Biological Sciences

An introduction to scientific and biological principles through the study of humans as exemplary organisms. Lectures and laboratory exercises will explore current scientific issues, develop critical thinking skills, and examine the structure and function of the human body in relation to health and disease.

An introduction to the biology, evolution, and ecology of animals. Topics include chemistry, cell biology, anatomy, physiology, behavior, evolution, classification, genetics, and the diversity of invertebrate and vertebrate organisms.

The major concepts of the biological sciences including biochemistry, cells, evolution, genetics, bioenergetics, microbiology, botany, mycology, zoology, ecology, and biotechnology

Introduction to structure, function, evolution, classification and ecology of plants. Topics
include life history plants, levels of organization, metabolism, form and function, and a
survey of major taxa (including fungi and photosynthetic protists). Laboratory exercises
are coordinated with lecture topics and may include field exercises.

Plant ecology is the study of interrelationships between plants and their environment and informs us about processes behind patterns observed in nature. Within plant ecology we will synthesize information across levels of ecological organization and address plant physiological ecology, population biology, community and ecosystem ecology and biogeography.

This course presents the biological basis for HIV/ AIDS origins and emergence; epidemiology; virus structure and replication; interaction of HIV with the immune system and disease; HIV testing; current prevention, treatment, and cure strategies.

Fundamental concepts of ecology, field observations and experiments applying the scientific method; chemical and energy cycles; effect of physical and biological environment on community structure; diversity and distribution; population dynamics and interspecific reactions; biodiversity of the genetic, species, and ecosystems level and relevant social ecological problems.

This introductory ecology course will study the relationships between organisms and their environment. We will examine species adaptations, population, community and ecosystem ecology, and survey the worlds biomes. We will also evaluate humanities impacts on the living world and explore sustainable solutions.

An investigation of the ecological significance of San Francisco Bay and historical and current abiotic and biotic factors shaping it. Identification of habitats and the adaptations of their key microbial, plant, and animal components.

An examination of abiotic and biotic factors shaping nature in San Francisco. An analysis of plant, animal, and human interactions within diverse habitat types over time.

An investigation of the ecological significance of Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) and the role of historical and current biotic and abiotic factors in shaping it. Observe and describe the diverse habitats and their associated fauna and flora. Highlight management issues that affect the conservation and restoration of these biological and cultural resources.

An investigation of the ecological significance of the Point Reyes National Seashore (PRNS) and the role of historic and current biotic and abiotic factors that shape it. Observation of the diversity of habitats within PRNS and description of their associated fauna and flora.

An investigation of the ecological significance of coastal Mendocino County and historical and current abiotic and biotic factors shaping it. Identification of habitats and the adaptations of their key microbial, plant and animal components.

An investigation of the ecological significance of the San Francisco Bay Delta and historical and current abiotic and biotic factors shaping it. Identification of habitats and the adaptations of their key microbial, plant and animal components.

An examination of ecological issues surrounding agriculture. Analysis of ecosystem services (benefits) provided by sustainable agriculture. Evaluation of different farming methods practiced on local urban farm and how this may relate to personal food choices.

An investigation into coastal patterns and processes that shape marine ecosystems with emphasis on biodiversity. Students will apply ecological concepts during field studies of natural history, adaptations and community dynamics. Course field sites will vary among years from domestic to international locations.

An introductory course analyzing the principles of habitat restoration and habitat restoration techniques. This class will be conducted as a field experience class. The concepts will be developed at specific restoration sites in the San Francisco Bay Area. Students will participate in a restoration activity under the direction of a field ecologist.

The natural history of California marine biota with emphasis on the interrelationships between marine life and their environment.

A laboratory course, utilizing a laboratory/field trip format, designed to reinforce and augment the student's understanding of basic principles of marine biology as taught in BIO 32.

An introduction to the discipline of conservation biology focusing on biodiversity, the
threats to biodiversity from human activities and the practical aspects of conserving
species, habitats and ecosystem function.

Analysis of California's natural geographic, biological, and climatic regions. Examine the basic concepts of ecology and evolution as they relate to the adaptations and distributions of California's plants and animals. Assessment of impacts of modern human society on the California biodiversity hotspot and evaluation of mitigating strategies.

A general survey of the basic principles of genetics and organic evolution with a historical perspective. Classical genetics, molecular genetics, population genetics and evolution, current genetic research and technologies.

Hands-on investigative laboratory experiments encompassing cellular genetics, classical plant and animal genetics, microbial genetics, molecular genetics, biotechnology, forensics, and natural selection.

Basic principles of human genetics. Genetics in development, health and behavior. Family and population genetics. Effects of mutation, assortative mating, and reproductive rates upon gene distribution. Potential advances in human genetic engineering, and the role of genetic counseling.

This course discusses the history of cancer and its molecular and cellular underpinnings. It examines possible causes and progression of cancer, prevention, screening tests, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

College work experience on-campus or with an approved community partner in the fields of biology, ecology, or environmental studies and science under the supervision of an instructor. One unit of credit is earned for 54 hours of unpaid or paid work.

A general introduction to cell structure and function, cell biochemistry, cell cycle, principles of molecular and organismal genetics, genetic engineering, and animal form and function. Intended for students majoring in the biological sciences, but open to all
qualified students.

A general introduction to evolution, the diversity of life, plant form and function, and
ecology. Intended for students majoring in the biological sciences, but open to all
qualified students.

An integrated course covering the fundamental principles of human anatomy and physiology.

Study of the gross and microscopic structure of the human body.

A course in systems physiology with an emphasis on the quantitative aspects of cellular and molecular mechanisms contributing to homeostasis of the human organism. This course is intended for students transferring to four-year institutions and for those entering graduate-level professional allied health programs.

A course in general human physiology which stresses the analysis of normal function of the human body, including the physiology of cells, muscles, the nervous system, sensation, digestion, circulation, respiration, metabolism, excretion, endocrines, and reproduction. This course is intended for students entering allied health professions.

Designed to expose students to topical questions in neural science, this course will
investigate cellular communication, simple reflexes, complex neural networks and
complex behaviors such as consciousness, coordinated movement, emotions, motivation,
and memory. Intended for all students interested in understanding the science behind the
brain.

An introduction to the biology of arthropod organisms, including insects and arachnids. Topics include the biochemistry, cell biology, anatomy, physiology, behavior, evolution, classification, genetics, diversity, and distribution of arthropods and their effects on human populations and public health.

An introduction to the biology of arthropod organisms, including insects and arachnids. Topics include the biochemistry, cell biology, anatomy, physiology, behavior, evolution, classification, genetics, diversity, and distribution of arthropods and their effects on human populations and public health.

A general education course emphasizing the intersection of microbiology, epidemiology, ecology, climate change and public health as they relate to selected emerging diseases that threaten human and animal welfare around the globe. It analyzes the influence of biological, evolutionary, environmental, socio-political, dietary and lifestyle factors on the emergence of "new" (within the past 20 years) diseases, as well as the reemergence of vaccine-preventable and antibiotic-resistant diseases.

This course explores the evolution, structure, function, diversity, and medical importance of microbes and infectious disease agents. Emphasis is placed on the interactions of microbes with the environment, animals, plants, and other microbes in health and disease.

Principles of food-borne illness etiology and transmission; food-borne agents resulting in food spoilage, infections, and poisonings; sanitary, preventive, and managerial practices mandated by public health laws for food service personnel and health inspectors to ensure food safety. Use of fermentation microorganisms in food preparation.

This course prepares culinary professionals for the implementation of food safety practices, maintenance of a safe and hygienic foodservice operation, and oversight and training of hourly food workers to prevent the transmission of foodborne illness. The course content is aligned with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Food Code and prepares certification candidates for any of the nationally-accredited Certified Food Safety Manager Exams.

Nutrition and food concepts relevant to students in the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Programs. Review properties of nutrients, common metabolic and digestive problems and the required diet modifications and treatment.

Emphasis on the practical application of nutrition to everyday life such as planning a healthy diet, assessing one's nutritional food intake, understanding nutritional labels and useful sources for nutrition information. Scientific principles behind the development of Dietary Reference Intakes (DRls) and Food Guidelines.

An introductory nutrition course intended for students interested in entering the allied health fields with emphasis on physiology, metabolism of nutrients, metabolic diseases and dietary modification to optimize recovery and health. Students will understand and evaluate dietary intake, nutritional assessment, and nutrition care commonly used at clinics and hospitals.