This course introduces students to a common suite of ecological field methods and data management and analysis, and gives them the opportunity to practice the process of science by carrying out independent/small group ecological research projects.

Directed work experience in the biological sciences. Minimum requirements are that the students maintain a detailed journal and complete a term paper. Requires at least 125 hours of directed experience. 

Individual research is conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Topic and format must be approved by the Department Chairperson and Dean.

Individual research is conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Topic and format must be approved by the Department Chairperson and Dean.

Histology is the study of the microscopic structure of the major tissues and organs of the vertebrate body. In this course students explore the relationship between structure and function of these tissues and organs.

This course introduces students to core concepts and principles in forest ecology in the context of changing environments in response to natural and anthropogenic disturbances in southwestern Colorado forests.  Labs are inquiry-based and focus on on three core themes: 1) winter ecology; 2) dendrochronology; and 3) spring phenology. 

This class reviews the causes of plant species decline, biological factors associated with small populations, current practices of population monitoring and management for both in-situ  and ex-situ  conservation, and the possibility for reintroduction. These topics are investigated through a review of the primary literature, datasets, and meetings with conservation professionals.

Parasitology has a long history in the sciences and is at the foundation of human and veterinary medicine.  This course focuses on modern parasitology, including fundamentals of parasite biodiversity, taxonomy, and lifecycles.  The course also reviews important topics including: wildlife and agricultural diseases, pathogen virulence, drug resistance, emerging diseases, and host-parasite interactions at an evolutionary and molecular level.

This course will review key concepts in evolutionary theory and will survey the diversity of life by discussing key innovations of plants, animals, and fungi within the context of their evolutionary history.

The course will examine the zoology (i.e., characteristics, origin, evolution, zoogeography, systematics, ecology, behavior, physiology and conservation) of mammals (Class Mammalia). These topics will be covered by emphasizing both classical (or historical studies) and recent (or contemporary) research. Laboratory work will involve both field identification of mammals from field trips and laboratory work concerning taxonomic and morphological studies.