Course Search Results

  • 3.00 Credits

    Explores the biological consequences of current environment change including rising atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, increased temperature, altered precipitation patterns, increased UV radiation, nitrogen deposition, the spread of exotic species, and land-use changes. Readings will be drawn from primary scientific literature.
  • 3.00 Credits

    Examines mechanisms of evolutionary change, evidence for evolution, and speciation. The course explores how evolutionary principles can help us understand characteristics and behavior of organisms. Applications of evolutionary biology to other fields of study such as medicine, conservation, and ecology will be discussed.
  • 3.00 Credits

    Investigates mushrooms, molds, mycotoxins and human mycoses. This course introduces the student to fungal ecology, fungal classification, molecular systematics, and an overview of emerging animal and human pathogens. The course utilizes hands-on student-driven, inquiry-based practices. Students will use data analysis and research tools to investigate fungal morphogenesis; learn molecular diagnostics and culture techniques; and study ecological relationships of mushrooms inhabiting forest ecosystems.
  • 3.00 Credits

    Surveys biology of birds including anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology and other aspects. There are lecture, laboratory, and field components to this course. Instruction will include identification of regional birds by site, vocalization, and habitat preference.
  • 3.00 Credits

    Introduces the student to the anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, evolution, and taxonomy of fishes. This course will provide students with an introduction to the biology and taxonomy of fishes. Lectures will emphasize evolution and classification of major fish lineages, general fish anatomy and physiology, natural history, and conservation. Labs will concentrate on sampling techniques, identification, and life history of local and regional ichthyofauna.
  • 3.00 Credits

    Examines the biology, evolution, ecology, behavior, and reproduction of amphibians (salamanders, frogs, caecilians) and reptiles (lizards, snakes, tuatara, turtles, crocodilians). Laboratory sessions focus on survey methods, identification, and habitats of amphibians and reptiles. Emphasis is placed on the use of the scientific method, the appropriate design of experiments, and the analysis of data.GC GC
  • 3.00 Credits

    Introduces students to the application of genetic data for the conservation and management of natural resources. Emphasis will be placed on the use of molecular genetic methods to define management or conservation units and prioritizing these units for conservation delivery. The course will also explore how evolutionary forces shape genetic diversity and why this is important for conservation and sustainability of natural resources.
  • 3.00 Credits

    Presents significant United States Federal and Pennsylvania legislation and regulations pertinent to the study, protection and management of our biological resources. The legislation and rulemaking processes relevant to environmental issues will be investigated. The biological basis for resource management decisions and the role of the scientist in advocating, writing and implementing environmental legislation and regulations will be examined in detail.
  • 3.00 Credits

    Introduces students to the interaction of people and benefits derived from their use of aquatic resources. The course involves the biological, ecological, economic and sociological components of aquatic systems that provides aesthetic and other non-tangible benefits to people as well as fish for consumption. The course is designed to fulfill three credits of the human dimension requirement for certification by The American Fisheries Society.
  • 3.00 Credits

    Introduces the evaluation and management of ponds and small lakes for recreational benefit.