Biology Major
WHAT IS BIOLOGY?
Biology studies living organisms and their relationships. It explores the origin, growth, reproduction, structure, function and interrelationships of living organisms; as well as the human stewardship of living and non-living matter. Students also have exciting opportunities for field and laboratory research.
WHAT KINDS OF BIOLOGY DEGREES DOES KING’S OFFER?
Available As A Major For:
4-Year Bachelor of Science
Available As a Concentration For:
3-Year Bachelor of Science
4-Year Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies
4-Year Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies
3-Year Bachelor of Arts
Available As A Minor For:
B.A. B.Com., B.Mus., 4-Year B.Sc.
| 4-Year Biology Degree | ||
| General Education Requirements | at least 30 credits |
-English (6) -Theology (3) -History (3) -Philosophy (3) -I.S Seminar (3) -Fine Arts (3) -Social Sciences (3) -Others (6) |
| Biology Courses | 42 to 60 credits |
-Intro.(6) -Botany/Zoology/Microbiology (6) -Ecology (3) -Animal/Plant Physiology (3) -Genetics (3) -History and Theology of Bio (3) -Modelling (3) -Experimental Methods (3) -Molecular Cell Biology/Biochemistry (6) -Seminar (2) -Research (4) -Others (min 3) |
| Cognates | at least 18 credi | -Chemistry (12) -Math(3) -Statistics (3) |
| Elective Courses | to add up to 123 credits | All remaining credits may be used to add major credit (up to 60), to make a minor (18-24 credits), or as open electives. |
Scholarships & Awards:
We have a small population of students applying for a significant number of science scholarships including, but not limited to, the following:
- Dr. Harry Cook Science Scholarship($1,000)
- Simona Maaskant Memorial Science Scholarship ($1,000)
- Sunstar Scholarship ($1,000)
- William Sinnema Memorial Science Scholarship ($500)
- Other scholarships may also be available
Courses Available Include:
(for full course descriptions, see the registry pages here)BIOL 200 - Human Anatomy and Physiology
BIOL 204 - Insects and Humanity
BIOL 210 - Cellular Introduction to Biology
BIOL 211 - Organisms in their Environment
BIOL 320 - Introduction to Genetics
BIOL 330 - Ecology
BIOL 340 - Plant Diversity
BIOL 342 - Vertebrate Zoology
BIOL 344 - Invertebrate Zoology
BIOL 346 - General Microbiology
BIOL 352 - Physiology of the Vertebrates
BIOL 356 - Plant Physiology
BIOL 362 - Ethology
BIOL 364 - Brain and Behaviour
BIOL 391 - Experimental Methods in Biology
BIOL 395 - Biology Seminar
BIOL 399 - Special Topics in Biology
BIOL 422 - Molecular Cell Biology I (formerly BIOL 322)
BIOL 423 - Molecular Cell Biology II (formerly BIOL 323)
BIOL 432 - Limnology
BIOL 434 - Population Ecology
BIOL 436 - Conservation Biology
BIOL 438 - Plant Ecology
BIOL 466 - Evolution, Genes, And Behavior
BIOL 470 - Biochemistry I
BIOL 471 - Biochemistry II
BIOL 474 - Chemistry of Ecological Relationships
BIOL 478 - Modeling in Biology
BIOL 480 - History and Theory of Biology
BIOL 486 - Evolutionary Biology
BIOL 494 - Senior Independent Project
BIOL 495 - Biology Seminar
BIOL 497 - Senior Thesis
BIOL 499 - Directed Studies in Biology
Related Links
Course Schedule | Biology Department
Human Anatomy and Physiology, Every Year, Fall 3(3-0-3)
An introductory study of the human body which includes anatomy and physiology. The relationship between structure and function is emphasized. This course meets the natural science (with lab) breadth requirement for the B.A., and it may meet biology major/concentration requirements. Same as PHED 200.
Insects and Humanity, 2008-09, Winter 3(3-0-3)
Insects are often hated, sometimes loved, but seldom ignored. These minute creatures provide a window into the complexities of the biological world. This course offers a survey of the varied habitats and peculiar habits of insects, including their competition with humans for food and fiber and their role as disease agents. This course meets the natural science (with lab) breadth requirement for the B.A. but does not meet major/concentration requirements in biology.
Cellular Introduction to Biology, Every Year, Fall 3(3-0-3)
An introduction to the structure and function of cells in organisms. Topics include the origin of life, the development of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, biological energy conversions, compartmentation of biochemical functions within the cell, inter- and intra-cellular communications. Molecular genetic analysis will be used to examine the control of cellular activities and their application in genetic engineering and biotechnology will be discussed. Students with credit in BIOL 261 or BIOL 262 cannot receive credit in BIOL 210.
Prerequisites: Biology 30 or Science 30 (Students who intend to use Science 30 as a prerequisite must consult with and have the consent of the instructor.)
Organisms in their Environment, Every Year, Winter 3(3-0-3)
Organisms of all the major groups are affected by their environment and exert their influence on their environment and on each other. Topics will include a description of these relationships, of their development over time, and of theories of evolutionary development of these organisms. Students with credit in BIOL 261 or BIOL 262 cannot receive credit in BIOL 211.
Prerequisites: Biology 30 or Science 30 (Students who intend to use Science 30 as a prerequisite must consult with and have the consent of the instructor.)
Introduction to Genetics, Every Year, Winter 3(3-0-3)
The cellular and molecular basis of heredity. Mendelian genetics and its chromosomal basis, linkage and genetic mapping in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and changes in chromosome number will be studied. DNA as genetic material, the genetic code, replication, control of protein synthesis, governance of gene action, and recombinant DNA techniques will receive emphasis. Students with credit in BIOL 354 or BIOL 355 cannot receive credit in BIOL 320.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211
Ecology, Every Year, Fall 3(3-0-3)
Relationships among animals, plants and the non-living environment, energy flow, nutrient cycles, ecological succession, communities, populations; application of ecological principles to the modern world. Laboratory work focuses on using basic techniques of ecological investigation. Participation in a three-day, overnight field trip on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of the last weekend of September is required.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211, CHEM 200, 201
Plant Diversity, 2008-09, Fall 3(3-0-3)
A study of all the major plant groups. Representative organism of each group will be examined in terms of their anatomy, morphology, and life cycle. Classification and adaptation will receive special attention. Students with credit in BIOL 261 cannot receive credit in BIOL 340.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211
Vertebrate Zoology, 2008-09, Winter 3(3-0-3)
The biology of vertebrate animals. The diversity, reproductive patterns, adaptations of structure and of function in all the vertebrate classes will be studied. Students with credit in BIOL 262 cannot receive credit in BIOL 342.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211
Invertebrate Zoology, 2009-10, Fall 3(3-0-3)
An introductory survey of the comparative anatomy, ecology, classification and behavior of the invertebrates. Emphasis is placed on non-parasitic organisms. Laboratory exercises are designed to demonstrate the basic morphological specializations of representative phyla.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211
General Microbiology, 2009-10, Winter 3(3-0-3)
The organization, morphology and cell structure of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria and fungi. Microbial growth and its control, aspects of medical and applied microbiology and microbial ecology are discussed. Laboratory exercises are designed to demonstrate basic microbiological techniques as well as relevant microbial activities and functions.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211, CHEM 200, 201
Physiology of the Vertebrates, 2009-10, Fall 3(3-0-3)
A study of the physiological processes that allow the various vertebrates to live in their biotopes. How these physiological processes are regulated receives special attention.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211
Plant Physiology, 2008-09, Winter 3(3-0-3)
Basic principles of plant physiology including water relations, mineral nutrition, xylem and phloem transport, gas exchange, photosynthesis, respiration, growth and development. The influence of the environment on these processes will receive special attention.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211, CHEM 200, 201.
Ethology, 2010-11, Fall 3(3-2-0)
An overview of the evolution, function and development of animal behavior. Evolutionary processes (e.g. selection and adaptation), physiological processes (e.g. the nervous system and behavior), the behavior of individuals (e.g. development, learning, mating), and the ecology of behavior (e.g. foraging) are discussed. Same as PSYC 370. This course does not meet the natural science (with lab) breadth requirement.
Prerequisites: PSYC 250 or 251, and PSYC 301 and 302 or BIOL 210 or BIOL 211
Brain and Behavior, Every Year, Winter 3(3-0-0)
A study of the relation between biology and behavior in humans. Topics include mind/brain issues, brain development, genes and behavior, structure and function of the nervous system, brain disorders, biopsychology of motivated disorders drug abuse and lateralization. Foundational issues as well as biological details will be emphasized. Same as PSYC 375. This course does not meet the natural science (with lab) breadth requirement.
Prerequisites: One of BIOL 200, 210, 211, PSYC 250 or 251.
Experimental Methods in Biology, 2008-09, Fall 3(3-0-3)
An introduction to the design of experiments and analysis of data collected from field and laboratory studies in biology. Statistical software will be used extensively.
Prerequisites: BIOL 320, 330, STAT 300.
Biology Seminar, Every Year, Full Year Course 1(0-1-0)
A weekly seminar through the entire academic year, exploring the contexts for the discipline of biology, including historical, methodological, ethical and societal dimensions, as well as current biological topics of interest in basic research, industrial and environmental settings. Ethical and professional responsibilities for biologists in industrial, research and academic settings will be addressed, as well as other topics that explore the interface between biology and society. Students, faculty and visiting speakers will give presentations. This course will meet concurrently with BIOL 495, and from time to time with CHEM 395/495. It is required for third-year biology majors. First and second year students are strongly encouraged to attend presentations. Mark for the course will be pass/fail.
Prerequisites: Six credits in biology at the 300 level.
Special Topics in Biology, Subject to demand, 3(3-0-0)
A course on a topic or figure of special interest to a member of the biology faculty and offered on a non-recurring basis.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211; some topics may have more specific prerequisites.
Molecular Cell Biology I (formerly BIOL 322) 2008-09, Fall 3(3-0-3)
A detailed examination of the molecular basis of cell structure and function. Topics included are: cell culture, DNA replication and recombination, regulation of transcription, gene control in development, membrane structure and function, organelle biogenesis, cell-to-cell signaling, nerve cells, cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix, multicellularity, control of the cell cycle, cancer, and immunity. Special emphasis is placed on the tools of molecular genetic analysis. The laboratory work is designed to provide hands-on experience with current molecular genetics techniques. Students with credit in BIOL 303 cannot receive credit in BIOL 422.
Prerequisites: BIOL 210, 211, 320 Corequisite: CHEM 350.
Molecular Cell Biology II (formerly BIOL 323), 2008-09, Winter 3(3-0-3)
A continuation of BIOL 422. Students with credit in BIOL 303 cannot receive credit in BIOL 423.
Prerequisites: BIOL 422 Corequisite: CHEM 351
Limnology, 2009-10, Winter 3(3-0-3)
Discussion of the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of inland waters including lakes, wetlands and streams. Topics include phytoplankton dynamics,biogeochemical cycles, and results of natural and cultural alterations. Participation in three 1.5 day (overnight, Saturday) field trips is required.
Prerequisites: BIOL 330, CHEM 200, 201.
Population Ecology, 2008-09, Fall 3(3-0-3)
The principles of population ecology in plants and animals including: the population consequences of variation among individuals; habitat and population structure; habitat selection and foraging theory. Exploration of demographic tools for population dynamics (life tables and other models), the evolution of life histories, population dynamics, and population regulation through organism interactions (competition, predation, mutualisms).
Prerequisites: BIOL 330, and either MATH 200 or STAT 300.
Conservation Biology, 2008-09, Winter 3(3-1.5-0)
A discussion of the principles of conservation biology with applications to sustainable human society and biosphere integrity. This course develops the theoretical and applied basis for maintaining plant and animal populations considered endangered, threatened or at risk. It explores the complex factors contributing to the decline, extinction, or recovery of species. The course develops a stewardship perspective rooted in biological principles, and ethical, historical and economic considerations. Local, regional and global conservation strategies are discussed. This course does not meet the natural science (with lab) breadth requirement.
Prerequisites: BIOL 330.
Plant Ecology, 2009-10, Winter 3(3-0-3)
Topics covered in Plant Ecology include ecophysiology, population biology, the structure and dynamics of plant communities, ecosystems, and landscapes, and climate and vegetative interactions, Field methods and analysis techniques for studying plant ecology will be covered.
Prerequisites: BIOL 330 and STAT 300.
Evolution, Genes, And Behavior, 2010-11, Fall 3(3-0-0)
This course examines how evolutionary psychology and behavior genetics can illuminate our embodied nature, and explores the strengths, limitations and implications of these approaches for understanding the human cycle. This course also examines how research and theorizing in these two areas are influencing culture, via the media.
Prerequisites: PSYC 250 or 251, and PSYC 301 or at least 6 credits in biology at the senior level
Biochemistry I, 2009-10, Fall 3(3-0-3)
This course is designed to introduce students to biochemistry. The focus of the lectures is on the structure and function of the chemical constituents of living organisms. The lectures cover such topics as the energetics of biochemical reactions, amino acids and peptides, protein structure and function, enzyme kinetics, bioenergetics, carbohydrates and carbohydrate metabolism. Same as CHEM 400.
Prerequisites: CHEM 351
Biochemistry II, 2009-10, Winter 3(3-0-3)
This course is a continuation of BIOL 470. The topics covered include electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation, lipids and lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, nucleic acids and their metabolism, photosynthesis, the chemical structure of genes and chromosomes, protein synthesis, and the structure and function of biological membranes. Same as CHEM 401.
Prerequisites: BIOL 470 or CHEM 400.
Chemistry of Ecological Relationships, 2009-10, Winter 3(3-1.5-0)
An introduction to the chemical basis and mechanisms fundamental to the interaction between organisms. Topics included are: plant biochemical adaptation to the environment, chemistry of pollination, plant toxins, hormonal interactions between plants and animals, chemical basis for insect feeding preferences and vertebrate feeding preferences, animal pheromones, and chemical interactions between plants. This course does not meet the natural science (with lab) breadth requirement.
Prerequisites: CHEM 351, BIOL 330.
Modeling In Biology, 2008-09, Winter 3(3-0-3)
An introduction to techniques and software programs used to model biological, chemical, physical or environmental phenomena. Laboratory work will be tailored to students' interests and needs. Same as ENVS 478.
Prerequisites: BIOL 320, 330, MATH 200.
History and Theory of Biology, Every Year, Fall 3(3-1.5-0)
The history of biology from early times to the present. Ideas influencing the study of biological phenomena, and the effects of biological developments upon human ideas and culture are discussed. This course does not meet the natural science (with lab) breadth requirement.
Prerequisites: At least 9 credits in biology at the 300-level.
Evolutionary Biology, 2009-10, Winter 3(3-1.5-0)
Exploration of evolutionary processes, including the theoretical and experimental basis for the evolution of organisms. A survey of the fossil record, population genetics, variation, natural selection, adaptation and the mechanisms of species formation. Special attention will be given to the history of evolutionary theory and its place in biology. This course does not meet the natural science (with lab) breadth requirement.
Prerequisites: BIOL 320, 330.
BIOL 494 - Senior Independent Project, Every Year, Fall and Winter 2(0-1-3)
In this course students conduct an independent project, designed in consultation with the instructor. This project may be an independent research project in the laboratories at the University College, a cooperative project with a public agency, or a biological literature research project. Other ventures are possible. Before the work commences, the student is required to submit a detailed proposal. Upon completion of the project, the results must be presented in the form of a paper and a seminar. This course is only open to students registered in the 3-year B.A. or B.Sc. biology degree program and students in the environmental studies biology degree program.
Prerequisites: Six credits in biology at the 300-level.
Biology Seminar, Every Year, Full Year Course, 1(0-1-0)
A weekly seminar through the entire academic year, exploring the contexts for the discipline of biology, including historical, methodological, ethical and societal dimensions, as well as current biological topics of interest in basic research, industrial and environmental settings. Ethical and professional responsibilities for biologists in industrial, research and academic settings will be addressed, as well as other topics that explore the interface between biology and society. Students, faculty and visiting speakers will give presentations. This course will meet concurrently with BIOL 395, and from time to time with CHEM 395/495. It is required for fourth-year biology majors. First and second year students are strongly encouraged to attend presentations. Mark for the course will be pass/fail.
Prerequisites: Six credits in biology at the 300-level.
Senior Thesis, 2008-09, Full Year Course 4(0-0-4)
Independent full-year research project carried out under the mentorship of a faculty member. This project may be an independent research project in the laboratories at the University College or a cooperative project with another laboratory or agency. Upon completion of the project, the results are presented in the form of a senior thesis and a seminar. The BIOL 497 thesis research can also be carried out in a summer of full-time research work at The King's University College laboratories or as an intern.
Prerequisites: Consent of the instructor.
Directed Studies in Biology, Every Year, Fall and Winter 1 to 3 (varies)
An opportunity to do advanced study of a special topic of particular interest to a student. Students work with a member of the biology faculty. Students must apply in advance to a member of the biology faculty.
Prerequisites: Six credits in biology at the 300-level, and consent of instructor.