| 253.535.7561 | www.plu.edu/biology/ | biology@plu.edu |
| Neva Laurie-Berry, Ph.D., Chair |
To learn biology is more than to learn facts: it is to learn how to ask and answer questions, how to develop strategies that might be employed to obtain answers, and how to recognize and evaluate the answers that emerge. The department is, therefore, dedicated to encouraging students to learn science in the only way that it can be effectively made a part of their thinking: to independently question it, probe it, try it out, experiment with it and experience it.
Each major completes a two-course core sequence in introductory biology, followed by a semester of genetics. Upper-division courses in the biology program are designed so that students can continue to develop both breadth and depth of understanding of biology, expanding on the logical framework that core courses provide; breadth of knowledge and conceptual understanding are required for investigating biological questions and the application of knowledge in practical ways. The breadth of study allows students to integrate their knowledge from various sub-disciplines and understand different methodological approaches. At the same time, the curriculum provides room for students to pursue their special interests in depth. Therefore, biology graduates are prepared for a wide range of opportunities after graduation.
The upper-division courses are grouped by major conceptual ideas as such ideas are applied at the different levels of biological organization (cell, organism, population)—in sequence of scale from small to large. Important questions in biology span the range of these levels of organization. Emphasis is on understanding biological relationships within and between plants and animals.
The major requirements also stress the balance of importance of both plant and animal life, including use of selected plants and animals as model organisms. The curriculum offers opportunity for students to discover similarities and differences of structure, function, and relationships within and between plants and animals.
Faculty members are also committed to helping students investigate career opportunities and pursue careers that most clearly match their interests and abilities. Students are invited to use departmental facilities for independent study and are encouraged to participate in ongoing faculty research.
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science Degree
For either the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, the student must take our introductory core sequence (BIOL 225 and 226) and a semester of genetics (BIOL 330). Completion of the two-course introductory core with grades of C- or higher is required before upper-division biology courses can be taken. Furthermore, BIOL 330 must be completed within five semesters of starting the introductory core series. To ensure breadth of study in biology, students must complete at least one upper-division course in each of the three categories below.
Each of the courses taken for the biology major including the required supporting courses must be completed with a grade of C- or higher and the cumulative GPA must be at least 2.00. Courses not designed for biology majors (BIOL 111, 116, 201, 205, 206) cannot be used to satisfy major requirements. Independent study (BIOL 491) and internship (BIOL 495) may be used for no more than a total of four of the upper-division biology hours required for the B.S. degree, and for no more than a total of two of the upper-division biology hours required for the B.A. degree.
Students who plan to apply biology credits earned at other institutions toward a PLU degree with a biology major should be aware that at least 14 hours in biology, numbered 300 or higher and including BIOL 499, must be earned in residence at PLU. Each student must consult with a biology advisor to discuss selection of electives appropriate for educational and career goals. Basic requirements under each plan for the major are listed below.
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Major in Biology
34 semester hours in biology, plus 8 semester hours in required supporting courses
- BIOL 225, 226, 330, and 499
- Plus: 20 additional upper-division biology hours that satisfy the following requirements:
- Cellular and Molecular Biology (one course): BIOL 341, 342, 442, 443, 444, 445, 448, or 449
- Organism Structure and Function (one course): BIOL 352, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, or 453
- Ecology and Evolution (one course): BIOL 362, 367, 368, 369, 461, or 462
- Plus: 20 additional upper-division biology hours that satisfy the following requirements:
- NSCI 350 may count as an upper-division biology course that does not satisfy any of the distribution requirements listed above. A student cannot use both NSCI 350 and BIOL 491 or BIOL 495 to satisfy their total number of upper-division biology courses.
- Required supporting courses: CHEM 115 and MATH 140
- Recommended supporting courses: PHYS 125 (with 135 Lab) and PHYS 126 (with 136 Lab)
Bachelor of Science Degree
Major in Biology
42 semester hours in biology, plus 27 semester hours in required supporting courses
- BIOL 225, 226, 330, and 499
- Plus: 28 additional upper-division biology hours that satisfy the following requirements:
- Cellular and Molecular Biology (one course): BIOL 341, 342, 442, 443, 444, 445, 448, or 449
- Organism Structure and Function (one course): BIOL 352, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, or 453
- Ecology and Evolution (one course): BIOL 362, 367, 368, 369, 461, or 462
- Plus: 28 additional upper-division biology hours that satisfy the following requirements:
- NSCI 350 may count as an upper-division biology course that does not satisfy any of the distribution requirements listed above. A student cannot use both NSCI 350 and BIOL 491 or BIOL 495 to satisfy their total number of upper-division biology courses.
- For the B.S. degree only, CHEM 403 may count as an upper-division biology course with approval of the department chair. The use of CHEM 403 for the B.S. degree cannot be used to satisfy any of the distribution requirements listed above.
- Required supporting courses:
- CHEM 115 and 116, 331 (with 333 Lab)
- MATH 151 or MATH 145
- PHYS 125 (with 135 Lab) or PHYS 153 (with 163 Lab)
- PHYS 126 (with 136 Lab) or PHYS 154 (with 164 Lab)
Biology Secondary Education
Students planning to be certified to teach biology in high school should plan to complete a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Upper-division biology course selection should be made in consultation with a biology advisor. See the Department of Education section of the catalog for biology courses required for certification.
Minor
20 semester hours including:
- BIOL 225, 226
- 12 semester hours elective coursework in biology
(minimum 4 semester hours upper division required)*
*No more than one 100-level course can be applied to the minor; this course must be taken prior to enrolling in BIOL 225. At least 8 semester hours for the minor must be earned in courses taken at PLU. For those students applying only 8 semester hours of PLU biology credit toward the minor, those hours cannot include independent study (BIOL 491) or internship (BIOL 495).
Course Offerings by Semester/Term
Click here for the Department of Biology two-year course cycle.
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- Fall Semester: 201, 205, 225, 226, 330, 354, 358, 367, 368, 387, 443, 445, 453, 461, 491, 495, 499
- January Term: 356, 362, 369 (alternate years), 387, 488, 491, 495
- Spring Semester: 111 (alternate years), 116 (alternate years), 206, 225, 226, 330, 341, 342, 352, 355 (alternate years), 362 (alternate years), 369 (alternate years), 442 (alternate years), 444, 449, 462, 491, 495, 499
Biology (BIOL) - Undergraduate Courses
BIOL 111 : Biology and the Modern World - NS, SM
This course is intended to introduce students to the principles and concepts that pertain to all living organisms, with special emphasis on those topics typically encountered in everyday life, including human physiology and disease, environmental issues, and the fundamentals of genetics. Lecture and laboratory. Not intended for biology majors. (4)
BIOL 116 : Introductory Ecology - NS, SM
A study of the interrelationships between organisms and their environment examining concepts in ecology that lead to understanding the nature and structure of ecosystems and how humans impact ecosystems. Includes laboratory. Not intended for biology majors. (4)
BIOL 190 : FYEP190: Inquiry Seminar
A four-credit seminar to introduce students to the methods and topics of study within a particular academic discipline or field. Students practice the academic skills that are at the center of the General Education Program. (4)
BIOL 201 : Introductory Microbiology - NS, SM
The structure, metabolism, growth and genetics of microorganisms, especially bacteria and viruses, with emphasis on their roles in human disease. Laboratory focuses on cultivation, identification, and control of growth of bacteria. Prerequisite: CHEM 105. Not intended for biology majors. (4)
BIOL 205 : Human Anatomy and Physiology I - NS, SM
The first half of a two-course sequence. Topics include matter, cells, tissues, and the anatomy and physiology of four systems: skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine. Laboratory includes cat dissection and experiments in muscle physiology and reflexes. Not intended for biology majors. Prerequisite: PLU Math placement in MATH 140 or higher; or completion of MATH 115 with a C or higher. (4)
BIOL 206 : Human Anatomy and Physiology II - NS, SM
The second half of a two-course sequence. Topics include metabolism, temperature regulation, development, inheritance, and the anatomy and physiology of five systems: circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and reproductive. Laboratory includes cat dissection, physiology experiments, and study of developing organisms. Not intended for biology majors. Prerequisite: BIOL 205 with a C- or better. (4)
BIOL 225 : Molecules, Cells, and Organisms - NS, SM
An introduction to the concepts and study of the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels of biological organization. Cell structure and function, energy transformation, the central dogma of molecular biology, plant and animal anatomy and physiology, response to environmental changes, plant and animal reproduction, and development. Includes laboratory. Prerequisite: Math placement in MATH 140 or higher; or completion of MATH 115 with a C or higher. One year of high school chemistry is recommended. (4)
BIOL 226 : Genes, Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology - NS, SM
An introduction to the concepts and study of Mendelian and population genetics, evolution, ecology, and a systematic survey of life on earth. Includes laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 225 with a C- or better. (4)
BIOL 287 : Special Topics in Biology
To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 288 : Special Topics in Biology
To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 289 : Special Topics in Biology
To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 291 : Directed Study
To provide individual undergraduate students with introductory study not available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as DS: followed by the specific title designated by the student. (1 to 4)
BIOL 305 : Cadaver Prosection
This course is a practicum in which students dissect a human cadaver and prepare anatomical specimens for use in Pacific Lutheran University Human Anatomy and Physiology classes. Students will learn proper dissection techniques and pertinent details of the human form needed to complete quality dissection work. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor; and students must have successfully completed BIOL 205/206 or BIOL 352. Prospective students must apply for placement in the course during the semester preceding enrollment. (1)
BIOL 330 : Genetics
Basic concepts considering the molecular basis of gene expression, recombination, genetic variability, as well as cytogenetics and Mendelian and transmission genetics. Laboratory includes molecular biology techniques and problem solving exercises. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 341 : Developmental Biology
The embryonic and larval development of multicellular organisms (primarily animals). Examples are chosen from popular contemporary model systems, and the emphasis is on cellular, and molecular aspects of development. The laboratory includes descriptive and quantitative experiments, as well as student-planned projects. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 342 : Microbiology
The structure, physiology, genetics, and metabolism of microorganisms with emphasis on their diversity and ecology. The laboratory emphasizes design, implementation, and evaluation of both descriptive and quantitative experiments as well as isolation of organisms from natural sources. Prerequisites: BIOL 226; CHEM 331 with CHEM 333 recommended. (4)
BIOL 352 : Comparative Anatomy
An evolutionary approach to the study of structural and functional relationships in the vertebrate body. Includes examination and dissection of major organ systems with analysis of similarities and differences across groups to assess the significance of adaptations and explore the historical and present diversity of vertebrate morphology. Some observation of and comparison with human cadavers. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 354 : Natural History of Vertebrates
A systematic survey of vertebrate diversity including fishes, amphibians, non-avian reptiles, and mammals. Coverage emphasizes phylogenetic relationships, evolutionary trends, natural history, and anatomy. Field trips and laboratory focus on observation and identification of local species. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 355 : Ornithology
The study of birds inclusive of their anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and distribution. Special emphasis on those attributes of birds that are unique among the vertebrates. Laboratory emphasis on field identification, taxonomy, and anatomy/topology. Prerequisite: BIOL 226 or consent of instructor. (4)
BIOL 356 : Economic and Cultural Botany
Botany of plants used by humans in a global context; traditional and contemporary uses of plants. General plant morphology and anatomy, overview of taxonomy of plants useful to humans, evolution of plant secondary metabolites, medical botany (medicines, poisons, psychoactive plants), genetic engineering, bio-prospecting, and socio-economic issues surrounding botanical commodities. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 357 : Histology
The tissue level of biological organization, including animal and plant tissues. Tissue contributions to organ structure and function. Laboratory includes examination of prepared microscope slides as well as tissue processing and preparation of permanent microscope slides of sectioned and stained animal and plant tissues. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 358 : Plant Physiology
A study of how plants obtain and utilize nutrients, react to environmental factors, and adapt to stress. Focuses on mechanisms at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. Explores connections to agriculture and ecology. Relies significantly on primary literature. Includes laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 359 : Biology of Reproduction
This course will explore human reproduction focusing on anatomical and physiological aspects but also examining its influence on behavior and society. Although the main attention will be focused on humans, examples will be drawn from other vertebrate species ranging from the effects of testosterone on songbird vocalizations to the estrous cycle in rats to seasonal reproduction in sheep in order to provide comparative perspectives. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 362 : Animal Behavior
A survey of the field of animal behavior with an emphasis on integrating behavioral analyses into an explicitly evolutionary framework. An understanding of both the proximate and ultimate mechanisms underlying behavior is emphasized. Laboratory/discussion in addition to lecture. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 367 : Conservation Biology and Management
Based upon the principles of population ecology and ecological genetics, an integrated study of the impacts of people on nature—specifically the diversity of plants and animals. Includes practical applications, techniques, and case studies in forest, fish, wildlife, and land management. Laboratories and field trips concern resource management and use. Course may not be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: BIOL 226 or consent of instructor. (4)
BIOL 368 : Ecology
Organisms in relation to their environment, including organismal adaptations, population growth and interactions, and ecosystem structure and function. Laboratory/discussion in addition to lecture. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 369 : Marine Biology
The ocean as environment for plant and animal life; an introduction to structure, dynamics, and history of marine ecosystems. Lab, field trips, and term project in addition to lecture. Prerequisite: BIOL 226. (4)
BIOL 387 : Special Topics in Biology
Selected topics as announced by the department. May be repeated for credit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 388 : Special Topics in Biology
To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 389 : Special Topics in Biology
To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 442 : Cell Biology
Focuses on cellular organization and function, enzyme kinetics, membrane structure and function, energetics, signaling, and cell cycle. Laboratory employs modern techniques including animal cell culture, cell fractionation, molecular, genetic, and biochemical assays, and microscopy (light, phase contrast, fluorescence). Prerequisite: BIOL 330 and CHEM 331 with 333, or consent of instructor. (4)
BIOL 443 : Plant Development and Genetic Engineering
A study of how plant structures form and change through the life cycle and how genetic engineering is used to alter plant biology for research and commercial applications. Specific GMOs considered as case studies. Focus on molecular biology and application of concepts. Prerequisite: BIOL 330. Recommended: BIOL 358, 442, or 445. (4)
BIOL 444 : Neurobiology
Neurobiology is the study of the nervous system and its relationship to behavior and disease. This course examines the structure and function of neurons and glia, neural development, gross organization of the brain, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions such as learning, memory, and speech. Prerequisite: BIOL 330 or consent of instructor. (4)
BIOL 445 : Molecular Biology
An introduction to molecular biology, emphasizing the central role of DNA: structure of DNA and RNA, structure and expression of genes, genome organization and rearrangement, methodology, and applications of recombinant DNA technology. Laboratory features basic recombinant DNA techniques. Prerequisite: BIOL 330. (4)
BIOL 448 : Immunology
Explores the physical, cellular, and molecular components of innate and adaptive immune responses. Emphasizes an integrated approach to exploring immunological concepts within the context of human health and disease. Prerequisites: BIOL 330 and one of the following courses BIOL 341, 342, 352, 442, 445, or 453. (4)
BIOL 449 : Virology
The diversity that exists among viruses is staggering, and there is no type of life on Earth that is not subject to infection by viruses. This course will explore viral origins, replication, transmission, pathogenesis, oncogenesis, and host immunity. Emerging viruses, pandemics, and vaccines will also be discussed. Students will gain hands-on experience in a wide range of techniques and will work with both bacteriophages and animal viruses. Prerequisite: BIOL 330. (4)
BIOL 453 : Mammalian Physiology
An investigation of the principles of physiological regulation. Part I: fundamental cellular, neural, and hormonal mechanisms of homeostatic control; Part II: interactions in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, and neuromuscular organ systems. Laboratory allows direct observation of physiological regulation in living animals. Prerequisites: BIOL 330, CHEM 115; BIOL 352 recommended. (4)
BIOL 461 : Evolution
An introduction to evolutionary theory and its broad explanatory power in biology. Coverage includes: a brief history of evolutionary thought, population genetics and the mechanisms of evolutionary change, phylogenetics, speciation, macroevolutionary processes, origins of life on earth, and evo-devo. Laboratory includes simulations and empirical examples of concepts covered in lecture. Prerequisite: BIOL 330. (4)
BIOL 462 : Plant Diversity and Distribution
A systematic introduction to plant diversity. Interaction between plants, theories of vegetational distribution. Emphasis on higher plant taxonomy. Includes laboratory and field trips. Prerequisite: BIOL 330. (4)
BIOL 487 : Special Topics in Biology
To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 488 : Special Topics in Biology
To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 489 : Special Topics in Biology
To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)
BIOL 491 : Independent Studies
Investigations or research in areas of special interest not covered by regular courses. Open to qualified junior and senior majors. Prerequisite: Written proposal for the project approved by a faculty sponsor and the department chair. (1 to 4)
BIOL 495 : Internship in Biology
An approved off-campus work activity in the field of biology with a private or public sector agency, organization, or company. Students will be expected to adhere to and document the objectives of a learning plan developed with and approved by a faculty sponsor. Credit will be determined by hours spent in the working environment and the depth of the project associated with the course of study. Prerequisites: BIOL 226 and consent of department chair. (1 to 4)
BIOL 499 : Capstone: Senior Seminar - SR
Capstone is a topical course in which students will work in small groups with a faculty mentor to explore the primary literature in a topic within that faculty member's area of expertise. Students will develop their skills interpreting, summarizing, and critically analyzing the primary literature. They will produce written and oral products as a result of the semester's work. Meets the senior seminar requirement. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor; and students must have successfully completed, with a C- or better, at least two upper-division classes in addition to BIOL 330 prior to enrolling in Capstone. Student performance in courses in the Capstone distribution area influences student placement into Capstone sections. (2)