BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

This course is an intensive study of the gross and microscopic structure of the human body including the four major types of tissue and their subgroups, and the following organ systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, endocrine, nervous, and sensory. Functions of the organ systems are included at the introductory level to prepare students for a course in Human Physiology. Laboratory assignments develop the skills of observation, investigation, identification, discovery and dissection. The use of actual specimens, including cat dissection and observation of a human cadaver, is emphasized to assure that students learn the relative structure, functions, textures and variations in tissues not incorporated in models. Supplemental materials such as models, photographs, charts, videotapes, and digitized images are also provided. This course is required for students preparing for many Allied Health professions including, but not limited to, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Education and Kinesiology Training, and Physician's Assistant and is a prerequisite for Human Physiology 3.

This survey course explores the principles of biology using humans as examples. It includes introductions to the scientific method, cell biology, heredity, evolution, human ecology, behavior, and the major concepts of structure, function and pathology of most organ systems. The course may serve as an introduction to the future study of biology, including anatomy and physiology, or stand by itself as a non-lab life science course for general education students.

This general biology course is for transfer students who are not biology majors. Topics include basic molecular and cellular biology, genetics, the anatomy and physiology of plants, animals and humans, the diversity of life, evolution, and ecology. Current environmental issues and new developments in biological science are discussed. Laboratory experiences are integrated and stress scientific methodology and thinking. Credit is allowed for either BIOL 3 or BOTANY 1, but not both.

This survey course of marine organisms and their relationships to their environment emphasizes intertidal and offshore life forms. Included is an investigation of behavior, ecology, morphological and physiological adaptations and environmental relationship to humans. This course is three hours each of lecture and laboratory work.

This survey course covers ecological principles including ecosystem structure and function, population dynamics and the interdependence of living organisms. Current environmental issues and controversies such as global warming, biodiversity and species extinction, habitat destruction, food and energy resources and pollution will be explored. Strategies for sustainable living will be emphasized.

This course provides an overview of photosynthetic organisms (the Plant Kingdom, photosynthetic Monerans and Protistans) and Fungi. Flowering plants are emphasized. Topics covered include a survey of botanical life forms, taxonomy, the structure, development and function of cells, stems, roots leaves, flowers, and seeds; chemistry, photosynthesis, respiration, plant physiology, Mendelian and molecular genetics, genetic engineering, evolution, and ecology. Scientific thinking skills will be developed in laboratory exercises. One or more labs are field trips to local natural areas or Plant society meetings. Credit is allowed for either BIOL 3 or BOTANY 1, but not both.

This course introduces students to basic concepts of environmental biology through the study of evolution, ecology, and conservation biology. The course is designed for both major and non-major environmental science students. It is intended both as preparation for upper division Environmental Science classes, but also as general education for all students interested in a more in-depth understanding of current biological and environmental issues. By the end of the course, students should be able to use scientifically sound information to critically analyze complex environmental issues from around the world. Students will gather and analyze basic research data and apply the scientific method to conservation-related projects. Laboratory and field experiments are integrated and stress scientific methodology and thinking.

Human nutrition, integrating anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and psychology, is studied in relation to wellness and degenerative disease prevention. Scientific information and principles provide the foundation for evaluating current concepts in nutrition for practical application in daily living.

The evolution of American food culture is examined from a historical, contemporary, economic, political and scientific survey of ethnic groups in America, including Native Americans, European Americans, African Americans, Asian Americans, and Latinos. Immigration, enculturation, acculturation, religion, food availability, food preference, food behavior, food preparation, food beliefs and food-related gender roles are considered. These factors are compared and contrasted across the ethnic groups and regions in America. The impact of Americanization on ethnic cuisines and impact of ethnic cuisines on the American economy are explored. Current research on the health- and nutrition-related implications of ethnic groups' food choices/practices is reviewed. Engendering cultural sensitivity and competency is at the core of this course.

This is the first course of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for Biology majors, including Biology 21, 22, and 23. It describes how scientists approach the scientific method to generate scientific knowledge; studies the history, evidence, and mechanisms of evolution; identifies the chemistry of four classes of macromolecules; elucidates the cell principle including cell structure, function, and physiology; describes general energy metabolism; and illustrates the processes of growth and reproduction through mitosis, meiosis, development, and life cycles. Students are required to perform at least two experiments that require data collection, computer-based data management and graphing, and scientific analysis and interpretation of data. The course is designed to meet the needs of students transferring to upper division biology study.

This rigorous course provides a basic understanding of physiological mechanisms with a focus on the human body. Basic concepts of cellular physiology, including: molecular control; mechanisms of gene expression; ligand-binding site interactions; energy and cellular metabolism; membrane transport; membrane and action potentials; and cellular communication, including signal transduction, will be integrated within the concept of homeostasis involving the following body systems: nervous, sensory, endocrine, muscle, skeletal, cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, renal, digestive, reproductive, and integumentary. The course content includes both general and clinical applications and is intended to prepare students for advanced courses in Allied Health and Medical professions including Nursing, Physical Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, Physician's Assistant, Pharmacy, and Exercise Science/Kinesiology Training.

This is the second course of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for Biology Majors, Biology 21, 22 and 23. It focuses on the structure, function and transmission of genes from the perspectives of genetics and molecular biology. A strong foundation in genetics and its relationship to molecular biology is developed through problem solving. Students perform experiments that require data analysis and demonstrate interpretations in laboratory reports. Application of Internet databases for bioinformatics is used to show relationships between DNA and protein sequences. The course is designed to meet the needs of students transferring to upper division biology study. It is strongly recommended that students also enroll in Chemistry 21 which is required for transfer. Any online section of BIOL 22 will be taught as a hybrid with all lab meetings scheduled for in-person learning on the SMC campus.

This is the third of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for biology majors. Organisms at and above the cellular level of organization are examined, with plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates receiving equal attention. Topics emphasized include morphology, physiology, systematics, ecology, evolution, and behavior. Additionally, each student must complete a term project which includes lab or fieldwork and library research. Transfer credit is limited if students enroll in other overlapping Biology courses or Zoology 5.

This course will introduce students to the broad spectrum of the biotechnology field and workforce, with content that will be accessible and appropriate to students and professionals from diverse disciplines. This course is designed to prepare students to enter the growing biotechnology workforce or to transfer. Students that complete this course will be eligible to take the Los Angeles Regional Bioscience/Biotechnology Industry-Valued Credential. Topics explored in this course include basic molecular and cellular biology, introductory genetics, biomanufacturing, microbiology, agriculture & bioremediation, chemistry, environmental health & safety, quality assurance & regulation, business, ethics, and biotechnology company structure. These concepts are explored by means of class discussions and projects, reading assignments, and lab activities. The course is intended as preparation for the intermediate and advanced biotechnology skills and methods courses as well as internships. By the end of the course, students should be able to describe the general structure and operating practices for a biotechnology company, demonstrate knowledge of fundamental biotechnology concepts in a molecular biology context, and express understanding of biotechnology applications and ethical practices.

This techniques-focused course will provide knowledge and skills in the use of antibody-related reagents and antibody-based assays as a tool in biotechnology, biomedical research, or clinical laboratories. It focuses on the specific properties of antibody reagents for the identification and quantification of various biological or environmental molecules. Students learn basic immunology, the theoretical basis of antigen-antibody reactions, micropipetting techniques, and how to design, perform, analyze, and troubleshoot modern immunoassay-related techniques. The course will prepare students for work-ready skills in a bioscience research and biotechnology industry career.

Please see Independent Studies section.

Please see Internships section.

This course involves study of several types of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria. Principles of microbiology, metabolism, genetics, immunology, and medical and nonmedical applications are considered. The laboratory includes aseptic transfer techniques, cultural characteristics, methods of microscopy, and analytical techniques for identifying microbial organisms. The course content is related to both general and clinical applications including recent molecular biological and serological techniques.

This course will help individuals to develop knowledge of how to eat healthy for fitness, health and sport. Nutrition and physical assessments will guide the development of these life style skills. The dangers of disordered eating and body dysmorphia will be discussed. Individuals will learn how to evaluate the latest weight loss, fitness and dietary supplement fads.

This general zoology course deals with the major animal groups from protists through vertebrates. Consideration is given to animal form, function, natural history, and behavior. Comparisons are made between groups and are used to stress the principles of evolution, classification, morphology, cell biology, organ system function, genetics, and ecology. Critical and scientific thinking skills are illustrated and developed.