Biology

Major

Due to University Updates, Course Numbers for all Departments have Changed. Please reference the Courses Tab for new Course Numbers.

Requirements for the Major (52 credits)

I. Required Courses (20 credits)

• BIOL 7/Ecology and Evolution (4)
• BIOL 9/Diversity of Life: Animals, Plants, and Microbes (4)
• BIOL 22/Molecular and Cellular Biology (4)
• CHEM 6, 6A/Principles of Chemistry I (4)
• CHEM 7/Principles of Chemistry II (4)

Two additional courses from the following (8 credits):

• CHEM 25/Organic Chemistry I (4)
• CHEM 26/Organic Chemistry II (4)
• MATH 3/Introductory Statistics (4)
• MATH 7/Calculus and Analytical Geometry I (4)
• MATH 8/Calculus and Analytical Geometry II (4)
• MATH 27/Intermediate Statistics (4)
• PHYS 1/Introductory Physics I or PHYS 11/University Physics I (4)
• PHYS 2/Introductory Physics II or PHYS 12/University Physics II (4)

II. Intermediate or Upper Level Course Work (24 credits)

Students must take 4 credits from each subarea OR 8 credits from each of two subareas. Four credits of Biology 195, 196, or Neuroscience 197 can substitute for 4 credits in any one subarea.  Courses listed in two groups may be applied to only one subarea requirement.  The subarea requirements met by special seminars (Biology 190) and topics courses (Biology 90 and 192) will vary with the topic.  At least one course must include a scientific writing and research component (see list below). A single course might fulfill the writing/research component and one of the subarea requirements.  At least 16 credits must be at the upper level.

Group I. Courses meeting the cellular/molecular subarea requirement.

• BIOL 26/Microbiology (4)
• BIOL 120/Cell and Molecular Neurobiology (4)
• BIOL 124/Neurobiology of Learning & Memory (2)
• BIOL 127/Diseases of the Brain (4)
• BIOL 138/Advanced Cellular Biology (3)
• BIOL 139/Advanced Laboratory in Cellular Biology (1)
• BIOL 142/Developmental Biology (4)
• BIOL 152/Virology (4)
• BIOL 154/Immunology (4)
• BIOL 155/Laboratory in Immunology (1)
• BIOL 156/Molecular Genetics (4)
• BIOL 189/Microscopy (2)

Group II. Courses meeting the organismal subarea requirement:

• BIOL 24/Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology (4)
• BIOL 26/Microbiology (4)
• BIOL 121/Systems Neurobiology (4)
• BIOL 124/Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (2)
• BIOL 127/Diseases of the Brain (4)
• BIOL 134/Endocrinology (4)
• BIOL 140/Vertebrate Morphogenesis (4)
• BIOL 154/Immunology (4)
• BIOL 155/Immunology Lab (1)
• BIOL 160/Emerging Infectious Diseases (4)
• BIOL 162/Ornithology (4)
• BIOL 167/Animal Behavior
• BIOL 171/Plant Morphology and Identification (2-4)
• BIOL 173/Forest Ecology (4)
• BIOL 183/Tropical Marine Ecology (4)
• BIOL 188/Medical and Veterinary Parasitology (2)
• NEURO 198/Great Challenges in Neuroscience Research (4)

Group III. Courses meeting the supra-organismal subarea requirement:

• BIOL 30/Environmental Science (4)
• BIOL 145/Geographic Information Systems (4)
• BIOL 146/Earth’s Dynamic Surface: From Mount Everest to Ocean Floor (4)
• BIOL 160/Emerging Infectious Diseases (4)
• BIOL 166/Evolutionary Genetics (4)
• BIOL 167/Animal Behavior (4)
• BIOL 169/Conservation Biology (4)
• BIOL 173/Forest Ecology (4)
• BIOL 178/Biogeography (3)
• BIOL 179/Laboratory in Biogeography (1-2)
• BIOL 183/Tropical Marine Ecology (4)
• BIOL 186/Freshwater Ecology (4)
• PH 120/Epidemiology (4)

Scientific Writing and Literature Research Requirement

(one course from the following)

• BIOL 30/Environmental Science (4)
• BIOL 121/Systems Neurobiology (4)
• BIOL 124/Neurobiology of Learning & Memory (2)
• BIOL 127/Diseases of the Brain (4)
• BIOL 134/Endocrinology (4)
• BIOL 138/Advanced Cell Biology (4)
• BIOL 142/Developmental Biology (4)
• BIOL 152/Virology (4)
• BIOL 155/Lab in Immunology (1)
• BIOL 156/Molecular Genetics (4)
• BIOL 167/Animal Behavior (4)
• BIOL 169/Conservation Biology (4)
• BIOL 178/Biogeography (3)
• BIOL 183/Tropical Marine Ecology (4)
• BIOL 190 & 191/ Seminar in Biology (2)
• NEURO 198/Great Challenges in Neuroscience Research (4)

Minor

Due to University Updates, Course Numbers for all Departments have Changed. Please reference the Courses Tab for new Course Numbers.

Requirements for the Minor (28 credits)

I. Required Courses (20 credits)

• BIOL 7/Ecology and Evolution (4)
• BIOL 9/Diversity of Life: Animals, Plants, and Microbes (4)
• BIOL 22/Molecular and Cellular Biology (4)
• CHEM 6, 6A/Principles of Chemistry I (4)
• CHEM 7/Principles of Chemistry II (4)

II. Advanced Course Work (8 credits)

at the upper (or intermediate level), including one upper-level laboratory course. Independent study/honors work does not count as laboratory course work toward the minor.

Faculty

Faculty

• Professors: David Miyamoto, Sara Webb
• Associate Professors: Stephen Dunaway, Roger Knowles, Christina McKittrick, Tammy Windfelder (chair)
• Assistant Professors: Chelsea Marie, Joanna Miller, Catherine Riihimaki

Courses

Courses Offered

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BIOL 102 - Formerly 1 - The Biological Basis of Human Sexuality (4)

An introduction to human sexuality, broadly defined from a biological point of view. General topics include consideration of genetic, gonadal, hormonal, phenotypic, and brain sex. Discusses sexual arousal, human sexual response cycles, contraceptive techniques, pregnancy, birth, and sexually transmitted diseases, as well as the biological contributions to sexual behavior. Includes a study of the relationship of the reproductive system to other systems of the body. Does not meet requirements for major or minor in biology.
Meets: Four hours class Offered annually.
Fulfills: BNS

BIOL 101 - Formerly 3 - Environmental Biology (4)

An introductory study of ecology and environmental quality. Includes a survey of the impact of people on the environment and suggestions for meeting our future biological and technological needs in environmentally compatible ways. Does not meet requirements for major or minor in biology.
Meets: Three hours class. Offered annually.
Fulfills: BNS

BIOL 103 - Formerly 4A - Microbes in Health and Disease (4)

An introduction to the microbial world with emphasis on the importance of microbes in human survival and well-being. Topics include microbes and ecosystems, biotechnology and microbiology, emerging infectious diseases, microbes as weapons of bioterrorism and warfare, and microorganisms as research tools.
Site visits to nearby pharmaceutical, water purification, and sewage treatment plants. Meets: Three hours class. Offering to be determined.
Fulfills: BNS

BIOL 104 - Formerly 5 - DNA and Biotechnology Today (4)

A course for non-science majors in which students study the structure and function of DNA as a background to understanding hereditary traits and genetic diseases. Current events are used as a context for study. Topics include the Human Genome Project, molecular forensics, bioremediation using DNA technology, and gene therapy. Format of class includes lectures, student presentations, and hands-on activities during the designated class time. Does not meet requirements for major or minor in biology.
Meets: Four hours class Offered annually.
Fulfills: BNS

BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - Ecology and Evolution (4)

An exploration of evolutionary and ecological processes and consequences, with close examination of population dynamics, population genetics, principles of heredity, the evolution of adaptations, community interactions, ecosystems, and biodiversity. Laboratory includes field-based investigations of upland and wetland ecosystems, as well as simulations and laboratory experiments.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory. Offered fall semester.
Fulfills: BNS, WM

BIOL 160 - Formerly 9 - Diversity of Life: Animals, Plants, and Microbes (4)

A survey of the animals, plants, fungi, protista, and bacteria of Planet Earth, with comparative analysis of adaptations for survival, reproduction, development, and metabolism. Laboratory emphasizes experimental methods of science as well as morphology and physiology of the major phyla.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory. Corequisite: Must register for Biol 9L. Offered spring semester.
Fulfills: WM, BNS

BIOL 160LA - Formerly 9LA - Laboratory in Diversity of Life (1)

Enrollment priority: Laboratory option only available to students earning a score of 4 or 5 on the AP biology exam AND passing exam at Drew exempting from lecture component of the course. Meets: Three hour laboratory. Offered spring semester.

BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - Molecular and Cellular Biology (4)

An introduction to composition, structure, and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, using themes of energy and reproduction. Topics include DNA replication, transcription, and translation, mutations, gene regulation, membrane function, cellular communication, motility, absorption, and secretion. Laboratory includes current research techniques such as cell culture nucleic acid characterization, cloning, and restriction mapping.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL7 or BIOL9 and CHEM 160A - Formerly 7 - . Offered fall semester.
Fulfills: WM

BIOL 254 - Formerly 24 - Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology (4)

An examination of the structure and function of various physiological systems, such as circulation, respiration, and reproduction. How organs and organ systems evolved, how they function at a biochemical and biophysical level, how they are regulated, and how the functions of multiple systems are interconnected and coordinated within the whole organism. Laboratory will include the exploration of the dynamic function and regulation of human physiological systems and the study of anatomy through dissection of animal specimens.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 160 - Formerly 9 - , BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - and CHEM 160A - Formerly 7 - . Offered spring semester.

BIOL 252 - Formerly 26 - Microbiology (4)

A comprehensive introduction to the nature and diversity of microorganisms and the roles they play in health, disease, and the ecosystem. Covers bacteria, viruses, protozoa and fungi. This course examines the ecological, structural, cellular, and molecular features of microbes and explores how some of these features affect host/microbe interactions. Laboratory work incorporates methods of bacterial isolation and identification, including microscopy, use of selective and differential media, biochemical and serological tests, and rapid ID methods.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 160 - Formerly 9 - , BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - , CHEM 250A - Formerly 25 - Offered spring semester.

BIOL 215 - Formerly 30 - Environmental Science (4)

This course explores the science behind environmental problems and solutions. Students study current environmental issues in the context of their scientific (biological, chemical, geological) underpinnings, while alos considering the political, social and cultural dimensions of these issues. The course also addresses the role of scientific knowledge in understanding and resolving environmental problems, such as climate change, population growth, deforestation, extinction, air and water pollution, food production, and environmental health. These topics are explored through readings, films, student writing, research and field trips.
Enrollment priority: Given to majors and minors in Biology and Environmental Studies. Meets: Three hour class. Annually. Same as: ESS 215 - Formerly 30 -
Fulfills: BNS

BIOL 270 - Formerly 90 - Topics in Biology (2-4)

Topics that enrich the regular biology curriculum are offered as opportunities arise. Number of credits and prerequisites vary with course topic.
Amount of credit established at registration. Course may be repeated. Offering to be determined.

BIOL 356 - Formerly 120 - Cell and Molecular Neurobiology (4)

The structure and function of neurons, the basic building blocks of the nervous system, are investigated. The course builds to an understanding of how neuronal cell function determines higher brain processes, such as sensation and memory. The laboratory employs living neurons' growth in culture to explore topics such as growth of neurites, cell signaling pathways, and neural degeneration.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory Prerequisite: BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - Offered annually. Same as: NEUR 356 - Formerly NEURO 120 -

BIOL 346 - Formerly 121 - Systems Neurobiology (4)

The neurons of the nervous system are organized into systems that can be defined on the basis of function, anatomy or neurochemistry. This course explores the development of these systems, coordination of the activity within each system, and clinical disorders arising from malfunctions. The laboratory uses current neuroanatomical, pharmacological and neurochemical techniques to explore structure and function.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 160 - Formerly 9 - , BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - and CHEM 160A - Formerly 7 - . Corequisite: BIOL 346 - Formerly 121 - L Offered annually. Same as: NEUR 346 - Formerly NEURO 121 -

BIOL 346L - Formerly 121L - Systems Neurobiology Laboratory

No description is available for this course. Corequisite: BIOL 346 - Formerly 121 -

BIOL 358 - Formerly 127 - Diseases of the Brain (4)

An in-depth study of neurologic diseases. Case studies of affected patients are used to undestand the relationship between the physical changes and the behavioral impairments in these diseases. Biological mechanisms to explain the pathological and clinical manifestations of the diseases are investigated. Genetic and environmental risk factors are studied to explore etiology. Current therapies and ongoing scientific research into novel treatments are evaluated.
Meets: Three hours class Prerequisite: BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - Same as: NEUR 358 - Formerly NEURO 127 -
Fulfills: WI

BIOL 344 - Formerly 134 - Endocrinology (4)

A study of the structure and function of mammalian hormone systems. After a general discussion of the major classes of hormones, an in-depth exploration of individual endocrine systems involved in regulating sexual development, body fluid balance, the stress response, and other physiological processes. Topics will include the cellular and molecular mechanisms mediating hormone action, the central and peripheral control of endocrine systems, and clinical correlates of endocrine dysfunction.
Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - , BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - , CHEM 250A - Formerly 25 - . Offering to be determined.
Fulfills: WI

BIOL 364 - Formerly 138 - Advanced Cellular Biology (3)

Advanced study of cell components and functions. Topics include the role of eukaryotic chromosome structure in gene function, control of macromolecule movement between cell compartments, intracellular vesicle. trafficking, intracellular communication pathways and networks, how the cytoskeleton produces the forces that change cell shape and organization, and the mechanisms by which cells interact in a multicellular organism. Regular oral presentations and a review paper.
Meets: Three hours class Prerequisite: BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - and CHEM 350A - Formerly 26 - , or permission of instructor. Corequisite: if offered during the same semester. Offering to be determined.

BIOL 340 - Formerly 140 - Vertebrate Morphogenesis (4)

Vertebrate anatomy and embryology integrated into a single sequence relating adult morphology to embryological development and adaptation. Stresses basic principles of vertebrate organization, functional considerations of morphology, homologies among vertebrate structures, and evolutionary relations of vertebrate groups. Laboratory work includes comparative studies of various vertebrate types and field trips to the Bronx Zoo and American Museum of Natural History. Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - and BIOL 160 - Formerly 9 - , or permission of instructor. Offered fall semester.

BIOL 366 - Formerly 142 - Developmental Biology (4)

Examination of the principles of development and mechanisms involved in the growth , shaping, and differentiation of organisms. Topics include gene regulation in multicellular organisms, cytoplasmic determination, interactions with extracellular matrix, organ morphogenesis, and mechanisms regulating the pattern of biological structures. In the laboratory, traditional and modern biological techniques and procedures are applied to the study of development.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - and CHEM 160A - Formerly 7 - Offering to be determined.

BIOL 302 - Formerly 145 - Geographic Information Systems (4)

This course explores GIS (Geographic Information System) and related spatial analysis tools, which are used to elucidate the natural landscape and human modification of the earth's surface. Students will acquire cartographic, ArcGIS, and remote sensing skills through case studies and individual research investigations.
Enrollment priority: Given to majors in Biology,Environmental Studies,and Archaeology. Same as: ESS 302 - Formerly 145 -
Fulfills: Q, BI

BIOL 304 - Formerly 146 - Earth's Dynamic Surface:From Mount Everest to Ocean Floor (4)

The Earth's surface is diverse, with mountains, rivers, coasts, and glaciers existing in various locations on the planet. It is also dynamic, as mountains rise and fall, rivers meander, and coastlines evolve. In this course, we will explore how and why the Earth looks the way that it does, while considering important factors such as the impacts of climate, sea level changes, human activities, and plate tectonics. We will use the New Jersey landscape as a case study, exploring how it has changed from a landscape like the East African Rift, to its present, muted topography. Students will learn basic techniques for field geologists, methods of data analysis and presentation, and skills for effective reading of peer-reviewed literature.
. These skills will be directly relevant to students interested in environmental science, ecology, archaeology, Prerequisite: Introductory lab science course or ESS30/Introduction to Environmental Science. To be determinded. Same as: ESS 304 - Formerly 146 -

BIOL 362 - Formerly 152 - Virology (4)

A survey of animal viruses with emphasis on human pathogens and mechanisms of viral pathogenesis. Course content includes topics such as the physical and chemical properties of viruses, viral cultivation, assay and analysis, and multiplication of both DNA and RNA viruses within the animal cell.
Meets: Three hours class Prerequisite: BIOL 22,26 and CHEM 250A - Formerly 25 - . Offering to be determined.

BIOL 348 - Formerly 154 - Immunology (4)

An introduction to the principles of immunology. Stresses the nature of antigens, antibodies, and antigen-antibody interactions; humoral and cellular immune responses governing antibody production, hypersensitivities, transplantation, tolerance, autoimmunity, and neoplasia. Includes discussions on immunogenetics, immunoregulation, and the concept of immune networks.
Meets: Three 65-min classes. Prerequisite: BIOL 250 - Formerly 22 - and CHEM 250A - Formerly 25 - . Offered spring semester.

BIOL 358L - Formerly 155 - Laboratory in Immunology (1)

Laboratory option serving BIOL 348 - Formerly 154 - . Experimental work in fundamentals of immunology; involves use of live animals. Exercises include immunization and bleeding techniques, gel diffusion tests, immunoelectrophoresis, immunofluorescence, Jerne plaque assay, ELISA and skin transplantation in rodents. Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Co/prerequisite: BIOL 348 - Formerly 154 - . Meets: Three hours laboratory Offered spring semester.

BIOL 368 - Formerly 156 - Molecular Genetics (4)

A course concerned with the structure, synthesis, and function of nucleic acids, proteins, and other cell components, using primary literature as well as current texts. Includes prokaryotic and eukaryotic genetics and mechanisms for rearrangement and exchange of genetic material (mutations, conjugation, transformation, transduction, transposition, and gene-splicing). Experimental work, advanced laboratory techniques, and independent projects. Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory Prerequisite: BIOL 7,9,22 and CHEM 350A - Formerly 26 - (co-or pre-requisite), or permission of instructor. Offered spring semester.

BIOL 348L - Formerly 158L - Lab for Immunology (1)

Lab for Immunology
Optional Lab. Corequisite: Pre-req or Co-req of required.

BIOL 330 - Formerly 160 - Emerging Infectious Disease (4)

Scientific advances in the late 19th and early 20th centuries resulted in the prevention and control of many infectious diseases, particularly in industrialized nations. Despite these improvements in health, outbreaks of infectious diseases continue to occur and new infections continue to emerge, some with devastating effects. This course will address trends in infectious diseases, analyze factors contributing to disease emergence, and discuss the development and implementation of prevention and control measures. Relevant topics in microbial pathogenesis and transmission, as well as important aspects of international health will also be addressed.
Prerequisite: A OR BIOL 252 - Formerly 26 - .

BIOL 338 - Formerly 162 - Ornithology (4)

An advanced course for biology majors interested in the biology of birds. Topics include: anatomy, physiology, distribution and systematics, with emphasis on avian ecology, behavior, and evolution. Through integrated laboratories, field trips, and discussions of the primary literature, students learn the identification of birds, functional morphology, and research techniques such as experimental design, behavioral observation, and statistical analyses. Two weekend field trips. Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - and 9. Offered fall semester in odd-numbered years.

BIOL 312 - Formerly 166 - Evolutionary Genetics (4)

An exploration of major concepts in evolutionary biology. Topics include population genetics, quantitative genetics, natural selection, molecular evolution, speciation, systematics, and paleobiology. Although the primary emphasis will be on theoretical concepts, students will be introduced to the methods used to test evolutionary hypotheses in both lecture and lab. Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - , 9, and 22, or permission of instructor. Offered spring semester in even-numbered years.

BIOL 314 - Formerly 167 - Animal Behavior (4)

An investigation of the behavior of animals from an evolutionary perspective Topics to be covered include foraging, vigilance, social behavior, mating strategies, animal communication, and more. Lectures and discussions will focus on theoretical principles supported by empirical examples from organisms such as dung beetles, striped plateau lizards, song sparrows, and various primate species. Laboratories will be focused on experimental design and learning the techniques of conducting animal behavior research. Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - and 9, or permission of instructor Offered spring semester in odd-numbered years.

BIOL 308 - Formerly 169 - Conservation Biology (4)

An exploration of the major principles of conservation biology-the study of maintaining biological diversity. We will examine the foundations of conservation biology, its biological concepts (principles and theories), and the applications of such concepts to preserving biodiversity. This course emphasizes the application of evolutionary and ecological theory to the preservation of threatened species, but also considers economic, political and philosophical perspectives. Classroom activities will facilitate understanding of the principles of conservation biology, and field trips will provide direct exposure to the practice of conservation biology. Appropriate for students in biology and environmental studies.
Meets: Three hours class. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - or 9, or permission of instructor Offering to be determined.

BIOL 334 - Formerly 171 - Plant Morphology and Identification (2-4)

A survey of the taxonomy and structure of living plant groups, with emphasis on field identification of live material. Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory when offered for 4 credits; and one hour class and three hours laboratory when offered for 2 credits Prerequisite: Biol 7 or Biol 9 Offered spring semester in even-numbered years.

BIOL 324 - Formerly 173 - Forest Ecology (4)

The study of the structure, composition, and dynamics of forest communities. Topics include succession, paleocology, biotic interactions, and threats to forest integrity. Laboratory emphasizes methods of vegetation sampling and analysis of ecological data, through intensive study of the campus forest preserve and through field trips to diverse forest types. Fulfills laboratory requirement for the major.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - Offered fall semester annually or biannually.

BIOL 306 - Formerly 178 - Biogeography (3)

The study of the distribution of organisms on earth. Topics include global vegetation zones today and in the past; geological and climatic influences on species distributions; island biogeography; dispersal by plants and animals; and human impact on species distributions and on extinction patterns.
Meets: Three hours class Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - Corequisite: offered during the same semester. Offering to be determined.

BIOL 320 - Formerly 183 - Tropical Marine Ecology (4)

Weekly lecture, laboratory, and pool work at Drew followed by intensive week in the field during spring recess at a site in the Caribbean. Snorkeling-based observations of ecological relationships among reef fish and invertebrates. Also includes the ecology of reefs, sea grass beds, rocky shore, and mangrove habitats. (Extra costs borne by the student are transportation and room and board at off-campus site.) Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Enrollment limit: 12 Signature of instructor required for registration. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - and BIOL 160 - Formerly 9 - Offered spring semester in even-numbered years.
Fulfills: OCE

BIOL 318 - Formerly 186 - Freshwater Ecology (4)

An exploration of physical, chemical, and especially biological components of freshwater ecosystems. Considers lotic (moving water) systems, but emphasizes lentic (standing water) ecosystems. Laboratory concentrates on field and follow-up techniques for collecting and evaluating ecological information. Field work is centered on ponds within the campus arboretum, with field trips to other local freshwater habitats included. Fulfills laboratory requirement for major.
Meets: Three hours class, three hours laboratory Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - and BIOL 160 - Formerly 9 - Offered fall semester annually or biannually.

BIOL 390 - Formerly 191 - Seminar in Biology (2)

Reports and discussions on selected topics in biology. Each student participates in weekly discussions and makes one formal presentation orally on a specific subject investigated in depth through the current literature.
Course may be repeated. Meets: Two hours class Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - , 9, and 22, or permission of instructor. Offering to be determined.

BIOL 370 - Formerly 192 - Topics in Biology (2-4)

Topics that enrich the regular biology curriculum are offered as opportunities arise. Number of credits and prerequisites vary with course topic.
Course may be repeated. Offering to be determined.

BIOL 394 - Formerly 195 - Independent Study in Biology: Literature Research (2-4)

An in-depth study through literature research and written literature review on a topic in biology selected by individual students in conjunction with a faculty member, who will supervise the research. A 35-minute weekly research seminar meeting is required, where students present work in progress and receive logistical guidance.
Course may be repeated. Signature of instructor required for registration. Prerequisite: minimum GPA of 2.00 in the major. Offered every semester.

BIOL 396 - Formerly 196 - Research in Biology (2-4)

An opportunity for upper-level students to design and execute an independent project in biology, including laboratory or field research, under the supervision of biology, neurosciences, or RISE faculty. A one hour weekly research seminar meeting is required, where students present work in progress and receive logistical guidance. Interested students should meet with a faculty member to plan the project and establish the amount of credit before registration. Students normally enroll for two credits, especially when beginning a new project. Students conducting honors research in biology should register for this course at the four-credit level rather than registering for HON 410 - Formerly 109 - and 110. Two semesters of BIOL 396 - Formerly 196 - satisfy one laboratory course requirement toward the major.
May be repeated for credit but at most eight credits of BIOL 394 - Formerly 195 - and 16 may be counted toward requirements for the biology major. Signature of instructor required for registration. Signature of instructor required for registration. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 - Formerly 7 - , 9, and 22, and a minimum GPA of 2.00 in the major. Offered every semester.

AP Exams

Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations

All students with scores of 4 or 5 on the AP biology exam can receive four credits toward the general education breadth requirements in science and need not take a test at Drew to receive these credits. However, students seeking exemption from course requirements for science majors or minors must take a placement test at Drew.

No biology course at Drew is the exact equivalent of AP biology. The faculty recommends that all biology majors take all three introductory courses, because these courses provide lab experiences and depth of treatment beyond the level of most AP courses. However, science students with a score of 4 or 5 may choose to seek exemption from the lecture component of one of the required courses (either BIOL 7 or BIOL 9) by taking a test offered by the biology department before the start of each semester. Contact the biology department chair. Students earning the exemption must still take weekly labs and should register for BIOL 7L (fall) or BIOL 9L (spring).