areas of study
- Anatomy
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Dance
- Environmental Science
- Geography
- Geology
- Health
- Microbiology
- Physical Education
- Physical Science
- Physics
- Physiology
Department Labs
The department has five labs located in the Academic Village (AV):
- Microbiology Lab: AV 120 | Professor Erum Syed
- Biology Labs: AV122 and AV123 | Mr. Kim and Dr. Roberts
- Physics and Biology Lab: AV124 | Dr. Pogban Toure
- Chemistry and Geology Lab: AV125 | Dr. Dooce
- Chemistry Lab: AV126 | Dr. Pogban Toure
1 Introduction to Human Anatomy (4) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5B
CSU-GE Area B2 and B3
Prerequisite: None.
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 3 hours
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to identify and describe the major structural characteristics of the cells, tissues, and organs comprising the following systems of the human body: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and endocrine systems. Using anatomical terminology, the student will also be able to describe the major locations of the major tissues and organs of these systems.
Note: This course, when taken with Physiology 1, is equivalent to Biology 20.
3 Introduction to Biology (4) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5B
CSU-GE Area B2 and B3
Prerequisite: None
Lecture:3 hours; Lab: 3 hours
In this course the student will identify and describe the basic characteristics of life through the concepts of cell structure and function, energy interrelationships, information transfer and duplication, reproduction and development, evolution, ecology, and adaptation. The student will also be able to apply the concepts to related laboratory exercises, current and historical literature, and discussions of the effect of humans on the environment.
5 Introduction to Human Biology (4) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5B
CSU-GE Area B2 and B3
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 3 hours
The course includes basic biological principles as they apply to humans. The course will provide a foundation for advanced courses in Human Anatomy, Physiology and Microbiology. Topics will include human structure, function, heredity, development, evolution, ecology, disease, and bio-ethics.
6 General Biology I (5) UC:CSU
(Offered in the Fall semester only)
IGETC AREA 5B
CSU-GE Area B2 and B3
Prerequisite: Math 125
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 6 hours
In this course the student learns to identify and describe basic physiological processes of living things, basic cellular and subcellular organization, and morphology and diversity of major plant phyla. The student will also learn to apply the principles of genetics to the analysis of natural selection, population studies, and speciation.
7 General Biology II (5) UC:CSU
(Offered in the Spring semester only)
IGETC AREA 5B
CSU-GE Area B2 and B3
Prerequisite: Math 125
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 6 hours
In this course the student learns to identify and describe the comparative morphology of the major animal phyla; morphology and physiology of the major organ systems; and the reproduction, growth, and development of organisms. The student will also learn to apply the principles of ecology, behavior, and adaptation to the analysis of plant and animal ecosystems.
20 Human Anatomy and Physiology (8) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5B
CSU-GE Area B2 and B3
Prerequisite: Biology 3 or Biology 5
Lecture: 6 hours; Lab: 6 hours
This course systematically integrates the fundamentals of
human anatomy with the fundamentals of cellular as well as organ system physiology. Instruction and laboratory
procedures (observation, experimentation, and dissection) are designed to provide a solid foundation in the anatomy, histology, and physiology of the eleven organ systems of the human body.
Note: This single course is equivalent to both Anatomy 1 and Physiology 1 taken together.
33 Medical Terminology (3) CSU
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 Hours
As a result of this survey course, students will be able to use the vocabulary appropriate to typical medical practice and medical specialties. Emphasis is placed on fundamental structure, pronunciation and spelling, as well as the use of standard medical dictionaries and references.
285 Directed Study – Biology (2) CSU (PASS/NO PASS)
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 2 hous
This is a Credit/No Credit or Pass/No Pass companion course for biological science courses. It will provide students the opportunity to improve their comprehension and further develop study and investigative skills necessary for success in the biological sciences. This course will be offered under the supervision of a Biology faculty member.
Student Learning Outcome: Upon completion of the majority of these courses, students should be able to:
1) Using problem-solving skills, solve problems related to chemistry.
2) Interpret, predict and use Chemical reactions.
3) Name chemical compounds
4) Perform laboratory methods, follow chemical procedures, maintain a laboratory notebook and write a lab report.
5) Determine and analyze chemical structures using spectroscopy, and predict physical and chemical properties.
51 Fundamentals of Chemistry I (5) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5A
CSU-GE Area B1 and B3
Corequisite: Math 115 or previous enrollment
Lecture: 4 hours; Lab: 3 hours
This introductory course, which emphasizes the principles of inorganic chemistry, is an introduction to elementary organic and biological chemistry. It is planned primarily for non-science majors.
101 General Chemistry I (5) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5A
CSU-GE Area B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Chemistry 51 and Math 125
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 6 hours
This course covers atomic theory and stoichiometry, states of matter, thermochemistry, and equilibrium. The study of gases, liquids and solutions, equilibria in gases and solutions, solubility and chemical bonding are also included in this course of study.
Note: This course may not be offered each semester. Consult the current class schedule.
102 General Chemistry II (5) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5A
CSU-GE Area B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Chemistry 101
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 6 hours
This course offers a study of principles related to properties of liquids, solids, and mixtures. Also covered are kinetics, chemical equilibrium and thermodynamics, acids and bases, and electrochemistry. The laboratory provides experience in inorganic qualitative analysis based upon content from lecture.
Note: This course may not be offered each semester. Consult the current class schedule.
211 Organic Chemistry for Science Majors I (5) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5A
CSU-GE Area B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Chemistry 102
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 6 hours
This course is a systematic introduction to the chemistry of carbon-containing compounds. It encompasses theory and chemistry of hydrocarbons and functional group derivatives. Topics included are bonding and structure, nomenclature, stereochemistry, synthesis, and reaction mechanisms. The laboratory work focuses on techniques of synthesis, isolation, purification and instrument analysis of organic compounds.
Note: This course may not be offered each semester. Consult the current class schedule.
212 Organic Chemistry for Science Majors II (5) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5A
CSU-GE Area B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Chemistry 211
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 6 hours
This course is a continuation of the study of organic compounds that started with Chemistry 211. Emphasis is placed on the synthesis of organic compounds and mechanisma of organic reactions. Topics on organic molecules of biological importance such as amino acids, peptides and carbohydrates are also covered. The laboratory work focuses on the synthesis, isolation, purification, and instrumental analysis of organic compounds.
Note: This course may not be offered each semester. Consult the current class schedule.
431 Modern Dance (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
Modern Dance is a creative movement class with an emphasis on rhythmic movements, isolated movement, free expression, and improvisation. Techniques are learned to develop coordination, flexibility, and cardiovascular strength through movement phrases using locomotor and axial movements and combinations thereof. Creative activities will include exploration, improvisation, and elementary composition.
434 Ballet (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This class offers instruction and preparation in the skill of classical ballet.
437 Jazz Dance (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course offers instruction and preparation in the skill of jazz dance.
814 Dance Production I (2) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 1 hour; Activity: 2 hours
This course provides laboratory experience in developing skills in dance production technique, choreography, set design, lighting, directing and costume design. The course also serves as a workshop for LASC Dance Company for concerts and dance-related productions.
1 The Human Environment: Physical Processes (3) UC:CSU
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours
This course introduces students to the physical processes that govern our life support systems and the social, political and economic factors that impact them. The basic science required to understand how our environmental systems work is presented. Topics discussed include the atmosphere, soils and agriculture, water resources and water pollution, sources of pollution and management of wastes, energy supply and usage, and alternative energy sources. Impacts of man's activities on environmental systems are presented and discussed. Finally, potential solutions to reduce or eliminate these impacts are described.
23 Pollution Prevention And Waste Minimization (3) CSU
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours
This course provides an introduction to the principles of pollution prevention and waste minimization. Students will be introduced to the federal and state of California laws, and
concepts of sustainability and resources recovery. Quantities and types of wastes generated in the United States and methods of managing the wastes generated (advantages and disadvantages) will be covered, including landfill disposal, materials recovery and incineration. Federal, state and local programs to prevent, reduce and recycle wastes will be introduced and discussed. Students will apply the principles presented in class to develop a pollution prevention/waste minimization plan.
25 Principles of Wastewater Technology (3) CSU
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours
This course covers the basic principles of wastewater technology. Topics covered include: regulatory framework; wastewater collection systems; industrial and municipal wastewater characteristics; primary, secondary and tertiary treatment processes; solids management and disinfection processes; and wastewater reuse options.
1 Physical Geography (3) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5A
CSU-GE Area B1
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours
This course explores the physical elements of geography. Topics include the basic characteristics of the physical environment, utilization of maps, elements of weather and climate, the interrelationship of climate, vegetation, and soils, the spatial distribution of landforms of the surface of the earth, plate tectonics, weathering, karst topography, mass wasting, and the impact of streams, wind, glaciers, and ocean processes on earth materials.
2 Cultural Elements of Geography (3) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 4
CSU-GE Area D5
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours
The basic ecological, historical, spatial, and cultural impact of man on the Earth’s surface is studied through a survey of man’s exploration of territories, use of resources, organization of people and space, and cultural diversity. Emphasis will be on the power of humans to change the landscape and affect their future and the perception of cultural landscape. It is of general interest to the traveling public.
1 Physical Geology (3) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5A
CSU-GE Area B1
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours
This course offers an introductory study of the earth, including discussion of minerals and rocks and how they form. Earth processes, such as volcanic activity, weathering, earthquakes, plate tectonics and mountain building are covered. The course examines features of the earth, such as rivers, deserts, glaciers, shorelines, and the ocean floor. Geologic time and earth history are also discussed.
Note: Optional field trips included.
6 Physical Geology Laboratory (2) UC:CSU
IGETC AREA 5A
CSU-GE Area B3
Corequisite: Geology I or previous enrollment.
Lecture: 1 hour; Lab: 2 hours
This course is the laboratory for Geology 1. It provides a hands-on investigation in greater depth of topics covered in Geology 1, such as topography, minerals, rocks, earthquakes, plate tectonics, and geologic time.
11 Principles of Healthful Living (3) UC:CSU
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: None
Lecture 3 hours
This course offers concepts to use as guidelines for self-directed responsible living. Health topics cover emotional and mental health, nutrition and obesity, drug abuse, cardiovascular fitness, chronic and communicable diseases, reproduction, consumerism, environmental health, and death/dying.
12 Safety Education and First Aid (3) UC:CSU
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours
This course provides instruction in the Emergency Response System, creation of an emergency action plan, and assessment and immediate treatment given to a person who has been injured or has suddenly taken ill. Legal considerations and lifesaving procedures (e.g., use of automated external defibrillators and CPR for infants, children and adults) are covered. Upon successful completion of the course, students are eligible for certification in First Aid and CPR by the American Red Cross.
1 Introductory Microbiology (5) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5B
CSU-GE Areas B2 and B3
Prerequisite: Chemistry 51 and (Biology 3 or Physiology I or Biology 5)
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 6 hours
This course utilizes the theoretical approach to the study of microorganisms and offers the student a comprehensive knowledge of the fundamentals of microbiology. It includes an introduction to the history of microbiology; classifications and identification of microorganisms; physiology and biology (nutrition, metabolism, growth, variability, etc) of microorganisms; microbiology of air, water, soil, food, sewage; industrial and medical microbiology. Laboratory experiments using appropriate techniques and methods of handling and investigating microorganisms are introduced in order to reinforce the lectures.
Enrollment in these courses is limited in any similar activity to a maximum of three repeats for a total of four (4) enrollments, regardless of the repeatability of individual courses. The activity limitation also applies to courses which are not repeatable in themselves but for which similar activities exist. For example, there are several course titles in Art, Music, Theater, and Physical Education which are considered to be the same activity. A student may enroll four times in courses which are considered to be the same activity, such as twice in PHYS Ed 228 (RPT3), and twice in PHYS ED 229, Body Conditioning (RPT3). Any combination may be used as long as 4 enrollments in one activity are not exceeded. Not all courses are offered each semester; there are materials fees for some. There are no prerequisites for Activity Courses except as otherwise noted.
Activity in each course is 2 to 3 hours per week.
101 Swimming - Non-Swimmer (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course is designed to teach the beginning skills of swimming: front crawl, elementary backstroke, sidestroke, racing backstroke, and breaststroke. The course will introduce the principles and strategies of swimming endurance. Students will be able to perform the basic strokes, know the rules that govern the different strokes, understand the nutrition and injury prevention strategies for swimming.
102 Swimming Skills (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
Students learn and refine their swimming skills for each stroke, including kicking, arm stroke, proper breathing techniques, body position, diving, and rhythm of stroke. The student will also learn water safety skills.
131 Aqua Aerobics (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 3 hours
This is an aerobic physical program employing water resistive exercises without the need of swimming skills. This class is designed to help promote cardiovascular and muscular fitness.
170 Walking for Fitness (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course focuses on achieving cardiovascular fitness and a healthy lifestyle through walking. Course topics include shoe selection, posture, gait, walking styles, flexibility, clothing, creating a walking program, and assessing fitness level.
225 Yoga Skills (1) CSU RPT 3
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course is an introduction to basic yoga practices and principles. Instruction includes yoga postures and poses and guided meditation to develop balance, flexibility, and strength. Students will explore controlled breathing techniques to increase focus and concentration. Yoga promotes mental, physical, and spiritual fitness.
228 Body Conditioning (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course uses a variety of aerobic and anaerobic exercises to help the student achieve fitness and establish a workout program they can use for the rest of their life. Exercises are drawn from a number of different sources such as aerobics, dance, and weight training.
229 Body Dynamics (1) UC:CSU, RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course is designed to provide challenging fitness activities by combining resistant exercises with endurance exercises. Emphasis is placed on aerobic activity and resistant exercises based on individual age and physical condition. Nutrition, diet and body mechanics will also be discussed.
230 Weight Training Skills (1) UC:CSU
RPT 3
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course emphasizes the knowledge, understanding and values of weight training and its role in developing muscular strength and endurance. Students will learn fundamental weight and resistance training skills and techniques and will create their own weight training program based upon multiple dimensions of health and fitness. Proper form and safety will be stressed.
238 Self-Defense Skills (1) UC:CSU RPT3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course covers self-defense skills, safety precautions, and the promotion of mental and physical wellbeing. Defense against rape and other physical attacks are also demonstrated.
304 Basketball Skills (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course offers instruction and practice in the fundamentals and basic techniques of basketball. Instruction will include proper techniques and body placement, balance and footwork when dribbling, passing, catching, and shooting the basketball.
310 Flag/Touch Football Skills (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Activity: 2 hours
Prerequisite: None
Basic skills of punting, passing, catching and carrying the football are taught. Instruction includes foot placement, positioning for blocking, tackling, ball handling (offense & defense), change of direction associated with accelerating and decelerating, hand and finger position for passing and catching the football. A balance of skill and game development is developed through flag football games. Open to all ability levels.
431 Modern Dance (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
Modern Dance is a creative movement class with an emphasis on rhythmic movements, isolated movement, free expression, and improvisation. Techniques are learned to develop coordination, flexibility, and cardiovascular strength through movement phrases using locomotor and axial movements and combinations thereof. Creative activities will include exploration, improvisation, and elementary composition.
434 Ballet (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This class offers instruction and preparation in the skill of classical ballet.
437 Jazz Dance (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 2 hours
This course offers instruction and preparation in the skill of jazz dance.
Intercollegiate Sports Activities – Men, Women, and Coed.
Activity 10 hours or more a week in each sport, except as noted.
Must pass a medical examination by an MD prior to any practice or engaging in competitive sports or issue of equipment.
504 Intercollegiate Sports - Basketball (3) UC:CSU RPT2
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 10 hours
This course is designed to develop individual and team skills in basketball so that the student can compete on the intercollegiate level. Basketball theory, strategies, offense, defense, ball-handling skills (including passing, dribbling, shooting, rebounding), individual and team offense/defense and basketball intercollegiate competition experiences are emphasized.
508 Intercollegiate Sports – Football (3) UC:CSU RPT1
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 10 hours
As an intercollegiate athletic competitive football team course, advanced skills for blocking, tackling, ball carrying (offense & defense), running, change in direction, accelerating and decelerating and placement of hands and fingers on football are emphasized.
552 Athletic Pre-Season Conditioning (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: None
Activity: 3 hours
This course is designed for the student athlete. The following areas are emphasized: the analysis and training of athletic skills, the analysis of offensive and defensive systems, physical conditioning, strength training and aerobic conditioning.
668 Body Dynamics Activity (1) UC:CSU RPT 3
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: None
Emphasis is on physical fitness through a regular exercise program including low/high impact aerobics performed to music, and nutrition, diet and body mechanics information
701 Advanced Lifesaving (2) UC:CSU
CSU-GE Area E
Prerequisite: PHYS ED 102
Lecture: 1 hour; Activity: 2 hours
Theory and analysis of lifesaving and water safety skills are studied. This course is a requirement for water safety instructor’s courses. Upon successful completion, an American Red Cross certificate is issued.
814 Dance Production I (2) UC:CSU RPT 3
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 1 hour; Activity: 2 hours
This course provides laboratory experience in developing skills in dance production technique, choreography, set design, lighting, directing and costume design. The course also serves as a workshop for LASC Dance Company for concerts and dance-related productions.
1 Physical Science I (3) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5A
CSU-GE Area B1
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 3 hours
Designed for the non-science major, this course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of physics and chemistry. Elementary quantitative concepts are used to supplement the qualitative emphasis of this course.
14 Physical Science Laboratory (1) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5A
CSU-GE Area B3
Corequisite: Physical Science 1 or previous enrollment
Lab: 2 hours
This course provides laboratory experience supplementing the instruction given in Physical Science 1.
6 General Physics I (4) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5A
CSU-GE Areas B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Math 240
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 3 hours
This is a basic course in the mechanics of solids, the mechanics of liquids, molecular physics, and heat. The work includes the solution of problems and laboratory experiments selected to illustrate the major principles of physics.
7 General Physics II (4) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5A
CSU-GE Area B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Physics 6
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 3 hours
This is a basic course in sound, light, electricity, and magnetism together with an introduction to modern physics.
37 Physics for Engineers and Scientists I (5) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5A
CSU-GE Areas B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Math 265
Lecture: 4 hours; Lab: 3 hours
Physics 37, 38 and 39 constitute the standard college physics sequence Required in such fields as physics, engineering, chemistry, astronomy, and mathematics. Physics 37 includes the mechanics of solids and fluids with applications of Newton’s laws of motion, Archimedes’ principle, and Bernoulli’s equation.
38 Physics for Engineers and Scientists II (5) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5A
CSU-GE Areas B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Physics 37
Recommended: Mathematics 266
Lecture: 4 hours; Lab: 3 hours
Physics 38 continues the standard college physics sequence required in such fields as physics, engineering, chemistry, astronomy, and mathematics. Physics 38 includes the principles of heat, thermodynamics, kinetic theory, electricity and magnetism, and Maxwell’s equations.
39 Physics for Engineers and Scientists III (5) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5A
CSU-GE Areas B1 and B3
Prerequisite: Physics 37
Lecture: 4 hours; Lab: 3 hours
This course completes the standard college physics sequence required in such fields as physics, engineering, chemistry, astronomy, and mathematics. Physics 39 includes the principles of wave motion, sound, electromagnetic waves, geometrical and physical optics, atomic physics, nuclear physics, wave mechanics, the Schrosdinger equation, and the theory of relativity.
1 Introduction to Human Physiology (4) UC:CSU
IGETC Area 5B
CSU-GE Areas B2 and B3
Prerequisites: Biology 3 or 5
Lecture: 3 hours; Lab: 3 hours
This is an introductory course that examines how the human body functions with emphasis on the endocrine, nervous, cardiovascular, muscular, respiratory, digestive, reproductive and excretory systems. Upon completion of this course the student will be able to describe the major functional characteristics of the human body.
Note: This course, when taken with ANATOMY 1, is equivalent to Biology 20.
285 Directed Study - Physiology (2) CSU
Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 2 hours
This is a Pass/No Pass companion course for Physiology courses. It will provide students the opportunity to improve their comprehension and further develop study and investigative skills necessary for success in the physiological sciences. This course will be offered under the supervision of a Physiology faculty member.