PDF version - Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Biology
B322 Developmental Biology 3 credits
A study of mostly animal development from genetic and molecular perspectives. A brief account of
embryology is followed by gametogenesis, fertilization, embryogenesis, and organogenesis. All
topics are covered with emphasis upon differentiation. Class meets weekly for three hours of lecture/
discussion. Offered in alternate spring semesters. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121, and B310.
B323 Plant Communities and Taxonomy with Laboratory 3 credits
A course that combines collection and identification of local terrestrial and aquatic plants with a survey
and analysis of plant communities. Two lectures and one laboratory period or field trip per week.
Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: B110/111, B120/121 and B301.
B340 Limnology with Laboratory 4 credits
Lecture emphasis is placed on physical and chemical principles and their interpretation. Attention is
given to taxonomy, adaptations, distributions and abundance of organisms. Lab and field studies
emphasize techniques and aquatic environmental assessment. Three hours of lecture/discussions and
one three-hour lab/field study weekly. Offered spring semester. Prerequisite: B301.
B350 Heredity and Society 3 credits
This course is open to non-biology majors only. In-depth coverage and discussion of topics that show
how many of the contemporary social problems are related to the basic concepts of heredity. Some of
the relevant bio-social problems considered are human reproduction, carcinogens, mutagens, genetic
syndromes, chromosome abnormalities, aging, inbreeding, the genetic basis of behavior, genetic
engineering, genetic screening, genetic counseling, and bioethics. The course meets for three lectures
weekly. Offered spring semester.
B370 International Experience in Field Biology 3 credits
This course involves the study of the ecology of another country. A series of lectures on natural history,
ecological communities and environmental issues is followed by a guided study tour to allow students
to observe firsthand the landscapes, culture and wildlife of the region. This course is offered in the
summer only. A travel fee for the study tour is required. Prerequisite: B301.
B371 Ornithology with Laboratory 3 credits
This course examines birds from aspects of ecology, behavior, taxonomy, physiology, and identification.
Two one-hour lecture/discussion sessions and one three-hour lab/field trip each week. Offered in
alternate fall semesters. Prerequisite: B301.
B375 Natural History Field Trip 1-2 credits
This course combines lectures and a study tour to examine geological features and ecological
communities in a selected region within the continental U.S.A. that is accessible during a 7-10 day
trip (e.g., the Ozark Mountains or the Everglades). The class may stay at campgrounds or other rustic
accommodations during the trip. A travel fee for the study tour is required. Prerequisite: B301.
B380 Earth Science with Laboratory 3 credits
This lecture and lab course introduces students to the Earth’s dynamic systems. An overview of
physical geology is first presented. The class then examines specific processes of erosion, transport
and deposition and the resultant land forms that are produced. Other geomorphological processes are
also discussed. Throughout, emphasis is placed on the inter-relatedness of these processes, and how
they may impact and be altered by humans. Two lectures and one three-hour lab per week. Offered in
alternate fall semesters.
B384 Pollution Ecology with Laboratory 3 credits
This course involves an examination of major pollutants and their sources; ecological, health, and
economic effects; and control technology. Class sessions emphasize industry, transportation, agriculture
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