BIOL 5306 - Advanced Biological Evolution

Credits: 3 Class: 3 Lab: 0
Prerequisite(s): Graduate level standing with Genetics (BIOL 3303) or its equivalent.
Evolution is the central organizing paradigm in biology: aspects of biology can be understood without recourse to evolutionary theory but a deep understanding of biology and the diversity of life is impossible without it. This graduate level course seeks to establish a basic, solid understanding in of what biological evolution is and its causes, which will allow the student to speak intelligently about evolution to others. Evidence of evolution, mechanisms for evolutionary change, adaptations, speciation, and phylogenetics are emphasized. Note: In our discussions of certain topics, a familiarity with fundamentals of genetics is required. You should enter this course having a working knowledge of such concepts as gene inheritance and how DNA codes for the amino acids found in proteins. You will leave this course with a knowledge of the fundamentals of evolution. This course should serve to help you understand more areas of biology through an evolutionary context.