Master of Science (M.S.) Major in Population and Conservation Biology

BIO 5100. Professional Development.

This course develops professional skills relevant to Biology graduate training and scientific careers. Students examine career pathways, professional communication practices, and competencies required for academic and non-academic contexts. Instruction is delivered through structured modules, discussions, and applied assignments that analyze professional scenarios and workforce expectations, including evaluation of professional documents, communication strategies, ethical considerations, and data presentation conventions across diverse scientific and organizational settings. Students analyze their qualifications, evaluate career options, and construct a professional development plan based on disciplinary standards, regulatory frameworks, and employment requirements.

BIO 5110. Seminar in Biology.

This course offers a seminar-style examination of timely issues and problems within selected biology disciplines. Students engage with current scholarly literature relevant to their areas of study and practice systematic methods of critical reading, analysis, and discussion. Emphasis is placed on evaluating research questions, methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and interpretations presented in contemporary publications. Through guided discussion and independent inquiry, students develop skills in scholarly critique and disciplinary communication. Course topics may vary by offering. This course is repeatable for credit.

BIO 5114. Collaborative Research.

This course provides master’s‑level graduate students with structured opportunities to engage in biological research in collaboration with graduate faculty in the Department of Biology. Students participate in research activities that may be distinct from and supplemental to thesis research conducted under BIO 5399A or BIO 5399B. Emphasis is placed on the collaborative processes of scientific investigation, including project development, data collection, analysis, and interpretation within a faculty‑guided research environment. The course supports disciplinary research skill development and professional scholarly engagement. Topics, research focus, and methods may vary by faculty mentor and semester. See also BIO 5214 and BIO 5314.

BIO 5166. Medical Microbiology Laboratory.

This course provides hands-on training in medical microbiology, focusing on the isolation, identification, and characterization of microorganisms associated with human disease. Students investigate topics such as disease transmission, antimicrobial activity, normal human microflora, and molecular diagnostic techniques through structured laboratory experiments and case-based activities. Students participate in laboratory sessions emphasizing aseptic techniques, data collection, analysis, and scientific communication. By the end of the course, students will be able to interpret experimental results, apply microbiological methods, and evaluate microbial roles in health and disease in real-world contexts. Corequisite: BIO 5366 with a grade of "C" or better.

BIO 5176. Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory.

This course provides a laboratory experience in microbial biotechnology, focusing on experimental approaches used to analyze and manipulate microbial systems. It examines techniques including PCR amplification, recombinant DNA methods, cloning, bacterial transformation, protein expression, and purification using electrophoresis and chromatography. Instruction emphasizes hands-on experimentation, data collection, and documentation through laboratory notebooks and collaborative case studies. Students perform molecular and microbiological techniques, interpret experimental results, and evaluate methodological approaches used to investigate microbial systems. Corequisite: BIO 5376 with a grade of "C" or better.

BIO 5199B. Thesis B.

This course represents a student’s continuing enrollment in a master’s‑level thesis while completing supervised research. Students may remain enrolled in this course each semester until the thesis is completed and submitted for binding. Enrollment is permitted only after approval of a formal thesis proposal. The course supports sustained faculty supervision, access to laboratory or research facilities, and ongoing scholarly activity related to thesis development, analysis, and writing. Students pursuing the M.S. degree with a thesis enroll in this course during any semester in which faculty guidance is provided or institutional research resources are utilized.

BIO 5214. Collaborative Research.

This course provides master’s‑level graduate students with structured opportunities to engage in biological research in collaboration with graduate faculty in the Department of Biology. Students participate in research activities that may be distinct from and supplemental to thesis research conducted under BIO 5399A or BIO 5399B. Emphasis is placed on the collaborative processes of scientific investigation, including project development, data collection, analysis, and interpretation within a faculty‑guided research environment. The course supports disciplinary research skill development and professional scholarly engagement. Topics, research focus, and methods may vary by faculty mentor and semester. See also BIO 5114 and BIO 5314.

BIO 5295. Fundamentals of Research.

This course introduces beginning graduate students to the materials, methods, and foundational practices of research in the biological sciences. Students examine approaches to locating, evaluating, and interpreting scientific literature, as well as common experimental, observational, and analytical techniques used across biological disciplines. Emphasis is placed on understanding research design, data management, and scholarly communication within professional scientific standards. The course supports the development of research skills necessary for graduate‑level study and independent inquiry. It is recommended that students enroll in this course during their first semester in residence to establish a foundation for subsequent coursework and research activities.

BIO 5299B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing enrollment in a master’s‑level thesis while completing supervised research. Students may remain enrolled in this course each semester until the thesis is completed and submitted for binding. Enrollment is permitted only after approval of a formal thesis proposal. The course supports sustained faculty supervision, access to laboratory or research facilities, and ongoing scholarly activity related to thesis development, analysis, and writing. Students pursuing the M.S. degree with a thesis enroll in this course during any semester in which faculty guidance is provided or institutional research resources are utilized.

BIO 5300. Neurobiology.

This course gives students an overview of neurobiology, spanning from the cell and molecular to the system levels. Students will learn the principles underlying the function of neurons and will apply that knowledge throughout the course as they study sensory systems, motor systems and how the nervous system develops. Lectures emphasize the experimental advancements that led to the current understanding of neurobiology as well as the gaps that remain with the goal of promoting inquisitiveness and critical thinking.

BIO 5301. Evolution.

This course introduces the foundational principles of biological evolution, encompassing the history of evolutionary thought, population biology, mechanisms of evolution, micro- and macroevolution, speciation, and the history of life on Earth. Topics span from molecular-level processes to broad patterns across geological time, providing a comprehensive view of biodiversity and change. The history of evolutionary thought, population-level processes, and the mechanisms driving speciation are examined through primary literature, case studies, and data analysis. Students gain an integrated understanding of how micro- and macroevolutionary processes have shaped the history of life on Earth.

BIO 5304. Wildlife and Recreation: Impact, Policy, and Management.

This course examines the ecological, social, and policy dimensions of wildlife recreation, including the impacts of tourism and outdoor activities on wildlife populations and habitats. Emphasis is placed on regulatory frameworks, stakeholder interests, and adaptive management strategies across diverse recreation contexts. Students critically evaluate empirical research and management case studies to assess trade-offs between conservation objectives and recreational use. Through applied analysis and research-based problem solving, students develop evidence-based management recommendations addressing complex wildlife-recreation interactions.

BIO 5307. Ecology of Rarity.

This course examines ecological and evolutionary explanations for species rarity, emphasizing patterns, processes, and definitions used in contemporary biology. Topics include the species concept, speciation, extinction dynamics, biodiversity measurement, and ecological correlates of rarity across spatial and temporal scales. Students analyze empirical literature on rare taxa, including threatened, endemic, and rediscovered species, and evaluate how rarity influences conservation assessment and management. Integrating scientific, philosophical, and policy perspectives, this course explores how rarity is defined, measured, and interpreted in ecological research. Students will be able to engage in critical analysis of primary literature, synthesis of biological data, and clear scientific communication.

BIO 5311. Cancer Biology.

This course provides a foundation for understanding the complex molecular, biochemical, and cellular processes associated with cancer development. Topics include the role of tumor suppressor genes, oncogenes, DNA repair, apoptosis, extracellular matrix, cell-cycle control, cell signaling pathways, immune function and cancer-causing viruses. Emerging diagnostics and/or therapeutics will also be discussed. After completion students should be able to describe the pathological basis for cancer development and provide a rationale for current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches used to treat cancer patients.

BIO 5314. Collaborative Research.

This course provides master’s‑level graduate students with structured opportunities to engage in biological research in collaboration with graduate faculty in the Department of Biology. Students participate in research activities that may be distinct from and supplemental to thesis research conducted under BIO 5399A or BIO 5399B. Emphasis is placed on the collaborative processes of scientific investigation, including project development, data collection, analysis, and interpretation within a faculty‑guided research environment. The course supports disciplinary research skill development and professional scholarly engagement. Topics, research focus, and methods may vary by faculty mentor and semester. See also BIO 5114 and BIO 5214.

BIO 5316. Genomics.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and applications of modern genomics. Core topics include genome structure and function, the human genome, comparative genomics, high-throughput sequencing technologies, and genomic evolution. Further examining the role of genomics in health and disease, with emphasis on cancer genomics and pharmacogenomics, as well as transcriptomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics. Ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) associated with genomic research and its emerging applications and innovation in medicine and science are also critically explored.

BIO 5317. Interpretive Biology Programming and Design.

This course will explore the principles and methods of interpretation and science communication used by the National Association for Interpretation, National Park Service, science museums, environmental centers, and state park systems to spark public interest and engagement in learning about science environments and biology. This course will provide opportunities to practice biology communication skills in both personal and non-personal contexts by creating and leading science outreach programs, reading interpretive literature, and evaluating other interpretive media. Service-learning is an integral and mandatory part of this course.

BIO 5324. Natural History and Conservation of Large Mammals.

This course will introduce students to advanced details of natural history, research, and conservation of large mammals. Topics considered will include natural history, range and population status (historic and current), importance to and interaction with humans, research design and analysis, and the development of conservation and management plans.

BIO 5327. Issues in Irish Biodiversity and Conservation.

This course focuses on exploring issues related to Irish flora and fauna, ecosystems, conservation strategies in areas of high ecological concern, and public involvement in conservation. Emphasis is placed on working through case studies and interacting with practical examples of conservation projects as shared by local experts. The course will integrate historical events related to invasive species introductions, resource harvesting, and natural biological disasters as we discuss strategies for conserving and restoring biodiversity. It also draws comparisons to relevant practices in Texas. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

BIO 5328. Field Biology of Ireland.

This course focuses on building field biology research skills by using common field biology tools (e.g., quadrats, measuring tapes, field guides, binoculars, topography maps, and digital meters) and practicing multiple field techniques (e.g., transects, sweep nets, kick sampling, and camera trapping) to carry out ecological field surveys documenting local biodiversity in Ireland. Students apply advanced field research skills during on-site ecological surveys conducted with area experts to generate authentic biodiversity data for Irish community partners. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

BIO 5329. Raptor Ecology.

This course provides advanced study of the ecology, evolution, and conservation of diurnal birds of prey. Students critically examine raptor morphology, physiology, taxonomy, community ecology, and global diversity through analysis of primary scientific literature. Emphasis is placed on synthesis of ecological theory, evaluation of conservation frameworks, and independent research development. Graduate students complete an in depth species analysis and prepare a competitive research grant proposal addressing unresolved questions in raptor biology or ecology, developing professional skills relevant to research and conservation careers.

BIO 5331. Human Dimensions of Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation.

This course examines the human dimensions of wildlife and fisheries conservation, emphasizing social, political, economic, and cultural influences on management outcomes across regional and global contexts. Students critically evaluate theoretical frameworks and interdisciplinary research that shape conservation policy and stakeholder engagement, with attention to applications in North America and Texas. Through advanced analysis of empirical studies and applied research design, students assess methodological approaches and develop evidence-based strategies addressing complex human–wildlife management challenges.

BIO 5332. Biology in Film and Television: An Analysis of the Biology in Fiction and Non-Fiction Film and TV.

This course explores how biology is portrayed in popular motion pictures, with an emphasis on analyzing biological accuracy, misconceptions perpetuated or depicted, and investigating the rationale behind directors' and writers' decisions about how biological content is presented in the final product. Students will watch a curated list of fiction films, non-fiction documentaries, fiction television episodes, and/or non-fiction docu-series with topics ranging from terrestrial ecology to public health. Students will gain the skills to review and analyze film and television media for scientific accuracy and inaccuracy.

BIO 5333. International Studies of Plant Ecology and Conservation.

This course provides a first-hand understanding of the natural history, biodiversity, ecology, conservation, and culture of African bushveld ecosystems with a focus on plants. It is an immersive and intensive study abroad experience combining traditional lecture and field-based instruction in the African bushveld. Instruction uses traditional lectures, guided ecological field work, and written assignments to emphasize plant identification, ecosystem processes, and conservation practices. Students analyze ecological observations, evaluate conservation challenges, and interpret ecological patterns in southern Africa. Corequisite: BIO 5334 with a grade of "C" or better.

BIO 5334. International Studies of Wildlife Ecology and Natural History.

This course provides a first-hand understanding of the natural history, biodiversity, ecology, behavior, conservation, and culture of African bushveld ecosystems with a focus on wildlife. It is an immersive and intensive study abroad course combining traditional lecture and field-based instruction in the African bushveld. It uses traditional lectures, guided ecological field work, and written assignments to emphasize wildlife identification, ecosystem processes, and conservation practices. Students also develop skills in ecological observation, scientific communication, and global environmental awareness while gaining firsthand experience with conservation challenges and opportunities in southern Africa. Corequisite: BIO 5333 with a grade of "C" or better.

BIO 5339. Environmental Physiology of Animals.

This course addresses animals’ physiological responses to challenges in the environment, including changes in temperature, moisture, salinity, partial pressure of gases, food availability, and toxins. Through lectures, case studies, and comparative analyses, students examine homeostatic regulation and stress responses across diverse animal taxa and ecosystems and evolutionary adaptations to the same. Students will use evidence-based approaches to explain the physiological principles underlying potential animal responses to environmental change.

BIO 5346. Comparative Immunology.

This course will consist of a taxonomic survey of metazoan immune systems, focusing on the ecological and evolutionary causes and consequences of variation in immune systems across animals. While most textbooks present the immune system of animals as a single, universal system, in fact, there is immense variability in animal immune systems. Surveying the animal tree of life as a guide, we will explore both foundational concepts in immunology and the evolution of diversity in immune systems across animals.

BIO 5350J. Environmental Physiology of Animals.

This course is a study of how animals respond physiologically to changes in environmental temperature, moisture, salinity, partial pressure of gases, and toxins. Prerequisites: Instructor approval.

BIO 5350M. Wildlife Policy and Law in North America.

This course provides the student with a historical and cultural context within which wildlife policy and law (federal treaties, statutes, case law, and regulations) have developed in North America, particularly in the United States. Graduate students will research the development of Wildlife law in representative states as well.

BIO 5350O. Tropical Ecology and Conservation.

Students will obtain a first-hand knowledge of the ecology, biodiversity, conservation, and culture of tropical ecosystems. It is an immersive and intensive study abroad course combining traditional lecture and field-based laboratory instruction in tropical ecosystems.

BIO 5350Z. Diversity and Cultural Dimensions of Geoparks.

This course explores differences in ecological diversity in city and state parks, national parks, and geoparks globally. Students explore the impact of the parks on the local community and on national policy by focusing on differences in science communication strategies and community engagement practices at the parks. Students analyze the science content depicted and implementation of communication strategies in static and dynamic messaging within the parks to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between science content, science communication, and community engagement on global conservation science. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

BIO 5356. Plant Physiology.

This course focuses on in-depth examination of the physiological processes that govern plant life, from molecular, cellular, to whole-organism levels. The relationship between structure and function is emphasized as well as molecular mechanisms of biochemical pathways that control development. Core topics include regulation of growth and development, photosynthesis and respiration, nutrient assimilation, and vascular transport of water and solutes. Through lectures and recently published papers related, students explore the physiological and biochemical mechanisms that control growth and development, while fostering scientific inquiry, data interpretation, and the critical thinking skills essential for advanced studies in plant sciences and career readiness.

BIO 5363. History of Medicine.

This course examines significant concepts, developments, individuals, and events in the history of medicine from antiquity to modern era. Topics include how disease has shaped medical practice, the rise of hospitals as centers for care and the ways medical science is influenced by cultural and political contexts. Historical analysis explores the development of modern medical ethics and the evolving doctor–patient relationship. Students engage with primary sources and case studies to understand how past medical practices shape contemporary healthcare.

BIO 5366. Medical Microbiology.

This course provides an overview of medically important microorganisms, focusing on pathogenic bacteria, fungi, and parasites and their roles in human disease. It examines mechanisms of pathogenicity, host–microbe interactions, epidemiology, and antimicrobial resistance, along with approaches used to identify and study infectious agents. Instruction combines interactive lectures, case-based discussions, and real-time assessments to connect concepts with disease scenarios. Students analyze infectious diseases, interpret microbiological data, and evaluate factors influencing disease transmission and control.

BIO 5374. Principles of Zoo Management.

This course examines advanced principles of captive animal management within conservation- and education-based institutions such as zoological facilities. It explores the scientific, ethical, and regulatory frameworks that shape contemporary zoo operations, with an emphasis on population sustainability, animal welfare science, population management, and institutional decision-making. Course instruction incorporates lectures, critical evaluation of primary literature, and applied interactive assignments that address real-world management challenges. The course emphasizes evaluation of captive management strategies, synthesis of scientific and regulatory information, and development of evidence-based approaches to conservation-oriented animal care programs.

BIO 5376. Microbial Biotechnology.

This course provides an overview of how microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and yeast, are engineered to address real-world challenges through biotechnology. It examines applied microbiology topics such as microbial genetics, metabolic engineering, industrial fermentation, and microbial applications in medicine, agriculture, environmental remediation, and bio-based product development. Instruction combines lectures, case studies, and analysis of contemporary research to connect theory with application. Students analyze and evaluate microbial biotechnological strategies used to address practical problems in industrial, environmental, and medical contexts.

BIO 5390. Problems in the Biological Sciences.

This course provides graduate students with an opportunity to pursue a semester-long, independent research project under the supervision of a member of the graduate faculty in Biology. Based on research across the expanse of investigations carried out in Biology, the experience at its heart entails discovery and documentation, employing techniques appropriate to the research question and bringing greater relevance to coursework undertaken across disciplines in the pursuit of a master's degree. Students typically find themselves in a research group and learn scientific communication in addition to research design and execution.

BIO 5399A. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s initial enrollment in a master’s‑level thesis while beginning supervised research activities. It provides formal enrollment status for students developing their thesis project under faculty guidance, including preliminary research, data collection, and project planning. Thesis credit is awarded once the thesis is completed in BIO 5399B. Students pursuing the M.S. degree with a thesis are expected to enroll in thesis coursework during each semester in which faculty supervision is provided or laboratory or research facilities are utilized. This course supports the early stages of sustained scholarly inquiry required for thesis completion.

BIO 5399B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing enrollment in a master’s‑level thesis while completing supervised research. Students remain enrolled in this course each semester until the thesis is completed and submitted for binding. Enrollment is permitted only after approval of a formal thesis proposal. The course supports sustained faculty supervision, access to laboratory or research facilities, and ongoing scholarly activity related to thesis development, analysis, and writing. Students pursuing the M.S. degree with a thesis are expected to enroll in this course during any long semester in which faculty guidance is provided or institutional research resources are utilized.

BIO 5400. Plants Important for Wildlife.

This course provides field-based experience in the identification and taxonomy of plants and plant parts using accurate botanical terminology. It examines the co-evolution of plant defense mechanisms and the adaptive strategies plants have developed in response to herbivory and environmental pressures. The course also investigates the economic and ecological impacts of plant use by wildlife, emphasizing the interdependent relationships between plant communities and the animal species that rely on them for food, shelter, and survival.

BIO 5402. Earth Science I.

A study of astronomy and meteorology through observation, description, and interpretation of earth phenomena. Includes field observations, methods of measurement and interpretation of data related to the physical environment and space technology. Requires independent scientific and science education research and presentation of findings in a professional context.

BIO 5403. Earth Science II.

The description and interpretation of earth phenomena considered from the standpoint of geology and oceanography. Includes field observations, methods of sampling and interpretation of data related to the physical environment. Requires independent scientific and science education research and presentation of findings in a professional context.

BIO 5408. Science Processes and Research.

Students will analyze scientific research design, design research, interpret data, and communicate results. Stress will be placed on broad-field structure and integration of major science concepts and research-based science pedagogy. This course must be taken the semester prior to student teaching and is required for those seeking 7-12 Life Science or Science teacher certification. This course may not count as one of the four upper-level Biology courses required of general Biology majors, or one of the three upper-level Biology courses required of Biology minors.

BIO 5410. Field Biology of Plants.

This course provides an introduction to the major natural regions of the State of Texas, the principal plant communities that characterize each of these regions, and the factors that combine to influence and determine the distribution of plant communities across the landscape. Laboratories are primarily field trips to various natural regions throughout the central Texas region that emphasize the recognition of plant community characteristics and provide students with the tools and techniques important for field identification.

BIO 5411. Morphology of the Vascular Plants.

This course focuses on the structure, function, and evolution of living and fossil vascular plants, including the ferns, gymnosperms, and flowering plants. In both lecture and lab, students will be introduced to the basic structure and functioning of plant organs and reproductive structures through a comparative approach that will enable them to understand plant diversity, adaptation, and evolutionary history. Specialized topics, such as the origin of land plants, evolution of the ovule, angiospermy, and the evolution of the flower are emphasized.

BIO 5412. Plant Anatomy.

This course introduces students to the basic structure of vascular plants at varying levels. In both lecture and lab, students will be introduced to the cell and tissue types that form the major organs of the plant body (stems, roots, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds). Students analyze how plant structure is correlated with physiological functioning and environmental adaptation. Emphasis is placed on characteristics that are of importance in understanding phylogenetic relationships among the extant groups of vascular plants.

BIO 5415. Ichthyology.

This course surveys the lineages of organisms generally known as fish with an emphasis on diversity, evolutionary relationships, functional adaptations, and environmental interactions. Content includes fish form and function, classification, phylogeny, natural history, biogeography, and major taxonomic groups presented in phylogenetic sequence. Students examine comparative anatomical and ecological data through lectures and laboratory investigations. Upon completion, students will be able to analyze evolutionary patterns, compare structural and functional traits among fishes, and evaluate relationships between animal adaptations and environmental conditions.

BIO 5418. Field Ornithology.

This course introduces students to avian species with an emphasis on Texas birds and provides advanced knowledge of the application of various field and laboratory techniques and statistical methods used to study them. Topics include survey methodology, sampling design, marking/banding, measurement/sample extraction, and aging/sexing avian species. A strong emphasis is placed on using results from field and laboratory methods to make inferences about the habitat and ecosystem within which the data were collected. Students will practice identifying birds using diagnostic characteristics, including visual and auditory identification, and collecting data on avian species.

BIO 5420. Natural History of the Vertebrates.

This course critically examines the evolutionary history, comparative biology, and ecological diversification of vertebrate taxa, emphasizing the mechanisms that generate morphological, physiological, and behavioral variation across lineages. Topics include vertebrate origins, speciation, functional morphology, sensory systems, locomotion, life-history strategies, and macroevolutionary patterns. Instruction integrates lectures with guided discussions and laboratory investigation focused on taxonomic identification and comparative functional trait morphology. By the end of the course, students will be able to synthesize evolutionary and ecological theory to evaluate vertebrate diversity and construct evidence-based interpretations of form-function relationships across major vertebrate clades.

BIO 5421. Ornithology.

This course introduces students to the evolutionary origins and biodiversity of birds, their anatomy and physiology, behavioral ecology, and conservation, with an emphasis on Texas birds. Strong emphasis is placed on using content to make larger observations and inferences about the environment. The laboratory emphasizes bird identification, habitat requirements, and conservation. Students will practice identifying birds using diagnostic characteristics, including visual and auditory identification. Students are introduced to the field of ornithology and to basic techniques for studying birds.

BIO 5422. Mammalogy.

This course provides an advanced study of mammals, including taxonomy, distribution, ecology, behavior, and evolutionary relationships, with emphasis on sylvan species native to the southwestern United States. Content examines mammalian ecology and human-driven factors influencing management and conservation of wild mammal populations. Instruction is delivered through lectures, critical analysis of scientific literature, and systematic specimen examination, with laboratory activities emphasizing anatomical study, identification, specimen preparation, and field-based population analysis methods. Students evaluate mammalian diversity, analyze ecological relationships, and apply research-based approaches to classification and population assessment in scientific and management contexts.

BIO 5423. Wildlife Management.

This course provides a comprehensive survey of ecological principles, habitat manipulation, and population dynamics used to manage wildlife species and their habitats. Content addresses the application of ecological and natural history principles in habitat management and population control. Instruction includes lectures and analysis of ecological data and scientific literature. Laboratory activities focus on demonstrations, field-based population monitoring, habitat analysis, and development of wildlife management plans. The course emphasizes evaluation of management strategies and methods for measuring, mapping, and monitoring species within conservation contexts.

BIO 5424D. Vertebrate Endocrinology.

This course teaches function and organization of the endocrine system. It describes the major endocrine glands, the synthesis and release of their hormone products, and the interaction with target tissues. Endocrine control of digestion, growth, reproduction, and homeostasis will be compared between mammals and other vertebrate groups.

BIO 5432. Microbial Genomics.

This course provides students with the computational knowledge and skills to investigate the function, ecology, and evolution of microorganisms. Topics span current sequencing technologies, genomics and transcriptomics approaches, and command-line and R programming tools used to analyze real microbial genomic data. By the end of the course, students analyze microbial genomics data using modern computational methods and conceptual frameworks to investigate microbial diversity and function, developing essential skills required for data-driven discovery in the microbial sciences.

BIO 5435. Techniques in Wildlife Management.

This course examines methods of practical wildlife management and research, including techniques for monitoring wildlife populations, collecting ecological data, and assessing habitat and population dynamics. Topics include wildlife capture, handling, tagging, and data management in applied field settings. Instruction is delivered through lectures and field-based methods, including structured field exercises, data collection, and analytical activities. Students evaluate wildlife management techniques, analyze population and habitat data, and apply field and research methods to investigate wildlife populations and ecological conditions.

BIO 5441. Cellular Physiology.

This course provides an advanced examination of the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular function, with rigorous emphasis on thermodynamic principles and energy metabolism. Students critically evaluate the regulation of the cell cycle and the complex modulation of gene expression within eukaryotic systems through systematic analysis of peer-reviewed research. The integrated laboratory component employs a singular, cohesive experimental model to investigate cellular operations and foster independent scientific reasoning. Students culminate their work with a formal research presentation, demonstrating the capacity to communicate advanced biological findings to a scholarly audience. Participants emerge with the analytical and communicative proficiency required to contribute meaningfully to graduate-level research and the ongoing advancement of modern cell theory.

BIO 5443. Fish Physiology.

This course examines primary physiological functions in fish, including sensory systems, metabolism, respiration, digestion, excretion, reproduction, and water balance across diverse aquatic environments. Through lectures, laboratory activities, and analysis of current literature, students investigate how organ systems interact to support homeostasis and survival under changing environmental conditions. Students evaluate physiological adaptations in fish, explain functional responses to environmental challenges, and analyze how different species persist across freshwater and marine ecosystems.

BIO 5448. Bacterial Genetics.

This course provides an overview of bacterial genetics, focusing on molecular mechanisms that govern DNA replication, gene expression, mutation, recombination, and gene regulation in prokaryotes. It examines topics including plasmids, horizontal gene transfer, operon systems, and CRISPR-Cas technologies used to study and manipulate bacterial genomes. Instruction integrates lectures, active learning activities, primary literature analysis, and laboratory experiences to connect concepts with experimental approaches. Students analyze genetic processes in bacteria, interpret experimental data and evaluate genetic tools used in microbiological research.

BIO 5454. Plant Ecology.

This course examines plant ecology across levels of biological organization, from cellular processes and individual plants to populations, communities, ecosystems, and global patterns. Emphasis is placed on understanding how processes at one scale constrain, propagate, or emerge at other scales, with sustained attention to conceptual integration across levels of organization. The lecture component develops unifying ecological concepts and theoretical frameworks, while the laboratory applies these ideas through greenhouse and field experiments, vegetation sampling, quantitative observation and analysis. Students will develop analytical skills in experimental design, data interpretation, and scale-aware ecological reasoning, enabling them to critically evaluate plant–environment interactions across scales.

BIO 5465. General Entomology.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the diversity, biology, and evolutionary relationships of insects and related arthropods. Topics include morphology, physiology, systematics, ecology, population biology, medical and veterinary entomology, and pest management. Students examine arthropod classification and ecological roles through lectures and laboratory-based identification and comparative analysis. Using taxonomic keys, specimen analysis, and evaluation of ecological data, students analyze insect diversity and interactions within natural and applied systems to interpret their biological and environmental significance.

BIO 5470. Limnology: The study of inland aquatic ecosystems.

This course explores physical, chemical, and biological processes in lakes, ponds, and streams. Key concepts and their application will be covered in the lecture and limnological field sampling methods and analysis of chemical and biological samples are included in the laboratory. At the end of this course students should understand the theoretical and practical aspects of limnology, be able to apply these concepts to societal water issues, be familiar with limnological laboratory and field methods, and have the ability to evaluate the primary literature.

BIO 5472. Animal Behavior.

This course examines advanced theoretical and empirical approaches to the evolution and fitness consequences of animal behavior. Emphasis is placed on Tinbergen’s four explanatory frameworks and their application to behavioral ecology, social systems, communication, cognition, and life-history strategies. Students engage in critical evaluation of primary research, quantitative data interpretation, and theoretical model assessment to investigate adaptive significance across taxa. Students synthesize competing hypotheses, formulate research questions, and construct evidence-based arguments grounded in contemporary behavioral theory.

BIO 5480. Cytology and Microtechnique.

This course explores the structure and function of diverse cell types through the principles of light, electron, and laser scanning confocal microscopy, as well as emerging digital imaging technologies. An integrative course, it combines the theoretical foundations of cell biology with hands-on training in microscopic techniques. In the laboratory, students develop practical skills in standard and advanced microscopy methods, gaining experience in the accurate execution, imaging, and interpretation of cell biology experiments. Students document their work by capturing and submitting microscopic images as assignments, reinforcing both technical proficiency and scientific communication. Current developments in the field are examined throughout the course, preparing students to critically engage with modern cytological research.

BIO 5481. Internship in Biological Laboratory Technologies.

This course provides on-the-job training in a public or private-sector agency related to the biological sciences. Students engage in supervised professional activities that apply biological knowledge, skills, and methods in organizational settings. Experiences may involve laboratory or field work, planning processes, data management, or community engagement, depending on the placement. Students integrate practical experience with biological concepts to support professional development and understanding of workplace practices within biology-related fields. Students must apply to the department internship director prior to registering for the internship course. Prerequisite: Instructor Approval.

BIO 5490. Principles of Developmental Biology.

This course explores the basic principles and molecular mechanisms that govern the development of multicellular organisms. Using both animal and plant models, it examines how a single cell develops into complex tissues, organs, and body plans through tightly regulated genetic and cellular processes. Topics covered include gametogenesis, fertilization, cleavage, gastrulation, pattern formation, organogenesis, morphogen gradients, and gene regulatory networks. Students will explore developmental processes using Drosophila and Arabidopsis through lectures and labs, fostering analytical skills and scientific inquiry vital for advanced studies and careers in biology.

BIO 5599B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing enrollment in a master’s‑level thesis following approval of a thesis proposal. Students remain enrolled in this course each semester until the thesis is completed and submitted for binding. Enrollment provides formal recognition of ongoing faculty supervision, access to laboratory or research facilities, and continued engagement in thesis‑related research, analysis, and writing. Students pursuing the M.S. degree with a thesis enroll in this course during any semester in which faculty guidance is provided or institutional research resources are utilized. This course supports sustained scholarly inquiry required for thesis completion.

BIO 5999B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing enrollment in a master’s‑level thesis following approval of a thesis proposal. Students remain enrolled in this course each semester until the thesis is completed and submitted for binding. Enrollment provides formal recognition of ongoing faculty supervision, access to laboratory or research facilities, and continued engagement in thesis‑related research, analysis, and writing. Students pursuing the M.S. degree with a thesis enroll in this course during any semester in which faculty guidance is provided or institutional research resources are utilized. This course supports sustained scholarly inquiry required for thesis completion.