Biological Sciences
Biological Sciences
Program Purpose: Students who complete Biological Science courses will examine and assess the place of various organisms in the natural world. They will understand how evolutionary principles provide a comprehensive model for understanding the origins of living organisms and the changes they undergo. They will be able to interpret statements about the relationships between living organisms, identify the evidence appropriate for discussing these statements and determine the validity of these statements.
Study in Biology leads to a wide range of careers upon the attainment of the baccalaureate degree. Many students prepare for entry into graduate or professional schools upon graduation; programs in dentistry, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and similar professions depend upon an emphasis in biological sciences. Careers are found in teaching, research, and government service.
Most careers require additional degrees. To explore specific career options, check the software and online resources available in the University Transfer Center located in Fountain Hall, (805) 378-1536.
Transfer Information
Students planning to transfer need to consult with a counselor, prepare a Student Education Plan, and take advantage of the support services available in the University Transfer Center located in Fountain Hall, (805) 378-1536.
NOTE: Some courses may have credit limitations. Refer to the Credit Limitations and UC Credit Limitations areas or see the UC Transfer Course Agreement page for details.
Anatomy Courses
Examines the anatomy of human organs and organ systems from a functional perspective that focuses on an understanding of the design of the human body. Teaches, in the laboratory setting, how to distinguish tissue types through histological specimens. Studies the three-dimensional relationship of body structures through required non-human mammalian dissection. Demonstrates, using human cadavers, the gross anatomy of the human body.
Allows independent study for students who wish to extend their knowledge of a particular area of Anatomy through research and study. Utilizes an approved independent project. Includes one-on-one work with instructor. Interested students should contact an Anatomy instructor for assistance in developing a contract for learning about a specific topic.
Anatomy/Physiology Courses
Introduces the structures and the relationships of human body parts. Explores how the functioning of human body parts are related to their structures. Combines the study of anatomy and physiology which allows students to effectively integrate the study of structure with functioning of the system. Utilizes themes of hierarchical structural organization and the maintenance of homeostasis to form the framework for the study of the human system at both macroscopic and microscopic levels. Examines the structure/function relationship through the required dissection of mammalian brain, heart, and eye in the laboratory portion. Utilizes a human cadaver to demonstrate the principles of the anatomy of the human body.
Biology Courses
Introduces non-majors to science and scientific methodology through a study of the basic principles of biology. Focuses on student understanding of the unity and diversity of life through discussions of topics that include biological chemistry, metabolism, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution of living systems, and ecology. Examines the implications of the science of biology on human affairs. Credit Limitation - MC, CSU, and UC: no credit if taken after BIOL M02A or BIOL M02AH.
Introduces students to major biological themes and principles that are fundamental to an understanding of life processes in any field of biology today. Includes the scientific process, experimental design, biological chemistry, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function, cellular metabolism, cell reproduction and its controls, cell communication, genetics, molecular biology, DNA technology and evolutionary processes. Credit Limitation: Credit will not be awarded for both the honors and regular versions of a course. Credit will be awarded only for the first course completed with a grade of "C" or better or "P". Moorpark College Honors program requires a letter grade.
Introduces students to major biological themes and principles that are fundamental to an understanding of life processes in any field of biology today. Includes the scientific process, experimental design, biological chemistry, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function, cellular metabolism, cell reproduction and its controls, cell communication, genetics, molecular biology, DNA technology and evolutionary processes. Honors work challenges students to be more analytical and creative through expanded assignments, real-world applications, and enrichment opportunities. Credit Limitation: Credit will not be awarded for both the honors and regular versions of a course. Credit will be awarded only for the first course completed with a grade of "C" or better or "P". Moorpark College Honors program requires a letter grade.
Surveys the basic biology and diversity of unicellular and multicellular organisms. Emphasizes general biological principles, classification, structure, function and evolutionary adaptations of organisms (including plants, fungi, animals, and unicellular organisms) to their environments. Credit Limitation: Credit will not be awarded for both the honors and regular versions of a course. Credit will be awarded only for the first course completed with a grade of "C" or better or "P". Moorpark College Honors program requires a letter grade.
Surveys the basic biology and diversity of unicellular and multicellular organisms. Emphasizes general biological principles, classification, structure, function and evolutionary adaptations of organisms (including plants, fungi, animals, and unicellular organisms) to their environments. Honors work challenges students to be more analytical and creative through expanded assignments, real-world applications and enrichment opportunities. Credit Limitation: Credit will not be awarded for both the honors and regular versions of a course. Credit will be awarded only for the first course completed with a grade of "C" or better or "P". Moorpark College Honors program requires a letter grade.
Focuses on inheritance and macromolecular functioning of the cell. Emphasizes data analysis and problem-solving skills. Includes analysis of inheritance patterns, structure and expression of DNA in viruses, bacteria, and eukaryotes. Covers regulation of gene expression, RNA and protein functioning, and examination of current DNA analysis technologies and their applications.
Examines marine organisms and their relationships to their environment while emphasizing intertidal and offshore life forms. Includes an investigation of behavior, ecology, morphological and physiological adaptations and environmental relationship to humans.
Introduces the ecology, taxonomy, and natural history of plant life in the diverse ecosystems of California. Uses the principles of evolution, ecology, and geology to illustrate the structure of plant communities that form the basis of ecosystems. Includes identification of dominant plant species in each community and visits to desert, salt and fresh water wetlands, chaparral, and mountain habitats to explore plant, animal, and environmental interactions and the impact of humans on these environments.
Examines the abiotic and biotic interactions between organisms and their environment. Covers the unifying theory of evolution by natural selection, population genetics, and diversification of life on earth. Considers adaptions as they tie to the environment, especially temperature, water, energy, nutrient and social relations. Evaluates population growth, dynamics, distribution and abundance that impact community interactions (predation, mutualism & competition). Includes nutrient cycling and trophic structure. Focuses these investigations relative to ecosystems, behavioral ecology, population & community ecology the course will conclude with large-scale, global ecology and conservation principles.
Provides skills training in manufacturing of biopharmaceuticals and medical devices. Presents an overview of the manufacturing process and introduces environmental control and process support with a focus on Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)/Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), clean room procedure, monitoring techniques, and required documentation.
Provides skills training in industrial biotechnology with emphasis on manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Introduces validation and quality control. Reviews manufacturing process, including formulation, lyophilization, packaging and filling. Focuses on validation, systems evaluations, testing and reporting.
Provides skills training in industrial biotechnology with emphasis on manufacturing pharmaceuticals. Introduces cell culture and microbial fermentation. Focuses on bacterial techniques, microbial assessment, mammalian cell culture, bioreactor fermentation, and media preparation. Compares small and large industrial scale cell culture.
Provides skills training in industrial biotechnology with emphasis on manufacturing pharmaceuticals. Introduces bioprocessing, recovery, and purification techniques. Focuses on protein separation and purification, chromatography, large-scale recovery, and identification of assays. Reviews skills necessary for a successful job search in the field of biotechnology.
Provides skills training in industrial biotechnology with emphasis on manufacturing pharmaceuticals. Examines manufacturing from the perspective of company operations involved with the drug or medical device development process. Focuses on business practices and governmental regulations.
Examines the role of molecular biology in the manufacturing of commercial pharmaceutical and agricultural products. Introduces basic biotechnology laboratory skills, including documentation, safety, and solution and buffer preparation. Develops student proficiency in aseptic techniques, spectrophotometry, molecular biology techniques, and electrophoresis.
Introduces the biology of humans covering basic cell structure, organ systems, inheritance, reproduction, development and aging, disease process, and human evolution and ecology. Explores biology as a scientific endeavor and analyzes the functioning of the human body both as an integrated system and as a part of the ecosystem with special attention to physiological structure and function. Emphasizes acquisition of knowledge needed to make intelligent decisions on bioethical issues that face society.
Provides hands-on laboratory activities to support the understanding of human biology. Explores, through laboratory exercises, human anatomy and physiology, the scientific method and appropriate data analysis.
Introduces principles of modern genetics and evolutionary theory with specific reference to the human species. Examines scientific method, biological laws governing heredity in individuals and populations, biological factors that influence health and disease, and the interplay between the human population and the environment. Analyzes the world's economic, demographic, and political problems from a biological perspective and discusses possible solutions.
Covers major aspects of human biology related to health science careers. Emphasizes the chemical, molecular, and physiological mechanisms underlying most common disease conditions.
Develops practical, hands-on experience with laboratory techniques used in the field of biotechnology. Applies specific techniques that vary depending on the current state of technology. Provides a bridge for entry-level and high school students who are interested in exploring the field of biotechnology.
Provides on-the-job learning to develop effective work habits, attitudes, and career awareness in paid or unpaid internships that are related to the discipline. Involves the development and documentation of learning objectives and the completion of an internship paper, presentation, or project. Includes both workplace supervisor and faculty adviser feedback and/or written evaluations.
Allows independent study for students who wish to extend their knowledge of a particular area of Biology through research and study. Utilizes an approved independent project. Includes one-on-one work with instructor. Interested students should contact a Biology instructor for assistance in developing a contract for learning about a specific topic.
Botany Courses
Emphasizes the physical and chemical aspects of life as related to plants. Includes cellular organization, metabolism, reproduction, heredity, ecology, evolution, and plant kingdom survey. Examines the anatomy and physiology of representative plants in each of the major plant groupings.
Introduces basic concepts related to plant structure, function, genetics, evolution, and domestication. Examines the economic, aesthetic, and ecological roles of plants, and considers the role of plants as a force in shaping civilizations. Stresses the importance of plants and plant products in everyday life, as well as their ritualistic and pharmacological uses. Presents basic scientific principles and techniques using examples from plants and their products to gain an understanding of science and its value in today's society.
Allows independent study for students who wish to extend their knowledge of a particular area of Botany through research and study. Utilizes an approved independent project. Includes one-on-one work with instructor. Interested students should contact a Botany instructor for assistance in developing a contract for learning about a specific topic.
Microbiology Courses
Emphasizes microbiological principles and lab techniques related to the morphology, metabolism, genetics, classification, and ecology of bacteria. Characterizes viruses and eukaryotic microorganisms. Focuses on human disease including characteristics of pathogens, immunology, and epidemiology. Practices laboratory exercises including aseptic technique, staining, the determination of bacterial growth conditions and requirements, and the identification of an unknown bacterium. Applies microbiology in clinical applications.
Allows independent study for students who wish to extend their knowledge of a particular area of Microbiology through research and study. Utilizes an approved independent project. Includes one-on-one work with instructor. Interested students should contact a Microbiology instructor for assistance in developing a contract for learning about a specific topic.
Physiology Courses
Studies the physiological principles, function, integration and homeostasis of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, organ system and organism level: integumentary system, bone, skeletal system, smooth and cardiac muscles, nervous system, sensory organs, cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, endocrine system, and reproductive system. Utilizes laboratory computer simulations and experiments to demonstrate basic principles and introduce physiological techniques and instruments.
Studies the physiological principles, function, integration and homeostasis of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, organ system and organism level: integumentary system, bone, skeletal system, smooth and cardiac muscles, nervous system, sensory organs, cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, endocrine system, and reproductive system. Utilizes laboratory computer simulations and experiments to demonstrate basic principles and introduce physiological techniques and instruments. Honors work challenges students to be more analytical and creative through expanded assignments, real-world applications, and enrichment opportunities.
Allows independent study for students who wish to extend their knowledge of a particular area of Physiology through research and study. Utilizes an approved independent project. Includes one-on-one work with instructor. Interested students should contact a Physiology instructor for assistance in developing a contract for learning about a specific topic.
Zoology Courses
Covers the comparative structure, function, evolution, and a survey of animal phyla. Includes development, morphology and physiology, microevolution and macroevolution, taxonomy and systematics, molecular and morphological phylogeny, and animal behavior.
Allows independent study for students who wish to extend their knowledge of a particular area of Zoology through research and study. Utilizes an approved independent project. Includes one-on-one work with instructor. Interested students should contact a Zoology instructor for assistance in developing a contract for learning about a specific topic.
Dean
Carol Higashida, Phone (805) 378-1459
Faculty
Sandy Bryant, Audrey Chen, Katherine Courtney, Hovik Gasparyan, Carrie Geisbauer, Jazmir Hernandez, Jana Johnson, Subhash Karkare, Nathan Marten, Beth Miller, Eric Shargo, Melia Tabbakhian, Sean Wilcox
Counselors
Daniel Aguilar, Eddie Beltran, Pablo Diaz, Jodi Dickey, Ashley Lajoie, Samantha Zaldivar