BIOL 101 Our Biological World (4 units)

Study of biology as it relates to humans and their environment with special emphasis on ecological interrelationships, evolution and genetics, and topics of current importance. Recommended for non-science majors to fulfill laboratory science transfer requirement.

BIOL 110 Principles of Biology (4 units)

Using natural selection and physiological survival as a unifying theme, this course deals with the basic problems common to all living systems, and compares the functional solution that various organisms have evolved, illuminating the unity in diversity that characterizes life on earth. Recommended for non-science majors to fulfill laboratory science transfer requirement.

BIOL 111 Natural History of California (4 units)

Introduction to common animals and plants of the San Francisco Bay Region, their natural history and distributions.

BIOL 130 Human Biology (3 units)

Designed to provide students with an appreciation of the structure, function, and development of their own bodies. Topics include an introduction to science and scientific methods of investigation and some elementary chemistry (no previous background necessary) as a basis for understanding human functions such as digestion, circulation, reproduction, heredity, evolution, human ecological roles and other systems. Some diseases and other causes of body malfunction are discussed.

BIOL 140 Animals, People, and Environment (3 units)

This course will familiarize the student with the methods and importance of behavioral investigation in animals. Emphasis on past and current human-animal relationships, the impact on animal populations and increasing need for wildlife protection.

BIOL 145 Plants, People & Environment (3 units)

A survey of plants emphasizing those aspects of plant biology that have affected the lives of people. Topics include: the success and failure of modern agriculture; the impact of humans on the environment; and the importance of plants in solving critical problems of hunger and conservation of energy. Attention is given to modes of inquiry or ways in which scientists carry out their investigations.

BIOL 150 Introduction to Marine Biology (3 units)

A non-technical introduction to the scientific method used in studies of marine biology. Major emphasis is given to the natural history of marine animals and plants and their relationship with the oceanic environment.

BIOL 170 Principles of Applied Bioscience (3 units)

A survey of the principles that govern the living world, from molecules to cells and tissues, to organs and whole organisms, to populations and ecosystems, to the entire biosphere. Special emphasis is placed upon experimental approaches, current issues, and practical application of the scientific method and biological principles to issues affecting public health, agriculture, and socioeconomic change. Current news and developments in relevant areas of biological sciences and biotechnology will be reviewed and discussed.

BIOL 171 Laboratory Principles of Applied Bioscience (1 units)

The laboratory introduces students to practical methods in preparing materials, reagents and media for conducting biological investigations and products of genetic engineering. Students will learn to measure and prepare solutions of various concentrations and pH, how to use basic chemistry and biological instrumentation such as digital scales, pipettes and micropipettes, centrifuges, and vertical and horizontal electrophoresis apparatuses. Students will plan and conduct biological experiments using the scientific method and employing modern laboratory methods and instrumentation. Data will be analyzed using spreadsheet software for tabulation and graphing. Teamwork, responsible lab technique, and proper and thorough notebook keeping will be emphasized.

BIOL 215 Organismal Biology: Core I (5 units)

As part of a two-course core program, BIOL 215 is an introductory survey of organismal form and function. Analysis of fundamental biological functions including nutrition, gas exchange, reproduction, natural selection, and ecology using representative living organisms.

BIOL 230 Introduction to Cell Biology: Core II (5 units)

An introduction to life functions as seen at the cellular level; cellular structure, macromolecular architecture and function, cellular energetics, chemical regulation, photochemical activities, molecular genetics, and genetic engineering. It is the second course in the two-course Biology core sequence.

BIOL 240 General Microbiology (4 units)

Morphology, taxonomy, ecology, and physiology of microorganisms, with emphasis on bacteria. Laboratory techniques on culture and identification of bacteria. Recommended for agriculture, biochemistry, nursing, pre-medical and pre-dental, biotechnology engineering, and other life science majors.

BIOL 250 Human Anatomy (4 units)

Gross and microscopic structure of the human body through lecture and laboratory study of dissections, histology slides, anatomy models, and prosected human cadavers. Primarily intended for Nursing, Respiratory Care, Allied Health, Surgical Technology, Kinesiology, and other health-related fields. Elective for pre-dental, premedical, and pre-veterinary students.

BIOL 260 Human Physiology (5 units)

Study of how the organ systems function in maintaining homeostasis - regulating change and growth processes in humans. Recommended for students in allied health areas such as nursing, physical therapy, respiratory therapy, radiology, and related fields.

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, and evaluation of personal dietary habits using current dietary guidelines and nutritional assessment methods.

BIOL 426 Genetic Engineering (1 units)

This course will examine how genes work and how they can be manipulated and cloned. Topics include DNA and protein synthesis, genetic engineering, and DNA fingerprinting. Also includes laboratory experience with DNA analyses: RFLP and PCR.

BIOL 430 Introduction to Immunology (1 units)

This course will examine the immune system and how it protects us from disease. Topics include vaccine and antiserum production by traditional methods and by genetic engineering. Also includes laboratory experience with laboratory techniques.

BIOL 432 Fermentation Technology (1 units)

Overview of the origin and development of industrial fermentations. Course will cover fermentations used in the production of beverages, food ingredients, enzymes, chemicals and pharmaceuticals to demonstrate microbial metabolism.

BIOL 665 Selected Topics in Biology (0.5- 2 units)

This course is designed to develop specific skills, techniques or concepts that are appropriate to biology and/or biotechnology. The course will focus on one specific topic; for example, new or leading edge developments in biotechnology.

BIOL 675 Honors Colloquium in Biology (1 units)

One lecture hour per week or 3 lab hours per week. Corequisite: Concurrent enrollment in any non-honors biology level 100 or 200 course. Readings, discussion and lectures covering selected advanced topics in biology to be determined by the Biology Department and the Honors Program. May be repeated three times for credit.

BIOL 695 Independent Study in Biology (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.