BIO 083
3 credits
Pre-College Biology I
Prerequisite(s): None. English 10 recommended
This is a pre-college level course designed for students who intend to enter university studies, health sciences, or technology courses. Topics include ecology as it relates to current environmental problems; cell structure, function, and reproduction; and overview of simple organisms, such as algae, and their relationship to advanced life forms of plants and animals. An important component of the course is a series of laboratory sessions which reinforces classroom topics.
BIO 093
4 credits
Pre-College Biology II
Prerequisite(s): Biology 12 with a C- or better; or BIO 083 or BIO 11 with a C+ or better. Chemistry 11 or CHEM 083, and/or Principles of Math 11, Applications of Math 11, Foundations of Mathematics 11, Pre-calculus 11, or MATH 085 are highly recommended.
Mammalian organ systems will be studied in detail. Organic molecules and basic chemical processes will be used as a basis of study for the organ systems investigated as well as cell structure, cell membrane structure, and energy transformations in cells. Enzyme function, DNA structure, and protein synthesis are introduced. Mitosis, meiosis, and genetics will be used to introduce genetic diseases and cancer. Laboratory skills are developed in a series of laboratory sessions designed to enhance the learning outcomes associated with the lecture material.
BIO 105
4 credits
Human Biology
Prerequisite(s): None
This course is designed for non-science students with an interest in biology. Cell and organismal physiology, nutrition, reproduction, genetics, evolution, and basic ecology are studied in lectures and laboratory using the human organism as a focus. BIO 105 cannot be used to meet the requirements for a Biology major, extended minor, or minor programs. Bachelor of Science students with credit for any Biology course numbered above 110 are not allowed to take BIO 105 for further credit.
BIO 106
4 credits
Ecology from an Urban Perspective
Prerequisite(s): None
This course is designed for non-science students with an interest in ecology and their own environment. The course will present concepts of basic biology and ecology in lectures and laboratory in order to help students understand the natural environment and human influence on it. Topics will include the scientific method, evolution, biological adaptations, classification, nutrient cycling, and features of populations and communities using examples from organisms found in local urban and rural ecosystems. A weekend Streamkeepers course and a field project may be required. BIO 106 cannot be used to meet the requirements for major, extended minor, or minor programs in biology.
Note: Students with credit for any Biology course numbered above 110 may not take BIO 106 for further credit.
BIO 111
5 credits
Introductory Biology I
Prerequisite(s): One of Biology 11 or BIO 083 with a C+ or better and one of Chemistry 12, CHEM 093, or CHEM 110 with a C or better; or one of Biology 12 or BIO 093 with a C+ or better and one of Chemistry 11, Chemistry 12, CHEM 083, CHEM 093, or CHEM 110 with a C or better.
This course is for majors in biology and for career programs, such as dentistry, education, forestry, medicine, agriculture, etc., that require a rigorous treatment of current concepts in biology. The course will emphasize the molecular and cellular basis of life, biochemical processes, cellular structure and function, and genetics.
BIO 112
5 credits
Introductory Biology II
Prerequisite(s): BIO 111
This course continues the study begun in BIO 111 of the principles of biology. This course includes a study of the interaction of organisms with one another and their physical environment as they relate to the anatomy and physiology of plant and animal systems, the diversity of life on the planet and evolution.
BIO 201
4 credits
Cellular Biochemistry and Metabolism
Prerequisite(s): (BIO 111, BIO 112, and CHEM 114) or (BIO 111 and [one of CHEM 110, CHEM 113, or CHEM 114] and any three AGRI courses numbered 100 or higher).
The biochemistry, structure, and function of cellular components are studied. Students examine pathways of chemotrophic and phototrophic metabolism in cells, focusing on cellular energy flow and control. Laboratory exercises emphasize the experimental evidence underlying current understanding of cell biochemistry and metabolism.
BIO 202
4 credits
Cellular Signaling and Regulation of Gene Expression
Prerequisite(s): BIO 112 and CHEM 114.
This course focuses on signal transduction in cells. Topics covered include electrical and chemical signalling in cells, DNA structure and organization of the eukaryotic genome, DNA replication, the cell cycle and cancer, biotechnology and genetic engineering, gene expression, transcription and translation mechanisms, and control of gene expression.
BIO 210
4 credits
Introduction to Ecology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 111 and BIO 112. Note the prerequisite will be waived for students who have completed the Agriculture Technology diploma. Contact the Biology department to arrange a prerequisite waiver.
This course is an introduction to the basic principles of ecological theory relating to the structure and function of ecosystems. This course includes field trips. A required weekend field trip will be held on the third weekend of the fall semester.
BIO 219
4 credits
Biogeography
Prerequisite(s): One of: AGRI 163; or BIO 105, 106, or 111; or CHEM 105, 110, 113, or 150; or GEOG 101, 102, 103, or 116; or PHYS 100, 101, 105, or 111.
Biogeography is the study of living things in space and time that integrates concepts and theory from geography, biology, geology, paleontology, and ecology. After an initial review of the history of biogeography, students will be introduced to patterns of distribution; mechanisms responsible for today’s biodiversity; island biogeography; communities and ecosystems; and the influence of physical processes on species distribution. The course will also examine extinctions and radiations and the relevance of these processes for ecological forecasts. Field trips outside of class time are required.
Note: Students with credit for GEOG 317/BIO 317 may not take BIO 217/GEOG 217 for further credit.
This course is offered as GEOG 219 and BIO 219. Students may only take one of these for credit.
BIO 220
4 credits
Genetics
Prerequisite(s): BIO 111 and one of the following: BIO 112 or any 3 AGRI courses.
This introductory genetics course deals with the principles and concepts of transmission of genetic information in all living organisms. The function of a gene will also be studied at the molecular level.
BIO 270
4 credits
Introduction to Forensic Biology
Prerequisite(s): 5 university transfer courses, one of which must be from the following list: BIO 105, BIO 106, BIO 111, BIO 112 or CHEM 150
This course introduces the student to the techniques involved in locating, processing and interpreting forensic scenes with human remains. Students will learn to interpret the effects of biological and environmental factors on forensic scenes. Students will learn basic osteology so that they can identify human remains, determine their sex, age, ancestry, and stature and correctly interpret any associated trauma to the bones. This course includes a required one-day field exercise. Students must have a current tetanus shot.
Note: This course is offered as BIO 270 and CRIM 270. Students may take only one of these for credit.
BIO 301
4 credits
Anatomy and Physiology of Invertebrates
Prerequisite(s): Any two Biology courses numbered 200 and above
The physiological, behavioural, and anatomical adaptations of major groups of invertebrate animals will be studied. Principles of functional morphology and evolutionary relationships will be emphasized. Life histories, feeding and nutrition, locomotion, respiration, excretion, reproduction, evolution, and development will be discussed. The importance of these organisms to human society and world ecology will be included where appropriate. This course may include a required field trip.
BIO 305
4 credits
Anatomy and Physiology of Vertebrates I
Prerequisite(s): Any three 200-level biology courses.
This course deals with physiological and anatomical adaptations of select vertebrate animals with an emphasis on basic physiological concepts and structure/function relationships within the vertebrate body plan.
BIO 306
4 credits
Anatomy and Physiology of Vertebrates II
Prerequisite(s): BIO 305
This course is a continuation of the comparative anatomy and physiology of the vertebrates. Organ systems covered in this course include cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, excretory, reproductive, and lymphatic/immune.
BIO 307
4 credits
Anatomy and Diversity of Plants
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210
This course focuses on the study of the histology, anatomy, morphology, and life cycles of plants. The diversity of plants will be looked at from an evolutionary point of view. Recent advances in the use of plants in forensic science and medicinal uses will be covered. Laboratory exercises and experiments will emphasize structure and function using appropriate techniques.
BIO 308
4 credits
Plant Physiology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201 and 220
Corequisite(s): BIO 320 recommended
This course examines the physiological processes that allow plants to adapt and survive in various environments. The role of light, water, and temperature in controlling plant development and function will be emphasized. How plants control developmental processes through phytohormones and plant response and adaptation to both biotic and abiotic stresses will be highlighted.
BIO 309
4 credits
Microbiology I
Prerequisite(s): BIO 111 and 112, plus 8 biology credits numbered 200 and above.
This course examines advanced concepts in modern microbiology including the fundamentals of microbial structure, bioenergetics, growth, and genetics, predominately by considering a variety of bacteria and viruses.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 203 may not take BIO 309 for further credit.
BIO 310
3 credits
Conservation Biology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210
This course examines both theoretical and practical aspects of conservation biology. Drawing from numerous biological fields, including ecology, population genetics, and evolution, this multidisciplinary approach seeks to investigate causes and extent of human impacts on the natural world and to develop practical solutions to prevent further declines. Upon successful completion of the course, students will have developed an excellent working knowledge of the global makeup of biological diversity and the threats that exist. They will be well versed in the various approaches and challenges to achieving realistic conservation goals on both local and global scales, and will be familiar with the different career opportunities open to conservation biologists.
BIO 312
3 credits
Developmental Biology
Prerequisite(s): One of BIO 202 or BIO 220, plus two other 200-level biology courses.
Embryonic development is studied at various levels: organismal, cellular, molecular, and genetic. Both classical and modern experimental approaches using several model species will be described.
BIO 315
3 credits
Equine Biology
Prerequisite(s): Any three biology courses numbered 200 or above, or AGRI 238, or permission of the instructor.
This course relates basic biology and biochemistry to applied principles and problems in the management of the domestic equine. Metabolism, nutrition, locomotion, genetics, reproductive and digestive anatomy, and physiology will be discussed, as well as common ailments of the horse.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 420E cannot take this course for further credit.
BIO 319
4 credits
Swamps and Bogs
Prerequisite(s): One of: AGRI 204 or 220; BIO 201, 202, 203, 210, or 220; or CHEM 213, 214, 221,
or 241; or GEOG 201, 202, 211, 219, 252, or 253.
Swamps and bogs, though typically representing a small portion of the ecosystems that maintain them, provide essential ecosystem function. In this course we will evaluate their function across environmental gradients, their biogeochemistry, and the flora and fauna that they support. In addition, we will evaluate wetland sediments from a variety of wetland types as proxies and archives of past environmental change at a variety of spatial and temporal scales. Field trips outside of class time (required) will emphasize local wetland form and function.
Note: Students with credit for GEOG 417 or BIO 417 cannot take this course for further credit.
This course is offered as GEOG 319 and BIO 319. Students may only take one of these for credit.
BIO 320
3 credits
Biochemistry
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201 and CHEM 213
This course deals with the structures, function, and metabolic interactions of lipids, steroids, vitamins, nucleotides, nucleic acids, amino acids, and proteins. An emphasis will be placed on metabolic processes that have an impact on human diseases.
BIO 330
4 credits
Plants and Animals of British Columbia
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits, including BIO 210
This course is an introduction to some of the most common species of plants, birds, and mammals of British Columbia. Through lecture, laboratory experience, and field trips, students will learn systematic identification of major families of organisms. The ecology and distribution of organisms will be discussed in the context of the Biogeoclimatic Ecosystem Classification system currently used in British Columbia.
BIO 335
4 credits
Methods in Freshwater Ecology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210 or GEOG 202
This course explores the biological, chemical, and physical features of lakes, rivers, and streams. These features are related to general ecological concepts and environmental concerns. The course focuses on the invertebrate and fish communities, but includes the origin and nature of lake and stream systems and the fundamentals of surface water chemistry and physics. Theoretical approaches and practical techniques will be addressed. This course includes considerable field work using local rivers and streams as well as outside fieldtrips. The laboratory introduces you to a variety of aquatic ecosystems and species and relevant sampling procedures and equipment. After completion of the course students will be competent to utilize various methods to critically evaluate freshwater systems and to conduct research in freshwater ecology.
Note: This course is offered as BIO 335 and GEOG 335. Students may take only one of these for credit.
BIO 340
4 credits
Population and Community Ecology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210 and either MATH 112 or MATH 118
This course will focus on how both biotic and abiotic environments influence the ecological adaptation of organisms. We will examine population processes related to differential natality, mortality, and dispersal in relation to these adaptations. Community aspects, such as competition and predation, and abiotic conditions that generate the observed patterns of plant and animal distribution and abundance will be examined. Patterns of community structure, including diversity, stability, biogeography, dominance, and succession, will be studied in the field. Case studies and mathematical models will be used to examine quantitative and qualitative adjustments of populations to their environments.
BIO 350
3 credits
Medical Genetics
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201, BIO 202, and BIO 220.
In this course we will be studying the inheritance of diseases in human families and analyzing molecular mechanisms through which genetic changes cause disease. We will also discuss aspects of genetic counselling and bioethics related to medical genetics.
BIO 360
4 credits
Insect Biology
Prerequisite(s): Any two Biology courses numbered 200 and above
This course is an introductory course looking at insects and their diversity. Topics include basic internal and external anatomy, moulting and growth, locomotion, reproduction, insects and their relationships with plants and animals, insects as pests, and social insects. A survey will be made of major insect orders and families and an insect collection will be required.
BIO 370
4 credits
Introduction to Mycology
Prerequisite(s): Biology 210 plus any two Biology courses numbered 200 or above.
This course is an introduction to the study of fungi. Topics include the origin and evolution, taxonomy, structure and ultrastructure, nutritional acquisition, metabolism, genomics, ecology and symbiosis, plant pathogens, entomopathogens, and human mycoses. The laboratory sessions are both lab and field oriented, with the primary goal of providing students with the skills necessary to identify the major groups of fungi in the field as well as looking at DNA sequencing techniques to help identify soil and mycorrhizal fungi. Classroom lectures are integrated with laboratory exercises, which provide students with hands-on exposure to the topics covered in lecture. Techniques used for studying fungi are covered as well.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 421G may not take BIO 370 for further credit.
BIO 380
4 credits
Ornithology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210 and a minimum of 45 university-level credits.
This course is an introduction to the study of birds and their diversity. Topics include the origin and evolution of birds; avian taxonomy; avian flight and the design of feathers; long-distance migration; avian reproductive anatomy, physiology, and reproductive strategies; avian behavior and communication; cognition; and the conservation of birds. The laboratory sessions are field-oriented, with the primary goal of providing students with the skills necessary to identify the most common birds of southwestern B.C. in the field. Classroom lectures are integrated with laboratory exercises which will provide students with hands-on exposure to the topics covered in lecture as well as many of the techniques used in the study of birds. Field trips outside of class time may be required. This course may be offered in differing formats depending on the semester taught.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 421J may not take this course for further credit.
BIO 383
3 credits
Human Physiology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201 and BIO 202.
This course is focused on the study of the physiology of humans. We will be studying the endocrine, nervous, sensory, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, excretory, and gastrointestinal systems of humans. This course is meant as a survey of the different organ systems in humans with particular focus on physiological principles and mechanisms.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 280 may not take BIO 383 for further credit.
BIO 385
3 credits
Neurobiology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 111, 112, and 201
Pre- or corequisite(s): BIO 202
This course is an introduction to human neuroanatomy and physiology. The course investigates the neural structures and activities underlying various human behaviours and system functions as well as the neural pathology underlying various brain disease and dysfunction.
BIO 390
4 credits
Animal Behaviour
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210
This course is an introduction to the relationship between the behaviour of animals and their survival and reproduction in natural environments. This course investigates physiological mechanisms underlying behaviour and surveys the theory and principles used in ecological and evolutionary analyses of animal behaviour. A field observation study will be carried out in the lab period.
BIO 401
3 credits
Molecular Biology I
Prerequisite(s): One of BIO 304, BIO 312, BIO 320 or BIO 325
A study of advanced problems and concepts of topics such as cell organization, cell function, and the control of cell division and growth. Students will be required to participate in class seminars designed to analyze the recent scientific literature on topics related to the molecular Biology of cells.
BIO 403
4 credits
Molecular Techniques I
Prerequisite(s): BIO 202, BIO 220, BIO 309 (formerly BIO 203), and one of the following: BIO 312, BIO 320, BIO 425, or BIO 401.
This is an intensive laboratory course that introduces students to the methodology used in recombinant DNA technology using an integrated series of molecular biology techniques. This course prepares students for careers in research or the biotechnology/pharmaceuticals industry.
BIO 406
3 credits
Advanced Genetics
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201, BIO 202, and BIO 220.
This course provides for a detailed discussion of the molecular basis and practical aspects of genetic recombination and mutation. The influence of genetic change through mutation and recombination on populations and quantitative traits will also be discussed.
BIO 407
3 credits
Applied Biotechnology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201, BIO 220. BIO 320 recommended.
This course examines the application of biotechnology to modern society. Specifically, the application of fermentation, tissue culture, DNA markers, rDNA techniques, xenotransplantation, and genomic approaches will be investigated. The impact of these technologies on medicine, industry, environment, and agriculture will also be explored. Lastly, the impact of biotechnology on society and the regulation of biotechnology will be discussed.
Note: Students with BIO 405 cannot take BIO 407 for further credit.
BIO 408
3 credits
Directed Studies in Biology I
Prerequisite(s): B+ average in BIO 202, BIO 210, BIO 220, and permission of instructor required
The course is designed for students in a Biology major or minor. They will have an opportunity to apply scientific principles in a creative hands-on research experience outside the usual course format. Students will develop their own projects in biology under the supervision of a faculty member with expertise in the field. The projects will be equivalent in weight and difficulty to a single upper-level course.
BIO 409
6 credits
Directed Studies in Biology II
Prerequisite(s): B+ average in BIO 202, 210, 220, and permission of instructor
Biology 409 is similar to Biology 408, but is designed to accommodate more ambitious projects. This course may be taken over two semesters as 409A and 409B.
BIO 410
4 credits
Plant Ecology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210 or GEOG 219/BIO 219 (formerly GEOG 317/BIO 317).
This course provides students with an understanding of factors, biotic and abiotic, responsible for vegetation distribution patterns across landscapes. In particular, lectures will address plants at the individual, population, and community levels and demonstrate how plants interact with their physical environment – soils, water, and climate. Field trips and laboratory exercises will introduce methodologies of vegetation sampling, analysis, and interpretation. Field trips outside of class time are required.
Note: This course is offered as both BIO 410 and GEOG 410. Students may take only one of these for credit.
BIO 414
3 credits
Genomics
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201, 202, and 220
This course examines how genetic information is encoded, ordered, and expressed in whole organisms. Methods for obtaining, assembling, and annotating genomic sequences are explored. Students gain hands-on computer experience using various bioinformatic tools to handle and interpret genomic sequence data.
BIO 415
3 credits
Cancer Biology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 220, and any one of BIO 401, 403, 405, or 407
Cancer biology examines the genetic, developmental and environmental basis of this disease, and explores current as well as future anti-cancer treatments. Topics to be covered include tumorgenesis; control of the cell cycle; the role of oncogenes; tumor suppressor genes; angiogenesis; metastasis; immunotherapy; and novel approaches to cancer treatment.
BIO 416
3 credits
Evolution
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210 and BIO 220, and any three 300- or 400-level biology courses.
Evolution is conceptually the single most important biological discipline because it ties together all fields of biology. This course is an investigation of the mechanisms and processes of the evolution of biological organisms. The history and development of evolutionary thought and contemporary issues are discussed.
BIO 419
4 credits
Paleoecology
Prerequisite(s): GEOG 315 or GEOG 317; or BIO 210 and one of BIO 307, BIO 330, or BIO 340
Paleoecology is the study of past environments through the use of proxies such as pollen and other organic walled microfossils, plant macrofossils, diatoms, foraminifera, testate amoebae, and dinoflagellate cysts. During this course you will learn how these proxies can be used to reconstruct past environmental change driven by climate, sea-level change, earthquakes, floods, and fire. For the laboratory portion of the course we will make field trips to nearby locations to sample wetland sediments that we will later analyze with microscopes. Microfossils and macrofossils will be isolated and identified using standard taxonomic keys. Field trips outside of class time may be required. This course satisfies an Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of B.C. requirement.
Note: This course is offered as GEOG 419 and BIO 419. Students may only take one of these for credit.
BIO 420
3 credits
Special Topics in Biology
Prerequisite(s): Any three Biology courses numbered 200 or above, or permission of the instructor
Students will have an opportunity for an in-depth investigation of specialist areas in biology, under the guidance of an expert in the field. Students must check with the Biology department to determine course availability and content area for a particular semester.
BIO 421
4 credits
Special Topics in Applied Biology
Prerequisite(s): Any three biology courses numbered 200 or above
In this course students will have an opportunity to explore a specialized aspect of biology with an expert in the field. Topics will be chosen from a wide range of biological areas with an emphasis on field or laboratory applications to regional issues. Field trips and/or laboratory exercises will introduce methodologies of the specialist area. Field trips outside of class time may be required.
BIO 425
4 credits
Introductory Medical Microbiology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 309.
The course focuses on the relationship between human health and microbes. The functioning of the immune system, the normal human flora, and diseases caused by microbial pathogens will be studied.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 325 cannot take BIO 425 for further credit.
BIO 426
4 credits
Environmental Microbiology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201 and 309
There has been an increase in interest in environmental microbiology since the late 1980s. This exciting field encompasses the physiology, ecology, biochemistry, and genetics of microorganisms, with potential for environmental applications. This course will place emphasis on environmental sustainability. To this end, studies will focus on agricultural uses of micro-organisms, interactions between micro-organisms and with higher organisms, tracking pathogens in the environment, nutrient cycling, pollution, and bioremediation. Success in environmental sustainability will require the application of molecular biology to microbial ecology and the use of genetically engineered micro-organisms. As well, it will require an interdisciplinary approach with an interface between microbiology, biogeochemistry, aquatic and organic chemistry, hydrogeology, and soil physics. This course will therefore also provide students with an introduction to molecular biological techniques and how they pertain to environmental microbiology and interaction with these other disciplines.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 326 may not take BIO 426 for further credit.
BIO 430
3 credits
Forest Ecology
Prerequisite(s): 75 university-level credits, including BIO 210.
This course provides an integrative, interdisciplinary discussion of the structure and function of forest ecosystems, with a special reference to forests of British Columbia and Canada. Topics to be covered will include the following: the concept of ecosystem studies; global and local variations in forest type; forest ecosystem classification; processes controlling ecosystem structure and function; disturbances, succession and ecosystem function of boreal forests; and computer modeling in ecosystem studies.
BIO 470
4 credits
Advanced Forensic Biology
Prerequisite(s): CRIM 270 or BIO 270
This course further develops the investigative techniques and methodology of forensic biology. Topics of further study will include the investigation and methods of processing and interpreting human remains. Students will use biological and physical features of the environment to interpret remains recovered from buried, scattered, underwater (ocean and freshwater), and arson scenes. Advanced studies will examine juvenile and developmental osteology. New advancements in the field involving DNA and individualizing techniques will also be examined. This course includes a required one-day field exercise. Students must have a current tetanus shot and steel toed boots.
Note: This course is offered as BIO 470 and CRIM 470. Students may take only one of these for credit.
BIO 477
4 credits
Traditional Ecological Knowledges
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits
This course explores in depth Indigenous approaches to botany, zoology, and ecology. Topics may include: Indigenous systems of classification; contexts in which Indigenous peoples develop and utilize traditional ecological knowledge; methods of learning about traditional ecological knowledge from knowledgeable Indigenous elders and harvesters; traditional and new Indigenous approaches to natural resource (co)management; methods of caring for, harvesting, and/or using plants and animals; and the relationship of traditional ecological knowledge to other aspects of Indigenous ways of life, culture, and territorial claims. There will be an emphasis on the traditional ecological knowledge of the North West Coast.
Note: This course includes class field trips
Note: This course is offered as IPK 477 and BIO 477. Students may take only one of these for credit.
BIO 496
1 credit
Advanced Biological Topics
Prerequisite(s): Any three Biology courses numbered 200 or above and permission of the instructor.
This course allows students in Biology to participate in independent studies based on current topics in Biology. Students will have the opportunity for an in-depth investigation of a specialist area of biology, under the guidance of an expert in the field. Students must check with the Biology department to determine course availability and content area of a particular semester. Different letters will be used for each topic, and students may repeat the course for credit provided the topic is different.
BIO 497
1 credit
Topical Biology Seminar
Prerequisite(s): BIO 202 and any one Biology course 200-level or higher.
This course allows students in Biology to participate in seminars based on current topics in Biology. Students will give seminars based on primary literature and critically evaluate seminars given by other students and expert guest speakers from UFV and other institutions. This course will be required for students in the Honours program but open to all students who meet the prerequisites. Students registered in the Honours program will be given priority registration.
BIO 498
2 credits
Advanced Biological Topics
Prerequisite(s): Any three Biology courses numbered 200 or above and permission of the instructor.
This course allows students in Biology to participate in independent studies based on current topics in Biology. Students will have the opportunity for an in-depth investigation of a specialist area of biology, under the guidance of an expert in the field. Students must check with the Biology department to determine course availability and content area of a particular semester. Different letters will be used for each topic, and students may repeat the course for credit provided the topic is different.
BIO 499
9 credits
Directed Studies in Honours Biology
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in Biology honours degree program and completion of at least 10 upper-level Biology credits.
Biology 499 is a research-based course taken over two semesters as BIO 499A and BIO 499B. Students will conduct a research project under the supervision of a faculty member or an approved off-campus supervisor. The results of the research will be written as a thesis and presented both orally and in poster format. Students will be required to present their research at an appropriate student research forum.
