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Biology
Associate Professor Braker, Chair
Professors Hafner, Martin, Pollock; Associate Professor North; Assistant Professors Baran, Goffredi, Pondella, Schulz, Thompson
On Special Appointment: Adjunct Assistant Professor Schindelman; Adjunct Instructor Tydell
Biology is a rapidly expanding, multifaceted discipline, full of possibilities for undergraduate research and for stimulating graduate study and employment after Occidental. Within an evolutionary framework, our program investigates the interactions between molecules, cells, organisms, populations, and ecosystems that constitute life on earth. Interdisciplinary and integrative by nature, the biology program at Occidental engages both majors and non-majors in a curriculum that emphasizes laboratory and field investigations. Our students are encouraged to collaborate with faculty mentors, whose research employs current methods in addressing questions from the molecular to the global in scale. Students acquire skills from careful observation through hypothesis formulation and experimental design to formal oral and written presentations of results. After participating in the biology program at Occidental, students are prepared for rewarding work and life-long learning, armed with the tools necessary to understand and help explain the complexity of living systems. After completing the major, many students elect to take graduate training toward the Ph.D. in biology or doctorates of medicine or dentistry. Others enter into careers such as biomedical research, teaching, law, or government service.
The Department of Biology is housed within the Bioscience building which is contiguous with the Moore Laboratory of Zoology. Facilities include the bird and mammal collections (70,000 specimens) of Moore Laboratory, greenhouses, facilities for microscopy (scanning and transmission electron and fluorescence), a tissue culture suite and fluorescence-activated cell sorter, fully-equipped molecular biology laboratories, field vehicles, and three research vessels for nearshore marine studies and SCUBA diving. Because of its proximity to the Mojave Desert, the Santa Monica, San Gabriel, and San Bernardino Mountains, and seacoast, Occidental College is ideally suited for field and laboratory studies of environmental biology.
MAJOR: The major consists of nine Biology courses (36 units) plus Senior Comprehensive Seminar (Biology 490, 2 units), and five supporting courses (20 units). Required Biology classes are Bio 105 or Bio 115, Bio 130, Bio 490, and seven additional 200- and 300- level Biology classes that satisfy the breadth and depth requirements defined below.
Two semesters of introductory biology are required. In these courses, students are exposed to basic biological principles and the diversity of life.
The introductory courses may be taken in any order, but at least one should be taken during the first year. One course must be in organismal biology, stressing diversity and the relationship between structure and function (Bio 105 or 115). The second course must be in cellular and molecular biology (Bio 130) and provide a broad introduction to the biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. 100-level Biology courses are not open to senior Biology majors.
To meet the requirement for breadth within Biology, majors will take four classes, one from each of four biology subject areas: Cellular and Molecular Biology (Bio 221 or 224), Environmental Biology (Bio 106, 260, or 270), Evolutionary Biology (Bio 279), and Organismal Biology (Bio 240 or 250). An appropriate 300-level class may substitute for one of the required 200- level classes with approval of Biology chair. In 300-level courses, students engage deeply with a particular specialized subject. Three 300-level courses (at least two of which must be laboratory courses) are required.
One seminar course (Biology 490) is required to fulfill senior comprehensive requirements.
Five supporting classes are required for the major: Two semesters of chemistry (Chemistry 120 or 130, and 220); Calculus I and one other course with a strong quantitative component (this requirement can be filled by Calculus II, Math 146 or 150; Bio 260 or Bio 368; Physics 110, 115, 120 or 125; Psychology 201; or another course with approval of Biology Chair); and one other course within the sciences at the 200 or 300 level.
A course used to fulfill one requirement cannot fulfill another major requirement.
Students intending to apply to health professional programs or graduate programs in Biology should include four semesters of Chemistry, two semesters of Physics, and two semesters of Calculus in their course plan. Pre-professional students are strongly encouraged to consult with the Health Professions Office early in their career. Students planning to apply to graduate programs in Biology are also advised to include research (Biology 395) in their program of study, and may wish to select an emphasis (see below).
Students intending to obtain a teaching certification in biology should contact the Education Department as early as possible for advice on course selection. Additional advice concerning courses and career planning may be obtained from the major advisor.
The Biology Department encourages international study for Biology majors. Among the semester options available are programs in Tropical Biology in Costa Rica, Global Medicine and Public Health in Costa Rica, and direct enrollment at James Cook University in Australia (with strengths in Marine Biology and Tropical Biology). Students may receive credit towards the Biology major and to meet Core distribution requirements. See the International Programs Office and Professor Braker for more information.
EMPHASIS WITHIN THE MAJOR: Students may construct an individual program to meet the Biology major requirements, or they may choose an emphasis in Cell and Molecular Biology, Environmental Biology, or Marine Biology.
Cell and Molecular Biology Emphasis: This emphasis is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career in the health professions or graduate school in cellular or molecular biosciences. Cell and Molecular Biology encompasses a wide range of studies, including: gene expression and regulation, transmission of genes between generations, cell-to-cell communication, cell physiology, the biochemistry of DNA and RNA, the development of a fertilized egg into a multi-cellular organism, the biology of microbes, the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive the specialized functions of the immune system, the nervous system and other organs and tissues. All requirements for the Biology major apply, with the addition that students must take both Bio 221 and Bio 224 as part of their program of study. At least two of the required three courses at the 300 level must be chosen from the following list: Bio 320, 322, 323, 325, 326, 330, 333 and 340. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in research with faculty (Biology 395). Courses in organic chemistry and physics are strongly recommended for students planning to attend graduate and professional schools.
Environmental Biology Emphasis: This emphasis is designed for those who desire a course of study leading to an enhanced level of understanding in basic and applied aspects of ecology and evolution. Course work required for this emphasis provides the basic theoretical and empirical background for understanding the origin and maintenance of biological diversity, the interactions among organisms, and the functioning of ecosystems, as well as practical approaches to the conservation and management of natural resources. All requirements for the Biology major apply. Students are required to take Bio 224, 260 or 270, and 279 or 280. At least two of the three required 300--level courses for the biology major should be chosen from the following list: Bio 325, 340, 369, 378, 380, or another course by approval of the department chair. At lease one of the 200 or 300 level classes chosen for the emphasis must be a course in plant biology 250 or 380). All Environmental Biology students are encouraged to participate in field and laboratory research activities through enrollment in Biology 395 and/or 310. Students are encouraged to take a course in statistics (e.g. Bio 368, Math 150, Psychology 201) and one or more Geology courses (e.g. 105, 215, 245, 345, 365). International study is recommended. Students intending to select this emphasis should consult the appropriate faculty for course selection early in their sophomore year.
Marine Biology Emphasis: The marine emphasis is designed for biology majors who are interested in pursuing careers or graduate school in the marine sciences. Marine science is one of the most integrative fields in biology with research topics ranging from molecular methods for the classification of marine bacteria to the effects of global warming on fisheries. Students are required to satisfy all the requirements for the biology major and must take four of the following upper-division courses: Biology 260, 344, 356, 368, 369, or Geology 245. These courses may also satisfy biology major requirements. In addition to the coursework, students are encouraged to participate in as many of the following activities as their schedules allow: 1) independent or collaborative research with faculty (Bio 395), 2) scuba diving as part of a club or research team, 3) participation in programs (academic year and/or summer) at marine science institutions, 4) participation in faculty led field trips, and/or 5) attendance at seminars on marine topics at Oxy and other nearby campuses. Students graduating with a marine emphasis will have strong lab/field research experience, know the common local marine organisms (plankton to mammals), and be able to discuss the pertinent physical and biological processes affecting the southern California marine area. Students interested in joining this emphasis should monitor our web site at www.oxy.edu/oxy/marinebio and contact one of the marine faculty to discuss their course of study.
MINOR: Six courses (24 units) are required for the minor. These include any three of our introductory courses (Biology 105, 106, 107, 115 and 130) and any three additional courses at the 200 or 300 level. Independent Studies and Advanced Placement credit may not count toward the minor.
WRITING REQUIREMENT: Students majoring in Biology will satisfy the final component of Occidental College's campus-wide writing requirement by successfully completing two courses at the 300-level (or appropriate course work). Students should familiarize themselves with the departmental requirement at the time of declaring the major. See the Writing Program and consult the department chair for additional information.
HONORS: Honors in Biology may be awarded at graduation to qualified students for completing research in one of the broad fields of biology listed under Graduate Study, and preparation of a thesis within the selected area. See the Honors Program and consult the department chair for details. Students intending to apply for Honors should declare their intent in writing to their research advisor and department chair by midway through the junior year.
GRADUATE STUDY: Graduate study toward the degree of Master of Arts under the thesis plan may be undertaken in Biology by properly qualified students. Thesis projects may be elected in any of the following fields: cellular biology, developmental biology, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, neurobiology, biochemistry, comparative physiology, animal behavior, environmental biology, ecology, systematics and evolutionary biology, and marine biology. Graduate courses, numbered 500 and above, are valued at five units unless otherwise noted. Consult the department chair for further information on graduate studies.
102. BIOLOGY ON THE EDGE.
“Extreme” is in the eye of the beholder. From the deepest depths of the oceans, to the edges of our atmosphere, from the coldest driest valley on Antarctica to underwater volcanoes four times hotter than boiling water, from streams like battery acid to the African soda lakes used in mummification, microbes, plants, and animals call these environments home. The study of extremes, and those organisms that can inhabit them, has challenged our concept of the limits of life. This class will explore the various types of extreme environments, how has life adapted to these extremes, and the possible economic potential of extreme biology. This course does not apply to the Biology major and is not available to students who have had more than one Biology course.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: MATH/SCI
103. TOPICS IN BIOLOGY.
Topics vary. Not applicable to the Biology major. Not open to students who have previously taken more than one 100-level Biology course.
Strange Biology. Fascinating and extreme organisms are used to elucidate basic concepts of biology. Topics will include the biochemistry of life, the cell, genetics, reproduction, development, diversity of organisms, evolution and environmental biology. For example, discussion of the role of water in the living cell will focus on tardigrades (water bears); a section on reproduction will feature the Silver Salamander, an all female (not hermaphroditic) species; study of digestive processes will consider the Tarantula Hawk, a vegetarian serial killer.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: MATH/SCI
104. INTRODUCTION TO THE BIOLOGY OF STEM CELL THERAPEUTICS.
An introduction to the basic research of stem cells, potential sources, stem cell characterization, and stem cell development for therapeutic applications. The student will also gain an understanding in aspects of developmental biology, and the progression of translational research from basic science to clinical utility. Designed for non-science majors.
105. MARINE BIOLOGY.
This course will be an introductory survey of marine organisms and their environment. It will cover fishes, invertebrates, mammals, reptiles and algae. Included will be an investigation of behavior, ecology, adaptations, and environmental relationships to humans. An emphasis will be placed on forms common to California. Includes one 3-hour lab period per week and field trips will be included during the laboratory period. (Labs may take longer than the scheduled laboratory period to accommodate field trips.)
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
106. BIOLOGY OF CALIFORNIA.
A component of the California Environment Semester. Enrollment limited to first-year students enrolled in the California Environmental Science Semester.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
107. BIODIVERSITY.
Biodiversity, and threats to biodiversity throughout the world, but most especially in Southern California, will be explored through lecture, laboratory, and field study. Examples will be drawn from terrestrial and marine systems. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week and possible Saturday field trips to be arranged. Not applicable to the Biology major.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
115. GENERAL ZOOLOGY.
An introduction to the diversity, comparative anatomy and physiology of animals. Emphasis is placed on the classification of animals, how animals are adapted to the environment, and the evolutionary relationships between the phyla. This class is designed for science majors. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
130. INTRODUCTION TO CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOCHEMISTRY.
A concept-driven survey course designed to provide broad introduction to the biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Topics include structure/function relationships of biological macromolecules; the roles of such molecules in cellular metabolism and membrane biology; molecular biology of DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis; the cell cycle; elementary genetics; and cellular communication. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Chemistry 120 or 130 or permission of instructor. Prerequisites may be taken concurrently with 130.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
197. INDEPENDENT STUDY.
Research in biology, for students who do not have advanced competence in biology (see Biology 397). Prerequisites: permission of instructor and approval of department.
2 units
221. MOLECULAR BIOLOGY.
The study of DNA replication; transcription, processing and translation of gene products; molecular mapping of genes; chromosomal organization; molecular regulation mechanisms in prokaryotes and eukaryotes; mutation and repair processes; recombination mechanisms; and the techniques to study these processes. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week plus two hours arranged. Prerequisites: Biology 130 and Chemistry 220; or permission of instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
224-524. GENETIC ANALYSIS.
Intensive, concept-driven exploration of genetic information transfer between generations. Topics include: coverage of Mendelian principles, sex-linkage, chromosomal mapping, parasexual genetics, fine structure genetic mapping, and cytoplasmic inheritance in eukaryotes. Genetic systems of bacteria and viruses, including gene regulation and special topics in prokaryotic genetics. Allelic and genetic interactions at the phenotypic level will be studied along with developmental genetics, quantitative characters, multiple alleles, population and evolutionary genetics, and modern aspects of molecular genetics. Includes one three-hour laboratory session per week plus two hours arranged. Prerequisites: Chemistry 120 or 130, and Biology 130, or permission of instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
240-540. VERTEBRATE PHYSIOLOGY.
Physical and metabolic activities of cells and tissues; properties of the cellular environment; regulatory and homeostatic functions of organ systems. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week plus two hours arranged. Prerequisites: Biology 115 and 130 or permission of instructor (Bio 130 may be taken concurrently).
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
250. PLANT FORM AND FUNCTION.
All aspects of plant biology, including biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, evolution, and ecology. Laboratories will emphasize experimental approaches to answering questions of form and function. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Biology 115 or 120.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
260. BIODIVERSITY AND ORGANIZATION OF MARINE AND TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS.
Introduction to marine and terrestrial ecosystems and the physical and biological attributes contributing to their organization. This course will focus in alternating years on either the marine environment of the Southern California Bight or the terrestrial environment of Southern California. It will introduce basic physical attributes and the organisms of these dynamic ecosystems. Students will learn how to collect data in field and laboratory settings, conduct basic analyses and produce graphics. This course will serve to prepare students for focused upper division courses and independent research. Labs may take longer than the scheduled lab period to accommodate field trips. Includes one three-hour laboratory session per week. Prerequisites: Biology 105 or 115, or permission of the instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
270. ECOLOGY.
Ecology explores the interactions between organisms and their biotic and abiotic environments at a variety of spatial and temporal scales. Topics include factors affecting organisms at the population, community, and ecosystem levels, and the effect of human actions on natural systems. Practical aspects of studying ecology involve work in the laboratory, computer simulations and modeling, and field work. This course emphasizes the fundamentals of study design, sampling, field techniques, data analysis, and written and oral presentation of results. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week and weekend field trips to be arranged. Not open to first-year students fall semester without permission of instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
279. EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY.
A detailed analysis of the causes and consequences of biological evolution. The focus here is on understanding basic evolutionary mechanisms, with plant and animal examples used to illustrate and clarify the fundamentals of the evolutionary process. Classical and recent contributions to our understanding of evolutionary biology are examined, including population genetics, theoretical models, geographical variation, speciation, biogeography, phylogeny reconstruction, molecular evolution, macroevolution, and the evolution of Homo sapiens. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: One previous biology course with laboratory, or permission of instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
280. EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY.
A detailed analysis of the causes and cvonsequences of biological evolution. The focus here is on understanding basic evolutionary mechanisms, with plant and animal examples used to illustrate and clarify the fundamentals of the evolutionary process. Classical and recent contributions to our understanding of evolutionary biology are examined, including population genetics, theoretical models, geographical variation, speciation, biogeography, phylogeny reconstruction, molecular evolution, macroevolution, and the evolution of Homo sapiens.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: MATH/SCI
310-510. MUSEUM SCIENCE.
Introduction to the principles and practice of museology and the functioning of a research natural history museum. Emphasis will be on the development of the “museum conscience” and attendant curatorial skills through extensive training as a curatorial assistant in the bird and mammal collections of the Moore Laboratory of Zoology (world’s largest collection of Mexican birds). Prerequisite: permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit.
2 units
320. DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY.
Animal development with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms that regulate cell fate, cell adhesion and motility, and the formation of different tissue types. Cell signaling pathways and gene regulatory mechanisms that control development and are relevant to adult stem cell biology and cancer biology are stressed throughout the course. The laboratory focuses on major invertebrate and vertebrate model organisms and both classical and molecular genetic approaches used to study animal development. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week plus 1-2 hours arranged. Prerequisites: Biology 115, 130, and 221 or 224 (Biology 224 is strongly recommended). Co-requisite: Biology 320L.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
320L. DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY LABORATORY.
An introduction to classical and molecular methodologies used to study animal development. The laboratory focuses on early embryonic development of major invertebrate and vertebrate model organisms: sea urchins, C. elegans, zebrafish and chick. Co-requisite: Biology 320. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
322. BIOCHEMISTRY.
Survey of the basic principles that power biological processes in all living organisms. Includes introduction to biochemical techniques, enzyme structure and function, intermediary metabolism, synthesis and degradation of biological macromolecules, information transfer, and a concept-driven integration of these subjects into a biological context. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Biology 130 and Chemistry 221; Chemistry 221 may be taken concurrently with Biology 322. Co-requisite: Biology 322L.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
322L. BIOCHEMISTRY LABORATORY.
Laboratory techniques in biochemistry including protein purification, chromatography, crystallography, enzyme kinetics, and computer-aided structural analysis. Co-requisite: Biology 322. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
323-523. HISTOLOGY.
An introduction to histology. Lectures present the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs in healthy and diseased conditions. The laboratory introduces students to preparation of tissue for paraffin, plastic and cryostat sectioning and examination by light and electron microscopy. Students work on projects of their own choice. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week plus two hours arranged. Prerequisites: Biology 105 or 115 and 130.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
323L. HISTOLOGY LABORATORY.
Laboratory techniques in histology. Co-requisite: Biology 323. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
325-525. MICROBIAL DIVERSITY.
An introduction to the world of microbes, including viruses, archaea, bacteria, and simple eukaryotes, and their role in shaping and sustaining life on Earth. Emphases will be placed on structure, metabolism and bioenergetics, physiological and biochemical adaptations to unusual environments, phylogenetic analysis, biotechnology, microbial ecology and biological interactions, including plant and animal symbioses. Laboratory exercises will include an exploration of microscopy, cultivation, biochemical techniques, and molecualr tools for studying microorganisms. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Biology 130 or permission of the instructor, Biology 221 or 224 strongly recommended.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
325L. MICROBIAL DIVERSITY LABORATORY.
Laboratory techniques in microbial diversity. Co-requisite: Biology 325. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
330-530. IMMUNOLOGY.
Introduction to current concepts of immunology, including immunoglobulin structure and function, T cells and B cells, cell-cell cooperation in the immune response and the role of the major histocompatibility complex. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week plus two hours arranged. Prerequisites: Biology 221 (which may be taken concurrently) or permission of instructor. Co-requisite: Biology 330L.
330L. IMMUNOLOGY LABORATORY.
Introduction to essential immunological techniques including immunization and immunoassay such as ELISA; generation of hybridomas and screening and characterizing monoclonal antibodies; and introduction to other techniques such as FACS. Co-requisite: Biology 330. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
333-533. NEUROBIOLOGY.
Emphasis on cell biology and phsyiology of neurons. Development and plasticity of the nervous system in invertebrates and vertebrates. Overview of selected central nervous system structures and their function and the cellular and molecular basis of selected nervous system diseases and disorders. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week plus 1-2 hours arranged. Prerequisites: Biology 130 and Biology 240.
333L. NEUROBIOLOGY LABORATORY.
Laboratory techniques in neurobiology. Co-requisite: Biology 323. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
340-540. ADVANCED ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY.
Dynamic physiological properties will be examined in single cells, tissues, and whole organisms. Emphasis will be placed on the physiology of excitable cells and their integration in the whole animal. Laboratories will utilize advanced recording techniques including microelectrodes, isometric tension measurements, semi-intact preparations and modern electronics. Prerequisite: Biology 240.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
340L. ADVANCED ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY LABORATORY.
Fundamental physiological processes will be investigated using advanced recording techniques including microelectrodes, isometric tension measurements, semi-intact preparations and modern electronics. Co-requisite: Biology 340. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
344. INVERTEBRATE MORPHOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY.
The structure and functional organization of animal-like protists and invertebrates are examined as adaptations to life in specific habitats. The current use of these organisms in applied systems such as aquaculture and as models to study basic biological processes are discussed. Marine organisms and parasites are emphasized. The phylogenetic relationships between taxa are also debated. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week plus two hours arranged. Prerequisites: Biology 105 or 115, and 130 or permission of instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
344L. INVERTEBRATE MORPHOLOGY LABORATORY.
Field and laboratory exercises designed to 1) further expose students to invertebrate diversity, 2) examine and experiment with physiological processes such as locomotion, nutrient allocation, excretion, sensory function, and reproduction, 3) introduce parasite life cycles and parasite-host interactions, and 4) understand animal relationships based on morphological and molecular evidence. Co-requisite: Biology 323. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
356-556. THE BIOLOGY OF MARINE FISHES.
The biology of marine fishes begins with a study of the phylogenetic evolution of fishes. Within this context it discusses the physiology, ecology and behavior of marine fishes utilizing examples from our local fauna. Advanced methods of studying marine fishes will be covered with an emphasis on field research in which the class will visit various marine habitats throughout southern California. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. (Labs may take longer than the scheduled laboratory period to accommodate field trips.) Prerequisite: Biology 115 or 120 or permission of instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
356L. MARINE FISHES LABORATORY.
Laboratory techniques in marine fishes. Co-requisite: Biology 356. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
369-569. BIOLOGICAL OCEANOGRAPHY.
Biological oceanography will focus on the biology of the open ocean with emphasis placed on relating parameters of the physical-chemical ocean to the distribution and abundance of marine organisms. We will focus on understanding the physical and biological processes of the southern California marine area using field and laboratory techniques. Using examples from our local ecosystem, students will explore the intricacies of macro scale oceanographic processes. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. (Labs may take longer than the scheduled laboratory period to accommodate field trips.) Prerequisite: Biology 260 or permission of instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
369L. OCEANOGRAPHY LABORATORY.
Laboratory techniques in oceanography. Co-requisite: Biology 369. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
378-578. ANIMAL BEHAVIOR.
Emphasizes the evolutionary approach to the study of animal behavior, drawing broadly from the various disciplines within biology concerned with the factors that determine which organisms survive and reproduce. The course material will be divided into four broad categories: sensory capabilities, feeding patterns, spacing patterns, and reproduction. For each topic, theory and application will be presented. Students will analyze research papers and lead discussions on an aspect of each major topic. The laboratory portion of the course will focus on observational and experimental approaches to studying animal behavior in the lab and in the field. We will make use of local resources such as zoos, aquaria, wildlife conservation areas, veterinarians, and animal rehabilitation facilities. An independent research project is required. This course is designed for biology majors, although it would be appropriate for students from other majors. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week and weekend field trips to be announced. Prerequisite: Biology 115. Biology 270 and/or 279 are recommended.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
378L. ANIMAL BEHAVIOR LABORATORY.
Laboratory techniques in animal behavior. Co-requisite: Biology 378. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
380. PLANT PHYSIOLOGICAL ECOLOGY.
An examination of physiological processes in plants, including energy conversion, gas exchange, nutrient uptake, and water relations, and how they are affected by environmental conditions. The emphasis will be on how to quantify and predict plant physiological responses to the particular ecological pressures of Southern California. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Biology 250 or permission of instructor.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
380L. PLANT PHYSIOLOGICAL ECOLOGY LABORATORY.
Instruction in contemporary physiological and environmental diagnostic instrumentation and analytical methods will be followed by directed and independent investigations in the laboratory and field. Day-long and overnight field trips will be scheduled. Co-requisite: Biology 380. Graded on a Credit/No Credit basis only.
1 unit
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: LAB-SCI
390. SPECIAL TOPICS IN BIOLOGY.
This seminar course will teach students skills needed to read and critically analyze original journal articles. Some lectures will be given, but the bulk of the course will consist of student-led discussions and analysis of scientific papers. Students will improve their communication skills by discussing papers and leading discussions, by writing a research paper and editing each others’ papers, and by preparing PowerPoint presentations as an aid for leading discussions. May be taken more than once for credit, as the topics will differ each semester, but can only be used to fulfill one of the requirements for the Biology major. Cannot be used to fill the Biology requirement of the Biochemistry major.
CORE REQUIREMENT MET: MATH/SCI
395. RESEARCH.
Research for approximately five hours per week for students to study in an area not otherwise included in the departmental curriculum. Prerequisite: permission of instructor and approval of department.
2 or 4 units
397-597. INDEPENDENT STUDY.
Directed research with individual faculty members for students with advanced competency to study in an area not otherwise included in the departmental curriculum. In addition to topics that may be studied on the Occidental campus, courses offered at the marine station of the Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies may be taken for credit under this course number. Prerequisite: permission of instructor and approval of department.
2, 4, or 5 units
490. SENIOR SEMINAR.
Topics of these seminars will be announced at spring pre-registration. Each senior must pass one seminar for the comprehensive requirement. Each meets two hours per week, with extensive reading, discussion, and a major oral presentation by each student.
2 units
499. HONORS.
Prerequisite: permission of department.
501. GRADUATE RESEARCH.
Supervised investigation by properly qualified graduate students working toward a Master’s degree. Students may not register for more than two courses of Research during any semester.
5 units
590. THESIS FOR MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE.
Preparation of the Master’s thesis in consultation with the advisor and committee members. Prerequisites: at least two courses of Biology 501 and permission of the department.
5 units
595. GRADUATE SEMINAR.
This special-topics seminar course will be offered as needed to graduate students in the department. May be repeated once for credit.
2 units
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