Students study vertebrate evolution by analyzing the anatomical and embryological similarities and differences of representatives of the major taxonomic groups. Laboratory work consists of dissection of selected organisms. BIO 206 Genetics 4 cr. All of the aspects of modern genetics are covered in detail in this class. Discussion starts with the structure and function of DNA and moves through all the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels of inheritance.
Students work with drosophila, plant, and microbial genetics in the laboratory.
In addition, students study genetic simulations on the computer. One year of college biology or by advisement. BIO 207 General Ecology 4 cr. An introduction to the history, scope, and theory of ecology is presented in this class. Basic principles of the ecosystem, biogeochemical cycles, thermodynamics, population dynamics, habitat, and applied ecology are studied.