Course Descriptions
BIOL 100 Introduction to the Life Sciences (3 units)
Study of the nature of the physical and chemical aspects of life, the concepts of cellular biology, life as it exists on earth today, plant and animal interrelationships and interdependencies, and the role of humans in the world of living things.
BIOL 110 Principles Of Biology (4 units)
This introductory course addresses the biological perspective and scientific method, the chemical and cellular bases of life, cellular transport and energetics, reproduction, heredity, classification of organisms and their evolution, plant and animal physiology, and ecology.
BIOL 130 Human Biology (3 units)
Study of biological principles using the human body as a model. Topics are structure and function of major organ systems and some common disorders. Heredity, evolution, and human ecological roles are also discussed.
BIOL 132 Human Biology Laboratory (1 units)
Laboratory exercises concerning mammalian anatomy and physiology and using the scientific method to analyze and interpret data and then draw appropriate conclusions. This course is a supplement to BIOL 130 Human Biology.
BIOL 133 Emerging Infectious Diseases (3 units)
This course covers the major scientific principles behind historic and contemporary pandemics, including smallpox, tuberculosis, AIDS, Ebola, and COVID. It embraces interdisciplinary learning, blending microbiology, epidemiology, and public health. Students use scientific method and experimental methodology to investigate microbial pathogens and study how they interact with their hosts to cause disease. Complex challenges of the modern world, such as antimicrobial resistance, climate change, globalization, and urbanization, drive their emergence. Through systematic questioning, critical thinking, and assessment, students analyze global solutions for future pandemics, cultivating adaptability and resilience.
BIOL 225 Biology of Organisms (5 units)
Designed for biology majors, this course focuses on the structures and physiology of plants and animals, organism interactions and ecology, and how populations change over time. Key topics include plants and photosynthesis, feedback loops and control systems, homeostasis, food chains, food webs, population dynamics, natural selection, population genetics, and micro- and macroevolution.
BIOL 230 Cell and Molecular Biology (5 units)
This course is designed for biology majors and is an introduction to life functions at the cellular and molecular levels. Students learn about cellular structure and the macromolecular architecture of the cell, the functional processes of cellular energetics, metabolic regulation, photochemical activities, reproduction, molecular and Mendelian genetics, regulation of gene expression, and methods of recombinant DNA technology.
BIOL 240 General Microbiology (4 units)
This course introduces microorganisms in nature: their cellular and molecular structure and functions, metabolisms, genetics, gene regulation, and techniques and procedures used by microbiologists. Emphasis is on microbes that play important roles in human daily life, especially those that cause disease and impact the environment. Laboratory emphasizes isolation, cultivation, and identification of bacteria.
BIOL 250 Human Anatomy (4 units)
Structural organization of the human body: gross and microscopic structure of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, sensory, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and reproductive systems, from cellular to organ system levels of organization. This course is primarily intended for nursing, allied health, kinesiology, and other health related majors.
BIOL 260 Human Physiology (5 units)
Study of the physiological principles, function, integration and homeostasis of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, organ system and organism level: integumentary system, bone, skeletal, smooth and cardiac muscles, nervous system, sensory organs, cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, endocrine system, and reproductive system. This course is primarily intended for Nursing, Allied Health, Kinesiology, and other health related majors.
BIOL 310 Nutrition (3 units)
Comprehensive introduction to scientific principles of nutrition and the interrelationships of metabolism; nutrient functions, structure and food sources; health consequences of nutrient excesses, deficiencies and diet related chronic diseases. Emphasis is placed on evaluating the nutrient content of foods, applying information to personal diet, and using reference tools.
BIOL 695 Independent Study (0.5- 3 units)
Designed for students who are interested in furthering their knowledge via self-paced, individualized instruction provided in selected areas or directed study to be arranged with instructor and approved by the division dean using the Independent Study Form. Varying modes of instruction can be used -- laboratory, research, skill development, etc. For each unit earned, students are required to devote three hours per week throughout the semester. Students may take only one Independent Study course within a given discipline.