Aerial view of campus with Williamsport, the Susquehanna River and Bald Eagle Mountain as a backdrop

Biology (BIO)

Professor: Newman
Associate Professors: Broussard
Assistant Professors: Andrew (Chair), McClelland, Morrison, O’Donnell, Rieck
Lecturer: Kaunert

  • Majors: Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Cell and Molecular Biology, Ecology
  • Courses required for all majors: 13 (B.A.), 16 (B.S.) (not including zero or 1 credit courses)
  • Math requirement: two courses from CPTR 125, 246, or above and/or MATH 109, 115, 123, 127, 128,129, or any course above 200
  • Non-credit Colloquium: 4 semesters
  • Capstone requirement: Practical Experience, Presentation in Colloquium, and Department Exit Examination
  • Minors: Biology, Environmental Science

The Department of Biology offers four majors that can each be completed as Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degrees. The Department also offers a minor in Biology and contributes to the interdisciplinary minors in Environmental Science and Neuroscience.

Students may not double major in any combination of Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Cell and Molecular Biology, or Ecology.

Major Requirements

The B.A. Degree

The major in biology requires courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. The required courses are below. Declared Biology majors may substitute BIO 106 for BIO 110 and BIO 107 for BIO 111 with written consent of the department chair and ASC approval.

Core courses:

BIO 110 Introduction to Biology I
BIO 111 Introduction to Biology II
BIO 222 Genetics
BIO 224 Ecology
BIO 225 Plant Sciences
BIO 323 Human Physiology
BIO 324 Medical Microbiology
CHEM 122/123 General Chemistry I and Laboratory I
CHEM 124/125 General Chemistry II and Laboratory II

 One course from the following:

CHEM 219 Organic and Biochemistry
CHEM 222/223 Organic Chemistry I and Laboratory I

Two courses from the following:

CPTR 125 Introduction to Computer Science
Any CPTR course numbered 246 or higher
MATH 109 Applied Elementary Calculus
MATH 115 Applied Discrete Mathematics
MATH 123 Introduction to Statistics
MATH 127 Precalculus Mathematics
MATH 128 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
MATH 129 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II
Any MATH course numbered 200 or higher

One additional BIO course numbered 201 or higher.

Biology majors are also required to complete four semesters of BIO 349/449 Colloquium. Enrollment in student teaching and/or other similar off-campus academic experiences will be accepted by the department in lieu of that semester’s colloquium requirement.

The B.S. Degree

To qualify for the B.S. degree, Biology majors must complete the major described above and three additional courses chosen in any combination from the following: BIO 201 or higher (including BIO 400 and/or 470); BIOCH 444, 445; CHEM 224/225 or higher; ENV 445; NEURO 210, 211; PHYS 225 or higher;; or MATH 127, 128, 129, or any MATH course numbered 200 or higher.

Capstone Requirements

In order to graduate, all biology majors must demonstrate to the Department their command of biology by meeting the following three criteria.

Practical Experience: All students must complete at least one of the experiences in the following list: Internship, Practicum, BIO 447, Relevant Summer Experience, Independent Studies, Honors, Medical Laboratory Science Internship, Medical Technology Internship, Teaching Semester, Biology Laboratory Assistant, Biology-related volunteer work. (Summer experiences, Biology-related volunteer work, or working as a lab assistant must be approved by the Department in order to be used to meet this requirement.)

Research & Presentation Component: All junior and senior majors are required to successfully complete Biology Colloquia (BIO 349/449) during all their semesters on campus. During their final year, students will research a biological topic and make an oral presentation at the Biology Colloquium. This will demonstrate information literacy in the biological sciences.

Assessment: All majors are required to pass a Biology Department Exit Exam.

Students may not double major in any combination of Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Cell and Molecular Biology, or Ecology.

Certification in Secondary Education

A Biology major interested in becoming certified at the secondary level to teach Biology and/or General Science should, as early as possible, consult the current Department of Education Teacher Education Handbook and should make their plans known to their advisor and the Chair of the Education Department so the required courses can be scheduled before the Professional Semester. Please check with the Education Department for the most current PA State requirements.

Cooperative Programs

Lycoming College has several affiliations with cooperative programs relevant to majors offered by the Biology department. These programs are described in the Academic Program section of the catalog under Cooperative Programs. Some programs may have accelerated timelines that would preclude a student from being able to fully complete their major. In these instances, students must make an appeal to the Academic Standards Committee, in consultation with their academic advisor, to approve exceptions to the major. Students interested in these programs should contact the program director as soon as possible.

Minor Requirements

A minor in biology consists of two courses from BIO 222, 224, 225, 323, or 324; and two additional BIO courses numbered 200 or higher.

Clean Water Institute

This institute is designed to provide a forum for the natural resource heritage of North Central Pennsylvania, the Susquehanna River and its major tributaries (Pine, Loyalsock, Lycoming, and Muncy Creeks). The institute provides a service not only to Lycoming College students, through coordination of Environmental internships, and independent study/honors projects, but also the community. This may include seminars or workshops on environmental issues as well as monitoring assistance to watershed groups.

000
SEMINAR IN BIOLOGICAL EDUCATION
Each student planning to teach Biology in secondary schools attends a series of seven seminars, conducted prior to student teaching, during the spring semester of the junior year. These seminars are conducted by members of the biology faculty. In addition to pertinent teaching issues, students are also exposed to procedures for laboratory set up and maintenance and safety procedures for students and materials in a laboratory. Special arrangements will be made for non-degree students. Non-credit course.

103 
VIRUSES, PANDEMICS AND SOCIETY 
Human societies faced global pandemics long before recorded history. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of understanding the biological and social impacts of any new pathogen. This course explores how viruses and bacteria infect host species including humans, how they cause disease, how they spread, and how they may be contained and even eradicated. We examine how past pandemics like the black plague, Smallpox, HIV, Ebolavirus, Influenza virus, SARS, and Zika virus changed societies across time and around the world.  Four hours of lecture per week. Fulfills Global Diversity requirement. 

104
A PIECE OF YOUR MIND
Why does music sound good? What causes you to dream? What role does proper nutrition play in the function of your nervous system, and why do some foods make you feel happy? How do common pharmaceuticals affect your brain? How do you make memories and learn new things? This course gives a brief introduction to the science of the human brain. Topics covered include basic brain anatomy and function, how your brain’s sensory systems allow you to appreciate art and music, the science of sleep, the brain’s role in emotional experiences, the strengths and weaknesses of the human brain in decision making, and what the science of learning and memory can teach you about building effective study habits. Four hours of lecture per week. This course does not count towards the biology or neuroscience major.

106
CELLS, GENES, AND SOCIETY
Investigates the roles that cellular phenomena, genes, and biotechnology play in everyday life. The primary goal of this course is to improve recognition and understanding of the implications of biology in health care, agriculture, law, bioethics, and business. Credit may not be earned for both BIO 106 and 110. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour laboratory per week.

107
HUMAN BIOLOGY
A brief survey of human anatomy and physiology, which includes study of the complementary nature of form and function, as well as study of the levels of biological organization within the body. Provides the background to read, comprehend, and appreciate current articles on this subject in the popular press. Students learn the names, structure, and general functions of the major organs of the body. Animal dissection is optional. Credit may not be earned for both BIO 107 and 111.  Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week.

108
PUBLIC HEALTH
The health of human populations around the world has improved dramatically over the past 150 years due to improvements in nutrition, water treatment and sanitation, worker and transportation safety, infectious disease prevention and treatment, as well as other medical innovations, including systems for the delivery medical care. This course explores the science behind global public health successes and current challenges through case studies and evaluation of proposed public health policies.  Four hours of lecture per week.

109 
NATURAL HISTORY OF DINOSAURS
Explores the origin, evolution, and extinction of dinosaurs with emphasis on paleobiology and paleoecology of the Mesozoic Era. This course covers fundamental paleontological and evolutionary principles, dinosaur anatomy and behavior, physiology, dinosaur-bird relationships, diversity, and the history of dinosaur paleontology. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week.

110
INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGY I
An introduction to the study of biology designed for students planning to major in the sciences. Major topics include a survey of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, development, and evolution. Credit may not be earned for both BIO 106 and 110. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week.

111
INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGY II
An introduction to the study of biology designed for students planning to major in the sciences. Major topics include a survey of eukaryotic diversity, mammalian anatomy and physiology, animal behavior, ecology, and evolution. Prior completion of BIO 110 is recommended, but not required. Credit may not be earned for both BIO 107 and 111.  Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week.

115 
MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY 
An introduction to the language of medicine. This course focuses on the structure and meaning of medical terms. Students learn to analyze and understand medical terminology related to human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and treatment. Emphasis is placed on word roots, prefixes, suffixes, and proper pronunciation and usage. This course is designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare and health related fields and provide a strong foundation for effective communication in clinical, academic, and professional settings. 2 credits.  

116 
FIRST AID AND CPR 
Provides hands-on introduction to the skills needed to respond effectively to common medical emergencies. Topics include basic first aid, adult and pediatric CPR, the proper use of AEDs, and injury prevention. Scenario-based simulations provide students the opportunity to practice and assess their skills. Students take the certification exams for First Aid and CPR through nationally recognized organizations, such as the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. This course is open to all students but is designed for students pursuing careers in healthcare, education, or exercise science related fields. 2 credits. 

200
THE 4TH AND 5TH KINGDOMS
While food, oxygen, and medicines are all necessary for human existence, the importance of plants and fungi are often ignored by our society. Plants and fungi play an essential role in our planet’s ecology and are central in human cultural evolution. Covers the ways plants and fungi work, how humans have used plant and fungal products for their benefit and pleasure throughout history, and how different phytochemicals can influence human health. Also examines human impacts on plant and fungal biodiversity, how we have altered the environment in our quest for food and the perfect American lawn, and the impacts of genetic engineering. Four hours of lecture and one two-hour laboratory per week. This course does not count toward the biology major.

201
INTRODUCTION TO BIRDWATCHING AND ORNITHOLOGY
Birds are fascinating and beautiful creatures that have evolved to survive on almost every part of our earth. They are the only direct living descendants of dinosaurs. In this course, students learn to observe, identify and describe birds in their natural habitats. Students examine bird anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution, as well as issues in bird conservation, including bird migration and human impacts on bird habitat. Mixed lecture, laboratory, and fieldwork. May term course only.

222
GENETICS
A general consideration of the principles governing inheritance, including the study of heredity; genes and their expression, regulation, and evolution; the structure, replication, and variation of DNA; technology associated with modern genetic analyses. This class offers an intensive overview of the foundations and modern advances in genetics as well as an introduction to modern genetic laboratory techniques. Four hours of lecture and one two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111.

224
ECOLOGY
The study of the principles of ecology with emphasis on how the biotic and abiotic components of the environment interact to determine the distribution of plant and animal populations and the structure of communities. Course material covers additional topics in population genetics, landscape ecology, and biological conservation. Included are field studies of local habitats as well as laboratory experimentation. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111, or ENV 220.  Alternate years.

225
PLANT SCIENCES
A survey of the structure, development, function, ecology, taxonomic divisions, and human uses of plants. The course includes four general topic areas: form, including plant cellular structure, plant morphology and plant anatomy; function, concentrating on photosynthesis and plant nutrition; distinctions between different plant divisions and plant identification techniques; and human uses of plants and historical implications of several different plants and fungi. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111.  Alternate years.

230
NUTRITION: METABOLISM AND HEALTH 
A study of protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolic pathways in the human body, as well as the integrated function of vitamins and minerals. Other topics may include nutrient absorption, how a deficiency or excess of these macro- and micronutrients influences health, how metabolism is altered in various disease states, and the impact of alcohol. Four hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: BIO 107 or 111; CHEM 122/123; or consent of instructor.

322
NEUROGENETICS
An examination of the role that genetics plays in the development, function, and health of the nervous system. Topics include the role of classical genetics in elucidating molecular mechanisms of nervous system function and human neurological diseases. Includes recent advances in genomics and large-scale population studies that have facilitated a rapidly-increasing understanding of genetic brain abnormalities. The laboratory portion of the course will illustrate both classical and cutting-edge genetic analyses of behavior in multiple experimental systems. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Bio 110 and 111, or consent of instructor; Bio 222 is also recommended.

323
HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY
The mechanisms and functions of systems, including the autonomic, endocrine, digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, nervous, and reproductive systems. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111.

324 
MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY 
An examination of medically important microbes including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites and their interactions with human hosts. The course includes the fundamentals of microbiology such as microbial cell biology, physiology, genomics, and pathogenesis as well as current issues in public health, such as emerging infectious diseases and evolution of antibiotic-resistance. The laboratory component of the course provides hands-on experience in fundamental microbiological techniques as well as the use of various diagnostic tools to detect, identify, and characterize infectious agents. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory period per week. Prerequisite: BIO 110 and 111.  

325 
MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 
An examination of the interaction of microorganisms with biotic and abiotic components of the environment. Topics addressed include microbial diversity and community structure, symbiosis, biogeochemical cycles, bioremediation, wastewater treatment and disinfection, and how microbes adapt to and affect different environments on the earth. Laboratory experiments include fundamental microbiology techniques as well as environmental sampling, metagenomic microbiome analysis, and biochemical analyses relevant to biogeochemical cycles. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory period per week.  Prerequisite: BIO 110 and 111.  

328
AQUATIC BIOLOGY
A field-oriented course focused on freshwater ecosystems. Course material examines the physical and chemical characteristics of water that influence aquatic habitats and organisms. Several local field trips and lab activities focus on the collection and identification of aquatic macroinvertebrates in addition to the taxonomic study of fish and a variety of field methods for characterizing aquatic habitats. Alternate years. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111. 

329
TROPICAL MARINE BIOLOGY
A field-oriented course where students study the creatures of the fringing reefs, barrier reefs, lagoons, turtlegrass beds, and mangrove swamps at a tropical marine laboratory. Studies include survey of plankton, invertebrates, and fish as well as the physical and chemical characteristics that influence their distribution. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111. Alternate May terms.

333
MEDICINAL AND POISONOUS PLANTS
An overview of plants, fungi and bacteria that produce physiologically active substances important to humans and animals because of their toxic and/or medicinal qualities. Major themes include types of phytochemicals and their generalized actions, and a survey of organisms known to make metabolically active chemicals. The organismal survey includes toxicity symptoms and known mechanisms of how toxic/medicinal chemicals interfere with physiological functions of organisms consuming them. The course utilizes a problem-solving approach. Laboratory topics include plant classification and identification of common medicinal or poisonous plants. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111 or consent of instructor.

334
INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
Comparative study of the invertebrate phyla with emphasis on phylogeny, physiology,
morphology, and ecology. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111. Alternate years.

336
VERTEBRATE BIOLOGY
A biological survey of vertebrates including aspects of morphology, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution. Issues of conservation and biodiversity are also addressed. Laboratories will focus on the field biology of Pennsylvania vertebrates and on dissections to emphasize comparative anatomy. Four hours of lecture and one four-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111. Alternate years.

338
HUMAN ANATOMY
A comprehensive overview of the structural, functional, and developmental anatomy of the human body achieved through lectures and dissection studies. Particular consideration is given to the bony structures, musculature, neuroanatomy, and the relationships of the various structures to one another. Students learn the general form, location, function, and relationships of these features and acquire a vocabulary essential for future studies. This course provides a detailed knowledge of the body systems and integrates a basic understanding of embryology and surface anatomy with the study of the human cadaver. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111.

 

342
ANIMAL BEHAVIOR
A study of causation, function, evolution, and biological significance of animal behaviors in their normal environment and social contexts. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111. Alternate years.

343
COMPARATIVE BIOMECHANICS
A comparative study of how biological organisms deal with the physical challenges of their internal and external environment. Using humans, other animals, and plants as examples, the course addresses biological materials and their properties, movements including walking, running, jumping, swimming, and flying, as well as dynamic behaviors such as feeding and breathing. Labs use high-speed videography and digital image analysis to assess animal movement and develop skills complementary to animal behavior, bio-inspired design, and kinesiology. Math and physics are key components of this course. Prerequisite: BIO 110 and 111; and math level 3 or higher or completion of MATH 100; or consent of instructor. Alternate years.  

346
VIROLOGY
An introduction to the study of viruses. The course covers virus structure and replication, diseases caused by viruses, modern treatments of viral infections, and viral vaccines produced by recombinant DNA and other technologies. Also includes a description of how viruses are used as tools for genetic engineering and for studying cellular processes like signal transduction, regulation of expression, and oncogenesis (cancer). Four hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111 or consent of instructor. Alternate years. 

347
IMMUNOLOGY
An introduction to how pathogens cause disease and how host organisms defend against infectious and autoimmune diseases. Relationships between antigens, antibodies, and T cells are explored. Other topics include immediate and delayed hypersensitivities, autoimmune disease mechanisms, immunohaematology, hybridoma technology, the chemistry and function of complement, and organ transplantation and prevention of rejection by manipulating the immune system. Laboratory experiments include agglutination, immunoprecipitations, ELISA assays, immunofluorescence, microscopy, Western blotting. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111. Alternate years.

400
BIOLOGY PRACTICUM
A work-oriented experience for junior or senior biology majors jointly sponsored by the Department and a public or private agency. The practicum is designed to integrate classroom theory with field or laboratory practice. In addition to attendance at a weekly seminar, students spend 10-12 hours per week at the sponsoring agency. May be repeated once for credit with consent of instructor when topics are different.

432
GENOME ANALYSIS
An examination of the genomes of humans, other animals, plants, and microbes to identify characteristics unique to specific groups as well as genomic features shared by multiple groups. Emphasizes the application of this information in the fields of medicine, environmental biology, and evolution. The laboratory integrates experiments at the lab bench with a substantial bioinformatics component. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, 111, and 222. Alternate years.

435
CELL BIOLOGY
An intensive study of the cell as the basic unit of life. Topics include origins of cellular life, biochemistry of the cell, enzymatic reactions, cellular membranes, intracellular communication, the cell cycle, the cytoskeleton and cell motility, protein sorting, distribution, and secretion. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 111 and one semester of organic chemistry. Alternate years.

436
EVOLUTION
A study of the mechanics of evolutionary change and its role within populations. Topics typically covered include macroevolution, microevolution, natural selection, adaptation, neutral theory, population genetics, speciation, and extinction. Interactive lectures, readings from the primary literature, laboratory and field investigations, and simulation exercises will be used to actively explore the principles of evolutionary change and its consequences. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, 111, or consent of instructor. Alternate years.

437
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
An in-depth analysis of fundamental cellular information flow processes with particular emphasis on how these processes have been applied in the laboratory, resulting in technologies such as DNA cloning and sequencing, the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), genetic testing, gene therapy, synthetic biology, and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing.  Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, 111, and 222. Alternate years.

446 
PLANT PHYSIOLOGICAL ECOLOGY
A study of plant resource acquisition in the face of competing neighbors and the quickly changing global environment. The course focuses on how differences in the environment affect plant water use, carbon dioxide acquisition, light capture, and nutrient uptake. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, 111, and 225. Alternate years.

447
CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY RESEARCH METHODS
This course focuses on the culture and methods of biology research. Students meet twice per week to learn experimental design, good record keeping, ordering/preparation of materials, equipment maintenance, and analyses of primary biology literature. Each student designs and conducts a lab project that can be supervised by any member of the biology faculty. Each student prepares a research proposal, an oral presentation, poster presentation, and a research journal-style paper. Two one-hour seminars and six to eight hours of laboratory work per week. Prerequisites: BIO 110, 111, at least two other biology courses, and consent of instructor. May be repeated once for credit with consent of instructor.

349, 449
BIOLOGY COLLOQUIUM
This course offers the student a chance to become familiar with research in the biological sciences using techniques such as meeting and talking with active researchers, reading and critically analyzing the current literature, and discussing the ideas and methods shaping biology. Biology majors with junior and senior standing are required to complete colloquium during all semesters on campus except for semesters when student teaching or participating in an equivalent off-campus academic experience such as Study Abroad. One hour per week. Prerequisite: Biology majors with junior or senior class standing. Pass/Fail. Non-credit course.

470-479
INTERNSHIP
Recent internships have taken place at the Department of Environmental Protection, waste water treatment facilities, nursing homes, and Susquehanna Health System.

N80-N89
INDEPENDENT STUDY
Departmental studies are experimentally oriented and may entail either lab or field work.

490-491
INDEPENDENT STUDY FOR DEPARTMENTAL HONORS
Examples of recent honors projects have involved stream analysis, mouse developmental neuroscience studies, analysis of muscle cell gene expression, discovery of novel bacterial species, and vertebrate paleontology.

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

The B.A. Degree

The B.A. degree in Biomedical Sciences requires 13 courses from a combination of biology, chemistry, and mathematics, with elective courses from a variety of disciplines. This major provides a rigorous grounding in biomedical sciences for students planning careers in allied health fields such as nursing, genetic counseling, occupational therapy, or who wish to combine their biomedical training with other areas of study, such as psychology, education, public health, or business. This major prepares students for careers in the healthcare industry, education, or other technical disciplines related to healthcare. Different healthcare disciplines require specific training and prerequisite coursework, so the courses chosen as electives in this major should be discussed with your major and pre-health advisor(s).

Major Requirements

BIO 110 Introduction to Biology I
BIO 111 Introduction to Biology II
BIO 222 Genetics
BIO 323 Human Physiology
BIO 338 Human Anatomy
CHEM 122/123 General Chemistry I and Laboratory
CHEM 124/125 General Chemistry II and Laboratory
MATH 123 Statistics 

One of the following:

CHEM 222/223 Organic Chemistry I and Laboratory
CHEM 219 Organic and Biochemistry

Four courses from at least two different prefixes, at least two of which must be numbered 300 or higher, chosen from the following:

ANTH 101 Ancient Bodies, Modern Lives
BIO 108 Public Health
BIO 322 Neurogenetics
BIO 324 Medical Microbiology
BIO 333 Medicinal and Poisonous Plants
BIO 336 Vertebrate Biology
BIO 342 Animal Behavior
BIO 343 Biomechanics
BIO 347 Immunology
BIO 432 Genome Analysis
BIO 435 Cell Biology
BIO 437 Molecular Biology
BIOCH 444 Biochemistry I
BIOCH 445 Biochemistry II
CHEM 224/225 Organic Chemistry II and Laboratory
CHEM 232 Quantitative Chemical Analysis
CHEM 443 Instrumental Analysis
MATH 128 Calculus I
NEURO 210 Introduction to Neuroscience I
NEURO 211 Introduction to Neuroscience II
PHIL 219 Philosophical Issues in Health Care
PHYS 225 Fundamentals of Physics I
PSY 206 Brain and Behavior
PSY 217 Lifespan Development
PSY 239 Applied Behavioral Analysis
PSY 242 Drugs Behavior and Society
PSY 315 Clinical Neuroscience
PSY 342 Health Psychology
SOC 210 Sociology of Mental Health and Illness
SOC 212 Contagion
SOC 228 Aging and Society
SOC 310 Sociology of Health, Illness, and Healthcare

The B.S. Degree

The B.S. degree in biomedical sciences requires 16 courses from a combination of biology, biochemistry, chemistry, mathematics, and physics with elective courses from a variety of disciplines. This major is more intensive than the B.A., requires 16 courses, and is intended to prepare students for careers at the highest levels of healthcare and biomedical research, including medical school, physician assistant, physical therapy, veterinary medicine, Doctor of Pharmacy, and Ph.D. level graduate biomedical research programs. Different healthcare disciplines require specific levels of training and prerequisite coursework, so the courses you choose as electives in this major should be chosen in consultation with your major and pre-health advisor(s).

Major Requirements

BIO 110 Introduction to Biology I
BIO 111 Introduction to Biology II
BIO 222 Genetics
BIO 323 Human Physiology
BIO 324 Medical Microbiology
BIO 338 Human Anatomy
BIO 347 Immunology
BIOCH 444 Biochemistry I
CHEM 122/123 General Chemistry I and Laboratory
CHEM 124/125 General Chemistry II and Laboratory
CHEM 222/223 Organic Chemistry I and Laboratory
CHEM 224/225 Organic Chemistry II and Laboratory
MATH 128 Calculus I
PHYS 225 Fundamentals of Physics I

Two courses from the following:

ANTH 101 Ancient Bodies, Modern Lives
BIO 108 Public Health
BIO 322 Neurogenetics
BIO 333 Medicinal and Poisonous Plants
BIO 336 Vertebrate Biology
BIO 342 Animal Behavior
BIO 343 Biomechanics
BIO 432 Genome Analysis
BIO 435 Cell Biology
BIO 437 Molecular Biology
BIOCH 445 Biochemistry II
CHEM 232 Quantitative Chemical Analysis
CHEM 443 Instrumental Analysis
MATH 123 Statistics
MATH 129 Calculus II
NEURO 210 Introduction to Neuroscience I
NEURO 211 Introduction to Neuroscience II
PHIL 219 Philosophical Issues in Health Care
PHYS 226 Fundamentals of Physics II
PSY 206 Brain and Behavior
PSY 217 Lifespan Development
PSY 239 Applied Behavioral Analysis
PSY 242 Drugs Behavior and Society
PSY 315 Clinical Neuroscience
PSY 342 Health Psychology
SOC 210 Sociology of Mental Health and Illness
SOC 212 Contagion
SOC 228 Aging and Society
SOC 310 Sociology of Health, Illness, and Healthcare

Biomedical Sciences majors for both the B.A. and B.S. degrees are also required to successfully complete four semesters of BIO 349/449 (non-credit colloquium) and complete a capstone experience described below.

Capstone Requirements

Biomedical Sciences majors must choose one of the options below and deliver a presentation of their experience in BIO colloquium. Research or shadowing experiences must have a clear focus on biomedical research or practice as determined by the program coordinator(s). Finally, all majors are required to pass the Biology Department Exit Exam.

  • BIO 447 Cell and Molecular Biology Research Methods
  • CHEM/BIOCH 449 Information, Communication, and Ethics
  • Lycoming College Independent Study or Honors Project
  • Clinical internship or research experience (includes NSF REU or NIH SIP programs or their equivalents)
  • Medical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology Internship
  • Significant clinical shadowing experience(s) with documentation of at least 100 hours.

Students may not double major in any combination of Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Cell and Molecular Biology, or Ecology.

Cooperative Programs

Lycoming College has several affiliations with cooperative programs relevant to Biomedical Sciences majors. These programs are described in the Academic Program section of the catalog under Cooperative Programs. Some programs may have accelerated timelines that would preclude a student from being able to fully complete the Biomedical Sciences major. In these instances, students must make an appeal to the Academic Standards Committee, in consultation with their academic advisor, to approve exceptions to the major. Students interested in these programs should contact the program director as soon as possible.

CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Major Requirements

The B.A. Degree

The major in Cell and Molecular Biology requires courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. The required courses are below. Declared Cell and Molecular Biology majors may substitute BIO 106 for BIO 110 and BIO 107 for BIO 111 with written consent of the department chair and ASC approval.

Core courses:
BIO 110 Introduction to Biology I
BIO 111 Introduction to Biology II
BIO 222 Genetics
BIO 435 Cell Biology
CHEM 122/123 General Chemistry I and Laboratory I
CHEM 124/125 General Chemistry II and Laboratory II

One course from the following:
BIO 432 Genome Analysis
BIO 437 Molecular Biology

One course from the following:
CHEM 219 Organic and Biochemistry
CHEM 222/223 Organic Chemistry I and Laboratory I

Two courses from the following:
CPTR 125 Introduction to Computer Science
Any CPTR course numbered 246 or higher
MATH 109 Applied Elementary Calculus
MATH 115 Applied Discrete Mathematics
MATH 123 Introduction to Statistics
MATH 127 Precalculus Mathematics
MATH 128 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
MATH 129 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II
Any MATH course numbered 200 or higher

One course from the following:
BIO 322 Neurogenetics
BIO 347 Immunology
BIO 432 Genome Analysis
BIO 437 Molecular Biology
BIO 447 Cell & Molecular Biology Research Methods
BIOCH 444 Biochemistry I
BIOCH 445 Biochemistry II
NEURO 210 Introduction to Neuroscience I

One course from the following:
BIO 201 Introduction to Birdwatching and Ornithology
BIO 224 Ecology
BIO 325 Microbial Ecology
BIO 328 Aquatic Biology
BIO 329 Tropical Marine Biology
BIO 333 Medicinal & Poisonous Plants
BIO 342 Animal Behavior
BIO 343 Comparative Biomechanics
BIO 436 Evolution
BIO 446 Plant Physiological Ecology
ENV 215 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

One course from the following:
BIO 225 Plant Science
BIO 230 Nutrition: Metabolism & Health
BIO 323 Human Physiology
BIO 324 Medical Microbiology
BIO 334 Invertebrate Zoology
BIO 336 Vertebrate Biology
BIO 338 Human Anatomy
BIO 346 Virology
NEURO 211 Introduction to Neuroscience II

Cell and Molecular Biology majors are required to complete four semesters of BIO 349/449 Colloquium. Enrollment in student teaching and/or other similar off-campus academic experiences will be accepted by the department in lieu of that semester’s colloquium requirement.

The B.S. Degree

To qualify for the B.S. degree, Cell and Molecular Biology majors must complete the major described above and three additional courses chosen in any combination from the following: BIO 222 or higher; BIOCH 444, 445; CHEM 224/225 or higher; ENV 445; NEURO 210, 211; PHYS 225 or higher; or MATH 127, 128, 129, or any MATH course numbered 200 or higher.

Capstone Requirements

In order to graduate, all Cell and Molecular Biology majors must demonstrate to the Biology Department their command of biology by meeting the following three criteria.

  1. Practical Experience: All students must complete at least one of the experiences in the following list: Internship, Practicum, BIO 447, Relevant Summer Experience, Independent Studies, Honors, Medical Laboratory Science Internship, Medical Technology Internship, Teaching Semester, Biology Laboratory Assistant, Biology-related volunteer work. (Summer experiences, Biology-related volunteer work, or working as a lab assistant must be approved by the Department in order to be used to meet this requirement.)
  2. Research & Presentation Component: All junior and senior majors are required to successfully complete Biology Colloquia (BIO 349/449) during all their semesters on campus. During their final year, students will research a biological topic and make an oral presentation at the Biology Colloquium. This will demonstrate information literacy in cell and molecular biology.
  3. Assessment: All majors are required to pass a Biology Department Exit Exam.

Students may not double major in any combination of Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Cell and Molecular Biology, or Ecology.

ECOLOGY

Major Requirements

The B.A. Degree

The major in Ecology requires courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. The required courses are below. Declared Ecology majors may substitute BIO 106 for BIO 110 and BIO 107 for BIO 111 with written consent of the department chair and ASC approval.

Core courses:
BIO 110 Introduction to Biology I
BIO 111 Introduction to Biology II
BIO 224 Ecology
BIO 225 Plant Sciences
CHEM 122/123 General Chemistry I and Laboratory I
CHEM 124/125 General Chemistry II and Laboratory II

One course from the following:
BIO 334 Invertebrate Zoology
BIO 336 Vertebrate Biology

One course from the following:
CHEM 219 Organic and Biochemistry
CHEM 222/223 Organic Chemistry I and Laboratory I

Two courses from the following:
CPTR 125 Introduction to Computer Science
Any CPTR course numbered 246 or higher
MATH 109 Applied Elementary Calculus
MATH 115 Applied Discrete Mathematics
MATH 123 Introduction to Statistics
MATH 127 Precalculus Mathematics
MATH 128 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
MATH 129 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II
Any MATH course numbered 200 or higher

One course from the following:
BIO 222 Genetics
BIO 322 Neurogenetics
BIO 347 Immunology
BIO 432 Genome Analysis
BIO 435 Cell Biology
BIO 437 Molecular Biology
BIO 447 Cell & Molecular Biology Research Methods
BIOCH 444 Biochemistry I
BIOCH 445 Biochemistry II
NEURO 210 Introduction to Neuroscience I

Two courses from the following:
BIO 201 Introduction to Birdwatching and Ornithology
BIO 325 Microbial Ecology
BIO 328 Aquatic Biology
BIO 329 Tropical Marine Biology
BIO 333 Medicinal & Poisonous Plants
BIO 342 Animal Behavior
BIO 343 Comparative Biomechanics
BIO 436 Evolution
BIO 446 Plant Physiological Ecology
ENV 215 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Ecology majors are required to complete four semesters of BIO 349/449 Colloquium. Enrollment in student teaching and/or other similar off-campus academic experiences will be accepted by the department in lieu of that semester’s colloquium requirement.

The B.S. Degree

To qualify for the B.S. degree, Ecology majors must complete the major described above and pass three additional courses chosen in any combination from the following: BIO 201 or higher; BIOCH 444, 445; CHEM 224/225 or higher; ENV 445; NEURO 210, 211; PHYS 225 or higher; or MATH 127, 128, 129, or any MATH course numbered 200 or higher.

Capstone Requirements

In order to graduate, all Ecology majors must demonstrate to the Biology Department their command of biology by meeting the following three criteria.

  1. Practical Experience: All students must complete at least one of the experiences in the following list: Internship, Practicum, BIO 447, Relevant Summer Experience, Independent Studies, Honors, Teaching Semester, Biology Laboratory Assistant, Biology-related volunteer work. (Summer experiences, Biology-related volunteer work, or working as a lab assistant must be approved by the Department in order to be used to meet this requirement.)
  2. Research & Presentation Component: All junior and senior majors are required to successfully complete Biology Colloquia (BIO 349/449) during all their semesters on campus. During their final year, students will research a biological topic and make an oral presentation at the Biology Colloquium. This will demonstrate information literacy in ecology.
  3. Assessment: All majors are required to pass a Biology Department Exit Exam.

Students may not double major in any combination of Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Cell and Molecular Biology, or Ecology.