Agriculture and Agribusiness

Undergraduate Programs

Description

Agricultural Science involves the study of soil management and crop production. The science is a combination of ecology, biology, chemistry, and genetics, and seeks to understand plant nutrition and crop production. Students prepare for careers related to agriculture as they learn soil physical and chemical characteristics and effects of agriculture on soil fertility. They study other factors of production including climate, weeds, fungi, erosion, leaching, and pests. Students also learn about plant physiology, genetics, nutrition, effects on soil, satellite-based micro-management of inputs and the maximization of sustained yield, and how to market farm products. Animal production includes the study of animal physiology, nutrition, reproduction, genetics, and food/meat science. Students prepare for careers related to livestock and equine breeding, management, health, economics, and food safety. 

Agribusiness and Food Innovation comprise a link between producers and consumers. Students learn how to help producers and allied businesses maximize production, process, package, deliver, and market agricultural products to consumers.

Agriculture, Food, & Natural Resources is an academic Area of Distinction for the University providing extensive partnerships with business and industry, K-12 and higher education, and civic groups. And the University hosts a number of Agriculture-focused programs and events throughout the year. 

Majors

 Program Locations Total Credits
Agricultural Sciences BS BS - Bachelor of Science
  • Mankato
 120

Minors

 Program Locations Total Credits
Agribusiness and Food Innovation Minor
  • Mankato
 16
Agriculture Minor
  • Mankato
 20

Policies & Faculty

Policies

Policies for the Agricultural Sciences major: 

Residency Requirement. At least 50% of courses 300 level and up that are required for the major must be taken at Minnesota State University, Mankato.  Graduation with a Biology Major requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0; and a minimum cumulative GPA in Biology courses of 2.0. 

P/N Grading Policy. All courses leading to a major or a minor in biology must be taken for letter grades. Any exception to this policy must be approved by the chairperson of the department.  Refer to the College regarding required advising for students on academic probation.

GPA Policy. In programs where not specifically noted, a minimum GPA of 2.0 must be maintained in biological sciences.

Policies for the Agribusiness and Food Innovation minor: 

  1. Students must have declared a major at the university.
  2. Students must have cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher when starting the Agribusiness and Food Innovation Minor. 

Contact Information

Major: 242 Trafton South

Minor: 250 Morris Hall 

Major (507) 389-2786
Minor (507) 389-5347

Faculty

Ag Business Advisor:
  • Shane Bowyer, Ed.D.
Faculty

100 Level

Credits: 4

Introductory course designed for students not majoring in science. Focuses on basic biological principles with special emphasis on the human species. Includes scientific problem solving, biodiversity, human and social aspects of biology, ecology, cellular processes and organ function, human reproduction, pre-natal development, and heredity. Lecture, laboratory, and small group discussions.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-03, GE-08

Credits: 2-4

Students focus on specific biological perspectives, including environmental science, biology of women, biotechnology, human heredity, etc. May be repeated for credit under different sub-titles.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

An introduction to biological topics of special interest to women with emphasis on anatomic and physiologic changes over the course of a woman's lifetime. Designed for students not majoring in science. Presents fundamental biologic concepts within this specialized context and provides opportunity to collect, evaluate, and analyze data.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-03

Credits: 3

An introductory course designed for students not majoring in science. Focuses on basic biological principles as applied to biotechnology. Includes basic natural science principles, scientific problem solving, and human and social aspects of biotechnology. Lecture, laboratory, and small group discussions.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-03

Credits: 4

Study of biological processes at the suborganismal level including cell chemistry, metabolism, reproduction, genetics, and complex tissue physiology. Laboratory and discussion sessions stress problem solving and experimental design.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-03

Credits: 4

Study of biological processes at the organismal level including a survey of life forms (viruses, bacteria, protists, fungi, plants, and animals), their evolution, and ecology. Laboratory and discussion sessions stress problem solving and experimental design.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105 

Credits: 1

An introduction to the health care profession with special emphasis on clinical laboratory personnel. Course includes presentations by professionals in some of the major health care fields, especially medical technology. Includes lectures, field observations.

Prerequisites: none

200 Level

Credits: 4

Introduction to genetic analysis. Topics covered will include those of both classical and modern genetics: population genetics, molecular genetics, genetic manipulation of organisms and selection. Central to this course will be the primacy of the trait as the object of genetics and the development/refinement of the concept of the gene. Lab included.Fall, Spring, Summer

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and MATH 112 

Credits: 4

Principles of the study of relationships between organisms and the environment. Topics include flow of energy and materials, organism-level interactions, growth and evolution of populations, and community ecology. Field trips to prairie, lake, stream, and forest communities, training in data collection and analysis, use of equipment, and report writing. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105 and BIOL 106 or consent 

Credits: 4

Biology of plants including unique features of plant cells, life histories, metabolism, anatomy, physiology, and ecology. The course empathizes plants' remarkable adaptations to their environments, their diversity, and the vital roles they play in ecological interactions. For biology and environmental science majors and minors. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105 and BIOL 106 or consent 

Credits: 4

Systems approach to the structure of the human body. The course is designed for students majoring in biology or health related programs. Lab included.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

This course examines basic management concepts and principles, their historical development, and their application to modern organizations. Topics covered include planning, organizing, decision making, leadership, control, and organizational change. In addition, the course includes an introduction to business ethics and social responsibility, human resource management, organizational design and organizational behavior.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 4

An introduction to the general principles and methods used in the study of microorganisms. Lab included. Prereq: One BIOL course and one semester of chemistry from among CHEM 104, CHEM 106, CHEM 111, or CHEM 201. Fall, Spring, Summer

Prerequisites: One BIOL course and one semester of chemistry from among CHEM 104, CHEM 106, CHEM 111, or CHEM 201 

Goal Areas: GE-03

Credits: 3

Provides experience with a wide variety of biological laboratory exercises to prepare prospective elementary teachers. Emphasis is on building knowledge, skills, and confidence. The course will cover major biological concepts and environmental education through classroom-ready examples selected to illustrate each concept.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1

This class provides MAX scholars with an opportunity to explore a set of topics related to achieving success in academic, professional and personal realms. Speakers will include faculty, graduate students, visiting researchers and industry members as well as student participants. NOTE: Credit does not apply to any major.Fall, SpringPrereq: Recipient of a MAX scholarship or instructor consent

Prerequisites: Recipient of a MAX scholarship or instructor consent.

300 Level

Credits: 3

This course is designed to introduce students to the Management Information Systems and its application in organizations. The course will present to the students the information systems role to support the various managerial activities, and to help the students identify and evaluate various options in Management Information Systems.

Prerequisites: ISYS 101 or CIS 101

Credits: 2

Evolution is a unifying theory of biology. Students are provided the history of evolutionary thought and the Darwinian revolution, evidence for evolution, mechanics of evolution, and an array of special topics such as speciation, molecular evolution, conservation, and extinction. Readings will include book chapters and journal articles. Lecture/discussion.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 211

Credits: 4

Principles of functions of human cells, organs, and systems with an emphasis on organ/system interactions. Designed for majors that do not require a strong medical and research emphasis. Includes an active learning laboratory to facilitate learning the complex lecture material.

Prerequisites: BIOL 220, CHEM 104 or CHEM 106 or CHEM 111 or CHEM 201

Credits: 3

A comprehensive phylogenetic survey of both invertebrate and vertebrate animals. Emphasis on evolutionary relationships among phyla, the evolution of organ systems, animal organization and function, animal adaptations, and zoogeographical considerations. Research and inquiry of animal unity and diversity will include using the Internet. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105 and BIOL 106 

Credits: 4

An examination of eukaryotic cellular structure, organization and physiology. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105 and BIOL 106, BIOL 211 

Credits: 3

Basic anatomy and physiology of the nervous system. The course is designed for students majoring in biology, psychology or health related programs.

Prerequisites: BIOL 220 

Credits: 4

Principles of functions of human cells, organs, and systems with an emphasis on organ/system interactions. This course is designed for students majoring in biology, chemistry, or related sciences, and medically-related areas. Includes a laboratory with a research and medical emphasis.

Prerequisites: BIOL 220, CHEM 104 or CHEM 106 or CHEM 111 or CHEM 201

Credits: 3

This course is designed to develop a students personal creativity and help a student identify the process of organizational innovation. The course is comprised of a combination of short lecture, in-class discussion of readings and videos, writing assignments, an elevator pitch and group activities.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

This course will provide a general introduction to physiological processes associated with nutrition, chemical composition of feedstuffs, nutritive requirements of domestic/production animals, and an introduction to formulating and balancing rations for relevant livestock species. Recommended Course: BIOL 105

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

This course examines the effective management of the human resources of organizations. Topics include analyzing jobs and writing job descriptions; recruiting and hiring of applicants; complying with employment law; managing promotions, quits, and layoffs; employee training and development; evaluating job performance; determining compensation; and managing human resources in a unionized environment.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

This course engages students in the study of the operations management function in manufacturing and service organizations. Students learn how to apply the basic analytical models to operation decisions involving topics such as scheduling, production technology, inventory management, quality assurance, just-in-time production, and others.

Prerequisites: ECON 207 

Credits: 3

This course examines basic business concepts and principles and their application to modern and future agriculture industries. Agribusiness topics covered include commodities, supply chain, finance, sales, accounting, law, engineering, food safety, healthcare, data analysis, and technology. Professionals in the agriculture industry will be brought into class to explain how business knowledge and skills are essential to various sectors; including but not limited to: livestock, poultry, corn/soybeans, bio-fuels, engineering, and natural resources. Students will have an opportunity to broaden their thinking, understanding, and professional potential as related to the agriculture industry while interacting with industry professionals.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

Basic understanding of the principles of immunohematology applied to the area of blood blanking including major blood group systems, principles for antigen/antibody detection and identification, donor blood collection, transfusion evaluation, theory of renal function in health and disease, specimen collection, handling, and processing, and components of routine urinalysis.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

Concepts, theories, and empirical research on organizational behavior are studied. Models and tools for diagnosing situations, individual behavior, group behavior, intergroup conflicts, supervisory problems and organizational change are analyzed.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

This course introduces a scientific approach to modeling and solving managerial decision problems. It includes such topics as linear and integer programming, network models, waiting-line models, simulation analysis, and decision theory.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 0

Curricular Practical Training: Co-Operative Experience is a zero-credit full-time practical training experience for one summer and an adjacent fall or spring term. Special rules apply to preserve full-time student status. Please contact an advisor in your program for complete information.

Prerequisites: MGMT 201. At least 60 credits earned; in good standing; instructor permission; co-op contract; other prerequisites may also apply.

Credits: 1

This course is designed to provide hands-on research experience to RISEbio scholars. Students taking this course will be involved in an original research project. Using a variety of methods, students will collect original data and contribute to problem solving in the biological sciences. As an early research experience, emphasis will be placed on the process of scientific research, including formulation of a research plan, data collection, assessment of data quality and interpretation based on available data. Students are required to keep a lab notebook and present their findings to classmates and a wider audience.

Prerequisites: none

400 Level

Credits: 4

The structure and function of stream ecosystems are presented with emphasis on adaptations of organisms to stream life and connections between stream organisms, the aquatic environment, and the surrounding watershed. Includes lab, field work, and team projects. Prereq: BIOL 105W, BIOL 106, BIOL 215 or consentSummer

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215 or consent

Credits: 3

Applications of principles from ecology, genetics, behavior, demography, economics, philosophy, and other fields to the conservation and sustainable use of natural populations of plants and animals. Lectures and discussions address topics such as habitat fragmentation, parks and reserves, genetic diversity, population viability, and extinction.

Prerequisites: BIOL 215 or consent 

Credits: 4

To provide students the values and functions of wetlands and to use wetlands as an example of the relationship of ecology to management, and the impact that classification systems have politically. Lab (fieldwork) included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215, or consent 

Credits: 3

An introduction to fish biology and fisheries management, diversity, form, and function in the aquatic environment, functional physiology, evolution and speciation, identification and use of keys, ecology, and management topics.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215, or consent of instructor

Credits: 4

A field course in the ecology of birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and fishes. Students are trained in sampling techniques such as mark-and-recapture, population size estimation and monitoring, and species identification of live and preserved specimens. Lectures encompass evolution and adoption, origins, energetics, mating systems, morphology, geographical distributions, and population-level phenomena. Lecture and Laboratory.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215 or consent 

Credits: 4

A field course focused on the function and dynamics of various North American ecosystems. Emphases will be on natural history, critical thought, and experimental design. Students will be trained in a variety of soil, plant, and animal sampling techniques. Depending on enrollment, there may be additional costs (e.g., camping fees) for the course.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215 or consent 

Credits: 3

This class examines the effects of natural and human-induced changes in climate on terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The course focuses on the science behind global change issues that have biological, social, and economic implicatons.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215 or consent 

Credits: 3

This course will examine multiple facets of human genetics. The modern human genome is not a static entity but one that arose from a dynamic combination of inputs from multiple human species, effects from the environment, and their mixture over time. The first third of the course will study ancient human genetics and their contributions to our genome, the second will study human ancestry and migration patterns, and human population genetics. The final third of the course will investigate the modern human genome, genetic diseases, genetic engineering of our genome, and the future of human genetics and its ethical implications.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 4

Soil ecology will focus on the genesis and classification of soils, the physical properties of soil as they relate to habitat formation, niches, interactions that exist among soil organisms, human impact on soil systems relative to population pressures and management practices. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215, or consent 

Credits: 3

Emphasis is placed on the biomedical aspects of aging and chronic disease. The course is designed for students majoring in biology, gerontology programs, or other health related programs.

Prerequisites: BIOL 100 or BIOL 105 

Credits: 4

Clinically important parasites. Protozoans, Flukes, Tapeworms, Roundworms, Ticks, Mites and Insects. Designed for Medical Technology, Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Biology majors. Identification, clinical disease, epidemiology and ecology are covered. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 100 or BIOL 105, BIOL 106 recommended 

Credits: 3

Morphological, physiological, medical, and economic significance of insects.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105 and BIOL 106 or consent 

Credits: 4

This course will explore the structure and function of the vertebrate body in its diverse forms from fishes to mammals. Discussion of individual organ systems will focus on developmental patterns, function and evolutionary relationships. The lab will include microanatomy (histology) and macroanatomy (gross anatomy) of example organisms. Students will become familiar with the tissue, organ and system levels of the anatomy of vertebrates.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

Understanding the process of cell differentiation and development. Special emphasis will be placed on the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms that direct the development of multicellular organisms. Course to include current areas of research and other timely topics.

Prerequisites: BIOL 100 or BIOL 105 

Credits: 1

Biology 425 is an optional 1-credit laboratory addition to Developmental Biology, Biology 424. In the laboratory component, students will be exposed to modern techniques used to examine developmental processes in several key model systems. Laboratory exercises consist of experiments designed to demonstrate fundamental concepts in development and to familiarize students with experimental approaches utilized in studying developmental biology and embryology.

Prerequisites: BIOL 211; Co-requisite: BIOL 424

Credits: 4

Collection, examination, evaluation, morphology, function and diseases of blood cells. Hemostasis/coagulation of blood. Immunology theory is presented. Lab included.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

A comparison of adaptation mechanisms, from cell to organ-system, used by animals in response to changes in environmental conditions such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, food availability, temperature, water, solutes, pressure and buoyancy.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106 or consent 

Credits: 4

This course is an introduction to the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics and interactions of inland freshwater lakes. Labs will emphasize field work, including data collection from five local lakes, analysis, and discussion.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

This course is a functional study of the heart and circulatory system.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 4

Study of types, arrangements and special adaptations of human tissues. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 220 

Credits: 4

An exploration of behavioral strategy, communication, learning, and social systems of animals, with emphases placed on the causes, evolution, ecological implications, and function of behavior at the individual and population level. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215 

Credits: 4

The course covers the reproductive physiology and management of domestic farm animals including cattle, sheep, horses, swine, turkeys, chickens. The reproductive cycles of females, and the control of reproduction in the male will be discussed, along with gestation, parturition, and offspring care. Common problems with reproduction, including infectious and environmental, will be presented, followed by appropriate management techniques. Laboratory included. BIOL 105 or equivalent recommended.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

This course provides the basis for understanding hormones and the mechanisms of their actions in both the normal and pathological states. Sample topics to be included are diabetes, osteoporosis, hormones of reproduction and current social and medical issues related to the course.

Prerequisites: BIOL 100 or BIOL 105 

Credits: 3

This course will explore diseases of farm animals, along with treatment and prevention. Management, nutrition, and environment will be integrated with infectious and non-infectious disease incidence. Treatment options, preventative measures, and economic impacts of disease will be discussed. The process of a reporting a disease will be outlined, along with quarantine procedures. BIOL 105 or equivalent is recommended.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 4

Plant functions such as water relations, mineral nutrition, translocation, metabolisms, photosynthesis, photorespiration, fat and protein metabolism, respiration, growth and development, phytohormones, reproduction and environmental physiology. Lab included. (One semester organic chemistry is recommended.)

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 217, one semester organic chemistry recommended. 

Credits: 3

Students learn how to hire the best talent available using sound professional methods. Students design and present legally defensible recruiting and screening techniques for jobs they have analyzed.

Prerequisites: MGMT 340 

Credits: 4

Field identification of plants with emphasis on local flora. History systematic, techniques, plant biogeography, methods of plant collection, preservation, preparation of herbarium specimens are covered. Lab and field trips included.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

The focus of this course is operating an effective, efficient, legal and responsible system for compensating one's employees. Includes the workings of labor markets, analyzing jobs, finding the market value for jobs, designing a pay structure, appraising performance, setting individual pay, determining benefits, occupations requiring special pay programs.

Prerequisites: MGMT 340 

Credits: 4

Expands upon general principles of ecology to focus on the factors that regulate the distribution and abundance of plants, analysis of plant populations, and dynamics of plant communities. Lecture and lab (fieldwork) included. (Taking BIOL 217 is strongly recommended before taking this class.)

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 215 or consent. BIOL 217 strongly recommended. 

Credits: 3

The course is an active learning course where students are immersed in the process of starting a new enterprise. In managing their entrepreneurial projects, students conceptualize and develop business plans that include self-assessment, industry and market analyses, a marketing plan, human resource management, and financial analyses and projections. Students have contact with business professionals and entrepreneurs via field trips, guest speakers, and entrepreneurial networking events.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

Students design and deliver training by assessing client needs, defining learning outcomes, choosing effective methods, training, and evaluating results.

Prerequisites: MGMT 340 

Credits: 4

This course will introduce students to the principles and practices of weed science. Lecture will cover topics including weed biology and ecology, an introduction to weed management techniques and methodologies, factors affecting weed control, and environmental issues associated with weed management. Course material will highlight weed management in cropping systems, non-row crop and right-of-ways, natural areas, and aquatic habitats. The laboratory component of the course will focus on weed identification, crop/weed competition, application techniques including effective herbicide use and current weed control practices.In addition to the the prerequisites listed, BIOL 217 is strongly recommended.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

Special topics as requested by students.

Prerequisites: MGMT 230

Credits: 3

This course covers essential topics in modern quality management within manufacturing and service organizations from a managerial perspective, including quality planning, culture, customer focus, leadership, vendor relations, the use of statistical quality control tools and software as well as behavioral issues in the improvement of process and product/service quality. Prereq: ECON 207 or equivalent

Prerequisites: ECON 207 or equivalent 

Credits: 4

Lecture/laboratory course that presents an integrated view of plant biology, crop science, ecology, sustainability and current issues in biotechnology. Course focuses on issues of global concern such as sustainable food production, cropping techniques, climate change responses, pest management and herbicides, resistance, biofuels, genetically modified crops, molecular pharming, and tissue culture. Fall.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106

Credits: 3

The principle and operation of instruments and their application to biological research. Types of instrumentation examined include spectroscopic, chromatographic, electroanalytic, radiographic, and imaging. Laboratory Information Management systems (LIMS) will also be examined. Emphasis is placed on GLP, GMP, and ISO 9000 practices.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, or consent 

Credits: 4

The application of engineering principles and skills as applied to fermentation and to biological product recovery. Prereq: BIOL 270 and one semester each of calculus, physics, and organic chemistry, taken concurrently with BIOL 456.

Prerequisites: BIOL 270 and one semester each of calculus, physics, and organic chemistry, taken concurrently with BIOL 456. 

Credits: 4

Continuation of Biological Engineering Analysis I. The application of engineering principles and skills as applied to fermentation and to biological product recovery. Prereq: BIOL 453, taken concurrently with BIOL 457.

Prerequisites: BIOL 453, taken currently with BIOL 457 

Credits: 3

Practical laboratory experience in biotechnology through the selection and development of a research project. Students are expected to spend an average of 12 hours per week on the project. Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 453

Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 453 

Credits: 3

Continuation of Biotechnology Project/Laboratory I. Practical laboratory experience in biotechnology through the selection and development of a research project. Students are expected to spend an average of 12 hours per week on the project. Prereq: BIOL 456, taken concurrently with BIOL 454

Prerequisites: BIOL 456, taken concurrently with BIOL 454 

Credits: 3

This course is designed to prepare students to design and develop personal computer based information systems for management control and decision making using end-user software including spreadsheets and data base management systems. Students will design and develop several information systems as group projects.

Prerequisites: MGMT 230, MGMT 300

Credits: 3

A lecture course covering basic principles of toxicity evaluation in living organisms, mechanisms of responses to chemicals or physical agents within an overview of practical medical, environmental and science policy implications. Presentation of comparisons of specific organ and tissue reactions to toxins in a variety of species follow these introductory concepts. Prereq: BIOL 105W, 106, and 1 year of General Chemistry

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and 1 year of General Chemistry 

Credits: 4

A lecture/laboratory course that focuses on anthropogenic and natural toxicants, mathematical modeling of the dispersion of chemical and physical agents in the environment, effects on species and ecosystems with a special section on aquatic risk assessment. The laboratory includes techniques in environmental toxicity and a genuine research project.

Prerequisites: BIOL 460 

Credits: 1

A seminar course that involves critical evaluation of published studies in toxicology, student presentations of a selected published manuscript and requires students to write a paper on one aspect of the course's topic area that semeter. Topic areas vary each time the course is offered. Prereq: BIOL 105W, 106, and General Chemistry Alt-Fall

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and General Chemistry 

Credits: 3

A lecture/laboratory course focusing on the steps necessary to start a research project from project definition through methods testing and evaluation, and a final report that includes a project flow chart. Third year students will have senior and/or graduate mentors. Prereq: BIOL 105W, 106, and General Chemistry Alt-Fall

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and General Chemistry 

Credits: 3

A lecture/laboratory course where students perform all aspects of their own designed research topic in toxicology while critically evaluating the progress of other projects as well. Students will be expected to keep timelines or develop modified timelines as necessary. The inverted triangle approach of project design will be examined and then included in all designs.

Prerequisites: BIOL 464 

Credits: 3

A lecture course that examines mechanisms of drug action, physiological responses and adverse reactions from sensitivities or allergies through overdose. Prereq: BIOL 105W, 106, 230 and 1 year of General Chemistry

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and 1 year of General Chemistry 

Credits: 3

A lecture course that examines Minnesota State University, Mankato, as your own work place to develop reports on a selected group of chemical and physical hazards of the workplace. Evaluation methods and solutions to existing problems are developed with concise reporting skills. Prereq: BIOL 105W, 106 and 1 year of General Chemistry

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and 1 year of General Chemistry 

Credits: 4

Role of microorganisms in soil, air, water, sewage processes as well as methods of measurement and detection. Special emphasis on the role of microorganisms in bioremediation. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and BIOL 270 

Credits: 3

Students will develop skills needed to initiate, plan, execute, control and close projects. The course will cover theories, techniques, group activities, and use of computer tools like Microsoft Project for managing projects.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

Viruses infect all living things, such as bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals (including humans). There are many viruses that cause significant human mortality and morbidity, such as influenza and smallpox viruses. However, the vast majority of viruses that infect humans have little or no negative impact on our health and well-being. This course will teach Virology by stressing the rules of replication that every virus must follow. The use of viruses as molecular tools, virus-host interactions, and current viral outbreaks will also be discussed.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and BIOL 270

Credits: 3

This course covers ERP software in general and how it helps integrate information used by an organization's many different functions and departments into a unified computing system. How to use an ERP system to improve the business functions of an organization by streamlining its operations will also be covered. Students will learn how to document business processes using different tools including EPC charts. In addition, the course also covers managerial issues associated with an ERP project and how to manage those issues.

Prerequisites: MGMT 300

Credits: 4

Fundamental principles of humoral and cell mediated immunity and the application of these principles. Current experimental work in the different areas of immunology will be discussed. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, and BIOL 270 

Credits: 4

This course will cover bacterial, fungal, and viral human pathogens: what diseases they cause, how they cause disease, and how humans defend against and prevent those diseases. In the laboratory the student will isolate and identify pathogenic microorganisms using microbiological, biochemical, and immunological techniques.

Prerequisites: BIOL 270 

Credits: 5

This course presents the physiology and genetics of microorganisms emphasizing those aspects unique to bacteria and archea. Topics include: energy production; biosynthesis of small molecules and DNA, RNA, and proteins; the formation of cell walls and membranes; microbial differentiation and behavior; and the genetic and biochemical regulation of these processes. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 270 

Credits: 4

The role microbes play in production and spoilage of food products, as prepared for mass market. Topics include foodborn pathogens, epidemiology and control, essential principles in sanitation including Hazard Analysis/Critical Control Point and ISO 9000 requirements. Lab included.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106 and BIOL 270 

Credits: 4

This course will cover both eukaryotic and prokaryotic molecular biology including: DNA and RNA structure, transcription, regulation of gene expression, RNA processing, protein synthesis, DNA replication, mutagenesis and repair, recombination, and insertion elements. A number of important techniques used in recombinant DNA technology will be discussed and practiced.

Prerequisites: BIOL 105, BIOL 106, BIOL 211

Credits: 3

Provides experience with a wide variety of biological laboratory exercises to prepare prospective elementary teachers. Emphasis is on building knowledge, skills, and confidence. The course will cover major biological concepts and environmental education through classroom-ready examples selected to illustrate each concept.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1

Experience in maintaining and supervising laboratories. For individuals desiring additional experience with students in laboratory situations.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

MGMT 481 is an integrative course for COB majors. Its emphasis is on understanding the role of a general manager, which should include an operations and international component.

Prerequisites: FINA 362, MGMT 210, MGMT, 230, MGMT 346.

Credits: 3

Students learn how to apply moral principles to analyze ethical dilemmas in business. Students also learn how to argue for or against government regulation of business. Topics covered include bribery, anti-competitive business practices, pollution, product safety, marketing ethics, employee rights, sexual harassment, discrimination and affirmative action, conflicts of interest, and insider trading.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1

This class provides MAX scholars with an opporutnity to explore a set of topics related to achieving success in academic, professional and personal realms. Speakers will include faculty, graduate students, visiting researchers and industry members as well as student participants. Students will be required to participate in mentoring of lower division MAX scholarship recipients and provide written and oral presentations of various topics during the semester.Fall, SpringPrereq: Receipient of a MAX scholarship or instructor consent

Prerequisites: Recipient of a MAX scholarship or instructor consent.

Credits: 3

The course provides a foundation for leadership development by offering theoretical background, practical information, and an opportunity for self-assessment that permits students to begin or continue the development of their leadership talent. The underlying theme upon which the course is based is that the ability to lead begins with reflection and self-awareness.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 4

A basic science methods course designed to prepare prospective junior and senior high life science teachers. Course will cover science teaching methods and support materials as they apply to life science teaching situations. Prereq: 16 credits BIOL

Prerequisites: 16 credits BIOL 

Credits: 3

This capstone course examines how the strategic management of the human resources of an organization can enhance organizational success. The course investigates how to achieve strategic congruence between an organizations strategy and HR management. Topics covered include the interrelationships among the HR disciplines, ethics, sustainability, social responsibility, the role of the HR professional, managing workforce changes, achieving competitive advantage through HR, HR performance metrics, and organizational effectiveness.

Prerequisites: MGMT 340

Credits: 17

The clinical internship and training include lectures, demonstrations, laboratory sessions, and clinical practicum in the area of nuclear medicine technology in affiliation with Mayo School of Health Sciences in Rochester, MN.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 17

The clinical internship and training include lectures, demonstrations, laboratory sessions, and clinical practicum in the area of nuclear medicine technology in affiliation with Mayo School of Health Sciences in Rochester, MN.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-4

A variable topic course designed for a selected topic in Biology. Workshops provide an intensive learning experience on a new topic in the Biological Sciences and/ or hands-on experiences in a current area not covered by other course offerings. The course involves background reading, demonstrations, and laboratory or field experiences.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 3

Professionalism is a key factor for career success. Skills such as critical-thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making are all essential to projecting a professional image. Key competencies contribute to desirable workplace behavior. Active-listening, communicating clearly, working well in teams, taking initiative, are examples to projecting a professional image.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-12

The clinical internship and training includes lectures, demonstrations, laboratory sessions, and clinical practicum in the area of cytotechnology. Instructor permission required.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-12

Continuation of Cytotechnology Clinical Internship I. The clinical internship and training includes lectures, demonstrations, laboratory sessions, and clinical practicum in the area of cytotechnology. Instructor Permission required.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-12

Continuation of Cytotechnology Clinical Internship II. The clinical internship and training includes lectures, demonstrations, laboratory sessions, and clinical practicum in the area of cytotechnology. Instructor Permission required.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-12

Continuation of Cytotechnology Clinical Internship III. The clinical internship and training includes lectures, demonstrations, laboratory sessions, and clinical practicum in the area of cytotechnology. Instructor Permission required.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 4

Supervised experience in agribusiness or food related organizations, industry, state, or federal institutions.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-12

Experience in applied biology according to a prearranged training program for a minimum of five 40-hour weeks.

Prerequisites: Consent 

Credits: 3

Supervised experience in business, industry, state or federal institutions. P/N only.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-12

Experience in applied biology according to a prearranged training program for a minimum of five 40 hour weeks. Only four credits can be applied to the major.

Prerequisites: Consent 

Credits: 3

Supervised experience in business, industry, state or federal institutions. Grade only.

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-4

Individual Study

Prerequisites: none

Credits: 1-4

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Prerequisites: none