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Finishing Foundations

Biology majors can complete their Finishing Foundations (FF) requirement through one of two pathways: a coursework option or an independent research/internship option.

Independent research or internship option

This pathway involves completing a mentored research project or internship.

  • BIOL 485 – Research Capstone (Fall, Spring) Students collaborate with a faculty mentor or community partner to develop an independent research or internship project on a relevant biology question. Teams present their work publicly. Must have research or internship experience to fulfill the Finishing Foundations requirement. Concurrent completion of BIOL479, BIOL493, BIOL496, or VIP 400. Permission number required.

Steps for enrollment:

Identify an opportunity.

  • For Research: Contact faculty members in the Biology department. You should review their profiles online, email them about your research interests and training, and work with them to design a project. You may do research with faculty from other departments.
    • Register for Undergraduate Research Credit (BIOL 479)
    • Undergraduate Research credits from other departments can be accepted.
  • Vertically Integrated Projects: Search the active VIP teams by visiting the website. Once you have identified teams that interest you, complete this inquiry form.
    • Register for VIP 400

Note: Set up your project by the deadline listed in the University Academic Calendar.

  • Register for your Internship, Research, or VIP
    • You can apply for BIOL 485 even if these credits are still being approved.
  • Request a Permission Number for BIOL 485 – Research Capstone
    • You’ll need to include contact information for your Internship Supervisor, Research Mentor, or VIP Coach.
  • Register for BIOL 485 along with one of these co-requisites:
    • BIOL 479 – Undergraduate Research Experience
    • BIOL 496 – Independent Study
    • BIOL 493 – Internship
    • VIP 400 – Vertically Integrated Projects
    • Research credit from another department
  • You may register for one of the co-requisites before BIOL 485.
  • For BIOL 493 or BIOL 496, you must also complete the required application forms.
  • Complete BIOL 485. Attend the weekly class, where you will analyze research projects, present your findings via a poster, and develop portfolio materials for your professional growth.

Contact bioladvisor@boisestate.edu with any questions or concerns about the BIOL 485 – Research Capstone.

Coursework options

Choose one of the following courses to fulfill the FF requirement.

  • BIOL 415 – Microbial Physiology (4 credits, Spring) Microbial physiology is the study of structure and function in microbial cells, biosynthesis of macromolecule precursors and their assembly into macromolecules, growth dynamics, integration of metabolic pathways at the level of gene expression and enzymatic activity, and responses to environmental changes. Experimental methodologies will be focused on various applications of microbial physiology. Prerequisites: BIOL 303, and CHEM 307–308, or instructor permission.
  • BOT 401 – Plant Physiology (4 credits, Fall) A study of plant biophysical and biochemical processes. Includes coverage of cell, tissue, and organ function, photosynthesis, water relations, mineral nutrition, transport mechanisms, growth and development, secondary metabolites, and plant responses to the environment. Prerequisites: BIOL 304, or instructor permission.
  • ZOOL 401 – Human Physiology (3 credits, Spring) Functional aspects of human tissues and organ systems with emphasis on regulatory and homeostatic mechanisms. Prerequisites: BIOL 310 and BIOL 320 or instructor permission.
  • ZOOL 409 – Animal Physiology and Nutrition (4 credits, Fall) Physiological principles common to all forms of animal life with a focus on nutrition are discussed. Physiological adaptations required to live in a variety of environments and deal with a diversity of diets are presented. Prerequisites: BIOL 304, or instructor permission.
  • ZOOL 421 – Mammalogy (4 credits, Spring) The biology of mammals: classification, identification, ecology, reproduction and anatomy, modern data collection methods. Includes an authentic research component. Prerequisites: BIOL 304, or instructor permission.
  • ENVSTD 492 – Capstone Seminar (3 credits, Fall, Spring) An interdisciplinary course addressing real-world problems by integrating science, policy, and social sciences. Permission number required (contact instructor). EEB Emphasis Only.
  • HLTH 490 – Capstone Experience (3 credits, Fall, Spring, Summer) Design and engage in a capstone project that synthesizes healthcare and/or public health concepts and addresses current health and wellness-related issues within various contexts. Prerequisites: Must have a class standing of upper-division. CMB Emphasis Only.