Biology
21 courses · Solano Community College · 2025-2026 Catalog
Classes: Spring 2026
BIO 002 Cell and Molecular Biology
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 6 hours lab weekly, 162 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- CHEM 001 (General Chemistry I)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- BIOL 190
This course, intended for biology majors, covers the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, biological molecules, cell reproduction and its controls, Mendelian and molecular genetics, cell physiology and metabolism including cellular respiration and photosynthesis, cellular communication, and homeostasis. An extensive laboratory component teaches the techniques used in biotechnology to manipulate DNA and to study proteins.
BIO 003 Evolution, Ecology & Biodiversity
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 6 hours lab weekly, 162 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- BIO 002 (Cell and Molecular Biology)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- BIOL 140
This course, intended for biology majors, is a survey of the basic biology and diversity of unicellular and multicellular organisms. It emphasizes general biological principles, classification, structure, function, and evolutionary adaptations of organisms to their environments.
BIO 004 Human Anatomy
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 6 hours lab weekly, 162 contact hours total
- Advisory
- BIO 016 (Introduction to Human Biology) Strongly recommended and BIO 016L (Human Biology Laboratory) Strongly recommended
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- BIOL 110B
A study of the structural organization of the human body from the cellular to the organismal level. Throughout the course various types of instruction are used including microscopic investigation of prepared slides of tissues and organs, and gross anatomical examination of cadavers and prosected human material. This course is primarily intended for nursing, allied health, kinesiology, and other health related majors.
BIO 005 Human Physiology
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 6 hours lab weekly, 162 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- BIO 004 (Human Anatomy) Choose one chemistry course and CHEM 001 (General Chemistry I) or CHEM 010 (Intermediate Chemistry) or CHEM 012 (Chemistry for the Health Sciences)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- BIOL 120B
A study of physiological and homeostatic mechanisms of body systems in health and disease. The laboratory relates structure to function, uses instrumentation to measure physiological variables, and enables students to critically evaluate functional status. This course is primarily intended for nursing, allied health, kinesiology, and other health related majors.
BIO 012 Environmental Science
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 54 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Examines environmental issues from a scientific perspective by using an understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological processes of the Earth system to examine the interaction between humans and these processes. Topics include ecological principles, biodiversity, human population growth, climate change, air and water pollution, solid waste management, and the management of renewable and non-renewable energy, water, land, soil, and mineral resources. The course utilizes knowledge of these subject to find solutions to environmental challenges. Field trips may be required.
BIO 012L Environmental Science Laboratory
- Units
- 1.5
- Hours
- 0.5 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 63 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- BIO 012 (Environmental Science) May enroll concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A combination of laboratory investigations and field trips are used to introduce students to the scientific method and experimental design, demonstrate basic ecological principles, and familiarize students with local resources. Field trips may be required.
BIO 014 Principles of Microbiology
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- CHEM 012 (Chemistry for the Health Sciences) This course is highly recommended as the prerequisite for students pursuing a program in Allied Health or CHEM 001 (General Chemistry I) or CHEM 010 (Intermediate Chemistry)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
The study of the structure, morphology, physiology, genetics, diversity, evolution, and ecology of microorganisms. The course also includes principles of immunology, the control of microbes, and their relationship to disease control and prevention. Laboratory exercises cover microscopy, staining, aseptic techniques, identification, and microbial growth.
BIO 015 Introduction to Biology
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Intended for non-science majors, a survey of biology including biological chemistry, cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, and ecology. The laboratory component emphasizes the scientific method to reinforce lecture concepts. Off-campus field trips may be scheduled.
BIO 016 Introduction to Human Biology
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 54 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introduction to general biology with emphasis on the human model. Topics include cell structure and function, human evolution, anatomy and physiology, genetics, and the human impact on the environment. Recommended course for students planning to take Human Anatomy. Not advised for students who have completed BIO 004 and/or BIO 005.
BIO 016L Human Biology Laboratory
- Units
- 1.5
- Hours
- 0.5 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 63 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- BIO 016 (Introduction to Human Biology) May enroll concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A non-majors laboratory course providing an introduction to general biology with an emphasis on the human model. Topics include microscopy, cell structure and function, human anatomy and physiology, genetics and the human impact on the environment. Off-campus field trips may be required and may involve a fee.
BIO 018 Biology of Sex
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 54 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An exploration of the biological aspects of sex and gender in humans, examining the development and function of human reproductive systems as well as genetic disorders and acquired diseases that can disrupt these processes. This course is intended for non-majors.
BIO 019 Marine Biology
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A non-majors course that studies the diversity and natural history of life in the marine environment with an emphasis on the adaptations of organisms to their environment.
BIO 020 Infectious Disease, Plagues, and Public Health
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 54 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Examine infectious disease and the changing disease landscape from the molecular to the ecological level. Topics include cell structure and function, microorganisms, immunity, epidemiology, historical plagues, emerging diseases, prevention and treatment, and conditions that promote novel disease emergence. This is a course designed for non-science majors.
BIO 025 Human Genetics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 54 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is designed to provide an understanding of basic principles of genetics, current developments in genetics, and the influence of genes and the environment in determining human characteristics.
BIO 030 The Natural History of California
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Explore California's diverse ecosystems through classroom learning and hands-on field experiences. Topics include the natural history, ecology, stewardship, and conservation of California's unique regions. Highlights of this course include gaining a comprehensive understanding of California's plant and animal communities, participating in required field trips to experience diverse ecosystems firsthand, and becoming eligible for California Naturalist certification from UCANR upon successful completion of the course. This certification provides access to ongoing training, workshops, and networking opportunities.
BIO 031 Introduction to Entomology
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introduction to the biology of insects, arachnids, and other arthropods. Topics include the biochemistry, cell biology, anatomy, physiology, behavior, evolution, classification, genetics, diversity, and distribution of arthropods and their effects on human populations and public health.
BIO 047 Independent Study
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lab weekly, 24 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- A minimum grade of C in 12.0 units, including 4.0 units from within the discipline.
- Transfers to
- CSU
A course of independent study designed for students who intend to major in biological sciences or pre-professional programs.
BIO 049 Biology Honors
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 9 hours lab weekly, 162 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of 24.0 units of college credit with a minimum GPA of 3.3; a minimum of 5.0 units in the discipline with a minimum grade of B; an ability to work independently and permission of the School Dean based on instructor availability and BIO 002 (Cell and Molecular Biology) may enroll concurrently or BIO 005 (Human Physiology) may enroll concurrently or BIO 014 (Principles of Microbiology) may enroll concurrently or BIO 015 (Introduction to Biology) may enroll concurrently
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course students complete an independent student project under the supervision of a member of the faculty. The project may be a laboratory or field study, or a library study that leads to a thesis. In all cases, the final written product should show integration and synthesis of ideas. Students may enroll in this course up to the maximum number of units over multiple semesters.
BIO 099 Biology Honors: Dissection
- Units
- 0.5-2
- Hours
- 6 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of 24 units of college credit with a minimum GPA of 3.3; an ability to work independently; and permission of the Division Dean based on instructor availability. and BIO 004 (Human Anatomy) Minimum grade of B
- Transfers to
- CSU
An independent study project designed to increase understanding of human anatomy through detailed dissection and other projects assigned by the supervising instructor.
BIO 101 How To Study Science
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 0.5 hours lecture weekly, 9 contact hours total
This course provides a step-by-step approach for success in transferable science courses. Topics include: overcoming science anxiety; learning how science courses are organized; how best to learn and retain scientific information; how to use science textbooks, common scientific terms, and symbols; how to analyze figures; how to develop test-taking skills to prepare for lecture and laboratory tests; and more.
BIO 160 Review of Scientific Principles of Pre-Nursing
- Units
- 2.5
- Hours
- 2.5 hours lecture weekly, 45 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Current acceptance or on the waiting list of an RN program.
This course focuses on science and mathematics topics that are critical to success for students entering an RN program. It provides a clinically pertinent review of select anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and microbiology topics for students entering nursing school. It is especially designed for students that have had an extended time period between finishing their pre-nursing requirements and entering nursing school. This course is taught by a panel of experts in the field. Case studies are extensively used in order to contextualize the material.