SMC GE Area I

This course is an intensive study of the gross and microscopic structure of the human body including the four major types of tissue and their subgroups, and the following organ systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, endocrine, nervous, and senses. Functions of the organ systems are included at the introductory level to prepare students for a course in Human Physiology. Laboratory assignments develop the skills of observation, investigation, identification, discovery and dissection. The use of actual specimens, including cat dissection and observation of a human cadaver, is emphasized to assure that students learn the relative structure, functions, textures and variations in tissues not incorporated in models. Supplemental materials such as models, photographs, charts, videotapes, and digitized images are also provided. This course is required for students preparing for many Allied Health professions including, but not limited to, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Education and Kinesiology Training, and Physician’s Assistant and is a prerequisite for Human Physiology 3.

This course emphasizes developmental, comparative and gross anatomy as applied to various disciplines such as clinical medicine, anthropology, art, illustration, kinesiology, and pathology in order to demonstrate practical and professional applications of anatomy. The laboratory experience includes individualized instruction in (virtual for online) dissection of the human body. Students prepare seminars on specific anatomy topics for presentation to faculty and other students. Guest lecturers and field trips may be included.

A survey of human biology, this course focuses on human origins and evolution by investigating the major aspects of biological anthropology including Mendelian and human genetics, primate and hominid evolutionary processes, contemporary human variability and facets of primate ethology and human behavior that make our species unique in the animal kingdom.

A survey of human biology, this course focuses on human origins and evolution by investigating the major aspects of biological anthropology including Mendelian and human genetics, population genetics, primate and hominid evolutionary processes, contemporary human variability, and facets of primate ethology and human behavior that make our species unique in the animal kingdom. This course consists of three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory work weekly. The laboratory projects will parallel the lecture topics hence the lab projects will pertain to genetics, human variation, primate anatomy, human osteology, and analysis of hominid (human) and primate fossils.

This course focuses on the evolutionary history or our species, Homo sapiens, through an examination of the paleontological record of primate and human origins. It examines the latest ideas on comparative primate and human paleobiology and places these developments within the conceptual framework of modern evolutionary theory.

This course presents students with an overview of forensic anthropology, an applied subfield of physical anthropology. The focus of the class is on the analysis of human skeletal remains with medicolegal significance. Students are introduced to current techniques used in the analysis of human skeletal remains, medicolegal procedures, and the role of the forensic anthropologist in the investigative process. The topics covered in this course include bone biology, skeletal analysis methods, pathology and trauma recognition, crime scene investigation and individual identification techniques.

This course will survey living nonhuman primates. We will explore the diversity of primates through the examination of their morphology, taxonomy, behavior and social organization within an evolutionary and ecological framework. The course will examine the history of the field, its development and modern theoretical studies. The course will also delve into primate conservation and the possible future directions of primatology research.

This is an introductory course to the field of aquaculture. Topics include the history and current trends in the field, a review of Biological and ecological concepts relevant to aquaculture with attention to the impact of climate change and other environmental concerns on the sustainability of the industry. With consideration for environmental change, additionally, this course addresses conservation and restoration practices for endangered species.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fascinating subject of astronomy with an emphasis on the study of the Sun and other stars. Topics covered include the motions of the sky, a survey of the history of astronomy from Kepler to Einstein, gravity, radiation and matter, astronomical instrumentation, the Sun, stars, star formation, stellar evolution, galaxies and cosmology. NOTE: Maximum credit allowed for Astronomy 1 and Astronomy 3 is one course (4 units).

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fascinating subject of astronomy with an emphasis on the study of the Earth and the other planets in the solar system. Topics covered include the motions of the sky, a survey of the history of astronomy from the Greeks to Einstein, phases of the moon, eclipses, gravity, the formation of the solar system, the Earth, Terrestrial and Jovian planets, their moons, asteroids, meteoroids, comets and a discussion of extrasolar planets around other stars. NOTE: Maximum credit allowed for Astronomy 2 and Astronomy 4 is one course (4 units).

This survey course covers the same material as Astronomy 1, but includes a laboratory section covering hands-on astronomical activities. The laboratory portion includes observations of the sky, computer simulations, the construction of simple astronomical instruments and analyzing publicly available astronomical data from the internet.

This is a 4-unit introductory level lab course with a similar curricular depth and breadth to its comparable 3-unit lecture course Astronomy 2. In the lab component, students begin by re-creating many historical, first-ever human discoveries and measurements that helped to develop the scientific method: the size of Earth, Moon, and Sun, their relative distances, the scale of planetary orbits, phases, diameters, densities, masses, surface features, atmospheres, and rates of rotation. The labs also engage students in basic observations of the sky, computer simulations, and analysis of archival data from public domain sky surveys and surface maps by robotic NASA rovers and orbiting probes. The course material is a single semester survey of the origin and evolution of planetary systems such as our own Solar System including the latest leading theories of planetary topography, atmospheres, interiors, moons, comets, asteroids, and aurorae produced by the interaction of planetary magnetism and particle outflows from the Sun.

This course surveys the latest ideas concerning the origin and evolution of life on Earth and discusses how these ideas are influencing our search for life on other planets in our solar system and elsewhere in the Universe. Topics covered include the chemical and biological basis of life, the search for life on Mars, extrasolar planets and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

This course explores how our ideas surrounding the origin, evolution and future of the universe have developed from earliest times until present day. Topics discussed include creation mythology, gravity, matter and radiation, relativity, cosmic expansion and acceleration, the Big Bang, dark matter and dark energy, the cosmic microwave background, inflation and the multiverse.

This course provides a geologic and astronomic view of solar system exploration. Current knowledge of the geology of other planets, natural satellites and asteroids is discussed. Current studies in planetary science and how to access and utilize data collected from modern and historic planetary missions and Earth-based studies are also examined.

This survey course explores the principles of biology using humans as examples. It includes introductions to the scientific method, cell biology, heredity, evolution, human ecology, behavior, and the major concepts of structure, function and pathology of most organ systems. The course may serve as an introduction to the future study of biology, including anatomy and physiology, or stand by itself as a non-lab life science course for general education students.

This general biology course is for transfer students who are not biology majors. Topics include basic molecular and cellular biology, genetics, the anatomy and physiology of plants, animals and humans, the diversity of life, evolution, and ecology. Current environmental issues and new developments in biological science are discussed. Laboratory experiences are integrated and stress scientific methodology and thinking. *Credit is allowed for one course from either Biology 3, 4, Botany 1. No UC credit given for Biology 3 if taken after Biology 21, 22 or 23.

This survey course covers ecological principles including ecosystem structure and function, population dynamics and the interdependence of living organisms. Current environmental issues and controversies such as global warming, biodiversity and species extinction, habitat destruction, food and energy resources and pollution will be explored. Strategies for sustainable living will be emphasized.

This course introduces students to basic concepts of environmental biology through the study of evolution, ecology, and conservation biology. The course is designed for both major and non-major environmental science students. It is intended both as preparation for upper division Environmental Science classes, but also as general education for all students interested in a more in-depth understanding of current biological and environmental issues. By the end of the course, students should be able to use scientifically sound information to critically analyze complex environmental issues from around the world. Students will gather and analyze basic research data and apply the scientific method to conservation-related projects. Laboratory and field experiments are integrated and stress scientific methodology and thinking.

This survey course of marine organisms and their relationships to their environment emphasizes intertidal and offshore life forms. Included is an investigation of behavior, ecology, morphological and physiological adaptations and environmental relationship to humans. This course is three hours each of lecture and laboratory work. *Total of four units credit for Biology 15 and Biology 15N is transferable.

This survey course of marine organisms and their relationships to their environment emphasizes intertidal and offshore life forms. Included are investigation of behavior, ecology, morphological and physiological adaptations and environmental relationship to humans. This course includes three hours of lecture per week. *Total of four units credit for Biology 15 and Biology 15N is transferable.

This is the first course of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for Biology majors, including Biology 21, 22, and 23. It describes how scientists approach the scientific method to generate scientific knowledge; studies the history, evidence, and mechanisms of evolution; identifies the chemistry of four classes of macromolecules; elucidates the cell principle including cell structure, function, and physiology; describes general energy metabolism; and illustrates the processes of growth and reproduction through mitosis, meiosis, development, and life cycles. Students are required to perform at least two experiments that require data collection, computer-based data management and graphing, and scientific analysis and interpretation of data. The course is designed to meet the needs of students transferring to upper division biology study.

This is the second course of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for Biology Majors, Biology 21, 22 and 23. It focuses on the structure, function and transmission of genes from the perspectives of genetics and molecular biology. A strong foundation in genetics and its relationship to molecular biology is developed through problem solving. Students perform experiments that require data analysis and demonstrate interpretations in laboratory reports. Application of Internet databases for bioinformatics is used to show relationships between DNA and protein sequences. The course is designed to meet the needs of students transferring to upper division biology study.

This is the third of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for biology majors. Organisms at and above the cellular level of organization are examined, with plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates receiving equal attention. Topics emphasized include morphology, physiology, systematics, ecology, evolution, and behavior. Additionally, each student must complete a term project which includes lab or fieldwork and library research. Transfer credit is limited if students enroll in other overlapping Biology courses or Zoology 5. *No UC credit for Biology 3, 4, Botany 1 or Zoology 5 if taken after Biology 21, 22 or 23.

This course will introduce students to the broad spectrum of the biotechnology field and workforce, with content that will be accessible and appropriate to students and professionals from diverse disciplines. This course is designed to prepare students to enter the growing biotechnology workforce or to transfer. Students that complete this course will be eligible to take the Los Angeles Regional Bioscience/Biotechnology Industry-Valued Credential. Topics explored in this course include basic molecular and cellular biology, introductory genetics, biomanufacturing, microbiology, agriculture & bioremediation, chemistry, environmental health & safety, quality assurance & regulation, business, ethics, and biotechnology company structure. These concepts are explored by means of class discussions and projects, reading assignments, and lab activities. The course is intended as preparation for the intermediate and advanced biotechnology skills and methods courses as well as internships. By the end of the course, students should be able to describe the general structure and operating practices for a biotechnology company, demonstrate knowledge of fundamental biotechnology concepts in a molecular biology context, and express understanding of biotechnology applications and ethical practices.

This course provides an overview of photosynthetic organisms (the Plant Kingdom, photosynthetic Monerans and Protistans) and Fungi. Flowering plants are emphasized. Topics covered include a survey of botanical life forms, taxonomy, the structure, development and function of cells, stems, roots leaves, flowers, and seeds; chemistry, photosynthesis, respiration, plant physiology, Mendelian and molecular genetics, genetic engineering, evolution, and ecology. Scientific thinking skills will be developed in laboratory exercises. One or more labs are field trips to local natural areas or Plant society meetings.

This introduction to the life habits, interrelationships, and classification of both native and introduced plants. Provides practice in identifying species by means of keys, manuals, and charts. Emphasis is on the field study of southern California plant communities, both terrestrial and marine. Other geographic regions may be explored. Field trips are taken to any combination of botanical gardens, parks, nurseries and a number of natural settings, including nature reserves, as well as state and national parks. It is designed to be of special interest to future teachers and recreational leaders, as well as to majors in botany, general agriculture, landscape architecture, forestry, and wildlife management.

This course fulfills the general education requirements for a laboratory science course. Students who successfully complete this course will understand basic chemical principles and how these principles relate to the Earth's natural systems and cycles, with emphasis on humanity's impact on Earth's natural environments. Students will gain a scientific understanding of the impact of human activity on natural systems and sustainability. Students will also learn common laboratory techniques, including the safe handling of chemicals and the proper use of laboratory equipment, as they analyze environmental problems and solutions. Course Note: This course does not fulfill the prerequisite for Chemistry 11.

Chemistry 10 is a survey of introductory chemistry topics with a laboratory component. It is intended as preparation for Chemistry major or those planning to go into a STEM major or as a way to fulfill the science general education requirement. It introduces the main concepts and principles of chemistry and serves as a prerequisite for the General Chemistry sequence (CHEM 11 and CHEM 12). Emphasis is placed on understanding basic chemical principles and their quantitative application in various settings. Experimental techniques, including the safe and competent handling of chemicals and laboratory equipment will also be part of the course.

This course is the first semester of a two-semester, standard first year college chemistry course (Chemistry 11 and Chemistry 12). It introduces the fields of physical, analytical, inorganic, and organic chemistry. Topics to be discussed include atomic structure, chemical bonding, common types of reactions, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, and the properties of gases, liquids, and solids.

This course is a continuation of Chem 11. Topics covered include kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, precipitation reactions, coordination chemistry, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry.

This one-semester course is designed for students preparing for studies in nursing or related allied health professions. Topics include measurements, unit conversions, atomic and molecular structure, chemical reactions and equations, gases, solutions and acid/base chemistry. There will be a special emphasis on properties and reactions of organic and biologically relevant compounds. NOTE: This course is NOT equivalent to CHEM 10 and does NOT meet the prerequisite requirement for CHEM 11.

This course is a systematic introduction to the chemistry of carbon compounds. It encompasses theory and reactions of hydrocarbons and functional group derivatives. Included are bonding and structure, nomenclature, stereochemistry, synthesis, mechanism, and spectroscopic analysis. The laboratory work focuses on techniques of synthesis, isolation, purification, and analysis.

This course is a continuation of Chem 21, with emphasis on the remaining functional groups and types of reactions. Also included is an introduction to the organic chemistry of biochemical compounds. Chem 22 includes lecture and discussion. The second semester of organic chemistry laboratory is a separate course, Chem 24. Chem 21 and 22 constitute two semesters of organic chemistry with one semester of organic chemistry laboratory. Chem 21, 22, and 24 constitute two semesters of organic chemistry with two semesters of laboratory.

This course is the second semester of organic chemistry laboratory. The laboratory work involves microscale and miniscale synthesis, structure determination, investigation of reaction mechanism, and qualitative analysis. The lectures will discuss the theory and techniques that relate to the experiments that are performed, including NMR, IR, organic qualitative analysis, and various methods of analysis, separation, and purification of mixtures. Maximum UC credit for Chemistry 22 and Chemistry 24 combined is 5 units.

This course is a survey of biochemistry, introducing the student to the structures and functions of important classes of biochemical compounds as well as to the central reactions of metabolism. The main topics include the structure and function of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids; the catalysis, kinetics and regulation of enzymes; and the reactions of glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, electron transport/oxidative phosphorylation, and gluconeogenesis. The laboratory section of the course provides an introduction to biochemistry lab procedures including titration, peptide analysis, spectroscopy, spectrophotometry, column chromatography, gel-electrophoresis, the kinetic analysis of enzyme-catalyzed reactions, and internet based informatics tools.

This course surveys the distribution and relationships of environmental elements in our atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere, including weather, climate, water resources, landforms, soils, natural vegetation, and wildlife. Focus is on the systems and cycles of our natural world, including the effects of the sun and moon on environmental processes, and the roles played by humans.

This course is a survey of earth’s atmosphere, with special reference to the causes and regional distribution of weather and climate. The nature and causes of winds, clouds, precipitation, severe storms, and global climate change is studied. Students will learn techniques of local weather observation and prediction.

This course surveys the distribution and relationships of environmental elements in our atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere, including weather, climate, water resources, landforms, soils, natural vegetation, and wildlife. Focus is on the systems and cycles of our natural world, including the effects of the sun and moon on environmental processes, and the roles played by humans. Laboratory work emphasizes the practical application of concepts presented in lecture, introduces the student to some of the tools and methods used in Physical Geography, and may include field study opportunities. NOTE: Students may receive credit for either Geography 1 or 5, but not both.

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of Earth Science with a laboratory. Topics covered include the solar system, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere, This course focuses on the interactions between physical and chemical systems of the Earth including the tectonic cycle, rock cycle, hydrologic cycle, weather and climate.

This course illustrates geologic processes that have shaped and continue to shape Earth. Topics include plate tectonics, minerals, rocks, hazards associated with volcanoes, earthquakes, and other geologic processes, geologic time, mountain building, fossil fuels and other geologic resources, processes that change landscapes, and climate change. Upon completion of this course, the student will have a greater awareness and understanding of their constantly changing environment.

This course is an introduction to geologic hazards and resources. The primary focus is geologic settings that produce regions with different types of geologic hazards, the specific hazards and mitigation techniques associated with those regions, and the formation and utilization of geologic resources. Topics include earthquakes, volcanoes, floods and groundwater, fossil fuels, rock and mineral resources, and problems associated with resource use.

This course presents an introduction to geologic processes that have shaped the Earth. Lecture topics include formation of the Earth, plate tectonics, rocks, minerals, earthquakes, geologic structures, geologic time, coastal processes, and groundwater. Laboratory exercises expand this information by dealing with rock and mineral identification, topographic and geologic map interpretation, and the interpretation aerial photographs. Upon completion of this course, the student will have a good understanding of the processes that form major features on Earth.

This course is an introduction to the history of Earth and its evolution including surface environments, atmosphere, oceans, and life. Sedimentary rocks are studied for stratigraphic relationships, environmental indicators, and biologic significance to reconstruct the geological and biological evolution of Earth over time. Numerical methods, like geochronology, are also employed to assign absolute ages to past environments. The combination of both relative and numerical methods to the study of plate tectonics and geologic structures will allow the student to understand how Earth history is reconstructed. A particular emphasis is placed on the study of North American sequences.

This course explores the geologic causes of climate change and explores how climate has varied in the geologic past. The course will investigate how the oceans and atmosphere regulate both climate and weather today. Moreover, it will examine human contributions to current warming, and how policy decisions shape future emission scenarios. The course will also highlight societal impacts of current and future emission scenarios.

This course provides a geologic and astronomic view of solar system exploration. Current knowledge of the geology of other planets, natural satellites and asteroids is discussed. Current studies in planetary science and how to access and utilize data collected from modern and historic planetary missions and Earth-based studies are also examined.

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of Earth Science with a laboratory. Topics covered include the solar system, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere, This course focuses on the interactions between physical and chemical systems of the Earth including the tectonic cycle, rock cycle, hydrologic cycle, weather and climate.

This course provides the student with an understanding of the physical and geological aspect of oceanography. Lecture topics include the origin of the oceans, plate tectonics, seafloor topography, waves, beaches, estuaries, lagoons, and lakes. Completion of this course will give the student a greater knowledge of the fascinating and dynamic world of the oceans.

This course involves study of several types of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria. Principles of microbiology, metabolism, genetics, immunology, and medical and nonmedical applications are considered. The laboratory includes aseptic transfer techniques, cultural characteristics, methods of microscopy, and analytical techniques for identifying microbial organisms. The course content is related to both general and clinical applications including recent molecular biological and serological techniques.

Human nutrition, integrating anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and psychology, is studied in relation to wellness and degenerative disease prevention. Scientific information and principles provide the foundation for evaluating current concepts in nutrition for practical application in daily living.

This rigorous course provides a basic understanding of physiological mechanisms with a focus on the human body. Basic concepts of cellular physiology, including: molecular control; mechanisms of gene expression; ligand-binding site interactions; energy and cellular metabolism; membrane transport; membrane and action potentials; and cellular communication, including signal transduction, will be integrated within the concept of homeostasis involving the following body systems: nervous, sensory, endocrine, muscle, skeletal, cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, renal, digestive, reproductive, and integumentary. The course content includes both general and clinical applications and is intended to prepare students for advanced courses in Allied Health and Medical professions including Nursing, Physical Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, Physician's Assistant, Pharmacy, and Exercise Science/Kinesiology Training.

This course is an algebra- and trigonometry-based study of classical mechanics, including elastic properties of matter and thermodynamics.

This course is an algebra- and trigonometry-based study of electricity and magnetism, geometrical and wave optics, and some special relativity and quantum physics.

This course is a calculus-based study of the mechanics of solids and liquids, elastic properties of matter, heat, and wave motion.

This course is a calculus-based study of electricity and magnetism, geometrical and physical optics, special relativity, and quantum physics.

Physics 12 is designed for the student who is interested in a more conceptual and less mathematical approach to physics. It is a survey course introducing the topics of mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, light and modern physics. The emphasis will be on developing conceptual understanding of the laws of nature through lectures, demonstrations, and class discussions. High school math recommended.

This course is similar to Physics 12 in content and difficulty level, but with a laboratory session added to enhance the learning experience. Physics 14 is designed for the student who is interested in a more conceptual and less mathematical approach to physics. It is a one semester survey course introducing the topics of mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, light and modern physics. The emphasis will be on developing conceptual understanding of the laws of nature through hands-on experiences, laboratory experiments, and computer interactions, in addition to lectures and demonstrations. Maximum credit for Physics 12 and 14 combined is 4 units. High school math recommended.

This course is a calculus-based study of the mechanics of rigid bodies, emphasizing Newton’s laws and its applications. This course includes an introduction to fluids. It is designed for engineering, physical science, and computer science majors.

This course is a calculus-based study of electromagnetism covering aspects of electric and magnetic fields, DC and AC circuits, electromagnetic interactions, light, and relativity. The course is intended for engineering and physical science students.

This course is a calculus-based study of fluids, waves, thermodynamics, and light intended for engineering and physical science students.

This course is a calculus-based introduction to modern physics for engineering and physical science students. Topics will be selected from the areas of relativity and quantum physics that include applications to atoms, molecules, solids, and nuclei.

This introductory course emphasizes the biological approach and methods as tools for adding to our understanding of human psychology and neuroscience. Information about the functioning of the human nervous system is used to provide insight into mental, emotional, and behavioral processes. The role of biological factors underlying sensation, perception, motivation, learning, thinking, language processes, and psychopathology is stressed. The course also notes historical scientific contributions and current research principles for studying brain-behavior relationships and mental processes. Ethical standards for human and animal research are discussed in the context of both invasive and non-invasive experimental research.

This general zoology course deals with the major animal groups from protists through vertebrates. Consideration is given to animal form, function, natural history, and behavior. Comparisons are made between groups and are used to stress the principles of evolution, classification, morphology, cell biology, organ system function, genetics, and ecology. Critical and scientific thinking skills are illustrated and developed. *Credit is allowed for one course from Biology 3, 4, Botany 1. *No UC credit for Zool 5 if taken after Biology 21, 22 or 23 and no credit for Biology 4 if taken after Zoology 5 or Botany 1.