Undergraduate Research. 1-

Catalog description

Semester course; 3-12 research hours. 1-4 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 18 credits. Prerequisites: BIOZ 151 and BIOZ 152 , each with a minimum grade of C. Enrollment is restricted by permission of the Department of Biology and faculty mentor. A maximum total of six credits for all research and internship courses ( BIOL 395 , BIOL 451 , BIOL 453 , BIOL 492 , BIOL 493 , BIOL 494 , BIOL 495 , BIOZ 395 and/or BIOZ 493 ) may be applied to the 40 credits of biology required for the major. Additional credits from the courses may be applied to upper-level and open elective credits toward the degree. A minimum of two credits is required for the course to count as a laboratory experience. Students will immerse themselves in biologically relevant primary research under the mentorship of a VCU faculty member. Students will actively participate in projects that involve data collection and analysis, mastering field and/or laboratory techniques and executing experimental procedures. The course will culminate in the submission of a written research report. The course emphasizes hands-on learning through mentorship. The experience is designed to enhance students' practical skills, critical thinking and application of research methodologies while contributing to cutting-edge science. A minimum of three hours of supervised activity per week per credit hour is required.