Biology (BI) Courses | Chaminade University

Course Descriptions

BIOLOGY (BI)

BI-100 First Year Science Seminar: Science, Society and the Biosphere (1)

Introductory course required for incoming first year students who are planning to major in biology or biochemistry. This course engages the “big questions” in biomedicine, biotechnology, ecology and environmental biology that drive today’s scientists and health practitioners. The course illustrates the diverse areas of professional practice in biomedical practice, research and industry for which the biology and biochemistry majors are preparative.
Co-requisite: BI-215/L (recommended)

BI-101 General Biology I (3)

Overview of basic biological principles, human concerns of overpopulation, environmental pollution, genetic engineering.
Co-requisite: BI-101L

BI-101L General Biology I Lab (1)

One three-hour laboratory period per week to accompany BI-101 and BI-102. Laboratory work and field trips related to lecture topics.
Corequisite: BI-101

BI-102 General Biology II (3)

Overview of basic biological principles, human concerns of overpopulation, environmental pollution, genetic engineering.
Co-requisite: BI-102L

BI-102L General Biology II Lab (1)

One three-hour laboratory period per week to accompany BI-101 and BI-102. Laboratory work and field trips related to lecture topics.
Corequisite: BI-102

BI-103 Botany (3)

Distribution, identification, structure, use and physiology of plants with special attention to plants of Hawaii. Recommended for non-science majors.
Co-requisite: BI-103L

BI-103L Botany Laboratory (1)

Distribution, identification, structure, use and physiology of plants with special attention to plants of Hawaii. Recommended for non-science majors laboratory.
Co-requisite: BI-103

BI-104 Digital Biology (1)

Introduction to ‘big data’, data science, visualization and analytics in the areas of biomedicine, social sciences and the natural and built environments. Required course for Biology and Environmental majors.

BI-105 Human Biology (3)

A general introduction to human structure, functions, genetics, evolution, ecology and environmental interactions. The aim is to use scientific reasoning to make informed decisions about topics related to human biology. The human organism is examined from the basic cellular level and genetics, through organ systems, to interactions with the outside world. Discussion also covers pertinent health topics.

BI-105L Human Biology Laboratory (1)

Human Biology is a lab science course that introduces students to the human organism and the impact of the modern world and medicinal discoveries on humans. The course covers anatomy, nutrition, immunity, reproduction, development, genetics, and the relationship between humans and their environment.

BI-106 Science, Careers and Society (1)

Introduces students to how science shapes our communities, environments, and future opportunities. Guest speakers from biology, biomedicine, environmental studies, environmental science, and marine affairs share diverse career pathways and real-world applications of scientific knowledge.

BI-110 People and Nature (3)

Addresses biological, ecological and public health questions which may have social, ethical, religious, or political implications.
Co-requisite: BI-110L

BI-110L People and Nature Laboratory (1)

Laboratory work such as testing for water quality, field trips to aquaculture farms, estuaries, and other field work locations.
Co-requisite: BI-110

BI-115 Introduction to Marine Biology (3)

Life in various marine habitats studied with regard to its relationship to the ocean and to man. Various zones in the ocean and its inhabitants, the impact of man on the marine environment, and food sources from the sea will be discussed.
Co-requisite: BI-115L

BI-115L Introduction to Marine Biology Laboratory (1)
Classification, anatomy, and physiology of live and preserved marine animals. Field trips are included.
Co-requisite: BI-115

BI-131 Human Nutrition (3)

An introduction to basic concepts and current research in nutrition. The nature and roles of nutrients, nutrient requirements throughout the human life cycle, diseases resulting from over and under nutrition, food safety, and food sources.
Co-requisite: BI-131L

BI-131L Human Nutrition Laboratory (1)

One three-hour laboratory period per week to accompany BI-131. Survey of methodology and instrumentation involved in the analysis and evaluation of foods, their nutritional value, and diets.
Co-requisite: BI-131

BI-151 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (3)

This course is an introduction to the human anatomy and physiological systems. Necessary life functions and survival needs will be examined, followed by an orientation of the language of anatomy. Thorough analyses of intracellular function, tissue types, the integumentary system, skeletal tissue and the human skeleton, joints, muscle tissue and the muscular system, the fundamentals of nervous tissue, the nervous system, and the endocrine system will follow. Required course for nursing majors. Non-nursing students (e.g. pre-health professions students) may take this course subject to availability of seats in a separate course section than nursing majors.
Co-requisites: BI-151L, NUR majors.

BI-151L Human Anatomy and Physiology I Laboratory (1)

This laboratory course accompanies the lecture and covers the structure and function of the human body, which includes study and experimentation regarding gross anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, and homeostatic relationships with regards to the following areas: body orientation, chemistry, cells, tissues, integumentary system, bone tissue, skeletal system, joints, muscular tissue, muscular system, nervous tissue, spinal cord and nerves, brain, and cranial nerves. Required course for nursing majors. Non-nursing students (e.g. pre-health professions students) may take this course subject to availability of seats in a separate course section than nursing majors.
Co-requisites: BI-151, NUR majors.

BI-152 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (3)

This course is focused on the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis. Topics include the study of the autonomic nervous system, blood, cardiovascular system including lymphatic system, immune system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, endocrine system, and male and female reproductive systems. Emphasis is placed on the integration of systems as they relate to normal health. Required course for nursing majors. Non-nursing students (e.g. pre-health professions students) may take this course subject to availability of seats in a separate course section than nursing majors.
Co-requisites: BI-152L, NUR majors.

BI-152L Human Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory II (1)

This laboratory course accompanies the lecture and focuses on the study of the structure and function of the human body which includes examination and experimentation regarding gross anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, and homeostatic relationships with regards to the following areas: autonomic nervous, general & special senses, endocrine, blood, lymphatic & immune, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, fluids, electrolytes, acid/base homeostasis, reproductive, development and heredity. Required course for nursing majors. Non-nursing students (e.g. pre-health professions students) may take this course subject to availability of seats in a separate course section than nursing majors.
Co-requisites: BI-152, NUR majors.

BI-162 General Microbiology (3)
An introduction to microbiology, with special emphasis on human health. Topics covered include basic metabolism and microbial growth, sterilization and disinfection, host-microorganism interactions, the immune response, and a survey of pathogenic microorganisms and their mode of action.
Co-requisites: BI-162L

BI-162L General Microbiology Laboratory (1)
Laboratory course to accompany BI-162. Examination, cultivation, and identification of microorganisms pertinent to human health. Techniques covered include asepsis, isolation, culturing, and identification of microorganisms. Materials intensive fee applies.

BI-210L Biotechniques Laboratory – DNA/RNA Protein (1)

Introduction to Biological Techniques. Techniques used in the fields of molecular and cellular biology are covered, including DNA, RNA and protein purification and manipulation. One three hour period per week. Materials intensive fee applies.

BI-214 Diversity of Life I: Life on Earth (3)

This course provides an exciting introduction to the diversity of life on Earth, from microscopic organisms to large and complex life forms. Students explore how living beings are related through evolution, learning to interpret phylogenetic relationships and recognize the shared ancestry that connects all forms of life. Emphasis is placed on how organisms have adapted structurally, physiologically, and behaviorally to thrive in a wide range of environments, fostering appreciation for biological complexity and the processes that shape it.
Co-requisite: BI-106

BI-214L Diversity of Life I: Life on Earth Lab (1)

This lab provides a hands-on investigation of the diversity of life on Earth. Students use microscopes, specimens, and observational techniques to examine major groups of organisms and their distinguishing characteristics. Emphasis is placed on recognizing evolutionary relationships, interpreting basic phylogenetic patterns, and identifying structural adaptations that enable organisms to thrive in diverse environments. The lab develops foundational skills in biological observation, scientific documentation, and the study of biodiversity.
Co-requisite: BI-106

BI-215 Diversity of Life II: Structures of Life (3)

Introduction to animal and plant diversity, with emphasis on form and function, mechanisms of regulation in biological systems, and how organisms exchange materials and energy with their environment.
Prerequisites: BI-214/L
Co-requisite: BI-215L

BI-215L Diversity of Life II: Structures of Life Laboratory (1)

A hands-on introduction to form and function across the tree of life. Through dissection, microscopy, and specimen-based observation, students examine how anatomical structures support physiological function in representative organisms and explore the fundamentals of anatomy and physiology.
Prerequisites: BI-214/L
Co-requisite: BI-215

BI-216 Cellular and Molecular Biology (3)

Introduction to the cell and molecular biology of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, with particular reference to the relationships between structure and functions. Cell cycle and mitosis. Organization of cells, roles of cell signaling and extracellular environment in establishing structures in animals and plants.
Prerequisites: BI-215/L
Co-requisite: BI-216L

BI-216L Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory (1)

A hands-on introduction to the structure and function of cells and the molecular basis of life. Through microscopy, cell culture, and core molecular techniques, students investigate cellular organization, biomolecules, and the flow of genetic information from DNA to protein.
Prerequisites: BI-215/L
Co-requisite: BI-216

BI-230 Botany (3)

Botany studies plant structure, function, diversity, and evolution, emphasizing their essential role in ecological systems and human societies. Topics include plant anatomy and morphology, water and nutrient transport, photosynthesis and carbon allocation, growth, reproduction, systematics, and plant–environment interactions. Special focus is placed on plant responses to climate change, carbon cycling, crop productivity, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem resilience.
Prerequisites: BI-214/L
Co-requisite: BI-230L

BI-230L Botany Laboratory (1)

Students investigate links between plant form and function and sustainability challenges such as drought tolerance, nutrient limitation, invasive species, and carbon sequestration, culminating in applied analyses connecting plant biology to environmental management and sustainability strategies.
Prerequisites: BI-214/L
Co-requisite: BI-230

BI-240 Kumulipo: Origins & Organization of Life (3)

Student(s) will learn traditional Hawaiian protocol and practice through oli (chants and prayers), hana noʻeau (crafts and specialties), and various moʻolelo (stories) of the Hawaiʻi through researching and understanding the genealogy of Hawaiʻi. This will be accomplished through evaluating the Kumulipo and other genealogical stories from different islands in Hawaiʻi and making comparisons to other cultures and migrational patterns of people and other species across the pacific.

BI-250 Microbiology and Cell Biology for Nurses (3)

This course will include the major topics of cell biology and microbiology that are foundational for an understanding of normal and pathological cellular processes. Cell biology topics will include the study of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structures and functions. Microbiology topics will cover the main classes of microorganisms/infectious agents (viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites), how they are identified, their growth requirements, the role of the immune system in controlling infections and drug strategies that combat these infections.
Prerequisites: BI-152/L and NUR major

BI-250L Microbiology and Cell Biology for Nurses Laboratory (1)

Laboratory section to accompany BI-250. Restricted to students accepted in the CUH Nursing Major. Offered in the spring semester.
Prerequisites: BI-152/L and NUR major

English 102 and Communication 101 are prerequisites for all upper division courses.

BI-300 Science Writing I - Research Literature and Proposals (1)

Intensive introduction to science writing. Overview of the purpose of scientific and medical publications, peer review, and criteria for inclusion in the literature. Students will focus upon the development of written arguments, discussion of data, and interpretation/analysis. Course will culminate in production and review of a grant proposal, clinical care plan, clinical trial proposal, environmental impact plan, resource management proposal, etc., in an area aligned with the student’s career aspirations.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L or ENV-201/L or permission of instructor

BI-302 Science Writing – Bioethics and Professional Conduct (1)

Continuation of BI-300. Students will focus upon contemporary ethical issues in science and medicine including funding policies, ethics and conduct of research and medicine. Course will culminate in writing of an authoritative review paper on an issue of interest selected by the student.
Prerequisites: BI-216/L, BI-300 or permission of instructor

BI-304 Clinical Nutrition (3)

Nursing required course. Study of nutrients and their respective functions, food sources, and physiological needs. Dietary guidance and nutritional requirements through the lifespan are explored. Role of nutrition in prevention of, and intervention in, chronic diseases. .
Prerequisites: BI-152/L, BI-162/L, CH-254/L, NUR-202, NUR-203 and Nursing major.

BI-305 Genetics (3)

Nursing required course. Basic concepts in genetics and genomics. Current research, new ways to diagnose genetic conditions and genetic technologies that provide understanding of the genetic component to common chronic diseases are explored. Topics include family history, risk assessment, interventions, genetic testing and counseling, ethical and social issues and use of genetics and genomics to improve clinical practice.
Prerequisites: BI-216

BI-307 Molecular Biology I Genes and Genetics (3)

Life cycles and meiosis. Mendelian inheritance. Population genetics. Chromosomal and molecular basis of inheritance. Flow of genetic information. Determining structure and function of genes. Mutation and DNA repair systems. Genetic basis of disease, DNA technology, typing and population genetics. Introduction to genomics and epigenetics.
Prerequisites: BI-216/L
Co-requisite: BI-307L

BI-307L Genetics Laboratory (1)

A hands-on introduction to the principles of inheritance and genetic analysis. Through model-organism crosses, DNA extraction, and molecular genotyping, students examine patterns of inheritance, gene mapping, and the analysis of genetic variation.
Prerequisites: BI-216/L
Co-requisite: BI-307

BI-308 Genomics and Bioinformatics (3)

Components and architecture of genomes. Linkage, physical mapping, and DNA sequencing. Comparing genomes of different species. Role of gene expression and gene networks in differentiation and morphogenesis. Role of DNA methylation and chromatin remodeling in regulation of genes. Role of regulatory RNAs in gene expression.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L
Co-requisite: BI-308L

BI-308L Genomics and Bioinformatics Laboratory (1)

A computer-based introduction to bioinformatics and the analysis of genomes and large biological datasets. Students learn foundational bioinformatics tools and methods — sequence alignment, database searching, and the handling of high-throughput sequencing data — and apply them to assemble and annotate sequences, construct genetic and physical maps, compare genomes across species, and analyze gene expression and epigenetic regulation.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L
Co-requisite: BI-308

BI-310 Evolutionary Biology (3)

All organisms on earth seem to share a common ancestry, and to some extent their evolution has been governed by a common set of principles. The science of evolutionary biology is presented in the context of a broader history of ideas in science. Considers explanations for pattern of diversity and the apparent good fit of organisms to the environment. Topics include the diversity of life, past and present, the genetics and developmental basis of evolutionary change, processes at the population level, evolution by natural selection, neutral theory, modes of speciation, long-term trends in evolution, origin of humans.
Prerequisites: BI-308/L

BI-311 Biostatistics (3)

Lecture course devoted to rigorous grounding biological statistics, and in the application of statistical models to global health problems. Biostatistics is a lecture and hands-on course designed to provide students with the opportunity to develop statistical reasoning skills appropriate to analyze and implement biological experiments. Exemplars and case studies will be primarily derived from the public health field. Topics include principles of experimental design, inference, sampling and variables, probability distributions, data categories and assumptions of parametric statistics, risk analysis, repeated measures, goodness of fit and contingency table analyses, and the general linear model.
Prerequisites: BI-216/L

BI-312 Epidemiology (3)

Population based analysis of health and disease focusing on an understanding cause, risk and health determinants in populations and communities. This course covers epidemiologic concepts (including measures of association, bias, confounding, interaction and determination of risk). Epidemiological methodology, including study design and study types, will be covered.
Prerequisites: BI-216 or permission of instructor

BI-320 Developmental Biology (3)

Genetic control and patterning of organisms. Cellular and molecular processes that govern the production of an embryo and the patterning of individual tissues and organs in a manner that is consistent with their physiological functionality. The effect of exogenous stimuli on body patterning in both physiological and pathophysiological situations will be addressed.
Prerequisites: BI-216/L, BI-307/L

BI-320L Developmental Biology Laboratory (1)

BI-321 Advanced Human and Comparative Anatomy (3)

Advanced survey of human gross anatomy and adaptation is used to explore comparative aspects of the developmental biology and adaptations of other vertebrate species.
Prerequisites: BI-216/L
Co-requisite: BI-321L

BI-321L Advanced Human and Comparative Anatomy laboratory (1)

One three-hour laboratory period per week to accompany BI-321. Simulated gross anatomy of the human and laboratory dissections of organisms including lamprey, dogfish, and cat. Opportunities to participate in human gross anatomical systems review at the Willed Body Program (John A. Burns’ School of Medicine human cadaver laboratory) are provided.
Prerequisites: BI-216/L
Co-requisite: BI-321

BI-330 Immunology (3)

Immunology offers a comprehensive exploration of the immune system. Covering 14 key topics identified by the American Association for Immunologists, students will delve into innate and adaptive immunity, antigen recognition, lymphocyte development, immune response regulation, and immune system disorders. The course also addresses immunological techniques, transplantation, tumor immunology, and immune interactions with pathogens and vaccines. With an emphasis on real-world application, students will develop a thorough understanding of immunological principles, preparing them for careers in medicine, research, and related fields. Fulfills the major elective requirement for biology majors.
Prerequisite: Senior standing

BI-340 Hawaiian Wildlife, Threat & Preservation (3)

This course explores the unique wildlife of Hawaiʻi and the ecological processes that have shaped one of the most distinctive biotas on Earth. Students examine the evolution, diversity, and ecological roles of native Hawaiian plants and animals while learning how geographic isolation led to remarkable patterns of endemism. The course also investigates the major threats facing Hawaiian wildlife today — including habitat loss, invasive species, climate change, and emerging diseases — and examines the scientific and policy approaches used to protect and restore native species and ecosystems.
Prerequisites: BI-214/L
Co-requisite: BI-340L

BI-340L Hawaiian Wildlife, Threat & Preservation Laboratory (1)

This laboratory complements the lecture by providing hands-on investigation of Hawaiʻi's native wildlife and the challenges facing island ecosystems. Students develop practical skills in wildlife observation, species identification, ecological monitoring, and basic field research methods used in conservation biology. Emphasis is placed on understanding how scientists assess threats to biodiversity and apply research to the preservation and restoration of Hawaiʻi's unique wildlife and ecosystems.
Prerequisites: BI-214/L
Co-requisite: BI-340

BI-360 Biochemistry I (3)

This is the first part of a year-long course where the vast knowledge of biochemistry is filtered through a rational perspective guided by general chemical and biological principles. Following a survey and review of common classes of biologically significant metabolites such as peptides, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, as well as equally important smaller molecules, the emphasis is shifted to biological thermodynamics and enzyme mechanisms. During the latter part of the course the broad spectrum of principles studies is utilized to cover individual metabolic pathways in detail.
Prerequisites: CH-324/L
Co-requisite: BI-360L

BI-360L Biochemistry I Laboratory (1)

Students gain experience in the isolation, purification, identification, and quantification of biologically important molecules. Spectroscopic, chromatographic, as well as chemical modification techniques are used in identifying peptides and proteins. Enzyme kinetic studies are carried out for quantification purposes.
Prerequisites: CH-324/L
Co-requisite: BI-360

BI-370 Cell and Molecular Biology for Data Scientists (3)

A study of the highly organized molecular and biochemical systems of the fundamental units of all organisms, with an emphasis on structure and function.
Prerequisites: CH-324/L
Co-requisite: BI-370L

BI-370L Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory for Data Scientists (1)

Laboratory emphasizes experiments and exercises using molecular techniques currently in practice in cell biology.
Co-requisite: BI-370

BI-387 Internship or Field Experience (1-3)

Professional Internship. Career development seminar course plus on-or off-campus internship placements. 45 hours internship required per credit. May be repeated for credit, up to 6 credits may be applied to major.
Prerequisites: JR or SR standing, BI-215/L (Biology majors) or ENV-201/L (ENV majors)

BI-388 Magic and Medicine (3)

Designed to give students an interdisciplinary experience, this course will explore historical and contemporary theories and practice of medicine, examining in parallel ancient, non-Western and Western views of health, disease and healing. Studies will include inter-relationship between ancient religions and medicine (e.g. shamanism, magico-medical healing) and the worldwide development of various cultural medical systems (CMS) and epistemologies. Students will journey through time studying the evolution of medical thought and practice across cultures in the last several thousand years as well as the contemporary resurgence of CMS. Cross listed with RE-388.

BI-400 Invertebrate Biology (3)

Dives into the spectacular diversity of animals that make up over 95% of life on Earth. From corals and clams to insects and octopuses, students explore how invertebrates are built, how they function, and how they shape the ecosystems we depend on. Lecture introduces evolutionary relationships, adaptations, and ecological importance.
Prerequisites: BI-214/L
Co-requisite: BI-400L

BI-400L Invertebrate Biology Laboratory (1)

This laboratory emphasizes hands-on discovery through microscopy, dissection, identification, and (when possible) field-based observation. This course is ideal for students interested in marine biology, conservation, ecology, or the health professions, and for anyone curious about the remarkable organisms that keep our planet running.
Prerequisites: BI-214/L
Co-requisite: BI-400

BI-402 Our Place in the Kumulipo (3)

This course will introduce students to the early Hawaiian world views and religion to better understand modern day issues and ethical approaches to these problems. It focuses on several foundational schools of science such as Geography, Ecology, Anthropology, Hawaiian Studies, and Policy making to better inform students on their assigned area of research throughout the course. Questions such as "What is a native Hawaiian?", "Who should be in charge managing Hawaii?", and "Can the islands of Hawaii be restored back to its original state ethically?" are all questions students will be asked while simultaneously filtering out what is myth, research bias, and fact. By the end of the course students will be able to better recognize research biases in historical accounts, understand the importance of historical background in research, and create proposals in research and field studies ethically and unbiased. Cross-listed with ENV-402.

BI-410 Advanced Human Physiology I Metabolism and Nutrition (3)

Physiology of energetic and metabolic processes and endocrine control of metabolism in both healthy and disease states. Biochemistry of metabolism and the role of macro- and micronutrients in maintenance of homeostasis are examined.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L

BI-410L Advanced Human Physiology I Laboratory Metabolism and Nutrition (1)

Laboratory .
Prerequisites: BI-307/L
Co-requisite: BI-410

BI-411 Advanced Human Physiology II – Neurophysiology (3)

Fundamentals of neurophysiology from the cellular to the system levels. Discussion of neuroanatomy followed by the ionic and pharmacological basis of nerve and synaptic function. Specialized neuronal geometries and synaptic circuitries associated with a variety of sensory, motor and central systems. The laboratory covers extracellular and intracellular techniques in neurophysiology as well as sectioning and immunocytochemistry.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L
Co-requisites: BI-411L (BI-410/L recommended)

BI-411L Advanced Human Physiology II Laboratory – Neurophysiology (1)

This laboratory course is designed as a complementary class to be taken at the same time as the BI411 lecture course: Advanced Human Physiology II, Neurophysiology. It explores the fundamentals of neurophysiology from the cellular to the system levels; with an emphasis on the discussion of contemporary experimental techniques used to answer Neuroscience experimental questions. The laboratory covers extracellular and intracellular techniques in neurophysiology as well as sectioning and immunocytochemistry. A major component of this course is to produce a group experimental project aligned with a neuroscience interest. This project involves implementing the scientific process by the design, execution and analysis (including biostatistics) of a series of experiments. This culminates in the production of an individually written ‘peer reviewed scientific paper’ style document, that presents their own framework, results and their deliberations on their group project.
Prerequisites: BI-411
Co-requisites: BI-411 (BI-410/L recommended)

BI-420 Systems Biology (3)

This course will focus on the frontiers of our understanding of the multi-level networks that underlie biological systems. Lecture course reviewing the key concepts of the systems biology approach to ecological, organismal and cellular systems. Contribution of cornerstone technologies such as genomics, bioinformatics, proteomics and metabolomics will be reviewed, along with their computational foundations.
Prerequisites: BC-308/L or BI-308/L or BI-311 (recommended)

BI-430 Microbiology (3)

Overview of clinically important pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms, principles and practice of microbiology and the complexity of the human immune response to infection is emphasized.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L
Co-requisites: BI-430L

BI-430L Microbiology Laboratory (1)

BI-435 Cancer Biology (3)

This course provides students with knowledge of the fundamental principles of the molecular and cellular biology of cancer cells. Lectures and demonstrations explain the role of growth factors, oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, angiogenesis, and signal transduction mechanisms in tumor formation. Discussion of aspects of cancer epidemiology, preventions, and principles of drug action in cancer management is a part of the course.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L

BI-450 Science Technology and Social Entrepreneurship (3)

Lecture course covering contemporary issues, the underlying sciences and career opportunities in biotechnology and scientific entrepreneurship across business and social sectors. Project based course. Offered in alternate years, spring semester.
Prerequisites: BC-216 or BI-216 or ENV-201/L or BU-313 or ENT-301 or permission of instructor

BI-471 Ecology (3)

Environmental-biological interrelations. Concepts of populations, communities, ecosystems, and conservation of resources by man. Concurrent registration in BI-471 required.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L (BI majors) or ENV-201/L (ENV majors)

BI-471L Ecology Laboratory (1)

This course accompanies the Ecology BI-471 lecture section. Students in this course will learn and use the techniques of molecular biology and molecular taxonomy to characterize the micobiomes found in water samples from Hawaii’s freshwater and marine ecosystems. They will then search the peer-reviewed literature to see if the microbiomes in their water samples are indicative of healthy or stressed aquatic ecosystems.
Prerequisites for Biology majors: BI-307/L
Prerequisites for ENV majors: ENV-201/L
Corequisite: BI-471

BI-480 Special Topics (1 to 3)

Selected topics in biology. Lecture or seminar topic in selected area of contemporary biology. May be repeated.

BI/RE/PH-488 Magic Science and Belief: The Global Quest for Health (3)

Designed to give students an interdisciplinary experience, this course will explore historical and contemporary theories and practice of medicine, examining in parallel ancient, modern, non-Western and Western views of health, disease and healing. Prerequisite: senior standing or permission of instructor. This course fulfills the General Education Capstone requirement.
Prerequisites: Senior standing

BI-493 Research I: Science Writing and Proposal (1 )

Introduction to research and scientific writing through development of a faculty-mentored research proposal. Scientific writing techniques are covered in weekly classes. Students learn to conduct literature reviews, identify knowledge gaps, formulate research questions, and design experimental approaches. Students identify a faculty mentor and develop proposals for research to be implemented in Research II and/or III classes or through capstone/internship experiences.
Prerequisites: BI-307/L

BI-494 Research II: Research Methods & Hypothesis (3)

Initiation of faculty-mentored research projects with emphasis on hypothesis testing, experimental design, and data collection. Students execute their proposed research, applying appropriate laboratory techniques and methodologies while maintaining rigorous documentation practices. Includes weekly research seminar and faculty-mentored research.
Prerequisites: BI-493

BI-495 Research III: Data & Dissemination (3)

Weekly seminar course accompanying research project (approximately 10 hours per week) performed in Chaminade or other research laboratory under supervision of a practicing research scientist.
Prerequisites: BI-494

BI-499 Research II: Honors Research (3)

Second semester of research project (approximately 10 hours per week) performed in Chaminade or other research laboratory under supervision of a practicing research scientist.
Prerequisites: BI-495