PBIO 1090 - Americans and their Forests: Ecology, Conservation and History

• Students will be able to explain basic terminology, concepts and methods of plant ecology, landscape/ecosystem dynamics, and community structure using forest communities of North America as examples.
• Students will be able to apply scientific methods of inquiry appropriate to landscape and ecosystem dynamics to gather and analyze data and draw evidence¿based conclusions about forest community structure in Ohio.
• Students will be able to evaluate evidence-based scientific arguments about forest conservation and management in a logical fashion and distinguish between scientific and non¿scientific evidence and explanations.
• Students will be able to communicate how observations of plant community dynamics (specifically the structure and dynamics of forest communities) are controlled by human activity in forests and how they have shaped human social and economic development.

PBIO 1140 - Foundations of Plant Biology

• Students will be able to explain basic terminology, concepts, and methods in plant cell structure and function, plant movements, photosynthesis, respiration, plant reproduction, genetics, and gene expression.
• Students will be able to apply scientific methods of inquiry appropriate to the fundamentals of plant biology to gather and analyze data and draw evidence-based conclusions in a process about how science is done.
• Students will be able to evaluate evidence-based scientific arguments that are central to the foundations of plant biology in a logical fashion and distinguish between scientific and non-scientific evidence and explanations.
• Student will be able to communicate how scientific findings in the field of plant biology contribute to the modern world.
• Students will be able to demonstrate the use of key scientific principles by describing the process of science and how it is used to gain knowledge to develop better products for human use.
• Students will be able to critically state, describe, and consider issues or problems experienced in laboratory settings.
• Students will be able to use and observe numerous plants and trees grown on campus to identify and interpret different plant behaviors to develop a comprehensive analysis that can elucidate the mechanical mechanisms underpinning plant growth.
• Students will be able to systematically and methodically analyze assumptions through designing critical experiments and carefully evaluating expected results when addressing challenging questions in plant biology.
• Students will be able to state the advance of plant biology in biotechnology in a way that is thoughtful, recognizes complexities, and acknowledges limitations.
• Students will be able to state conclusions and related outcomes (consequences and implications) logically and in a priority order in laboratory settings.

PBIO 1150 - Plant Structure and Development

• Students will be able to explain basic terminology, concepts, and methods as they pertain to the development of morphology and anatomy of plants and how they contribute to modern plant science.
• Students will be able to apply scientific methods of inquiry appropriate to plant science to use microscopes and other scientific equipment to gather and analyze data and draw evidence¿based conclusions about plant structures and their development.
• Students will be able to evaluate evidence-based scientific arguments that are central to plant science in a logical fashion and distinguish between scientific and non¿scientific evidence and explanations for the diversity of plants
• Student will be able to communicate how scientific findings contribute to our understanding of plant diversity, structure, and development, and the importance of plants in the modern world.

PBIO 2010 - Plant Biology for Gardeners

• Students will be able to describe the science behind biological processes underlying evolutionary diversification, plant growth, plant-environment interactions, and reproduction, and how this knowledge can be applied to improve personal and commercial far
• Students will be able to name and describe key structures of plants and their functions, and will understand the mechanics of artificial selection, plant breeding and biotechnology to create new cultivars.
• Students will be able to evaluate evidence to discern between scientific and non-scientific arguments on impacts and costs to society concerning different horticultural and agricultural practices, and issues surrounding sustainability and biotechnology.
• Students will be able to apply scientific methods in analyzing particular plants, horticultural or agricultural practices, scientific manipulations to draw conclusions on how those components contribute to development in farming and gardening practices
• Students will be able to apply fundamentals of home farming and gardening in their personal lives.
• Students will be able to describe how our expanding scientific knowledge of plant biology contributes to our personal experience, improved horticultural and agricultural practices, and to human existence generally.

PBIO 2010L - Plant Biology for Gardeners Lab

• Acquire practical skills in plant propagation, garden maintenance, and weeds.
• Develop a practical understanding of seed germination and plant vigor through experimentation.
• Gain knowledge of economic and horticultural plant diversity.
• Learn plant structures, tissues and functions.
• Understand metabolic processes and reproduction of plants.

PBIO 2050 - Biotechnology: From the Lab to Daily Life

• Students will be able to explain basic terminology, concepts, and methods in genetics, molecular biology, and genomics as they relate to biotechnology.
• Students will be able to apply scientific methods of inquiry in biology to gather and analyze data and draw evidence¿based conclusions in the applications of biotechnology in food production, agriculture, environmental remediation, drug discovery, and me
• Students will be able to evaluate evidence-based scientific arguments in a logical fashion and distinguish between scientific and non¿scientific evidence and explanations.
• Students will be able to communicate how scientific findings contribute to the modern world of biotechnology.
• Students will be able to work successfully in teams to contribute ideas, solutions, and courses of action to discussions of controversial topics in biotechnology through engaging other team members, constructively and respectfully.
• Students will be able to provide meaningful contributions to the team that advance the work of the group in understanding the foundation and applications of biotechnology.
• Students will be able to foster a constructive team climate during team-based learning activities.
• Students will be able to manage team conflict to develop consensus solutions to challenging questions of biotechnology.
• Students will be able to identify career opportunities in biotechnology.

PBIO 2060 - Sustainable Agriculture

• Students will be able to competently prepare soils, plant and transplant crops, maintain healthy plants, and identify appropriate harvesting and storage requirements
• Students will be able to identify and managing weeds, pests, and plant diseases commonly found in Ohio
• Students will be able to discuss the history of agriculture and domestication and relate this to current developments in agriculture
• Students will be able to evaluate the unique challenges of small scale, diversified agriculture, and local marketing

PBIO 2090 - Plant Ecology

• Students will be able to explain fundamental terminology, concepts and methods of plant ecology.
• Students will be able to apply scientific methods of inquiry in plant ecology to gather and analyze data, and draw evidence¿based conclusions about ecological patterns and processes.
• Students will be able to use knowledge of plant ecological patterns and apply the scientific method to explain how and/or why specific ecological patterns underly specific processes at varying temporal and spatial scales.
• Students will be able to evaluate evidence-based arguments in a logical fashion and distinguish between scientific and non¿scientific evidence and explanations of ecological patterns and processes.
• Students will be able to communicate how human activities affect the earth’s ecology and how an altered ecology contributes to climate change.

PBIO 2140 - Exploring Bioinformatics

• Students will be able to cite applications of bioinformatics to the medical and biological sciences.
• Students will be able to define and use terms associated with the field.
• Students will be able to find databases that are appropriate for the various sub-disciplines within biology..
• Students will be able to find other courses and programs available in involving bioinformatics.
• Students will be able to find training opportunities necessary for jobs in bioinformatics.
• Students will be able to identify career opportunities available within the field.

PBIO 2170 - Women in Science

• Students will be able to analyze and interpret research examining the effect of bias on the full participation and recognition of women and other underrepresented groups in science.
• Students will be able to describe specific contributions made by women scientists, the particular challenges they faced and trends in participation throughout history.
• Students will be able to explain specific contributions and research by women in a variety of STEM careers in the modern age.
• Students will be able to create oral and written products individually and in groups that showcase advances in science and technology led by women in STEM.
• Students will be able to debate the merits of regulations, policies and educational and workplace practices on the equitable participation of girls and women in science and their consequent effects on the larger society.

PBIO 2180 - Introduction to Biological Research and Writing

• Students will be able to find scientific literature relevant to an experimental question.
• Students will be able to design an experiment and perform it.
• Students will be able to explain the fundamentals of how research is performed.
• Students will be able to write up and present their results.

PBIO 2200 - Woody Plants

• Ability to identify wood.
• Evaluation of commercial and wildlife usage of woody species.
• Identification of trees, shrubs, and vines of the Midwest.
• Knowledge of native vs. non-native species and effects on biodiversity.
• Understanding of morphological features necessary to identify woody plants.
• Use of a botanical key to identify plants.
• Use of woody plants in landscaping and horticulture.

PBIO 2250 - Flowers

• Students will be able to describe various local ecosystems where various flowering plant species are found.
• Students will be able to identify seasonal flowering plants of Ohio.
• Students will be able to recognize common plant families in Ohio.
• Students will be able to recognize native, non-native, and invasive flowering plants.
• Students will be able to describe value and common use of various flowering plants.
• Students will be able to recognize and describe flowering plant morphology needed for keying and identification of plant families.
• Students will be able to use a botanical key for flowering plant identification.

PBIO 2470 - Biomes of the World

• Students will be able to describe climates, major organism groups, and extinction events during major periods of earth history.
• Students will be able to present and evaluate historical scientific and non-scientific arguments for processes underlying climatic patterns, changing landscapes and biota of past and present biomes.
• Students will be able to describe the distribution, biological diversity, conservation issues, and organisms used by humans within different biomes
• Students will be able to apply scientific methods of inquiry in analyzing individual components (organisms, landforms, processes) of particular biomes through research assignments, to draw conclusions on how those components contribute to development
• Students will be able to communicate current scientific understanding of, and conservation issues and efforts concerning, protected areas which represent particular biomes through research assignments, and the importance of this knowledge toward maintenan

PBIO 2480 - Dendrology: A Study of Trees, Shrubs, and Lianas

• Students will apply scientific nomenclature and fundementals of plant taxonomy toward plant identification.
• Students will apply species habitat requirements, reproduction strategies, and life history traits for identification.
• Students will be able to describe important biological and ecological properties of each species covered in the course.
• Students will be able to explain how plant species composition can be used to evaluate site quality and past land-use history.
• Students will be able to identify, written and verbally, the common and scientific name of each species covered in the course.
• Students will identify trees, shrubs, and woody vines in the natural environment during all seasons.

PBIO 2840 - Introduction to Global Studies in Plant Biology seminar

• Intro to ecology and culture of global studies destination countries.

PBIO 2900 - Special Topics in Plant Biology

• Students will be able to define terms related to the course topic
• Students will be able to find scientific literature related to the course topic
• Students will be able to read and critically evaluate scientific literature on the topic
• Students will be able to compare and contrast major components of the topic
• Students will be able to explain key concepts or features related to the topic

PBIO 2970T - Plant Biology Tutorial

• Gain experience in communicating scientific ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Gain experience with experimental design, research equipment and tools.
• Learn how to apply knowledge and skills in plant biology.
• Understand basic biological concepts and phenomena.

PBIO 2971T - Plant Biology Tutorial

• Gain experience in communicating scientific ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Gain experience with research equipment and tools.
• Learn how to apply knowledge and skills in plant biology.
• Understand basic biological concepts and phenomena.

PBIO 2980T - Plant Biology Tutorial

• Gain experience in communicating scientific ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Gain experience with experimental design, research equipment and tools.
• Learn how to apply knowledge and skills in plant biology.
• Understand basic biological concepts and phenomena.

PBIO 2981T - Plant Biology Tutorial

• Gain experience in communicating scientific ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Gain experience with experimental design, research equipment and tools.
• Learn how to apply knowledge and skills in plant biology.
• Understand basic biological concepts and phenomena.

PBIO 3010 - Lab in Cell and Molecular Plant Physiology

• It is designed to provide you with comprehensive exposure to protein and DNA manipulation.
• Lectures will be integrated throughout the lab exercises as needed to supplement and enhance the laboratory component.
• The class will consist of 4 laboratory exercises divided in three sections: cell biology, molecular biology, and protein biochemistry.
• This is a unique and excellent opportunity for students to gain practical experience in techniques routinely used in research labs.

PBIO 3020 - Soil Microbial Analysis Lab

• Analyze soils for extracellular enzymes.
• Analyze soils for microbial community composition via characterization of phospholipid fatty acids.
• Harvest, processes, and prepare soils for chemical and biological analysis.
• Measure soil respiration.
• Measure soils for carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
• Understand basic operation of analytical insturmentation: microplate reader, ICP, IRGA, GC, etc.
• Understand how to interpret acquired data.
• Understand how to give an effective poster presentation.

PBIO 3030 - Medicinal Plants of Ohio

• Students will be able to identify medicinal, poisonous, and edible plants growing wild or cultivated in Ohio.
• Students will be able to describe various plant habitats where medicinal plants are found.
• Students will be able to recognize native, non-native, and invasive plant species.
• Students will be able to use basic techniques to preserve herbs and make basic herbal preparations.
• Students will be able to describe how various plants are used in historic, folk, alternative, and contemporary medicine.
• Students will be able to recognize plant morphology necessary for keying and identification of medicinal plants.
• Students will be able to utilize a botanical key for medicinal plant identification.

PBIO 3050 - Plant Propagation

• Be able to properly select the appropriate method of asexual propagation a plant will respond to.
• Be able to understand proper techniques and methods of seed propagation and growth.
• Demonstrate ability to apply techniques learned in class to various other lab class exercises.
• To be able to correctly identify a minimum of 100 (or more) selected plants by scientific name.
• To understand the purposes of various propagation facilities and equipment used.

PBIO 3060X - Freshwater Algae

PBIO 3070X - Introduction to Bryophytes

PBIO 3080 - Structural Botany

• Students will be able to reconstruct the overall phylogeny of vascular plants and explain areas of weakness in our understanding of vascular plant relationships.
• Students will be able to name and identify the distinctive vegetative and reproductive characteristics of the major groups of vascular plants.
• Students will be able to compare and contrast the structures and life cycles of major groups of vascular plants.
• Students will be able to assess the homology of vascular plant structures.
• Students will be able to reconstruct the evolutionary history of and explain the significance of major structural and reproductive innovations in vascular plants (e.g., the seed habit).
• Students will be able to locate, synthesize, and present factual information about the structural characteristics of vascular plants.

PBIO 3100 - Biology of Fungi

• Be able to explain the multiple roles that fungi lay in ecosystems, as saprophytes, mutualistic and pathogenic organisms.
• Complete a field collection of fungi, with specimen sheets and complete identification.
• Learn the terminology of fungal identification, and be able to use a field guide key to identify unknown fungi.
• Learn to identify various groups of macro-fungi collected from field trips.
• Understand the classification of fungi as a major group of organisms, including their close relatives.

PBIO 3140 - Exploring Bioinformatics Seminar

• Be able to hold cross disciplinary discussions on topics in bioinformatics.
• Be able to interact in interdisciplinary groups to research applications of bioinformatics and present findings.
• Be able to read and critically review the literature in bioinformatics.
• Gain a more in-depth understanding of the discipline of bioinformatics and its applications.

PBIO 3150 - Statistical Methods in Plant Biology

• Students will be able to describe and display data.
• Students will be able to formulate testable hypotheses.
• Students will be able to develop experimental designs to test hypotheses.
• Students will be able to analyze data with the appropriate statistical test and interpret the results.
• Students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in R and RStudio, to analyze data and create graphs.

PBIO 3160 - Horticultural Management and Techniques

• Students will be able to Identify plant pathogen and nutrition symptoms and suggest any corrective measures needed.
• Students will be able to demonstrate a knowledge of garden design and management.
• Students will be able to select appropriate plants for varied applications.
• Students will be able to demonstrate familiarity with greenhouse management appropriate to future employment endeavors.

PBIO 3190 - Ohio Flora

• Gain experience with identification keys and familiarity with descriptive terminology used in plant keys.
• Key out and learn to recognize fall-blooming vascular plants in southeastern Ohio.
• Learn how to recognize herbaceous and woody vascular plants in vegetative condition during fall quarter.
• Learn standard practices for collection and preparation of plant specimens of herbarium quality.

PBIO 3220 - Tropical Plant Ecology

• Students will be able to locate and interpret primary sources in an extended term paper. This will addresses the “synthesis” Gen Ed goal.
• Students will be able to discuss common management and conservation methods applied in tropical forest systems. This allows students to participate effectively (i.e. with scientific understanding) in their society (Gen Ed goal).
• Students will be able to describe historical human interactions in tropical forest ecosystems. This aspect of the course covers resource use and forest interactions in many cultures around the world, meeting the “multicultural” Gen Ed goal.
• Students will be able to describe tropical plant families and their distributions.
• Students will be able to describe disturbance dynamics in tropical forest systems.
• Students will be able to discuss tropical species’ growth forms as adaptations to the the environment.

PBIO 3240 - Plant Physiology

• As a study of recent advances in specific topics, this course will examine the current work of internationally recognized scientists through their works and available information on their lab webpage.
• Each student will be required to write and present on a specific aspect of plant physiology not covered in the lectures.
• The course is designed to provide you with comprehensive exposure to the subject of plant physiology.
• You will learn the physical and biochemical aspects of plant physiology.

PBIO 3260 - Plant Ecophysiology

• Be able to describe and define the components of the energy budget of plants.
• Be able to describe the major abiotic stressors on plants and adaptations for tolerance or avoidance.
• Be able to describe, compare, and contrast the 3 major photosynthetic pathways.
• Conceptual understanding of plant water relations from the cell to the whole plant.
• Define and describe the principal mechanisms underlying plant physiological responses to the environment.
• Identify major interaction of plants and other biotic entities and their impacts on physiology and ecology.
• Knowledge of major mineral elements, their sources and their function in plants.
• Understand the ecophysiological mechanisms underlying plant competitive interactions.
• Understanding of basic abiotic environmental parameters that impact plants with respect to climate change.
• Understanding of growth and carbon allocation patterns.
• Understanding of photosynthesis light and dark reactions, where they occur, what they produce.
• Understanding of plant structures that minimize hydraulic dysfunction.
• Understanding of tradeoffs between respiration and carbon assimilation in different environments.

PBIO 3300 - Plant Genetics

• Students will be able to describe the basic principles of Mendelian and non-Mendelian genetics.
• Students will be able to use these basic principles to work research problems relating to genetics.
• Students will be able to describe the basic principles and research techniques of molecular genetics/molecular biology.
• Students will be able to analyze research data relating to genetics and molecular genetics.
• Students will be able to design experiments to test the genetic relationships among organisms.

PBIO 3301 - Plant Breeding

• A student will be able to describe the plant breeding and seed production industry, in developed, as well as developing, regions of the world.
• A student will be able to demonstrate competence in making crosses in a variety of plant species with diverse breeding systems.
• A student will be able to demonstrate competence and skills in seed collection, cleaning and quality assessment from bulk selection and breeding crosses.
• A student will be able to demonstrate abilities regarding organizing information and public speaking through classroom presentations.
• A student will be able to compare and contrast the advantages and challenges of various crop improvement strategies, ranging from low technology, traditional methods to high technology molecular breeding.

PBIO 3330 - Restoration Ecology

• Students will be able to describe and discuss the philosophy, scientific foundation and constraints of ecological restoration.
• Students will be able to create a restoration plan.
• Students will be able to assess how habitat requirements, ecosystem functioning and climate change will influence the restoration approach.

PBIO 3400 - Development and Evolution of Land Plants

• Application of classical anatomical and microscopy techniques.
• Appreciation of major evolutionary innovations.
• Exemplary insight into developmental genetic tools in model systems.
• Knowledge of diversity of vegetative and reproductive structures in land plants.
• Understanding of links between morphology and regulatory genes.

PBIO 3530 - Plant Developmental Physiology

• Students will be able to read and critically evaluate the scientific literature on plant developmental physiology.
• Students will be able to explain the basic principles of plant growth and development.
• Students will be able to list plant growth regulators and their key functions.
• Students will be able to list external (envrionmental) factors that affect plant growth and their key affects.
• Students will be able to explain how environmental factors interact with plant growth regulators to affect plant growth and development..

PBIO 3935H - Thesis Development

• Enhanced writing skills, demonstrated in an approved thesis proposal.
• Competency with primary tools to accomplish thesis research.
• Development of a research hypothesis and plan.
• Enhanced oral presentation skills, demonstrated by successful defense of the thesis proposal.
• Familiarity with major literature pertinent to the thesis research topic.

PBIO 3970T - Plant Biology Tutorial

• Gain experience in communicating scientific ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Gain experience with experimental design, research equipment and tools.
• Learn how to apply knowledge and skills in plant biology.
• Understand basic biological concepts and phenomena.

PBIO 3980T - Plant Biology Tutorial

• Gain experience in communicating scientific ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Gain experience with experimental design, research equipment and tools.
• Learn how to apply knowledge and skills in plant biology.
• Understand basic biological concepts and phenomena.

PBIO 4090 - Plant Systematics and Survey of Vascular Plant Families

• Identify and know traits of common, diverse and economically important vascular plant families.
• Learn how to generate and analyze different types of phylogenetically informative data.
• Understand delimitation, composition, and evolution of major lineages of vascular plants.

PBIO 4095 - Field Studies in Plant Diversity

• Contrast representative families, genera, and species comprising communities along the environmental gradient.
• Develop proficiency with keying out and sight-identifying vascular plant families, genera and species in the target region.
• Gain experience with ecological sampling techniques to analyze plant community composition.
• Learn to apply and interpret statistical analyses to floristic and ecological data sets.
• Understand diversity of plant communities and ecological zones in the target region.
• Understand shifts in plant community structure and vascular plant diversity with changing ecological factors (e.g., soil moisture).

PBIO 4120 - Plant Pathology

• Students will be able to describe the economic impacts of pests and diseases on plants, including historic examples of disease epidemics.
• Students will be able to explain the importance of life cycles of pests and pathogens as they relate to disease and pest control.
• Students will be able to identify pests and pathogens that cause disease or injury to plants.
• Students will be able to diagnose plant health problems causes by plant pathogens and pests, including using microscopic techniques.
• Students will be able to compare and contrast various methods of disease and pest control strategies, conventional and organic.
• Students will be able to recommend multiple treatment and management strategies that would provide control of common plant pathogens and pests of plant in Ohio

PBIO 4160 - Problem Solving with Bioinformatics Tools

• Gain an appreciation for the broad biological applications
• Students should understand the general principles of bioinformatics
• Understand the basic biological, statistical, and computer science principle relating to bioinformatics.
• Learn how to use currently available software to analyze data.
• Learn to read and critically evaluate current literature and software available.

PBIO 4170 - Biological Research and Science Ethics

• Students will be able to explain one’s own ethical core beliefs as scientists conducting research and how they shape ethical conduct and thinking.
• Students will be able to articulate ethical perspectives, theories, and/or concepts as they relate to the responsible conduct of research.
• Students will be able to recognize, evaluate, and connect ethical issues that constitute research misconduct as defined by US Federal Policy as well as the professional standards in the conduct of research with human participants and animal subjects.
• Students will be able to apply ethical perspectives, theories, or concepts to a decision-making situation as they pertain to conducting science, authorship/allocation of credit, and peer-review.
• Students will be able to evaluate the ramification of misconduct/unethical behavior on diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as how society views science and scientists.

PBIO 4180J - Writing for the Science Researcher

• Students will be able to break writing assignments into a series of tasks from outlining, finding appropriate literature, creating figures, drafting and revision.
• Students will be able to review, critique and edit their own and others’ works.
• Students will be able to retrieve, critically evaluate and synthesize scientific information from a variety of sources including the primary and secondary literature.
• Students will be able to use knowledge of genre conventions ranging from structure and paragraphing to tone and mechanics to tailor writings for different audiences ranging from the scientific community to the general public.
• Students will be able to create documents using multiple drafts and revisions to create and complete a successful text.
• Students will be able to integrate their own ideas with those in the literature.
• Students will be able to respond to peer review and critique.

PBIO 4181J - Writing for Biologists

• Students will be able to break writing assignments down into a series of tasks including finding, evaluating, analyzing, and synthesizing material from primary and secondary sources
• Students wil be able to integrate their own ideas with those of others from a variety of sources.
• Students will be able to review, critique and edit their own and others’ works
• Students will be able to use knowledge of genre conventions ranging from structure and paragraphing to tone and mechanics to tailor writings for different audiences ranging from the scientific community to the general public..
• Students will be able to create documents using multiple drafts and revisions to complete a successful text

PBIO 4200 - Phycology: The Study of Algae

• Students will be able to compare and contrast the characteristics of the major groups of algae.
• Students will be able to identify common algal genera in freshwater and marine systems.
• Students will be able to describe the role of algae in biogeochemical cycles.
• Students will be able to list the economic uses of algae.
• Students will be able to design and implement protocols to sample algae in lakes and rivers for biomonitoring.

PBIO 4270 - Molecular Genetics

• Gaining a working knowledge of how to deal with ethical issues relating to molecular genetics.
• Learning how to present scientific research data to an audience.
• Learning how to read and understand primary publications in the scientific literature.
• Understanding of current experimentation in molecular genetics and molecular biology.
• Understanding of essential concepts and techniques used in molecular genetics/molecular biology.

PBIO 4280 - Laboratory in Genomics Techniques

• Students will be able to use computational skills to analyze genomic data.
• Students will be able to use modern molecular techniques to manipulate DNA.
• Students will be able to perform biochemical techniques to analyze protein function.
• Students will be able to analyze gene expression at the transcriptomic level.

PBIO 4310 - Plant Cell Biology

• In order to get as much as you can out of this course, you must have the necessary basic knowledge in biochemistry and plant physiology.
• This course satisfies the 500/400-levels course requirements. It is designed to provide you with comprehensive exposure to the subject of cell and molecular biology.
• You will be required to present a summary of a methodology that you will choose among the proposed topics.
• You will learn the basics of cell structure and function.
• You will learn a few investigative and learning tools with which you can continue to explore cell biology.

PBIO 4350 - Plant Population Biology and Community Ecology

• Students will be able to describe plant population change in terms of births, deaths, and reproduction using simple numerical models.
• Students will be able to interpret plant performance in terms of biotic and abiotic heterogeneity at a variety of spatial scales.
• Students will be able to evaluate basic ecological processes such as competition, herbivory, and disturbance.
• Students will be able to interpret the growth forms and life histories of plants as products of natural selection in spatial and temporally heterogeneous environments.
• Students will be able to use simple numerical indices to describe the diversity and structure of plant communities..
• Students will be able to collect, collate, and present simple demographic and distributional data in a scientific format.
• Students will be able to interpret plant community structure and composition in terms of physical gradients, disturbance processes, and the life histories of individual species.

PBIO 4380 - Soil Properties and Ecosystem Processes

• Students will be able to describe soil profiles as a means to explain ecosystem properties.
• Students will have working knowledge in methods to harvest, process, and analyze soil samples to determine soil quality.
• Students will be able to interpret and evaluate data gathered in the field to assess how abiotic and biotic factors influence ecosystems.
• Students will be able to use knowledge of soil biogeochemical cycles to explain ecosystem function.
• Students will be able to explain how soils mediate plant community composition and ecosystem processes across multiple temporal and spatial scales.

PBIO 4420 - Experimental Anatomy of Plant Development

• Students will be able to identify all basic structures as related to plant anatomy.
• Students will be able to prepare samples for histological analysis and for report gene analysis.
• Students will be able to read and critically evaluate the current literature in the field.
• Students will be able design and perform analysis to assess mutants for differences in anatomical structure.
• Students will be able to describe the basic concepts of plant growth and development in the context of anatomy.

PBIO 4500 - Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering

• Students will be able to explain how to examine ethical issues relating to science.
• Students will be able to present scientific research data to an audience.
• Students will be able to read and describe primary publications in the scientific literature.
• Students will be able to conduct a comprehensive literature review on a biological topic.
• Students will be able to describe basic molecular and cellular biology concepts and techniques.
• Students will be able to describe current experimentation in the fields of biotechnology and genetic engineering.

PBIO 4501 - The Principles of Brewing Science

• To integrate the principles of biochemistry, microbiology, and plant biology as they apply to fermentation and beer brewing.

PBIO 4750 - Plant Population Genetics and Speciation

• Acquire experience with analysis of population genetic data to infer gene flow and differentiation.
• Develop understanding of diverse mechanisms of isolation and divergence.
• Discuss current issues and trends in plant evolution.
• Learn about classic and modern models of plant evolution.

PBIO 4850 - Plant Biology Capstone

• Develop understanding of plant ecology and species diversity in the target region.
• Integrate aspects of sub-disciplines across plant biology as they illuminate evolution and ecology of the region’s biota.
• Learn representative organisms as exemplars of natural communities in the region.
• Observe and discuss environmental issues and human impacts.

PBIO 4900 - Special Topics in Environmental & Plant Biology

• Students will be able to find scientific literature as appropriate for the course topic.
• Students will be able to compare and contrast major components of the topic
• Students will be able to explain key features related to the topic.
• Students will be able to use scientific nomenclature as appropriate for the topic.

PBIO 4910 - Internship

• Applied plant biology.
• Practical experience.
• Scientific method.

PBIO 4940 - Undergraduate Research

• Students will be able to use the scientific method to design experiments to test hypotheses.
• Students will be able to collect data as appropriate to address their questions/hypotheses.
• Students will be able to create scientifically appropriate figures and tables based on data collected.
• Students will be able to critically evaluate data to draw conclusions based on their experimental results.

PBIO 4941 - Undergraduate Research/Written Presentation

• Students will be able to critically evaluate data from the primary research literature.
• Students will be able to use the scientific method to create independent hypotheses.
• Students will be able to design their own original experiments to test hypotheses.
• Students will be able to use scientifically valid techniques in their fields to collect and analyze data.
• Students will be able to produce written documents using appropriate technologies for biological research.
• Students will be able to synthesize and integrate original experimental data with that from the literature.

PBIO 4945H - Thesis

• A student will be able to critically evaluate of the relevent scientific literature.
• A student will be able to design an original research project.
• A student will be able to explain research design and methodology
• A student will be able to collect and interpret data.
• A student will be able to synthesize original data with the current scientific literature.
• A student will be able to explain research outcomes via both oral presentation and written thesis.

PBIO 4970T - Plant Biology Tutorial

• Gain experience in communicating scientific ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Gain experience with experimental design, research equipment and tools.
• Learn how to apply knowledge and skills in plant biology.
• Understand basic biological concepts and phenomena.

PBIO 4980T - Plant Biology Tutorial

• Gain experience in communicating scientific ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Gain experience with experimental design, research equipment and tools.
• Learn how to apply knowledge and skills in plant biology.
• Understand basic biological concepts and phenomena.

EVT 1000 - Introduction to Environmental Engineering Technology

• Analyze and understand the reasons for air pollution.
• Analyze and understand the reasons for water pollution.
• Describe techniques for sampling and analyzing air pollution.
• Describe techniques for sampling and analyzing water pollution.
• Describe the characteristics of solid, hazardous, and nuclear waste.
• Describe the ecological concerns of environmental pollution such as acid rain, ozone depletion, and global warming.
• Describe the toxic effects and toxicology of hazardous materials.
• Examine case studies of environmental legislation such as CWA, SDWA, CERCLA, SARA, TSCA, EPCRA.
• Identify the nine hazard classes of hazardous materials.
• Investigate alternative energy sources.
• Investigate the current waste minimization and sustainability techniques.
• List the types of toxic materials based on health effect (e.g. carcinogens, mutagens, teratogens).
• Summarize the DOT hazmat regulations.
• Summarize the hazmat regulations such as CERCLA, SARA, and EPCRA.
• Understand the historical perspective, career opportunities, and regulatory process of environmental engineering technology.

EVT 1100 - Environmental Engineering Instrumentation and Computation

• Analyze an alternative energy source for energy effectiveness and report findings.
• Calibrate environmental engineering instrumentation.
• Collect data with environmental testing sensors.
• Create presentations and reports of data summarized from environmental simulated data gathering.
• Determine data summaries and error for collected and provided data sets.
• Perform basic statistical computations using a hand-held computer.
• Understand the functions of a hand-held computer such as a TI-Nspire CAS unit.
• Utilize current hazmat and environmental response software for air dispersion modeling.
• Utilize current spreadsheet software for data analysis, statistical analysis, charting and graphing.
• Utilize current word processing software for generating SOPs, Database Report processing, and template development.
• Utilize hazmat and environmental engineering instrumentation.
• Utilize word processing software for entering formulas and scientific text via equation editor tools.

EVT 1200 - Introduction to Environmental Chemistry

• Calculate results using the ideal gas law.
• Describe the basic units of measure - temperature, pressure, time, mass, speed.
• Perform stochiometric calculations on basic chemical reactions and equations.
• Understand the basic concepts of gas.
• Understand the fundamental aspects of atmospheric chemistry and air pollution.
• Understand the fundamental aspects of biological chemistry.
• Understand the fundamental aspects of hazardous wastes and hazardous waste treatment.
• Understand the fundamental aspects of industrial hygiene chemistry.
• Understand the fundamental aspects of organic chemistry.
• Understand the fundamental aspects of water chemistry, water pollution, and water treatment.
• Understand the properties of matter - atoms, molecules, moles, gases, liquids, solids.

EVT 1250 - Hazwoper

• Don and doff personal protective equipment and clothing.
• Don and doff respiratory protective equipment.
• Identify and implement the decontamination procedures for a hazmat response.
• Identify and understand DOT Hazmat requirements per 49 CFR 170-178.
• Identify and understand other hazmat informational resources from NIOSH, EPA, ACGIH, OSHA.
• Identify the characteristics of hazardous materials.
• Identify, calibrate, and utilize monitoring instrumentation for a hazmat response.
• List the four levels of personal protective equipment for hazmat response.
• List the types of respiratory protection and fit testing requirements.
• Perform a full scale hazmat emergency response.
• Perform confined space practicals.
• Perform hazmat emergency response practicals.
• Provide an overview and understanding of OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.120 HAZWOPER Standard
• Understand current terrorism concerns associated with hazmat response.
• Understand the confined space standard as it applies to hazmat response.
• Understand the site control zones for a hazmat response.
• Utilize confined space entry and fall protection equipment.

EVT 1400 - Introduction to Air and Wastewater Pollution

• Calculate air pollution emissions given energy consumption, fuel used, and weather conditions.
• Calculate the dispersion of atmospheric pollutants.
• Calculate wastewater pollution problems necessary to become a wastewater plant operator.
• Calculate water pollution emissions given plant loadings, flow rates, and treatment conditions.
• Describe preliminary and primary water treatment techniques used on wastewater pollution.
• Describe the operation of physical and chemical treatment techniques such as trickling filters and activated sludge.
• Determine Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) for wastewater pollution.
• Determine how to control nitrogen oxides.
• Determine how to control sulfur oxide emissions.
• Determine the particulate control efficiency of particulate control devices.
• Identify meteorological conditions such as solar radiation, wind circulation, lapse rate, and stability classes.
• Identify the effects and sources of air pollutants.
• Identify the effects and sources of water pollutants.
• Identify the general characteristics of stack plumes.
• Interpret particle size distribution charts and tables.
• List Maximum Contaminant Limits for water pollutants as established by EPA.
• List the Criteria Pollutants as established by EPA.
• Understand incineration techniques and principles.
• Understand specific monitoring techniques for PM2.5, SOx, NOx, CO, and Hydrocarbons.
• Understand the EPA protocols for sampling and monitoring such as sampling trains.
• Understand the general control of gases and vapors (absorption vs. adsorption).
• Understand the legislative history and current regulations governing air pollution control.

EVT 1900 - Special Topics

• Developed per special topics course. Requires program approval per course offering.

EVT 1910 - Internship/Practicum/Cooperative Education

• Provide a summative report of the work experience that is signed by work experience supervisor.

EVT 2000 - Site Investigation, Sampling, and Monitoring

• Collect indoor air quality samples for mold, mildew and other biological contaminants.
• Develop a written QA/QC protocol for environmental sampling.
• Identify the sampling procedures for specific environmental analyzes per EPA and OSHA regulations.
• Operate a sampling activity utilizing a direct push method.
• Operate a sampling activity utilizing a drill rig.
• Perform analysis in an environmental laboratory.
• Perform sampling in confined spaces.
• Perform water sampling methods per EPA regulations.
• Understand quality assurance and quality control protocols.
• Understand the techniques for collecting, preserving, and handling environmental samples.

EVT 2000L - Site Investigation, Sampling, and Monitoring Laboratory

• Completion of lab practicals in conjunction with EVT 2000.
• Operation of a drill rig.
• Operation of environmental sampling equipment.

EVT 2100 - Introduction to Health Physics

• Calculate dose levels for x-rays, alpha radiation, beta radiation, and gamma rays.
• Calculate radioactive decay using exponential equations.
• Calculate radioactive decay using spreadsheet software.
• Describe nuclear power reactors - both a PWR and BWR.
• Describe the biological effects of radiation - both on organs and whole body.
• Describe the interactions of radiation with matter.
• Describe the measurement of radiation exposure, absorbed dose, and dose equivalent.
• Describe the nuclear fuel cycle.
• Describe the nuclear structure and decay processes involving alpha, beta, and gamma radiation.
• Describe the protocol for personnel monitoring for radiation contamination and exposure.
• Describe the protocol for radiation protection and exposure control.
• Describe the quantities and units associate with radiation dosimetry.
• Identify radiation sources that naturally occur, artificially occur, and those which are used in industrial settings.
• List the types of ionizing radiation such as alpha, beta, gamma, and x-rays.
• Perform radiation surveying using radiation detection equipment and instrumentation.
• Understand radiation dosimetry.
• Understand the atomic structure and atomic radiation process.
• Understand the calibration requirements of radiation equipment.
• Understand the current disposal and treatment techniques for radioactive waste.
• Understand the methods of radiation detection.

EVT 2200 - Fluid Mechanics

• Apply fluid dynamics to the characterization of ventilation systems.
• Calculate fluid dynamics for fluids in motion using the Bernoulli equation.
• Calculate fluid dynamics for fluids in motion.
• Calculate fluid pressure for fluids at rest.
• Calculate the forces exerted for fluids at rest.
• Describe the properties of fluids.
• Evaluate ventilation systems using fluid dynamic equipment (e.g. manometers, pitot tubes).

EVT 2400 - Air Sampling and Analysis

• Calculate gas properties using the ideal gas law.
• Conduct field sampling of air pollution using an air sampling data form.
• Describe air pollutant collection principles.
• Describe air sampling methods for gaseous pollutants.
• Describe air sampling methods for particulate matter.
• Describe the collection principle of impingers, filters, and adsorbent tubes.
• Describe the condition under which velocity measuring devices are used.
• Describe the ideal gas law.
• Describe the operation and maintenance of gas flow rate measuring devices.
• Identify air/gas volume measuring devices.
• Understand the basic concepts of gas.
• Use a pitot tube for velocity measurements of air flow.
• Use gas flow measuring devices in air sampling systems.
• Write a report of air sampling results and calculations.

EVT 2400L - Air Sampling and Analysis Laboratory

• Calibrate air sampling trains.
• Calibrate with primary and secondary sources.
• Completion of lab practicals per EVT 2400.
• Conduct air sampling for biological contaminants.
• Conduct heat stress sampling.
• Conduct noise sampling.
• Conduct personal air sampling per OSHA regulations.
• Conduct sampling for particulates.
• Perform high volume air sampling.
• Perform ventilation system analysis (e.g. fume hoods).

EVT 2500 - Analysis of Environmental Pollutants

• Analyze data spectra for compound identification.
• Create internal standards, surrogate standards, and matrix spike standards.
• Describe Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry.
• Describe UV/VIS Spectrophotometry.
• Describe environmental analysis methods provided by EPA, OSHA, and NIOSH.
• Describe environmental analysis.
• Describe gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.
• Perform analysis for an environmental sample via GC/MS.
• Perform analysis for an environmental sample via UV/VIS.
• Perform tuning of a mass spectrometer.
• Write an environmental analysis report per EPA/OSHA guidelines.

EVT 2500L - Analysis of Environmental Pollutants Laboratory

• Create a calibration standard for analysis on a GC/MS.
• Labs per EVT 2500.
• Operate a AAS whereby an environmental sample can be analyzed and interpreted.
• Operate a GC/MS whereby an environmental sample can be analyzed and interpreted.
• Operate a UV/VIS whereby an environmental sample can be analyzed and interpreted.
• Perform calibration of analysis equipment.
• Perform tuning of a GC/MS.
• Understand the operation of a GC/MS.

EVT 2600 - Environmental Risk Assessment

• Conduct a phase I environmental site assessment.
• Understand the components of a phase I environmental site assessment.
• Understand the components of a phase II environmental site assessment.
• Write a phase I environmental site assessment report.

EVT 2900 - Special Topics

• Developed per special topics course. Requires program approval per course offering.

EVT 2910 - Internship/Practicum/Cooperative Education

• Provide a summative report of the work experience that is signed by work experience supervisor.

EH 2000 - Introduction to Environmental Health and Safety

• Students will be able to critically state, describe, and consider environmental health issues or problems.
• Students will be able to use information from multiple sources with enough interpretation/ evaluation to develop a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between the environment and health.
• Students will be able to systematically and methodically analyze assumptions about the relationship between the environment and health and carefully evaluate the relevance of contexts when presenting a position.
• Students will be able to state a specific position (i.e. perspective, thesis or hypothesis) that is thoughtful, recognizes complexities and acknowledges limitations.
• Students will be able to state conclusions and related outcomes (consequences and implications) logically and in priority order.

EH 2900 - Special Topics in Environmental Health

• Students will increase their knowledge in Environmental Health.

EH 3040 - Environmental Health in Appalachia

• Students will be able to summarize environmental factors in Appalachia that affect public health.
• Students will be able to distinguish between environmental health conditions in the Appalachian region and those outside of the region.
• Students will be able to formulate reasons for health disparities in Appalachia that are related to environmental conditions.
• Students will be able to evaluate the impact of environmental policies, programs, and priorities on public health in Appalachia.

EH 3100 - Air, Waters and Wastes

• Apply specific enforcement codes and regulations for air, waters, and wastes issues.
• Describe sources of pollution in air and waters, and how to control them effectively.
• Explain the laws and regulations applicable to air, waters, and wastes.

EH 3200 - Health and the Built Environment

• Conduct assessments of the health and safety of indoor environments.
• Describe the laws and regulations applicable to the built environment.
• Evaluate the impact of social determinants on health disparities.
• Explain the variety of factors affecting the built environment and how to control them.
• Summarize the role that environmental health professionals can play to influence healthy communities.

EH 3300 - Food Quality and Vector Control

• Describe diseases associated with food and vector borne modes of transmission.
• Explain the basics of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) food safety and quality paradigm.
• Recognize control opportunities for vector borne diseases.

EH 4000 - Environmental Health and Safety Risk Communication

• Apply risk communication concepts to multiple scenarios involving environmental issues.
• Complete a case study of a risk communication scenario.
• Demonstrate an improvement in communicating risks to the public.
• Identify the key concepts behind the public perception of environmental health and safety risks.

EH 4400 - Occupational Safety and Health

• Students will be able to identify industrial hazards for which regulations exist.
• Students will be able to apply federal regulations and best practices to injury and risk reduction.
• Students will be able to explain safety science techniques to identify unsafe workplaces.
• Students will be able to describe the safety profession within the health, safety, environment paradigm.

EH 4710 - Environmental Risks and Society Benefits

• Students will be able to explain how society identifies chemicals as hazardous.
• Students will be able to critically analyze how people react to chemical risks.
• Students will be able to identify how chemicals can both benefit and harm environmental public health.
• Students will be able to document specific cases of chemicals that create both risks and benefits to public health.
• Students will be able to evaluate the role that public perception plays in using chemicals in society.

EH 4900 - Special Topics - Environmental Health

• Apply professional level decision making and information tools
• Creation of a professional level resume, cover letter, and list of references
• Demonstration of professional level presentation abiliities across two or more topical areas
• Describe current research aspects of profession
• Describe graduate school options, funding, application procedures, and outlook
• Explain professional ethics and codes of conduct for professionals

EH 4920 - Environmental Health Practicum

• Apply rubrics from one or more EH courses to employer’s needs in working situations.
• Demonstrate professional proficiency to the satisfaction of mentor.
• Obtain comprehensive understanding of one or more roles of the EH professional.

EH 4930 - Independent Study

• Accomplishment of pre-determined goals as agreed to ahead of registration with instructor of record

ES 2900 - Special Topics in Environmental Studies

• Students will increase their knowledge in Environmental Studies.