BIO 171 - Introductory Research in Biology

This course allows students with limited backgrounds in college-level biology courses (typically before completing one or both BIO 11# introductory courses) to pursue a specific biological research question via investigative work or other original research under the direction and supervision of a Biology faculty member who reviews and approves the research topic and methodology. Enrollment in the course occurs through Handshake application to individual faculty members, after which permission of the supervising faculty member may be granted. The faculty member reviews applications, offers positions as appropriate, and then approves individual student topics, and closely supervises and evaluates the student’s work. Research may be presented at the end of the semester in a scientific paper, poster, and/or oral presentation. Enrollment is by permission of the supervising faculty member who also evaluates the student’s work. The student develops a written plan of study (syllabus) in collaboration with the faculty member following the guidelines on the Independent Course Contract form available online through the Registrar’s Office.

Prerequisites & Notes

With permission of the Biology chair, one course numbered BIO15# or BIO17# may be applied to satisfy an elective course within the Biology major. Apply through Handshake.