Biology (BIOLOGY)

For up-to-date information on when online courses from the Distance Learning Campus are typically offered, see https://www.uwplatt.edu/department/professional-program-support/course-offerings.

BIOLOGY 1020 BioQuest: Foundations for College Success 1 Credit

This course provides an opportunity for new students to learn about the biology program, staff, and resources available at UW-Platteville. Designed to help first-year biology students make a successful transition to college life, students will be given opportunities to develop skills to excel in and beyond college. Topics include: time management, learning styles, study and test-taking skills, responsibility and professionalism, the importance of biology-related experiences and jobs before graduation, use of electronic academic tools, curriculum requirements and registration issues, balance in life, and effective communication.
Components: Class
GE: Entry Level requirement
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: Biology or related major
Typically Offered: Fall

BIOLOGY 1150 Concepts of Biology 5 Credits

The fundamental features of living organisms; cell and tissue structure, growth, basic physiological processes, reproduction and inheritance, classification, ecology, and evolution. Not required nor counted toward a major or a minor in biology.
Components: Laboratory, Class
GE: Natural Science
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 1230 Global Public Health 3 Credits

Study of the history, values, and functions of global human health.
Components: Class
GE: Global Studies
Typically Offered: Spring-EVEN

BIOLOGY 1350 General Botany 5 Credits

Structures and functions of principal groups of plants and plant like organisms; their ecological and phylogenetic relationships.
Components: Discussion, Laboratory, Class
GE: Natural Science
Typically Offered: Spring

BIOLOGY 1650 The Unity of Life 5 Credits

This course is a dynamic exploration of Biology from the biochemical level through the individual organism. In this exploration students will investigate the interactions of the internal workings of the cell, the cells themselves, tissues and organ systems in the physiology of organisms from single celled bacteria through multi-cellular plants and animals.
Components: Discussion, Laboratory, Class
GE: Natural Science
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: Biology or related major and MATH 15 with a grade of "C" or better or mathematics proficiency level of 15 or above and English 1040 with a grade of "C" or better or an English placement level of English 1130
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 1750 The Diversity of Life 5 Credits

In this course the ecological and evolutionary connections between all living organisms will e explored and the following questions will be addressed: 1) Why are there so many species and how did there get to be so many? 2) How does fitness unify and diversify life? 3) How do organisms reproduce? and 4) What is the biological future of life? Organismal through ecosystem level processes will be explored.
Components: Discussion, Laboratory, Class
GE: Natural Science
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: Biology or related major and MATH 15 with a grade of "C" or better or mathematics proficiency level of 15 or above and English 1040 with a grade of "C" or better or an English placement level of English 1130
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 1910 Environmental Science 4 Credits

A contemporary study of the natural world through the human perspective. Emphasis on humans as a modifying force in the biophysical environment, including selected topics in ecological principles, pollution, population biology, and environmental management. This course meets the statutory requirement for Conservation of Natural Resources required for State certification for teachers of science and social sciences. Lecture, lab, and may include demonstrations, discussions, and field trips. A student may not earn credit for both BIOLOGY 1900 and BIOLOGY 1910.
Components: Laboratory, Class
GE: Natural Science
Typically Offered: Spring

BIOLOGY 2040 Cell Biology 4 Credits

Organization of cells and their components; analysis of light and electron microscopy of cytoplasmic and nuclear components of the cell and their relation to heredity, physiology, reproduction and development.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and one semester of chemistry
Typically Offered: Fall

BIOLOGY 2130 Plants and Society 3 Credits

A global exploration of plants and their uses by humans from historical, cultural, economic, and botanical perspectives.
Components: Class, Laboratory
GE: Global Studies
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1150 or BIOLOGY 1350 or BIOLOGY 1650 or BIOLOGY 1750
Typically Offered: Occasional

BIOLOGY 2140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I 5 Credits

Designed as the first of a two-semester sequence, this sequence explores structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of the human body from a systematic approach. In addition to introductory materials, this semester includes study of the integumentary system, nervous system including special senses, endocrine system and skeletal system. Throughout the semester, systems will be analyzed at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ and organ system levels. This course is designed for science majors.
Components: Class, Laboratory
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1150 or BIOLOGY 1650 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall

BIOLOGY 2240 Human Anatomy and Physiology II 5 Credits

Designed as the 2nd of a two-semester sequence, this course continues the exploration of the structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of the human body from a systematic approach. This semester includes the study of the muscular system, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, reproductive system and early development. Throughout the semester systems will be analyzed at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ and organ system levels. This course is designed for science majors.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 2140 (grade of "C-" or better required)
Typically Offered: Spring

BIOLOGY 2340 Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology 4 Credits

As a one semester offering, this course is designed to cover the essentials of human anatomy and physiology. It will serve as a basic introduction to the study of the complex interdependence of structure and function from a systematic approach. All primary body systems will be addressed.
Components: Laboratory, Class
GE: Natural Science
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 2420 Fundamentals of Biological Investigations 3 Credits

This course illustrates the process of science from a biological perspective. Students will learn to design, execute, analyze, and present biological research. Through a combination of readings, discussions, projects, lab exercises, and field work students will experience the challenges and rewards of acquiring biological information.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and ENGLISH 1230
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 2450 Fungi, Algae and Bryophytes 4 Credits

This course covers the major groups of living algae, fungi, fungal-like protists, and bryophytes. Although classic concepts of taxonomy, evolution, morphology, and ecological and economic importances will be included in this diversity survey course, the material will be presented from a community ecology approach: which organisms would be located in a particular environment and why? Lectures will be standard lecture as well as discussion format. Labs will include a variety of essential techniques for studying these diverse organisms, such as microscopy, use of identification keys, field sampling, collection/processing, and culturing.
Components: Class, Laboratory
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1350 or (BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750)
Typically Offered: Spring-EVEN

BIOLOGY 2640 Invertebrate Zoology 5 Credits

Systematic survey of the invertebrates. Both representative and diverse forms will be studied within each group. Includes animal micro-technique procedures.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1750 and C: BIOLOGY 1650 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring-ODD

BIOLOGY 2730 Animal Behavior 3 Credits

A general introduction to the field of animal behavior. Topics include evolution and natural selection, social behavior, communication, reproduction, orientation and navigation, and hormonal mechanisms of behavior. Lecture, lab, and may also include demonstrations, discussions, and field trips.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1150 or BIOLOGY 1750
Typically Offered: Occasional

BIOLOGY 2920 Independent Research 1-3 Credits

Individual specialized study working with a faculty advisor. For freshmen, sophomores, and those students who have yet to complete BIOLOGY 2420.
Components: Research
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 2980 Special Topics in Biology 1-3 Credits

Designed to cover topics in biology not ordinarily covered in other classes.
Components: Class
Typically Offered: Occasional

BIOLOGY 3030 Ornithology 4 Credits

Anatomy, physiology, life histories, and ecology of birds. Laboratory study and field trips emphasize identification of local species.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring

BIOLOGY 3040 Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates 5 Credits

Comparative studies of organs and systems of Vertebrata; includes laboratory dissections of shark, necturus, and cat.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and (BIOLOGY 2240 or BIOLOGY 2340 or ANSCI 3100) or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall-EVEN

BIOLOGY 3120 Animal Tissue Culture 2 Credits

Preparation of equipment and environment. Growth and maintenance. Media considerations. Various types of culture methods. Applications.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring-EVEN

BIOLOGY 3130 Amphibians and Reptiles of Wisconsin 3 Credits

Natural history of amphibians and reptiles native to Wisconsin. This experiential learning course uses class time to observe species in their natural habitats and learn about how both the species and their habitats are managed and conserved.
Components: Field Studies
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: Junior standing or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Summer

BIOLOGY 3230 Mammalogy 4 Credits

A review of the mammalian fauna focusing on the major orders and families. Key morphological features, life history, and zoogeographic patterns will be reviewed for major groups. Discussion of current conservation and management issues. Lab includes identification of native Wisconsin mammals and an introduction to standard field and lab techniques for the study of mammals.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and BIOLOGY 2420 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall

BIOLOGY 3240 Microbiology 5 Credits

Classification, morphology, physiology, and genetics of microbes; relation of bacteria to viruses; survey of bacteria found in the environment and their control; principles of immunity and diseases.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: (BIOLOGY 1650 or CHEMSTRY 3130 or GEOLOGY 1140 or GEOLOGY 3130 or SCSCI 2230) and (CHEMSTRY 1050 or CHEMSTRY 1140 or CHEMSTRY 1240 or CHEMISTRY 1450) or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 3330 Genetics 3 Credits

This course explores what genes are, how they are expressed, and how they are passed on from generation to generation. In addition, applications of genetics in relation to mutation, disease, gene therapy, criminalistics and genetic engineering are also explored.
Components: Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 3450 Ecology and Evolution 3 Credits

Ecology and evolution will be considered from the perspectives of individual organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems in an effort to illustrate the relationships between these concepts and the importance of how they both shape our world. Students will be introduced to the history, major principles, theories, dynamics, and approaches of ecology and evolution. (Fall, Spring)
Components: Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 3460 Ecological Methods and Research 3 Credits

This class supplements BIOLOGY 3450 Ecology and Evolution and further explores the major principles, techniques, and approaches in ecology. This course will explore ecology in the field and laboratory with the goal of enabling students to plan, execute, and scrutinize ecological research and appreciate how science and research fit into ecology.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and BIOLOGY 2420; C: BIOLOGY 3450 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall-ODD

BIOLOGY 3470 Systematics and Evolutionary Analysis 3 Credits

This course explores the analytical techniques used by modern evolutionary biologists to investigate both quantitative and qualitative patterns in nature. Students practice these techniques in a laboratory that is primarily computer-based, but also includes several weeks of paleontological field work. Topics covered include: (1) the philosophy and algorithms of phylogenetic systematics; (2) microevolutionary processes, and; (3) concepts relevant to macroevolution including speciation, extinction, and the fossil record.
Components: Class, Laboratory
Prereqs/Coreqs: C: BIOLOGY 3330 and BIOLOGY 3450 or consent of instructor.
Typically Offered: Spring-EVEN

BIOLOGY 3530 Biotechnology 3 Credits

Survey of careers and topics within Biotechnology. Class examines recombinant DNA technology, regenerative medicine, genetically modified organisms and bioremediation among others. Laboratory support class topics with relevant experimentation. Significant interaction with industry experts.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650
Typically Offered: Fall

BIOLOGY 3550 Morphology and Evolution of Vascular Plants 4 Credits

This broad course covers the structure or form (morphology) of the adult plant, its tissues, development and reproductive details, as well as the ecology, evolutionary history, and taxonomy of the group in which it is classified. Focus will be given to all phyla of extant vascular plants and major groups of extinct vascular plants, presenting the organisms from an evolutionary perspective.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1350 or (BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750)
Typically Offered: Spring-ODD

BIOLOGY 3620 Immunology 2 Credits

The basic concepts of immunology. The normal and abnormal immune response.
Components: Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and one college level chemistry course or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall-ODD

BIOLOGY 3630 Epidemiology: Host, Agent, and Environment 3 Credits

The study of the patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in human and animal populations.
Components: Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: Junior standing or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring-EVEN

BIOLOGY 3650 Plant Communities of Wisconsin 4 Credits

This course provides an introduction to the major plant communities of Wisconsin and neighboring states. It emphasizes the identification, biogeographic distribution, interrelationships, conservation and management of the major regional plant communities as well as their key plant species. Two extended weekend field trips are required.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and 1750 or BIOLOGY 1350 or consent of instructor; recommended: BIOLOGY 3450
Typically Offered: Fall-EVEN

BIOLOGY 3710 Exotic Animal Care and Outreach I 1 Credit

The UW-Platteville Animal House provides students with an opportunity to care for exotic invertebrate and vertebrate animals and share the biology and natural history of these animals at outreach events throughout the region. Students will learn and practice proper care for all animals in our collection, perform enrichment activities with a focal species, and participate in outreach activities throughout the semester. Time spent on the course includes a one-hour weekly meeting, animal care duties, and planning/participating in outreach events.
Components: Laboratory
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 3720 Exotic Animal Care and Outreach II 2 Credits

The UW-Platteville Animal House provides students with an opportunity to care for exotic invertebrate and vertebrate animals and share the biology and natural history of these animals at outreach events throughout the region. This course is intended for students that have taken at least one semester of BIOL 3710. Students are assigned leadership positions based on their interests and past experience. In addition to the responsibilities shared by all students associated with the Animal House, leaders are required to oversee a critical aspect of Animal House organization, such as monitoring for signs of improper animal care, scheduling times for animal care, maintaining social media presence, and arranging outreach events.
Components: Laboratory
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 3710 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring/Summer

BIOLOGY 3750 Freshwater Biology 4 Credits

Examination of the physical components and biological communities of lakes, streams, and wetlands and the relationships between them. Integration of fieldwork, scientific literature, and laboratory analyses.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and BIOLOGY 2420 and (CHEMSTRY 1050 or CHEMSTRY 1140 or CHEMISTRY 1240 or CHEMISTRY 1450) or consent of instructor, BIOLOGY 3450 recommended
Typically Offered: Fall-EVEN

BIOLOGY 3920 Personalized Learning Experience 1-3 Credits

Alternative learning experiences that fall in between independent research and the traditional classroom. This involves working with a faculty/staff advisor to determine objectives, expectations, and assessments.
Components: Independent Study
Typically Offered: All

BIOLOGY 4010 Workshop in Biology 1 Credit

Offers current research students the opportunity to learn about research-related skills in a collaborative environment. We discuss conducting research, ethics, presentation and communication skills, funding, and transitioning these skills into future careers, including job/graduate applications and resumes/CV. Students are required to share their research in an open0discussion format with their colleagues and are expected to work together to brainstorm and provide feedback to one another.
Components: Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: C: BIOLOGY 2920, BIOLOGY 4920 OR BIOLOGY 4970
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 4040 Molecular Biology 5 Credits

Detailed structural analysis of the biological molecules DNA, RNA, and proteins in relation to cellular processes. Exploration of experimental approaches that explain the molecular basis for all life activities.
Components: Discussion, Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and BIOLOGY 2420 and BIOLOGY 2040 and BIOLOGY 3330 and one semester of chemistry or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring

BIOLOGY 4130 Mammalian Endocrinology 3 Credits

The structural and functional classification of hormones, principles of hormone action, and the regulation of body functions by the endocrine system with emphasis on homeostasis.
Components: Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 or AGSCI 4110 and BIOLOGY 2420 CHEMSTRY 1240 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Occasional

BIOLOGY 4150 Forensic Botany 4 Credits

A survey of the structures of plants, fungi, and algae that can be used as botanical evidence in criminal investigation. Discussion of current literature, legal issues and future trends. Laboratory includes microtechnique, sample collection and preservation techniques, and testing methods.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1350 or (BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750); recommended: BIOLOGY 2450
Typically Offered: Fall-ODD

BIOLOGY 4240 Advanced Physiology 5 Credits

In depth study of physiologic processes from molecular to organismic level. Approached from a topical format, emphasizing recent advancements.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and BIOLOGY 2420 and (BIOLOGY 2140 or BIOLOGY 2340) and (CHEMSTRY 1050 or CHEMSTRY 1140 or CHEMSTRY 1240 or CHEMSTRY 1450) or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring-ODD

BIOLOGY 4340 Mammalian Histology 4 Credits

The organization of cells and their products to form tissues and organs; morphological and functional comparisons of tissue organization of representatives from the class Mammalia.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring-EVEN

BIOLOGY 4410 Topics in Biology 1-3 Credits

Presentations of biological topics.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and BIOLOGY 2420 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Occasional

BIOLOGY 4440 Human Gross Anatomy 4 Credits

There is nothing more fascinating than learning about the human body. Its structure, organization and physiology are of interest from a personal health and clinical standpoint. This course will provide the opportunity for advanced students to engage in an intense study of human gross anatomy. This course will have a significant lab component where students will apply concepts of anatomy and physiology to the prosected human cadaver.
Components: Laboratory
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and ((BIOLOGY 2140 and BIOLOGY 2240) or BIOLOGY 2340) or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Fall

BIOLOGY 4520 Biotechnology Seminar 2 Credits

Selected topics from among recent advances in biotechnology.
Components: Seminar
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and three courses from: BIOLOGY 1750, 2040, 2240, 2420, 2920, 3120, 3240, 3330, 3530, 3620, 4040, 4920, or CHEMSTRY 3130, 3270, 3540, 4000, 4630, or ANSCI 3070, 4980, or SCSCI 4240, 4390, or consent of instructor.
Typically Offered: Spring-ODD

BIOLOGY 4530 Plant Pathology 3 Credits

This course covers the major aspects of plant disease including abiotic and biotic causes, disease and symptom recognition, how disease occurs, and methods and techniques for prevention and control.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Cross Offering: SCSCI 4530
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: ENVHORT/SCSCI 1240 and BIOLOGY 1350 (or BIOLOGY 1650) and Junior Standing or Consent of Instructor
Typically Offered: Spring

BIOLOGY 4540 Introductory Human Pathology 4 Credits

This course is a team-oriented exploration of disease in the human body. This course is designed to be an intense, student-driven study of general and systemic pathology. After covering the primary disease processes (General Pathology) the students will collaborate in small groups to work through a variety of cases. The lab portion of the course will also include an introduction to clinical thinking and the diagnostic process. Students will learn basic patient history taking, and the interpretation of physical exam findings and diagnostic tests. This course involves utilizing these learned clinical skills on simulated patients. Integrated into this course is the creation of a decision-making tree related to a specific chief complaint (i.e. chest pain). Guest lectures by area clinicians are also part of the course. Students interested in a health care career (pre-medicine, pre-PA, pre-nursing, etc.) will benefit the most from this class.
Components: Laboratory, Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 2240 or BIOLOGY 2340 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Spring-ODD

BIOLOGY 4660 Biology Internship Experience 1-8 Credits

Intended for students to earn credit for formal structured internships with cooperating agencies, industries, organizations, or institutions. Requires a learning contract that is agreed upon by the student, faculty advisor and cooperating partner. The nature of the position, the number of credits, participant responsibilities and student assessment will be determined on a case-to-case basis.
Components: Field Studies
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: Approval by biology department chair and faculty advisor.
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring/Summer

BIOLOGY 4710 Selected Regional Habitats 1-3 Credits

Offers a first-hand introduction to the flora and fauna of selected unusual habitats in the form of an interim field trip. Up to three credits can be counted toward a biology major.
Components: Field Studies
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 or consent of instructor
Typically Offered: Occasional

BIOLOGY 4920 Advanced Independent Research in Biology 1-3 Credits

Individual specialized study working with a faculty advisor.
Components: Independent Study
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY 1650 and BIOLOGY 1750 and BIOLOGY 2420 and approval of the biology department chairperson and faculty advisor before registration.
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring/Summer

BIOLOGY 4970 Senior Thesis 1 Credit

This course provides students a unique, "capstone" opportunity to conduct research in collaboration with their peers and integrate knowledge from the different areas of biology. With assistance from a faculty coordinator, students from all areas of biology will work together to complete their individual independent research projects. Students will produce a manuscript-quality report and make a formal presentation on their research.
Components: Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: BIOLOGY major with senior standing and BIOLOGY 4920 P/C: BIOLOGY 4010
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring

BIOLOGY 4990 Capstone Course: From Atoms to Ecosystems - The Study of Life 1 Credit

This course is an exciting opportunity for students to integrate knowledge from the different areas of biology and associated disciplines to an interrelated whole, the study of life. In this endeavor, students will be applying their knowledge to current scientific and bioethical issues in biology. Students will also explore and reflect on what it means to be a biologist.
Components: Class
Prereqs/Coreqs: P: Biology major with senior standing
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring