Bio 10 - Introduction to Biology Bio 41 - Principles of Animal Biology Bio 11 - Human Biology Bio 42 - Principles of Plant Biology Bio 12 - Intro. to Ecology & Wildlife Bio 43 - Principles of Cell Biology Bio 13 - Natural History of California Bio 45 - Microbiology Bio 14 - California Plants & Animals Bio 46 - Anatomy & Physiology Bio 18 - Marine Biology Bio 47 - Human Anatomy Bio 20 - Genetics: Human Emphasis Bio 48 - Human Physiology Bio 24 - Contemporary Biology Bio 49 - Biological Techniques Bio 34 - Tropical Ecology Bio 50 - Human Cadaver Dissection Bio 35 - Biology of Birds Bio 52 - Biology Skills and Concepts Bio 36 - Animal Behavior Bio 91,92,93 - Directed Studies . Bio 100 - Special Topics

Biology 10 - Introduction to Biology (4 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 3 hours (also offered as a television course)
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
An introductory course in biology designed for the non-science major. Emphasis is on understanding and applying biological principles to the life we live today. Topics discussed include the scientific method; the structure and function of an ecosystem; cell structure and function; how organisms solve the problems of nutrition, circulation, excretion, heredity, reproduction and adaptation, emphasizing ourselves. Laboratory work includes exercises requiring investigation and examination of living material, as well as required field trips. A passing grade in both lecture and laboratory is required to receive credit for the course. BIOLOGY 10 IS NOT OPEN TO STUDENTS WHO HAVE COMPLETED BIO 11 WITH A GRADE OF C OR BETTER.  (CAN BIOL 47)

Biology 11 - Human Biology (4 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 3 hours
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
A non-major introductory course in human biology, focusing on human anatomy and physiology and how humans are related and adapted to their environment. This course enables students to better understand themselves and the world in which they live. It will be of particular interest to students considering health fields as well as those with a general curiosity about themselves and their environment. IT IS NOT OPEN TO STUDENTS WHO HAVE COMPLETED BIO 10 WITH A GRADE OF C OR BETTER.

Biology 12 - Introduction to Ecology and Wildlife (3 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 2 hours per week; Scheduled lab 3 hours per week
Recommended preparation: Math 102
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
This non-majors course is an introduction to the general ecological principles that integrate all life on earth, with special focus on wildlife populations and their natural history. Energy and material flows will be covered, along with animal biology, behavior, population dynamics and human impact and management. Laboratory and field exercises emphasize investigational techniques used in scientific studies.

Biology 13 - Natural History of California (2 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 2 hours.
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
There will be a class discussion followed by field trip(s) to a selected region of California, such as desert or coast (as specified in the schedule). In addition to studying the unique plants and animals of the selected area, other aspects of natural history will also be examined, such as ecology and soil types. Participation in the field trip requires successful completion of preparatory requirements A transportation and supplies fee may be charged for trip expenses.  This course may be repeated once. Credit / No Credit Option.

Biology 14 - California Plants and Animals (3 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 2 hours per week; Scheduled lab 3 hours per week
Acceptable for credit: California State University
This course is a general education course which introduces California plants and animals in an ecological context.  An ecosystem approach is used to explain the geographic distribution of life forms and their community associations.  In class activities and out-of-class projects involve learning the natural history of California life forms, as well as recognizing and naming them. Anyone who is interested in teaching, recreation or park management will learn identification and display techniques that will be of use. This course has been analyzed and the course decription changed to support student and vocational needs.

Biology 18 - Marine Biology (4 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 3 hours
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
A survey of the principles of marine science. Designed to acquaint the student with the natural history of the local coastline and the Monterey Bay and its adjoining areas. The use of oceanographic instruments and marine sampling devices, a descriptive survey of the flora and fauna as found in the laboratory study and field trips, and the relationship of the ocean to man are also included.

Biology 20 - Genetics: Human Emphasis (3 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 2 hours; lab 3 hours
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
A general education course primarily for the non-science major. An introduction to the basic principles and concepts of heredity and their application to plants and animals, with emphasis on the heredity of humans. Among the topics to be discussed will be evolution, the heredity process, mutation, medical genetics and genetic engineering.

Biology 24 - Contemporary Biology (3 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours.
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
This course is designed for students of all disciplines to introduce a wide range of contemporary biological issues that will affect their lives: environmentally related issues, issues related to human physiology, and issues related to inheritance. Basic biological, chemical and physical principles are presented as appropriate for meaningful discussions of these issues and to understand articles, essays and lectures.

Biology 34 - Tropical Ecology (4 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours, lab 3 hours.
Acceptable for credit: California State University
This introductory level course is designed for students of all disciplines who are interested in learning about tropical ecology first hand by studying at field stations in Costa Rica. Principles of ecology, biodiversity, and conservation will be examined and applied in both terrestrial and marine environments. This intensive field course will emphasize two main tropical ecosystems: the rain forest and the rocky intertidal region. Costa Rican culture, economy, and public policy and their relationship to resource conservation will also be examined. Students will participate in naturalist led hikes and group research projects in the field. They will also design and carry out independent ecological studies.

This class will be held at biological field stations in Costa Rica, with other required class meetings at West Valley College.  Students will be responsible for their own trip costs and for the purchase of items required for the trip. This course is West Valley College AA/AS degree applicable. Credit/No Credit Option.

Biology 35 - Biology of Birds (3 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 2 hours, lab 2 hours, 1 lab hour by arrangement.
Acceptable for credit: California State University
This course introduces the natural history and biology of birds. The anatomy, ecology, diversity, behavior, and identification of birds will be explored through lectures, laboratories, slide presentations, and field trips. The biology of birds in Santa Clara County will be emphasized. The course is directed towards biology students, science educators (K-12), natural history museum and environmental docents, environmental educators, as well as bird enthusiasts. This course is West Valley College AA/AS degree applicable.

Biology 36 - Animal Behavior (3 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours.
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University.
This course will explore different aspects of animal behavior ranging from the hardships of growing up, capturing food,
escaping, migrating, navigating, communicating, making homes, competing for mates, courting, sex, taking care of offspring to the complex social
behavior found in many animals. This course is West Valley College AA/AS degree applicable.

Biology 41 - Principles of Animal Biology (5 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 6 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of a College biology course or High school biology.
Recommended preparation: Math 102
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
Introduces the principles and concepts of the study of zoology by relating the structure, physiology, and natural history of the animals. Most of the course is devoted to a comparative study of the major taxonomic groups including morphology, embryology and development, adaptation and natural selection.

Biology 42 - Principles of Plant Biology (5 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 6 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of a College biology course or High school biology.
Recommended preparation: Math 102
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
A survey of the major plant phyla with emphasis on the anatomy and physiology of vascular plants. Informal instruction in field studies will provide opportunity to do vegetational analysis and study native flora. Principles of ecology will be covered from biome to populations. A brief survey of plant cell fundamentals includes structure and physiology, photosynthesis and reproduction. The practical importance of plants is also discussed. A four day field trip may be included in order to study plant communities. This trip will require a travel and food fee. Offered SPRING ONLY. (CAN BIOL 6)

Biology 43 - Principles of Cell Biology (5 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 6 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of a College biology course or High school biology.
Recommended preparation: Math 102
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
A comprehensive study of the unifying principles of cell biology designed to complete the preparation of the biology and pre-professional major for specialized upper-division courses. The course includes study of the principles biochemistry and cell metabolism, structure and function of cells and viruses, bacterial taxonomy, meiosis and cell reproduction, and theories of the origion and evolution of life. Offered FALL ONLY. (CAN BIOL 2)

Biology 45 - Microbiology (5 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 6 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of a College biology course and any college chemistry course.
Recommended preparation: Math 103/103R
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
This course is designed for nursing and other majors in life science. An introduction to microorganisms and the laboratory techniques employed in their study. The characteristics, particularly of bacteria, but including viruses, rickettsiae, algae, fungi, yeasts and protozoa will be studied with emphasis on their relationship to human life. Laboratory work will include morphological, cultural, nutritional and biochemical characteristics of microorganisms. The student will gain experience with the basic laboratory skills of the microbiologist. (CAN BIOL 14)

Biology 46 - Anatomy and Physiology (5 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 6 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of a College biology course or High school biology.
Recommended preparation: Math 102
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
A survey of human anatomy and physiology to understand the correlation of structure and function of the systems of the human body. Laboratory work will consist of animal dissection, cadaver material, microscopic work, experimentation and demonstration of materials to supplement the lectures.  Designed for the liberal arts student, those planning careers in education, psychology, and the social sciences.

Biology 47 - Human Anatomy (5 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 4 hours; plus 2 weekly hours in lab by arrangement
Prerequisite: Completion of a College biology course or High school biology.
Recommended preparation: Math 102
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
A study of the gross structure of the organ systems of the human body as shown by lecture and demonstration.  Lecture and demonstrated materials are correlated with microscopic examination of tissues and organs. Dissection of the cat and cadaver material. (CAN BIOL 10)

Biology 48 - Human Physiology (5 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture 3 hours; lab 6 hours
Prerequisite: Biology 47 and a college Chemistry course.
Recommended preparation: Math 103/103R
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
A study of the organ systems of the human body and the physiological principles involved in normal function. Emphasis is on regulatory mechanisms and cellular function. The laboratory includes experiments stressing function of the body systems. Some experiments will be carried out on the students themselves. (CAN BIOL 12)

Biology 49A,B,C,D - Biological Techniques (1 unit) (return to top of page)

Laboratory 3 hours, each course
Prerequisite: Completion of a college biology science course; Biology 49A is prerequisite to 49B; Bio 49B is prerequisite to 49C; and Bio 49C is prerequisite to 49D.
Recommended preparation: Math 102
Acceptable for credit: California State University
Designed for, but not restricted to, pre-teaching biology majors.  The student works with individual instructors and the laboratory technician in the preparation of demonstration materials and laboratory setups. Provides practical experience in the use and care of laboratory apparatus.

Biology 50 Human Cadaver Dissection (3 units) (return to top of page)
Lecture 1 hour, Laboratory 5 hours, 1 lab hour by arrangement
Prerequisite: Bio 47
Acceptable for credit: California State University
This is an advanced anatomy whole-cadaver dissection course. It is designed for nursing, medical, physical therapy, physicians assistant and other health related majors. During the semester, students will be involved in the dissection of a whole human cadaver. Lecture will provide necessary instruction for the dissection and lab will consist of small group based dissections of cadaver materials. In addition to dissections, students will use computer-based learning projects designed to further enhance their learning and understanding of normal and abnormal human anatomy. This course may be repeated once.
 

Biology 52 Biology Skills and Concepts (1 unit) (return to top of page)
Laboratory 3, 6, 9 hours by arrangement
Prerequisite: Interview with the instructor to determine objectives and write a contract.
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
Directed studies are investigations of special interest to the student which are related to, but not included in, regular courses offered by the college.  Credit / No Credit Option.

Biology 91,92,93 - Directed Studies (1-3 units) (return to top of page)

Laboratory 3, 6, 9 hours by arrangement
Prerequisite: Interview with the instructor to determine objectives and write a contract.
Acceptable for credit: University of California, California State University
Directed studies are investigations of special interest to the student which are related to, but not included in, regular courses offered by the college.  Credit / No Credit Option.

Biology 100 - Special Topics (.5-3 units) (return to top of page)

Lecture and/or Laboratory .5 to 9 hours
Recommended preparation: Math 102
The course will explore topics related to this discipline and will be offered as needed. See the class schedule for current offerings.  Credit / No Credit Option.

Page created by: Peter Svensson Updated: January 12,  2005