Biology Courses

The course descriptions are below. The faculty are developing laboratory manuals and using free textbooks. To go directly to the courses, use these links.

Note: * The course is under development and may not be viewed now.

SCB 101 – Topics in Biological Sciences

This course serves as an introduction to biology for the non- science majors. It will cover topics such as basic chemistry, cell structure and function, genetics, biotechnology, anatomy and physiology, evolution, and ecology. The scientific method and application of quantitative techniques, data analysis, interpretation and presentation will also be covered. Prerequisites: CSE099, ESA099, MAT096.  Fulfills “Pathways: Required Core. 3 credits; 3 hours (2 lecture, 1 lab)

SCB 103 – Human Biology in Health and Disease

This one-semester course provides students with an overview of the structure and function of the human body. The anatomy and physiology of the following organ systems will be discussed: cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, gastrointestinal, immune and reproductive. Each of these systems will be considered under normal conditions as well as under disease conditions. Contemporary health issues will also be discussed. The laboratory component of the course will involve simulations in a computer lab. Prerequisites: CSE099, ENA/ENG/ESA099, MAT096. Fulfills “Pathways: Flexible Core-Scientific World.” 3 credits; 3 hours (2 lecture, 1 lab)

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SCB 115 Principles of Biology

This is a one-semester laboratory-based course in biology stressing general concepts and amplifying them through a study of the human organism. The scientific method of thinking will be emphasized. Topics will include biological chemistry, cell structure and function, classical and molecular genetics, evolution and ecology, and homeostasis will be explored in the context of human biology. Laboratory exercises will include chemical analyses of nutrients, microscope slides and dissection of the fetal pig. Prerequisites: CSE099, ENG099, MAT096. Fulfills “Pathways: Flexible Core-Scientific World.” 4 credits; 6 hours (3 lecture, 3 lab)

SCB 201 – General Biology I

This course is part one of a two-semester sequence covering concepts of general biology. Beginning with an introduction to the scientific study of life, the course covers the chemistry of life, cell structure and function, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, cell cycle and cell division, classical and molecular genetics and gene expression, DNA replication, genetic engineering, development, evolution, speciation and phylogeny. The laboratory component of the course complements the lectures. Prerequisites: CSE099, ENA/ENG/ESA/099/ENC101, MAT099. Fulfills “Pathways: Flexible Core-Scientific World.” 4 credits; 6 hours each (3 lecture, 3 lab)

SCB 201 – General Biology I Honors

See course description for SCB 201- General Biology I above.

SCB 202 – General Biology II

This course is part two of a two-semester sequence covering concepts of general biology. It begins with a survey of organismic diversity, from prokaryotes and viruses to the major eukaryotic groups, including protists, land plants, fungi and animals. Structure and function in animals is examined, including homeostasis, osmoregulation, excretion, nutrition, gas exchange, circulation, electrical and chemical signals and reproduction. The course also covers ecology. The laboratory portion complements the lectures. Prerequisite: SCB201. Fulfills “Pathways: Flexible Core-Scientific World”

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SCB 203 – Human Anatomy and Physiology I

Part one of a two semester introduction to human anatomy and physiology that examines the relationships between structure and function of organs and organ systems in the maintenance of normal function in the whole organism. The lab includes experimental activities, microscopy and gross anatomy. Dissections and clay modeling will be used to study select organ systems. Lecture topics include the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, lymphatic and immune systems.Prerequisites: CSE099, ENG099, MAT096. Fulfills “Pathways: Flexible Core-Scientific World.”4 credits; 6 hours (3 lecture, 3 lab)

SCB 204 – Human Anatomy and Physiology II

Part two of a two semester introduction to human anatomy and physiology that examines relationships between structure and function of organs and organ systems in the maintenance of normal function in the whole organism. The laboratory includes experimental activities, microscopy and gross anatomy. Rat dissections will be used to study select organ systems. The major organ systems covered include the nervous, endocrine, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Prerequisite: SCB203. Fulfills “Pathways: Flexible Core-Scientific World.” 4 credits; 6 hours (3 lecture, 3 lab)

SCB 206 – Introduction to Neuroscience

This course is devised as an introduction to neuroscience and is intended for students interested in exploring the biological basis of human behavior. Students taking this course will learn about the structure and physiology of the nervous system from the function of cells to the function of the brain. The course will provide an overview of normal sensory, motor, memory, learning and emotional processes, pharmacological influences, and will incorporate discussions of various cognitive and behavioral dysfunctions.Prerequisites: CSE099, ESA/ENA/ENG099, MAT096. Fulfills “Pathways: Required Core”. 3 credits; 3 hours (2 lecture, 1 lab)

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SCB 208 – Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology I

This course, the first part of a two-course sequence, introduces students to the anatomy and physiology of vertebrates, with an emphasis on domestic animals. Topics include the chemistry of life, histology, body organization and the structure and function of the following organ systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular and endocrine. In the laboratory student have the opportunity to dissect representative vertebrate animals. Prerequisite: SCV101 or SCB202, Pre/Corequisite: SCC110. 3 credits; 4 hours (2 lecture, 2 lab)

SCB 209 – Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology II

This course is a continuation of Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology I. Major organ systems are discussed while emphasis is placed on mammalian anatomy and physiology. In the laboratory, students have the opportunity to view these systems through the dissection of a cat. Prerequisite: SCB208. 3 credits; 4 hours (2 lecture, 2 lab)

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SCB 252 – Fundamentals of Biotechniques

Students will participate in authentic undergraduate research experiences to learn techniques commonly performed in a biological laboratory, such as micropipetting, isolation and quantification of nucleic acids and proteins, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), immunodetection and gel electrophoresis. Students will also learn about data analysis, responsible conduct of research, communicating science and reflect on the impact of biotechniques on society. Prerequisites: ENG101, MAT112 or MAT115, SCB201, SCC201. 3 credits; 3 hours (2 lecture, 1 lab)

SCB 260 – General Microbiology

This course introduces students to microorganisms found in nature, industry and disease. Topics covered include virology, bacteriology, immunology, epidemiology, pathology and other related areas of microbial physiology. The laboratory will deal with the isolation and identification of common pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms utilizing techniques of staining, culturing, fermentation reactions and microscopic inspection. The lab sessions will reinforce and emphasize lecture material. Prerequisite: SCB202 or SCB204 or SCB209. 4 credits; 6 hours (3 lecture, 3 lab)

Source for course description: LAGCC College 2020-21 Catalog

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