BIO 083
3 credits
Adult Basic Education (ABE) Advanced Biology
Prerequisite(s): None. English 10 recommended.
A university preparatory course equivalent to Biology 11. Topics include ecology as it relates to current environmental problems; cell structure, function, and reproduction; an 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 that reinforce classroom topics.
BIO 093
3 credits
Provincial-Level Biology
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: (Anatomy and Physiology 12 or Biology 12 with a C- or better) or (BIO 083, Life Sciences 11, or Biology 11 with a C+ or better). Note: Chemistry 11 or CHEM 083, and/or Principles of Mathematics 11, Applications of Mathematics 11, Foundations of Mathematics 11, Pre-calculus 11, or MATH 085 are highly recommended.
Mammalian organ systems will be studied in detail. Organic and basic chemical processes will be used as a basis of study for the organ systems investigated. 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, biotechnology, and basic ecology are studied in lectures and laboratory using the human organism as a focus.
Note: Students with credit for any Biology course numbered above 110 may not take this course 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 the following: ([one of Life Sciences 11, 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 Anatomy and Physiology 12, 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]).
A detailed overview of current concepts in biology designed for students majoring in biology or applying to professional programs. Emphasizes cellular basis of life, biochemical processes, cell structure, and genetics.
BIO 112
5 credits
Introductory Biology II
Prerequisite(s): BIO 111.
A continuation of the study of core biological concepts from BIO 111, designed for students majoring in biology or applying to professional programs. Includes an examination of ecology, anatomy and physiology, biodiversity, and evolution.
BIO 201
4 credits
Cell Biochemistry/Metabolism
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: (BIO 112 and CHEM 114, both with a C+ or better) or (BIO 111, [CHEM 110 or CHEM 113], and [two of AGRI 123, AGRI 124, AGRI 129, AGRI 163, AGRI 203, AGRI 204, or AGRI 220], all with a C+ or better).
Studies the biochemistry, structure, and function of cellular components. 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
Cell Signaling/Gene Regulation
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: (BIO 112 and CHEM 114, both with a C+ or better) or (BIO 111, [CHEM 110 or CHEM 113], and [two of AGRI 123, AGRI 124, AGRI 129, AGRI 163, AGRI 203, AGRI 204, or AGRI 220], all with a C+ or better).
Focuses on cellular signal transduction. Topics covered include electrical and chemical signaling, DNA structure and genome organization, the cell cycle and cancer, biotechnology and genetic engineering, transcription and translation mechanisms, and the regulation of gene expression.
BIO 210
4 credits
Introduction to Ecology
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: (BIO 112 and CHEM 114, both with a C+ or better) or (BIO 111, [CHEM 110 or CHEM 113], and [two of AGRI 123, AGRI 124, AGRI 129, AGRI 163, AGRI 203, AGRI 204, or AGRI 220], all with a C+ or better).
An introduction to fundamental ecological principles, theories, and methods at the individual, population, community, and ecosystem levels. Interactions between organisms and their abiotic and biotic environments are also examined, as well as the interrelationship between humans and the environment.
Note: Field trips outside of class time may be required.
BIO 219
4 credits
Biogeography
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: AGRI 163, BIO 105, BIO 106, BIO 111, CHEM 105, CHEM 110, CHEM 113, CHEM 150, GEOG 101, GEOG 102, GEOG 103, GEOG 116, PHYS 100, PHYS 101, PHYS 105, or PHYS 111.
Biogeography integrates geography, biology, geology, paleontology, and ecology. Learn how biogeographers study species distribution, track continental drift, and use fossils to help understand evolutionary changes in flora and fauna through geologic time.
Note: Field trips outside of class time will be required. Please refer to the department website for field trip scheduling information.
Note: This course is offered as GEOG 219 (formerly GEOG 317) and BIO 219 (formerly BIO 317). Students may take only one of these for credit.
BIO 220
4 credits
Genetics
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: (BIO 112 and CHEM 114, both with a C+ or better) or (BIO 111, [CHEM 110 or CHEM 113], and [two of AGRI 123, AGRI 124, AGRI 129, AGRI 163, AGRI 203, AGRI 204, or AGRI 220], all with a C+ or better).
Introductory genetics course dealing with the principles and concepts of transmission of genetic information in all living organisms. The function of a gene will be studied at the molecular level.
BIO 301
4 credits
Anatomy and Physiology of Invertebrates
Prerequisite(s): Any two Biology courses 200-level and above.
An introduction to one of the most abundant life forms on earth. Form and function, with reference to ecology and human impact, will be discussed and examined. Phylogenetic and evolutionary relationships will be emphasized with local examples of this group.
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.
Focuses on the anatomy and life cycles of plants. Indigenous knowledge, evolutionary relationships, advances in forensics, and medicinal uses of plants will be explored. Laboratory exercises will focus on local flora.
Note: Field trips outside of class time may be required.
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 319
4 credits
Swamps and Bogs
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: AGRI 204, AGRI 220, BIO 201, BIO 202, BIO 203, BIO 210, BIO 220, CHEM 213, CHEM 214, CHEM 221, CHEM 241, GEOG 201, GEOG 202, GEOG 211, GEOG 219/BIO 219, GEOG 252, GEOG 253, or GEOG 257/CMNS 257.
Swamps, bogs, and other types of wetlands provide essential ecosystem functions to watersheds that support them. Using hydrology, soils, and vegetation, students will learn how to delineate wetland boundaries and assess biogeochemical cycling along environmental gradients.
Note: Field trips outside of class time will be required. Please refer to the department website for field trip scheduling information.
Note: This course is offered as GEOG 319 (formerly GEOG 417) and BIO 319 (formerly BIO 417). Students may take only 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.
Note: This course is offered as BIO 320 and BIOC 320. Students may take only one of these for credit.
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 333
3 credits
Bioinformatics I
Prerequisite(s): BIO 220.
An introduction to major concepts in bioinformatics. Students will use both classroom and computer-based methods to explore how genomic and proteomic data is obtained, assembled, and analyzed. Students will be introduced to software and databases used in bioinformatic analysis.
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.
Examines the inheritance of diseases in human families and analyzes molecular mechanisms through which genetic changes cause disease. Discusses aspects of genetic counselling and bioethics related to medical genetics.
BIO 357
4 credits
Conservation GIS
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits.
Concepts in conservation planning and management will be investigated through the application of spatial analysis techniques and Geography Information Systems (GIS).
Note: This course is offered as GEOG 357 and BIO 357. Students may take only one of these for credit.
Note: Students with credit for GEOG 300J cannot take this course for further credit.
Note: Field trips outside of class time may be required. Please refer to the department website for field trip scheduling information.
BIO 360
4 credits
Insect Biology
Prerequisite(s): Any two Biology courses numbered 200 and above.
Topics include 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 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, BIO 112, and BIO 201.
Pre- or corequisite(s): BIO 202
An introduction to human neuroanatomy and neurophysiology. This course investigates the neural structures and activities underlying various human behaviours and system functions as well as the neural pathology underlying various brain disorders.
BIO 390
4 credits
Animal Behaviour
Prerequisite(s): BIO 210
An introduction to the relationship between the behaviour of animals and their survival and reproduction in natural environments. This course surveys the theory and principles used in ecological and evolutionary analyses of animal behaviour.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 420T cannot take this course for further credit.
BIO 401
3 credits
Molecular Biology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201, BIO 202, and BIO 220.
A study of the techniques employed in molecular biology to study advanced problems and concepts such as gene expression, 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 [formerly BIO 325], 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.
Note: This course is offered as BIO 403 and BIOC 403. Students may take only one of these for credit.
BIO 406
3 credits
Advanced Genetics
Prerequisite(s): BIO 202 and BIO 220.
This course will cover a number of areas of interest in genetics, including the genetics of human complex disease, epigenetics and environmental influences on our genes, the genetics of infectious disease, and legal and ethical issues arising from advances in genetics.
BIO 407
3 credits
Applied Biotechnology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201, BIO 220. BIO 320 recommended.
Biotechnology utilizes biological processes, organisms, or systems for human use. This course examines the application of biotechnology to disciplines such as genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology, and the impact these technologies have on medicine, industry, the environment, and agriculture.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 405 cannot take this course for further credit.
BIO 408
3 credits
Directed Studies in Biology I
Prerequisite(s): B+ or better in BIO 202, 210, and 220, and instructor's permission.
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.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 409 or BIO 499 cannot take this course for further credit.
BIO 409
6 credits
Directed Studies in Biology II
Prerequisite(s): B+ or better in BIO 202, 210, and 220, and instructor's permission.
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.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 408 or BIO 499 cannot take this course for further credit.
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, BIO 202, and BIO 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 bioinformatics tools to handle and interpret genomic sequence data.
Note: This course is offered as BIO 414 and BIOS 414. Students may take only one of these for credit.
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): One of the following: GEOG 302, GEOG 303, GEOG 304, GEOG 307, GEOG 308, GEOG 315, GEOG 319/BIO 319, GEOG 335, BIO 301, BIO 305, BIO 306, BIO 307, BIO 308, BIO 310, BIO 330, BIO 335, BIO 340, BIO 360, or BIO 370.
Paleoecology is the study of past environments through the use of fossils, geochemistry, and radiometric dating. During this course you will learn how to reconstruct past environmental change driven by climate, sea-level change, earthquakes, floods, and fire.
Note: Field trips outside of class time will be required. Please refer to the department website for field trip scheduling information.
Note: This course is offered as GEOG 419 and BIO 419. Students may take only one of these for credit.
BIO 420
3 credits
Special Topics in Biology
Prerequisite(s): Any three BIO courses numbered 200 or above, or instructor’s permission.
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 433
3 credits
Bioinformatics II
Prerequisite(s): BIO 333.
Students will consider recent literature and focus on current topics in bioinformatics, including analysis of the benefits and limitations of existing software, unique challenges in the analysis of different “omics” data, as well as the legal and ethical implications involved with examining and storing genetic information.
BIO 442
8 credits
Biological Field School
Prerequisite(s): Any three BIO courses numbered 200 or above and permission of the department.
An opportunity for an intensive, prolonged, biological learning experience which takes place in unique locations away from the UFV campus. Students will participate in hands-on research in the field and will analyze and present their findings.
Note: Students must check with the biology department to determine course availability and content area for a particular semester.
Note: This course will be offered under different letter designations (e.g. C-Z) representing different topics. This course may be repeated for credit provided the letter designation differs. However, students can only take one BIO 442 topic for upper-level Biology credit for the Biology Honours, major, or minor.
BIO 448
3 credits
Immunology
Prerequisite(s): BIO 201, BIO 202, and BIO 220.
This course is designed to explore the cellular and molecular participants in the immune response. The relationship between immune mechanisms and medical problems will also be discussed, such as allergy, autoimmunity, immunodeficiency, infection, and organ transplantation.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 420R cannot take this course for further credit.
BIO 477
4 credits
Traditional Ecological Knowledges
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits including 6 credits of IPK or FNST. Biology students can contact the instructor for permission to register.
This course explores Indigenous approaches to botany, zoology, and ecology. Possible topics include classification, traditional ecological knowledge, harvesting, natural resource management, animal care, and relationships to other aspects of Indigenous life, culture, and land claims. Emphasis is on traditional Northwest Coast knowledge.
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 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
Honours Research Thesis
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Biology Honours and completion of at least 10 BIO credits 300-level or above.
Students will conduct a biology research project under the supervision of a researcher (e.g. faculty member) over two semesters. The research results will be written as a thesis and presented as a seminar and at a research conference.
Note: Students with credit for BIO 408 or BIO 409 cannot take this course for further credit.
