Biology is an area of explosive scientific, intellectual, and technological advances.
Attention is focusing on the origin and evolution of living organisms (even their possible existence on other planets), the molecular mechanics of heredity, the processes of disease and immunity, the ecological balance among life forms, the effect of synthetic chemicals on molecular functions of the cell, the biological basis of behavior, and the extraordinary technologies for the creation of useful new characteristics in microorganisms, plants, and animals.
The biology program at Purchase College embodies the excitement of the dramatic advances in this rapidly expanding field. Students actively participate in the life sciences, studying and pursuing research with faculty who are active in their fields.
The biology program at Purchase College may be pursued from a variety of perspectives, and our majors are well prepared for graduate school, medical school, teaching, and careers with high-tech industries. Biology majors should be aware that, of all the natural sciences, biology is the least able to stand alone as a discipline; mathematics, physics, and especially chemistry are important for a meaningful appreciation of life processes. In consultation with a faculty advisor, the student will expand upon this base by choosing advanced subjects related to particular objectives. Advanced courses are offered in seven concentrations.
Biology courses are also challenging, rewarding, and immediately relevant studies for students in other disciplines. Students who major in other subjects and have a strong secondary interest in biology may consider a biology minor.
There are two categories of requirements for all biology majors: biology courses and basic science support courses. General Biology I and II, Cell Biology, and the five upper-level electives in the “biology courses” category must be passed with a grade of C- or higher. Students must attain at least a 2.0 (C) GPA in courses used to satisfy the requirements for the major, including the “biology courses” category (excluding the senior project) and the “basic science support courses” category. Students majoring in biology may choose a concentration, but one is not required. NOTE: AP Biology cannot satisfy the requirement for General Biology I and/or II.
BIO 3530/Cell Biology (successful completion of BIO 3530 is a prerequisite for all upper-level biology electives, except BIO 3850)
Five upper-level biology electives, as follows; these must include at least one at the 4000 level and at least four lab studies, taken either in conjunction with lecture courses or as separately registered lab courses:
One of the following courses in biological mechanisms: BIO 3160/Genetics BIO 3170/Developmental Biology BIO 3250/Animal Physiology BIO 4620/Molecular Biology
One of the following courses in biodiversity and ecology: BIO 3360/Microbiology BIO 3430/Vertebrate Zoology BIO 3440/Invertebrate Zoology BIO3850/Coral Reef Biology and Ecology BIO4720/Evolution BIO4721/Evolution Lab ENV 3080/Wildlife Ecology ENV 3120/General Ecology ENV 3165/Ornithology ENV 3250 and 3251/Ecology of Urban Environments and Lab ENV 3805/Conservation Biology
Three additional upper-level biology electives
BIO 3890/Biology Junior Seminar
SPJ 4990/Senior Project I
SPJ 4991/Senior Project II If a student elects to conduct a senior project in an area other than the life sciences, two additional biology courses are required.
Basic Science Support Courses
CHE 1550 and 1551/General Chemistry I and Lab
CHE 1560 and 1561/General Chemistry II and Lab
CHE 3310 and 3311/Organic Chemistry I and Lab
CHE 3320 and 3321/Organic Chemistry II and Lab
One of the following courses: ENV 3025/Biostatistics or MAT 1600/Introductory Statistics or PSY 2320/Behavioral Statistics or PSY 3635/Honors Seminar in Statistics and Research Design MAT 1500/Calculus I MAT 1510/Calculus II MAT 1520/Computer Science I MAT 3680/Informatics in Biology and Medicine
Additional notes for biology majors:
Many students will want to study additional mathematics. Graduate schools generally require Calculus I; professional schools may require either Calculus I or Statistics.
A year of physics is highly recommended (PHY 1510–1511/Introductory Physics I with lab and PHY 1520–1521/Introductory Physics II with lab). Professional and graduate schools generally require physics.
Some professional and graduate schools may not accept high school AP courses as substitutes for college introductory science courses (e.g., General Biology, General Chemistry, Introductory Physics).
There are two categories of requirements for all biology majors: biology courses and basic science support courses. General Biology I and II, Cell Biology, and the seven upper-level electives in the “biology courses” category must be passed with a grade of C- or higher. Students must attain at least a 2.0 (C) GPA in courses used to satisfy the requirements for the major, including the “biology courses” category (excluding the senior project) and the “basic science support courses” category. Students majoring in biology may choose a concentration, but one is not required.
In addition to meeting general degree requirements, all BS majors in biology must complete the following courses:
Biology Courses:
BIO 1550/General Biology I
BIO 1551/General Biology I Lab
BIO 1560/General Biology II
BIO 1561/General Biology II Lab
BIO 1880/Biology Freshman Seminar
BIO 2890/Biology Program Seminar
BIO 3530/Cell Biology (successful completion of BIO 3530 is a prerequisite for all upper-level biology electives, except BIO 3850)
Seven upper-level biology electives, as follows; these must include at least two at the 4000 level and at least four lab courses, taken either in conjunction with lecture courses or as separately registered lab courses:
BIO 4620/Molecular Biology or CHE 4610/Biochemistry
One of the following courses in biological mechanisms: BIO 3160/Genetics BIO 3170/Developmental Biology BIO 3250/Animal Physiology BIO 4620/Molecular Biology
One of the following courses in biodiversity and ecology: BIO 3360/Microbiology BIO 3430/Vertebrate Zoology BIO 3440/Invertebrate Zoology BIO 3850/Coral Reef Biology and Ecology BIO4720/Evolution BIO4721/Evolution Lab ENV 3080 / Wildlife Ecology ENV 3120/General Ecology ENV 3165/Ornithology ENV 3250 and 3251/Ecology of Urban Environments and Lab ENV 3805/Conservation Biology
Four additional upper-level biology electives
BIO 3890/Biology Junior Seminar
SPJ 4990/Senior Project I*
SPJ 4991/Senior Project II* *The senior project must be an original research project.
Basic Science Support Courses
CHE 1550 and 1551/General Chemistry I and Lab
CHE 1560 and 1561/General Chemistry II and Lab
CHE 3310 and 3311/Organic Chemistry I and Lab
CHE 3320 and 3321/Organic Chemistry II and Lab
Two of the following courses: * ENV 3025/Biostatistics or * MAT 1600/Introductory Statistics or * PSY 2320/Behavioral Statistics or * PSY 3635/Honors Seminar in Statistics and Research Design MAT 1500/Calculus I MAT 1510/Calculus II MAT 1520/Computer Science I MAT 3680/Informatics in Biology and Medicine
* Only one statistics course can count towards major requirements.
Additional notes for biology majors:
Many students will want to study additional mathematics. Graduate schools generally require Calculus I; professional schools may require either Calculus I or Statistics.
A year of physics is highly recommended (PHY 1510–1511/Introductory Physics I with lab and PHY 1520–1521/Introductory Physics II with lab). Professional and graduate schools generally require physics.
Some professional and graduate schools may not accept high school AP courses as substitutes for college introductory science courses (e.g., General Biology, General Chemistry, Introductory Physics).
The purpose of the biology minor is to encourage students who are majoring in other disciplines to follow their interest in biology by completing a coherent program of study.
Interested students must submit a completed Declaration of Minor Form to the Department Chair of Biology. Upon admission to the biology minor, a student is assigned a minor advisor who will assist in designing an appropriate program.
Academic Requirements for the Minor in Biology
A total of 20 credits in biology, including two of the following courses:
BIO 1510/Human Anatomy and Physiology I: Anatomy and Physiology
BIO 1520/Human Anatomy and Physiology II: Physiology and Nutrition
BIO 1550/General Biology I
BIO 1560/General Biology II
A biology-related section of FRS 1200/Science in the Modern World
Additional courses needed to complete 20 credits are to be selected in consultation with the biology minor advisor:
Courses may be chosen from any available biology courses for which the prerequisites are met.
At least two courses must be at the 2000 level or above. Advanced courses for students not taking the General Biology sequence include the following (with permission of instructor): BIO 3160/Genetics BIO 3250/Animal Physiology BIO 3430/Vertebrate Zoology BIO 3440/Invertebrate Zoology BUI 3530/Cell Biology BIO 4720/Evolution BIO 4770/Scanning Electron Microscopy and Digital Imaging ENV 3805/Conservation Biology ENV 3820/Animal Behavior ENV 4460/Marine Ecology PSY 3660/Physiological Psychology
Note: Lab credit that accompanies the approved lecture courses listed above can also count towards the 20 credit minimum needed for the minor.
Chemistry Minor for Biology Majors
Many biology majors at Purchase qualify for a minor in chemistry. Biology majors who complete Biochemistry for the BS have already taken enough chemistry and need only submit the Declaration of Minor. Other biology students must take only one course beyond Organic Chemistry (e.g., CHE 3150, 3510, or 4610).
Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service
Courses
Introduction to the organ systems of the human body, including the neuromuscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and digestive systems. The physiological mechanisms of adaptation to exercise are also considered.
Credits: 4
Department: Biology
Students learn about both form and function of the human body. Content includes cells and tissues; gross and microscopic anatomy; integumentary, skeletal, and muscular systems; and kinesiology. Lab exercises use microscope slides, models, and dissection for a hands-on approach and a practical knowledge of anatomy.
Credits: 1.5
PREREQ: BIO1510
Department: Biology
Introduction to the human body, emphasizing general physiological processes. The body is studied from the viewpoint of homeostasis, concentrating on the relationship of food to the functioning living organism in health and disease. Topics of current interest, controversies, and myths are highlighted.
Credits: 4
Department: Biology
Students learn about both form and function of the human body. Content includes neuroanatomy and neurophysiology; senses (vision, olfaction, taste, hearing, equilibrium); and functional anatomy/physiology of the endocrine, urinary, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. Lab exercises use microscope slides, models, and dissection for a hands-on approach and a practical knowledge of anatomy.
Credits: 1.5
PREREQ: BIO1520
Department: Biology
Introduction to contemporary biology, covering cell structure and function, genetics, development, and molecular biology. This course is for science majors and premedical students; students with limited high school science and mathematics can satisfy college distribution requirements with BIO 1510 or 1520.
Credits: 4
Department: Biology
Lab exercises on cell organization, cell division, genetics, enzyme kinetics, photosynthesis, and development, and the use of light microscopes, spectrophotometer, and chromatography. Required for premedical students, biology majors, biochemistry majors, and environmental studies majors.
Credits: 1.5
PREREQ: BIO1550
Department: Biology
Second semester of an introduction to contemporary biology, covering plant and animal morphology and physiology, ecology, behavior, and evolution. This course is for science majors and premedical students; students with limited high school science and mathematics can satisfy college distribution requirements with BIO 1510 or 1520.
Credits: 4
Department: Biology
Vertebrate anatomy and physiology, and examination of selected plant and animal phyla through lab exercises, experiments, and field trips. Required for premedical students, biology majors, and environmental studies majors.
Credits: 1.5
PREREQ: BIO1560
Department: Biology
This supplement to BIO 1550 introduces biology majors and undeclared potential majors to the biology program and faculty and assists students in planning and succeeding in their course of study. Required for all freshman biology majors enrolled in BIO 1550.
Credits: 1
COREQ: BIO1550
Department: Biology
An introduction to biology and ecology of coral reefs, using scuba diving. Extensive field work, observations of living organisms, projects, lectures, and labs. Topics include reef coral biology and identification; field sampling; reef monitoring; threats to reefs; reef inhabitants (invertebrates, fish, sea turtles, algae); dolphins and whales; mangroves and sea grasses; local culture, history, and environment; substance and process of science. Note: This course involves scuba diving. It will be possible to learn to scuba dive during the program or to complete the open-water dives for a scuba course taken before the program. Scuba divers must be certified by a nationally recognized organization. All students must be physically capable and healthy enough for field work, scuba diving, and boat work; able to swim and willing to scuba dive in the ocean and from boats; and have a physician’s certification of adequate health and physical fitness to participate in course activities.
Credits: 4
Department: Biology
Introduces biology majors and potential majors to the field of study, to the faculty, to the opportunities available to students and graduates, and to necessary computer and writing skills. Programs are presented by biology faculty members and include readings of relevant scientific papers, associated writing assignments, labs, and field trips. Required for all biology majors and potential majors immediately following BIO 1550 and 1560, and for all transfer students.
Credits: 2
PREREQ: BIO1550 Or BIO1560
Department: Biology
Basic but intensive survey of the mechanisms of heredity, covering gametogenesis, mutagenesis, chromosome mapping, transmission genetics, and an introduction to population genetics. The lab is optional.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Lab and statistical exercises employing Drosophila, human, and plant material, selected to complement the lecture course.
Credits: 1.5
PREREQ: BIO3160
Department: Biology
Lecture course examining patterns and processes of animal development from fertilization to organogenesis in vertebrates and invertebrates. Emphasis is placed on the genetic control of development and on molecular and cellular mechanisms of differentiation and morphogenesis. The lab is optional.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO3530 And CHE1550 And CHE1560
Department: Biology
Students perform lab studies on the embryology of the sea urchin, frog, chick, and zebrafish, as well as slime mold development, gametogenesis, regeneration, and insect development. Students also perform gene knockdown experiments and examine the phenotypic consequences.
Credits: 1.5
PREREQ: BIO3170
Department: Biology
Lecture and lab course trains students in modern methods. Topics may include isolation and characterization of biomolecules, plasmids, and cellular organelles; restriction endonuclease mapping; transformation with recombinant DNA molecules; DNA amplification using polymerase chain reaction; nucleic acid hybridization; tissue culture; and fluorescent labeling.
Credits: 3.5
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Lecture and lab course trains students in modern methods for work in the biotechnology industry. Lectures and visiting experts provide an overview of the industry and needed skills. Labs may include isolation/characterization of biomolecules and plasmids, restriction endonuclease mapping, transformation with recombinant DNA molecules, DNA amplification using polymerase chain reaction, and nucleic acid hybridization.
Credits: 5.5
PREREQ: BIO3530 And (BIO3200 Or BIO3670 )
Department: Biology
Lecture course examining the major organ systems of the vertebrates. Topics include neurophysiology and sensory biology, muscle contraction, cardiovascular physiology, respiratory physiology, osmoregulation, and digestion. Physiological adaptations of vertebrates to extreme environments (e.g., high altitude and aquatic hypoxia) are also discussed.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Lab course on vertebrate (animal and human) physiology. Topics include neurophysiology and sensory biology, muscle contraction, cardiovascular physiology (anatomy, blood pressure, EKG), respiratory physiology, exercise physiology, fluid balance, and osmoregulation.
Credits: 1.5
PREREQ: BIO1550 And BIO1560 And BIO3530 And CHE1550 And CHE1560 And BIO3250
Department: Biology
Lecture and lab course examining the anatomy and life processes of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria and viruses. Topics include macromolecular aspects of growth, expression of genetic information, ecological adaptations, and infection and immunity. Lab exercises require time in addition to the scheduled period.
Credits: 5.5
PREREQ: BIO3530 And CHE1550 And CHE1560
Department: Biology
Lecture and lab course examining the evolution of the major groups of vertebrates and emphasizing the interrelationship of vertebrate form, function, and environment in extinct and extant groups. Topics include locomotion, respiration, circulation, osmoregulation, and sensory physiology. The required lab covers anatomy, morphology, behavior, and evolution of vertebrates and includes studies at the American Museum of Natural History, the Bronx Zoo, the Norwalk Maritime Center, and Greenwich Audubon.
Credits: 5.5
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
A survey of the biology of freshwater, marine, and terrestrial invertebrates. Considers structure, function, development, evolution, ecology, and phylogenetic relationships. The required lab includes examination of representative species (as possible) and some independent field work to study/collect invertebrates in natural environments.
Credits: 5.5
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Cellular organization and function, and molecular genetics, with emphasis on eukaryotic cells. Topics include cellular genomes; replication and maintenance of genomic DNA; RNA and protein synthesis, processing, and regulation; macromolecular structure and processes of organelles; vesicular transport; cytoskeleton; the cell surface; cell signaling; and cell cycle. Students prepare a paper based on current literature in the field. Required for all biology majors immediately following BIO 1550 and 1560.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO1550 And BIO1560 And BIO2890 And CHE1550
Department: Biology
An introduction to biology and ecology of coral reefs, using scuba diving. Extensive field work, observations of living organisms, projects, lectures, and labs. Topics include reef coral biology and identification; field sampling; reef monitoring; threats to reefs; reef inhabitants (invertebrates, fish, sea turtles, algae); dolphins and whales; mangroves and sea grasses; local culture, history, and environment; substance and process of science. Note: This course involves scuba diving. It will be possible to learn to scuba dive during the program or to complete the open-water dives for a scuba course taken before the program. Scuba divers must be certified by a nationally recognized organization. All students must be physically capable and healthy enough for field work, scuba diving, and boat work; able to swim and willing to scuba dive in the ocean and from boats; and have a physician’s certification of adequate health and physical fitness to participate in course activities.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO1550 And BIO1560
Department: Biology
A series of seminars and exercises on basic skills for research, literature review, scientific writing, and communication. Each biology faculty member presents a seminar on his or her own research, illustrating possibilities for senior projects. Students choose a senior project topic and sponsor and prepare a formal research proposal. Required for all junior biology majors before beginning the senior project; generally taken after completion of BIO 3530 and two advanced electives.
Credits: 3
PREREQ: BIO2890 And BIO3530
Department: Biology
A series of seminars and exercises on basic skills for research, literature review, scientific writing, and communication, with a focus on the Biotechnology industry. Presentations on possibilities for Senior Project topics. Students choose a senior project topic and sponsor, and prepare a formal research proposal. Required for Biology majors in the Biotechnology Concentration before beginning the Senior Project; generally taken in the junior year, and after completion of Cell Biology and two advanced electives, including Biotechnology I.
Credits: 3
COREQ: BIO3205
PREREQ: BIO2890 And BIO3530 And BIO3200
Department: Biology
An overview of central concepts and methods in the rapidly growing field of genomics. Topics focus on genome projects, molecular genetics, genetic architecture, sequencing methods, bioinformatics, phylogenetics, gene expression analysis, and epigenomics. Throughout the course, students explore the impact of advances in genomics on human health, public policy, the environment, and biomedical ethics.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Lecture course examining both the humeral and cellular immune systems. Topics include antibodies; cellular immunity; immunogenetics; inflammation and resistance to bacterial and viral infection; immunoprophylaxis, immunodiagnostics, and immunological diseases, including hypersensitivity (allergy); autoimmunity; and immunodeficiency. Students prepare a paper based on current literature in the field.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Structure, function, and regulation of genes at the molecular level. Topics include transcription; RNA processing; involvement of RNA in protein synthesis; DNA replication, mutation, and repair; gene cloning; DNA sequencing; PCR ampliflication; and applications of recombinant DNA technology (including gene therapy). Students write a short research grant proposal on a topic of their choice, incorporating molecular approaches learned in class.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Lecture course covering the techniques of transmission electron microscopy and the principles of cell ultrastructure. Lectures consider the structural organization of the cell and its organelles. Labs include practical instruction in the basic techniques required for the preparation and examination of biological materials. A written exam, project, and report are required.
Credits: 6
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Lab course covering the techniques of transmission electron microscopy and the principles of cell ultrastructure. Lectures consider the structural organization of the cell and its organelles. Labs include practical instruction in the basic techniques required for the preparation and examination of biological materials. A written exam, project, and report are required.
Credits: 0
COREQ: BIO4650
Department: Biology
Theory, evidence, and mechanisms of evolution. Students explore evolutionary principles through lectures, readings, discussions, hands-on activities, and computer simulations. Topics include natural selection and adaptation; population genetics; mutation, recombination; genetic drift; speciation; evolutionary developmental biology; genomic evolution; phylogenetics; human evolution. Students also explore topics at the intersection of evolution, society, and human health, including the emerging field of Darwinian Medicine.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO3530
Department: Biology
Students engage in hands-on experiments to explore evolutionary concepts in real-world contexts. Topics include artificial selection in bacteria, yeast, animals, and plants; evolutionary genomics; genetic variation; mutation; natural selection; genetic drift; computer simulations; and human evolution. Interactive labs emphasize critical thinking, data analysis, and practical applications of evolutionary theory.
Credits: 1.5
Department: Biology
The study of genetic determinants of animal behavior. Each student presents at least one seminar and submits a term paper. Topics include the inheritance of monogenic and polygenic traits; disruptive and stabilizing selection for behavioral traits; ethological and psychological isolation; and assortative mating as it pertains to a variety of animals, including humans.
Credits: 4
PREREQ: BIO3160 And BIO3530
Department: Biology
Preparation and examination of biological and other materials for scanning electron microscopy. Lectures consider theoretical aspects of microscopy and imaging. Interpretation of micrographs is emphasized, and a project and report are required. The lab is required.
Since actual course offerings vary from semester to semester, students should consult the myHeliotropecourse schedule to determine whether a particular course is offered in a given semester.
Information Changes
In preparing the College Catalog, every effort is made to provide pertinent and accurate information. However, information contained in the catalog is subject to change, and Purchase College assumes no liability for catalog errors or omissions. Updates and new academic policies or programs will appear in the college’s information notices and will be noted in the online catalog.
It is the responsibility of each student to ascertain current information (particularly degree and major requirements) through frequent reference to current materials and consultation with the student’s faculty advisor, chair or director, and related offices (e.g., enrollment services, advising center).
Notwithstanding anything contained in the catalog, Purchase College expressly reserves the right, whenever it deems advisable, to change or modify its schedule of tuition and fees; withdraw, cancel, reschedule, or modify any course, program of study, degree, or any requirement or policy in connection with the foregoing; and to change or modify any academic or other policy.
