Courses - Spring 2025
BSCI courses are offered by the Biological Science Program and individual College of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences departments, as indicated.
The sponsoring department for each course is provided in the course listing. Consult the sponsoring department if you have questions about an individual course (sponsoring departments BIOL - Department of Biology, 2227 Biol-Psyc Building; BSCI - Biological Sciences Program, 1322 Symons Hall; CBMG - Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, 1219 H.J. Patterson Building; ENTM - Entomology, 4112 PLS Building).
Registration in course sections which begin with "SES*" is restricted to students admitted into the Science in the Evening Program, administered through the Office of Extended Studies. For complete information, visit: http://oes.umd.edu/index.php?slab=sie, e-mail oes@umd.edu , or call 301-405-7762.
The following courses may involve the use of animals. Students who are concerned about the use of animals in teaching have the responsibility to consult the instructor prior to course enrollment to determine whether animals are to be used in the course, whether class exercises involving animals are optional or required, and what alternatives, if any, are available.
The College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences enforces course prerequisites. Students who do not meet the course prerequisites will be administratively dropped from the course.
BSCI103
The World of Biology
Additional information: Not acceptable for degree requirements in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, or Biochemistry.
An introduction to modern biology for the non-science major. Major themes include molecular biology, cell biology, evolution and organismal biology. Relevance of study of biology to modern human life will be emphasized.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI). Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI103M
The World of Biology
Additional information: Not acceptable for degree requirements in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, or Biochemistry.
An introduction to modern biology for the non-science major. Major themes include molecular biology, cell biology, evolution and organismal biology. Relevance of study of biology to modern human life will be emphasized.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI). Must be taken within 12 months of the semester in which BSCI 103 is taken. A student is eligible to take this course only if the lab scores received in BSCI 103 the last time it was taken totalled at least 80 percent of the maximum possible total. These scores will count for part of the grade in BSCI 103M.
BSCI120
Insects
A survey of the major groups of insects, their natural history, and their relationships with humans and their environment. Course not acceptable toward major requirements in Biological Sciences, Chemistry or Biochemistry.
(Sponsoring Dept.: ENTM).
BSCI135
Amazing Green: Plants that Transformed the World
In what profound ways have plants changed humanity and the world we live in today? An interactive way to learn about plants and science, focusing on how plants have changed human history, the biology of their growth, and the science behind their use.
(Sponsoring Dept: CBMG). Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI144
Credit only granted for: BSCI144 or BSCI145.
Could the ongoing global decline in insect populations portend the end of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems? An article in the New York Times, in 2018, declared an "Insect Apocalypse" that for the first time brought the unexplained declines in insects to the public and suggested a catastrophe awaits our planet. Scientists have documented the loss of insect species at a rate exceeding the extinction rates associated with the major geological events in Earth's history. Based on science and research, students will be provided with background, and discover on their own, the diversity of the form and functions of insects, as well as how they evolved and persisted for 400 million years. The course, designed for students of any major, celebrates the incredible variation of insect life and what they do to support life on our planet. The course will highlight the use of scientific research to understand and respond to the global crisis.
BSCI160
Principles of Ecology and Evolution
Prerequisite: Must have math eligibility of MATH120 or higher.
Recommended: For Science majors.
Credit only granted for: BSCI106 or BSCI160.
Formerly: BSCI106.
Basic principles of biology with special emphasis on ecological and evolutionary biology.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI).
BSCI161
Principles of Ecology and Evolution Lab
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
Prerequisite: Must have math eligibility of MATH120 or higher.
Corequisite: BSCI160.
Recommended: For Science majors.
Basic laboratory principles of biology with special emphasis on ecological and evolutionary biology.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI). Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI170
Principles of Molecular & Cellular Biology
Prerequisite: Must have math eligibility of MATH120 or higher.
Recommended: For Science majors.
Credit only granted for: BSCI105 or BSCI170.
Formerly: BSCI105.
Basic principles of biology with special emphasis on cellular and molecular biology.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI).
BSCI171
Principles of Molecular & Cellular Biology Laboratory
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
Prerequisite: Must have math eligibility of MATH120 or higher.
Corequisite: BSCI170.
Recommended: For Science majors.
Basic laboratory principles of biology with special emphasis on cellular and molecular biology.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI). Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI171S
Principles of Molecular & Cellular Biology Laboratory
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
Prerequisite: Must have math eligibility of MATH120 or higher.
Corequisite: BSCI170.
Recommended: For Science majors.
Basic laboratory principles of biology with special emphasis on cellular and molecular biology.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI). Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI201
Human Anatomy and Physiology I
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI170; or students who have taken courses with comparable content may contact the CMNS-Biology department.
Anatomy and physiology of the skeletal, muscular, neural, endocrine, and sensory systems. Course not acceptable toward major requirements in Biological Sciences, Chemistry or Biochemistry.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI202
Human Anatomy and Physiology II
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI201; or students who have taken courses with comparable content may contact the CMNS-Biology department.
Anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular, respiratory, immune, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Course not acceptable toward major requirements in Biological Sciences, Chemistry or Biochemistry.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI207
Principles of Biology III - Organismal Biology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI160 and BSCI161; or BSCI106. And BSCI170 and BSCI171; or BSCI105. And must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in CHEM131.
The diversity, structure and function of organisms as understood from the perspective of their common physicochemical principles and unique evolutionary histories.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI).
BSCI213
Credit only granted for: BSCI213 OR BSCI223.
How are microbes essential for human health yet cause so much disease? This course covers basic concepts in microbiology as they relate to human- microbe interactions by surveying the diversity of microbial life, the role our resident microbiota play in human health, modes of disease tracking, and prophylactic and therapeutic measures designed to control the spread of infectious disease.
BSCI222
Principles of Genetics
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: CHEM131 and CHEM132; and (BSCI160 and BSCI161; or BSCI106); and (BSCI170 and BSCI171; or BSCI105). Or must have completed BSCI105 or (BSCI170 and BSCI171); and two semesters of chemistry.
Principles and mechanisms of heredity and gene expression. Considers plant, animal, and microbial organisms.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI).
BSCI223
Prerequisite: BSCI170 and BSCI171; or BSCI105.
Credit only granted for: BSCI223 or BSCI283.
How have microorganisms exploited every conceivable ecological niche, and how have humans harnessed this diversity to improve medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology? The course covers fundamental concepts in morphology, physiology, genetics, immunology, ecology, and pathogenic microbiology. Applications of microbiology to medicine, the food industry, and biotechnology.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG) Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI258A
College Park Scholars Internship
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Restriction: For College Park Scholars - Life Sciences students only.
BSCI258B
College Park Scholars Internship
Credits:
2
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Restriction: For College Park Scholars - Life Sciences students only.
BSCI279
Supplemental Study; Supplemental Study in Biology
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL).
BSCI279B
Supplemental Study; BioFIRE Spring Colloquium
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Restricted to BioFire students.
BSCI279C
Supplemental Study; Catalyst Program Seminar
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
(Sponsoring Dept: BIOL). Recommended for first- and second-year students who have completed one semester of introductory biology or chemistry and are interested in engaging in life sciences undergraduate research. For permission to enroll, contact Kaci Thompson, kaci@umd.edu.
BSCI279H
Supplemental Study; Catalyst Program Seminar
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
(Sponsoring Dept: BIOL).
BSCI279P
Supplemental Study; Undergraduate Teaching Fellows Professional Development Seminar
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: permission of department.
BSCI279Q
Supplemental Study; Readings in Neurophysiology
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL).
BSCI279R
Supplemental Study; Undergraduate Research Rotation
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG).
BSCI279T
Supplemental Study; BSCI Learning Assistants
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
BSCI283
Prerequisite: BSCI222.
Restriction: Must be in a major within Biological Sciences; or permission of CMNS-Cell Biology & Molecular Genetics.
Credit only granted for: BSCI223 or BSCI283.
Additional information: Priority given to BSCI, BCHM and CHEM majors.
What makes microorganisms genetically, physiologically, and biochemically unique among organisms in the tree of life? An introduction to microorganisms designed for science majors. Genetic principles underlying microbial abilities; microbial structure-function relationships; metabolism, physiology, and ecology of microorganisms; interactions between microorganisms (including pathogens) and their hosts.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG). Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI289
Off-Campus Internship
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
S-F
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI). Provides credit for off-campus research internships. This credit counts as elective toward graduation, but does not satisfy any Biological Sciences degree requirements (For information about research credit that does count toward Biological Sciences contact the Biological Sciences Program, room 1322 Symons Hall). This requires that a contract form be filed with the Director of Undergraduate Research and Internship Programs, Room 1313 Symons Hall, prior to the internship. The contract must be finalized and signed by the research supervisor at the end of the semester before credit will be awarded.
BSCI329
Instructional Assistance Practicum
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Credit cannot be applied to the requirements of any Biological Sciences Major. Prerequiste: permission of department.
BSCI330
Cell Biology and Physiology
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in CHEM131 and CHEM132. And minimum grade of C- in BSCI170 and BSCI171; or minimum grade of C- in BSCI105.
Restriction: Must not have completed BSCI230.
Credit only granted for: BSCI230 or BSCI330.
Formerly: BSCI230.
Biochemical and physiological mechanisms underlying cellular function. Properties of cells which make life possible and mechanisms by which cells provide energy, reproduce, and regulate and integrate with each other and their environment.
(Sponsoring Dept: BIOL). Specialization Areas: PHNB, CEBG, MICB, ECEV, and GENB. Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI334
Mammalogy
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI207. And minimum grade of C- in BSCI160 and BSCI161; or minimum grade of C- in BSCI106.
Introduction to the biology of mammals, including evolution, physiological, and behavioral specializations.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB and ECEV.
BSCI335
Mammalogy Laboratory
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI160 and BSCI161; or minimum grade of C- in BSCI106. And minimum grade of C- in BSCI207; and must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in BSCI334.
Lab and field techniques for the study of mammals, focusing on their identification, anatomy, histology, spatial distribution, ecology, and behavior.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences specialization areas: ECEV and GENB. Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI337
Biology of Insects
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI160 and BSCI161; or BSCI106; or permission of CMNS-Entomology department.
An overview of the biology, evolution and diversity of insects and their relatives. Insect morphology, physiology, behavior and ecology; the impact of insects on humanity and the management of pest insect populations; assembly of an insect collection is required.
(Sponsoring Dept.: ENTM). Specialization Areas: GENB and ECEV. Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI338E
Special Topics in Biology; Neuroethology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisites: BSCI160, BSCI161, and BSCI353.
Basic principles of neurobiology with special emphasis on behavior and evolution.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Applicable towards Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology) and PHNB.
Basic principles of neurobiology with special emphasis on behavior and evolution.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Applicable towards Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology) and PHNB.
BSCI338F
Special Topics in Biology; iGEM Research Seminar
Credits:
2
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Restriction: Permission of instructor. Also offered as BIOE389F. Credit grandted for BSCI338F or BIOE389F.
This course is open to iGEM team members to develop a synthetic biology research project for the internatial Genetically Engineered Machines competition.
This course is open to iGEM team members to develop a synthetic biology research project for the internatial Genetically Engineered Machines competition.
BSCI338Z
Special Topics in Biology; Field Research
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept: BIOL). Cannot be used as credit toward the major requirements for any Biological Sciences major. Contact the Biology Department Undergraduate Office for course information.
BSCI339Z
Selected Topics in Biology; Cell Death and Cancer Research Seminar
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
BSCI343
Cellular Mechanisms of Aging and Disease
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI330.
Credit only granted for: BSCI339I or BSCI343.
Formerly: BSCI339I.
Explore how alterations in normal cellular and molecular processes lead to both aging and a variety of non-infectious human diseases currently plaguing our society. Students will read, analyze, and discuss current primary and secondary literature in the field of cell biology and biomedicine.
BSCI348
Special Topics in Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG). May be repeated, but only 3 credits may be applied to major requirements.
BSCI348A
Special Topics in Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics; Scientific Teaching Internship
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG).
Students will act as Undergraduate Teaching Assistants for BSCI223. Prerequisite: A or B in BSCI223 and permission of instructor. Student must be available for one of the BSCI223 lab periods. Students interested in this teaching/leadership opportunity should contact Dr. John Buchner for application information: JBuchner@umd.edu. This course is applicable for the Enrichment credits required of all Biological Sciences students in majors with 0404 codes. For others this is elective credit.
Students will act as Undergraduate Teaching Assistants for BSCI223. Prerequisite: A or B in BSCI223 and permission of instructor. Student must be available for one of the BSCI223 lab periods. Students interested in this teaching/leadership opportunity should contact Dr. John Buchner for application information: JBuchner@umd.edu. This course is applicable for the Enrichment credits required of all Biological Sciences students in majors with 0404 codes. For others this is elective credit.
BSCI348R
Special Topics in Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics; Microbiology Internship
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG).
This course is an opportunity for students interested in microbiology to pursue a research project in an off-campus lab. The student must see the instructor and complete an information sheet found on the web site, prior to enrolling in the course.
This course is an opportunity for students interested in microbiology to pursue a research project in an off-campus lab. The student must see the instructor and complete an information sheet found on the web site, prior to enrolling in the course.
BSCI353
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Earning C- or higher in NEUR200 or BSCI330.
Corequisite: Must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in PHYS132 or equivalent course.
Cross-listed with: NEUR306.
Credit only granted for: NEUR306 or BSCI353.
Students will gain an appreciation of neuroscience as the nexus of chemistry, physics, and biology. Additionally, they will gain an understanding of how: both individual and networks of neurons function as variable electrical circuits; our nervous systems transduce signals from the outside world and sets-off molecular cascades; the behavior of a neuron can be changed and or remain the same in response to changing variables. Techniques used to study the nervous system at a cellular and molecular level will be discussed.
(Sponsoring Dept: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences specialization areas: CEBG, GENB, and PHNB.
BSCI358A
Special Topics in Biological Sciences at Shady Grove; Physiology of Pain and Evidence-based CAM
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
An exploration of the basic physiology of pain and chronic pain disorders, how these conditions are treated allopathically, and the various philosophies, practitioners, techniques, and evidence of efficacy of complementary and alternative modalities (CAM) therapeutics currently in use in the United States to treat chronic pain disorders. A discussion of the societal impacts of chronic pain will also be explored.
Restrictions: Restricted to Biological Sciences Majors at Shady Grove. Does not count towards Biology major requirements.
Restrictions: Restricted to Biological Sciences Majors at Shady Grove. Does not count towards Biology major requirements.
BSCI358B
Special Topics in Biological Sciences at Shady Grove; Biotechnological and Biomedical Approaches in Global Health
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Examines how new biotechnologies and/or biomedical approaches and innovations can be used to address major global health challenges and programs. Students will be introduced to the worlds vast diversity of determinants of health and disease, as well as the various contributing factors of global and community health and will apply their understanding of biotechnology/biomedicine to solve real world problems facing public health officials today.
Restrictions: Restricted to Biological Sciences Majors at Shady Grove. Does not count towards Biology major requirements.
Restrictions: Restricted to Biological Sciences Majors at Shady Grove. Does not count towards Biology major requirements.
BSCI358C
Special Topics in Biological Sciences at Shady Grove; Bioethics of Biotechnology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
From agricultural technologies such as genetically engineered corn/rice with betacarotene to optimize vitamin A synthesis, to the use of CRISPR to edit genes of interest in animal and human embryos, biotechnological breakthroughs often raise ethical concerns that need to be examined and addressed. This course will explore how philosophical concepts/theories and social policies can be used to study and reflect on some of the complex ethical issues in emerging biotechnological research.
Restrictions: Restricted to Biological Sciences Majors at Shady Grove. Does not count towards Biology major requirements.
Restrictions: Restricted to Biological Sciences Majors at Shady Grove. Does not count towards Biology major requirements.
BSCI361
Principles of Ecology
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
Prerequisite: BSCI160 and BSCI161; or BSCI106. And (MATH130, MATH136, or MATH140).
Basic principles of population, community, and ecosystem ecology. Use of these principles to predict possible consequences of human-caused changes in the environment and to understand the level of uncertainty of those predictions.
(Sponsoring Dep.: ENTM). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: ECEV and GENB.
BSCI378H
Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics Department Honors Seminar
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
Required seminar for all students participating in departmental honors research program.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG).
Corequisite: BSCI379H. Restricted to students participating in the CBMG Departmental Honors Program.
Corequisite: BSCI379H. Restricted to students participating in the CBMG Departmental Honors Program.
BSCI379G
Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics Department Research; Research in Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, Aud
Prequisite: permission of department. See CBMG department Undergraduate office.
(Sponsoring Dept: CBMG).
(Sponsoring Dept: CBMG).
BSCI379H
Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics Department Honors Research
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg
Student should consult program guidelines. Research project carried out under guidance of faculty advisor.
Corequisite: BSCI378H. Restricted to students participating in the CBMG Departmental Honors Program.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG).
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG).
BSCI379L
Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics Department Research; Lab Research
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, Aud
Any combination of 3 credits of BSCI379G, BSCI379L, and BSCI379H can be used to satisfy the enrichment requirement in CEBG, ECEV, MICB, or PHNB or an upper-level elective in GENB. Students must have successfully completed at least one semester in a Cell Biology & Molecular Genetics department research lab before getting permission to take BSCI379L in the same lab. Students completing at least 4 credits of laboratory research including at least one semester taking BSCI379L may substitute this experience for one of the two upper-level laboratory courses required to complete any BSCI major.
BSCI389
Entomology Department Research
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept.: ENTM).
BSCI389H
Entomology Department Research; Honors Research
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg
(Sponsoring Dept.: ENTM).
BSCI389L
Entomology Department Research; Lab Research
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
(Sponsoring Dept: ENTM)
BSCI398H
Biology Department Honors Seminar
Credits:
1
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Required seminar for all students participating in departmental honors research program.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Prerequisite: permission of department.
BSCI399
Biology Department Research; Biology Department Research
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg
(Sponsoring Dept: BIOL)
BSCI399H
Biology Department Honors Research
Credits:
1 - 2
Grad Meth:
Reg
A laboratory research problem; required each semester during honors participation and culminating in an honors thesis.
(Sponsoring Dept: BIOL).
BSCI399L
Biology Department Research; Biology Lab Research
Credits:
1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg
BSCI401
Animal Communication
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI160 and BSCI161; or BSCI106. And must have completed one semester of physics; and must have completed one semester of organic chemistry.
Recommended: A course in animal behavior or biopsychology.
Credit only granted for: BSCI401, BSCI338W or BIOL708W.
Formerly: BSCI338W.
Examining the mechanisms by which animal produce and receive signals in each sensory modality; and quantifying the type and amount of information conveyed in signals and how animals attend to such information.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences specialization Areas: ECEV, GENB (Ecology, Behavioral & Organismal category), and PHNB.
Credit only granted for BSCI401, BSCI338W, or BIOL708W.
Examining the mechanisms by which animals produce and receive signals in each sensory modality; and quantifying the type and amount of information conveyed in signals and how animals attend to such information.
Credit only granted for BSCI401, BSCI338W, or BIOL708W.
Examining the mechanisms by which animals produce and receive signals in each sensory modality; and quantifying the type and amount of information conveyed in signals and how animals attend to such information.
BSCI403
Biology of Vision
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI207, NEUR306, or BSCI353.
Recommended: BSCI222.
An upper level undergraduate course on the physical, molecular, and neural basis of vision.
Credit will be only granted for BIOL709V or BSCI403. (Sponsoring Dept: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences specialization areas: ECEV, GENB (Ecology, Behavioral & Organismal category), and PHNB.
BSCI410
Molecular Genetics
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI222. And must have completed CHEM233; or (CHEM231 and CHEM232).
An advanced genetics course emphasizing the molecular basis of gene structure and function in the context of modern approaches to the genetics of humans and model organisms.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences specialization areas: PHNB, CEBG, GENB and ECEV.
BSCI412
Microbial Genetics
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI222; and (BSCI223 or BSCI283).
A laboratory/lecture based course that covers the fundamentals of mutation, mobile genetic elements and transmission genetics of microbial organisms using both classical and molecular approaches.
(Sponsoring Dept: CBMG). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: MICB, CEBG, and GENB. Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI416
Human Genetics
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI410.
Recommended: BSCI330.
Approaches to human genetics and applications to biology and medicine focusing on specific human genetic topics using primary research papers as the main resource.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG).
BSCI417
Microbial Pathogenesis
Prerequisite: BSCI222; and (BSCI223 or BSCI283).
Restriction: Junior standing or higher.
Current research in microbial pathogenesis and the molecular and cellular basis of bacterial disease. Comprehensive overview of the molecular basis of pathogenesis with a focus on model microbial systems to illustrate mechanisms of disease pathogenesis. Topics covered: how microorganisms attach to and enter cells; how host cells are damaged by microbial products; how the host responds to invasion; and host-pathogen evolution.
BSCI420
Cell Biology Lectures
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI330, BSCI222, CHEM231, and CHEM232.
Credit only granted for: BSCI420 or BSCI421.
Molecular and biochemical bases of cellular organization and function in eukaryotes.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: PHNB, CEBG, and GENB.
BSCI422
Principles of Immunology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
Prerequisite: BSCI222.
Recommended: BSCI330; and (BSCI223 or BSCI283).
Restriction: Junior standing or higher.
The immune system in health and disease. Presentation and analysis of the cellular and molecular processes that comprise the immune system.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CMBG). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: PHNB, MICB, CEBG, and GENB. Jointly offered with C BMG699W.
BSCI423
Immunology Laboratory
Credits:
2
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
Prerequisite: BSCI222.
Corequisite: BSCI422.
Recommended: BSCI223 or BSCI283.
Restriction: Junior standing or higher.
Current techniques for assessment of immune status and evaluation of the immune response, including monoclonal antibody production, Western blotting, cytokine assays, ELISA and flow cytometry.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas:PHNB, MICB, CEBG and GENB. Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI425
Advanced Cell Biology Lab Practices
Credits:
2
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F
Prerequisite: Must have completed BSCI330, BSCI222, CHEM231, and CHEM232; and must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in BSCI420.
Credit only granted for: BSCI421, BSCI425, or BSCI348C.
Experimental techniques used to study the molecular, structural, and spatial organization of plant and animal cells. Using a combination of in vitro assays aimed at analyzing macromolecular and subcellular components and in vivo analyses designed to reveal the inner architecture of a typical eukaryotic cell, students will have an opportunity to: improve some of the basic technical and conceptual skills they acquired in an introductory cell biology course; develop a more sophisticated understanding of the nature of experimental cell manipulation; and tackle the ongoing challenge of articulating their findings in both written and oral communication.
(Sponsoring Dept: CBMG. Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI426
Global Change Biology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI207.
Recommended: BSCI361 and BSCI370.
Explore the biology of past, present and future global change and its impacts on the diversity of life. Focus on mechanisms of global change; organismal responses to that change, examples of past change, estimates of future change, and approaches to mitigation.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable towards Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: ECEV and GENB (Ecology, Behavioral & Organismal category).
BSCI430
Developmental Biology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI222 and BSCI330.
Structural, functional and regulatory events and mechanisms that operate during development to produce an integrated, multicellular organism composed of a multitude of differentiated cell types.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: CEBG(Cell Biology), ECEV, GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology) and PHNB
BSCI433
Biology of Cancer
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI222 and BSCI330; or permission of CMNS-Biological Sciences UG Program.
Causes and consequences of neoplastic transformations at the biochemical and cellular levels.
BSCI435
Quantitative and Computational Biosciences
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Basic coding knowledge; and a minimum grade of C- in MATH136 or MATH140; and BSCI160, BSCI170 or BIOE120; or permission of the instructor.
Restriction: Junior standing or higher.
Establishes quantitative principles of how living systems work across scales from cells to organisms to populations while connecting mechanisms, models, and measurements. Traditional lectures are combined with computational modules available in Python, R, and MATLAB to help interdisciplinary students from physics, engineering, mathematics, computing, and the life sciences move from learning in the classroom to doing research in practice.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL) Applies as an upper-level laboratory course to Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: CEBG, ECEV, GENB, and PHNB. Students must pay a $40.00 lab fee.
BSCI436
RNA Biology and Therapeutics
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI330.
Recommended: BSCI410.
Restriction: Must have junior standing or higher.
The prediction of RNA structure from its sequence, and how the many types of cellular and viral RNAs function in and regulate cellular processes. Use of RNA-based drugs for controlling disease through RNA targeting, editing and vaccines.
BSCI437
General Virology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI222; or permission of CMNS-Biological Sciences UG Program.
Restriction: Junior standing or higher.
Discussion of the physical and chemical nature of viruses, virus cultivation and assay methods, virus replication, viral diseases with emphasis on the oncogenic viruses, viral genetics, and characteristics of the major virus groups.
(Sponsoring Dept.: CBMG). Specialization Areas: MICB, CEBG, and GENB.
BSCI439A
Undergraduate Advanced Selected Topics in Biology; Invertebrate Biology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: C- or better in BSCI207. Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: ECEV and GENB (Ecology, Behavior & Organismal category).
Overview of the biology of invertebrate animals, with emphasis on freshwater and marine invertebrates. The focus will be on the functional biology of invertebrates including comparative morphology, feeding, locomotion, respiration, salt balance, defense, control systems, behavior, life history, and reproduction.
Overview of the biology of invertebrate animals, with emphasis on freshwater and marine invertebrates. The focus will be on the functional biology of invertebrates including comparative morphology, feeding, locomotion, respiration, salt balance, defense, control systems, behavior, life history, and reproduction.
BSCI439D
Undergraduate Advanced Selected Topics in Biology; Physiology of Obesity
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisites: Students must have earned a C- or better in BSCI330. (Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology category) and PHNB.
This course explores the complex interplay between hormones, behavior, and obesity, providing a comprehensive understanding of the physiological mechanisms that regulate body weight and metabolic homeostasis. Topics to be covered include: a survey of the array of redundant endocrine controls affecting appetite and food utilization andtheir pleiotropic effects; the general metabolic syndrome; insulin and leptin resistance; circadian rhythm and sleep dysfunction, clock genes and melatonin effects on insulin, diabetes and obesity; brown fat and thermogenesis; the biology underlying new diabetes and weight loss drugs; why bariatricsurgery is a surprisingly effective means of escaping the obesity trap. The course is a combination lecture/seminar format; students have the opportunity to investigate course-related topics of interest in primary source material and class discussions.
This course explores the complex interplay between hormones, behavior, and obesity, providing a comprehensive understanding of the physiological mechanisms that regulate body weight and metabolic homeostasis. Topics to be covered include: a survey of the array of redundant endocrine controls affecting appetite and food utilization andtheir pleiotropic effects; the general metabolic syndrome; insulin and leptin resistance; circadian rhythm and sleep dysfunction, clock genes and melatonin effects on insulin, diabetes and obesity; brown fat and thermogenesis; the biology underlying new diabetes and weight loss drugs; why bariatricsurgery is a surprisingly effective means of escaping the obesity trap. The course is a combination lecture/seminar format; students have the opportunity to investigate course-related topics of interest in primary source material and class discussions.
BSCI442
Plant Physiology
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI170 and BSCI171; or minimum grade of C- in PLSC201; and minimum grade of C- in CHEM231 and CHEM232; or minimum grade of C- in CHEM237.
Cross-listed with: PLSC400.
Credit only granted for: BSCI442 or PLSC400.
An in-depth examination of the unique molecular and physiological principles necessary to understand how plants grow and respond to the environment at the cellular and organismal levels. Plants evolved unique metabolism and survival strategies, so students should be prepared to enter a world that may be new to them.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BSCI) Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI446
Advanced Systems Neuroscience
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI353 or NEUR306.
Neural development, neurobiology of sensation and perception, motor and integrative systems organization in the central nervous system. Neural systems dysfunction as related to medical pathologies and discussion of contemporary neuroscience methods used to understand brain function.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL) Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Program Specialization Areas: PHNB, and GENB.
BSCI450
Mammalian Systems Physiology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI330; and minimum grade of C- in CHEM233 or both CHEM231 and CHEM232.
Credit only granted for: BIOL708M, BSCI338L, BSCI440, or BSCI450.
A study of the cardiovascular, hemopoietic, gastrointestinal, renal, and respiratory systems. Chemical and endocrine regulation of physiological functions in mammals.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology category) and PHNB.
BSCI451
Mammalian Systems Physiology Laboratory
Credits:
2
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Must have completed with a minimum of C- or be concurrently enrolled in either BSCI440 or BSCI450.
Credit only granted for: BSCI441 or BSCI451.
Formerly: BSCI441.
Laboratory exercises in experimental mammalian physiology.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology category) and PHNB. Students must pay a $40.00 laboratory materials fee.
BSCI452
Diseases of the Nervous System
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI330; and must have completed with a minimum of C- or be concurrently enrolled in either BSCI353 or NEUR306.
Credit only granted for: BSCI452, BIOL708E, or NACS728N.
An advanced course covering the neuroanatomy, function, and organization of the nervous system and its implication for pathology and disease.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology category) and PHNB.
BSCI453
Biology of Hearing
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI207 or NEUR200.
Recommended: BSCI353 or NEUR306.
Acoustic and neural basis of hearing. The auditory system will be described with a comparative approach across species.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology category) and PHNB.
BSCI455
Neuroscience Laboratory
Prerequisite: NEUR306 or BSCI353; and PHYS132.
Recommended: NEUR305.
Cross-listed with: NEUR405.
Credit only granted for: PSYC401, NEUR405, BSCI455 or BSCI454.
Students will utilize neurophysiological techniques to examine fundamental principles of neurons and neural circuits. This course will reinforce content from prerequisite NEUR courses. Students will also strengthen skills in experimental design and scientific writing.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: CEBG (Cell Biology), GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology), and PHNB. Students must pay a $40.00 lab fee.
BSCI456
Advanced Cellular Neuroscience
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI353 or NEUR306.
Recommended: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI440 or another upper-level neuroscience course.
Restriction: Permission of CMNS-Biology department.
Jointly offered with: NACS644.
Credit only granted for: BSCI339X, BSCI456, or NACS644.
Formerly: BSCI339X.
Readings and discussion in cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic structure/function relationships, synaptic potentiation/depression, dendritic integration, homeostatic plasticity, and nervous system development including neurogenesis, axon guidance, synaptogenesis, and activity-dependent development among other topics.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: GENB (Cell Biology, Development, Physiology category) and PHNB.
BSCI462
Population Ecology
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: MATH130, MATH136, or MATH140; and BSCI361.
Theory of population growth and regulation, life tables, and theory of competition and predation, evolution in ecological settings, community structure and dynamics.
Credit only granted for BSCI462 and BIOL708R. (Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: ECEV and GENB (Ecology, Behavioral & Organismal category).
BSCI476
Evolutionary Genomics
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in BSCI222.
Recommended: BSCI370.
Credit only granted for: BSCI476 or BIOL708C.
Application of genomics to understanding evolutionary processes, including genome evolution, organismal evolution, genomic diversity across the tree of life, human evolution and disease. Relevant concepts of evolutionary genetics and genome biology will be covered.
BSCI477
Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Disease
Credits:
3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: C- or better in either BSCI370 or BSCI361 and either MATH136 or MATH140.
Credit only granted for: BSCI477 or BIOL708D.
Parasites are a ubiquitous feature of ecological communities, and can strongly impact population growth, extinction risk, community structure and biodiversity, as well as pose serious risks to human health and food security. This course will cover basic principles of disease ecology, including; the diversity of parasitic organisms and transmission modes, host and pathogen traits for defense and infection, mathematical models of disease spread, the impacts of disease at different ecological scales, and host-parasite co-evolution. In the latter half of the course we will apply these basic concepts to current real-world problems in disease ecology including emerging infectious diseases in humans, wildlife and agriculture. We will use examples from plants, animals and humans to about an equal degree. This course will have a strong quantitative focus, and completion of the math series is recommended.
(Sponsoring Dept.: BIOL). Acceptable toward Biological Sciences Specialization Areas: ECEV and GENB (Ecology, Behavioral & Organismal category).
BSCI487
IPM: Science-Based Decision Making for Sustainable Pest Management
Credits:
4
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: BSCI160 and BSCI161.
Restriction: Must have earned a minimum of 90 credits.
Credit only granted for: BSCI487 or ENTM609.
Long-term global food security requires a sustainable increase in agricultural productivity to ensure the availability and accessibility of safe and nutritious food. Agricultural pests reduce global food production and threaten its sustainability. This course explores sustainable pest management in agroecosystems using the integrated pest management (IPM) paradigm. IPM is an ecosystem-based strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests or their damage through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties. Pesticides are used only after monitoring indicates they are needed according to established guidelines, and treatments are made with the goal of removing only the target organism. Pest control materials are selected and applied in a manner that minimizes risks to human health, beneficial and non-target organisms, and the environment.
(Sponsoring Dept.: ENTM). Acceptable toward Biological Specialization Areas: ECEV and GENB (Ecology, Behavior & Organismal category.
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University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
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