Biology

Study of the basic principles and unifying concepts of biology. Emphasis is placed on how biology increasingly plays a role in our everyday lives. Topics include organization of living matter, metabolism, reproduction, genetics, ecology and evolution. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components. Cannot be counted toward biology major.

Study of current topics in biology appropriate for all students. Elective credit. May be taken more than once for credit with permission of instructor.

Principles of Fermentation Sciences will cover the fundamental science of the fermentation processes, it's history and culture and application to basic food science, microbiology, chemistry, biology and nutrition. Bio105 will introduce concepts relating to the utilization of grapes, grains and hops utilized by the fermentation industry. Students will be exposed to the basic methods and principles behind the fermentation process including production of bread, vegetables, beer, wine and  bio-fuels. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components. Students must be 21 years of age or older by the first day of class. 

Study of the integrated principles of biology with emphasis on molecular and cellular aspects of organisms, genetics, and organismal homeostatic mechanisms. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

Study of the integrated principles of biology with emphasis on the diversity of organisms in the world, their evolution, and their interactions with each other and the environment. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

Study in a specific area of biology not covered by regularly listed courses. Course content and structure will vary according to the interests of the instructor. Lecture, laboratory, and/or fieldwork may be included.

A detailed introduction to the terminology used in health professions.

Introduction to the study of the selection, reproduction, nutrition, and marketing of beef and dairy
cattle, swine, sheep, horses, and poultry. Scientific animal production and the importance of livestock
and meat industries.

This is a course designed to introduce the study of animal nutrition in all aspects and is designed for biology majors and Animal science minors. Topics include the nutrition of companion animals, livestock, and exotic species. Topics will also include anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the gastrointestinal system, nutrient procurement and use, feed additives, growth stimulants, metabolic diseases, and diet therapy.

General Botany is an introduction to the structure and life processes of plants and plant-like organisms (cyanobacteria, algae, fungi, etc.). Subjects include genetics, development, anatomy, physiology, evolution, and distribution. The course includes lecture and laboratory components.

General Zoology is an introduction to the structure and life processes of animals and animal-like organisms (protists, slime molds, etc.). Subjects include genetics, development, anatomy, physiology, evolution, and distribution. The course includes lecture and laboratory components.

This course emphasizes the biology of medically important microorganisms. Topics include the history of microbiology, cell structure and function, epidemiology, pathogenicity, and surveys of bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens. The course includes both lecture and laboratory components. 

A detailed introduction to subcellular and cellular structure and physiology, including membrane structure and function, bioenergetics, transport mechanisms, and intercellular communication. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

An examination of the principles of inheritance and the structure, function, and regulation of genetic material in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

The course is the first of a two-part sequence in human anatomy and physiology. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

The second of a two-part sequence dealing with the structure and function of the human body. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

Study in a specific area of biology not covered by regularly listed courses. Course content and structure will vary according to the interests of the instructor. Lecture, laboratory, and/or field work may be included. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.

An introduction to research including literature searches, experimental methods, and proper recording and reporting of experimental results. May be repeated for credit.

Exploration of the analysis of biological data including experimental design, data collection, describing and displaying data, inferential statistics, and interpretation of results. Students will gain proficiency in the use of statistical computing software. Special emphasis is placed on statistical methods utilized in genetics, epidemiology, human health, ecology, and agriculture. 

This course is designed to prepare students majoring in biology for teacher licensure in life science at the secondary (7-12) level.

This course is designed to review the anatomy of domestic farm animals and common pets. This course is also designed to discuss the physiology of the various systems in common to all species and the differences in form and function where they exist.

This upper-division course is designed to provide undergraduate students with fundamental knowledge of the immune system at the molecular and cellular levels. In particular, it will introduce you to the molecules and cells that make up the human immune system and to the processes that lead to the recognition and elimination of pathogens.

Basic principles of Mendelian, population, and quantitative genetics as applied to the improvement of domestic animals. Selection, inbreeding, and crossbreeding strategies for genetic improvement of livestock.

Parasites, “ones who eat at the table of another”, are shaping the biological world as they belong to all groups of organisms and infect plants and animals. This course is an introduction to the biology of parasitic organisms that can affect humans and animals (pets mainly), including life cycles, infection pathways, impacts on hosts, and diagnostics. Topics are explored via lectures, laboratory exercises, literature reviews, and discussion groups. This course is for people who are genuinely curious about parasites, have an interest in health-related fields (Veterinarian, Medical, Nurse...), or should know about parasites because of the following reasons: have pets, like to eat raw meat, live in places where they are exposed to parasites on a regular basis (yes Arkansas is one of those places).

This class will teach students how to study, create, troubleshoot, and implement enrichment for animals. This course combines lectures and hands-on lab activities, providing an ideal learning experience for students interested in animals or animal-related professions.

An introduction to a wide array of topics on healthcare and healthcare systems in preparation for a practicum as a health coach. Topics include but are not limited to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia, organization of healthcare systems, ethical considerations, and strategies for promoting healthy lifestyles. The course is discussion-based and requires active student engagement.

The second in a series of health coaching classes. Students who successfully complete BIO 310 will enter the practicum class directly. Students will be assigned a patient in the Batesville area and assist them in selected aspects of healthcare.

Upper-level students who plan to attend graduate school, particularly those who intend to teach at the college level, may take this course to obtain teaching experience. Students will teach alongside a faculty member in a laboratory course they have successfully completed at the 100 or 200 level. Students will attend each laboratory section, assist in teaching the lab, give and receive feedback on lectures, and write a teaching philosophy.

This course will focus on a singular human disease or condition (selected by the instructor) with particular emphasis on students learning how to leverage the primary scientific literature to gain a deeper understanding of the topic, and the experimental approaches used to synthesize this deeper understanding.  Students will all present a paper of their choosing in a mini journal-club format.

Ecology is an introduction to the relationships between biota and their environment with emphasis on limiting factors, competition, coevolution, energy flow, and population dynamics. The course includes lecture and laboratory components, and one Saturday field trip will be required.

An introduction to the study of caves. Students will learn about the formation, ecology, evolution, and inhabitants of caves in the Ozarks and elsewhere. The course includes lecture and lab components.

Microbiology examines the structure, biochemistry, genetics, and physiology of microorganisms with an emphasis on bacteria. The course includes lecture and laboratory components.

In-depth study of the structure and regulation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genes with an emphasis on recombinant DNA techniques and applications. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

Study of the chemical basis of life. The major biomolecules–proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids–will be discussed with emphasis on their reactions and roles in living cells. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

Comparative Physiology provides an in-depth study of the physiological systems that maintain homeostasis in animals with emphasis on the design and function of these systems in different animals in response to the environmental pressures they face. The course consists of lecture and laboratory components.

Study of the major processes which lead to the form and function of multicellular organisms. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

Study of the microscopic structure and function of animal tissues and organs. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

This course provides an in-depth study of patterns and processes of evolutionary change, and how biological diversity is originated and maintained. The course emphasizes how evolutionary principles are the foundation of modern biology and relevant to other disciplines. Topics include mechanisms of evolutionary change, fossil record, microevolution, macroevolution, population genetics, speciation, and human evolution. The course includes lecture and laboratory components.

Study in a specific area of biology not covered by regularly listed courses. Course content and structure will vary according to the interests of the instructor. Lecture, laboratory, and field work may be included.

This course addresses the study of how the body (on the cellular, tissue, and organ system levels) responds in function and structure to 1) acute exercise stress, and 2) chronic physical activity. Aspects of chemistry, biology, and physics are integrated to explain biological events and their sites of occurrence in the human body as they affect exercise and training. Includes energy systems, neuromuscular concepts as applied to sports, and functions of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. (Same as EXS 375)

Study of varying topics in biology. Includes a two-week Nichols trip. Prerequisites will vary.

Advanced study in a specific area of biology. Course content and structure will vary according to the interests of the instructor. Lecture, laboratory, and field work may be included.

In-depth study of selected biochemical reactions and pathways of major biological and physiological significance, including synthesis and breakdown of important biomolecules, cell signaling pathways, and second messengers. The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components.

Independent study in a specific area of biology under the direction of the faculty.

Independent research in approved areas of biology. Under direction of faculty, the student will define, design and complete an original research project and/or take part in a larger, ongoing research program. This course may be repeated for credit.

This course provides graduating seniors the opportunity to assess their knowledge of biology, and to assess the effectiveness of the biology program. Instead of regular class meetings, students will take a comprehensive exam, which will assess five major areas: cell biology, molecular biology & genetics, organismal biology, ecology & evolution, and analytical reasoning. The senior assessment also allows students to provide feedback concerning their individual learning experiences. Senior Evaluation must be taken before spring break of a student's graduating year. The course is graded pass/fail - satisfactory completion of the exam, regardless of score, is required for a passing grade.