BTRY 101 is mainly an introduction to mathematical modeling for biologists. Main topics we cover are difference equation models (building the models, and ideas such as equilibria and stability), age-structured models such as Leslie matrices, Markov chains, basic probability and statistics, limits and derivatives, differential equations, and some curve fitting (regression, including nonlinear regression).
As we cover those topics, we also learn simple computer programming using the Matlab software package. That way, students learn to write small simulation programs to see the mathematical concepts in action graphically, to numerically study models which are impossible to solve analytically, and to see things like replicated stochastic simulations.
Pre-calculus is a prerequisite for the course. No computer programming background is assumed, although if you have done some programming, it will make that aspect of the course a bit easier.
Undergrad students in various biology majors generally tell me the course is hard, but good.
BTRY 102 goes into more depth on topics started in 101. Main topics are stochastic processes such as Poisson processes (including those with multiple types of events, and with changing rates), more advanced analysis of matrix models (mainly via eigenvalues and eigenvectors), and some computational techniques in statistics such as randomization tests and bootstrapping. We really learn to appreciate the power of Matlab in this course, and its ability to do vectorized operations.
BTRY 102 is mainly for Biometry & Statistics majors (or students in other mathematical majors), or biologists who want a much stronger quantitative and computational background.
It's best if students take BTRY 101 before 102, but in the past several students who transferred into the major have jumped right into 102. That is feasible as long as you aren't too computer-phobic, since you'd have to get up to speed with Matlab in the first couple of weeks if you didn't take 101.
Student evaluations of this course were extremely positive last time I taught it.