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2026-2027 Academic Year

Fall 2026

NRSC 317 Neuroplasticity
This course will explore the biological basis of neuroplasticity with a focus on the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie learning and memory and how they lead to changes in behavior. We will discuss how the connections between neurons (synapses) are altered by experience through changes in protein expression and cell structure, how cellular signaling pathways are involved in memory formation and extinction, and how neurons work together in dynamic circuits. We will also briefly examine what happens when memory fails or when learning leads to problematic behaviors, such as with dementia and substance use disorders. The laboratory (3 hrs/week) will explore common neuroscience techniques that use behavioral and biological methods of evaluating learning and memory and changes in synaptic strength, with an emphasis on animal models. Prerequisite: BIOL 132 and NRSC 200.

BIOL 335 Microanatomy
An integrated lecture and laboratory course focused on the functional microanatomy/histology of mammals. This course will examine the microscopic anatomy of cells, tissues, organ, and organ systems and the crucial relationship between form and function. The laboratory portion of the course will emphasize the process of microscopic examination and cover methods of contemporary histologic technique. Prerequisites: One 200-level BIOL course. For Neuroscience majors, prerequisite is NRSC 200.

BIOL 412 Physio of Prehosp Emerg Care
Through detailed study of the primary biological literature, students acquire an understanding of the methodology and philosophy of scientific research. Includes study of the formulation of hypotheses, the design of experiments or observations to test these hypotheses, and the interpretation of results. This course will normally require a major research-based presentation and/or paper and may also involve the conduct of research by students. This course satisfies the requirement for a research experience for the biology major. Prerequisites: one 200-level Biology course and one upper-level Biology course.

Spring 2027

BIOL 334 Comp Vertebrate Anatomy w/lab
An integrated lecture and laboratory course exploring the functional morphology and evolution of vertebrates. Students will apply foundational content from lecture and intensive techniques of manual tissue dissection in the laboratory to fully evaluate the structure & function integrative design of selected, preserved specimens. Six hours classroom a week. Prerequisites: One 200-level BIOL course. For Neuroscience majors, prerequisite is NRSC 200.