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Biology (B.A., B.A. with Secondary Ed. Certification, B.S. and Minor) and Health Science (B.S.)
Rob Wilhelmi, biology graduate from the Class of 2002, discussed
environmental consulting with science club members in the Fall of
2003. |
Welcome to the web page for the Biology and Health Science programs at
Aurora University! Below you will find an overview of the programs we
offer including catalog descriptions of the majors and minors, student
outcomes for each major and minor, and an introduction to the faculty.
You will also learn more about what our alumni have been doing since graduation. ±
Biologists feel a sense of adventure in the search for truth about living processes. The study of biology should increase your awareness and appreciation of the living world, enhance your ability in creative problem-solving, and guide you in the practice of disciplined analysis that is scientific methodology as well as give you entry to an existing career.
Biologists are in demand for employment in commercial firms in areas such as agricultural products, biological supply, food processing, and health care materials. Research institutions hire biologists trained in a wide variety of specialties. National and state government agencies offer positions in both laboratory and field situations. Educational institutions at all levels hire the widest array of biologists. More and more people are interested in biology to gain entrance into or to advance in “the para-biological professions” such as social work, land-use planning, population control and consumer protection.
MAJOR IN BIOLOGY - B.A.
The BA in biology requires coursework drawn primarily from the biology program as well as the general University requirements for graduation, while the BS degree includes a strong support core in other areas of science and mathematics. Students often combine the BA in biology with a second major or minor in such areas as chemistry, computer science, business administration, physical education or education.
Required Courses: 15 semester hours
BIO1210 Biology of Cells (4)
BIO1220 Biology of Organisms (4)
CHM1310 General Chemistry I (4)
NSM4990 Senior Capstone in Natural Sciences (3)
Selected Courses: Minimum of 27 semester hours.
A minimum of one course is required from each of Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 and at least one plant course (BIO3260 or BIO3060) must be included. The use of selected topic courses in biology will be determined on a course by course basis with approval of the program chair.
Group 1: Diversity of Organisms
BIO3150 Invertebrate Biology (4)
BIO3250 Vertebrate Biology (4)
BIO3260 Comparative Botany (4)
BIO3280 Microbiology (4)
Group 2: Organism Interaction with the Environment
BIO2200 Humans and the Environment (4)
BIO3370 Conservation Biology (3)
BIO3510 Ecology (4)
BIO3520 Animal Behavior (3)
BIO3530 Evolution (4)
Group 3: Structure and Function of Organisms
BIO2660 Anatomy & Physiology I (4)
BIO2670 Anatomy & Physiology II (4)
BIO3270 Plant Physiology (4)
Group 4: Molecular and Cellular Biology
BIO3400 Genetics (4)
BIO3450 Advanced Cellular Biology (4)
BIO/CHM3550 Biochemistry (3)
Group 5: Biotechnology
BIO/CHM3380 Biotechnology (3)
Group 6: Other courses which may be used up to a maximum of 6 semester hours from this group:
BIO2830,3830,
4830 Directed Study (1-4)
BIO3940,4940 Internship in Biology (2-4)
BIO3970 Research in Biology (1-4)
BIO3980,4980 Independent Study (1-4)
BIO3790 ACCA Affiliated Course (2-4)
It is highly recommended that students combine a Biology BA with one of the following: a minor in chemistry, teaching certification in secondary education or a second major.
MAJOR IN BIOLOGY - B.A., Secondary Certification Option
The BA in biology with a secondary certification option is designed for those students with a career interest in secondary education teaching. The following courses are required for the secondary teaching certification option in biology.
Required Courses: 50 semester hours
BIO1210 Biology of Cells (4)
BIO1220 Biology of Organisms (4)
BIO3150 Invertebrate Biology (4)
OR
BIO3250 Vertebrate Biology (4)
BIO3260 Comparative Botany (4)
BIO3510 Ecology (4)
BIO3530 Evolution (4)
BIO2660 Anatomy & Physiology I (4)
BIO2670 Anatomy & Physiology II (4)
BIO3400 Genetics (4)
BIO/CHM3380 Biotechnology (3)
BIO3820 Methods of Teaching Secondary Science-Biology (4)
CHM1310 General Chemistry I (4)
NSM4990 Senior Capstone in Natural Sciences (3)
Other courses which may be used up to a maximum of 6 semester hours from this group:
BIO2830,3830,
4830 Directed Study (1-4)
BIO3940,4940 Internship in Biology (2-4)
BIO3970 Research in Biology (1-4)
BIO3980,4980 Independent Study (1-4)
BIO3790 ACCA Affiliated Course (2-4)
NOTE: NSM1150 Science Foundations and NSM1300 Earth Science must also be taken as either General Education science distribution courses or as electives. Students wishing to substitute another course or experience for one of these courses must submit a portfolio which clearly demonstrates that all of the associated Illinois outcomes will or have been met. Prescribed professional education courses must also be successfully completed.
MAJOR IN BIOLOGY - B.S.
The BS degree program is a comprehensive program providing a general background in several different aspects of science, including biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. The BS degree in Biology is recommended for students who intend to continue their education in a graduate school or an advanced technical school, and for those who want a strong, broad-based degree in the natural sciences. Biologists feel a sense of adventure in the search for truth about living processes. The study of biology should increase students’ awareness and appreciation of the living world, enhance their ability in creative problem-solving, and guide them in the practice of disciplined analysis that is scientific methodology as well as give them entry to an existing career.
Biologists are in demand for employment in commercial firms in areas such as agricultural products, biological supply, food processing, and health care materials. Research institutions hire biologists trained in a wide variety of specialties. National and state government agencies offer positions in both laboratory and field situations. Educational institutions at all levels hire the widest array of biologists. More and more people are interested in biology to gain entrance into or to advance in “the para-biological professions” such as social work, land-use planning, population control, and consumer protection.
The BS in biology requires coursework which includes a strong support core in biology as well as other areas of science and mathematics. Students may combine the BS in biology with a second major or minor in such areas as chemistry, computer science or business administration.
DIVISION I: Science Core Program: 31-32 semester hours
BIO1210 Biology of Cells (4)
BIO1220 Biology of Organisms (4)
BIO3260 Comparative Botany (4)
CHM1310 General Chemistry I (4)
CHM1320 General Chemistry II (4)
PHY2210 General Physics I (4)
PHY2220 General Physics II (4)
One of the following three courses based on results of the Mathematics Competency Examination:
MTH2120 Calculus for Management and Sciences (3)
MTH2210 Calculus I (4)
MTH2700 Statistics for Research (3)
DIVISION II: Required Course: 3 semester hours
NSM4990 Senior Capstone in Natural Sciences (3)
Selected Courses: Minimum of 28 semester hours.
A minimum of one course is required from each of Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4. The use of selected topic courses in biology will be determined on a course by course basis with approval of the program chair.
Group 1: Diversity of Organisms
BIO3150 Invertebrate Biology (4)
BIO3250 Vertebrate Biology (4)
BIO3280 Microbiology (4)
Group 2: Organism Interaction with the Environment
BIO2200 Humans and the Environment (4)
BIO3370 Conservation Biology (3)
BIO3510 Ecology (4)
BIO3520 Animal Behavior (3)
BIO3530 Evolution (4)
Group 3: Structure and Function of Organisms
BIO2660 Anatomy & Physiology I (4)
BIO2670 Anatomy & Physiology II (4)
BIO3270 Plant Physiology (4)
Group 4: Molecular and Cellular Biology
BIO3400 Genetics (4)
BIO3450 Advanced Cellular Biology (4)
BIO/CHM3550 Biochemistry (3)
Group 5: Biotechnology
BIO/CHM3380 Biotechnology (3)
Group 6: Other courses which may be used up to a maximum of 8 semester hours from this group:
BIO2830,3830,
4830 Directed Study (1-4)
BIO3940,4940 Internship in Biology (2-4)
BIO3970 Research in Biology (1-4)
BIO3980,4980 Independent Study (1-4)
BIO3790 ACCA Affiliated Course (2-4)
MAJOR IN HEALTH SCIENCE - B.S. (Pre-medical, pre-dental, pre-veterinary, and allied health programs)
The health sciences offer a wide range of career opportunities for those interested in the health professions. Career options include allopathic, osteopathic, chiropractic, naturopathic, and veterinary medicine, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, pharmacy, physical and occupational therapy, dietetics, medical technology, physician assistant, and public health.
Competition for entry into the various professional schools is significant, so strong performance in academic coursework and national admission tests is essential. Critical thinking, sound reasoning, an aptitude in science, being articulate, and writing well are necessary skills in these professions. The health science program at Aurora University is designed to give the student maximum training and exposure. However, a program can only be as strong as its participants. Only mature, committed individuals are encouraged to pursue such careers. In addition, personal qualities such as integrity, concern for the well being of others, and a sincere commitment to a life of service are highly sought after in professionals.
A health science degree provides a strong background in the basic sciences, (chemistry-inorganic, organic, and biochemistry; biology-cell & molecular, genetics, and anatomy & physiology; and physics). In addition, courses in nutrition, health, exercise, and psychology offer the student an opportunity to observe and study how food choices, exercise, social connections and the individual’s mental outlook impact his/her health and wellness and contribute to diseases. A clinical experience in one of the health care professions is highly recommended. Students will primarily observe health care providers in medically-oriented institutions.
Division I: Science Core Program: 27 or 28 semester hours
BIO1210 Biology of Cells (4)
BIO3080 Nutrition and Health Promotion (4)
CHM1310 General Chemistry I (4)
CHM1320 General Chemistry II (4)
MTH2210 Calculus I (4)
or
MTH2120 Calculus for Management and Sciences (3)
or
MTH2700 Statistics for Research (3)
PHY2210 General Physics I (4)
PHY2220 General Physics II (4)
Division II: Required Courses: 25 semester hours
BIO2660 Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
BIO2670 Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
BIO2750 Health Professions Seminar (2)
BIO3400 Genetics (4)
CHM2410 Organic Chemistry I (4)
CHM2420 Organic Chemistry II (4)
NSM4990 Senior Capstone in Natural Sciences (3)
Division III: Selected Courses: Choose 12 semester hours from the following
BIO3050 Pathophysiology (3)
*BIO3250 Vertebrate Biology (4)
BIO3260 Comparative Botany (4)
BIO3280 Microbiology (4)
BIO3360 Biogerontology (4)
*BIO3370 Conservation Biology (3)
BIO/CHM3380 Biotechnology (3)
BIO3450 Advanced Cell Biology (4)
*BIO3510 Ecology (4)
*BIO3520 Animal Behavior (3)
BIO3530 Evolution (4)
BIO/CHM3550 Biochemistry (3)
BIO3790 ACCA Affiliated Course (2-4)
BIO3810/4810 Selected Topic (2-4)
BIO3940/4940 Internship in Biology (2-4)
BIO3970 Research in Biology (1-4)
BIO4980 Independent Study (1-4)
PSY3380 Brain and Behavior (3)
* Students who are pre-veterinary are strongly encouraged to consider these courses as part of their selected courses.
MINOR IN BIOLOGY - 20 semester hours
Required Courses:
BIO1210 Biology of Cells (4)
BIO1220 Biology of Organisms (4)
Selected Courses:
Students must choose at least 12 semester hours offered in the Biology Program at the 200 level or above excluding directed studies, independent studies, and internships. No more than four (4) semester hours in total may be applied from selected topic courses or BIO3970.
MINOR IN PHYSIOLOGY - 18 semester hours
Choose 18 semester hours from the list below:
NOTE: Ten semester hours must be at the 300-400 level.
BIO1210 Biology of Cells (4)
BIO1220 Biology of Organisms (4)
BIO2660 Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
BIO2670 Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
BIO3050 Pathophysiology (3)
BIO3080 Nutrition and Health Promotion (4)
BIO3270 Plant Physiology (4)
BIO3360 Biogerontology (4)
BIO3530 Evolution (4)
BIO2810,3810,4810: Selected Topic in Anatomy or Physiology (2-4)
BIO3790 ACCA Affiliated Course (2-4)
*BIO3970 Research in Biology (1-4)
*BIO3940/4940 Internship in Biology (2-4)
*BIO4980 Independent Study (1-4)
PED3220 Physiology of Exercise (3)
PSY3380 Brain and Behavior (3)
* Only 3 semester hours may be applied.
BIOLOGY COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
BIO1060 Human Biology 4 semester hours
The course examines the human organism and the impact of modern biology and medicinal discoveries on humans. Topics covered include anatomy/physiology, immunity, reproduction, development, genetics, and the relationship between humans and their environment. No laboratory requirement.
No prerequisites.
Meets General Education “Observation of the Natural World” requirement.
BIO1210 Biology of Cells 4 semester hours
This course studies the cell as the basic unit of biology. Topics include classification of living organisms, acellular and cellular organisms; structure and roles of biologically important molecules; prokaryote and eucaryote cell structure; concepts of metabolism and energy flow; enzymes; photosynthesis; ATP production; cell reproduction; molecular genetics; and the principles of Mendelian genetics. Laboratory exercises are coordinated with lecture topics.
No prerequisites.
Meets General Education “Observation of the Natural World” requirement.
BIO1220 Biology of Organisms 4 semester hours
This course is an introductory-level biology class that provides students with an overview of the fundamentals of evolution, diversity of life, and ecology. The course will also emphasize how the scientific method is used to gain an understanding of these concepts.
No prerequisites.
BIO2200 Humans and the Environment 4 semester hours
This course provides students with an overview of the relationship between humans and their environment. Specifically, the course will introduce students to the environmental problems that we face including human population growth, air pollution, water pollution, loss of biological diversity and energy usage, and discusses potential solutions to these problems. We also investigate local environmental issues.
No prerequisites.
Meets General Education “Observation of the Natural World” requirement.
BIO2660 Anatomy & Physiology I 4 semester hours
Detailed study of the relationship between structure and function of an organism with an emphasis on the human system. Physical-chemical principles related to the major organ systems, including integumentary, muscular, skeletal, nervous, and the senses. A partial course in anatomy and physiology. Lab exercises are coordinated with lecture material.
Prerequisite: BIO1210.
BIO2670 Anatomy & Physiology II 4 semester hours
Adds to the topics of Anatomy and Physiology I the aspects of endocrine, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular and urogenital systems, immunity and reproduction. Anatomy and Physiology I and II make a complete course in anatomy and physiology. Lab exercises emphasize and expand lecture principles.
Prerequisite: BIO2660.
BIO2750 Health Professions Seminar 2 semester hours
Designed for students with a definite interest in one of the health professions. This course introduces the student to the basic health care environment and examines the roles and responsibilities of various occupations and the issues affecting the quality and form of health care in America. Economic, political, sociological, psychological, and ethical problems facing health care professionals will also be discussed.
No prerequisites.
BIO3050 Pathophysiology 3 semester hours
Integrates the pathological processes of disease with those of the “normal” functioning body. Cellular and organismal disease mechanisms are studied with reference to specific diseases, with opportunity to apply this learning to actual case studies.
Prerequisite: BIO2670.
BIO3080 Nutrition and Health Promotion 4 semester hours
How nutrition impacts the health of the individual will be investigated. A biochemical, cellular, and physiological approach to carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals and how the body responds to excess and deficiency of these foodstuffs will be addressed. Current topics include links between diet and various diseases; nutritional trends; weight management; food-borne illness; diet and exercise; how the diet affects arterial aging and the immune system; and nutrition myths and misinformation.
Prerequisites: BIO2670, CHM1200, or CHM1310 and CHM1320.
Meets General Education “Observation of the Natural World” requirement.
BIO3150 Invertebrate Biology 4 semester hours
This course provides an overview of the invertebrate animals beginning with sponges and ending with cephalochordates. Emphasis will be placed on identification of invertebrates, and descriptions of key characteristics and evolutionary innovations of the invertebrate phyla and classes using a comparative approach. Laboratory will involve field trips and making detailed comparisons among selected invertebrate types through behavioral observation, microscopy and dissection.
Prerequisite: BIO1220.
BIO3250 Vertebrate Biology 4 semester hours
This course provides an overview of the vertebrate animals beginning with fishes and ending with mammals. Emphasis will be placed on identification of vertebrates, and descriptions of key characteristics and evolutionary innovations of the vertebrate classes using a comparative approach. Laboratory will involve field trips and making detailed comparisons among selected vertebrate types through behavioral observation, microscopy and dissection.
Prerequisite: BIO1220.
BIO3260 Comparative Botany 4 semester hours
This course covers the basic structure and selected functions of flowering plants, adaptations to specific environmental factors, a comparison of the major plant groups from algae to angiosperms, and characteristics of selected families of higher plants. The interactions between humans and plants will be emphasized. The laboratory exercises include topics in plant morphology, reproduction, life cycles, identification, and research design.
Prerequisite: BIO1210.
Meets General Education “Observation of the Natural World” requirement.
BIO3270 Plant Physiology 4 semester hours
This course covers the functional and related structural aspects of the higher green plants. Topics include transport of water and nutrients; mineral requirements, including deficiency symptoms and availability from soil; photosynthesis; respiration; plant regulators; plant movements; and responses to light and temperature. Laboratory activities and a final project or projects are integrated into the lecture sections.
Prerequisite: BIO1210.
BIO3280 Microbiology 4 semester hours
This course covers microbial principles and techniques for application in other fields or as a first course in the advanced study of microbiology. Topics include the structure and life cycles of bacteria and viruses, characteristics of the major groups of bacteria, bacterial metabolism identification, selected microbial diseases and the multiple roles of bacteria. Laboratory exercises include staining techniques, bacterial and phage culture, control of microbes and identification of unknowns using metabolic and morphologic characteristics plus selected topics.
Prerequisite: BIO1210.
BIO3360 Biogerontology 4 semester hours
This course covers the modern biological aspects of aging. Students need to distinguish pathophysiological conditions from “normal aging” of the human body. The theory of aging and how nutrition, exercise, stress, and social interaction affects aging will be discussed.
Prerequisite: BIO2670.
BIO3370 Conservation Biology 3 semester hours
This course provides an introduction to conservation biology, and will focus on the earth’s biological diversity, threats to its biological diversity, how threats influence populations and species, and solutions to dealing with those threats.
Prerequisites: BIO1220 or BIO2200.
BIO/CHM3380 Biotechnology 3 semester hours
Introduction to theory and application of key laboratory techniques in the field of biotechnology. The course integrates “hands-on” learning of important techniques with concepts from the areas of biochemistry, microbiology, and genetics.
Prerequisites: CHM1320, BIO3400 or BIO3280.
BIO3400 Genetics 4 semester hours
This course includes both molecular and organismal genetics. The structure and functions of nucleic acids; gene action and regulation; and the principles of genetic engineering and cloning are covered as well as the inheritance of autosomal and sex-linked traits, gene interactions, eucaryote and bacterial genetics; and polygenic inheritance. The interactions of the field of genetics and society including ethical issues will also be addressed.
Prerequisites: MTH1100, BIO1210.
BIO3450 Advanced Cell Biology 4 semester hours
The integration of structure and function of living things on the cellular level. Topics include cell physiology, molecular biology, immunology, and developmental biology.
Prerequisites: BIO2670, BIO3400, CHM1320.
BIO3510 Ecology 4 semester hours
This course provides an introduction to ecology including examinations of an organism’s relationship to its environment, population ecology, community ecology, landscape ecology, and ecosystem ecology. In this course we will also explore the biodiversity in our region, perform small-scale experiments, and learn the process of inquiry by designing and conducting an ecological research project.
Prerequisite: BIO1220 or BIO2200.
BIO3520 Animal Behavior 3 semester hours
This course provides an introduction to animal behavior including overviews of proximate and ultimate causes of behavior, and detailed discussions of topics in behavioral ecology such as predation, foraging, habitat selection, mating, and social interactions.
Prerequisite: BIO1220.
BIO3530 Evolution 4 semester hours
This course provides an introduction to evolutionary biology including examinations of evidence for evolution, mechanisms of evolutionary change, adaptation, speciation, extinction, and history of life. In this course, we will also perform computer simulations and read primary literature articles on evolution.
Prerequisite: BIO1220.
BIO/CHM3550 Biochemistry 3 semester hours
Introduction to structure, properties, function, and metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids, emphasizing enzymology, bioenergetics, and metabolic regulation.
Prerequisite: CHM2410.
BIO3790 ACCA Affiliated Course 2-4 semester hours
Aurora University in collaboration with the other Associated Colleges of the Chicago Area (ACCA), the Shedd Aquarium, and Morton Arboretum offers a range of courses including lecture series, laboratory courses and field experiences which enrich our core curriculum. These will be offered as student interests and needs indicate.
Prerequisite: Consent of program chair.
BIO3820 Secondary Methods in Biology 4 semester hours
This course presents techniques that are effective in teaching in the content areas. The course includes lesson planning, classroom arrangement, curriculum design, alternative teaching strategies, and evaluation. In addition to the classroom hours there is a simultaneous practicum. This is usually the last course the student takes prior to student teaching.
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the College of Education including passing the Basic Skills Test, maintaining a GPA of 3.00, passing a background check, and EDU2200 and EDU2260. Placement applications for the practicum are due to the College of Education placement coordinator the January before the academic year of the practicum or for transfer students upon acceptance into the College of Education.
(Fall)
BIO3970 Research in Biology 1-4 semester hours
This course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to do biological research that has the potential to be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, and presented at a scientific meeting. Students will accomplish these goals by performing a supervised research project, and attending weekly seminars on how to conduct scientific research.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Please note:
The information listed on this page is current according to the 2006-2008 Undergraduate Catalog, unless otherwise noted.
±This information is additional information specific to the Web site, not provided in the Undergraduate Catalog.
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