Lower Division | Upper Division

Courses Taught at Rosario Beach Marine Station

Lower Division

BIOL 111 General Biology I (4)
Introduction to life and its processes. Includes basic biological chemistry, the biology of the cell (including membranes, respiration, communication, and division), genes and inheritance, genomes, DNA, and the genetic basis of development.

BIOL 111L General Biology I Laboratory (1)
One three-hour laboratory per week, presenting experimental aspects of the topics presented in BIOL 111. To be taken concurrently with BIOL 111.

BIOL 112 General Biology II (4)
Science-based evidence for the origin of biological diversity, speciation, phylogeny, and systematics. Descriptions of vertebrate and invertebrate diversity. Includes the principles of animal form and function, nutrition, circulation, immunity, excretion, hormones, reproduction, development, and neuronal systems.

BIOL 112L General Biology II Laboratory (1)
One three-hour laboratory per week, presenting experimental aspects of the topics presented in BIOL 112. To be taken concurrently with BIOL 112.

BIOL 113 General Biology III (4)
Introduction to plant biology, including photosynthesis, evolution, transport, nutrition, reproduction, and environmental responses. Additionally includes basic ecological principles and processes and behavioral ecology.

BIOL 113L General Biology III Laboratory (1)
One three-hour laboratory per week, presenting experimental aspects of the topics presented in BIOL 113. To be taken concurrently with BIOL 113.

BIOL 107 Human Biology (4)
The human being as an integrated organism; systems of the body; the basis of healthful living. Four class hours per week. Not open to students who have taken any other course in physiology or to students majoring in Biology.

BIOL 131 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (5)
A systematic approach to the integrated study of human anatomy and physiology. Designed primarily for students in associate and baccalaureate degree programs in allied health and nursing. Topics covered are: organization of the body, cells, tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system. Four class hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Does not apply toward a major in biology.

BIOL 132 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (5)
A systematic approach to the integrated study of human anatomy and physiology. Designed primarily for students in associate and baccalaureate degree programs in allied health and nursing. Topics covered are: special senses, endocrine system, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, and reproductive system. Four class hours and one threehour laboratory per week. Does not apply toward a major in biology. Prerequisite: BIOL 131.

BIOL 185 Basic Medical Microbiology (5)
Surveys human pathogens and diseases and provides a medicine-based overview of related concepts, such as bacterial metabolism and reproduction, drugs and drug resistance, and basic immunology. For students expecting to enter the allied health sciences (nursing, dental hygiene, physical therapy, etc.). Four class hours and three laboratory hours per week. Does not apply toward a major in biology.

BIOL 221 Tools and Methods I (1)
This is an introductory laboratory methods course which develops student skills in notebook journaling, experimental design, problem solving, and biotechniques. The students will learn to determine protein concentrations using protein concentration curves, separate and determine MW of proteins using the SDS-PAGE and also measure enzyme activity. Students will learn to do calculations to make solutions, use balances and pH meters and also become proficient in the use of spectrophotometers and centrifuges. The course is one unit, meets for a three-hour time period once per week.

BIOL 222 Tools and Methods II (1)
This laboratory course builds in information presented in Tools and Methods I. In addition to the laboratory skills developed in BIOL 221, particular interest is given to techniques and concepts in microbiology and molecular biology. Students will learn the Gram stain method, bacterial transformation, DNA electrophoresis, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and aseptic techniques for performing transfers in microbiology and molecular biology. Students will also be introduced to the principles of the scientific method and experimental design. The course is one unit, meets for a three-hour time period once per week. Prerequisite: BIOL 221.

BIOL 223 Tools and Methods III (1)
This course instructs students in methods of scientific study. Initially, students are presented with a number of different approaches which will be discussed by faculty to study particular phenomena; students will develop hypotheses and then take measurements to test their hypothesis. The use of appropriate controlled variables and methods of graphical presentation will be discussed. A brief introduction to statistical methods will be included so that appropriate methods and sample sizes can be proposed. Students will then be guided in the development of a hypothesis-based research proposal, do a literature search then write and present a research proposal. The course is one unit and meets for a three-hour time period once a week. Prerequisite: BIOL 222.

BIOL 295 Undergraduate Research (1-4)
Original investigation pursued under the direction of a faculty member. Limited to freshman and sophomores with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. 1-3 credits will be graded S/U. Four credits will receive letter grades. Four credits maximum.

BIOL 299 Directed Study (1-4)
Taught on an arranged basis.
Prerequisite: Consent of the Biology Department Chair, and arrangement with an instructor. Four credits maximum.

Upper Division

With the exception of BIOL 327, in addition to other listed prerequisites for each upper division course, a successfully completed sequence in General Biology (BIOL 111, 111L, 112, 112L, 113, 113L) is required. The General Biology prerequisites may be waived by consent of the instructor for pre-professional students wishing to take BIOL 434 or 446.

BIOL 301 Cell and Molecular Biology (4)
The basic concepts of current molecular and cell biology, including cellular regulation, function, and control; processing of information; and cell organelle function and processes. Introduction to the techniques used in modern cell and molecular biology, and their application to answer questions about the cell. Prerequisite: CHEM 371.

BIOL 301L Cell and Molecular Biology Projects Laboratory (1)
Investigation-based laboratories designed for student research experience. Projects will focus on methods of modern cell biology, and will draw from techniques learned in the Tools and Methods labs (BIOL 221, 222, 223). Two to four weeks devoted to demonstration laboratories and the remaining laboratory time dedicated to the development and execution of the discipline-related project. To be taken concurrently with BIOL 301. Prerequisite: BIOL 221, 222, 223.

BIOL 302 Genetics (4)
Principles of genetic analysis of viruses, bacteria, and eukaryotes; molecularly based but includes classical concepts. Prerequisite: BIOL 301, 301L.

BIOL 302L Genetics Project Laboratory (1)
Investigation-based laboratories designed for student research experience. Projects will focus on methods of modern genetics, and will draw from techniques learned in the Tools and Methods labs (BIOL 221, 222, 223). Two to four weeks devoted to demonstration laboratories and the remaining laboratory time dedicated to the development and execution of a discipline-related project. To be taken concurrently with BIOL 302. Prerequisite: BIOL 301, 301L.

BIOL 303 Developmental Biology (4)
Molecular and genetic mechanisms of gametogenesis, fertilization, morphogenesis, differentiation, and regeneration. Processes of development caused by cell and molecular interactions, under the control of gene expression. Prerequisite: BIOL 302, 302L.

BIOL 303L Developmental Biology Projects Laboratory (1)
Investigation-based laboratories designed for student research experience. Projects will focus on methods of modern developmental biology, and will draw from techniques learned in the Tools and Methods labs (BIOL 221, 222, 223). Two to four weeks devoted to demonstration laboratories and the remaining laboratory time dedicated to the development and execution of a discipline-related project. To be taken concurrently with BIOL 303. Prerequisite: BIOL 302, 302L.

BIOL 327 Survey of Biological Principles (4)
An introduction to basic biological processes, this course is designed to give the student a modern treatment of the fundamental processes and principles of living organisms. This is an interdisciplinary study focusing on the biological paradigm, built on the fundamental principles of Chemistry, Physics and Biology. Does not apply toward a major in Biology.

BIOL 350 Colloquium I (0.5)
Junior-level departmental seminar course involving invited speakers who will present the results of their current research. S/U grade based on documented attendance of a minimum of 6 seminars. Attendance at six colloquia is required per half-unit of enrollment. May be registered for only only once.

BIOL 376 Biostatistics (4)
Statistical analysis of biological systems, including both parametric and nonparametric methods.

BIOL 389 Topics in Biology (4)
Courses on various current topics in biological science, specifically designed for non-majors. The student may repeat different sections of the course for additional credit. Typically taught as evening class. Does not apply toward a major in biology.

BIOL 405 Biology Seminar (2)
Recent developments and current topics in selected areas of modern biology. May be repeated for a total of 4 units.

BIOL 408 Biology of Marine Invertebrates (4)
An introduction to the biology of the invertebrate phyla. Treatment organized phylogenetically and covers a broad spectrum of current knowledge about the biology of individual representatives of marine invertebrate organisms. Three class hours, one three-hour laboratory per week, with extended field trips substituting for some labs. Offered occasionally.

BIOL 410 Science at the Cutting Edge (2)
The flow of scientific information from the research laboratory to textbooks and the popular media. The presentation of current research and its integration into the body of knowledge. Requires attendance at minimum of one national scientific meeting within the Southern California area. Limited class size. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

BIOL 414 General Ecology (4)
Basic concepts concerning the relationships of organisms to their environment. Emphasis on physiological responses of individuals, structure, and dynamics of populations, interactions between species, and the structure, dynamics and functions of communities and ecosystems. Includes equivalent of one three-hour laboratory per week. May substitute for BIOL 415. Taught alternate years.

BIOL 415 Environmental Science (4)
Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary study of how the physical, chemical and biological conditions of the earth work, and how we are affecting the earth’s life-support systems (the environment).  This course introduces students to the very complex interlocking environmental problems facing us today.  Beginning with basic ecological principles, the course goes on to examine population dynamics, energy utilization, resource consumption, the various forms of pollution, and conservation methods to preserve our natural resources, natural areas, and native species. This is a Service-Learning course and includes a three-hour laboratory period per week. May substitute for BIOL 414. Taught alternate years.

BIOL 434 Histology (4)
Descriptive and functional analysis of normal human tissues and organs. Three class hours, and one three-hour laboratory per week.

BIOL 436 Immunology (4)
Consideration of the diverse roles of the vertebrate immune system with special attention to events that occur at the level of cellular communication and signaling. The immune response against cancer and the interaction of the immune system with the central nervous system will be explored. The components of the immune response will be developed in light of available experimental evidence, and immunology will be presented as an investigative science.

BIOL 439 Neurobiology (4)
An advanced course on the functions of the mammalian nervous system. Neuronal substrates of behavior including perception, motivation, emotion, memory, consciousness, abnormal thought and behavior are explored. Genetic correlates of behavior also considered. Identical to PSYC 452. Prerequisite: BIOL 466.

BIOL 446 Human Gross Anatomy (5)
An intensive, basic course in clinically-oriented human anatomy, including laboratory study of the human cadavar. Three class hours and two three-hour laboratories per week. Prerequisite: General Biology prerequisite may be waived by instructor.

BIOL 450 Colloquium II (0.5)
Senior-level departmental seminar course involving invited speakers who will present the results of their current research. S/U grade based on documented attendance of a minimum of 6 seminars. Attendance at six colloquia is required per half unit of enrollment. May be registered for once only. Prerequisite: BIOL 350.

BIOL 466 Systems Physiology (4)
Current concepts and principles of the mechanisms and processes of body function and the regulation of its internal environment. Topics include respiration, circulation, membrane transport, nervous integration, metabolic regulation, hormonal control, nutrition, and reproduction. Three class hours, one three-hour laboratory per week.

BIOL 467 Herpetology (4)
Identification, evolution, biogeography and life history of amphibians and reptiles. Three class hours per week and one three-hour laboratory per week.

BIOL 469 Animal Behavior (4)
A survey of basic principles and classic studies underlying the science of animal behavior. Behavior is presented as a manifestation of the structure and function of animals, subject to rigorous analysis and experimentation and based on objective data.

BIOL 474 Microbiology (4)
Biology of bacteria, viruses, protozoans and other microorganisms, and their interactions with their environment. Includes surveys of microbial adaptation and taxonomy, human-microbe relationships, environmental and industrial microbiology. Three class hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: BIOL301 (can be concurrently enrolled), or consent of instructor.

BIOL 485 Systematic Botany (4)
Classification of vascular plants with emphasis on flowering plants. Three class hours and one three-hour laboratory or the equivalent per week.

BIOL 486 Topics in Biology (1-4)
Reviews specific areas of biological science, offered at the discretion of the department. The student may repeat different sections of the course for additional credit. Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor. Four credits maximum.

BIOL 487 Field Studies in Biology (1-5)
Field courses offered at the discretion of the department. Recent examples include BIOL 487C (4 units), Natural History of Baja California, and BIOL 487E (5 units), Tropical Field Biology/Tioman. Normally offered during the summer. Involves a considerable amount of travel and fieldwork. Repeats of different sections may be approved for additional credit. Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

BIOL 495 Undergraduate Research (1-4)
Original investigation pursued under the direction of a faculty member. Limited to students with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and upper division status. 1-3 credits will be graded S/U. Four and more credits will receive letter grades. Students may repeat BIOL 495 for up to 10 credits, under the following circumstances: for 4 credits and for repeat credits (4-10), a formal proposal prepared by the student will be reviewed and approved by the biology faculty, and a progress report submitted by the student at the end of the quarter. Students taking 10 credits of BIOL 495 may elect to substitute these for up to 2 credits of required courses with the suffix “L” and 8 credits of electives. Prerequisite: Formal agreement with the supervising instructor.

BIOL 499 Directed Study (1-4)
Independent project, not involving original research, taught on an arranged basis. Prerequisite: Consent of the Biology Department Chair and arrangement with an instructor. Four credits maximum.

UNST 404B Religious, Moral, and Social Aspects of Biology (4)
Department’s capstone course, dealing with current philosophical issues in biology. Prerequisite: Biology major with senior standing..

Please contact the Biology department directly if you have questions.