (R-16) Prereq., graduate standing. Current concepts, theory, and experiments in plant ecology.
G 530 Advanced Topics in Physiology 1 4 cr. (R 8) Prereq., consent of instr. Offered alternate years. Topics vary but emphasize aspects of comparative or environmental physiology of animals and/or plants.
G 541 Electron Microscopy Laboratory Variable cr. (R 6) Prereq. or coreq., BIOL 440 or equiv. Practical laboratory experience in the preparation of various biological materials, hands on operation of the transmission electron microscope.
G 550 Pollution Ecology 3 cr. Prereq., college ecology course or consent of instr. Same as EVST 550. Environmental fate and biological effects of water pollutants, especially in aquatic ecosystems. Pollution reduction and prevention strategies; related law and policies.
G 551 Environmental Field Study 1-3 cr. (R-3) Prereq. or coreq., BIOL 550 or EVST 540 or 560. Same as EVST 551. Designing, executing, and interpreting environmental studies. Project oriented.
G 561 Population Genetics Seminar 1 2 cr. (R 12) Prereq., consent of instr. or graduate standing. Current topics in population genetics, evolutionary biology, molecular evolution and related topics.
G 575 Frontiers in Conservation Research 2 cr. (R-6) Same as WBIO 575. Exploration of current topics in conservation biology.
G 594 Seminar in Biology 1 cr. (R 6) Prereq., graduate standing or consent of instr. A review and discussion of current research in biology. Topics vary.
G 595 Special Topics 1 8 cr. (R 8) Prereq., graduate standing and consent of instr. Experimental offering of new courses by resident or visiting faculty.
G 596 Independent Study 1 8 cr. (R 8) Prereq., consent of instr. Credit for independent research project unrelated to thesis or dissertation.
G 597 Research 1 8 cr. (R 12) Prereq., consent of instr. Library work involved with preparation o a thesis or dissertation proposal.
G 598 Cooperative Education Experience 1 8 cr. (R 8) Prereq., consent of the Division, graduate standing. Extended classroom experience that provides practical application of learning during placement off campus. Prior approval must be obtained from the faculty supervisor and the Center for Work-Based Learning.
G 599 Thesis 1 10 cr. (R 10) Prereq., masters student in biology. Field and laboratory research on, and writing of, a student's masters thesis.
G 699 Dissertation 1 10 cr. (R 20) Prereq., doctoral student in biology. Credit for field and laboratory research on, and writing of, a student's doctoral dissertation

 

 

Home | Index | Calendar

Copyright© Spectral Fusion, 2003. All Rights Reserved.