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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.