Biology, BS - Grades 7-12 Life Science Education Concentration

Program Description

Introduction

The College of Science is committed to the support of students seeking to become science, mathematics and technology educators at all levels. The Science, Mathematics and Technology Education (SMTE) program offers content courses for students seeking K-12 science, mathematics and technology education. SMTE classes are also an integral part of the course work for degrees preparing students for Teacher Certifications. The SMTE program does not offer a degree; rather, degrees leading to Teacher Certification are offered by other Science programs and by the College of Education and Human Development. Students seeking to teach in the elementary and secondary schools of Texas must meet degree requirements as well as certification requirements. The requirements and procedure to become a science, mathematics or technology teacher in Texas are outlined below. Undergraduate students who are graduating from the College of Science or the College of Liberal Arts who are seeking initial teacher certification at the 4-8, 7-12 and EC-12 levels prior to graduation, automatically qualify for the Minor in Education.

How to Become a Science, Mathematics or Technology Teacher in Texas

In order to be recommended for teacher certification at this university, a candidate must fulfill three basic requirements:

  1. have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university that includes an academic major and teacher training courses,
  2. complete teacher training through an approved program, and
  3. successfully complete the appropriate teacher certification tests for the subject and grade level that the candidate wishes to teach.

Additional information on the requirements to become a teacher in Texas can be obtained at the State Board of Educator Certification (SBEC) website: http://www.sbec.state.tx.us/SBECOnline/certinfo/becometeacher.asp. This website also provides information on the resources available to help students pay for a teacher training program.

SBEC has approved three levels of teacher certification for regular educators:

  1. Early childhood to grade 6 which includes foundation subjects and enrichment areas such as art, PE, and music,
  2. Grade 4-8 which includes the foundation areas only, and
  3. Grade 7-12 certification.

Students can find information on the different certifications at the official Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) Web site: http://www.texes.ets.org. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi offers several degrees leading to a number of these teacher certifications. The College of Education and Human Development offers several degrees leading to teacher certification. The College of Science offers bachelor’s degrees leading to teacher certification in the sciences, mathematics and technology at the 4-8 and the 7-12 levels:

Mathematics 7-12 teacher certification is also possible with an undergraduate major other than mathematics. Details can be found in the Mathematics, Grades 7-12 Teacher Certification Without a Mathematics Major section.

The individual programs, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Mathematics offer these degrees and courses.

Students seeking Teacher Certification are also strongly urged to contact the Certification Officer in the College of Education and Human Development about current requirements and procedures that must be met to obtain the certificate. In particular, students following a degree plan leading to teacher certification must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi prior to enrolling in any 4000 level EDCI or EDUC courses. Application forms for admission to the teacher education program may be obtained from the Undergraduate or Certification Office, room FC 201. The students are referred to the College of Education and Human Development section of this catalog for more information on the Teacher Education Program.

Grade Point Average for Admission to Teacher Education

A minimum grade point average of 2.75 (4.0 = A) in all work attempted, a minimum grade point average of 2.75 in all science, math, or specialization areas, and no grade below “C” in any science or mathematics course on a student’s degree plan and/or education courses within the professional block of courses are required. (See College of Education and Human Development, “Admission to Teacher Education” and “Admission to Clinical Teaching” for other requirements.)

Alteration of a Certification Plan

Any amendment to a degree plan originally filed must be approved by the student’s academic advisor, the Department Chair, the Dean of the College of Science, and the Certification Officer of the College of Education and Human Development for the degree to be granted.

General Requirements

The Life Science Education plan is designed for those students who desire a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and a secondary teaching certificate in life science. The requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Biology degree with grades 7-12 Life Science Education Concentration are a minimum of 1201 semester hours. Forty-two are designated University core curriculum courses; 41 are biology teaching core courses, and 27 are professional development courses. Other requirements include a psychology course and upper division elective courses.

1

Students may have to take additional hours to meet university requirements such as First-Year Seminar courses or major requirements that include 4 hour math and science courses.

Requirements Credit Hours
First-Year Seminars (when applicable)1 0-2
Core Curriculum Program 42
Support Areas 12
Biology Teaching Core 41
Professional Development/Reading Sequence 27
Total Credit Hours 122-124
1

Full-time, first time in college students are required to take the first-year seminars. The First-Year Seminars will not count towards the 120 hour minimum requirements to graduate.

Program Requirements

Requirements

Full-time, First-year Students 1
UNIV 1101University Seminar I1
UNIV 1102University Seminar II1
Core Curriculum Program
University Core Curriculum42
Life Science Education students must take specific courses to ensure they have the proper prerequisites for more advanced coursework:
Mathematics
Calculus I (lab hour counts under Component Area Option) 2
Life and Physical Sciences
Biology I (lab hour counts under Component Area Option)
Biology II (lab hour counts under Component Area Option)
Component Area Option
Biology I (Lab Hours)
Biology II (Lab Hours)
Calculus I (Lab Hours)
General Chemistry I (lab hour counts under Support Areas)
Support Areas
CHEM 1412General Chemistry II4
CHEM 3411Organic Chemistry I4
ENGL 3301Technical and Professional Writing3
CHEM 1411General Chemistry I (1 sem. hr. lab)1
Biology Teaching Core
Biology I (included in University Core)
Biology II (included in University Core)
BIOL 2371Principles of Evolution3
BIOL 2401Anatomy and Physiology I4
BIOL 2416Genetics4
BIOL 2421Microbiology4
BIOL 3428Principles of Ecology4
Calculus I (included in University Core)
SMTE 4270Science Education Topics I2
SMTE 4217Secondary Approaches to the Life Sciences2
SMTE 4320Secondary Science Laboratory Techniques3
Chemistry of Life/Cell Biology Requirement
BIOL 3403Molecular Biology4
or BIOL 3410 Cell Biology
or CHEM 4401 Biochemistry I
Organismal (Animal) Requirement
BIOL 3413Invertebrate Zoology4
or BIOL 3414 Vertebrate Zoology
Organismal (Plant) Requirement
BIOL 2472Principles of Botany4
or BIOL 3455 Plant form and Function
Upper Division Biology Elective Requirement
Select one of the following electives:3
Biostatistics
Embryology
Coral Reef Conservation
Biology of Viruses
Biology of Marine Mammals
Global Change Ecology
Fisheries
Conservation Biology
Oceans and Human Health
Mariculture
Other upper division Biology courses may be taken with approval
Professional Development and Reading Sequence
EDUC 2211Foundations of Education2
SPED 3310Individual Differences in Schools and Communities3
READ 3353Content Area Reading for Secondary Students3
or READ 3352 Content Area Reading for Elementary Students
EDUC 3211Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Teaching2
BIEM 4357Methods of Teaching English as a Second Language3
EDUC 4305Seminar I3
IDET 3210Design and Development of Technology-Integrated Learning Environments2
EDUC 4694Clinical Teaching6
EDUC 4395Seminar II3
Total Hours124
1

Students entering with some college credit may not be required to take one or both of the First-Year Seminar courses (see the “First-Year Seminar” section of the Core Curriculum Program for rules and exceptions concerning these courses).

The hours associated with the First-Year Seminars do not count toward the total number of semester credit hours needed to graduate.

2

Students who are not eligible to enroll in MATH 2413 Calculus I (4 sch) will need to take additional prerequisite courses (3-9 sem. hrs.) depending on their math placement level (i.e., MATH 0300 Developmental Mathematics (3 sch), MATH 1314 College Algebra (3 sch) and MATH 1316 Trigonometry (3 sch), or MATH 2312 Precalculus (3 sch)).

Support Areas

To become certified to teach, one additional 3 sem. hr. English course (2000-level or higher)  is required to meet certification requirements and this degree requires that students take ENGL 3301 Technical and Professional Writing (3 sch) to fulfill that requirement.

Professional Development and Reading Sequence

Students who seek a 7-12 level Life Science teaching certificate should contact a Certification Officer in the College of Education and Human Development about requirements and procedures that must be met to obtain the certificate. The professional development sequence must be taken in a specific order and it is recommended that students contact the College of Education and Human Development early in their academic careers for specific details on these courses.

Course Sequencing 

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallHours
BIOL 1406 Biology I 4
CHEM 1411 General Chemistry I 4
ENGL 1301 Writing and Rhetoric I 3
UNIV 1101 University Seminar I 1
Social and Behavioral Sciences Core Requirement 3
 Hours15
Spring
BIOL 1407 Biology II 4
CHEM 1412 General Chemistry II 4
ENGL 1302 Writing and Rhetoric II 3
UNIV 1102 University Seminar II 1
MATH 2413 Calculus I 4
 Hours16
Second Year
Fall
BIOL 2371
Principles of Evolution
or Genetics
or Microbiology
3-4
CHEM 3411 Organic Chemistry I 4
ENGL 2316
Literature and Culture
or Literature of the Western World: From the Classics to the Renaissance
or Literature of the Western World: From the Enlightenment to the Present
3
EDUC 2211 Foundations of Education 2
Creative Arts Core Requirement 3
American History Core Requirement 3
 Hours18-19
Spring
BIOL 2371
Principles of Evolution
or Genetics
or Microbiology
3-4
BIOL 2401 Anatomy and Physiology I 4
BIOL 2371
Principles of Evolution
or Genetics
or Microbiology
3-4
SPED 3310 Individual Differences in Schools and Communities 3
American History Core Requirement 3
 Hours16-18
Third Year
Fall
ENGL 3301 Technical and Professional Writing 3
SMTE 4270 Science Education Topics I 2
Organismal Animal Requirement 4
Organismal Plant Requirement 4
READ 3353
Content Area Reading for Secondary Students
or Content Area Reading for Elementary Students
3
EDUC 3211 Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Teaching 2
 Hours18
Spring
BIOL 3428 Principles of Ecology 4
Chemistry of Life/Cell Biology Requirement 4
SMTE 4320 Secondary Science Laboratory Techniques 3
SMTE 4217 Secondary Approaches to the Life Sciences 2
BIEM 4357 Methods of Teaching English as a Second Language 3
 Hours16
Summer
Upper Division Elective 3
POLS 2305 U.S. Government and Politics 3
POLS 2306 State and Local Government 3
 Hours9
Fourth Year
Fall
EDUC 4305 Seminar I 3
IDET 3210 Design and Development of Technology-Integrated Learning Environments 2
 Hours5
Spring
EDUC 4694 Clinical Teaching 6
EDUC 4395 Seminar II 3
 Hours9
 Total Hours122-125

Courses

BIOL 1308  Science for Life I (Non-Majors Biology)  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

A non-majors science course. Students will learn basic biological principles, identify the relevance of science in everyday life, and will understand the scientific method. This course does NOT substitute for BIOL 1406 - Biology I or BIOL 1407 - Biology II for science majors. Offered in Spring, Summer, Fall.

TCCNS: BIOL 1308  
BIOL 1406  Biology I  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)  

Presentation of basic biological concepts including scientific method, cytology, energetics, nucleic acids and genetics. This course is suitable for all majors. Offered every semester.

Prerequisite: (MATH 1314, 1316, 2305, 2413, minimum score of 21 in 'ACT Math' or minimum score of 550 in 'SAT Math').

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
TCCNS: BIOL 1406  
BIOL 1407  Biology II  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)  

This course is an overview of the major concepts in biological diversity and plant and animal biology. Laboratory work will include individual/team activities as well as technology-related assignments. Offered every semester.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1406.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
TCCNS: BIOL 1407  
BIOL 2300  Science Communication  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

This course involves presentation and discussion of selected topics relating to the professional skills of practicing biological scientists, including basic software instruction, a review of library services pertinent to science, the application of scientific literature research skills, hypothesis generation and statistical tests, critical reviews of scientific articles, and an introduction to ethical issues in science. Offered Spring and Fall.

BIOL 2371  Principles of Evolution  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

An overview of the mechanisms by which heritable information changes, adaptations develop, and species diversify. Provides a foundation for molecular, cellular, and organismal studies in the biological sciences. Offered Fall and Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

BIOL 2401  Anatomy and Physiology I  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)  

Structure and function of the human body emphasizing biological chemistry, cell biology, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Offered every semester. Not recommended for majors in the College of Science. To count this course toward a major in the Department of Life Sciences, a student must demonstrate that it is required by professional schools in their career track and obtain approval for a substitution from their faculty mentor. Students may not receive credit for both this course and either  BIOL 3425 - Functional Anatomy or  BIOL 3430 - Physiology.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
TCCNS: BIOL 2401  
BIOL 2402  Anatomy and Physiology II  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)  

Structure and function of the human body emphasizing blood, growth, development, genetics, and the endocrine, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune and urogenital systems. Offered every semester. Not recommended for majors in the College of Science. To count this course toward a major in the Department of Life Sciences, a student must demonstrate that is is required by professional schools in their career track and obtain approval for a substitution from their mentor. Students may not receive credit for both this course and either  BIOL 3425 - Functional Anatomy or  BIOL 3430 - Physiology.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2401.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
TCCNS: BIOL 2402  
BIOL 2416  Genetics  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Principles of genetic transmissions and molecular basis of heredity and variation. Weekly recitation periods will involve team assignments, problem solving activities, and seminars. Offered Fall and Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1406 and 1407.

TCCNS: BIOL 2416  
BIOL 2420  Principles of Microbiology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)  

Introduction to microorganisms with emphasis on those of importance in patient care. Principles of disinfection, sterilization, immunity. This class is intended for nursing majors; it cannot substitute for BIOL 2421 - Microbiology. Offered Fall and Spring.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0092.  
TCCNS: BIOL 2420  
BIOL 2421  Microbiology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

An introduction to microorganisms including the bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Laboratory involves microbiological techniques and development of basic laboratory skills. Offered Fall and Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1406, 1407, CHEM 1411 and 1412.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0092.  
TCCNS: BIOL 2421  
BIOL 2472  Principles of Botany  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Introduction to the structure, function, diversity and application of plants. Laboratory focuses on anatomical features, physiological adaptations, classification, and life cycles. Offered odd Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407 and CHEM 1411.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 3300  Animal Nutrition  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Examines dietary requirements of companion animals and livestock. Includes anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the gastrointestinal system, nutrient procurement and use, feed additives, growth stimulants, metabolic diseases, and diet therapy. Offered odd Spring. Cross-listed with BIMS 3300.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407 and CHEM 3411 and (CHEM 3412 or 3412*).
* May be taken concurrently.

BIOL 3325  Biostatistics  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

The application of statistical analyses to biological data.  Students will gain an understanding of how to apply statistical analyses to biological data through study of the principles of experimental design including how to frame informative research questions. At a fundamental level, these concepts are linked to the philosophy of science and our understanding of the way the world works. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered every Spring.

BIOL 3345  Cell Physiology  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Course emphasizes cellular functions that underlie physiological processes, transport across membranes, membrane potential and excitability, the cell nucleus, and organelles and their relationship to energy, metabolism, and transport mechanisms within the cell. Offered odd Spring.

Prerequisite: (BIMS 2200 or BIOL 2300) and BIOL 3410.

BIOL 3403  Molecular Biology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Principles of molecular biology including advanced concepts of gene structure, expression and regulation, chromatin structure, recombination, and current molecular biology techniques. Laboratory emphasis is on basic skills for nucleic acid analyses, including extraction, PCR amplification, quantification, restriction, and electrophoresis. DNA sequencing-based approaches are covered including bioinformatics for sequence comparisons, polymorphisms, and molecular identification. Offered every Spring. Cross listed with BIMS 3403.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2416 and 2421.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0092.  
BIOL 3410  Cell Biology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Study of cellular architecture and function. Topics include membranes, transport, organelles, cytoskeleton, and signaling mechanisms. Interrelationships of structure, function, energy and metabolism are explored. Laboratory will emphasize basic techniques of cell biology. Offered every Fall.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2416 and CHEM 3411.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0092.  
BIOL 3413  Invertebrate Zoology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Structure, life history, and evolution of the invertebrates with special emphasis on the phylogeny and ecological relationships of the major phyla. Laboratory will involve field trips and survey collections. Offered every Fall.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 3414  Vertebrate Zoology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Structure, life history, and evolution of the vertebrates with special emphasis on the phylogeny and ecological relationships of the classes. Laboratory focuses on internal and external anatomy and identification of representative organisms. Offered every Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 3425  Functional Anatomy  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

General trends in morphological development and adaptation as demonstrated by the anatomy and embryology of living and extinct chordates. Offered every Spring. Students may not receive credit for both this course and either BIOL 2401 - Anatomy and Physiology I or BIOL 2402 - Anatomy and Physiology II.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 3428  Principles of Ecology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Introduction to the interrelationships of organisms and their environment. Population structure, community classification and regulation, and energy flow in ecosystems will also be covered. Laboratory sections will focus on experimental design and field techniques in ecology.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407 and (BIOL 2200, 2300, BIMS 2200 or UNIV 1101 and UNIV 1102) and CHEM 1411 and (MATH 2413 or 2413*).
* May be taken concurrently.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 3430  Physiology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

The study of physiological processes that are the product of complex interactions between tissues, organs and organ systems, with emphasis on the circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, muscular, digestive, and urogenital systems. Particular focus on homeostasis, and the role of the environment and evolution on organ systems. Offered every Fall. Students may not receive credit for both this course and either  BIOL 2401 - Anatomy and Physiology I, or  BIOL 2402 - Anatomy and Physiology II.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 3455  Plant form and Function  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Anatomy of vegetative and reproductive organs of plants, unique cellular features, development and differentiation of cell and tissue types. Emphasis on physiological mechanisms of response and adaptation to the environment. Offered even Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 3479  Plant Ecology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Structure, physiology, life cycles, and economic impact of plants. Factors influencing diversity, succession and ecological distribution of plants. Offered odd Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4301  Embryology  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

This course explores the events that occur just prior to and during gestation. Includes gametogenesis, chromosomal and single gene aberrations, teratology, and the development of the body systems. Offered every Fall.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2416.

BIOL 4302  Coral Reef Conservation  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Survey of challenges and threats facing coral reef ecosystems in the 21st century and discussion of conservation and management strategies.  Topics include biology and ecology of reef ecosystems, climate change impacts, coral bleaching, over-fishing and effectiveness of and design of marine protected areas. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered every Fall.

BIOL 4304  Biology of Viruses  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Introduction to the study of viruses, including viral life cycles, replication schemes and Baltimore classification of representative bacteriophages, plant and animal viruses. Emphasis on analysis and review of primary literature on viruses. Offered Summer II every year.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2416, 2421 and CHEM 1411.

BIOL 4307  Fungal Biology and Ecology  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Overview of the fungi, including their characteristics, diversity, and ecology. Interactions between fungi and other organisms are explored along with the role and importance of the fungi. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered odd Spring. Stacked with BIOL 5307.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2421.

BIOL 4311  Biological Bases of Behavior  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

This lecture-based course examines the processes by which neuronal circuits generate behaviors and the mechanisms by which experience modulates the activity of these circuits. Offered every Fall.

Prerequisite: BIMS 4323.

BIOL 4312  Mariculture Techniques  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Application of biological, mechanical, and other concepts required to develop the skills and techniques necessary for efficient operation and management of public and private aquaculture facilities. Offered odd Fall.

Prerequisite: BIOL 4370.

BIOL 4315  Animal Behavior  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

What mechanisms cause behavior? How does behavior develop? How does behavior affect survival and reproduction? How does behavior evolve? These questions will be explored in vertebrate and invertebrate species. Junior or Senior only. Offered every Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5315.

BIOL 4319  Biology of Marine Mammals  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Introduction to marine mammals, with a focus on their interactions with their biotic and abiotic environment. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered every Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5319.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

BIOL 4323  Global Change Ecology  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

An introduction to the effects of climatic and anthropogenic change on terrestrial and aquatic structure and function. Includes readings from the current literature and discussion of controversial articles. Offered odd Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3428.

BIOL 4328  Fisheries  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

A study of theory and techniques in fisheries science, including practical fisheries sampling designs and techniques, behavior of fisheries populations and application to resource management with emphasis in tide-influenced waters. Includes readings in the current literature. Offered even Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

BIOL 4330  Conservation Biology  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Principles and theories relating to the conservation of biological diversity, including patterns and processes creating biological diversity, estimates of extinction rates, consequences of losses of biodiversity and causes of diversity loss. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered every Fall.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3428.

BIOL 4334  Biology and Ecology of Coral Reefs  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

This course will introduce the biology of corals, describe the abiotic and biotic interactions among coral reef ecosystem inhabitants, identify the threats of climate change, and discuss the conservation and management of reefs for the future. Offered every Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3428.

BIOL 4336  Marine Ecology  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Habitats and community structure in marine environments; biotic and abiotic factors governing the distribution of marine organisms. Offered every Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3428.

BIOL 4340  Genomics, Proteomics and Bioinformatics  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

An introduction to integrative biological study using genome-wide approaches and bioinformatics. The "-omics" technologies (Genomics, Proteomics, Metabolomics, etc.) will be surveyed for current and potential contributions to understanding biological function at molecular, cellular, organismal and ecosystem levels. Offered every Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5340.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2416 and (BIOL 3410, 3403 or CHEM 4401).

BIOL 4343  Oceans and Human Health  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Healthy oceans are essential to the habitability of our planet – for humans and all other forms of life. Students will explore links between oceans, pollution, human well-being, ecosystem services, resource management, and the science and legislation governing the enforcement of water quality standards. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered every Fall.

BIOL 4350  Research and Design  
1-4 Semester Credit Hours (1-3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Course will include experimental design, literature review of a research topic and laboratory work on the research topic. Consent of Instructor.

BIOL 4353  Down the River: Biology of Gulf Coast Fishes  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

This course covers aspects of ecology and biogeography of riverine and estuarine fishes while exposing students to field sampling techniques and museum preparation of specimens. This will be a unique opportunity for students to gain an in-depth understanding of the biological complexity of Texas Gulf Coast river systems while gaining hands-on experience in field and museum ichthyological techniques that are employed by state, federal and academic researchers alike. Offered during Maymester.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4355  Public Aquarium and Animal Care Operations  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

This course examines the unique requirements needed for public aquariums and zoos to balance animal care and health with public display for general education and conservation research. Offered during Summer.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4360  Computation for 21st Century Biologists  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

This course is designed to prepare and enable students to use computational tools for bioinformatic applications in advanced courses and independent research projects. Students will be introduced to powerful open-source computing tools used in biological research for creation, organization, manipulation, processing, analysis, and archiving of big data. While not a formal requirement, it is assumed that students have a firm command of basic algebra. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered every Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5360.

BIOL 4370  Mariculture  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Survey of the physiological, behavioral, environmental, and economic parameters governing the culture of selected aquatic species. Included are techniques employed worldwide to produce aquatic products. Offered every Fall. Cross-listed with FAMA 5370.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

BIOL 4396  Directed Independent Study  
1-3 Semester Credit Hours (1-3 Lecture Hours)  

Research in areas of current interest. Written report required. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 semester hours.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407 and CHEM 1412.

BIOL 4399  Directed Independent Research  
3-6 Semester Credit Hours (3-6 Lecture Hours)  

Independent laboratory- or field-based research project on topic of current interest. Project developed in conjunction with a faculty advisor. Written report required. May be repeated once for a total of 6 semester credit hours. Sophomores or Juniors or Seniors and Permission of Instructor (faculty advisor).

BIOL 4406  Immunology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

An overview of immunology with emphasis on current knowledge of the immune system. Detailed examination of the specific cells, cytokines, antibodies, and molecules that comprise the immune system. Laboratory exercises demonstrate the basic principles and techniques used in immunologic studies. Offered every Spring semester. Cross listed with BIMS 4406.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2421.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0092.  
BIOL 4407  BIOLOGY OF THE FUNGI  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 1 Lab Hour)  

Overview of the fungi, including their characteristics, diversity, and ecology. Interactions between fungi and other organisms are explored along with the role and importance of the fungi.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2421.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0092.  
BIOL 4408  Microbial Diversity and Ecology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Biodiversity and roles of microorganisms in natural environments. Interactions with other micro- and macro-organisms (humans, animals and plants) and with abiotic factors. Unique abilities of microorganisms such as nitrogen fixation and adaptation to extreme environments. Offered every Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5408; Cross-listed with MARB 6408.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2421 and 3428.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0092.  
BIOL 4410  Mammalogy  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Systematics and ecology of mammals including mammalian origins, structure and function, diversity, ecology, behavior, and conservation. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered even Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5410.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4413  Entomology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

A broad overview of the natural history, classification, phylogeny, ecology, behavior, development and physiology of insects and their kin. The lab will involve field work, collection and curation. Offered in spring semester of even years. Stacked with BIOL 5413.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3413.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4425  Ornithology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Systematics, anatomy, physiology, ecology, behavior, and field identification of birds. Juniors and Seniors only. Offered odd Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5425.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4429  Marine Botany  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

The ecology of marine plants with emphasis on identification, life histories, and environmental factors of distribution. Offered every Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5429.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4430  Marine Plankton  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

In this class we will investigate the systematics, distribution, and ecology of major marine plankton groups and introduce major concepts in biological oceanography. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered odd Spring. Stacked with BIOL 5430; Cross-listed with MARB 6430.

BIOL 4432  Ichthyology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Systematics, evolution, biology, and ecology of fishes. Laboratory identification of marine and freshwater fishes collected during field excursions. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered every Fall. Stacked with BIOL 5432; Cross-listed with MARB 6432.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4433  Parasitology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

An introduction to parasitology with emphasis on internal parasites and appropriate references to human endoparasites and parasites of veterinary importance. Juniors and Seniors only. Offered every Spring.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2421.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0092.  
BIOL 4439  Case Work Methods in Forensic Anthropology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

This course combines the study of human bones (osteology) and skeletal anatomy with established and validated forensic anthropological methods to solve theoretical and actual forensic cases involving human remains. BIOL 2401 or permission of Instructor. Offered every Spring. Stacked with BIOL 5439; Cross-listed with BIMS 4439.

Prerequisite: BIOL 2401.

BIOL 4442  Herpetology  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Systematics, ecology, and behavior of amphibians and reptiles. Juniors or Seniors only. Offered odd Spring. Stacked with BIOL 5442.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1407.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4444  Estuarine Organisms  
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 3 Lab Hours)  

Systematics, distribution, and ecology of estuarine macrofauna. Required field trip. Individual study required. Juniors and Seniors only.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3413.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.  
BIOL 4547  Marine Science Field Camp  
5 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 6 Lab Hours)  

Students learn techniques required to properly conduct marine science field research. Practical, hands-on experience is gained in a variety of topics including biotic and abiotic sample collection and processing, quantitative analysis of field data, evaluation of environmental factors, survival and distribution of living organisms, and the structure of biotic communities. Juniors or Seniors. Offered Maymester.

BIOL 4590  Selected Topics  
5 Semester Credit Hours (5 Lecture Hours)  

Variable content. May be repeated for credit.

BIOL 4598  Biology Internship  
2-6 Semester Credit Hours  

Two to six semester credit hours may be earned by working in an internship position in a governmental agency, private industry, or other appropriate venue. 

BIOL 4609  Field and Sampling Techniques  
6 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 6 Lab Hours)  

The study of techniques required for proper field work in the biological sciences. The course includes ecological sampling methods, safety, logistics, equipment operation and maintenance and travel concerns. Offered in Summer.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0091.