Biology

BIO 100: General Biology (Lecture and Lab)

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: Eligibility for ENGL 100.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in BIO 101 and BIO 101L.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

This entry-level course provides a broad perspective of biological concepts and principles. While the course focuses on the human organism, it also emphasizes fundamental themes and basic principles, drawing from a diverse range of unicellular, multicellular, plant, and animal species. These concepts are applied in a real-world context to develop the student's ability to make effective decisions regarding current issues in biology. Topics include the process of scientific inquiry, the structure and function of life, the biochemistry of biomolecules, metabolism and manipulation of energy by plants and animals, cell division, classical and molecular genetics, development, and the evolution and adaptation of living organisms. The laboratory component of this course provides direct participation in experiments, demonstrations, and discussions related to fundamental concepts in biology. Overall, this course develops the student's understanding of body functions, the human's place in nature, and the mechanics of human heredity. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for BIO 100, BIO 101, BIO 103, or BIO 105. No credit for BIO 103 or BIO 105 if taken after BIO 100 or BIO 101, BIO 101L.

BIO 101: General Biology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: Concurrent enrollment in BIO 101L is strongly recommended. Eligibility for ENGL 100.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in BIO 100.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (0401.00)

This entry-level course provides a broad perspective of biological concepts and principles. While the course focuses on the human organism, it also emphasizes fundamental themes and basic principles, drawing from a diverse range of unicellular, multicellular, plant, and animal species. These concepts are applied in a real-world context to develop the student's ability to make effective decisions regarding current issues in biology. Topics include the structure and function of life, metabolism and manipulation of energy by plants and animals, cell division, classical and molecular genetics, development, and the evolution and adaptation of living organisms. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for BIO 100, BIO 101, BIO 103, or BIO 105. No credit for BIO 103 or BIO 105 if taken after BIO 100 or BIO 101, BIO 101L.

BIO 101L: General Biology Laboratory

Units: 1
Prerequisites: BIO 101.
Corequisite: BIO 101 if prerequisite not met.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in BIO 100.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

This laboratory accompaniment to BIO 101 provides direct participation in experiments, demonstrations, and discussions related to fundamental concepts in biology. Topics address the process of scientific inquiry, the biochemistry of biomolecules, cell form and function, energetics, reproduction (both plant and animal), molecular and classical genetics, patterns of inheritance, developmental biology, structure and function at the systems level, homeostatic mechanisms, and the evolutionary ecology of living organisms. This course develops the student's understanding of body functions, the human's place in nature, and the mechanics of human heredity. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for BIO 100, BIO 101, BIO 103, or BIO 105. No credit for BIO 103 or BIO 105 if taken after BIO 100 or BIO 101, BIO 101L.

BIO 102: Ecology and Environmental Biology

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: Eligibility for English 100.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0301.00)

Ecology and Environmental Biology is designed for non-science majors interested in learning about humanity's place in the environment. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the course explores the science of ecology and addresses contemporary environmental problems, such as human population growth, resource use, pollution, and biodiversity losses. Students evaluate sustainable, green solutions at each interval of discussion. The lab component includes field trips to local environmental resources.

BIO 103: Animal Diversity

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in BIO 202.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (0401.00)

This life sciences course challenges students to think critically and demonstrate hypothetico-deductive reasoning within basic biological concepts, such as evolution, ecology, behavior, physiology, and development, while focusing on diversity within the animal kingdom. This course is intended for non-science majors. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for BIO 100, BIO 101, BIO 103, or BIO 105. No credit for BIO 103 or BIO 105 if taken after BIO 100 or BIO 101, BIO 101L.

BIO 105: Genes and Technology in Society

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: Eligibility for ENGL100.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (0401.00)

This introductory course is intended as a general education elective for non-science majors, and for any student interested in learning basic biology as it relates to the emerging field of biotechnology. Topics to be emphasized include fundamental chemical processes common to all cells, an understanding of the chemistry of bio-molecules, cellular and molecular biology, classical and molecular genetics, and the molecular basis of immunology and cancer. Current advances in biotechnology, such as cloning, recombinant DNA technology, and gene therapy will be highlighted along with the applications, social consequences and ethical implications of biology and biotechnology in medicine and agriculture. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for BIO 100, BIO 101, BIO 103, or BIO 105. No credit for BIO 103 or BIO 105 if taken after BIO 100 or BIO 101, BIO 101L.

BIO 105L: Genes and Technology in Society Laboratory

Units: 1
Prerequisites: BIO 105.
Corequisite: BIO 105 if prerequisite not met.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

This laboratory course accompanies and complements Genes and Technology in Society (BIO 105), an introductory course in biology intended for the non-science major and those interested in biology as it relates to the emerging field of biotechnology. Through a combination of laboratory experimentation and analysis, instructor-led demonstration, and group discussion, students reinforce, solidify, and extend their understanding of fundamental chemical processes inherent in biological systems, bio-molecular chemistry, cellular and molecular biology, classical and modern genetics, and the molecular basis of immunology and cancer. In addition, selected laboratories highlight how this fundamental knowledge of biology has been used successfully to drive technological advances in the fields of forensics, medicine, and agriculture in our society.

BIO 130: Natural History of California

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (0401.00)

This course is designed to acquaint students with the diversity of California's natural geographic, biologic, and geologic regions. After introductory units on basic ecology and geomorphology, each of the natural regions of the state is discussed with an emphasis on the common, conspicuous, or unique plants, animals, and geologic features of that district. The course will introduce students to ecological relationships detailing environmental characteristics of each region and the adaptations of organisms to that specific area.

BIO 130L: Natural History of California (Lab)

Units: 1
Prerequisites: BIO 130.
Corequisite: BIO 130 if prerequisite not met.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 3 hours. (0408.00)

An extended field investigation designed to accompany BIO 130. Students will learn field observation and recording techniques, to analyze and interpret data, to identify the dominant plant and animal species of a given region, and to maintain a pressed-plant collection. Field work will be located throughout California likely including, but not limited to: coastal California, the Sierra Nevada, Great Basin, Inyo White Range, and desert systems (Mojave or Colorado). Field exploration may involve overnight camping.

BIO 150: General Botany

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

An introductory biology course focusing on the Plant Kingdom. Plant anatomy will serve as examples of more general biological principles. The topics of cell biology, evolution, ecology, molecular and Mendelian genetics are also covered. This course provides a solid understanding of plants and related organisms which will benefit both the Biology major and non-major student.

BIO 170: Marine Biology

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

This general education Life Science course explores the diversity of marine organisms and introduces basic biological and ecological concepts. The course is designed to create an understanding of the diversity of life in the ocean from bacteria to mammals, the flow of energy through trophic systems, the evolution and adaptation of marine organisms in terms of their functional role in a given habitat, and how physical factors such as tides influence the structure of marine communities. The laboratory portion of the course combines classroom investigation with field exploration introducing local marine institutions and coastal habitats and emphasizing both experimental design and current field sampling.

BIO 172: Marine Ecology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (0401.00)

This general education life science course takes an ecological approach to the study of the marine environment. Topics include the interactions between organisms and their environment, the flow of energy through food webs, the structure of marine communities, and marine environmental sustainability. This course also examines past and present anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems.

BIO 172L: Marine Ecology Laboratory

Units: 1
Prerequisites: BIO 172
Corequisite: BIO 172 if prerequisite not met.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

This course takes a hands-on approach to studying ecology principles using marine intertidal and subtidal communities. The structure and dynamics of marine habitats will be explored using field observation and experimental techniques. Field explorations may involve overnight camping and water activities.

BIO 180: Biostatistics

Units: 4
Prerequisites: MATH 101 or MATH 101B with a grade of C or better or qualification through the Math Competency Exam or approved equivalent.
Advisory: BIO 101 or BIO 100.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in BTEC 180, BIO 180, PSYC 104 or SOC 104.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

This introductory statistics course covers the principles and practice of statistical design and analysis for scientific experimentation. Topics include hypothesis formation, experimental design and execution, data analysis, and communication with application to scientific fields, such as the biological and health sciences. The course includes laboratory application with extensive use of computer software for statistical analysis and simulation. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for BIO/BTEC 180, MATH 103, or PSYC/SOC 104.

BIO 190: Survey of Human Musculoskeletal System

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Lecture 1 hour. (0401.00)

This course examines the anatomy and physiology of the human musculoskeletal system emphasizing interaction between skeletal muscles and bones for stability and movement. It addresses gross and microscopic study of major bones, muscle groups, and joints in the human body, along with their actions. It uses human skeletons, cadavers, models, and the computer-based A.D.A.M. Interactive Anatomy program. This course is designed for students in selected Occupational Health programs.

BIO 202: Foundations of Biology: Evolution, Biodiversity, and Organismal Biology

Units: 4
Prerequisites: MATH 101 or MATH 101B with a grade of C or better or qualification through the Math Competency Exam or approved equivalent.
Advisory: Completion of college-level coursework in biology with focus at organismal or populational level, e.g. BIO 100, BIO 101, BIO 102, BIO 103, BIO 150, BIO 170, or BIO 220.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

BIO 202 and 204 make up a comprehensive lower-division biological foundation for science majors, which is strongly recommended for all students transferring to four-year institutions as biology/biochemistry majors, or in a different major but following a pre-medical/pre-veterinary track. The two courses need not be taken in sequence. BIO 202 surveys the organismal/meta-organismal half of biological disciplines and covers topics including the taxonomy and physiology of protists, fungi, and plants; the taxonomy, developmental biology, and physiology of animals; single-species population dynamics of interspecies interactions in communities. The laboratory emphasizes comparative anatomy/physiology of plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates, phylogeny reconstruction, life history evolution, and surveys of ecological habitats through field studies. Prospective biology majors should note that this course is offered every semester and may be taken concurrently with CHEM 110 (the prerequisite for BIO 204).

BIO 204: Foundations of Biology: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, and Molecular Biology

Units: 4
Prerequisites: CHEM 110.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

BIO 204 and BIO 202 make up a comprehensive lower-division biological foundation for science majors, which is strongly recommended for all students transferring to four-year institutions as biology/biochemistry majors, or in a different major but following a pre-medical/pre-veterinary track. The two courses need not be taken in sequence. BIO 204 surveys the molecular half of biological disciplines and covers topics including biological molecules, metabolic biochemistry, cell biology, and a wide range of genetic fields. The laboratory emphasizes classical and modern methods in molecular biology and experimental design.

BIO 210: Human Anatomy

Units: 4
Prerequisites: BIO 100, BIO 101, or NURS 151 or a minimum 3-unit course in biology that includes curriculum which presents principles of cellular life.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 6 hours. (0410.00)

This course follows a systemic approach by combining microscopic studies of tissues (histology) and organs along with gross/visual anatomical studies of the human body. Students learn dissection techniques by working with preserved mammalian specimens, including human cadavers. Because the course presents applied clinical situations, it is recommended for students majoring in the allied health field, massage therapy, kinesiology, and physical education.

BIO 220: Human Physiology

Units: 4
Prerequisites: BIO 100, BIO 101, BIO 204, or BIO 210.
Advisory: CHEM 100 or CHEM 104.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0410.00)

Introduction to the physiology of the human organism. Emphasis will be on integration of the body systems and the inter-relationships for maintaining homeostasis. Biochemical and cellular concepts are presented, and the practical applications of these concepts -- in health, disease, and exercise physiology -- are presented in sufficient detail to stimulate interest and improve the transfer of knowledge from the classroom to the professional arena. Designed for students majoring in pre-medicine, pre-nursing, allied health fields, and physical education.

BIO 230: Fundamentals of Microbiology

Units: 5
Prerequisites: BIO 220, CHEM 100, CHEM 104, CHEM 108, or CHEM 110.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 6 hours. (0403.00)

This course examines the fundamental concepts of life to provide students, especially those majoring in a medical/biotechnical field, with a working knowledge of microbiology and its special techniques. Students learn about bacteria, fungi, protists, and viruses as well as pathogenicity and immunology of important medical organisms. Topics include the history, morphology, and physiology of microbes and techniques for isolating, culturing, identifying, and controlling bacteria.

BIO 290: Human Dissection Laboratory

Units: 1
Prerequisites: BIO 210.
Laboratory 3 hours. (0401.00)

This supervised study of human dissection techniques includes a review of dissection procedures as well as practical experience with human cadavers. The course follows a regional approach to human anatomy and covers all major muscle groups, organs, nerves, and blood vessels of the body. It is intended for students who are interested in medical careers, pathology, and normal anatomy of the human body.

BIO 292: Internship Studies

Units: 0.5-3
Prerequisites: Complete 6 units at MCC prior to internship; permission of instructor and department chair required.
Corequisite: Must currently be enrolled in 3 units and complete 60 hours of non-paid or 75 hours of paid work per unit of credit.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
(0401.00)

Individualized study linking classroom learning to the workplace. Approval form must be signed by instructor and department chair before registration. (May be taken for a total of 12 units.)

BIO 293: Topics in Biology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Repeatability Rule: Allow four completions in any combination of BIO 293, BIO 296.
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours. (0401.00)

A study of relevant topics in the discipline not covered in the current selection of courses. Designed to meet special needs; content determined by participating faculty members in consultation with students and the community. Non-transfer topics only.

BIO 296: Topics in Biology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Repeatability Rule: Allow four completions in any combination of BIO 293, BIO 296.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours. (0401.00)

A study of relevant topics in the discipline not covered in the current selection of courses. Designed to meet special needs; content determined by participating faculty members in consultation with students and the community.

BIO 298: Directed Studies in Biology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and department chair.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Laboratory 3 hours.
Laboratory 6 hours.
Laboratory 9 hours. (0401.00)

Individualized study, project or research in area of particular interest to the student and not included in the regular courses of the college. Approval form must be signed by instructor and department before registration. (May be taken for a total of 3 units.)

BIO 299: Cooperative Work Experience--Occupational

Units: 1-4
Prerequisites: None

For students whose work is directly related to occupational instructional program. To participate in work experience, you must have an on-the-job learning station which will provide for new or expanded responsibilities or learning opportunities relating to your occupational major. Formerly WKEX 224.