May 18, 2024  
2020-2021 Catalogue 
    
2020-2021 Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOGUE]

Courses of Instruction


 

Topics Courses   

 

Art and Art History

  
  • ART 483 - Studio Art Seminar (1)

    Readings and discussions about theories of art in conjunction with a studio practicum. Includes a week long stay in Chicago. Additional fees required. Prerequisites: Senior standing and Studio Art major (junior standing with approval by department). No alternate grade option. [SA]
  
  • ART 484 - Art History Seminar (1)

    Readings and discussions about theories of art and the methodologies of art history with a practicum. Includes a week long stay in Chicago. Additional fees required. Prerequisites: declared Art History major. Alternate years. No alternate grade option. [AH]
  
  • ART 487 - Senior Thesis (1)

    A substantial capstone project to be completed during the senior year. Studio majors conceive, create, and mount an exhibition of a new body of work. Art history majors research an art historical problem, write a research paper, prepare an abstract, and provide a public presentation of their work with the goal of creating an original contribution to the discipline. An oral defense is required for either major. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application. No alternate grade option.
  
  • ART 490 - Independent Study (1)

    See Additional Academic Opportunities . Independent Credit Bearing Courses  - 290/390/490 Independent Study No alternate grade option.
  
  
  • ART 514 - Life Drawing (1/4)

    Open studio for working from the human figure. Does not fulfill fine arts credit. No alternate grade option.
    (CR)

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  • BMB 485 - Problems (1)

    Investigation of a problem in biochemistry and/or molecular biology, including a review of the literature, collection and interpretation of data, and writing of a research report. For seniors and advanced juniors. This is a capstone experience for BMB majors. Arrangements must be made with the instructor before registering. May be repeated once for credit. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
    (Natural Sciences) (Writing Encounter)
  
  

Biology

  
  
  
  • BIO 103 - Investigations (1)

    Investigative approach to the solution of biological problems, emphasizing designing, executing, and interpreting research. Specific research areas are confined to the interests of each instructor. Recommended for non-science majors.  This course is not open to students who have completed any 200-level biology course.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 106 - Biology for the Schools (1)

    Basic biology, emphasizing the investigative approach to solve biological problems. Students will design, execute, and interpret research. Class projects will teach application of scientific method and basic laboratory techniques. Research topics will vary with each instructor. Recommended for Education majors. This course is not open to students who have completed any 200-level biology course.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 108 - Topic: Snip, Snip: Potentials and Limitations of Gene Editing (W) (1)

    Genetic engineering has tremendous potential from optimizing agriculture by developing disease-resistance plants and improving crop yields, to treating cancer, genetic diseases and infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS. However, along with these potentials come ethical considerations such as the potential for human germline manipulation and the production of “designer babies”. This course will consider the basic concepts of genetics including the structure and function of genes and genomes. We will discuss how the genome of an organism can be manipulated by “add in” or “cutting out” genes. We will consider the potential of gene editing using CRISPR/Cas9 and how this technology is being used in agriculture and particularly in human health. Not open to students who have previously completed a First-Year Writing Course.
    (First Year Writing Seminar (FYW)) (Science)
  
  • BIO 108 - Topics: COVID & Natural Environment (W) (1)

    The recent news reports have been dominated by the negative aspects of the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. However, the resulting slowing down and isolation of people may be having a positive impact on the environment. Air quality has improved. Carbon emissions are lower. Wildlife consumption and trade have stricter enforcement. Populations of native wild species are have been easier to find near human residential areas for the first time in decades. These are all good signs, but are these effects only temporary? How do we measure these changes? And, can these environmental responses to lowered human disturbance provide insights to how we could encourage long term, sustainable improvements after the pandemic subsides? This course will focus on the effects of COVID-19 on our natural environment by exploring anecdotes, case studies, and studied impacts reported in the media. Students will learn about how environmental effects are measured and how to predict the results of such changes on other aspects of our environment. Significant time will be spent on the writing process, including critical reading of primary and secondary sources, and drafting and revising different types of academic writing for different target audiences. Not open to students who have previously completed a First-Year Writing Course. This course i not open to students who have completed any 200-level biology course.
    (First Year Writing Seminar (FYW)) (Science)
  
  • BIO 108 - Topics: COVID & Natural Environment (W) (1)

    The recent news reports have been dominated by the negative aspects of the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. However, the resulting slowing down and isolation of people may be having a positive impact on the environment. Air quality has improved. Carbon emissions are lower. Wildlife consumption and trade have stricter enforcement. Populations of native wild species are have been easier to find near human residential areas for the first time in decades. These are all good signs, but are these effects only temporary? How do we measure these changes? And, can these environmental responses to lowered human disturbance provide insights to how we could encourage long term, sustainable improvements after the pandemic subsides? This course will focus on the effects of COVID-19 on our natural environment by exploring anecdotes, case studies, and studied impacts reported in the media. Students will learn about how environmental effects are measured and how to predict the results of such changes on other aspects of our environment. Significant time will be spent on the writing process, including critical reading of primary and secondary sources, and drafting and revising different types of academic writing for different target audiences. Not open to students who have previously completed a First-Year Writing Course. This course is not open to students who have completed any 200-level biology course.
    (First Year Writing Seminar (FYW)) (Science)
  
  • BIO 108 - Topics: The Science of COVID-19 (W) (1)

    The COVID-19 pandemic is unparalleled. No, actually it is not; pandemics such as this have happened before. The problem is that we may have ignored the lessons from previous pandemics. This course will examine previous pandemics, the current pandemic and the disease, COVID-19, along with the virus that causes this disease. We will dissect this virus asking questions such as: what is a coronavirus; how does this virus differ from other coronaviruses; how does SARS-CoV-19 enter cells, and what does this virus do there. We will discuss just what constitutes an infectious disease and how are infectious diseases spread. We will consider the body’s response to the virus. We will talk about zoonotic infections, public health measures, susceptibility, and how the current infodemic is enhancing this pandemic. Not open to students who have previously completed a First-Year Writing Course. This course is not open to students who have completed any 200-level biology course.
    (First Year Writing Seminar (FYW)) (Science)
  
  • BIO 141 - Foundations: Cellular Biology (1)

    The course introduces students to the principles of cell structure, cell function and information transfer by emphasizing the investigative approach to biological questions. Students design, execute, and interpret research. Research topics will vary with each instructor. This course is a prerequisite for most upper-level Biology courses.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 142 - Foundations: Organismal Biology (1)

    The topics of genetics, evolution, speciation, classification, the diversity of life, ecology, biological communities, and animal behavior. This course is a prerequisite for all upper-level Biology courses.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 205 - Cell and Molecular Biology (1)

    Basic metabolism and organization of cells and intracellular organelles. Introduction to the structure and synthesis of biological macromolecules. Prerequisites: BIO 141 , BIO 142 , and CHE 225 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 207 - Systems Physiology (1)

    Fundamental study of the complementarity of human anatomical structure and physiological function of the integumentary, endocrine, nervous, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal systems. Special emphasis on development of a mechanistic understanding of organ system function and integrated physiological function across systems to promote homeostatic regulation in the human body. Inclusion of experiential learning through laboratory activities. Prerequisite: sophomore standing. Cross Listed as KIN 207 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 209 - Plant Morphology (1)

    Structure and function of plants. Ecological, evolutionary, and physiological perspectives. Prerequisite: BIO 141  and BIO 142 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 211 - Evolution (1)

    Principles of evolution. Emphasis on modern evolutionary biology, evidence, and methods of hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: BIO 141  and BIO 142 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 230 - Conservation Biology (1)

    Ecological, evolutionary, and other biological principles and their application to the maintenance of global and local biodiversity. One or more field trips may extend beyond normal class hours. Prerequisite: BIO 142 .
    (Science)
  
  • BIO 254 - Ornithology (1)

    Basic biology of birds, emphasizing taxonomy, structure, ecology, behavior, distribution, and natural history. May include an extended field trip. Other field trips may extend beyond normal class hours. Prerequisite:  BIO 142 . Alternate years.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  
  
  
  • BIO 305 - Advanced Molecular Biology (1)

    A continuation of BIO 205 , with coverage of a topic of interest in molecular biology such as virology, aging, cytoskeleton, gene regulation, hormones, or oncology. Prerequisite: BIO 205 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 308 - Invertebrate Zoology (1)

    Structure, classification, physiology, reproduction, life history, natural history, ecology, and evolution of invertebrates. Prerequisites: BIO 211  or BIO 141 , BIO 142 , and permission of instructor. Offered subject to the availability of staff.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 312 - Vertebrate Zoology (1)

    Survey of the biology of vertebrates, emphasizing structure, classification, physiology, reproductive biology, ecology, natural history, and evolution. Prerequisites: BIO 211  or BIO 141 , BIO 142 , and permission of instructor. Offered subject to the availability of staff.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 313 - Developmental Biology (1)

    Principles of development with an emphasis on early developmental changes. The course focuses on cellular and molecular changes associated with gene expression, induction, and morphology. Prerequisite: BIO 205 . Alternate years.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 315 - Genetics (1)

    Principles of inheritance in plants and animals. Emphasis on the laws of heredity and molecular genetics. Laboratory research in molecular genetics. Recommended for juniors and seniors. Not to be taken in the same academic year as BIO 205 . Prerequisite: BIO 205 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 321 - Ecology (1)

    Ecological theory. Why do individuals and species live the way they do, in the numbers they do, in the areas they do; and what environmental influences guided their evolution? Field trips may extend beyond normal class hours. Prerequisites: BIO 211  and permission of instructor.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 326 - Microbiology (1)

    Survey of microbial world with emphasis on bacterial genetics and metabolism, and the role of microbial activities in the environment. Prerequisite: BIO 205 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 327 - Immunology (1)

    A study of the human immune system including the basic principles involved in host defense mechanisms and methods of immunology. Prerequisite: BIO 205 . Alternate years.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 328 - Neurobiology (1)

    The molecular, cellular, and physiological aspects of the nervous system. Emphasis is placed on basic properties of nerve cells, neural circuits, and organization and function of the mammalian nervous system. Prerequisite: BIO 205 . Alternate years.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 329 - Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology I (1)

    An integrative approach to understanding basic anatomical and physiological relationships of the nervous, endocrine, immune, cardiovascular, respiratory, and excretory systems of the human. Prerequisites: BIO 205  or BIO 141  and sophomore standng and permission of instructor. Alternate years. No alternate grade option.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 330 - Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology II (1)

    An integrative approach to understanding basic anatomical and physiological relationships of the human skeletal, muscular, digestive, and reproductive systems and the control of these systems by the nervous and endocrine systems. Prerequisites: BIO 205 . Alternate years. No alternate grade option.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 332 - Plant Systematics (1)

    Evolution and classification of vascular plants with an emphasis on field identification of flowering plants. Prerequisite: BIO 211 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 334 - Animal Behavior (1)

    This course includes one overnight field trip which requires an additional fee for lodging and facility rental. Other field trips may extend beyond normal class hours.Evolution, development, causation, and function of behavior with emphasis on the origins and adaptive function of behaviors of vertebrates and invertebrates. Prerequisite: BIO 211 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • BIO 335 - Chemical Ecology (1)

    This course explores how organisms use naturally occurring chemicals to influence ecological interactions. Case studies will illustrate both interspecific and intraspecific interactions among plants, insects, animals, and microbes, including behaviors such as mate selection, colony organization, and defense. Some attention will be given to the biochemical origins of these compounds. Prerequisite: BIO 205 . Alternate years.
  
  • BIO 337 - Entomology (1)

    The evolutionary history, morphology, taxonomy, physiology, ecology, behavior, and economic importance of insects. Laboratories will focus on sampling, preservation, identification, and experimentation with insects. Field trips may extend beyond normal class hours. Prerequisites: BIO 211  or BIO 141 , BIO 142 , and permission of instructor. Offered every third year.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  
  • BIO 382 - Advanced Topics: Endangered Species (1)

    This course investigates the biology and ecology of endangered species. Using case-studies and real-world examples, students will explore factors that contribute to species endangerment such as habitat degradation and loss, anthropogenic disturbance, unregulated hunting pressure, natural and human-caused rarity, and ecological specialization. Students will also learn how they, as biologists, can make a difference, using modeling tools like population viability analysis to predict population persistence, and applying biological and ecological strategies to plan for the recovery and sustainable management of species of concern. This will serve as an animal credit in Biology Prerequisites: BIO 142  or ENV 201 , and junior standing or instructor permission.
  
  
  
  • BIO 399 - Preservation Ecology Summer Internship (1)

    Field experience during the summer under the auspices of the Iowa Nature Conservancy in preservation ecology techniques, including biological resource assessment, monitoring animal and plant populations, landowner contacts, mapping, preparing reports, and designated preserve management tasks. Prerequisites: (1) at least five term credits in Biology; (2) at least two of the following: BIO 209 , BIO 254 , BIO 308 , BIO 312 , BIO 321 , BIO 332 , BIO 334 , or BIO 337 ; (3) junior standing; and (4) acceptance by the Nature Conservancy.
  
  • BIO 483 - Senior Seminar in Biology (1)

    Readings, presentations, and discussions from the recent research literature focused on an area of interest and/or expertise of the instructor. Prerequisites: BIO or BMB major and senior standing. Recommended prerequisite: BIO 315 .
  
  • BIO 485 - Biological Problems (1)

    Investigation of a biological problem, including a review of the literature, collection and interpretation of data, and writing of a research report. Intended for seniors or advanced juniors, this is a capstone experience for Biology majors. Arrangements must be made with the instructor before registering. May be repeated once for credit. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
    (Writing Encounter)
  
  
  
  • BIO 511 - Extended Research in Biology (1/4)

    Reading in depth on a topic of current interest and the pursuit of an experimental or theoretical problem related to the topic. This adjunct course must be taken over four successive terms. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.

Chemistry

  
  • CHE 111 - Chemistry in the Natural World (1)

    Basic concepts of chemistry and their implications for a technological society. Emphasis on quantitative and qualitative aspects of chemistry as they apply to topics of importance today. Intended for non-science majors. No previous study of chemistry required.
    (Laboratory Science) (Quantitative Reasoning Encounter)
  
  • CHE 121 - Chemical Principles I (1)

    Fundamental concepts of chemistry, mole concept, energy, theories of the atom and the chemical bond, and molecular geometry. This course is intended primarily for those considering a major in science.
    (Laboratory Science) (Quantitative Reasoning Encounter)
  
  • CHE 122 - Chemical Principles II (1)

    Rates of chemical reactions, equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and an introduction to thermodynamics. Reactions and properties of selected elements and their compounds. Prerequisite: CHE 121 .
    (Laboratory Science) (Quantitative Reasoning Encounter)
  
  • CHE 161 - Accelerated General Chemistry (1)

    Fundamental concepts of chemistry: atomic theory, quantum theory, bonding, states of matter, thermodynamics, equilibrium, and kinetics. The course is designed for students who have a good understanding of atoms, molecules, and mole calculations. This course is the equivalent of CHE 121  and CHE 122 . Credit may be given for either 161 or CHE 121  - CHE 122 , but not both. Prerequisite: placement exam or permission of the instructor.
    (Laboratory Science) (Quantitative Reasoning Encounter)
  
  • CHE 202 - Analytical Chemistry (1)

    Concepts of analysis, volumetric techniques, and an introduction to instrumental techniques. Prerequisite: CHE 122  or CHE 161 .
    (Laboratory Science) (Quantitative Reasoning Encounter)
  
  • CHE 225 - Organic Chemistry I Lecture (1)

    Chemistry of carbon compounds. Determination of molecular constitution and configuration and the chemistry of common functional groups. Prerequisite: CHE 122  or CHE 161 .
    (Science)
  
  
  
  
  • CHE 323 - Physical Chemistry I (1)

    Concepts of physical chemistry, including the kinetic-molecular theory of gases, kinetics, quantum mechanics, atomic and molecular structure and energetics, spectroscopy, symmetry, and classical and statistical thermodynamics. Prerequisites: MAT 122  and either CHE 122  or CHE 161 . Recommended prerequisite: PHY 263 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • CHE 324 - Physical Chemistry II (1)

    Thermodynamics and descriptions of systems of equilibria from both classical and statistical perspectives, molecular spectroscopy, quantum mechanics, atomic structure, and theories of reaction rates. Prerequisite: CHE 323 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • CHE 326 - Organic Chemistry II Lecture (1)

    Continuation of CHE 225 . Methods of synthesis and the reactions of organic compounds. Prerequisite: CHE 225 .
    (Science)
  
  • CHE 327 - Organic Chemistry Laboratory (1)

    Practical laboratory aspects of organic chemistry. Isolation and purification of substances; one-step transformations of substances; and, possibly, synthesis projects. Prerequisite: CHE 326 .
    (Laboratory Science) (Writing Encounter)
  
  • CHE 328 - Advanced Organic Chemistry (1)

    Selected advanced topics of reaction mechanisms or syntheses of organic compounds. Prerequisite: CHE 327 . Not offered every year.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • CHE 333 - Advanced Analytical Chemistry (1)

    Theory of analytical chemistry with an emphasis on instrumental methods. Prerequisites: CHE 202 , CHE 323 , and CHE 327 . Not offered every year.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • CHE 334 - Biochemistry (1)

    Cellular metabolism, with emphasis on energy extraction pathways and energy homeostasis. The approach is primarily mechanistic with a quantitative discussion of kinetics, free-energy changes, and the electrochemistry of electron transport chains. Prerequisites: BIO 205 , CHE 202 , and CHE 327 .
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • CHE 335 - Advanced Inorganic Chemistry (1)

    Properties of inorganic compounds with emphasis on theories of bonding and the chemistry of coordination compounds. Prerequisites: CHE 323  and CHE 327 . Not offered every year.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  • CHE 339 - Advanced Physical Chemistry (1)

    Quantum mechanics, symmetry and group theory, applications of thermodynamics, and selected topics. Study of current research literature in physical chemistry. Emphasis on both formal and informal methods of communication in science. Prerequisite: CHE 324 . Not offered every year.
    (Laboratory Science)
  
  
  
  
  • CHE 485 - Chemical Research (1)

    Research in selected areas of chemistry. Prerequisite: a 300-level course in Chemistry and permission of instructor. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Research. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
  
  
  
  • CHE 511 - Extended Research in Chemistry (1/4)

    Reading coupled with research on a specialized topic. This adjunct course must be taken over four successive terms. Prerequisites: departmental GPA of 3.0 or higher, prior completion of one course in the Department at or above the 200 level, and permission of instructor.
    (CR)
  
  • CHE 512 - Reading and Conversation in Chemistry (1/4)

    Reading and discussion of current articles, historical texts, or general interest books about chemistry. Readings are selected in consultation with the participating students. Course meets weekly for one semester.
    (CR)
  

Civic Engagement

  
  • CIV 280 - Internship (1)

    See Additional Academic Opportunities , All-College Independent Study Courses 280/380. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
  
  
  
  • CIV 380 - Internship (1)

    See Additional Academic Opportunities , All-College Independent Study Courses 280/380. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
  
  
  
  

Classics

  
  • CLA 111 - Big Screen Rome (W) (1)

    Hollywood has long had an interest in using ancient Rome as a lens for understanding contemporary America. Earlier Hollywood films, for example, have explored the rich and famous (Antony and Cleopatra), slave revolts (Spartacus), chariot races (Ben Hur), raucous parties (Fellini’s Satyricon), the rise of Christianity (Quo Vadis), and the fall of empires (The Fall of the Roman Empire). This course will explore Roman history and culture through the words, stories, plays, and histories of eyewitnesses and other ancient authors and then, in viewing five to six films, will ask why the Romans continue to command such interest in the popular imagination and film. Offered in alternate years or every third year.
    (Writing Requirement)
  
  • CLA 216 - Classical Mythology (in English) (1)

    Development of the myth, legend, and folklore of the ancient world, especially their place in ancient Greek and Roman culture, and their survival in the modern world.
    (Humanities)
  
  • CLA 230 - Cultural Crossroads in Antiquity: Egypt, Greece, and Persia (In Chicago) (1)

    Focusing on the history of Egypt from the New Kingdom (ca. 1600 BCE) to the conquest of Alexander the Great (330 BCE) this course will examine the interactions between these empires, kingdoms, and city states of Egypt, Greece, and Persia. In addition to a discussion of the society, economy, and religion of Egypt, we will also examine the ways in which foreign rulers such as the Persian king Cambyses, Alexander the Great, and the Ptolemies used and manipulated ideologies and propaganda to solidify their claims to rule in Egypt, and the Egyptian responses to those foreign rulers. Other topics include contact between Greece and Persia, the Persian Wars, and the impact of the economic ties with Egypt on Greek society. Readings for the course will include Egyptian, Greek, and Persian literary and documentary sources in translation; we will also take advantage of the museum collections of the Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Field Museum to supplement these texts with material culture and art historical evidence. Offered every third year.
    (Humanities)
  
  • CLA 254 - Greek History (1)

    This is an introductory course in Greek history that will cover major social, economic, and political developments from the Archaic period in Greece to the rise of Alexander the Great. Topics to be discussed include the formation of city states, Athenian Democracy, war with Persia, the Peloponnesian War and the coming of the Hellenistic Age. Alternate years.
    (Humanities)
  
  • CLA 255 - Roman History (1)

    This is an introductory course in Roman history that will cover major social, economic, and political developments from the founding of Rome to the reign of Constantine with an emphasis on Rome’s rise to power beginning with the Punic Wars to the reign of Constantine, who transferred the capital of the empire to Constantinople. Topics to be discussed include the civil wars, the creation of empire, Rome’s place in the ancient Mediterranean world, Roman religion and Christianity. Alternate years.
    (Humanities)
  
  • CLA 264 - Women in Antiquity (1)

    Exploration of women’s lives in classical Greece and Rome; women’s role in culture, society, and the economy; their experience of childbearing, marriage, and death; ancient social constructs of the female. Sources include literature, history, medical texts, inscriptions, art, and architecture. This course also counts towards the GSS major Alternate years.
    (Humanities) (Intercultural Literacy Intensive)
 

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