Biological Sciences

A general course designed for students other than biology or environmental studies majors or minors. Laboratory.

An introduction to the major themes of biology: organismal diversity, evolution and ecology, and the cellular, genetic, and metabolic basis of life. Intended for Biology majors or minors or other programs that may require the completion of a foundational biology course.  Laboratory.

On-site supervised experience in the medical, dental, pharmacy, or veterinary sciences. Forty-eight hours of shadowing required. There will be five evening meetings to discuss topics to prepare for professional school interviews.

An introduction to marine science with an emphasis on the ecology of marine life and marine ecosystems.

This lab is designed to introduce students to the properties of cells and tissues in the nervous, respiratory, skeletal, and cardiovascular systems.  Both the microscopic and electrical properties of cells will be examined.

This lab is designed to introduced students to the properties of cells and tissues in the nervous, urinary, digestive, reproductive, and immune systems.  Both the microscopic and electrical properties of cells will be examined. 

Introduction to the diversity, cell biology, physiology, genetics, ecology, and medical impact of microorganisms and viruses. Laboratory.

Study of micro and macro evolutionary processes and the ecology of populations, communities, and ecosystems. Laboratory.

Principles of plant morphology, identification, and classification of vascular plants. Field-oriented laboratory emphasizes collection and identification techniques, as well as on-sight recognition of local flora in winter and spring conditions.

A topical capstone course which draws upon skills, knowledge, and experiences students have gained throughout their years of college study, particularly in biology. Emphasizes library research, scientific writing, oral presentations, discussion, and critical thinking.

The genetic and cellular mechanisms underlying the development of multicellular organisms. Topics include control of gene expression, pattern formation, and selected topics in animal and plant development. Emphasis on reading and discussion of current research literature.

See ENV433

Examination of the major anthropogenic threats to biological diversity and solutions for preserving this diversity. Topics include the rationale for preserving biodiversity, threats that arise at population community and ecosystem levels, and in- and ex-situ conservation strategies.

An independent research project supervised by a member of the department.

Students may receive graduation credit for internships with appropriate disciplinary content that meet the faculty-approved criteria for academic internships. Such experiences include a significant reflective component and must be supervised by a full-time member of the Georgetown College faculty.

A study of the principles of environmental science and their application to current issues. Emphasis is placed on the use of natural resources (energy, mineral, water, and biological) and the consequences of that use (resource depletion, water and air pollution, hazardous and non-hazardous waste).