Biology
30 courses · Cuesta College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Summer 2026 · Fall 2026
BIO 201A BIOLOGY
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 9 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/6.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- CHEM 200 or One year of high school chemistry with a minimum grade of C or better and Eligibility for transfer-level math using the current college process
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- BIOL 190. BIO 201A+201B = C-ID BIO 135S, C-ID BIO 130S.
Presents the philosophy of science, methods of scientific inquiry, and experimental design. The course will also cover principles and applications of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function, biological molecules, homeostasis, cell reproduction and its controls, cell metabolism including photosynthesis and respiration, protein synthesis, classical/Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, cellular communication, and biotechnology.
BIO 201B BIOLOGY
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 9 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/6.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- BIO 201A
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- BIOL 140. BIO 201A+201B = C-ID BIO 135S, C-ID BIO 130S
Continues 201A with surveys of the biology, diversity, classification, and evolution of unicellular and multicellular organisms as well as foundational ecological principles. Emphasizes the classification, structure, and function of organisms, ecological principles, as well as theory and mechanisms of evolution. This course is the second in a sequence intended for biology majors.
BIO 202 GENERAL BOTANY
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 9 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/6.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- Completion of any 3-unit or more college level biology course with a lab with a minimum grade of C or better or Completion of high school AP biology with a minimum grade of C or better or AGPS 242
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Presents the scientific study of botany. Introduces concepts related to the anatomy, morphology, physiology, and ecology of plants. Summarizes the diversity and evolution of plants, protists, fungi, and photosynthetic bacteria. Includes an appreciation of the beauty and usefulness of plants.
BIO 204 MICROBIOLOGY
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 9 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/6.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- CHEM 200 or One year of high school chemistry with a minimum grade of C or better
- Advisory
- BIO 201A
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Delves into microbes' unique characteristics, emphasizing the significant infectious disease agents and their impact on public health. Examines the general characteristics of infectious disease with emphasis on etiology, epidemiology, and host-parasite interactions. Prepares students for advanced classes in the field of healthcare.
BIO 205 HUMAN ANATOMY
- Hours
- 8 hours per week: (2.00 lecture hours/6.00 lab hours)
- Advisory
- ENGL 156
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Studies human anatomy with models and selected preserved material to demonstrate the anatomical systems. Utilizes an audio-tutorial approach to instruction.
BIO 206 GENERAL HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 7 hours per week: (4.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- CHEM 200 or One year of high school chemistry with a minimum grade of C or better BIO 205
- Advisory
- BIO 201A
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- BIOL 120B
Presents physiological principles, function, integration, and homeostasis of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, organ system and organism levels. Study functions in normal healthy conditions and the mechanisms of disease.
BIO 209C COASTAL BIOLOGY FIELD STUDIES
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (0.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Advisory
- Any 3 unit or greater college level biology course.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Utilizes field observations and techniques used to appreciate and evaluate California's coastal ecosystems. Includes hiking, water activities (kayaking, whale watching, snorkeling, etc.), camping, and nearshore exploration to investigate coastal organisms and habitats. Includes additional student expenses associated with camping, food, transportation, and incidentals.
BIO 209D DESERT BIOLOGY FIELD STUDIES
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (0.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours/0.00 activity hours)
- Advisory
- Any 3 unit or greater college level biology course.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Presents a field study course on the California deserts. Includes the formation of the deserts and the ecological relationship of desert plants and animals. Practices field techniques used in data collection and analysis. Camping, food, and other expenses will be shared by the students.
BIO 209I ISLAND BIOLOGY
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (0.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours/0.00 activity hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Explores the ecology, evolution, and conservation of the islands of California through field studies. Investigates the unique flora and fauna of island communities while practicing field sampling techniques to gain an understanding of island biodiversity and natural history. Additional expenses associated with camping, food, and transportation will be the responsibility of the student.
BIO 209S SIERRA BIOLOGY FIELD STUDIES
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (0.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours/0.00 activity hours)
- Advisory
- Any 3 unit or greater college level biology course.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Studies Sierra ecosystems with emphasis on riparian and meadow habitats, Alpine and coniferous forest ecology and grandeur. Practices field study observations and techniques. Camping, food, and other expenses will be the responsibility of students.
BIO 210M ENVIRONMENTAL AND APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 4 hours per week: (1.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000
- Transfers to
- CSU
Presents an examination of microorganisms in the environment including: occurrence, abundance, and distribution; processes of microbial interaction with the environment; importance to human and animal health and practices of applied environmental microbiology.
BIO 210R NATURAL HISTORY OF THE COAST RANGES
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 4 hours per week: (1.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Presents a lecture and field study course on the ecology and natural history of the coast ranges. Includes the study of their geological history, native plant and animal communities, human impacts, and the history and function of the preservation and conservation of ecosystems including the national forest, Bureau of Land Management, and California state parks. A field trip will reinforce and elaborate upon lecture material. Field techniques also will be taught on the field trip. Students will be required to maintain and turn in a standardized field notebook. Camping, food, transportation, and other expenses will be the responsibility of the students. Students should be prepared for camping in a moist, coastal environment and extensive hiking on and off trails from sea level to over 2000 feet over rugged terrain.
BIO 211 LIFE SCIENCE
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 5 hours per week: (2.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Introduces the non-biology major to the organization and evolution of life and the structure and function of living systems from cells to biomes. Utilizes the lecture and laboratory approach to instruction.
BIO 212 HUMAN BIOLOGY
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/0.00 lab hours/0.00 activity hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Introduces fundamental structural and functional concepts of the human body systems, and their disorders and therapies. Designed for non-science majors and pre-allied health/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) students. Provides an appreciation for popular interests such as fitness, immunity, inheritance, and common medical terminology.
BIO 212L HUMAN BIOLOGY LABORATORY
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (0.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours/0.00 activity hours)
- Prerequisite
- BIO 212 or
- Corequisite
- BIO 212
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Provides laboratory instruction to accompany Human Biology (BIO 212), a general education course for non-biology majors and pre-allied health/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) students. Presents an introduction to the biology of the human species, designed to create an awareness and understanding of the human body functions, human's place in nature and the mechanics of human heredity. Includes direct participation in experiments, demonstrations, and discussions. Topics include elements of human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, disease, elements of human heredity and environmental adaptations, and interpretations of relevant current topics in biology.
BIO 213 GENETICS IN SOCIETY
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/0.00 lab hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Introduces the basic principles of genetics and heredity. Emphasizes current advances in genetics, including stem cell research, cloning, cancer, and genetically modified crops. Presents information on the human genome and many human genes that are important for health. Investigates the social consequences and ethical implications of biotechnology in medicine and agriculture.
BIO 216 PLANTS & PEOPLE
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 6 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Presents current and historical uses of plants by people of different cultures. Includes the structure, physiology, reproduction, taxonomy, diversity, evolution, and ecology of plants. Laboratory work includes setting up experiments, growing, and propagating plants.
BIO 220 ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/0.00 lab hours/0.00 activity hours)
- Advisory
- ENGL C1001
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Presents a study of biological concepts, processes, and organismal biology, including scientific methodology, metabolism, genetics, evolution, and ecology. These concepts are used to assess environmental issues, including human population growth, biodiversity, biological conservation, pollution, and resource and energy use.
BIO 220L ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY LAB
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (0.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- BIO 220
- Corequisite
- BIO 220 or
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Presents an optional laboratory course designed to complement BIO 220 (Environmental Biology). Applies and expands knowledge gained in BIO 220 through field trips, laboratory investigations, and special projects.
BIO 221 ECOLOGY
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 6 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Presents plant and animal communities, emphasizing the interrelationships of living organisms and their living and non-living environment. Lectures emphasize major ecological principles and/or concepts associated with organisms, populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere. Laboratories emphasize gathering and interpreting ecological data in the lab and the field.
BIO 222 MARINE BIOLOGY
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (3.00 lecture hours/0.00 lab hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Emphasizes marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and ecology. Provides an overview of marine biology and includes an introduction to oceanography. Focuses on comparative studies of marine plants and animals, research, human impacts, and the conservation of the marine environment.
BIO 222L MARINE BIOLOGY LABORATORY
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3 hours per week: (0.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- BIO 222 or
- Corequisite
- BIO 222
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Provides a field and laboratory survey of marine biodiversity and ecology, with emphasis placed on exploring local marine life and habitats. Laboratory exercises focus on the identification and observation of marine organisms. Field labs include kayaking, nearshore habitats, tide pooling, and visits to aquaria and/or museums. This course complements and enhances Marine Biology lecture (BIO 222), through hands-on field and laboratory investigations.
BIO 224 PRINCIPLES OF NATURAL HISTORY
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 5 hours per week: (2.00 lecture hours/3.00 lab hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Presents an ecological approach to the natural history of terrestrial plants and animals in California. Includes topics such as classification, relationships to environment, interrelationships, problems of life, economic importance, and field biology techniques.
BIO 240 BIOLOGY TEACHING ASSISTANT
- Units
- 0.5 to 2
- Hours
- 0.5 to 2 hours per week: (0.50 - 2.00 lecture hours/0.00 - 0.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- Instructor approval
- Transfers to
- CSU
Prepares students to facilitate biology courses by developing tutorial skills, understanding of the learning process, and effectiveness as a teaching assistant.
BIO 241 BIOLOGY LAB ASSISTANT
- Units
- 0.5 to 2
- Hours
- 0.5 to 2 hours per week: (0.50 - 2.00 lecture hours/0.00 - 0.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- Instructor approval.
- Transfers to
- CSU
Prepares students to facility biology lab courses by developing laboratory, biosafety, and data acquisition skills.
BIO 242A BIOLOGY RESEARCH ASSISTANT LEVEL 1
- Units
- 0.5 to 2
- Hours
- 0.5 to 2 hours per week: (0.50 - 2.00 lecture hours/0.00 - 0.00 lab hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU
Applies principles and methods of biological research, allowing students to gain research experience at a beginning level, while working under faculty supervision.
BIO 242B BIOLOGY RESEARCH ASSISTANT LEVEL 2
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 0.5 hours per week: (0.50 lecture hours/0.00 lab hours/0.00 activity hours)
- Prerequisite
- BIO 242A
- Transfers to
- CSU
Applies principles and methods of biological research, allowing students to gain research experience at an intermediate level, while working under faculty supervision.
BIO 242C BIOLOGY RESEARCH ASSISTANT LEVEL 3
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 0.5 hours per week: (0.50 lecture hours/0.00 lab hours/0.00 activity hours)
- Prerequisite
- BIO 242B
- Transfers to
- CSU
Applies principles and methods of biological research, allowing students to gain research experience at an advanced level, while working under faculty supervision.
BIO 247 INDEPENDENT STUDIES: BIOLOGY
- Units
- 0.5 to 2
- Hours
- 1.5 to 6 hours per week: (0.00 - 0.00 lecture hours/1.50 - 6.00 lab hours)
- Prerequisite
- The student must have completed preparatory course work in the field in which the study is to be undertaken.
- Transfers to
- CSU
Provides an opportunity for an in-depth study or a practicum experience in a selected topic of biology under the direction of an instructor.
BIO 295 UNDERGRADUATE STEM SEMINAR
- Units
- 1 to 2
- Hours
- 1 to 2 hours per week: (1.00 - 2.00 lecture hours/0.00 - 0.00 lab hours/0.00 - 0.00 activity hours)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Introduces students to a variety of STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) using a seminar format. Explores a broad range of academic and career opportunities in STEM. Emphasizes professional and personal skills for success in STEM. Same as ANTH 295, ENGR 295, MATH 295, PSCI 295.