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Biology Program

Dr. Lillian M. Fugler-Domenico
Program Chairperson
Henderson Hall
First Floor
Room 115

Line
Phone: (973) 290-4161
Email: ldomenico@cse.edu


Biology

Overview & Mission

The Biology Program provides a rigorous and solid foundation to the principles of all important areas of modern biology.   In the training of a biology major, emphasis is placed on  critical thinking and investigative skills.  The program also provides ancillary courses for students majoring in biochemistry, and foods and nutrition. It also offers courses for non-science majors in an effort to increase the science literacy of all students and to provide a foundation for extending their understanding of science in daily life. The College of Saint Elizabeth is a member of Beta Beta Beta, the national biological honor society.

Students fulfilling the requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree in biology are prepared for professional or graduate school. Students may also choose a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology which will prepare them in science related careers, outside of biology, such as business, health services, medical law and ethics, public health, science journalism, and science/health reporting.

Students can also obtain a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science by completing three years of course work in the Biology department of the College of Saint Elizabeth followed by 15 months at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) and its affiliated laboratory facilities. Options at UMDNJ include medical technology or cytotechnology. Following completion of the three years plus 15 months, a student will obtain a joint degree from the two institutions. A complete description of the programs at UMDNJ can be found at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/programs/cls/.

The College of Saint Elizabeth and Seton Hall University have developed a 3+3 program for qualified students interested in pursuing a career as a physician assistant. Students attend the College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE) for three years and complete their required pre-requisite science and math courses as well as the requirements in general education. Following the successful completion of the requirements at CSE, a student then attends Seton Hall University (SHU) for three years to complete their training as a physician assistant. A student receives her B.S. in Biology after completing the first year of the program at SHU and her M.S. in Physician Assistant at the completion of the program. A complete description of the PA program at SHU can be found at http://www.shu.edu/academics/gradmeded/ms-physician-assistant/.

The College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE) and the New York College of Podiatric Medicine (NYCPM) have developed a 3+4 program for qualified students. Students attend the College of Saint Elizabeth for three years and complete their required pre-requisite science and math courses as well as general education course requirements. Following the successful completion of all course requirements at CSE, a student will then attend the New York College of Podiatric Medicine for four years and complete training in podiatric medicine. A student receives her B.S. in Biology after completing the first year of the program at NYCPM and her D.P.M. at the completion of the program. A complete description of the New York College of Podiatric Medicine program can be found at http://www.nycpm.edu/.

The College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE) and Saint Joseph College, School of Pharmacy have developed a joint program for qualified students interested in pursuing a B.S./Pharm.D degree. Students attend the College of Saint Elizabeth for three years and complete their required pre-requisite science and math courses as well as general education course requirements. Following the successful completion of required biology and general education courses at CSE, a student will then attend Saint Joseph College, School of Pharmacy for three years and complete training in pharmacy. A student receives her B.S. in Biology after completing the first year of the program at Saint Joseph College and her Pharm.D at the completion of the program at Saint Joseph College, School of Pharmacy. A complete description of the Pharm.D program at Saint Joseph School of Pharmacy can be found at http://www.sjc.edu/academics/schools/school-of-pharmacy/

American University of Antigua College of Medicine will offer admission to the educational program leading to the Doctor of Medicine degree to graduates (B.S. in biology) of the College of Saint Elizabeth. The College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE) and the American University of Antigua College of Medicine (AUA) have developed a B.S./M.D. program for qualified students. Students attend the College of Saint Elizabeth for four years and complete their B.S. in Biology at CSE. Following the successful completion of a B.S. in Biology at CSE, the student will then attend AUA for four years and complete training in medicine. A student receives her M.D. at the completion of the program at AUA. A complete description of AUA medical program can be found at http://www.auamed.org/.

Compatible with the Mission and Values of the College of Saint Elizabeth, the mission of the Biology Program is to provide students with a rigorous and comprehensive introduction to the principles in biology. Our program emphasizes the application of the scientific process and practical skills necessary to be successful in attaining different career choices, and to be able to communicate the impact and significance of biology to society. The Biology Programs goal is to create a teaching and learning environment which:

    • provides students the breadth of knowledge in the biology discipline and provides students with investigative skills
    • encourages intellectual curiosity and promotes critical thinking
    • teaches and fosters ethical behavior and professional integrity
    • prepares students for admission into professional and graduate degree programs as well as the ability to be competitive in the science industry market and in science related careers.
    • prepares students to be informed and to communicate the major issues at the forefront of the biology discipline


Student Outcomes

Completion of biology coursework and the capstone experience students in the B.A./B.S. biology degree program will demonstrate their competence in the major by being able to:

    • demonstrate knowledge of key biological principles in the general and sub-branches of the biology discipline*
    • demonstrate how the scientific process is applied
    • access and effectively utilize current biological literature and communicate effectively in a variety of methods, including written papers, as well as oral presentations. Students will also be proficient in the use of modern technologies which facilitate communication (B.A./B.S. program)
    • demonstrate the integration of biology and the impact of science and their roles as biologists in society (B.A./B.S. program)

 

* Capstone Experience: an exam will be given in two parts on two separate dates. The first day of the exam will include objective questions that consists of multiple choice questions covering Fundamentals of Biology I and II, Microbiology and Cell Biology. In addition a separate exam section will cover basic solution calculations. The second day will consist of essay questions in upper level elective courses specific to the B.A. program and B.S. program. 


Graduates

Students who have graduated from the Biology Program have followed numerous career paths.  Recent graduates have been accepted and/or entered professional schools in veterinary medicine at Oklahoma State Veterinary School and Ross University Veterinary School. 

Students have been accepted in medical schools such as Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and  American University of Antigua College of Medicine (AUA).  Other students have entered Ph.D. programs in various areas of science and Physician Assistant programs. Recent graduates are attending programs at UMDNJ Medical School, and Seton Hall University. 

Other graduates of the program have chosen other career paths.  For example, careers in pharmaceutical research, state public health/environmental and  clinical laboratories, biostatistical analysis, documentation management  and privately owned pet stores. 

Biology Program

Undergraduate Faculty Courses Internships Programs

Course Listing

Course level: 100 | 200 | 300 | 400

BIO-101

Biology in Society*

Credit Hours: 3

A course designed for the non-science major. This course will include lectures on scientific topics such as basic genetics, human disease, current medical topics in the news and environmental issues. Oral presentations and class discussions will also be integrated into this course. Satisfies Cluster 3 General Education requirement.
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SHUPA-101

Seton Hall Un Physicians Asst. Program

Credit Hours: 0

A collaborative program leading to a Bachelor in Science in Biology from the College of Saint Elizabeth/Master of Science in Physician Assistant from Seton Hall University. Physician assistants are health care providers that carry out many of the same services and have many of the same responsibilities as the medical doctors for whom they work. Physician assistants can specialize in any area of medicine and are found in settings ranging from pediatrics, surgery, primary health practices, and research. They work independently with their patients and make medical decisions based on their findings. An increasing number of medical practices are now comprised of medical doctors and physician assistants working side by side to provide quality health care for their patients. The College of Saint Elizabeth and Seton Hall University have developed a 3+3 program for qualified students interested in pursuing a career as a physician assistant. Students attend the College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE) for three years and complete their required pre-requisite science and math courses as well as the requirements in general education. Following the successful completion of the requirements at CSE, a student then attends Seton Hall University (SHU) for three years to complete their training as a physician assistant. A student receives her B.S. in Biology after completing the first year of the program at SHU and her M.S. in Physician Assistant at the completion of the program. To top
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BIO-103

Concepts of Biology*

Credit Hours: 3

An introduction to biology for the non-science majors. Concepts covered will include such topics as the principles of evolution, taxonomy and speciation, evolution of plant life cycles, diversity of animals and their evolutionary relationships, fundamental properties of the cell, basic principles of heredity, cytogenetics and gene expression. Applications for everyday life and selected activities based on these concepts will be included. Satisfies Cluster 3 General Education requirement.
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PHYS-103

Physics in our Modern World*

Credit Hours: 3

This course offers non-science majors a one-semester introduction to modern physics and its place among the other sciences. It provides students with instruction in the basic concepts and the scientific method. It encourages them to apply their understanding of these topics to issues facing society. Satisfies Cluster 3 or Cluster 5 General Education requirement.
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BIO-105

Human Genetics*

Credit Hours: 4

A course designed to introduce the non-major student to basic concepts in human genetics. Topics include the cell, meiosis and development, transmission genetics, DNA and chromosomes, and an overview of current genetic technologies. Oral presentations and class discussions will also be integrated into this course. Satisfies Cluster 3 General Education requirement.
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BIO-109

Microbes & Society*

Credit Hours: 3

Explore the diversity of life not visible with the naked eye. This course will study the role and significant impact that microscopic organisms such as bacteria and viruses have on our lives and the world as a whole. Learn the positive impact they have on the food industry and agriculture, in the biotechnology and health industry, and in the environment. Learn of their negative role in disease and their threat as weapons in bioterrorism. This course will consist of lectures, lab demonstrations, class discussions and student presentations. Satisfies Cluster 3 General Education requirement.
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BIO-111

Fundamentals of Biology I

Credit Hours: 4

The first semester of a two-semester introductory course for biological science majors. Basic principles of modern biology will be presented. Major topics include the scientific method, chemical organization of life, structure, function and metabolism of the cell, photosynthesis, genetic basis of life, evolution, animal behavior and ecology. Lecture and investigative based experiments are incorporated into this course. Lecture: 3 hours; Lab 3 hours.
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BIO-111L

Lab:Fund of Bio I

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-113

Fundamentals of Biology II

Credit Hours: 4

The second semester of a two-semester introductory course for biological science majors. This course is a continuing study of living organisms and processes. Emphasis will be on the diversity of life, morphology, phylogeny and physiology of plants and animals. Lecture and investigative based experiments are incorporated into this course. Lecture: 3 hours; Lab 3 hours.
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BIO-113L

Lab:Fund Bio II

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-117

Human Physiology

Credit Hours: 4

A study of the structure and function of the organ systems of the human body and the mechanisms which control them. Topics include energy conversions in living cells, enzyme catalysis, metabolic pathways; and digestive, cardiac, respiratory, urinary and immune function. Lecture and investigative based experiments are integrated. Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 2 hours.
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BIO-117L

Lab:Human Physiology

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-119

Current Topics in Science

Credit Hours: 1

An examination of current areas of interest in science based on current issues in the news or various discoveries in science. Students will be challenged to examine the subject areas from a scientific, cultural, ethical, and moral standpoint. Prerequisite: First-year students only; permission of Department Chair required.
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APPSC-123

Physical Science*

Credit Hours: 3

A course designed for Applied Science major and others interested in fulfilling a general education requirement in physical science. Topics to be examined are physics, chemistry, and astronomy. Emphasis will be on major concepts, theory, and principles of physics, chemistry, and astronomy. Each discipline is treated both descriptively and quantitatively. Lecture: 3 hours; laboratory: 3 hours.
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APPSC-123L

Lab: Physical Science

Credit Hours: 1

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BIO-125

Women & Science:History,Health & Hope*

Credit Hours: 3

This course addresses issues in science of importance to women. The role of women as scientists, both historically and currently; women's health-the science involved as well as the social and political issues associated with women's health; and the importance of the involvement of women in all aspects of science. The course will develop critical thinking skills for application to relevant science-related issues of importance to women at the individual to the global level. Satisfies Cluster 3 or Cluster 5 General Education requirement.
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PHYS-149

General Physics I*

Credit Hours: 4

First part of a two-semester course in general physics. The laws of motion, vectors, work, energy, power, conservation laws, linear and angular momentum, and simple harmonic motion and covered. Lecture: 3 hours; laboratory: 3 hours. Pre-corequisite: MATH 153 or equivalent or by permission of the Chairperson of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department. Satisfies Cluster 3 General Education requirement.
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PHYS-149L

Lab:General Physics I

Credit Hours: 0

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PHYS-153

General Physics II*

Credit Hours: 4

Continuation of General Physics I. Wave motion, sound, electricity and magnetism, optics, and heat are covered. Lecture: 3 hours; laboratory: 3 hours. Prerequisite: MATH 153 or equivalent or by permission of the Chairperson of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department. Satisfies Cluster 3 General Education requirement.
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PHYS-153L

Lab:General Physics II

Credit Hours: 0

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APPSC-205

Earth Science*

Credit Hours: 3

An appropriate introduction to topics in earth science designed for Applied Science majors, Elementary Education students, and others interested in fulfilling a General Education requirement. Topics include geology, oceanography, and meteorology. Emphasis will be placed on developing a qualitative and quantitative understanding of the formation and dynamic properties of the earth, oceans, and atmosphere. Lecture: 3 hours. Includes an optional 1 credit laboratory component
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APPSC-205L

Lab: Earth Science

Credit Hours: 1

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APPSC-207

Appl Sci: Soph Sem

Credit Hours: 1

This is a course intended to broaden the knowledge base of the Applied Science major by insuring that certain current topics related to Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physical Science, and Environmental science are covered. The course requires the student to research several current areas of science related to their chosen specialization but not covered in other courses. Emphasis will be placed on the student developing the skills necessary to independently search the current literature, analyze the available information, and effectively communicate their findings to others. Credits: 1 credit
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BIO-209

Microbiology

Credit Hours: 4

A comprehensive introduction to the biology of microorganisms with special emphasis on bacteria and viruses. A survey of systematics, serology, immunology, ecology, genetics, and representative diseases of microbial origin together with the mechanisms for pathogenicity.will be studied. Fundamental microbial laboratory techniques will be integrated into this course. Prerequisite: BIO 111. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151. Lecture: 3 hours; Lab 3 hours.
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BIO-209L

Lab:Microbiology

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-251

Cellular Biology

Credit Hours: 4

Advanced exploration of the morphology, physiology and biochemical aspects of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Discussion includes organelle structure and function, cell membranes, the cytoskeleton, extracellular matrices, enzymes, metabolic pathways, cell division, gene expression, cell movement, and inter- and intra- cell signaling. Fundamental cell biology techniques are incorporated into this course. Students will also use problem-based laboratory examples to learn the required calculations and practical laboratory practices required for bench laboratory research. This course is intended for the biological science major. Prerequisite: BIO 111 and 113. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151 and CHEM 153. Lecture: 3 hours; Lab 3 hours.
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BIO-251L

Lab:Cellular Biology

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-303

Genetics

Credit Hours: 4

A study of the principles of both modern and Mendelian genetics and theories including the chemical nature, location, organization, mechanisms of transfer, expression, and evaluation of the information encoded in nucleic acids. Theories of genetic engineering will be introduced. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153 Lecture: 4 hours.
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BIO-305

Embryology

Credit Hours: 4

A study of major developmental stages and processes with an emphasis on vertebrate embryos. Topics include gametogenesis, primary germ layer formation, and organogenesis. Concepts of differentiation, tissue induction, and morphogenesis will be included. Experimental experiences include work with both vertebrate and invertebrate living organisms. Lecture and investigative based experimental activities are incorporated into this course. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 2 hours; Lab 4 hours.
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BIO-305L

Lab:Embryology

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-309

Histology

Credit Hours: 4

The microscopic study of tissues and the tissue organization of organs in relation to their function using light and electron microscopy. Tissue preparation for microscopic study, histochemistry, stains and stain technology will be included. Lecture and investigative based experimental activities are incorporated into this course. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 2 hours; Lab 4 hours.
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BIO-309L

Lab:Histology

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-311

Environmental Science

Credit Hours: 4

A course examining the various forces, both natural and man-made, affecting our environment. Scientific principles and concepts that form the knowledge base for an understanding of our interactions with the natural environment will be explored. Integrated field study activities that illustrate crucial environmental issues and relevant topics are investigated. Class meets 6 hours. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 2 hours; Lab 4 hours.
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BIO-311L

Lab:Env Science

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-313

Principles of Electron Microscopy

Credit Hours: 4

An integrative course studying theory and practice of scanning electron microscopy. Fundamental techniques in electron microscopy will be introduced, emphasizing specimen preparation and interpretation of micrographs. A survey of biological ultrastructure will be offered. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 2 hours; Lab 4 hours.
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BIO-313L

Lab:Elect Micro

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-321

Comparative Anatomy

Credit Hours: 4

A comparative anatomical study including embryology, changes and adaptations found in the major vertebrate classes. This course will incorporate dissection of typical vertebrates. Class meets 6 hours. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 2 hours; Lab: 4 hours.
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BIO-321L

Lab:Comparative Anatomy

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-331

Junior Seminar

Credit Hours: 1

Research on one aspect of a biological problem under the supervision of the staff. Projects will involve library and laboratory work. Approval of the chairperson required.
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BIO-333

Research I

Credit Hours: 1

Research on one aspect of a biological problem under the supervision of the staff. Projects will involve library and laboratory work. Approval of the Program Chairperson required. Variable Credit, students can register 1 or 2 credits.
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APPSC-407

AppSc:Senior Capstone

Credit Hours: 3

This is a course intended to prepare the Applied Science major to enter the workforce by requiring them to research a specific area of science related to education, business, communication, or writing depending upon their chosen specialization. Emphasis will be placed on the student developing the skills necessary to conduct a thorough search of the literature for an area of science, analyze the available information, and effectively communicate their findings to others. The course requires the completion of a written thesis and the oral presentation of the work. Credits: 1-3 credits
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BIO-409

Virology

Credit Hours: 4

An introduction to the structure, of viruses, the organization of their genomes.and replication. An emphasis on viruses that infect vertebrates will be studied. Students will be required to present an oral presentation on current research of viruses. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 4 hours.
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BIO-411

Pathogenic Microbiology

Credit Hours: 4

A survey of biologic basis of infectious disease associated with human microbial illnesses will be examined. Topics will include the mechanisms by which they cause diseases and how the body fights the microorganisms. Common microbial techniques such as isolation, detection and identification of human pathogenic microorganisms will be incorporated into this course. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113, 209 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 3 hours
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BIO-411L

Lab:Pathogenic Microbiology

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-413

Molecular Biology Techniques

Credit Hours: 4

A study of the concepts of molecular biology with emphasis on theory and laboratory techniques. Students engage in hands-on learning activities of molecular biology and biotechnology. Techniques include electrophoresis affinity, chromatography, peptide mapping and western blotting, restriction nuclease mapping, southern blot hybridization and various DNA cloning techniques. BIO 303 can be taken concurrently. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 2 hours; Lab: 4 hours.
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BIO-413L

Lab:Molecular Biology Techniques

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-415

Immunology

Credit Hours: 4

A study of several topics including cellular and humoral responses, immunoglobulins, antigen-antibody reactions, immunopathology, tissue transplantation, blood transfusion, and vaccines. Experimental activities of basic immunological techniques will be incorporated in this course. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 3 hours.
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BIO-415L

Lab:Immunology

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-417

Physiology

Credit Hours: 4

A study of the dynamics of basic functional activities of tissues, and vertebrate organs systems. An emphasis is placed on metabolism, homeostasis, concepts pertaining to physiological regulation, muscle and nerve physiology. Inquiry-based activities utilizing computer simulations, invertebrate models, and human physiology are integrated into this course. Prerequisite: BIO 111, 113 and 251. Pre-corequisite: CHEM 151, 153. Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 3 hours.
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BIO-417L

Lab:Physiology

Credit Hours: 0

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BIO-431

Senior Seminar

Credit Hours: 1

A course for seniors intended to extend the capacity of the biology major to understand advanced research literature, citations, review articles, and research papers. Emphasis will be placed on understanding advanced molecular methods and techniques and on data analysis. Each student will be required to write a research paper and present the results of her research. Lecture: 1 hour.
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BIO-433

Research II

Credit Hours: 1

A continuation of BIO 333. Students will continue to research one aspect of a biological problem under the supervision of the staff. Projects will involve library and laboratory work. In addition, students will gain actual experience in preparing, writing, and presenting a scientific paper. Papers may be submitted for publication. Prerequisite: BIO 333 or approval of chairperson.
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BIO-441

Special Topics

Credit Hours: 4

This course is designed to allow the study of emerging and/or significant areas relevant to biology. Topics may include areas of biology not offered on a regular basis in the department curriculum.
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BIO-491

Independent Study

Credit Hours: 3

Open to sophomore, junior, and senior biology majors. Approval of the chairperson required. Variable credit. Can be taken for 2, 3, or 4 crs.
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BIO-495

Internship

Credit Hours: 3

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