BIOL 100 General Principles of Biology (4 credits)
The biological principles at the cellular and organismal levels are discussed. The topics covered include cell structure, respiration, photosynthesis, osmosis, enzymes, DNA and protein synthesis, genetics, ecology, and evolution. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour lab weekly.
BIOL 122 General Biology II (4 credits)
This course is a survey of the major groups of organisms, their morphology, physiology, evolution and ecology. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory weekly.
BIOL 327 Wetlands Ecology (4 credits)
This course is an examination of the composition, structure, function and value of wetland ecosystems in North America. The course constitutes a comparative analysis of characteristic biota and adaptations, hydrological and geochemical processes, and conservation strategies of wetlands through lecture, discussion, field work and direct experimentation. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory weekly.
BIOL 423 Invasion Ecology (4 credits)
Invasion Ecology will introduce you to “Biological Pollution” and examine the properties of invasive species and invaded communities, heavily relying on case studies as illustration. We will review examples of different organisms—microbes, vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants—and how they alter ecosystems, endanger public health, local economies, and traditional cultures. The laboratory will investigate local invasions in MA and reinforce scientific data gathering, analysis, and writing.
Invasion Ecology will introduce you to “Biological Pollution” and examine the properties of invasive species and invaded communities, heavily relying on case studies as illustration. We will review examples of different organisms—microbes, vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants—and how they alter ecosystems, endanger public health, local economies, and traditional cultures. The laboratory will investigate local invasions in MA and reinforce scientific data gathering, analysis, and writing.
BIOL 490 Topics in Ecology: Endangered Species (1 credit)
This course will focus on the ecological and anthropogenic factors leading to the designation of species as vulnerable, threatened, or endangered, as well as strategies for their recovery. Topics to be explored include historic and contemporary extinction rates; why are species rare and what risks are faced by small populations; policy, legislation and regulations: international, national, and state provisions.
