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Year Course ID Course
2024-2025 ART 490

Special Topics in Art

Topics vary from year to year. i.e. Relational Aesthetics (Socially Engaged Art), Curatorial Practices, Human Centered Design etc.

Course Credits: 3
NB: Not offered every year. Course may be repeated
2024-2025 ART 491

Special Topics in Art

Topics vary from year to year.

Course Credits: 1
Prerequisite(s): 6 sem hrs of ART or permission of instructor
NB: Not offered every year. Course may be repeated
2024-2025 ART 492

Special Topics in Art

Topics vary from year to year.

Course Credits: 2
Prerequisite(s): 6 sem hrs of ART or permission of instructor
NB: Not offered every year. Course may be repeated
2024-2025 ART 495

Mentoring Tutorial (Honours Project)

Students plan, produce and install a solo exhibition, major paper or major design project, and are mentored through the process by a faculty member. The mentoring can be continued through two or more semesters.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor
2024-2025 BIOL 103

Introduction to Biology I - Ecology and Biodiversity

An introduction to basic concepts and connections in the study of life, with emphasis on ecology and adaptation of representative life forms. The major plant and animal groups are surveyed with emphasis on unifying elements and diversities. This course is designed for non-Science majors only.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None (3-3 0-0)
BIOL196 Lab (0 sem. hr.)
2024-2025 BIOL 104

Introduction to Biology II - The Design of Life

An introduction to the basic relationships governing the existence of all living organisms. The anatomy and physiology at all levels from DNA to organ-systems are studied, looking at energy requirements, inheritance, reproduction, development, and adaptation of representative life forms. This course is designed for non-Science majors only.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None (0-0 3-3)
BIOL197 Lab (0 sem. hr.)
2024-2025 BIOL 113

Principles of Biology I

An introduction to the basic relationships governing the existence of all living organisms, with emphasis on ecology and adaptation of representative life forms. Consideration is given to classification and surveys of the major plant and animal groups with emphasis on unifying elements and diversities.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Biology 11 or 12 or equivalent (3-3 0-0)
BIOL198 Lab (1 sem. hr.)
2024-2025 BIOL 114

Principles of Biology II

An introduction to the basic relationships governing the existence of all living organisms. Consideration is given to the anatomy and physiology at all levels as these relate to the energy requirements, inheritance, reproduction, development, and adaptation of representative life forms.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Biology 11 or 12 equivalent (0-0 3-3)
BIOL199 Lab (1 sem. hr.)
2024-2025 BIOL 200

Biotechnology Practica II

Biotechnology Practica II and III provide general and advanced intern experiences in industrial settings. BIOL 200 (2 sem. hrs.) is a requirement for entry to co-op placements and graduation. BIOL 300 (3 sem. hrs.) is additional intern experience providing exposure to advanced techniques and applications in biotechnology. The skills taught in each practicum vary depending on the industrial setting, but should include some of the following techniques: mammalian tissue culture; monoclonal antibody production including cell fusion; hybridoma screening by ELISA and immunoblotting; fermentation microbiology and the operation of large-scale fermentation systems; insect cell culture and use of Baculovirus expression vectors to produce recombinant proteins; downstream processing and the recovery and purification of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids; freezing, freeze-drying and preservation of microorganisms, animal viruses, cell lines and hybridomas; high throughput screening strategies, diagnostic testing; methods in bioinformatics; and quality control procedures.

Course Credits: 2
Prerequisite(s): None.
Cross-listed: BIOT 200/300
2024-2025 BIOL 212

Biology of Vascular Plants

An exploration of the role of plants as the basis for most ecosystems, and as valuable resources for agriculture, horticulture, forestry, biotechnology, and other areas of human concern. The study of vascular plants includes classification, development, physiology, ecology, and economic uses, with comparison of form, function, and significance. The course involves local field trips and laboratory studies.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 113 (3-3)
NB: Students may take only one of BIOL 212 or BIOL 312 for credit Not offered every year. See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 214

Biology of Non-vascular Plants

An exploration of non-vascular plants and the important niches they occupy, particularly in aquatic or moist environments and in relation to human health. The course covers algae, fungi, lichens, and bryophytes including classification, development, physiology, and ecology. Applied aspects include productivity of freshwater and marine systems, commercial uses, mushroom culture, plant pathology, and environmental and human health. Firsthand experience of the organisms includes local field trips and laboratory studies

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 113 (3-3)
NB: Students may take only one of BIOL 214 or BIOL 314 for credit Not offered every year. See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 216

Plant Environments

The crucial role of plant ecology in shaping major habitats, including those in British Columbia, will be examined. A trip to Salt Spring Island will highlight the threatened Garry oak ecosystem and other features of interest. Field trips throughout the course will highlight the population dynamics and interrelationships of plant communities in natural habitats, agricultural crops and managed forests. Critical assessment of planetary stewardship will form a common theme across various issues in plant ecology.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None.
Cross-listed: GENV 216
2024-2025 BIOL 223

Cell Biology

A study of the molecules and processes that determine cell structure and function, including how this information is derived from the wide range of visual and analytical tools available today. The course describes the chemical nature of cells and the structure and behaviour of cells in the context of tissues.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 113 and BIOL 114 (minimum Grade C required); one of CHEM 103 or 111 with CHEM 198 lab; and one of CHEM 104 or 112 with CHEM 199 lab.
NB: Students are advised to take CHEM 221 (Organic Chemistry) concurrently with BIOL 223
2024-2025 BIOL 226

Introduction to Evolutionary Theory

An introduction to the basic concepts of evolution as an organizing theory in biology. Topics covered include: comparative genomics, sources or variation, natural selection, genetic drift, adaptation, sexual selection, kin selection, speciation and phylogenetics.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 114
2024-2025 BIOL 233

Microbiology for Nurses

A study of pathogenic microorganisms and the control of infectious diseases. Topics include (i) the biology of bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and helminths; (ii) immunity, immunology, and immunization; (iii) sterilization, disinfection, chemotherapeutic agents; and (iv) epidemiology and public health microbiology. This course is only open to nursing students.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 241 and 242.
NB: Students may only take on of BIOL 233 or BIOL 333 for credit.
2024-2025 BIOL 241

Human Anatomy & Physiology I

An introductory course in human anatomy and physiology focusing on the structure and function of the cellular, histological, integumentary, skeleton, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic systems. Special attention will be given to the interaction of these systems in maintenance of homeostasis and adaptations during performance and disease conditions.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None (3-3 0-0)
2024-2025 BIOL 242

Human Anatomy and Physiology II

An introductory course in human anatomy and physiology focusing on the structure and function of the nervous, digestive, renal, endocrine, and reproductive systems in addition to immunity and acid-base balance. Special attention will be given to the interaction of these systems in maintenance of homeostasis and adaptations.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None.
2024-2025 BIOL 262

Marine Biology

A study of the life history and distribution of marine organisms in several major habitat types, including soft sediment and rocky substrate communities. Emphasis is on field and laboratory work in a survey of common local marine plants and animals and their relationships. Includes field work in the Lower Mainland, Gulf Islands, and/or Vancouver Island.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None.
NB: Summer sessions only. Not offered every year. See department chair.
Cross-listed: GENV 262
2024-2025 BIOL 281

General Ecology

A study of the structure and dynamics of ecosystems. Consideration of plant and animal populations in relation to physical, chemical, and biological factors affecting their interaction and productivity. Considerable laboratory time is devoted to the study of local ecosystems, field sampling techniques, and field trips to ecological research areas.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 113 or instructor’s consent. (3-3)
Cross-listed: GENV 281
2024-2025 BIOL 290

Introduction to Biotechnology

This course reviews the role of modern biotechnology in plant, animal, and marine biology, microbiology, agriculture, the pharmaceutical industry, and medicine. The course focuses on underlying technologies in biotechnology, how these technologies are implemented, together with public concerns and government guidelines and legislation.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 113 and 114.
Cross-listed: BIOT 290
2024-2025 BIOL 300

Biotechnology Practica III

Biotechnology Practica II and III provide general and advanced intern experiences in industrial settings. BIOL 200 (2 sem. hrs.) is a requirement for entry to co-op placements and graduation. BIOL 300 (3 sem. hrs.) is additional intern experience providing exposure to advanced techniques and applications in biotechnology. The skills taught in each practicum vary depending on the industrial setting, but should include some of the following techniques: mammalian tissue culture; monoclonal antibody production including cell fusion; hybridoma screening by ELISA and immunoblotting; fermentation microbiology and the operation of large-scale fermentation systems; insect cell culture and use of Baculovirus expression vectors to produce recombinant proteins; downstream processing and the recovery and purification of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids; freezing, freeze-drying and preservation of microorganisms, animal viruses, cell lines and hybridomas; high throughput screening strategies, diagnostic testing; methods in bioinformatics; and quality control procedures.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOT 200/300.
Cross-listed: BIOT 200/300.
2024-2025 BIOL 308

Vertebrate Zoology

A comparative study of the vertebrate classes with special emphasis on the anatomy and physiology of representative forms. The significance of advances in the complexity of chordates is considered, as well as the impact of human activities on vertebrate population dynamics.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year See department chair
2024-2025 BIOL 312

Advanced Biology of Vascular Plants

An exploration of the role of plants as the basis for most ecosystems, and as valuable resources for agriculture, horticulture, forestry, biotechnology, and other areas of human concern. The study of vascular plants includes classification, development, physiology, ecology, and economic uses, with comparison of form, function, and significance. The course involves local field trips and laboratory studies. Recent discoveries in plant biology are highlighted through the completion of a literature review.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 113 (3-3)
NB: Students may only take one of BIOL 212 or BIOL 312 for credit Not offered every year. See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 314

Advanced Biology of NonVascular Plants

An exploration of non-vascular plants and the important niches they occupy, particularly in aquatic or moist environments and in relation to human health. The course covers algae, fungi, lichens, and bryophytes including classification, development, physiology, and ecology. Applied aspects include productivity of freshwater and marine systems, commercial uses, mushroom culture, plant pathology and environmental and human health. Firsthand experience of the organisms includes local field trips and laboratory studies. Recent discoveries in plant biology are highlighted through the completion of a literature review.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 113. (3-3)
NB: Students may only take one of BIOL 214 or BIOL 314 for credit Not offered every year See department chair
2024-2025 BIOL 315

Plant Physiology

An inventory of basic plant mechanisms and plant development. Mechanisms include assimilation, transport, and utilization of water and mineral nutrients and the utilization and distribution of photoassimilates. Plant development includes cell division, tissue culture, meristems, and the role of hormones in plant morphogenesis. Experimental approaches and biotechnology applications of plant molecular biology are stressed.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year See department chair
2024-2025 BIOL 316

Plant Ecology

The crucial role of plant ecology in shaping major habitats, including those in British Columbia, will be examined. A trip to Salt Spring Island will highlight the threatened Garry oak ecosystem and other features of interest. Field trips throughout the course will highlight the population dynamics and interrelationships of plant communities in natural habitats, agricultural crops and managed forests. Critical assessment of planetary stewardship will form a common theme across various issues in plant ecology.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281 or 216, and BIOL 262 or instructor’s consent.
NB: Summer sessions only Includes fieldwork in the Gulf Islands Not offered every year See department chair
Cross-listed: GENV 316
2024-2025 BIOL 318

Tropical Botany

As an exploration of the botanical riches of the tropics - focusing on the plant life of Hawaii - this course traces fundamentals of plant taxonomy, physiology, and ecology in relation to complexities of existence on the most isolated island chain in the world. Issues related to indigenous vegetation, including effects of introduced animals and plants, agriculture, and ethnobotany, are discussed. The course involves one week of lectures at Trinity Western and two weeks of lectures and field work in Hawaii.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281 or 216, and BIOL 262 or instructor’s consent. Recommended: BIOL 312 or 314 or 316.
NB: Summer sessions only. Not offered every year
Cross-listed: GENV 318
2024-2025 BIOL 326

Evolutionary Theory

An in-depth survey of evolution as an organizing theory in biology, with emphasis on the primary scientific literature. Topics covered include comparative genomics, sources of variation, natural selection, genetic drift, adaptation, sexual selection, kin selection, speciation and phylogenetics.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 371 and at least one of BIOL 372 or 386.
NB: Students may only take one of BIOL 226 or BIOL 326 for credit.
2024-2025 BIOL 333

Introduction to Medical Microbiology

A study of pathogenic microorganisms and the control of infectious diseases. Topics include: (i) the biology of bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and helminths; (ii) infectious diseases of temperate and tropical climates; (iii) immunity, immunology, and immunization; (iv) sterilization, disinfection, chemotherapeutic agents; and (v) epidemiology and public health microbiology.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Students may only take one of BIOL 233 or BIOL 333 for credit.
2024-2025 BIOL 334

Basic and Applied Microbiology

An advanced study of topics in basic and applied microbiology. Topics include: (i) the structure, ultrastructure, and biochemical structure of prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and viruses; (ii) microbial biochemistry and physiology; (iii) microbial taxonomy and phylogeny; (iv) microbial ecology and agricultural microbiology; and (v) industrial microbiology and biotechnology.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 336

Immunology

A lecture course covering current topics in immunology, including: the cellular basis of immunity, the molecular genetics of antibody diversity, the major histocompatibility complex, antigen recognition, lymphocyte development, the complement system, hypersensitivity reactions, and immunodeficiency diseases. The course provides an integrated view of the immune system and the immunologic response to disease.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 333. (3-0)
NB: Not offered every year See department chair
2024-2025 BIOL 340

Developmental Biology

This course studies animal development and its underlying causal principles including introductory reproductive biology, embryology, and developmental genetics.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 343

Human Histology

A study of the normal microscopic anatomy of the various tissues and organs of the body with an emphasis on the relationship between structure and function. Special attention is given to the field of human histology with some discussion of the similarities and differences in animals. The laboratory component of the course involves the observation and discussion of representative tissue sections and provides a basic understanding of normal versus abnormal morphology.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 344

Environmental Physiology

A survey of physiological adaptations of animals to different environments including environmental stress. These adaptations are examined at several levels of organization, from the molecular and biochemical to the function of organ systems and behaviour. Includes in-depth examination of both vertebrate and invertebrate examples.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year See department chair
2024-2025 BIOL 345

Vertebrate Physiology

A course on the physiology of the various organ systems of humans and higher vertebrates. The course provides an integrated view of the organization and functioning of the different organ systems of the body and their role in maintaining homeostasis.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 346

Advanced Human Physiology

Providing a deeper insight into mechanisms underlying a broad range of physiological phenomena, this course emphasizes the integration of the homeostatic mechanisms involving the various organ systems.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 345 or instructor’s consent. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 360

Invertebrate Zoology

A survey of the invertebrate phyla with particular reference to their phylogenetic relationships. Laboratories and field trips provide hands-on experience studying both terrestrial and marine invertebrates of the Pacific coastal region.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-3)
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2024-2025 BIOL 362

Marine Ecology

A study of the ecological relationships of marine life in several major habitat types. Emphasis is on productivity, food webs, nutrient cycling, and community ecology. Ecosystem parameters are investigated through field and laboratory studies. Part of coursework takes place in the Lower Mainland, Gulf Islands, and/or Vancouver Island.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281 or 216 and BIOL 262 or instructor’s consent.
NB: Summer sessions only. Not offered every year See department chair
Cross-listed: GENV 362
2024-2025 BIOL 364

Coral Reef Ecology

A field course focusing on the systematics and ecology of tropical coral reef organisms. Plants, animals, and physical factors of a fringing coral reef are examined through snorkeling excursions and laboratory studies. One species is chosen for a detailed research project. Includes field course work in Hawaii.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281 or 216 and BIOL 262 or instructor’s consent. Recommended: BIOL 308 or 360.
NB: Summer sessions only. Not offered every year See department chair
Cross-listed: GENV 364
2024-2025 BIOL 371

Introduction to Genetics

An introduction to the study of heredity. Emphasizes classic genetics of populations and individuals in viruses, bacteria, plants, and animals.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281. (3-4)
2024-2025 BIOL 372

Molecular Genetics

This course considers modern developments and techniques in genetics, especially the basic and applied aspects of recombinant DNA technology.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223. (3-3)
Cross-listed: CHEM 372
2024-2025 BIOL 384

Principles of Biochemistry

This course studies chemical structure, function, and metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. This class is continued as BIOL 386.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 221 and 222. Recommended: BIOL 223. (3-3)
Cross-listed: CHEM 384
2024-2025 BIOL 386

Biosynthesis

This course explores the modern understanding of the biochemical transfer of genetic information: DNA structure and synthesis, transcription and translation. This course also examines the regulatory mechanisms of gene control in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, as well as protein structure and function. The central theme of the course is to illustrate the significance of nucleic acid and protein biochemistry in modern biology.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 221, 222. Recommended: BIOL 223 and 384. (3-0)
Cross-listed: CHEM 386.
2024-2025 BIOL 390

Biology & Christian Theology

This course is designed to untangle some of the actual or perceived dissonance between issues of biological science and Christian theology. Six major topics are addressed: (1) models, analogies, and metaphors in science and Christian theology; (2) scientific and religious investigations of the biosphere; (3) defining human nature; (4) defining non-human nature; (5) caring for the earth; and (6) the biomedical revolution. The common threads among these topics are the tension between Christian faith and the findings of basic and applied biology (biotechnology), and the call to action required in a faith-based view of creation. As well as speaking from their own disciplines and background, the course instructors take part in panel discussions at the end of each of the six units to foster discussion and dialogue on the issues. Student participation is encouraged by group projects that develop and present a position paper on an area that engenders dissonance between scientific and religious worldview perspectives.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281, and advanced standing in biology. (3-0)
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
Cross-listed: BIOT 390
2024-2025 BIOL 400

Directed Studies in Biology

Students are required to produce an outline of the topic to be studied in consultation with the instructor. A course of reading and/ or experimentation is pursued according to the approved outline. Assessment may be via examination and/or a final written report.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 223 or 281 and advanced standing in biology or instructor’s consent.
NB: This course, with the appropriate choice of topics, can be used as a preparation for the senior thesis (BIOL 410).
2024-2025 BIOL 409

Thesis Preparation

Students will be required to choose a topic for their senior thesis (BIOL 409-410/GENV 409- 410) in consultation with an instructor. Selected readings and references pertinent to the topic will be assigned. A final written report will be presented consisting of a detailed thesis proposal and a review of the literature.

Course Credits: 1
Prerequisite(s): Advanced standing in biology or instructor's consent. (1-1; 0-0)
Cross-listed: BIOT 409
2024-2025 BIOL 410

Senior Thesis

Research in a chosen area of biology or environmental studies with a final written report. Presentation of research findings will also be made by the student in a poster session.

Course Credits: 2
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 409. A related directed study in preparation, or instructor's consent. (0-0; 1-2)
Cross-listed: BIOT 410
2024-2025 BIOL 411

Senior Thesis

In this course, students research a chosen area of biology and provide a final written report. Students present research findings in a seminar. This course option allows students with larger projects to gain extra credit.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 409, a related directed study in preparation, or instructor's consent. (0-0; 1-3)
2024-2025 BIOL 423

Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology

A laboratory course emphasizing advanced techniques in cell biology, molecular biology, and developmental genetics. Topics include functional genomics, mobile genetic elements, somatic clonal analysis, molecular cloning, and epifluorescence/ confocal microscopy. This course is designed for students who are interested in a career in the life sciences and who wish to familiarize themselves with a number of applied laboratory techniques.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 372 or 384. (0-4)
NB: BIOL 423 is an appropriate addition to or substitution for BIOL 409, 410.
2024-2025 BIOL 433

The Human Microbiome

This course will focus on the human microbiome and the complex symbiotic relationships, exploring the impacts of those host-microbe interactions on physical and mental health. The course will also examine the current research tools and emerging applications within the field.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 333 or 334. (3-0)