CSU GE Area B2: Life Science

Introduction to plant science including structure, growth processes, propagation, physiology, growth media, biological competitors, and post-harvest factors of food, fiber, and ornamental plants.

An introduction to the concepts of biology. Designed for majors in fields other than biological science, the course investigates the nature of science, cells, genetics, evolution, ecology, and biodiversity. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab: 3 hours weekly.

An examination of the functional anatomy of the human organism. Lectures and laboratories investigate the microscopic and macroscopic structures of the major organ systems.

A study of the functions and interactions of human cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems. Metabolic processes, negative feedback mechanisms, and homeostatic regulation are investigated in both lecture and laboratory sections. Emphasis is on the interaction of physiological processes responsible for the maintenance of normal body functions. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab 3 hours weekly.

An introduction to microorganisms, including morphology, physiology, and growth of bacteria and other microorganisms such as viruses. The role of bacteria and viruses as part of the human microbiome and host defenses against pathogens are emphasized. Laboratory procedures include identification, growth and metabolism of bacteria. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab: 5 hours weekly.

An introductory study of marine organisms and their interactions in marine ecosystems with an emphasis on the organisms and ecosystems of the Central California coast. Several field trips to the marine shore required. 

A study of the nature of life, emphasizing its molecular and cellular aspects of life, particularly cellular reactions as governs organismic metabolism, biological and chemical evolution, and Mendelian genetics. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab: 6 hours weekly.

A survey of the plant kingdom, including structure and functions, heredity, evolution and ecology, economic uses, taxonomic classification, the role of plants in the ecosystem, and important problems common to all plants. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab 6 hours weekly.

Intended for the biology major, an exploration and survey of the animal phyla and non-photosynthetic, single-celled, eukaryotic taxa. Comparative structure, function, and life cycles of animals, as well as principles of evolution, taxonomy, and systematics are covered. Topics include development, morphology and physiology, phylogeny, and behavior of animals, as well as principles of evolution, mechanisms of evolutionary change, and speciation. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab 6 hours weekly.

A scientific approach to the livestock industry encompassing aspects of animal anatomy, physiology, nutrition, genetics and epidemiology. Emphasis on the origin, characteristics, adaptations and contributions of livestock to the modern agriculture industry. Field trips may be required.

An introductory course on the study of human evolution that explores the history of evolutionary thought, the biological basis of life, genetics, population biology, modern human variation, paleontology, primatology and hominid evolution. Important scientific and social issues that relate to biological anthropology will also be presented. Students are encouraged to concurrently enroll in Anthropology 110.

Explores contemporary problems generated by human scientific, social and ethical interaction with the environment. Lectures examine the scope of present environmental problems, possible future impacts, and potential solutions. Topics include human impact on the environment, ecological controversies, ecosystem operation, water and energy perspectives, and values of wilderness preservation. Emphasis is on both local and global dimensions of the above topics.