Courses of Instruction
ZOOLOGY (ZOO-Arts and Science)
Note: Unless specifically noted in a course description, the following describes the zoology course numbering system:
100-level: ordinarily taken at introductory level, with no prerequisite.
200-level: prerequisite is six semester hours of college biological science; in addition, certain course prerequisites may be stated. Ordinarily taken by sophomores.
300-level: prerequisite is six semester hours of biological science; specific course prerequisites may be stated for some courses.
400/500 level: either undergraduate or graduate credit may be earned. Prerequisite is 18 semester hours of biological science; other courses may be specified as prerequisites as well.
Note: Only three credit hours of research or internship apply toward advanced hour requirement in zoology. All zoology courses satisfy the CAS-D biological science requirement. Laboratory courses are noted at the end of each description.
MPF, MPT 113 Animal Diversity (4)
Diversity of animal life examined in context of origin, evolutionary history, integration, sensitivity to perturbation, and interactions with humans. Assignments encourage students to synthesize previous laboratory experiences, explore current issues, or investigate an organism of special interest. Successful completion of laboratory required. (Offered at Hamilton and Middletown campuses.) 3 Lec. 1 Lab. IVA, LAB. CAS-D/LAB.
MPF, MPT 114 Principles of Biology (4)
Examines basic biological concepts of cell theory, inheritance, and physiology. Prepares students for advanced study in biology and serves as a good overview for other students. (Offered at Hamilton and Middletown campuses.) 3 Lec. 1 Lab. IVA, LAB. CAS-D/LAB.
114H Animal Diversity Honors Seminar (1)
Seminar for departmental honors program students. Particular topics in zoology explored beyond the introductory level. Seminar format is variable, but usually includes faculty lectures and visits to zoology laboratory facilities; term papers and oral presentations may be required. Prerequisite: concurrent registration or prior completion of ZOO 113, 116 and permission of instructor.
MPF, MPT 115 Biological Concepts: Ecology, Evolution, Genetics, and Diversity (4)
Integrated study of microbes, plants, and animals emphasizing biological diversity and interdependence of life and environment. Cross-listed with BOT and MBI 115. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. IVA, LAB. CAS-D/LAB.
MPF, MPT 116 Biological Concepts: Structure, Function, Cellular and Molecular Biology (4)
Biological principles common to microbes, plants, and animals. Cross-listed with BOT and MBI 116. 3 Lec.1 Lab. IVA, LAB. CAS-D/LAB.
MPF, MPT 121 Environmental Biology (3)
Local, regional, and global environmental issues examined in the context of current ecological theory and principles of resource use and management. Weekly discussion period provides opportunity for interaction. Zoology majors may not enroll in this course. IVA. CAS-D.
MPF 161 Human Physiology (4)
Examines physiological systems of the human body. Lecture provides basic information regarding function of these systems from an integrative perspective. In laboratory, use hands-on approach and work in small groups to conduct experiments and/or carry out projects to illustrate the physiological concepts presented in lecture. Zoology majors may not enroll in this course. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. IVA, LAB. CAS-D/LAB.
MPF 171 Human Anatomy and Physiology (4)
Study of the structure and function of the human body including basic cellular principles, embryology, reproductive system, endocrine system, and nervous system. Does not count toward a zoology major. (Offered at Hamilton and Middletown campuses.) 3 Lec. 1 Lab. IVA, LAB. CAS-D/LAB.
172 Human Anatomy and Physiology (4)
Study of the structure and function of the human body including respiratory, digestive, urinary, skeletal, muscular, and circulatory systems. Does not count toward a zoology major. (Offered at Hamilton and Middletown campuses.) Prerequisite: ZOO 171. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
175 Environmental Science Seminar (1)
Introduces students to the multidisciplinary nature of environmental science and the solution of environmental problems. Cross-listed with BOT/CHM/GEO/GLG/MBI/MTH/ STA 175.
201 Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates (4)
Anatomy of typical vertebrates. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
MPT 202 Patterns in Development (4)
Integration of experimental data into a survey of animal development with emphasis on mechanisms that control the development of form. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
MPT 203 Introduction to Cell Biology (3)
Introductory study of eukaryotic cell structure and function. Prerequisite: ZOO 114 or 116.
MPT 204 Fundamentals of Ecology (3)
Interrelationships between organisms and their environments. Prerequisite: one course in the biological sciences (BOT, MBI, or ZOO) or WCP 121, or permission of the instructor.
MPT 206 Evolutionary Biology (3)
Development of major evolutionary concepts and application of such concepts within the biological sciences and related scientific fields are examined. Prerequisite: one year of biological science.
MPT 232 Human Heredity (3)
Introduction to the basic principles of genetics and their relevance to human society. Zoology majors may not enroll in this course. (Offered at Hamilton campus.) Cross-listed with BOT 232.
275 Principles of Environmental Science (3)
Introduction to the principles and methodologies of environmental science. Topics include contamination of earth systems and pollution mitigation; use, abuse and conservation of natural resources; land use, conservation and preservation, planning and management and the value of biodiversity and wilderness. Emphasis is on the multidisciplinary nature of environmental problems and their solutions. Prerequisites: At least one course from each of the following three categories is either pre- or co-requisite: 1) B/M/Z 115 or BOT 191 or ZOO 113; 2) CHM 111 or CHM 142/5; and 3) GLG 111/115 or GEO 121. Cross-listed with BOT/CHM/GEO/GLG/MBI/ STA 275.
MPT 305 Animal Physiology (4)
Study of general physiological principles necessary for basic understanding of life processes. Prerequisite: one year of chemistry, junior standing, and at least one 200-level zoology course, or permission of instructor. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
MPT 311 Vertebrate Zoology (4)
Taxonomy and life histories with emphasis on local fauna. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
MPT 312 Invertebrate Zoology (4)
Morphology and taxonomy with emphasis on local fauna. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
320 Directed Research in Zoology (1-3)
Problems involving library, field, or laboratory work. Only three semester hours of ZOO 320 can be used to fulfill advanced hour requirement.
MPT 325 Pathophysiology (4)
Study of relationship between normal body functioning and physiologic changes that occur as the result of illness. Zoology majors may not enroll in this course. Prerequisite: ZOO 172 or equivalent.
328 Functional Microanatomy (4)
Microscopic anatomy of structural and functional components of animal tissue. Laboratory emphasizes viewing various tissues and organ systems using the light microscope. Lectures correlate structure with function of these tissues. Prerequisite: ZOO 305. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
333 Field Ecology (2)
Experience in collection, analysis, and interpretation of ecological data. Prerequisite: ZOO 204. 1 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
340 Internship (1-20)
Credit/no-credit only. Supplements the basic requirements for a zoology major by providing credit for practical work experience. Experiences may include, but are not limited to, positions with research laboratories, consulting firms, zoos, museums, industrial laboratories, and government agencies. Total semester hours of ZOO 340 and/or 277, 377, 419R, 477, or 320 used to fulfill advanced hour requirement cannot exceed three. Prerequisite: internship agreement with zoology faculty and sophomore standing with at least seven hours in zoology.
MPT 342 Genetics (3)
Introduction to basic principles of genetic organization, function, and inheritance. Prerequisite: one year of chemistry, junior standing, and at least one 200-level zoology course, or permission of instructor. Cross-listed with BOT 342.
351 Environmental Education: Focus on Natural History (4)
Introduction to the field of environmental education emphasizing the natural history and interpretation of the forests, prairies, and wetlands of southwestern Ohio. Cross-listed with BOT 351. Prerequisite: ZOO/BOT/ MBI 115. 2 Lec. 1 Lab.
370 Issues in Medicine (3)
This course is a discussion-based seminar focusing on issues and value conflicts facing physicians in contemporary health care environments. Emphasizes real-life situations and cases and will have eight practicing doctors in fields ranging from surgery to psychiatry as participants. The course makes extensive use of new medical information technology. Prerequisites (s): BOT/MBI/ ZOO 115 and 116; CHM 241 and 242, and permission of the instructor. This course does not count toward a Zoology major.
395 Primate Biology and Behavior (3)
Taxonomic survey of the Order Primates including anatomy, distribution, adaptation, and morphological characteristics of the various taxa. Selected primatological topics including primate conservation, reproduction and development, manipulation, and tools. Prerequisite: junior or senior status; for ATH majors, six advanced hours in ATH including ATH 255; for ZOO majors, six advanced hours in ZOO including ZOO 206; for others, permission of instructor. 2 Lec.
MPC 400 Capstone Seminar: Contemporary Issues in Zoology (3)
Requires seniors to critically evaluate and form positions on current biological issues of national interest. Format, theme, and topics change from term to term. Examples of themes include the management and use of natural resources, preservation of biological diversity, nature of the medical profession, and issues raised by advances in biotechnology. Faculty as well as other recognized authorities participate.
401/501 General Entomology (4)
Introductory study of insects. Prerequisite: ZOO 115 or 312 or equivalent. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
403/503 Biology of Dinosaurs (4)
Introduction to the evolution, diversity, ecology, physiology, and behavior of dinosaurs and other Mesozoic organisms, with a consideration of the history of their discovery and study. The laboratory and museum field trip will emphasize the use of dinosaurs for teaching biological concepts. Prerequisite: teaching certification or 18 semester hours of biological science or permission of instructor.
405/505 Parasitology (4)
Principles of host-parasite interactions with an emphasis on the physiology, ecology, and evolution of protozoan, nematode, and flatworm parasites. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
407/507 Ichthyology (4)
General biology of fishes: their systematics and taxonomy, anatomy, systemic physiology, ecology, zoogeography, and management. Laboratory includes methods of collection and identification; studies of selected structural, functional, and behavioral attributes of fishes; and four field trips. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
408/508 Ornithology (4)
General biological principles of birds, their classification, evolution, adaptations, ecology, behavior, and relationship to humans. Prerequisite: two advanced courses in biological sciences or permission of instructor. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
409/509 Herpetology (4)
Classification, speciation, morphological adaptations, mode of life, history, and ecology of amphibians and reptiles; emphasis on recent advances in the field. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
MPC 419R Independent Research Capstone (3)
Provides students with an in-depth research experience. Requires that students understand scientific literature in a specific area, develop a research proposal, perform research, write a summary report, and orally present the research findings. Prerequisite: permission of instructor and department chair or chair designate.
422/522 Evolution and Biosystematics (3)
Detailed examination of evolutionary and biosystematic concepts that have promoted advances in understanding the origins, structure, function, behavior, and distribution of present-day organisms and taxa. Prerequisite: ZOO 342 or equivalent. Offered infrequently.
424/524 Biological Instrumentation (4)
Theory and application of modern biological instrumentation and techniques. Basic and advanced skills including use, maintenance and calibration of biological instruments. Prerequisites: B/M/Z 115/116 or equivalent, CHM 141/142 or equivalent.
MPC 431/531 Winter Biology (3)
Study of adaptations for survival and life in the winter environment with particular emphasis on effects of ice, snow, and low temperature. Prerequisite: ZOO 305 or equivalent or permission of instructor.
437/537 Field Methods in Population Ecology (1)
A seven and one half week Sprint course designed to introduce field and lab methods used to sample plant and animal populations and quantify interspecific competition. Prerequisite: a course in ecology.
442/542 Mechanisms of Animal Development (3)
Analysis of problems in animal development, including gametogenesis, cell lineage, organogenesis, cell proliferation, and pattern formation. Prerequisite: ZOO 202 and 342, or equivalent. Offered infrequently.
443/543 Molecular Cell Biology (3)
Microscopic structure, chemical composition, and function of cytoplasmic and nuclear components of animal, plant, and bacterial cells. Prerequisites: ZOO 203, ZOO 342 and organic chemistry.
MPC 444/544 Molecular Biology (3)
Emphasis on molecular biology of the gene and the molecular basis of gene action. Prerequisite: organic or physical chemistry and ZOO 342 or equivalent.
449/549 Biology of Cancer (3)
Study of cancer in animals at the molecular, cellular, and physiological levels. Causes, development, and treatment of cancer are examined as well as the characteristics of the 10 most common cancers in humans. Prerequisite: ZOO 203, 342, and organic chemistry.
MPC 452/552 Nerve and Muscle Physiology (4)
Study of nervous, muscular, and circulatory systems in a diversity of organisms (vertebrates and invertebrates). Experience with experimental techniques used to study these systems. Prerequisite: ZOO 305 and 202 or ZOO 203 or 342, CHM 242 or 332, or permission of instructor. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
MPC 453/553 Animal Physiological Ecology (4)
Study of physiological and behavioral adaptations of organisms. Topics include discussions of flying, diving, and swimming adaptations as well as consideration of specific environments such as deserts, caves, and estuaries. Prerequisite: ZOO 204, 305, or equivalent, and permission of instructor. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
MPC 454/554 Endocrinology (3)
Study of the role of chemical messengers and hormones from endocrine and neural origin, in control of physiological processes. Includes review and discussion of current techniques and methodologies in the literature. Prerequisite: ZOO 305 and CHM 241. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
455/555 Endocrine Methodology (1)
Students learn techniques in endocrine and neuroendocrine research; analyze and present experimental results; and gain experience reviewing the primary literature. Concurrent course: ZOO 454/554.
456/556 Cardiopulmonary Physiology (4)
Physiology of cardiovascular and pulmonary systems in normal state, and some examples of abnormal states that illustrate control mechanisms. Integration of these two systems together and with other systems. Prerequisite: ZOO 305. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
457/557 Neuroanatomy (3)
Study of structural and functional organization of the mammalian central nervous system. Emphasis on organization of and current methodologies used in study of major neuroanatomical pathways and neurotransmitters of mammalian brain and spinal cord. Includes computer-assisted imaging of brain structures and methods of data analysis. Prerequisite: ZOO 305. CAS-D.
458/558 Nueroanatomical Methods (1)
Students review basic brain anatomy and review techniques in neuroanatomical research. Students gain experience in data collection and analysis and neuroimaging methods. Concurrent course: ZOO 457 for ZOO 458; none for ZOO 558.
459/559 Methods in Neurophysiology (1)
Application of basic techniques in neurophysiological research. Includes collection, analysis, interpretation and presentation of experimental results and review of the primary literature. Prerequisite: ZOO 459: ZOO 305; ZOO 559: Graduate standing.
460/560 Principles of Animal Surgery (2)
Rationale, regulation, and techniques of animal use and surgery in research settings. Orientation for the use of any mammalian species in research. Undergraduates complete one protocol approval form using a Lab Animal Science article. Graduate students complete three written evaluations or critiques of animal proposals and articles. 1 Lec.
MPC 462/562 Environmental Toxicology and Risk Assessment (4)
Applied study of toxicology from the molecular to the ecosystem level of organization. Materials presented in the context of toxicology as an interdisciplinary, problem-solving science utilizing the principles of ecological risk assessment. Three hours of lecture and one hour of student-led discussion per week. Prerequisite: ZOO 204 and 305, or equivalent, and a year of organic chemistry or permission of instructor.
MPT 463/563 Limnology (4)
Physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of freshwater ecosystems. Prerequisite: ZOO 204 or equivalent, a year of chemistry, or permission of instructor. 3 Lec. 1 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
464/564 Laboratory in Cell and Molecular Biology (3)
An in-depth, hands-on laboratory experience that supplements any of the 400 level cell, developmental, genetic, or molecular biology courses in zoology. Emphasis is on techniques used in modern cell and molecular biology. Prerequisites: Credit for or concurrent enrollment in ZOO 442/542, ZOO 443/543, ZOO 444/544, ZOO 449/549 or permission of instructor.
MPC 465/565 Animal Behavior (4)
Evolutionary approach to the study of animal behavior with emphasis upon the description, measurement, and interpretation of behavior of animals. Emphasizes a problemsolving approach to help students understand how and why behavior influences the ways in which animals live and reproduce. Emphasizes examination of behavior using a combination of lectures, discussions, and laboratory experiences. Students gain experience in evaluating published scientific research as well as data gathered in lab exercises and an independent research project. Prerequisite: nine hours of advanced courses in biological science and a course in statistics or permission of instructor. 2 Lec. 2 Lab. CAS-D/LAB.
MPC 467/567 Conservation Biology (3)
Principles of ecology and organismal biology applicable to conservation of uncommon plant and animal populations or ecosystems as related to anthropogenic influences and relevant legislation. Prerequisites: An introductory course in biology and ZOO 204 or BOT 401 or equivalent.
469/569 Neurophysiology (3)
Study of the physiology of the central nervous system with emphasis on the cellular and molecular basis of signal transmission in the brain. Includes a review of current techniques and topics in the literature. Prerequisites: ZOO 469: ZOO 305 or equivalent; ZOO 569: graduate standing. Concurrent course: ZOO 469: ZOO 459; ZOO 569: none.
471/571 Molecular Physiology (3)
Emphasis on how modern biological techniques are applied to the understanding of molecular physiology in both the normal and abnormal disease states. Specific topics will be complemented with current literature to illustrate investigations into physiology at the cellular and molecular level. Prerequisites: ZOO 305 and a 200-level (or higher) course in molecular/cell biology.
481/581 Theory of Electron Microscopy (2)
Principles and theory of scanning and transmission electron microscopy and advanced microscopies.
482/582 Scanning Electron Microscopy Laboratory (2)
Practical course providing training in scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Sample preparation, SEM operation, darkroom work, manuscript preparation, and an individual research project. Co- or Prerequisite: BOT/ ZOO 481/581 and permission of instructor.
483/583 Transmission Electron Microscopy Laboratory (3)
Practical course in TEM: specimen preparation, microscope usage, data collection, and photographic plate preparation. Co- or Prerequisite: BOT/ ZOO 481/581 and permission of instructor.
491/492 Seminar in Zoology (1,1)
Review and discussion of topics in zoology. Prerequisite: senior zoology major or permission of instructor.
MPC 494 Sustainability Perspectives in Resources and Business (3)
Addresses the need for interdisciplinary understanding of the pattern of declining quantities of critical resources and growing public awareness of environmental degradation, an understanding of relevant ecosystems, social and economic institutions and policy, and the prospects for the business community to facilitate resolution of these concerns. Three alternative prerequisites: (A) senior standing as a business major and one of BOT 131 or GLG 121 or ZOO 121; or (B) senior standing as a science major and ECO 201 and 202; or (C) senior standing and completion of Thematic Sequence ECO 5 Sustainable Systems. Cross-listed with BOT, GEO, and GLG 494.
497/597 Socio-Ecology of Primates (3)
Ethology and ecology of living prosimians, monkeys, and apes, from comparative and evolutionary perspectives, emphasizing field studies of natural populations. Prerequisite: junior or senior status; nine advanced hours in ZOO; for others, permission of instructor. Cross-listed with ATH 497/597.
MPC 498/598 Evolution of Human Behavior (3)
Ethology and ecology of Homo sapiens, from comparative and evolutionary perspectives, drawing on primatology, paleoanthropology, and sociocultural studies of traditional societies. Prerequisite: junior or senior status; nine advanced hours of ZOO; permission of instructor. Cross-listed with ATH 498/598.
601 Seminar for Zoology Graduate Students (1) (Credit/no-credit only.)
Introduction to methods of searching literature, preparation of audiovisual materials, preparation of grant applications and manuscripts, good teaching practices, and other aspects of the profession. Seminar for beginning graduate students in zoology.
605 Advanced Molecular Biology (3)
In-depth study of genome organization, rearrangement, replication, and expression in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and their viruses, with an emphasis on regulatory mechanisms. Prerequisite: graduate status, a course in molecular genetics, biochemistry, or cell biology, and permission of instructor.
606 Advanced Cell Biology (3)
Advanced level study of molecular basis of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure/function relationships. Prerequisite: graduate status, course in molecular genetics, cell biology, or biochemistry, and permission of instructor.
620 Graduate Research (1-12; maximum 14)
Research or special problems in zoology.
621 Problems in Zoology II (1-12)
Continuation of research or special problems for graduate students during summer sessions.
630B Alpine Biology for Teachers (3)
This course follows GLG 699, Field Geology for Teachers. Plant and animal communities in northwestern Wyoming studied by lectures, field trips and lab study in an intensive two-week program at Timberline Ranch near Dubois, Wyoming. Prerequisite: GLG 699. Offered infrequently; summer only.
630C Field Entomology for Teachers (3)
Introduction to the biology and diversity of insects and related arthropods. Emphasis on methods of field study and the use of insects for teaching biological concepts. Prerequisite: teaching licensure or permission of instructor. Summer only.
630D ?Vertebrate Zoology for Teachers (4)
Identification, taxonomy, and life histories of vertebrate animals with emphasis on local fauna. Summer only.
630E Invertebrate Zoology for Teachers (4)
Identification, taxonomy, and life histories of invertebrate animals with emphasis on local fauna.
630G Evolution for Biology Teachers (3)
Emphasis is on Darwin and the origin of the species, evidence for evolution, creationist arguments, biology of speciation and related social issues. Prerequisites: Teaching certification or permission of instructor.
640 Mechanisms in Neurobiology (3)
Studies of the molecular mechanisms of action in the nervous system with a strong emphasis on current methodologies employed in the field. Prerequisite: Undergraduate degree in the biological sciences or psychology with physiology background ( ZOO 305 or equivalent) or permission of instructor. Cross-listed with PSY 640.
649 Zoological Analytical Techniques (4)
Fundamental principles and techniques in the experimentation with and analysis of biologically important compounds. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Offered infrequently. 1 Lec. 3 Lab.
650 Seminar in Molecular Biology (1)
Discussion of current literature in molecular biology. Cross-listed with BOT, CHM, and MBI 650. Prerequisite: graduate standing.
671 Population and Community Ecology (4)
Principles and applications of population and community ecology: population dynamics, direct and indirect species interactions, food webs, and species diversity. Prerequisites: At least one course in general ecology. A course in calculus is recommended. Cross-listed with BOT/ MBI 671.
672 Ecosystem and Global Ecology (4)
Structure, dynamics and management of ecosystems and the biosphere, including food web interactions, nutrient cycling, ecosystem functioning, and biogeochemical cycles at local, regional and global scales. Prerequisites: At least one course in general ecology and general chemistry.
689 Pedagogy in Zoology for Graduate Students (1) (Credit/no-credit only.)
Introduction to teaching zoology for new graduate students. Role of the graduate teaching assistant, teaching methodology and good teaching practices are covered. Prerequisite: acceptance into the department graduate program. Summer only.
698H Using Animals in the Classroom (2)
Provides instruction on how to maintain and use animals to illustrate diverse physiological, behavioral, and ecological principles in the classroom. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
700 Research for Master’s Thesis (1-12; maximum 12)
Research in zoology for those who successfully defend their master’s thesis proposal. Prerequisite: Undergraduate biological science major and related scientific subjects.
710 Advanced Seminar (1; maximum 4)
Discussion of current problems and literature.
720 Doctoral Research (1-12; maximum 14)
Research performed by doctoral student prior to successful completion of doctoral comprehensive examination.
721 Graduate Research II (1-12)
Continuation of research or special problems requiring expertise equivalent to thesis research during summer sessions.
Note: The following courses accommodate professional growth of advanced graduate students. The primary function is to keep students updated within their areas of research specialization. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
730 Current Topics in Ecology and Systematics (1-3; maximum 18)
850 Research for Doctoral Dissertation (1-16; minimum 16, maximum 60 depending on departmental requirements)
Research performed by doctoral student after successful completion of doctoral comprehensive examination.
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