B.S. in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Major requirements
Required semester hours: 42 sh
Course requirements
Prerequisites and supporting courses
CHEM 1150, CHEM 1160, CHEM 2310, CHEM 2320, CHEM 3330; PHEN 1110 or PHEN 1210
Required core courses
- BIOL 1260, BIOL 2910, BIOL 3050, BIOL 3210, BIOL 3230, BIOL 3290, BIOL 4901
- Upper division Biology credit: 20 sh (courses numbered 2100 or above). Must include two courses from Group A, one from Group B, and 4 sh from either BIOL 4930 or BIOL 4970.
- Group A: BIOL 3140, BIOL 3510, BIOL 3610, BIOL 3620, BIOL 2930, BIOL 4950-Molecular Biology Techniques in Field Biology
- Group B: BIOL 2270, BIOL 2280 (both courses recommended)
Note: Students are advised to take MATH 1510 and BIOL 3010
GE Designates a course that fulfills all or part of a Core Curriculum requirement; see the Core Curriculum Program section of the catalog for more information.
BIOL 1160 Microbes and Society (2 sh) GE
This course will focus on the importance of microbes in our world. Their role in disease, decomposition, biotechnology and products for health will be emphasized. The laboratory will concentrate on microbial identification, role in food production and spoilage, and problem-solving ability.
BIOL 1170 Survey of the Human Body (2 sh) GE
Provides an overview of the scientific study of the human body, focusing on development of metacognitive skills and foundational skills, and introducing terminology associated with the human body. The laboratory will concentrate on basic laboratory procedures and problem-solving ability.
BIOL 1180 Introduction to Environmental Science (2 sh) GE
Survey of fundamental ecological principles supporting human society, examination of the effect human beings have on the earth’s support system and the other living things with which humans share the earth. The role of values and ethical implications of environmental decision-making. Field trips to a variety of urban support systems: water purification, waste treatment, solid waste management. Lab included.
BIOL 1250 Introduction to Human Anatomy (4 sh) GE
Includes structure and organization of human organ systems emphasizing skeletal, muscular, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous, and urogenital systems. Lab included with cadaver demonstrations. It is recommended that the student complete one year of high school laboratory science.
BIOL 1260 Introduction to Cell Biology (4 sh) GE
Includes cell systems, cell cycles, cell function, energy production and metabolic systems, biological control systems, protein synthesis, and genetics. Lab included. It is recommended that the student complete one year of high school laboratory science.
BIOL 1901 STEM Scholars Experience (0 sh)
STEM Scholars Experience is the course experience for the NSF S-STEM cohort. The course will immerse students in industry as a learning cohort guided closely by faculty to expand job pathways for students into STEM fields. It is expected to foster strong connections with industry through twice-a-month faculty-guided excursions to companies or on- campus visits from them that will be leveraged for internships, undergraduate research opportunities, class project reviews, job skills development, and student industry familiarization.
BIOL 2100 Topics in Biology (2 sh)
Selected topics in biology covered on a rotating basis. Lab included with some topics. Some topics will have prerequisites (see annual class schedule).
BIOL 2110 Economic Botany (2 sh) GE
Influence of plants on human, economic, social, and political history, and the plants people have chosen to protect and cultivate. Numerous field trips include plant production facilities, bakery, commercial greenhouse, apple orchard, farm, and meetings with resource persons working with cultivated plants. Overnight field trip(s) and weekly lab included.
BIOL 2130 Urban Wildlife Ecology (4 sh)
This course focuses on issues relating to the vertebrates that have chosen to live in human-dominated urban areas. We will explore real issues and concepts including the impact of habitat fragmentation and modification, synanthropy, and issues such as the predator paradox and population management. Site visits frame opportunities for active engagement.
BIOL 2140 Field Studies in Biology (2 or 4 sh) GE
Experiential trip courses offered on a rotating basis. Past examples include “Ecology of the Boreal Forest”, “Prairie and Ranch Resources”, and “Ecology of Iceland.” Variable fees over and above tuition will be assessed to cover the cost of travel. Travel documents such as passport/visa may be required.
BIOL 2155 Culture and Ecology of Asia (4 sh) GE
The course is designed to provide students an experiential learning opportunity about the ecology and culture and their interaction in a selected country of Asia. Special focus will be placed on how culture developed in adaptation to the local ecosystem and the environmental issues that the local population currently faces. Interaction with local scholars, experts, and students will provide perspectives. This course includes a mandatory trip. During the trip, students are required to participate in observation, discussions and related activities. A course trip fee over and above tuition will be assessed. Valid passport is required.
BIOL 2270 Introduction to Zoology (4 sh) GE
Survey of major animal phyla. Relationships between structure and function. Emphasis on the diversity of animal forms. Relationships of organisms with each other and with their environment. Lab included. Writing research course. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250 or 1260.
BIOL 2280 Introduction to Botany (4 sh) GE
Survey of the plant kingdom and related organisms from algae to flowering plants. Identification of campus Vascular plants. Basic life processes including photosynthesis, plant development, reproductive cycles, flowering and fruiting responses, and the ecological importance and conservation of plants. A WR emphasis with research term paper, experimental lab write-up and career development components. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250 or BIOL 1260.
BIOL 2350 Introduction to Human Disease (2 sh)
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a basic understanding of the general principles of disease, as well as specific disease processes of body systems and individual organs. Previously learned concepts from courses in anatomy and physiology provide the foundation for investigating pathophysiological mechanisms. Concepts learned in this course are basic to those interested in a career in a health care setting.
BIOL 2360 Medical Terminology (2 sh)
This course utilizes a programmed learning text/workbook to present a broad vocabulary base in medical terminology while developing the skills needed to “decode” newly encountered technical terms. Classwork is supported and extended through the use of online modules allowing individual pacing. Medical terminology is required or recommended for many health professions including pre-medicine, occupational and physical therapy, physician’s assistant, athletic training, and nursing.
BIOL 2910 Microbiology (4 sh)
Selected aspects of bacteria, viral and eukaryotic parasite morphology, identification, physiology, and lifecycles, with a focus on how microbes affect human health, society and the environment. Includes an overview of the immune system’s function, dysfunction, and modulation. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 1260.
BIOL 2400 Geospatial Technology (4 sh)
Introduction to the application of geospatial technology. We will use the industry standard programs from ESRI, ArcGIS Pro, Survey1,2,3, and ArcMap. We will tailor the course to students’ fields by focusing assignments on data sets (such as the U.S. Census) related to their programs of study. We will apply geovisualization (such as 3D mapping) to that data to do critical thinking and problem solving in their fields. Students will create web and smartphone map applications in order to share their results with the broader class and their departments.
BIOL 2930 Advanced Human Physiology (4 sh)
Structure and function of the nervous, circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, muscular, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems of the body. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250 and BIOL 1260.
BIOL 2950 Medical Parasitology (2 sh)
This course emphasizes the geography, life cycles, clinical presentations and impact of parasitic diseases on global health. Protozoans, nematodes, trematodes, cestodes and arthropods will be covered. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250, BIOL 2910.
BIOL 3010 Ethics in Biology (2 sh) GE
An overview of how we make ethical decisions in the field of biology. Coursework includes overviews of several ethical frameworks, but focuses on discussing and writing about of biological topics within the expertise of the Biology faculty (e.g. genetic technologies, medical research and treatment, stewardship of environmental resources, etc). A science background is not required, but will be helpful for in-depth analysis. Student literature research and analysis of a real- world situation will culminate in a final paper and presentation. Does not count toward Biology department major/minor credit.
BIOL 3050 Biotechnology (4 sh)
This course provides broad biotechnology skills and principles as well as their applications in a variety of research, clinical and industrial areas. Topics covered include electrophoresis, chromatography, macromolecule purification, cloning, basic genetic engineering, DNA and protein manipulation, purification/separation techniques, quantitative PCR and computational analyses. This course emphasizes basic laboratory skills essential for biotech industry employment and advanced research skills. Topics and laboratories will be constantly updated to introduce the new development of the field. Prerequisite: BIOL 1260, BIOL 2910, CHEM 1160.
BIOL 3140 Histology (4 sh)
Micro-anatomy of vertebrate tissues with emphasis on mammals. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250, BIOL 1260.
BIOL 3150 Biodiversity and Evolution (4 sh)
This course examines the efforts to understand biological origins and diversity. Patterns and principles of biodiversity and the significance of diversity will be considered. Emphasis will be placed on the principles and process of evolution rather than on the products of evolution. The class will include lecture, discussion, and workshop elements. Pre-requisite: BIOL 2270 or BIOL 2280.
BIOL 3160 Exercise Physiology (4 sh)
Study of human anatomy and physiology with emphasis on neuromuscular and cardiorespiratory systems, stressing the effects of exercise on those systems. Lab included. Cross-listed with EXS 3160. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250.
BIOL 3170 Native Wildflowers, Trees and Shrubs of the Great Lakes Region (4 sh)
A survey of the native spring wildflowers, common trees and shrubs of the Great Lakes Region. Particular attention will be given to the use of taxonomic keys and field guides in field identification as well as information on the general ecology of each species. Weekly field trips to local and regional forest preserves, natural areas and a weekend field trip to southern Illinois will be required. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 1280 or BIOL 2280.
BIOL 3180 Ecology (4 sh)
Study of living and non-living factors in biotic communities and their interaction in controlling the structure and development of various ecosystems. Principles of succession, population dynamics, and conservation. Supplemental overnight trips included. Lab included. Co-requisite: BIOL 2270 or BIOL 2280.
BIOL 3190 Ethology (Animal Behavior) (4 sh)
An introduction to the study of ethology (animal behavior) with emphasis on the development of behavioral patterns, orientation, maintenance behavior, and social behavior. Supplemental trips may be included. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 2270.
BIOL 3200 Natural History of the Vertebrates (4 sh)
This course will focus on the identification, habitat and natural history, and life history of vertebrates. Biodiversity and strategies for survival are central themes. Fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals will be included with an emphasis on the vertebrates of North America. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 1270 or BIOL 2270.
BIOL 3210 Genetics (4 sh)
An introduction to Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance patterns as well as molecular genetics and biotechnology. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 1260.
BIOL 3230 Molecular Biology (4 sh)
A study of genes and gene regulation of living organisms at the molecular level. Particular attention will be given to modern biotechnology, genomics, and gene functions. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 2910.
BIOL 3290 Bioinformatics (2 sh)
The completion of genome projects for many species resulted in the establishment of genome and other related databases. A new biology subject, bioinformatics, has been developed to study genetics and other biological sciences by using these databases and computational analytical tools. It is used in research and industrial development from agriculture to medicine. This course is designed for students to understand the basic concept of biological databases as well as to acquire hands-on learning experience in these modern tools.
BIOL 3510 Embryology (4 sh)
Germ cell formation, fertilization, cleavage, gastrulation, and organogenesis in vertebrates. Extra-embryonic membranes and their functions. Study of the frog, the chick, and the pig. Lab included. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250, BIOL 1260, BIOL 2270.
BIOL 3530 Neuroscience (4 sh)
Study of the organization and function of the mammalian nervous system. Topics include but are not limited to basic neuroanatomy, neuronal networks of sensation, sensory perception and motor control, nervous system development, and the biological basis for higher cognitive functions including learning and memory. There is no separate laboratory section but some laboratory activities may be included during class meeting times. Prerequisite: BIOL 2930.
BIOL 3610 Medical Microbiology (2 sh)
Course includes identification of a wide variety of pathogenic organisms, study of infectious diseases and treatments, and interpretation of laboratory tests used to identify etiological agents. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250, 2910.
BIOL 3620 Immunology (2 sh)
A study of the immune system, stressing its role in protecting humans from the pathogenic microbes, by naturally and through medical intervention. Includes dysfunction associated with hypersensitivity, immunodeficiency, and autoimmunity. Clinically important immunological tests used in diagnostics will be presented. Prerequisite: BIOL 1250, BIOL 2910.
BIOL 3790 Advanced Topics in Biology (3-4 sh)
Multiple topics allow for course repeatability. Students must be able to travel to offsite locations such as Morton Arboretum or Shedd Aquarium. Students must first register at North Park with instructor's permission.
BIOL 3791 Plant Animal Interactions - Morton Arboretum (4 sh)
The study of the special ecological and evolutionary relationships between plants and animals. The basic interactions between plants and animals (herbivore pollination, and seed dispersal) will be studied by observing the natural history, conducting experiments, investigating the theory, discussing current scientific literature. Prerequisites: General Biology and one of: Botany, Ecology, Evolution, Genetics, Physiology, or Zoology.
BIOL 3792 Soil Ecology - Morton Arboretum (4 sh)
Soil is one of the earth’s most important resources, mediating plant productivity and community composition, and ecosystem functions. Understanding the relationships among the physical, chemical, and biological components of soil is crucial for assessing soil functions and predicting soil responses to global environmental changes in natural, urban and agricultural systems. The interactions between organisms, environments, and soil will be discussed in lecture and laboratory sessions. Students will have the opportunity to conduct soil experiments, review scientific papers related to this topic, as well as getting hands-on experience in soil science during field exercises. Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, Physics are recommended.
BIOL 3793 Woody Plants - Morton Arboretum (4 sh)
Woody Plants of the Western Great Lakes Region is an introduction to the plants that make up the woody flora of the western Great Lakes region. Learn the identification and ecology of the plants you see most often in our woodlands and landscapes, including native plants, naturalized plants and important woody landscape plants of the area. Laboratory will provide an opportunity to apply learned taxonomic principles by examining fresh cut specimens and dried herbarium plant materials. Field trips to the grounds of the Arboretum will acquaint the student with field identification characteristics. Daylong field trips to regional natural areas rich in woody plants will provide an opportunity to apply learned identification skills and to learn habitat preferences of plants studied. Prerequisite: General Biology and at least one of the following courses: Botany, Ecology, Genetics, or Evolution.
BIOL 3794 Freshwater Ecology - Shedd Aquarium (4 sh)
This course exposes students to applied aspects of Freshwater Ecology. Students will gain an appreciation for the freshwater environment, the organisms that call these habitats home, and the human relationship with both. We cover a wide range of topics utilizing a Laurentian Great Lakes lens, but also incorporate a global perspective. Activities vary based on opportunities, but have included habitat restoration on the Chicago River, angling and aquaculture experiences in Wisconsin, and techniques for assessing fish behavior. Prerequisite: General Biology and sophomore status.
BIOL 3890 Marine and Island Biology (4 sh)
This course examines the ecology and culture of The Bahamas through classroom study and field experience. This rich marine and island ecosystem provides a context for the interaction of humans and their environment over an extended history. Pre-trip presentations, organism identification, personal journal/species field notebook, participation, and a term paper will comprise the majority of student assessment. A course trip fee over and above tuition will be assessed. Valid passport and instructor consent is required.
BIOL 3910 Advanced Topics in Biology (2-4 sh)
Concentrated study of topics and areas of special interest to students and faculty. Consent of instructor is required. Prerequisite: BIOL 1260, one other 4 sh BIOL course, or instructor approval
BIOL 4020 ACCA Seminar (1 sh)
Discussion of current topics in selected areas of biological research. Held at various ACCA (Associated Colleges of the Chicago Area) Institutions. These seminars are coordinated by professors from member schools and utilize research specialists form the Chicago area as speakers. Student must be of third or fourth year standing.
BIOL 4901 Biology Comprehensive Exam (0 sh)
Comprehensive examination of major requirements.
BIOL 4930 Directed Research in Biology (1-4 sh)
Students will work under the direction of a faculty mentor on a novel research project culminating in a formal presentation. Permission of the faculty mentor and the department is required prior to enrollment in this course. A maximum of 4 sh may be taken. Requires faculty mentor consent for enrollment. Course may be repeated.
BIOL 4950 AuSable Institute of Environmental Studies (4-8 sh)
Courses and field work at the Au Sable Institute (offsite). Course topics include Land Resources, Natural Resources, Ethnobotany and Ecological Agriculture, Field Botany, Animal Ecology, Water Resources, Aquatic Biology, and Ecology of the Indian Tropics. Multiple topics allow for course repeatability.
Approval of the North Park Au Sable representative is required. Lab included.
BIOL 4951 Alpine Ecology - AuSable Pacific Rim (4 sh)
Ecology of the high mountains of the Pacific Northwest, with particular attention to adaptation of plant and animal life to montane climates and altitudes, and analysis and interpretation of altitudinal zonation of biotic communities with applications to latitudinal biogeography. Also included are topics of physiological responses of organisms to reduced oxygen levels, low temperatures and high-altitude radiation regimes. Prerequisite: one year of general biology or one semester of zoology.
BIOL 4952 Marine Biology - AuSable Pacific Rim (4 sh)
Focuses on intertidal life and marine ecology in oceanic and geophysical context. Students study the biology of marine plants and animals in the field, specifically trophic dynamic relationships of eel grass communities and the intertidal zone, workings of the island systems of Puget Sound, ecological roles of sea birds and fishes, population and community structure dynamics, exploitation and oceanic microbialization, and biogeochemical processes and their linkages with the biosphere. Marine stewardship and effects of human activity on the marine environment are integral to the course. Prerequisite: one year of general biology.
BIOL 4953 Marine Mammals - AuSable Pacific Rim (4 sh)
Biology, behavior, ecology, identification, and conservation of the marine mammals of the Pacific Rim. This study area covers some major habitats in Puget Sound and the Salish Sea, with attention to the diving physiology, social behavior, and communications of whales and seals. The course aims to develop a stewardship perspective rooted in biological principles and directed at the global conservation of marine mammals and their ecosystems. Special attention is given to their use by cultures of the region in order to understand current issues. Prerequisite: one year of general biology or one semester of zoology. A course in anatomy and/or physiology is recommended.
BIOL 4954 Environmental Chemistry - AuSable Great Lakes (4 sh)
Principles, analysis, and impact of chemical movement and distribution - both natural and human-induced - in natural environments focusing primarily on the hydrosphere and atmosphere. Sampling and analytical methods are included for water, soil, and air. Work is conducted both on site in natural habitats and on the laboratory. Prerequisite: one year of general chemistry and one semester of either biochemistry or organic chemistry. (4 sh). This course fulfills one of four chemistry course requirements for an Environmental Science major.
BIOL 4955 Field Biology - AuSable Great Lakes (4 sh)
Springtime plants and animals, their field identification, field biology, behavior and landscape context, with a focus on spring flora and birds. Starting with the geologic history of the area and its soils, a wide variety of ecosystems are studied to learn how people have interacted with the organisms there through the post-glacial history. The sustainability of human impacts by logging, farming and tourism are evaluated within a faith perspective. Students learn natural history of this place to equip the future practice of natural history in other places. The importance of natural history is applied to a variety of student interests, including medicinal uses of plants, nutrient cycling, and impact of food on human and environmental health. Offered between the spring college semester and the end of the spring high school semester to provide an opportunity to investigate the natural history almost entirely in the field during this very active time of year.
BIOL 4956 Restoration Ecology - AuSable Great Lakes (4 sh)
Ecological and theoretical foundations for ecosystem, community, and species level restoration. This course develops ecological principles for restoration and connects them to our faith-based emphasis on being redeemers of creation (II Cor. 5). Field studies include analysis of restoration and rehabilitation work with the Kirtland's Warbler, local rivers, coastal dunes, kettle-hole bogs, deforested lands, abandoned oil wells, as well as a full day field trip to engage urban restoration in practice. Practical field skills are emphasized through a class project during which a degraded area around Au Sable is made available for the students to develop and implement their own restoration plan. Prerequisite: one year of biology and one course in ecology or field biology.
BIOL 4957 Wildlife Ecology - AuSable Great Lakes (4 sh)
This course covers the ecology, conservation, and stewardship of wildlife species and their habitats. The main components of the course include growth and structure of natural and managed populations, environmental and human social factors affecting wildlife communities, and wildlife conservation. The course is set in the context of the historical development of the field from management, to ecology, and to the land ethic of Leopold. It also includes discussions of how to apply this information for management and stewardship of non-game and endangered species, and long-term prospects of wildlife in changing environmental, climatic, and social contexts. Prerequisite: one course in biology