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

Immersive and field-based exploration of the ecology of the rich terrestrial and marine ecosystems of Haida Gwaii. Emphasis is placed on understanding the archipelago’s unique biodiversity, complex food webs, and nutrient cycling (from the alpine zone to the seas below), as well as the integration of Indigenous knowledge and Haida perspectives on stewardship and relational ecology. Fieldwork takes place on Haida Gwaii.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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