You are in the official 2007-2008 General Catalog
for California State University, Fresno.
You are in the official 2007-2008 General Catalog
for California State University, Fresno.
The Bachelor of Science in Biology is a 120-unit program. Of the total,
51 units are required to satisfy the university's General Education Program
and 22 units are required by the Department of Biology to satisfy the biology
core. The core curriculum is a sequence of courses required for all biology
majors. The core curriculum builds the foundation upon which further learning
in biology will be based. Additional requirements, varying from 22-38 units
depending upon the option choice the student selects, are specified courses
from related fields outside the Department of Biology.
Each biology major must select one of the three option choices to complete
the Biology Bachelor of Science requirements. All of the three option choices
are flexibly designed. As a result, virtually any career goal in the life
sciences and related fields can be accommodated by selecting the most appropriate
option and by judiciously choosing specific courses within the option.
Students should meet with an adviser a minimum of once a semester so the
adviser can review the student's program and progress.
Students planning for graduate and professional schools should be aware
that entrance requirements for those programs will often exceed the minimal
requirements for a Biology B.S., particularly in the ancillary fields of
chemistry, physics, and mathematics. An adviser should be consulted for
specific information on graduate and professional school requirements.
The biology core is required of all majors (see Advising
Notes for all options.)
BIOSC 1A, 1B, 130, 140A-B, 140L, 180 (22 units)
In addition to the core, all majors must complete major and additional requirements
in one of the three options described as follows:
This degree program is intended for students who wish to study organisms, their evolutionary change, and their relationships with their environments. This option has a strong field component that takes full advantage of the outstanding natural environments conveniently located near our campus. Molecular and computer laboratory facilities are also available to study genetic variation among organisms. Students in this program acquire the skills to apply both theory and methods to important questions in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial systems. Students completing this option are well prepared for entry into a wide range of careers in governmental natural resource agencies and consulting firms. They are also well prepared for graduate programs leading to advanced degrees in biology and related natural and applied sciences. Students may obtain an emphasis in marine science by selecting electives offered at the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories. Students must consult an adviser for help in selecting courses appropriate to their interests and career objectives.
Major requirements (42 units)
(Select at least one course from each of lines A-D for a total of 20 units. At least one botany [BOT] or microbiology [MICRO] course must be selected from A-D.)
A. Physiology: BOT 130; MICRO 161; PHYAN 151; MSCI 135
B. Organismal Biology: BOT 131, 142; MICRO 140; ZOOL 148, 150, 152, 171,
174, 177; MSCI 112, 113, 124, 125, 131**
C. Form and Classification: BOT 132, 133, 144; ECOL 174; ZOOL 120, 132,
141
D. Ecological Processes: ECOL 140, 141, 151, 152; MSCI 103, 144**
Additional requirements (22 units)
1. CHEM 3A, 8, and 150 (10 units)
2. MATH 70 or 75 (4 units)
3. MATH 101 or PSYCH 42 (4 units)
4. PHYS 2A (4 units)
General Education requirements (51 units)
Electives and remaining degree requirements (14 units)
(See Degree Requirements); may be used toward
a double major or minor.
Total (120 units) *
________
* See Advising Note 1.
** MSCI courses are offered only at Moss Landing Marine Laboratory.
This degree option is intended for students who wish to study the molecular
mechanisms underlying cellular structure and function and the processes
of organismal development. Molecular biology combines the knowledge and
techniques of genetics, cell biology and biochemistry, forming a basis for
in-depth inquiry into all aspects of biology. The option provides a solid
foundation for graduate and professional studies emphasizing cellular and
molecular processes, including the postbaccalaureate Certificate of Advanced
Studies in Biotechnology offered through this department. Students preparing
for the biotechnology certificate program should select a general microbiology
course with laboratory and a general biochemistry laboratory course among
their elective courses.
Major requirements (40 units)
A. Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics (5 units)
GENET 142 and 143
B. Cell Structure and Development (3-4 units)
Select one from the following list: BOT 133, 137; GENET 172, PHYAN 134
C. Cellular/Molecular Physiology of Organisms/Organ Systems (3-4 units)
Select one from the following list: BOT 142; MICRO 161; PHYAN 140, 160,
165; ZOOL 148
D. Molecular/Cellular Techniques (2-4 units)
Select one from the following list: ECOL 174; GENET 171, 182; PHYAN 160L
Note: A minimum of two laboratory experiences from B, C, and D are required.
E. Seminar (1 unit)
GENET 170
F. Choose one additional course from above or any upper-division biology course, including independent study or research (0-4 units)
Additional requirements (37 units)
1. CHEM 1A-B, 128A-B, 129A, 150 or 155 (21 units)
2. PHYS 2A-B (8 units)
3. MATH 70 or 75 (4 units)
4. MATH 101 or PSYCH 42 (4 units)
General Education requirements (51 units)
Electives and remaining degree requirements (1 unit)
(See Degree Requirements); may be used toward
a double major or minor.)
Total (120 units)*
__________
* See Advising Note 1.
This degree program is designed to help students understand cellular to whole organism function in preparation for medical, clinical, academic or research careers that require physiology as a foundation. The ultimate goal of physiology is to understand, in physical and chemical terms, the mechanisms that operate in living organisms. This option encompasses three major branches of physiology: cellular, systemic, and whole organism. This option offers excellent preprofessional preparation for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, clinical lab science, various careers requiring physiology, and for advanced graduate study. Students planning to enter professional and graduate programs should elect CHEM 1A-B and 128A-B rather than CHEM 3A and 8, and should consult an adviser about additional mathematics requirements as well. Students interested in the Clinical Laboratory Science Program are required to take MICRO 140, PHYAN 160, PHYAN 162, and MICRO 183. They must also take CHEM 105, which is not included in this option. It is recommended that they take MICRO 161 and the chemistry courses for chemistry majors (e.g. CHEM 1A-B rather than CHEM 3A.) Please consult an adviser.
Major requirements (40 units)
A. Select one course from each of these three lines (10-13 units)
1. Anatomy: BOT 133; MICRO 140; PHYAN 130, 134, 135; ZOOL 132, 141
2. Molecular and Cellular Biology: BOT 137; GENET 172; PHYAN 160 and 160L;
ZOOL 148
3. Organismal Physiology: BOT 130; MICRO 161; PHYAN 151
B. Select two additional courses from the following list or from other courses
listed in category A (5-8 units)
GENET 142, MICRO 183; PHYAN 64 or 65, 140, 162, 163, 165, 172
Additional requirements (29-38 units)
1. CHEM 3A or 1A-B, 8 or 128A-B, 109 or 129A, 150 or 155 (13-21 units)
2. PHYS 2A-B (8 units)
3. MATH 70 or 75 (4 units)
4. MATH 101 or PSYCH 42 (4 units)
General Education requirements (51 units)
Electives and remaining degree requirements (0-9 units)
(See Degree Requirements); may be used toward
a double major or minor.
Total (120 units)*
_________
* See Advising Note 1.
The following comments on timing and sequence are intended for full-time
students who plan to complete the B.S. in four years. Students with extensive
extracurricular obligations should make appropriate timing adjustments to
avoid overloads. See your adviser for assistance.
A total of 120 units must be completed for all biology B.S. options. In
addition to courses required for the major, full-time students should add
General Education requirements and electives to bring semester totals to
15-17 units.
During the first two years, resident students should complete some General
Education requirements, BIOSC 1A and 1B, all lower-division additional requirements
for the option they have selected, and any lower-division electives that
might be selected within that option. Students are advised to keep some
General Education coursework for their junior and senior years. BIOSC 130,
140A-B, and statistics should be completed as early as possible and preferably
no later than the end of the third year. The remainder of the third and
fourth years should be spent completing requirements for the selected option,
for General Education, and for the electives in biology and other fields.
BIOSC 180 is a senior requirement and must be taken during the fourth year.
The Minor in Biology may be earned by completing the 22-unit biology
core:
BIOSC 1A, 1B, 130, 140A-B, 140L, 180.
Note: The Biology Minor also requires a 2.0 GPA and 6 upper-division
units in residence.
Teaching Credential - Biology Option
The B.A. in Natural Sciences serves as a waiver program for the Single Subject
Teaching Credential in Science. This degree program is designed for students
who wish to become high school science teachers. The full program is described
in the Natural Science section in this catalog. Students should consult
Dr. David Andrews, the science teaching adviser, at 559.278.5174, for full
details. The program consists of two parts. The core requirements are courses
required of all natural science students and the option provides training
in biology, chemistry, earth science, or physics. Students may also complete
the credential requirements while obtaining a B.S. in biology. The B.A.
in Natural Sciences with the Biology Option is as follows:
Core requirements (36 units)
Biology (12 units)
BIOSC 1A, 1B, 130
Chemistry (10 units)
CHEM 1A, 1B
Geology (7 units)
GEOL 1 and 168
Natural Science (3 units)
NSCI 106
Physical Science (4 units)
PSCI 21
Biology Option (42-44 units)
CHEM 8 or 128A (3 units)
PHYS 2A, 2B (see note 1) (8 units)
PSCI 168 or GEOL 155 (3 units)
MATH 70 or 75 (4 units)
MATH 101 or PSYCH 42 (4 units)
BIOSC 140A, 140B, 140L, 180 (10 units)
MICRO 140 (4 units)
Select one course: BOT 131, 132, 144; ECOL 151, 152; ZOOL 120, 141, 148,
150, 174, 177 (3-4 units)
Select one course: BOT 130; MICRO 161; PHYAN 151, 163 (3-4 units)
General Education requirements (51 units) (See note 2)
Electives and remaining degree requirements (see notes 2,3) (1-3 units)
Total (120 units)
The Biology Department offers a research-intensive Master of Science
in Biology with the opportunity for specialization in several areas of study.
Among these areas are ecologically oriented field studies in aquatic, terrestrial,
and marine environments; molecular, cellular, and developmental biology
of plants, animals, and microbes; physiology of microbes, plants, and animals;
entomology; microbiology; parasitology; botany; zoology; systematics; and
animal behavior. The program also prepares candidates for teaching biological
science disciplines at the secondary and community college education levels.
The master's program provides a strong foundation for those seeking advanced
education at universities offering the research doctorate (Ph.D.) or other
professional degrees. The Biology Department has further informational materials
available on request.
The Master of Science degree program in Biology assumes preparation equivalent to a California State University, Fresno undergraduate major in biology. Students having undergraduate majors in fields other than the biological sciences may enter the program, but may reasonably expect additional requirements to produce equivalent preparation.
A master's candidate interested in pursuing marine science studies must
meet California State University, Fresno Biology Department master's candidate
requirements as well as those of MLML. Such candidates are encouraged to
consult the Biology Department's MLML coordinator for information and to
read the MLML information presented at the end of the graduate information.
There are five steps that must be completed for the Master of Science degree
in Biology:
Normal progress toward the Master of Science degree in Biology requires
that classified graduate standing be achieved in the first semester of graduate
study and that advancement to candidacy be granted the following semester.
Completion of the thesis and all other program requirements will normally
require two additional semesters of study. Procedures for completing these
steps are outlined in the following sections. Students should meet with
the departmental graduate coordinator at the earliest possible date. Students
are personally responsible for ensuring that all graduate degree requirements
have been met in sequence; therefore, each student should read the procedures
thoroughly to be sure all requirements are understood.
Admission to the university is handled through the Graduate Admissions Office of California State University, Fresno. For admission as a postbaccalaureate student to the university, a student must have completed a four-year college program and hold an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum grade point average of 2.5 in the last 60 units.
To be considered for graduate classified standing in biology, the following additional steps are required of students planning to enter the biology graduate program.
Admission to classified graduate standing constitutes official admission
into the graduate program in the Department of Biology and requires the
approval of the Biology Department. Classified standing must be attained
no later than the semester in which a student completes 10 units, including
transfer and postbaccalaureate credit, to be used toward the master's degree;
students should attempt to obtain classified graduate standing as early
as possible in their graduate careers to avoid possible loss of units. Normal
progress toward the degree requires that this be accomplished in the first
semester of graduate work.
Students applying for classified standing should be sure they have submitted
an "Approved Preliminary Program" form to the departmental graduate
coordinator.
Admission to classified graduate standing must be recommended by the graduate
coordinator in consultation with the Graduate Committee of the Biology Department.
To be recommended, the student must demonstrate competency in verbal or
written communication, quantitative analytical skills and disciplinary knowledge.
Competencies may be demonstrated in the following manner:
On recommendation, students will be assigned to one of the following two categories:
Students recommended for classified graduate standing may proceed with
the completion of requirements for advancement to candidacy, the next step
in the graduate program. Students granted conditional classified status
will not have been admitted to the graduate program in biology and must
remedy their deficiencies in order to be recommended for classified standing.
The graduate coordinator will provide further information on how this may
be accomplished.
When any requirements for a change in graduate standing have been completed,
the student must see the graduate coordinator and file appropriate forms
with the graduate division.
Acceptance to classified graduate standing indicates that the
student's academic background and perceived ability are sufficiently high
to merit admission into the biology graduate program. Advancement to
candidacy signifies that the student has developed a coherent program
of study for the Master of Science degree that meets with the approval of
the Biology Department. Advancement to candidacy requires passing the Graduate
Student Writing Requirement, the establishment of the Thesis Committee,
identification of the thesis topic, and the approval of all coursework that
must fit within the following framework:
Courses in 200-series (17 units)
Electives (May be 100- or 200-series) (9 units)
Thesis (BIOL 299) (4 units)
Total (30 units)
No less than 18 units of the approved coursework must be in the biological
sciences. Nine units must be completed prior to advancement to candidacy.
The Biology Department also requires that at least 10 units of approved
coursework be completed after advancement to candidacy.
Units completed during the semester that advancement is achieved will
be considered to have been completed after advancement to candidacy. Before
students may advance to candidacy, they must satisfactorily complete the
Biology Department Graduate Student Writing Requirement. Students must submit
a formal paper demonstrating writing skill at the graduate level. This graduate-level
paper may be a research proposal, a literature review in their field, a
paper from a graduate directed research project, or another paper. Detailed
writing requirement regulations are available from the departmental graduate
coordinator. Normal degree progress requires that advancement to candidacy
be achieved in the semester following admission to classified standing.
A student must be advanced to candidacy, possess a GPA of 3.0 or better,
and file a Thesis Committee Assignment Form before enrolling in thesis (BIOL
299).
A complete list of the steps required for advancement to candidacy is available
from the departmental graduate coordinator.
The Master of Science in Biology requires completion of a research thesis
(BIOL 299). The thesis must show originality, appropriate organization,
clarity of purpose, critical analysis, and accuracy and completeness of
documentation where needed. Critical and independent thinking are required.
The finished thesis must meet standards appropriate for publication in the
scholarly journals of the field. A colloquium is required of all students
at least seven days prior to the last day of instruction of the spring or
fall semester, or by June 30 of the summer session. Additional information
and regulations on the colloquium and on thesis completion are available
from the department's graduate coordinator.
In addition to the above requirements, in order to receive the Master of
Science in Biology the student must:
This degree program to be offered as an interdepartmental degree in cooperation
with Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML) provides the opportunity for
students to acquire a practical and theoretical education in the marine
sciences to prepare them for careers as marine specialists, scientists,
and teachers. The program at Moss Landing provides extensive field and laboratory
work for advanced study in the marine sciences, which is not duplicated
on individual CSU campuses.
The Master of Science in Marine Science degree program is administered through
MLML and a consortium campus with emphasis on biology, geology, or other
department, depending on the choice of the student. The prospective student
must meet the entrance requirements for the home campus department and will
be accepted into classified or conditionally classified status by normal
procedures at that campus (see previous information for biology procedures
summary). Conditionally classified students must become classified by home
campus procedures. MLML may impose additional requirements for classification.
The graduate writing requirement will be fulfilled according to the regulations
set by the host campus, and must be met prior to advancement to candidacy.
Please contact the Biology Department graduate coordinator for details.
The Thesis Committee will be composed of at least three members, including
one faculty member from MLML (who is ordinarily the thesis adviser) and,
at the discretion of the home campus, a representative of that campus. The
other member or members of the Thesis Committee may be from MLML, the home
campus, or elsewhere with the approval of the thesis adviser.
Additional MLML Degree Requirements Including Coursework. A student
becomes eligible for the master's degree in marine science after the following
requirements have been satisfied:
Courses in 100-series (requires any three of the following five courses:
MSCI 103, MSCI 141, MSCI 142, MSCI 143, MSCI 144) (12 units)
Courses in 200-series (including 2 units of MSCI 285T and 4 units of MSCI
299) (15 units)
Electives (course[s] in the 100- and/or 200-series) approved by Thesis Committee
(3 units)
Total (30 units)
Note: Quantitative Marine Science, MSCI 104, does not count toward
the degree.
Biology Department upper-division course numbers provide information
on course level. Courses with higher numbers have more prerequisites. Courses
with numbers less than 120 are not intended for use on biology majors. Numbers
in the range 120 to 149 are third year courses requiring only lower-division
prerequisites; 150 to 169 courses require some part of the upper-division
core as prerequisite; and course numbers 170 or greater are more specialized
fourth year courses.
Biology
Courses