Biology Courses

BIOL 121 (4) Introductory Zoology

An introduction to the biology of invertebrate and vertebrate animals from ecological and evolutionary perspectives. Emphasis is on the diverse behavioural, physiological and ecological adaptations of living animals. Labs emphasize taxonomic classification, evolutionary trends and functional morphology of the major animal phyla. (3:0:2)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in any one of Biology 11, Life Sciences 11, Biology 12, or Anatomy and Physiology 12; or admission to the RMOT diploma program.

BIOL 121A (3) Introductory Zoology Theory

This theory-based course is an introduction to the biology of invertebrate and vertebrate animals from ecological and evolutionary perspectives and does not include a laboratory component. Students should also complete BIOL 121L if their program requires a laboratory. BIOL 121A with BIOL 121L is equivalent to BIOL 121. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in any one of Biology 11, Life Sciences 11, Biology 12, or Anatomy and Physiology 12; or admission to the RMOT diploma program.

BIOL 121L (1) Introductory Zoology Laboratory

This is the co-requisite laboratory course that complements the topics covered in BIOL 121A. Students must enrol in BIOL 121A concurrently or have prior credit for BIOL 121A in order to take BIOL 121L. BIOL 121L with BIOL 121A is equivalent to BIOL 121. (0:0:2)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in any one of Biology 11, Life Sciences 11, Biology 12, or Anatomy and Physiology 12; or admission to the RMOT diploma program.

Co-requisites: BIOL 121A.

BIOL 123 (4) Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology

An introduction to sub-organismal biology. Topics include the chemistry of life from atoms to macromolecules, cellular structures and organelles, membranes, mitosis and meiosis, respiration, photosynthesis, genetics, protein production and evolution. (3:0:2)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in any one of Biology 11, Life Sciences 11, Biology 12, or Anatomy and Physiology 12; and Min. "C+" in Chemistry 11 or Chemistry 12.

BIOL 123A (3) Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology Theory

This theory-based course introduces sub-organismal biology from molecules to cellular and molecular processes and does not include a laboratory component. Students should also complete BIOL 123L if their program requires a laboratory. BIOL 123A with BIOL 123L is equivalent to BIOL 123. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in any one of Biology 11, Life Sciences 11, Biology 12, or Anatomy and Physiology 12; and Min. "C+" in Chemistry 11 or Chemistry 12.

BIOL 123L (1) Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory

This is the co-requisite laboratory course that complements the topics covered in BIOL 123A. Students must enrol in BIOL 123A concurrently or have prior credit for BIOL 123A in order to take BIOL 123L. BIOL 123L with BIOL 123A is equivalent to BIOL 123. (0:0:2)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in any one of Biology 11, Life Sciences 11, Biology 12, or Anatomy and Physiology 12; and Min. "C+" in Chemistry 11 or Chemistry 12.

Co-requisites: BIOL 123A.

BIOL 156 (4) Nursing: Anatomy and Physiology I

An introduction to human anatomy and physiology by exploring tissue and organ structure in relation to function. Topics include: chemical, cellular and tissue levels of body organization; microbiology; integumentary, musculoskeletal and nervous systems; and special senses. Credit will only be granted for one of BIOL 151 and BIOL 152 or BIOL 156. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either Biology 12 or Anatomy and Physiology 12; and Min. "C+" in Chemistry 11 or Chemistry 12.

BIOL 156A (3) Nursing: Anatomy and Physiology I Theory

This theory-based course gives an introduction to human anatomy and physiology exploring tissue and organ structure related to function and does not include a laboratory component. Students should also complete BIOL 156L if their program requires a laboratory. BIOL 156A with BIOL 156L is equivalent to BIOL 156. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either Biology 12 or Anatomy and Physiology 12; and Min. "C+" in Chemistry 11 or Chemistry 12.

BIOL 156L (1) Nursing: Anatomy and Physiology I Laboratory

This is the co-requisite laboratory course that complements the topics covered in BIOL 156A. Students must enroll in BIOL 156A concurrently or have prior credit for BIOL 156A in order to take BIOL 156L. BIOL 156L with BIOL 156A is equivalent to BIOL 156. (0:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either Biology 12 or Anatomy and Physiology 12; and Min. "C+" in Chemistry 11 or Chemistry 12.

Co-requisites: BIOL 156A.

BIOL 157 (4) Nursing: Anatomy and Physiology II

A continuation of BIOL 156. A further introduction to human body structure and function in relation to physiological principles and mechanisms. Topics include the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, digestive system and metabolism, urinary system and fluid balance, reproductive system, heredity and development. Credit will only be granted for one of BIOL 153 and BIOL 154 or BIOL 157. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 156 or min. "C-" in each of BIOL 151 and BIOL 152.

BIOL 157A (3) Nursing: Anatomy and Physiology II Theory

This theory-based course gives a further introduction to human body structure and function related to physiological principles and mechanisms and does not include a laboratory component. Students should also complete BIOL 157L if their program requires a laboratory. BIOL 157A with BIOL 157L is equivalent to BIOL 157. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in either BIOL 156A or BIOL 156.

BIOL 157L (1) Nursing: Anatomy and Physiology II Laboratory

This is the co-requisite laboratory course that complements the topics covered in BIOL 157A. Students must enrol in BIOL 157A concurrently or have prior credit for BIOL 157A in order to take BIOL 157L. BIOL 157L with BIOL 157A is equivalent to BIOL 157. (0:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 156A and BIOL 156L, or in BIOL 156.

Co-requisites: BIOL 157A.

BIOL 200 (3) Introduction to Cell Biology

Introduction to fundamental principles governing cell structure and function. Topics: cytological techniques, cell membrane, cell-cell interactions, extra-cellular matrix, cell organelles, cytoskeleton, cell movement, and signal transduction. (3:0:1.5)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 201 and CHEM 231.

BIOL 201 (3) Principles of Biochemistry I

An introduction to the principles of Biochemistry. Topics include properties of biomolecules, basic enzymology, metabolism, bioenergetics, nucleic acid and protein structure and synthesis, biochemical signalling, and an introduction to immunochemistry. (3:0:1.5)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in either CHEM 141 or CHEM 142; min. "C-" in CHEM 231 (may be taken concurrently). BIOL 123 is recommended.

BIOL 202 (3) Ecology

A study of the physical environment and its effects on individuals, followed by a survey of populations, communities, ecosystems, biomes, and general principles of ecology. Labs will deal with both field and experimental aspects of ecology. (3:0:1.5)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 121

BIOL 210 (4) Microbiology I (Effective Sep 2024)

An introduction to the many disciplines associated with microbiology. Topics include procaryotic cell structure and function, growth of micro-organisms, bacterial physiology and genetics, diversity of microbes in the environment, and microbial ecology. (3:0:2)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 123; and min. "C-" in each of BIOL 201 and CHEM 231 (BIOL 201 and CHEM 231 may be taken concurrently).

BIOL 211 (3) Microbiology II

A continuation of BIOL 210, including immunology and microbial pathogenesis, medical microbiology, and virology. (3:0:1.5)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 210.

BIOL 212 (3) Genetics

Students will gain knowledge of the nature and function of genetic material. Topics include transmission genetics, molecular genetics, mutation analysis, DNA repair and chromosome structure. (3:1:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 201.

BIOL 223 (3) Botany

An overview of the characters and life cycles of fungi, algae, and plants. Topics include cell division, plant anatomy and cell types, mating systems, photosynthesis and basic plant physiology, systematics and evolution, and plant biogeography. BIOL 223 was formerly called BIOL 122; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:1.5)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 123

BIOL 305 (3) Animal Physiology

Comparative approach to basic physiology of invertebrates and vertebrates. Topics: fundamental principles of body organization, homeostasis, nutrition, osmotic balance, respiration, circulation, muscular contraction, sensory systems, nervous systems and brains, hormone function, and reproduction. Includes examples of how physiological adaptations permit animals to thrive in diverse habitats. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 201 and a min. "C-" in one of either BIOL 200 or FISH 123.

BIOL 310 (3) Invertebrate Zoology

Advanced invertebrate zoology from evolutionary perspective, integrating phylogenetic trends with physiological and behavioural adaptations, and ecological and symbiotic interactions. Rich diversity of marine invertebrates stressed. Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre field trip compulsory (nominal cost). Note: Not offered every year. Credit will only be granted for one of FISH 205 or BIOL 310. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 202, or completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT

BIOL 315 (3) Parasitology

An examination of the diverse adaptations and life cycles of animal parasites with focus on those of medical, veterinary, and fisheries significance. Topics include epidemiology, mechanisms of pathology, and the complex physiological, biochemical, and immunological interactions between hosts and parasites. Note: not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 202, or completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT

BIOL 320 (4) Limnology (Effective Sep 2024)

An examination of biological and physicochemical processes influencing function and trophic structure of inland aquatic ecosystems including lakes, streams, and wetlands. Field trips and laboratories will focus on techniques used to study aquatic habitats. Note: Not offered every year. Credit will only be granted for one of FISH 321 or BIOL 320. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 202, or completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT.

BIOL 322 (3) Terrestrial Ecosystems

An analysis of the structure and function of terrestrial ecosystems. Topics include climatology and biomes, soil processes, energy balance, water, carbon and nutrient cycles, factors that influence ecosystem structure and function, the role of disturbances, and human impacts on terrestrial ecosystems. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 202, or completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT

BIOL 325 (3) Ornithology

Ecology, evolution, behaviour and conservation of birds. Laboratories and field projects will focus on identification, systematics and life histories of species from British Columbia. This course involves fieldwork outside of class time. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 202, or completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT

BIOL 332 (3) Microbial Ecology

An understanding of microbes and their importance in the global ecosystem, including the interrelationships between microbes and the higher organisms. Topics include the role of microbes in evolution, biogeochemical cycles, various terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and environmental pollution problems. Explores the methodologies used to study the activities of microbes in nature. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 210. BIOL 212 is recommended.

BIOL 333 (4) Laboratory Techniques in Molecular Biology (Effective Sep 2024)

An intensive laboratory course dealing with the methodology used in recombinant DNA technology. The course includes DNA and vector purification, restriction endonuclease analysis of bacterial genome, cloning with a plasmid vector, and related screening procedures. Note: not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 210 and CHEM 231 and min. "C-" in either BIOL 211 or BIOL 212.

BIOL 334 (3) Virology

An introduction to virus structure, biochemistry, replication and pathogenesis. Representatives from the different prokaryotic and animal virus families will be used to demonstrate the structural, biochemical, and molecular characteristics of the different virus groups. Includes discussion on the molecular mechanisms of replication and cellular/molecular viral pathogenesis. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 210.

BIOL 336 (3) Bacterial Genetics

An overview of the genetics of prokaryotes and their viruses. Topics include "traditional" bacterial genetics and contemporary aspects of prokaryotic molecular genetics, analysis of experimental observations, and critical reviews of relevant current literature in the field. Note: not offered every year. Credit will only be granted for one of BIOL 331 or BIOL 336. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 210 and BIOL 212.

BIOL 341 (3) Molecular Cell Biology

The course presents aspects of modern molecular cell biology, with emphasis on systems in eukaryotes that enable cells to function in multicellular organisms. Topics include gene expression, nervous transmission, cell cycle control, signal transduction, cancer, etc. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 212, and min. "C-" in either BIOL 200 or FISH 123.

BIOL 342 (3) Principles of Biochemistry II

This course examines modern biochemical analysis of metabolic processes, including enzyme structure and function and synthesis of the major groups of macromolecules. Lab exercises include various macromolecule purification and detection techniques. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 201 and CHEM 231.

BIOL 345 (3) Molecular Ecology

This course emphasizes the theoretical and analytical approaches of population genetics to address topics in ecology and evolution. Students learn how to collect and analyze genetic data to address issues in behaviour, conservation and evolution. Applicable for students with interest in molecular biology or ecology. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 202 and BIOL 212. Completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT is acceptable in lieu of BIOL 202.

BIOL 348 (4) Genomics and Bioinformatics (Effective Sep 2024)

Gain practical computing skills for handling and manipulating large genomic datasets. Work through next-generation sequencing data sets using basic computer programming in both shell environments and R. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 123 and BIOL 212.

BIOL 350 (3) Plant Biology

This course expands on the material introduced in BIOL 223 by delving deeper into the molecular genetics, cell biology, metabolism, development and physiology of plants. Though focused on plants, many of the topics discussed are fundamental biological processes that will be of interest to any student of biology. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 212 and BIOL 223. BIOL 200 is recommended.

BIOL 351 (3) Population and Community Ecology

An advanced examination of complex associations of plant and animal species and their interactions with abiotic factors. Focus is on theoretical and experimental approaches to understanding population dynamics and community structure and function. Compulsory field trip to Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, with nominal cost. Note: not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 202, or completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT

BIOL 357 (3) Entomology

An examination of taxonomy, morphology, physiology, ecology, behaviour and life history of insects. Labs study insect classification and diversity through collecting, identifying and mounting specimens. Includes several field trips. Students must obtain collecting gear and instructions from instructor during the summer prior to the course. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 202, or completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT.

BIOL 360 (3) Intro to Animal Behaviour

A study of animal behaviour, emphasizing how scientists use evolutionary theory to study the behaviour of animals. An examination of the biological significance, physiological mechanisms, and ecological importance of behaviour. Note: Not offered every year. (3:3:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 202, or completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT

BIOL 365 (3) Biotechnology

An introduction to methods and goals of modern biotechnology. Topics include animal and biomedical biotechnology, microbial biotechnology and bioremediation, and plant biotechnology including genetic modification of agriculturally important plants. The course will also examine some of the social and ethical issues associated with biotechnology. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" grade in each of BIOL 123 and BIOL 212.

BIOL 372 (3) Plant Ecology

An overview of the factors that affect plant growth, reproduction and diversity, including how plants interact with their environment and other species. Specific topics include competition, herbivory, pollination, succession, and landscape and global processes. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 202 and BIOL 223, or completion of a diploma in Forestry. Completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture or RMOT is acceptable in lieu of BIOL 202.

BIOL 375 (4) Ecological Methodology (Effective Sep 2024)

This course emphasizes experimental design and research methods in field ecology. Students will learn how to collect and analyze field data, and place their results in an ecological context while applying the scientific method. This course involves fieldwork outside of class time. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 202 and MATH 203. Completion of a diploma in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry or RMOT is acceptable in lieu of BIOL 202.

BIOL 398 (3) Advanced Topics in Biology

Advanced topics in biology not in the calendar list of courses. The topics to be covered and the specific 200-level BIOL prerequisites will be announced on the Biology Department's website. May be taken for credit more than once if the topics are different. Not offered every year. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Six credits of 200-level BIOL courses. Additional prerequisites may be in effect depending on the topic to be studied.

BIOL 402 (3) Evolution

An examination of the history of evolutionary thought, the mechanisms of evolutionary change in populations, extinction, speciation, molecular evolution, and evolutionary interactions among species. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Minimum of 15 upper-level Biology credits, or permission of instructor.

BIOL 403 (3) Current Topics in Biology

A discussion of the fundamental ideas, concepts and current issues in science and the life sciences that affect our society. Students participate in regular in-class discussions of assigned reading, and are required to lead discussions of specific current topics in Biology. (1:2:0)

Prerequisite: Minimum of 15 upper-level Biology credits, or permission of instructor.

BIOL 415 (3) Ecological Parasitology

An advanced study of the roles of parasites on the behaviour, genetics, ecology, and evolution of their hosts. Topics also include the biology of parasitic arthropods and immunoparasitology. A field trip to the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre is compulsory, with a nominal cost. Note: not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 315.

BIOL 432 (4) Applied Microbiology (Effective Sep 2024)

An advanced exposure to the applications of microorganisms in addressing human problems and needs. Fundamentals of microbial physiology, genetics, and ecological interactions are developed as students explore topics in food and beverage production, forestry and agriculture, aquaculture, bioremediation and biodegradation of pollutants, and other industrial processes. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 210.

BIOL 434 (3) The Microbiome

Microbes are everywhere and can have huge impacts on organisms and ecosystems. We will survey the microbiome, which includes microbes, their genes and their products that are associated with an environment or host. This course will emphasize the analysis and interpretation of microbiome data. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 210.

BIOL 435 (3) Immunology

A study of the general functions of the human immune system; the cellular, genetic and molecular mechanisms involved in immunology; the role of immunity in infectious and non-infectious diseases; immune deficiencies and auto-immune disorders. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 200.

BIOL 436 (3) Pathogenic Microbiology

An explanation of the general principles of microbial pathogenesis, the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved with specific bacteria, and the epidemiology of the various bacterial pathogens. Material is presented in lecture and lab sections, as well as via reading, writing and presentation exercises. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 210.

BIOL 437 (3) Applied Epidemiology

An introduction to the principles and practice of studying diseases in populations. Covers observational study methods, principles of disease causation, health determinants and disease dynamics, clinical epidemiology, and field epidemiology. Seminars involve case studies and critical review of the literature. Human and animal health issues are discussed. Note: not offered every year. (3:3:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 202 and BIOL 210.

BIOL 440 (3) Cancer Biology

An exploration of the biological processes associated with cancer. Topics include cancer cell pathology; chemical, viral and radiation carcinogenesis; epidemiology; heritable cancers; oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes; immunology of tumour cells; epigenetics; cancer treatment and prevention; and, psychosocial perspectives in cancer diagnosis and treatment. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 200 and BIOL 212. BIOL 341 is recommended (may be taken concurrently).

BIOL 443 (3) Developmental Biology

A study of animal development and the mechanisms that control it. Introductory embryology of vertebrates and invertebrates will be coordinated with the analysis of developmental processes. Topics will include gametogenesis, fertilization, cleavage, embryogenesis, organogenesis, cellular differentiation, growth, metamorphosis, and regeneration. Note: not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 200 and BIOL 212.

BIOL 445 (3) Molecular Genetics

An in-depth examination of the molecular basis of gene expression and heredity. Emphasis will be on the use of modern molecular biological techniques to analyze the different levels of gene expression and the mechanisms of DNA replication. Topics will include transgenic organisms, gene therapy, genetic diseases, etc. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of BIOL 200 and BIOL 212.

BIOL 457 (3) Biodiversity and Conservation Biology (Effective Sep 2024)

This course explores how humans affect biodiversity and investigates the multidisciplinary approaches used to document changes in biological diversity and prevent the extinction of species and the loss of their habitat. Note: Not offered every year. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. C- in BIOL 202 or permission of instructor.

BIOL 465 (3) Endocrinology

An introduction to principles of hormone action. Focuses on human hormones, with examples from other species. Particular emphasis on control of blood glucose levels by the pancreas, the reproductive system and its hormones, and how hormones influence human behaviour. Note: not offered every year. (3:3:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 200.

BIOL 480 (3) Work Experience in Biology

An opportunity to learn about biology through relevant employment or volunteer experiences. Students must complete at least 15 weeks of full-time employment (or volunteer experience) in a Biology position approved by a faculty member in the Biology Department. Interim and final reports must be submitted and presented. (0:0:0 -525)

Prerequisite: Minimum average of "B" in 15 credits of upper-level Biology courses, and permission of the Chair of the Biology Department.

BIOL 490 (3) Directed Studies in Biology

Departmental permission may be given for supervised individual study or directed readings. Complete arrangements must be made with an instructor in the department before registering. Consult the Chair if you plan to take this course. Content must be demonstrated to be independent of the BIOL 491 research topic. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Completion of min. 12 upper-level Biology credits.

BIOL 491 (6) Undergraduate Research Project

An opportunity to work on a research project under the direct supervision of faculty. Students will develop research proposals with their faculty supervisor, carry out the research and prepare a full scientific report. Presentation of the proposal and a report on the results are required at two seminars. Encompasses both Fall and Spring semesters for any given academic year. Note: A Faculty Advisor Endorsement form is required for registration. See department Chair for details. (0:0:3 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Minimum of 18 upper-level Biology credits.

BIOL 492 (3) Teaching Undergraduate Biology

An opportunity to gain laboratory/teaching experience in a field of biology relevant to career goals. The instructor and course technician expose the student to tasks involved in preparation and presentation of course labs. Supervised participation may include delivery of concepts, techniques or experimental design, offering hands-on assistance to students. (0:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "A-" in BIOL course of assignment and permission from the instructor of the course of assignment.