Biology and Biotechnology

BIOL 103 Human Anatomy for Funeral Services

• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Corequisite:FSE 300
• Enrollment Limitation:An off-site clinical laboratory component of the course may require a background check, drug screening, and testing for hepatitis B.
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an intensive study of the structure of the human body. It covers the basic terminology of anatomy, microscopic anatomy, the four major tissue types, and all the organ systems of the human body. Topics include the following systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive. Laboratory assignments develop skills of observation, investigation, and identification of selected structures. It emphasizes the regions and structures relevant to embalming techniques through the dissection of a human cadaver. This course is designed for students preparing for a career in funeral service.

BIOL 130 Microbiology for Funeral Service

• Units:3
• Hours:54 hours LEC
• Prerequisite:CHEM 130 with a grade of "C" or better
• Corequisite:FSE 312 and 330
• Advisory:BIOL 300 with a grade of "C" or better
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers a survey of the basic principles of microbiology. It relates these principles to Funeral Service Education especially as they pertain to sanitation, disinfection, public health, infectious disease, and embalming practice.

BIOL 295 Independent Studies in Biology

• Units:1 - 3
• Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

BIOL 299 Experimental Offering in Biology

• Units:0.5 - 4
• Prerequisite:None.
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

BIOL 300 The Foundations of Biology

• Units:3
• Hours:54 hours LEC
• Prerequisite:None.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitations: BIOL 300, BIOL C1000/303 and BIOL 310 combined: maximum credit, 1 course; No credit for BIOL 300, BIOL C1000/303 or BIOL 310 if taken after BIOL 400.)
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course for non-science majors covers basic biological principles and how they relate to humans. Topics include an introduction to the philosophy of science and basic cell chemistry, structure, and physiology. An introduction to basic genetics (transmission and molecular) as well as some biotechnology principles are discussed. Additionally, human body systems, evolution, reproduction and development, as well as ecology and human impacts on the environment are addressed.

BIOL 301 Evolution

• Units:3
• Hours:54 hours LEC
• Prerequisite:None.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This non-science majors course is an introduction to evolutionary biology. It explores the history of life and the mechanisms that give rise to the diversity of life on earth. Topics include the scientific method, the history of evolutionary thought, the origins of life, population genetics, speciation, evolutionary developmental biology and systematics.

BIOL C1000 Introduction to Biology with Lab

• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitations: BIOL 300, BIOL C1000/303 and BIOL 310 combined: maximum credit, 1 course; No credit for BIOL 300, BIOL C1000/303 or BIOL 310 if taken after BIOL 400.)
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course was formerly known as BIOL 303 Survey of Biology.

This combined lecture and laboratory course provides the non-biology major with an introduction
to living things and their environment. Students use experimentation and investigation to develop
important critical thinking skills. Students learn about the process of science, the building blocks of
life, the role and regulation of DNA, how populations change over time, the movement of energy
within and between life forms, and how species interact with each other and their surroundings. By
the end of the course, students will be able to apply an understanding of biological concepts to
current issues and their impacts on society. This course was formerly known as BIOL 303 and is not open to students who have successfully completed BIOL 303.

BIOL 304 Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology

• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B (effective Fall 2026); Cal-GETC Area 5C (effective Fall 2026)
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines body systems from an anatomical and physiological point of view. The basic anatomy and physiology of all the body systems are covered with an emphasis on developing vocabulary in each area. This course is an introductory course for health career programs, such as Healthcare Interpreting, Gerontology Health Care, and Funeral Service that require one semester of combined Anatomy and Physiology. This course is not open to students who have successfully completed BIOL 102.

BIOL 305 Natural History

• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers basic biological and ecological principles to explain the origin and diversity of living organisms. Topics range from landscape formation and habitats to the adaptations organisms have evolved to live in their environment. Although this is a broad survey course, it emphasizes California environments. Dissection is not part of this curriculum. This course is designed as an introductory course and for non-majors who enjoy the outdoors. Field trips may be required.

BIOL 310 General Biology

• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitations: BIOL 300, BIOL C1000/303 and BIOL 310 combined: maximum credit, 1 course; No credit for BIOL 300, BIOL C1000/303 or BIOL 310 if taken after BIOL 400.)
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This laboratory course for non-science majors covers basic biological principles and how they relate to humans. Concepts include cell chemistry, structure, and physiology; genetics (transmission and molecular); biotechnology; human body systems; evolution; reproduction and development; ecology; and human impacts on the environment.

BIOL 322 Ethnobotany

• Units:3
• Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course focuses on the multicultural use of plants. Emphasis is on the identification and use of plants from several cultures including the American Indians, Europeans, South Americans, and Chinese. Topics include the use of plants for food, medicine, basketry, technology, shelter, and music. Sight recognition of plants is emphasized. An analysis of ethnicity and ethnocentrism is also included. Field trips may be required.

BIOL 332 Introduction to Ornithology

• Same As:NATR 301
• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This introductory course covers the biology and natural history of birds. Topics include evolutionary origins of birds and of flight, avian anatomy and physiology, and bird behavior, such as migration, song, feeding ecology, and mating systems. Conservation strategies are also investigated. Laboratory work explores bird structure and function, taxonomic classification, and species identification, particularly of those found in California and the western United States. Field trips may be required. This course is not open to students who have completed NATR 301.

BIOL 342 The New Plagues: New and Ancient Infectious Diseases Threatening World Health

• Units:3
• Hours:54 hours LEC
• Prerequisite:None.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 5B
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores the biology, epidemiology, and pathology of selected pathogens such as prions, viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and helminths that threaten public health on a global scale. It explores the interaction between human behavior and disease agents on the emergence of new infectious agents and the re-emergence of ancient plagues.

BIOL 352 Conservation Biology

• Units:3
• Hours:54 hours LEC
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces biological and ecological principles involved in understanding and analyzing environmental problems and exploring scientifically sound conservation approaches. Major topics include forms and patterns of biodiversity, values of biodiversity, threats to biodiversity, conservation at the population and species levels, applied conservation biology, and conservation and sustainable development at the local, regional, national, and international levels. It places emphasis on scientific processes and methodology, while also examining the economic, social, political, and ethical aspects of conservation issues. Course themes are explored through extensive use of interactive case studies, discussion, and activities surrounding relevant current events. Field trips may be required.

BIOL 370 Marine Biology

• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an introduction to marine biology. It includes the study of cell biology, evolution, physical oceanography, marine algae, marine vertebrate and invertebrate animals, and the ecology of various marine zones. Field trips focusing on the Central and Northern California coast are required and serve as the laboratory component of this course. Field experiences may include but are not limited to natural history of the rocky intertidal, invertebrate identification, salt marsh ecology, sandy beach ecology, or estuary ecology. This course is not open to students who have completed BIOL 482.

BIOL 375 Marine Ecology

• Units:3
• Hours:54 hours LEC
• Prerequisite:None.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course for non-science majors is an introduction to the marine physical environment, the diversity of marine life, and the complex interactions between the two. It uses the marine environment as a model for introducing the key concepts of the scientific method, ecology, evolution, biodiversity, and sustainability.

BIOL 390 Natural History Field Study

• Units:0.5 - 4
• Hours:3 - 24 hours LEC; 18 - 144 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course focuses on the ecology and natural history of specific habitats of biological interest. Course content varies according to field destination but may include topics in botany, zoology, marine, conservation, and geography. Field study methodology and tools are also covered. Field trips are required and field trip expense fees may be required.

BIOL 400 Principles of Biology

• Units:5
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:CHEM 400 with a grade of "C" or better
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: No credit for BIOL 300, BIOL 303 or BIOL 310 if taken after BIOL 400.)
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• C-ID:C-ID BIOL 190; Part of C-ID BIOL 135S
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces biological concepts important for a general understanding and background for biology majors and pre-professional programs. Emphasis is on the scientific method and basic processes common to all forms of life. Topics include cell structure and function, cell physiology, cell reproduction, Mendelian and molecular genetics, evolution, and ecology.

BIOL 410 Principles of Botany

• Units:5
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:BIOL 400 with a grade of "C" or better
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• C-ID:C-ID BIOL 155; Part of C-ID BIOL 130S; Part of C-ID BIOL 135S
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the general principles of botany for science majors. It builds upon and applies concepts developed in cell and molecular biology to the study of plants. It covers the anatomy and physiology, morphology, ecology, diversity, and evolution of higher plants. Thorough cladistic analysis is used to study phylogenetic relationships among the cyanobacteria, protists, fungi, and all major plant phyla. It also covers general ecological principles. Field trips may be required.

BIOL 415 Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity, Evolution, and Ecology

• Units:5
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:BIOL 400 with a grade of "C" or better
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• C-ID:C-ID BIOL 140; Part of C-ID BIOL 135S
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course, intended for science majors, introduces the ecological and evolutionary processes that shape biodiversity, relating the patterns of biodiversity to small and large scale environmental effects. The diversity of life on Earth (including animals, plants, fungi, protists, and additional unicellular organisms) is covered. Overarching themes include evolutionary mechanisms, phylogenetic analysis, interactions of organisms with the environment, and global processes and patterns. Not open for credit to students who have completed BIOL 410 and BIOL 420 with a grade of C or better. Field trips may be required.

BIOL 420 Principles of Zoology

• Units:5
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:BIOL 400 with a grade of "C" or better
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• C-ID:C-ID BIOL 150; Part of C-ID BIOL 130S; Part of C-ID BIOL 135S
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers general principles of zoology. Topics covered include a survey of the animal kingdom, embryology, evolution, systematics, ecology, and comparative anatomy and physiology. Field trips may be required.

BIOL 430 Anatomy and Physiology

• Units:5
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:CHEM 305, 309, or 400 with a grade of "C" or better
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• C-ID:Part of C-ID BIOL 115S
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course emphasizes the integration of structure and function of the human body. It is built on the study of anatomical terminology, cells, and tissues, followed by expansion into the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Laboratory study is enhanced by the microscopic investigation of tissues, examination of anatomical models, cadavers, and the dissection of preserved material. Laboratory activities may also include both wet-lab experiments and computer simulations. BIOL 431 must be subsequently taken to complete the study of all major body systems.

BIOL 431 Anatomy and Physiology

• Units:5
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:BIOL 430 with a grade of "C" or better
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• C-ID:Part of C-ID BIOL 115S
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This lecture and laboratory course in human anatomy and physiology emphasizes the integration of structure and function. It provides students with an understanding of the structure, function, and regulation of the human body through the physiological integration of the following systems: cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, endocrine, and reproductive. Laboratory study is enhanced by the microscopic study of tissues, examination of anatomical models, and the dissection of preserved material. Laboratory activity is also enhanced by the examination of whole cadavers as well as prosected head, torso, upper and lower extremities, and individual organs. Laboratory activities also include both wet-lab experiments and computer simulations. Both BIOL 430 and BIOL 431 must be taken to complete the study of all major body systems.

BIOL 440 General Microbiology

• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:CHEM 305, 309, or 400 with a grade of "C" or better
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340; AND Completion of BIOL 300 or CHEM 306 with a grade of "C" or better.
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces microorganisms and their effects on human health. It examines the structure, physiology, metabolism, and genetics of microorganisms. Laboratory work includes aseptic technique, morphological and biochemical properties of microorganisms, and medically relevant issues regarding microorganisms.

BIOL 442 General Microbiology and Public Health

• Units:5
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:CHEM 305 with a grade of "C" or better and one of the following: BIOL 300, BIOL 303, BIOL 310, or BIOL 431 with a grade of "C" or better
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides a survey of bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and helminths that are associated with human infectious diseases and public health. It examines their cellular and molecular structure, physiology, metabolism, and genetics. Laboratory work introduces methods for cultivating and characterizing microorganisms.

BIOL 482 Honors Marine Biology

• Units:4
• Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:Eligibility for the ARC Honors Program.
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B; Cal-GETC Area 5C
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an honors level introduction to marine biology. It differs from the non-honors course primarily in 3 ways. First, it frequently employs a seminar style, requiring that students take a larger role in presentation of course content. Second, it uses an expanded reading list, supplementing the textbook with journal articles. Third, its exams use entirely subjective questions, requiring a deeper level of analysis. The course explores physical oceanography, marine algae, marine vertebrate and invertebrate animals, and the ecology of various marine zones. Field trips focusing on intertidal organisms of the Central and Northern California Coast are required. Field experiences may include but are not limited to designing and conducting experiments in the rocky intertidal, invertebrate identification, salt marsh ecology, sandy beach ecology, estuary ecology, or comparative anatomy of fishes. The course is not open to students who have completed BIOL 370.

BIOL 491 Science Skills and Applications II

• Units:0.5
• Hours:27 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Corequisite:Current enrollment in a science, nutrition, or nursing course.
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course offers individualized instructional modules designed to acquire or improve study strategies for science, nursing, or nutrition courses. Strategies include goal setting, the intensive study cycle, graphic organizers, constructing and interpreting graphs, mastering science vocabulary, self monitoring while reading, coding method of reading, and advanced problem solving. This course is offered in a flexible TBA format of 27 laboratory hours to accommodate the student's schedule. Registration is open through the ninth week of the semester. Pass/No Pass only.

BIOL 495 Independent Studies in Biology

• Units:1 - 3
• Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

BIOL 499 Experimental Offering in Biology

• Units:0.5 - 4
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

BIOLFS 499 Experimental Offering in Biology Field Studies

• Units:0.5 - 4
• Prerequisite:None.
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

BIOT 301 Biotechnology and Human Health

• Units:3
• Hours:54 hours LEC
• Prerequisite:BIOL C1000, BIOL 310, BIOL 400, BIOL 440, BIOL 442, or BIOT 307 with a grade of "C" or better
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces biotechnology as it pertains to human health and disease. Topics include an introduction to molecular biology and genetics, recombinant DNA technology, biopharmaceutical products, forensics and genetic testing, stem cells and regenerative medicine, genomics and bioinformatics, and ethical issues arising from biotechnology disease diagnosis and treatment.

BIOT 305 Introduction to Bioinformatics

• Units:1
• Hours:14 hours LEC; 14 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:BIOL C1000, BIOL 310, BIOL 400, BIOL 440, BIOL 442, BIOT 301, or BIOT 307 with a grade of "C" or better
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines the basic concepts and techniques in bioinformatics, the computer analysis of nucleic acids and proteins. Topics include biotechnology databases, database searching, structure and function analysis of biological molecules, sequence alignment and analysis, and biological applications of bioinformatics.

BIOT 307 Biotechnology and Society

• Units:2
• Hours:36 hours LEC
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU; UC
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines the scientific and social impact of biotechnology by introducing basic technical concepts to examine recent advances. Topics include biotechnology applications in medicine, agriculture, industry, and the environment, and their ethical implications and public perception.

BIOT 311 Biotechnology Laboratory Methods - Molecular Techniques

• Units:2
• Hours:18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:BIOL 300, BIOL C1000, BIOL 310, BIOL 400, BIOL 440, BIOL 442, or BIOT 307 with a grade of "C" or better
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers basic concepts and techniques to work effectively in a bioscience laboratory. Topics include laboratory solution preparation, recombinant DNA methods and nucleic acid analysis techniques, protein separation and analytical techniques, good laboratory practice, and product quality issues.

BIOT 312 Biotechnology Laboratory Methods - Microbial and Cell Culture Techniques

• Units:2
• Hours:18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:BIOL 300, BIOL C1000, BIOL 310, BIOL 400, BIOL 440, BIOL 442, or BIOT 307 with a grade of "C" or better
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers basic concepts and techniques to work effectively in a bioscience laboratory. Topics include media preparation, microbial and plant cell culture techniques, biosafety guidelines, and DNA and enzyme diagnostic techniques.

BIOT 498 Work Experience in Biotechnology

• Units:0.5 - 4
• Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
• Prerequisite:None.
• Enrollment Limitation:Before students can participate in the Work Experience program, Los Rios Community College District must have a signed Employer Agreement on file with the student’s employer. If the employer already has an active agreement with the district (viewable at losrios.edu/wexpemployeragreement), no further action is required. In addition, students must have a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position, or job that aligns with their career goals and a cooperating worksite supervisor who will sign all required course documents. Dual enrollment students are not permitted to enroll in Work Experience courses. Students are advised to consult with the Biotechnology Department faculty to review specific certificate and degree work experience requirements.
• Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
• Transferable:CSU
• General Education:Local GE L7B
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides students with opportunities to reflect on their current skills, knowledge and abilities and explore how these are work assets and how these can be enhanced and/or developed to increase employability within the field of biotechnology. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in transfer-level degree occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce, completion of Title 5 required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at an approved work site, and developing workplace skills and competencies.

During the semester, the student is required to complete 27 hours of related work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units.

Students new to Work Experience will be required to engage weekly while returning participants may meet individually with the instructor as needed. All students are required to attend the first course meeting.

Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings. This course may be taken up to four times. Students are encouraged to develop new or expanded learning objectives in consultation with their employer when the course is repeated. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

BIOT 499 Experimental Offering in Biology

• Units:0.5 - 4
• Prerequisite:None.
• Transferable:CSU
• Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.