California State University, Fullerton
Department of Biological Science
Undergraduate
Advising Handbook
Catalog Year FALL 2023
McCarthy Hall-205, 800 N. State College Blvd., Fullerton, CA 92831
[email protected]
T 657-278-3614 / F 657-278-3426 / http://www.fullerton.edu/biology
Welcome to the Department of Biological Science at Cal State Fullerton! A Biology degree opens doors to
many exciting careers and life experiences. You have likely chosen Biology as a major because of a strong
interest in science and pursuing a biology-related career in biotechnology, environmental management and
conservation, research, forensics, teaching, journalism, law or government or continuing to a health
professions program or graduate school.
Biology is a challenging major, but your enthusiasm for science and your commitment to your long-term
goals will see you through. Persistence is the key, and we will help you every step of the way toward
graduation. The faculty and staff in the Department of Biological Science are dedicated to your success!
Please let us know how we can help.
Success as a Biology Major ultimately depends on the choices you make. Your time in your classes and
studying will take time and effort. There are many resources available that will help you be successful. Cal
State Fullerton offers a wealth of resources that are available to you. You can find free academic support
through Supplemental Instruction and at the Student Success Center for Natural Sciences and Mathematics
and the Writing Center. Support can be found at a wide variety of campus Resource Centers
(www.fullerton.edu/sa/ and www.fullerton.edu/dirc/), including health and well-being (ASI Food Pantry,
Tuffy’s Basic Needs, Disability Support Services, YOU@ Fullerton, and Health Services). In addition, there
are resources available to help you explore your career options through the Career Center and the Center for
Internships & Community Engagement. Most important, choose to become involved with the campus
through clubs and organizations. Joining student organizations, volunteering, and participating in
undergraduate research with a faculty mentor or as a member of a research program are all great ways to
form supportive connections with the campus, the department, and your fellow students.
This handbook is intended to help you plan and navigate the requirements for your bachelor’s degree in
Biological Science. Please review its contents from the first page to the last page. You can find information
on your degree requirements, the biology concentrations, planning your classes, faculty research interests,
scholarships, and more.
The Department of Biological Science provides academic advising to help you make progress towards
graduation. We offer group advising during the semesters you are taking lower division biology core courses
and one-on-one advising with a faculty advisor as you transition to your upper division electives. If you need
additional assistance at any time, please stop by the Department office (McCarthy Hall 205) or email
biola[email protected] and ask for help.
We look forward to meeting and working with you.
Sincerely,
Amybeth Cohen, Ph.D.
Professor and Chair
Department of Biological Science
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN BIOLOGY…………………………………........................... 1
BACHELOR’S DEGREE REQUIREMENTS ………………………………………………………….. 2
UNDERSTANDING YOUR CATALOG YEAR……………………………………………………….. 4
PLANNING YOUR COURSEWORK ……………………………………………………….…………. 5
BIOLOGY CORE AND SUPPORTING COURSES WORKSHEET ……………………….…………. 6
CELL AND DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY CONCENTRATION (C&D) ..........................………… 7
ECOLOGY & EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY CONCENTRATION (EEB) ………...........................… 10
MARINE BIOLOGY CONCENTRATION (MB) ……………………………………............................ 12
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY CONCENTRATION (MB&B) …………....… 15
PLANT BIOLOGY CONCENTRATION (PB) ..........................……………………………………...... 18
UPPER-DIVISION BIOLOGY MAJORS ELECTIVES . …………………………….…………........... 20
CSUF UNDERGRADUATE REPEAT POLICY AND WITHDRAWAL POLICY …………………... 22
ACADEMIC NOTICE (formerly Academic Probation) AND DISQUALIFICATION ........................... 23
MINORS IN BIOLOGY …………………….…………………………………………………………... 24
MINORS ASSOCIATED WITH BIOLOGY …………………………………………………………… 26
RESEARCH AND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNDERGRADUATE BIOLOGY MAJORS ….. 27
GENERAL EDUCATION INFORMATION …………………….…………………………………….... 29
BIOLOGICAL INTERNSHIP (BIOL 495) INFORMATION…………………………………………… 30
WHAT CAN I DO WITH MY BACHELORS DEGREE IN BIOLOGY? .……………………………... 31
HEALTH PROFESSIONS AS A BIOLOGY MAJOR ………………………………………………….. 32
TEACH SCIENCE AND IMPACT THE FUTURE ……………………………………………………... 34
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE FACULTY ROSTER ………………………................. 35
ADMINSTRATIVE OFFICES …………………………………………………………………………... 40
RESOURCES FOR BIOLOGY MAJORS ……………………………………………………………..... 41
revised June 28, 2023
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN BIOLOGY
Catalog Year Fall 2023
Declare your concentration during the semester you are taking your last lower-division
BIOL Core course
Complete 40 units of Biology major’s courses (BIOL Core and upper division courses to
fulfill a concentration), grade of C or higher in each, BIOL GPA 2.0
Complete Supporting Courses (MATH, CHEM, PHYS), grade of C or higher in each
Complete General Education Requirements
Complete American Government Graduation Requirement
Complete Upper-division Writing Requirement
Apply for Graduation through your Student Center at least 2 semesters before anticipated
graduation
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BACHELOR’S DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Use your Titan Degree Audit to track your progress toward completion of your degree
A. Major requirements: (minimum grade of C in each course)
40 units of Biology courses, including:
The Biology Core courses (BIOL 151, 152, 251, 253L, 252, 254L, and 325)
At least 21 units of upper division Biology electives fulfilling a concentration
(excludes Biology courses in GE Area B.5)
6 of the 21 units of upper division Biology must be laboratory/fieldwork
Minimum GPA of 2.0 in all attempted Biology courses
34 units of supporting courses – Minimum grade of C (2.0) in each
B. University requirements:
120 units for the Bachelor of Science. Students must complete 120 units to
graduate. Some students may require additional units of free electives to reach 120
or more units.
CSUF GPA and Cumulative GPA must be 2.0 or higher
At least 40 units must be upper-division (300-400 level) coursework. (Note:
Completion of the major and 9 required units of upper division GE usually
fulfills this requirement, if O-Chem is taken at CSUF. If O-Chem is taken at a
community college, additional units may be required to reach the 40 unit upper-
division coursework requirement).
Complete at least 30 units in “residence” at CSUF
o At least 24 of the 30 units must be upper division
o At least 12 of the 24 upper division units must be in your major
General education requirements (at least 48 GE units) including:
o At least 9 units of upper division GE (300-400 level courses): B5, C3, D3
o At least 3 units of Cultural Diversity (Z) coursework (Take a GE area C, D,
or E course that double-counts for Z)
o 3 units in Area F
o An American Government course is required for student with catalog year
2021 and beyond
Satisfy the University upper-division writing requirement (ENGL 301, ENGL
363, or 3 units of BIOL 498), minimum grade of C
Satisfy the American Government Graduation requirement (POSC 100 or
HONR 201B)
Special unit totals: No more than...
o ... 70 units from a community college
o ... 90 units from a 4-year university
o ... 30 units from credit by examination
o ... 36 “credit/no credit” units
o ... 24 units taken through Extended Education
o ... 6 units of internship (495 courses in any department)
o ... 9 units from independent study courses
o ... 3 units from tutorial courses
Apply for a graduation (i.e., grad check) one year (two semesters) before
graduation, but only AFTER completing all lower-division (100-200 level)
Biology Core courses AND declaring your concentration. The Biology department
will then review your requirements for graduation.
o Log into your student portal, click on “student home page”, then click on
“academic records”. Click and view the “Academic Records” tile. View
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revised June 28, 2023
“Undergraduate Program” and choose “Apply for Graduation”; select the term
that you believe you will be completing your degree. “Apply for Graduation”
allows the Biol department to begin the grad check review of your TDA (you
may pay the fee later, up to the CSUF graduation fee deadline). You can change
your graduation date by contacting your Graduation Specialist.
o Be careful to choose the correct anticipated graduation term; choosing an
incorrect term can have negative consequences on advising, enrollment, and
financial aid. If you are unsure about what is a realistic graduation date, discuss
with your adviser or the CNSM Graduation Specialist (see last page of this
Handbook) before applying for graduation.
o To advance to “Candidate” status, your grad check must be approved by the
Biology Department, and you must pay a $115 graduation fee to CSUF.
Complete information about the graduation check process for undergraduates is
available at http://records.fullerton.edu/academics/graduation.php
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revised June 28, 2023
from http://www.fullerton.edu/aac
What is my catalog
year and why is it
important?
The CSU and CSUF occasionally modify graduation requirements. If you have been in
continuous attendance, you may choose to meet the CSUF campus graduation
requirements in the CSUF catalog that was in effect in any of the three following instances:
1. at the time you began continuous attendance at CSUF, OR if you are an upper
division transfer student, at the time you began continuous attendance at the
California Community College,
2. at the time you transferred to the CSU campus, or
3. at the time you graduate from the CSU campus.
By maintaining continuous attendance and selecting option (1) or (2), you can be assured
that your CSU campus graduation requirements will not change. Your right to choose one of
these options is called “catalog rights.”
http://catalog.fullerton.edu/content.php?catoid=16&navoid=1871&hl=policies&returnto=search
May I choose a
catalog year other
than what I was
assigned when I first
enrolled here?
Yes, as long as it aligns with one of the three circumstances listed above. Normally, it is in
your best interest to commit to the catalog year, that is, the General Education, major and
minor requirements, that were in effect when you first enrolled at CSUF or when you first
began uninterrupted enrollment at a community college on your pathway to junior
transfer to CSUF. This is because that is the catalog that holds the requirements that you
anticipated at the time that you prepared to apply for admission.
Your catalog year’s requirements come as a package. For example, you may not elect to
fulfill the major requirements of one year’s catalog, and the General Education
requirements of a different year.
How will I know
which catalog
year suits my
needs the best?
You may run a “what if” inquiry on your Titan Degree Audit (TDA) under a different catalog year.
Your TDA displays your official catalog year of record at the top of the first page when you log in:
Visit your retention specialist, graduation specialist or major advisor to discuss your options if you
have further questions. Find these individuals through your Student Success Center, listed at
success.fullerton.edu, click on “Student Success Teams.”
Remember to seek major advising in your college, and General Education advising in the Academic
Advisement Center, UH-123. (Exception: MCBE students may seek GE advising in their college.)
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revised June 28, 2023
PLANNING YOUR COURSEWORK
Many CSUF students work and/or have family commitments, long drives to CSUF and back, as
well as other important obligations that take up their time. To be successful as a biology major,
we recommend the following based on a 60-hour work week (school + commitments) and the
need to study 25 – 35 h per week. Keep in mind that lecture classes generally meet for 3 h per
week and labs meet for 3-6 h per week (3 hours per unit of lab; Biology core class labs meet for
3 h per week, and some upper division Biology courses have labs that meet for 6 h per week).
Every week, you should create time in your schedule to allow you to study 3 h for every unit of
lecture and 2 h for every unit of lab. Demands on your time will vary over the semester. Time
management is a critical skill for success.
Hours for Work/Family/Commuting per week
Maximum Number of Units Per Semester
0 – 9
14 - 16
10 – 19
13 – 14
20 – 29
9 – 12
30 – 39
6 – 9
PLANNING TIME TO GRADUATION
→ Since 120 units are required for a Bachelor’s degree…
If You Complete: You Will Graduate In:
30 units per year ..................................................................................................................... 4 years
24 units per year ..................................................................................................................... 5 years
20 units per year ..................................................................................................................... 6 years
To reach your goal for graduation, you’ll need to balance your time, your course load, and make
a plan indicating how you will fulfill all of your degree requirements. When making this plan,
consider how much you need to work, how much time you need to be successful in your courses
(for most students, this means getting A’s and B’s; not C’s), and the consequences of how you
arrange your schedule (i.e., it is generally not a good idea to take Calculus, Chemistry, Physics,
Biology, and History in a single semester).
TO BE A SUCCESSFUL TITAN
STUDY 25 - 35
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BIOLOGY CORE AND SUPPORTING COURSES WORKSHEET
(This version applies to Catalog Year Fall 2018 and later)
Required Biology Core Courses must be passed with a C or better:
Course
Title (units)
When passed
Grade
BIOL 151
Cellular and Molecular Biology (4)
BIOL 152
Evolution and Organismal Biology (4)
BIOL 251 and BIOL 253L
Genetics (3) and Cell/Molecular Skills Lab (1)
BIOL 252 and BIOL 254L
Principles of Ecology (3) and Research Skills for
Ecology/Organismal Biology (1)
BIOL 325
Principles of Evolution (3)
→After completion of the 19 units of Biology Core Courses, 21 units (6 units must be lab/field) of
Upper Division Biology electives in a concentration of your choice must be taken to reach a total of
40 units of Biology courses.
Required Supporting Courses must be passed with a C or better (34 units):
Course
Title (units)
When passed
Grade
MATH 130 and MATH 338 OR
Calculus (4) and Statistics (4)
MATH 150A and MATH 150B
Calculus (4) and Calculus (4)
CHEM 120A
General Chemistry (5)
CHEM 120B
General Chemistry (5)
CHEM 301A
Organic Chemistry (3)
CHEM 301B
Organic Chemistry (3)
CHEM 306A
Organic Chemistry Lab (2)
PHYS 211
Elementary Physics (3)
PHYS 211L
Elementary Physics Lab (1)
PHYS 212
Elementary Physics (3)
PHYS 212L
Elementary Physics Lab (1)
Required University Upper-Division Writing (Must pass with a C or better)
ENGL 301* Advanced College Writing (3) OR ENGL 363* Scientific Writing (3) OR
3 units BIOL 498
Course Prerequisites (co-requisites noted in parenthesis)
BIOL 151 none
BIOL 152 BIOL 151
BIOL 251 BIOL 151 and BIOL 152 and CHEM 120A or MATH 130 or MATH 150A
BIOL 253L BIOL 251 (co-req)
BIOL 252 BIOL 151 and BIOL 152 and CHEM 120A or MATH 130 or MATH 150A
BIOL 254L BIOL 252 (co-req)
BIOL 325 BIOL 251/253L and BIOL 252/254L
MATH 130/150A passing score on ALEKS, MQE, or exemption
MATH 150B MATH 150A
MATH 338 MATH 130 or MATH 150B or consent of instructor
CHEM 120A Passing score on CPE or CHEM 115
CHEM 120B CHEM 120A
CHEM 301A CHEM 120A and 120B
CHEM 301B CHEM 301A
CHEM 306A CHEM 120B; CHEM 301A (co-req)
PHYS 211 MATH 125 or MATH 130 or 150A; PHYS 211L (co-req)
PHYS 211L PHYS 211 (co-req)
PHYS 212 PHYS 211; PHYS 212L (co-req)
PHYS 212L PHYS 212 (co-req)
* Students interested in health professions careers should take ENGL 301 or ENGL 363.
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revised June 28, 2023
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
CATALOG YEAR FALL 2023
CONCENTRATION IN CELL & DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
:
TERM 1
TERM 2
TERM 3
TERM 4
TERM 5
TERM 6
TERM 7
TERM 8
BIOL 151
(GE B2 and
B3)
4 units
BIOL 152
4 units
BIOL 251
3 units
BIOL 252
3 units
BIOL 303
3 units
BIOL 325
3 units
Upper Division
Biology Elective
3-4 units
Biology
Capstone
2-3 units
CNSM 101
(GE A3)
3 units
BIOL 253L
1 unit
BIOL 254L
1 unit
BIOL 302
5 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3 units
Upper Division
Biology Elective
3-4 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective(s)
to complete
required units
MATH 130 or
MATH 150B*
(GE B4)
4 units
CHEM 120A
(GE B1)
5 units
CHEM 120B
5 units
CHEM 301A
3 units
CHEM 301B
3 units
MATH 338
(GE B5)
4 units
PHYS 212
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE D1**
3 units
CHEM 306A
2 units
Upper Division
writing
ENGL 301 or
363
3 units
PHYS 211
3 units
PHYS 212L
1 unit
GE C1 or C2**
3 units
GE C1 or
C2**
3 units
GE D2
3 units
GE F
3 units
PHYS 211L
1 unit
Upper Division
GE C3**
3 units
Upper Division
GE D3**
3 units
American
Government
3 units
GE E**
3 units
Electives
to complete
120 units
17 units
15 units
15 units
15 units
14 units
17 units
13-15 units
12-14 units
* only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A
** One GE course in C, D, or E must double-count as GE Z
27
GE lower division
6
GE upper division
40
Biology Required Courses
34
Biology Supporting Courses (includes 3 units GE upper division)
3
Writing Requirement: Upper division
3
Graduation Requirement: American Government
7
Electives
120
TOTAL UNITS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
1. Attend Biology major advising each semester to plan and review your academic progress.
2. Visit your College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Student Success Team in MH 488 to review GE and graduation
requirements.
3. All Biology and Supporting Courses (CHEM, MATH, PHYS) must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
4. Complete GE courses in areas A1, A2, and A3 with a C- or better. Complete a total of 17 units in GE area B with a C or
higher since these are part of the major. To fulfill GE area Z, one course from GE area C, D, or E must double-count as GE
area Z. Check your Titan Degree Audit for courses that appear in both categories. Complete GE area F with a C- or better.
5. Declare your concentration during the semester you are taking your last lower-division Biol Core course.
6. Apply for Graduation through your Student Center at the start of Term 7.
7
revised June 28, 2023
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Cell and Developmental Biology Concentration
The Biology Major is for students who are preparing to (1) enter
biology graduate and health professional schools, (2) seek biology-
related careers in industry or government agencies, or (3) teach in
secondary school.
BIOLOGY CORE AND SUPPORTING COURSES
Complete the courses listed below:
Course
Course Title
BIOL 151
Cellular & Molecular Biology (GE B2 and B3)
BIOL 152
Evolution & Organismal Biology
BIOL 251
Genetics
BIOL 252
Principles of Ecology
BIOL 253L
Cell & Molecular Biology Skills Laboratory
BIOL 254L
Research Skills for Ecology and Organismal
Biology
BIOL 325
Principles of Evolution
CHEM 120A
General Chemistry (GE B1)
CHEM 120B
General Chemistry
CHEM 301A
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 301B
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 306A
Organic Chemistry Laboratory
MATH 130 or
150A+150B*
A Short Course in Calculus/ Calculus (GE B4)
MATH 338
Statistics Applied to Natural Sciences (GE B5)
PHYS 211
Elementary Physics
PHYS 211L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
PHYS 212
Elementary Physics
PHYS 212L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
*only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A, then take MATH 150B
Cell & Developmental Concentration Requirements (15 units
total) Units are shown as total units / lab-field units, e.g. (4/2)
Cell and Developmental Biology Required Courses (8 units)
BIOL 302
General Microbiology (5/2)
BIOL 303
Intermediate Cell Biology (3)
Cell and Developmental Biology Elective Courses (5 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 329
Essential Tech.
Cell Biol. (3/2)
BIOL 429
Tech. Stem Cell
Biol. (3/2)
BIOL 362
Mammalian
Physiology
(4/1)
BIOL 431
Adv. Microbiol.
Lab (3/2)
BIOL 405
Developmental
Biology (3)
BIOL 438
Pub. Health
Microbiol. (4/2)
BIOL 410
Evolutionary
Genetics (4/2)
BIOL 445
Plant Cell
Physiology (3)
BIOL 417
Adv. Cell
Biology (3)
BIOL 454L
Microscopy
Imaging Biol.
(2/2)
BIOL
418L
Adv. Cell
Biology Lab (2)
BIOL 462
General
Parasitology (4/2)
BIOL 424
Immunology
(5/2)
BIOL 465
Int. Biol. of Spider
Silk (3)
BIOL 427
Stem Cell
Biology (3)
BIOL 470
Cellular
Neurobiology (3)
BIOL 428
Biology of
Cancer (3)
BIOL 490T
Clinical
Microbiol. (3/2)
Cell and Developmental Biology Capstone Courses (2 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 400
Sem. in Biology
Education (3)
BIOL 465
Int. Biol. of Spider
Silk (3)
BIOL 424
Immunology
(5/2)
BIOL 470
Cellular
Neurobiology (3)
BIOL 427
Stem Cell
Biology (3)
BIOL 482
Capstone Studies
in Biology (2)
BIOL 428
Biology of
Cancer (3)
BIOL
490T
Clinical
Microbiol. (3/2)
BIOL 429
Tech. Stem Cell
Biol. (3/2)
BIOL 495
Internship (3/2)
BIOL 431
Adv Microbiol
Lab (3/2)
BIOL 498
Thesis (1-3)
BIOL 438
Pub. Health
Microbiol (4/2)
BIOL
499L
Independent Lab
Study (1-3)
BIOL 462
General
Parasitology
(4/2)
COURSES CAN COUNT AS ELECTIVES OR CAPSTONE, NOT BOTH
Physiology: One course in physiology is required. This can be taken as
part of the concentration electives (if allowed) or separately. (3 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 302
General
Microbiology
(5/2)
BIOL 445
Plant Cell
Physiology (3)
BIOL 362
General Human
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 468
Comp. Animal
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 444
Plant
Physiological
Ecology (4/2)
As part of their Biology Requirements students must complete:
• 6 units of 400-level biology courses
• 6 units of laboratory/field courses, 3 units of which must be
taken within the concentration
UNIVERSITY & GE REQUIREMENTS
Upper Division Writing Requirement
To meet the upper-division baccalaureate writing requirement, students must pass
with a “C” (2.0) or better ENGL 301, ENGL 363, or BIOL 498 (3 units).
Graduation requirement
Students must complete an American Government course: POSC 100 or HONR
201B.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Area A Core Competencies. Complete one course in each sub-area for a
total of 9 units. Area A1 and A2 must be completed during your first year;
one should be taken in the fall and one should be taken in the spring. You
should not take both A1 and A2 your first semester. Take CNSM 101 (GE
A3) during the fall semester of your first year.
A1
Oral Communication
A2
Written Communication
A3
Critical Thinking
Area B Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning. Fulfilled by
MAJOR/SUPPORTING COURSES. B5 includes 3 upper division units.
B1
Physical Science (CHEM 120A)
B2
Life Science (BIOL 151)
B3
Laboratory Experience (BIOL 151)
B4
Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning (MATH 130
or MATH 150A from AP credit)
B5
Implications & Explorations NSM (MATH 338)
Area C Arts and Humanities. Complete one course each in C1 and C2
and one upper division course from C3.
C1
Introduction to the Arts
C2**
Introduction to the Humanities
C3**
Explorations in the Arts or Humanities
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revised June 28, 2023
D1**
Introduction to the Social Sciences
D2
American History, Institutions, and Values
D3**
Explorations in the Social Sciences
Area D Social Sciences. Complete one course each in D1 and D2 and one
upper division course from D3.
• Area E** Lifelong Learning and Self Development. Complete one
course in this area.
Area F Ethnic Studies. Complete one course in this area.
**Area Z Cultural Diversity. One GE course from area C, D, or E must
double-count as area.
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revised June 1, 2022
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
CATALOG YEAR FALL 2023
CONCENTRATION IN ECOLOGY & EVOLUTIONARY
BIOLOGY
TERM 1
TERM 2
TERM 3
TERM 4
TERM 5
TERM 6
TERM 7
TERM 8
BIOL 151
(GE B2 and
B3)
4 units
BIOL 152
4 units
BIOL 252
3 units
BIOL 251
3 units
BIOL 325
3 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3-4 units
Upper Division
Biology Elective
3-4 units
Biology
Capstone
2-3 units
CNSM 101
(GE A3)
3 units
BIOL 254L
1 unit
BIOL 253L
1 unit
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3-4 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3 units
Upper Division
Biology Elective
3-4 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective(s)
to complete
required units
MATH 130 or
MATH 150B*
(GE B4)
4 units
CHEM 120A
(GE B1)
5 units
CHEM 120B
5 units
CHEM 301A
3 units
CHEM 301B
3 units
MATH 338
(GE B5)
4 units
PHYS 212
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE D1**
3 units
CHEM 306A
2 units
Upper Division
writing
ENGL 301 or
363
3 units
PHYS 211
3 units
PHYS 212L
1 unit
GE C1 or C2**
3 units
GE C1 or C2**
3 units
GE D2
3 units
GE F
3 units
GE E**
3 units
PHYS 211L
1 unit
Upper Division
GE C3**
3 units
Upper Division
GE D3**
3 units
American
Government
3 units
Electives
to complete
120 units
17 units
15 units
15 units
15 units
15-16 units
14-15 units
13-15 units
12-16 units
* only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A
** One GE course in C, D, or E must double-count as GE Z
27
GE lower division
6
GE upper division
40
Biology Required Courses
34
Biology Supporting Courses (includes 3 units GE upper division)
3
Writing Requirement: Upper division
3
Graduation Requirement: American Government
7
Electives
120
TOTAL UNITS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
1. Attend Biology major advising each semester to plan and review your academic progress.
2. Visit your College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Student Success Team in MH 488 to review GE and graduation
requirements.
3. All Biology and Supporting Courses (CHEM, MATH, PHYS) must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
4. Complete GE courses in areas A1, A2, and A3 with a C- or better. Complete a total of 17 units in GE area B with a C or
higher since these are part of the major. To fulfill GE area Z, one course from GE area C, D, or E must double-count as GE
area Z. Check your Titan Degree Audit for courses that appear in both categories. Complete GE area F with a C- or better.
5. Declare your concentration during the semester you are taking your last lower-division Biol Core course.
6. Apply for Graduation through your Student Center at the start of Term 7.
10
revised June 28, 2023
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Ecology & Evolutionary Biology Concentration
The Biology Major is for students who are preparing to (1) enter
biology graduate and health professional schools, (2) seek biology-
related careers in industry or government agencies, or (3) teach in
secondary school.
BIOLOGY CORE AND SUPPORTING COURSES
Complete the courses listed below:
Course
Course Title
BIOL 151
Cellular & Molecular Biology (GE B2 and B3)
BIOL 152
Evolution & Organismal Biology
BIOL 251
Genetics
BIOL 252
Principles of Ecology
BIOL 253L
Cell & Molecular Biology Skills Laboratory
BIOL 254L
Research Skills for Ecology and Organismal
Biology
BIOL 325
Principles of Evolution
CHEM 120A
General Chemistry (GE B1)
CHEM 120B
General Chemistry
CHEM 301A
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 301B
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 306A
Organic Chemistry Laboratory
MATH 130 or
150A+150B*
A Short Course in Calculus/ Calculus (GE B4)
MATH 338
Statistics Applied to Natural Sciences (GE B5)
PHYS 211
Elementary Physics
PHYS 211L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
PHYS 212
Elementary Physics
PHYS 212L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
*only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A, then take MATH 150B
EEB CONCENTRATION REQUIREMENTS (14 units total)
Units are shown as total units / lab-field units, e.g. (4/2)
EEB Organismal Biology Elective Courses (3-4 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 317
Field Marine
Biology
1
(4/2)
BIOL 461
Marine Invert.
Biology
1
(4/2)
BIOL 332
Biology of the
Vertebrates (3)
BIOL 475
Ichthyology
1
(4/2)
BIOL 340
Field Botany (3/2)
BIOL 476
Herpetology
(4/2)
BIOL 345
Plant Biology
(3/1)
BIOL 478
Mammalogy
(4/2)
BIOL 441
Plant Taxonomy
(4/2)
BIOL 479
Ornithology
(4/2)
BIOL 446
Marine
Phycology
1
(4/2)
EEB Ecology Elective Courses (3-4 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 301
Prob. Env. Biol.
(3/2)
BIOL 443
Plant Ecology
(4/2)
BIOL 419
and 419L
Marine Ecology
1
(3) and Marine
Ecology Lab
1
(1)
BIOL 449
Desert Ecology
(4/2)
BIOL 422
Coastal Ecology
1
(4/2)
BIOL 466
Behavioral
Ecology (3)
EEB Free Elective Courses (4-6 units) Any course listed below, or any
course listed as an organismal biology elective, an ecology elective, or an
EEB capstone course can be used to fulfill the 14 required units
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 361
Human Anatomy
(4/2)
BIOL 410
Evolutionary
Genetics (4/2)
BIOL 402
Comp. Lab
Molec.
Systematics (3/1)
BIOL 444
Plant Physiol.
Ecology (4/2)
BIOL 407
Genes and
Genomes (3)
BIOL 468
Comp. Animal
Physiology (4/1)
EEB Capstone Courses (2 units)
1
only one of these courses may be
counted towards the EEB concentration units
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 400
Sem. in Biology
Education (3)
BIOL 482
Capstone
Studies in
Biology (2)
BIOL 401
Biogeography (3)
BIOL 495
Internship (3/2)
BIOL 450
Conservation
Biology (3)
BIOL 498
Thesis (1-3)
BIOL 465
Int. Biology of
Spider Silk (3)
BIOL 499L
Independent Lab
Study (1-3)
BIOL 481
Adv. Evolution
and Ecology (3)
COURSES CAN COUNT AS ELECTIVES OR CAPSTONE, NOT BOTH
Physiology: One course in physiology is required. This can be taken as
part of the concentration electives (if allowed) or separately. (3 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 302
General
Microbiology
(5/2)
BIOL 445
Plant Cell
Physiology (3)
BIOL 362
General Human
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 468
Comp. Animal
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 444
Plant
Physiological
Ecology (4/2)
As part of their Biology Requirements students must complete:
• 6 units of 400-level biology courses
• 6 units of laboratory/field courses, 3 units of which must be
taken within the concentration
UNIVERSITY & GE REQUIREMENTS
Upper Division Writing Requirement
To meet the upper-division baccalaureate writing requirement, students must pass
with a “C” (2.0) or better ENGL 301, ENGL 363, or BIOL 498 (3 units).
Graduation requirement
Students must complete an American Government course: POSC 100 or HONR
201B.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Area A Core Competencies. Complete one course in each sub-area for a
total of 9 units. Area A1 and A2 must be completed during your first year;
one should be taken in the fall and one should be taken in the spring. You
should not take both A1 and A2 your first semester. Take CNSM 101 (GE
A3) during the fall semester of your first year.
A1
Oral Communication
A2
Written Communication
A3
Critical Thinking
Area B Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning. Fulfilled by
MAJOR/SUPPORTING COURSES. B5 includes 3 upper division units.
B1
Physical Science (CHEM 120A)
B2
Life Science (BIOL 151)
B3
Laboratory Experience (BIOL 151)
B4
Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning (MATH 130
or MATH 150A from AP credit)
B5
Implications & Explorations NSM (MATH 338)
Area C Arts and Humanities. Complete one course each in C1 and C2
and one upper division course from C3.
C1
Introduction to the Arts
C2**
Introduction to the Humanities
C3**
Explorations in the Arts or Humanities
Area D Social Sciences. Complete one course each in D1 and D2 and
one upper division course from D3.
D1**
Introduction to the Social Sciences
D2
American History, Institutions, and Values
D3**
Explorations in the Social Sciences
Area E** Lifelong Learning and Self Development. Complete one
course in this area.
Area F Ethnic Studies. Complete one course in this area.
**Area Z Cultural Diversity. One GE course from area C, D, or E must
double-count as area Z.
11
revised June 28, 2023
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
CATALOG YEAR FALL 2023
CONCENTRATION IN MARINE BIOLOGY
TERM 1
TERM 2
TERM 3
TERM 4
TERM 5
TERM 6
TERM 7
TERM 8
BIOL 151
(GE B2 and
B3)
4 units
BIOL 152
4 units
BIOL 252
3 units
BIOL 251
3 units
BIOL 325
3 units
BIOL 317
4 units
Upper Division
Biology Elective
3-4 units
Biology
Capstone
2-3 units
CNSM 101
(GE A3)
3 units
BIOL 254L
1 unit
BIOL 253L
1 unit
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3-4 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3 units
Upper Division
Biology Elective
3-4 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective(s)
to complete
required units
MATH 130 or
MATH 150B*
(GE B4)
4 units
CHEM 120A
(GE B1)
5 units
CHEM 120B
5 units
CHEM 301A
3 units
CHEM 301B
3 units
MATH 338
(GE B5)
4 units
PHYS 212
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE D1**
3 units
CHEM 306A
2 units
Upper Division
writing
ENGL 301 or
363
3 units
PHYS 211
3 units
PHYS 212L
1 unit
GE C1 or C2**
3 units
GE C1 or
C2**
3 units
GE D2
3 units
GE F
3 units
GE E**
3 units
PHYS 211L
1 unit
Upper Division
GE C3**
3 units
Upper Division
GE D3**
3 units
American
Government
3 units
Electives
to complete
120 units
17 units
15 units
15 units
15 units
15-16 units
15 units
13-15 units
12-15 units
* only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A
** One GE course in C, D, or E must double-count as GE Z
27
GE lower division
6
GE upper division
40
Biology Required Courses
34
Biology Supporting Courses (includes 3 units GE upper division)
3
Writing Requirement: Upper division
3
Graduation Requirement: American Government
7
Electives
120
TOTAL UNITS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
7. Attend Biology major advising each semester to plan and review your academic progress.
8. Visit your College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Student Success Team in MH 488 to review GE and graduation
requirements.
9. All Biology and Supporting Courses (CHEM, MATH, PHYS) must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
10. Complete GE courses in areas A1, A2, and A3 with a C- or better. Complete a total of 17 units in GE area B with a C or
higher since these are part of the major. To fulfill GE area Z, one course from GE area C, D, or E must double-count as GE
area Z. Check your Titan Degree Audit for courses that appear in both categories. Complete GE area F with a C- or better.
11. Declare your concentration during the semester you are taking your last lower-division Biol Core course.
12. Apply for Graduation through your Student Center at the start of Term 7.
12
revised June 28, 2023
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Marine Biology Concentration
The Biology Major is for students who are preparing to (1) enter
biology graduate and health professional schools, (2) seek biology-
related careers in industry or government agencies, or (3) teach in
secondary school.
BIOLOGY CORE AND SUPPORTING COURSES
Complete the courses listed below:
Course
Course Title
BIOL 151
Cellular & Molecular Biology (GE B2 and B3)
BIOL 152
Evolution & Organismal Biology
BIOL 251
Genetics
BIOL 252
Principles of Ecology
BIOL 253L
Cell & Molecular Biology Skills Laboratory
BIOL 254L
Research Skills for Ecology and Organismal
Biology
BIOL 325
Principles of Evolution
CHEM 120A
General Chemistry (GE B1)
CHEM 120B
General Chemistry
CHEM 301A
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 301B
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 306A
Organic Chemistry Laboratory
MATH 130 or
150A+150B*
A Short Course in Calculus/ Calculus (GE B4)
MATH 338
Statistics Applied to Natural Sciences (GE B5)
PHYS 211
Elementary Physics
PHYS 211L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
PHYS 212
Elementary Physics
PHYS 212L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
*only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A, then take MATH 150B
Marine Biology Concentration Requirements (14 units total)
Units are shown as total units / lab-field units, e.g. (4/2)
Marine Biology Required Course (4 units)
BIOL 317
Field Marine Biology (4/2)
Marine Biology Organismal Biology Courses (4 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 446
Marine Phycology
(4/2)
BIOL 475
Ichthyology
(4/2)
BIOL 461
Marine
Invertebrate
Biology (4/2)
Marine Biology Ecology Courses (4 units)
Course
Course Title
BIOL 419 &
BIOL 419L
Marine Ecology (3) &
Marine Ecology Lab (1)
BIOL 422
Coastal Ecology (4/2)
Marine Biology Capstone Courses (2 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 400
Sem. in Biology
Education (3)
BIOL 482
Capstone
Studies in
Biology (2)
BIOL 401
Biogeography (3)
BIOL 495
Internship (3/2)
BIOL 422
Coastal Ecology
(4/2)
BIOL 498
Thesis (1-3)
BIOL 450
Conservation
Biology (3)
BIOL 499L
Independent Lab
Study (1-3)
BIOL 481
Adv. in Evolution
and Ecology (3)
COURSES CAN COUNT AS ELECTIVES OR CAPSTONE, NOT BOTH
Physiology: One course in physiology is required. This can be taken as part of the
concentration electives (if allowed) or separately. (3 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 302
General
Microbiology
(5/2)
BIOL 445
Plant Cell
Physiology (3)
BIOL 362
General Human
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 468
Comp. Animal
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 444
Plant
Physiological
Ecology (4/2)
As part of their Biology Requirements students must complete:
• 6 units of 400-level biology courses
• 6 units of laboratory/field courses, 3 units of which must be
taken within the concentration
UNIVERSITY & GE REQUIREMENTS
Upper Division Writing Requirement
To meet the upper-division baccalaureate writing requirement, students must pass
with a “C” (2.0) or better ENGL 301, ENGL 363, or BIOL 498 (3 units).
Graduation requirement
Students must complete an American Government course: POSC 100 or HONR
201B.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Area A Core Competencies. Complete one course in each sub-area for a
total of 9 units. Area A1 and A2 must be completed during your first year;
one should be taken in the fall and one should be taken in the spring. You
should not take both A1 and A2 your first semester. Take CNSM 101 (GE
A3) during the fall semester of your first year.
A1
Oral Communication
A2
Written Communication
A3
Critical Thinking
Area B Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning. Fulfilled by
MAJOR/SUPPORTING COURSES. B5 includes 3 upper division units.
B1
Physical Science (CHEM 120A)
B2
Life Science (BIOL 151)
B3
Laboratory Experience (BIOL 151)
B4
Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning (MATH 130
or MATH 150A from AP credit)
B5
Implications & Explorations NSM (MATH 338)
Area C Arts and Humanities. Complete one course each in C1 and C2
and one upper division course from C3.
C1
Introduction to the Arts
C2**
Introduction to the Humanities
C3**
Explorations in the Arts or Humanities
Area D Social Sciences. Complete one course each in D1 and D2 and
one upper division course from D3.
D1**
Introduction to the Social Sciences
D2
American History, Institutions, and Values
D3**
Explorations in the Social Sciences
Area E** Lifelong Learning and Self Development. Complete one
course in this area.
Area F Ethnic Studies. Complete one course in this area.
**Area Z Cultural Diversity. One GE course from area C, D, or E must
double-count
13
14
revised June 28, 2023
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
CATALOG YEAR FALL 2023
CONCENTRATION IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY &
BIOTECHNOLOGY
TERM 1
TERM 2
TERM 3
TERM 4
TERM 5
TERM 6
TERM 7
TERM 8
BIOL 151
(GE B2 and
B3)
4 units
BIOL 152
4 units
BIOL 251
3 units
BIOL 252
3 units
BIOL 309
3 units
BIOL 325
3 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3-4 units
Biology
Capstone
2-3 units
CNSM 101
(GE A3)
3 units
BIOL 253L
1 unit
BIOL 254L
1 unit
BIOL 302
5 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3-4 units
Upper
Division
Biology
Elective(s)
to complete
required units
MATH 130 or
MATH 150B*
(GE B4)
4 units
CHEM 120A
(GE B1)
5 units
CHEM 120B
5 units
CHEM 301A
3 units
CHEM 301B
3 units
MATH 338
(GE B5)
4 units
PHYS 212
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE D1**
3 units
CHEM 306A
2 units
Upper Division
writing
ENGL 301 or
363
3 units
PHYS 211
3 units
PHYS 212L
1 unit
GE C1 or
C2**
3 units
GE C1 or
C2**
3 units
GE D2
3 units
GE F
3 units
PHYS 211L
1 unit
Upper Division
GE C3**
3 units
Upper
Division GE
D3**
3 units
American
Government
3 units
GE E**
3 units
Electives
to complete
120 units
17 units
15 units
15 units
15 units
14 units
17 units
13-15 units
12-14 units
* only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A
** One GE course in C, D, or E must double-count as GE Z
27
GE lower division
6
GE upper division
40
Biology Required Courses
34
Biology Supporting Courses (includes 3 units GE upper division)
3
Writing Requirement: Upper division
3
Graduation Requirement: American Government
7
Electives
120
TOTAL UNITS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF
SCIENCE
1. Attend Biology major advising each semester to plan and review your academic progress.
2. Visit your College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Student Success Team in MH 488 to review GE and
graduation requirements.
3. All Biology and Supporting Courses (CHEM, MATH, PHYS) must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
4. Complete GE courses in areas A1, A2, and A3 with a C- or better. Complete a total of 17 units in GE area B with a C
or higher since these are part of the major. To fulfill GE area Z, one course from GE area C, D, or E must double-count
as GE area Z. Check your Titan Degree Audit for courses that appear in both categories. Complete GE area F with a C-
or better.
5. Declare your concentration during the semester you are taking your last lower-division Biol Core course.
6. Apply for Graduation through your Student Center at the start of Term 7.
15
15
revised June 28, 2023
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Concentration
The Biology Major is for students who are preparing to (1) enter
biology graduate and health professional schools, (2) seek biology-
related careers in industry or government agencies, or (3) teach in
secondary school.
BIOLOGY CORE AND SUPPORTING COURSES
Complete the courses listed below:
Course
Course Title
BIOL 151
Cellular & Molecular Biology (GE B2 and B3)
BIOL 152
Evolution & Organismal Biology
BIOL 251
Genetics
BIOL 252
Principles of Ecology
BIOL 253L
Cell & Molecular Biology Skills Laboratory
BIOL 254L
Research Skills for Ecology and Organismal
Biology
BIOL 325
Principles of Evolution
CHEM 120A
General Chemistry (GE B1)
CHEM 120B
General Chemistry
CHEM 301A
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 301B
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 306A
Organic Chemistry Laboratory
MATH 130 or
150A+150B*
A Short Course in Calculus/ Calculus (GE B4)
MATH 338
Statistics Applied to Natural Sciences (GE B5)
PHYS 211
Elementary Physics
PHYS 211L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
PHYS 212
Elementary Physics
PHYS 212L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
*only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A, then take MATH 150B
Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Concentration Requirements
Units are shown as total units / lab-field units, e.g. (4/2)
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Required Courses (6-8 units)
BIOL 309
Intermediate Molecular Biology (3)
BIOL 302 OR
CHEM 421
General Microbiology (5/2) OR
Biological Chemistry (3)
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Elective Courses (6-7 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 402
Comp. Lab in
Mol. Systematics
(3/1)
BIOL 431
Advanced Micro
Lab (3/2)
BIOL 405
Developmental
Biology (3)
BIOL 438
Public Health
Microbiol (4/2)
BIOL 407
Genes &
Genomes (3)
BIOL 445
Plant Cell
Physiology (3)
BIOL 410
Evolutionary
Genetics (4/2)
BIOL 448
Plant Molecular
Biology (4/1)
BIOL 411
Medical Genetics
& Syst. Biology
(3)
BIOL 462
General
Parasitology (4/2)
BIOL 412
Principles Gene
Manipulation (3)
BIOL 472A
Adv. Biotech.
Lab (3/2)
BIOL 413
Adv. Molecular
Genetics (3)
BIOL 472B
Adv. Biotech.
Lab (3/2)
BIOL 414
Microbial
Genetics (3)
BIOL 473
Bioinformatics
(3/1)
BIOL 426
Molecular
Virology (3)
BIOL 490T
Clinical
Microbiol. (3/2)
BIOL 430
Advances in
Microbiology (3)
CHEM 421
Biological
Chemistry (3)
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Capstone Courses (2 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 400
Sem. In Biology
Education (3)
BIOL 472A
Adv. Biotech.
Lab (3/2)
BIOL 412
Principles Gene
Manipulation (3)
BIOL 472B
Adv. Biotech.
Lab (3/2)
BIOL 426
Molecular
Virology (3)
BIOL 482
Capstone
Studies in
Biology (2)
BIOL 429
Tech. Stem Cell
Biology (3/2)
BIOL 490T
Clinical
Microbiol. (3/2)
BIOL 430
Adv. Microbiol
(3)
BIOL 495
Internship (3/2)
BIOL 431
Adv.
Microbiology lab
(3/2)
BIOL 498
Thesis (1-3)
BIOL 438
Public Health
Microbiol (4/2)
BIOL 499L
Independent Lab
Study (1-3)
BIOL 462
General
Parasitology (4/2)
COURSES CAN COUNT AS ELECTIVES OR CAPSTONE, NOT BOTH
Physiology: One course in physiology is required. This can be taken as
part of the concentration electives (if allowed) or separately. (3 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 302
General
Microbiology
(5/2)
BIOL 445
Plant Cell
Physiology (3)
BIOL 362
General Human
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 468
Comp. Animal
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 444
Plant
Physiological
Ecology (4/2)
As part of their Biology Requirements students must complete:
• 6 units of 400-level biology courses
• 6 units of laboratory/field courses, 3 of which must be taken
within the concentration
UNIVERSITY & GE REQUIREMENTS
Upper Division Writing Requirement
To meet the upper-division baccalaureate writing requirement, students must pass
with a “C” (2.0) or better ENGL 301, ENGL 363, or BIOL 498 (3 units).
Graduation requirement
Students must complete an American Government course: POSC 100 or HONR
201B.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Area A Core Competencies. Complete one course in each sub-area for a
total of 9 units. Area A1 and A2 must be completed during your first year;
one should be taken in the fall and one should be taken in the spring. You
should not take both A1 and A2 your first semester. Take CNSM 101 (GE
A3) during the fall semester of your first year.
A1
Oral Communication
A2
Written Communication
A3
Critical Thinking
Area B Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning. Fulfilled by
MAJOR/SUPPORTING COURSES. B5 includes 3 upper division units.
B1
Physical Science (CHEM 120A)
B2
Life Science (BIOL 151)
B3
Laboratory Experience (BIOL 151)
B4
Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning (MATH 130
or MATH 150A from AP credit)
B5
Implications & Explorations NSM (MATH 338)
Area C Arts and Humanities. Complete one course each in C1 and C2
and one upper division course from C3.
C1
Introduction to the Arts
C2**
Introduction to the Humanities
C3**
Explorations in the Arts or Humanities
Area D Social Sciences. Complete one course each in D1 and D2 and
one upper division course from D3.
16
revised June 28, 2023
**Area Z Cultural Diversity. One GE course from area C, D, or E must
double-count as area Z.
• Area E** Lifelong Learning and Self Development. Complete one
course in this area.
• Area F Ethnic Studies. Complete one course in this area.
D1**
Introduction to the Social Sciences
D2
American History, Institutions, and Values
D3**
Explorations in the Social Sciences
17
revised June 28, 2023
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
CATALOG YEAR FALL 2023
CONCENTRATION IN PLANT BIOLOGY
TERM 1
TERM 2
TERM 3
TERM 4
TERM 5
TERM 6
TERM 7
TERM 8
BIOL 151
(GE B2 and
B3)
4 units
BIOL 152
4 units
BIOL 252
3 units
BIOL 251
3 units
BIOL 345
3 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3-4 units
Upper Division
Biology Elective
3-4 units
Biology
Capstone
2-3 units
CNSM 101
(GE A3)
3 units
BIOL 254L
1 unit
BIOL 253L
1 unit
BIOL 325
3 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective
3 units
Upper Division
Biology Elective
3-4 units
Upper Division
Biology
Elective(s)
to complete
required units
MATH 130 or
MATH 150B*
(GE B4)
4 units
CHEM 120A
(GE B1)
5 units
CHEM 120B
5 units
CHEM 301A
3 units
CHEM 301B
3 units
MATH 338
(GE B5)
4 units
PHYS 212
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE A1 or A2
3 units
GE D1**
3 units
CHEM 306A
2 units
Upper Division
writing
ENGL 301 or
363
3 units
PHYS 211
3 units
PHYS 212L
1 unit
GE C1 or C2**
3 units
GE C1 or
C2**
3 units
GE D2
3 units
GE F
3 units
GE E**
3 units
PHYS 211L
1 unit
Upper Division
GE C3**
3 units
Upper Division
GE D3**
3 units
American
Government
3 units
Electives
to complete
120 units
17 units
15 units
15 units
15 units
15 units
14-15 units
13-15 units
13-16 units
* only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A
** One GE course in C, D, or E must double-count as GE Z
27
GE lower division
6
GE upper division
40
Biology Required Courses
34
Biology Supporting Courses (includes 3 units GE upper division)
3
Writing Requirement: Upper division
3
Graduation Requirement: American Government
7
Electives
120
TOTAL UNITS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
1. Attend Biology major advising each semester to plan and review your academic progress.
2. Visit your College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Student Success Team in MH 488 to review GE and graduation
requirements.
3. All Biology and Supporting Courses (CHEM, MATH, PHYS) must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
4. Complete GE courses in areas A1, A2, and A3 with a C- or better. Complete a total of 17 units in GE area B with a C or
higher since these are part of the major. To fulfill GE area Z, one course from GE area C, D, or E must double-count as GE
area Z. Check your Titan Degree Audit for courses that appear in both categories. Complete GE area F with a C- or better.
5. Declare your concentration during the semester you are taking your last lower-division Biol Core course.
6. Apply for Graduation through your Student Center at the start of Term 7.
18
revised June 28, 2023
BIOLOGY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Plant Biology Concentration
The Biology Major is for students who are preparing to (1) enter
biology graduate and health professional schools, (2) seek biology-
related careers in industry or government agencies, or (3) teach in
secondary school.
BIOLOGY CORE AND SUPPORTING COURSES
Complete the courses listed below:
Course
Course Title
BIOL 151
Cellular & Molecular Biology (GE B2 and B3)
BIOL 152
Evolution & Organismal Biology
BIOL 251
Genetics
BIOL 252
Principles of Ecology
BIOL 253L
Cell & Molecular Biology Skills Laboratory
BIOL 254L
Research Skills for Ecology and Organismal
Biology
BIOL 325
Principles of Evolution
CHEM 120A
General Chemistry (GE B1)
CHEM 120B
General Chemistry
CHEM 301A
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 301B
Organic Chemistry
CHEM 306A
Organic Chemistry Laboratory
MATH 130 or
150A+150B*
A Short Course in Calculus/ Calculus (GE B4)
MATH 338
Statistics Applied to Natural Sciences (GE B5)
PHYS 211
Elementary Physics
PHYS 211L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
PHYS 212
Elementary Physics
PHYS 212L
Elementary Physics: Laboratory
*only if you have AP credit for MATH 150A, then take MATH 150B
Plant Biology Concentration Requirements (12 units total)
Units are shown as total units / lab-field units, e.g. (4/2)
Plant Biology Required Course (3 units)
BIOL 345
Plant Biology (3/1)
Plant Biology Elective Courses (7 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 340
Field Botany (3/2)
BIOL 446
Marine
Phycology (4/2)
BIOL 441
Plant Taxonomy
(4/2)
BIOL 448
Plant Molecular
Biology (4/1)
BIOL 443
Plant Ecology
(4/2)
BIOL 449
Desert Ecology
(4/2)
BIOL 444
Plant
Physiological
Ecology (4/2)
GEOG 313
Natural
Vegetation (3)
BIOL 445
Plant Cell
Physiology (3)
Plant Biology Capstone Courses (at least 2 units)
Course
Course Title
BIOL 450
Conservation Biology (3)
BIOL 482
Capstone Studies in Biology (2)
BIOL 495
Internship (3/2)
BIOL 498
Thesis (1-3)
BIOL 499L
Independent Lab Study (1-3)
Physiology: One course in physiology is required. This can be taken as
part of the concentration electives (if allowed) or separately. (3 units)
Course
Course Title
Course
Course Title
BIOL 302
General
Microbiology
(5/2)
BIOL 445
Plant Cell
Physiology (3)
BIOL 362
General Human
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 468
Comp. Animal
Physiology (4/1)
BIOL 444
Plant
Physiological
Ecology (4/2)
As part of their Biology Requirements students must complete:
• 6 units of 400-level biology courses
• 6 units of laboratory courses, 3 units of which must be taken
within the concentration.
UNIVERSITY & GE REQUIREMENTS
Upper Division Writing Requirement
To meet the upper-division baccalaureate writing requirement, students must pass
with a “C” (2.0) or better ENGL 301, ENGL 363, or BIOL 498 (3 units).
Graduation requirement
Students must complete an American Government course: POSC 100 or HONR
201B.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Area A Core Competencies. Complete one course in each sub-area for a
total of 9 units. Area A1 and A2 must be completed during your first year;
one should be taken in the fall and one should be taken in the spring. You
should not take both A1 and A2 your first semester. Take CNSM 101 (GE
A3) during the fall semester of your first year.
A1
Oral Communication
A2
Written Communication
A3
Critical Thinking
Area B Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning. Fulfilled by
MAJOR/SUPPORTING COURSES. B5 includes 3 upper division units.
B1
Physical Science (CHEM 120A)
B2
Life Science (BIOL 151)
B3
Laboratory Experience (BIOL 151)
B4
Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning (MATH 130
or MATH 150A from AP credit)
B5
Implications & Explorations NSM (MATH 338)
Area C Arts and Humanities. Complete one course each in C1 and C2
and one upper division course from C3.
C1
Introduction to the Arts
C2**
Introduction to the Humanities
C3**
Explorations in the Arts or Humanities
Area D Social Sciences. Complete one course each in D1 and D2 and
one upper division course from D3.
D1**
Introduction to the Social Sciences
D2
American History, Institutions, and Values
D3**
Explorations in the Social Sciences
Area E** Lifelong Learning and Self Development. Complete one
course in this area.
Area F Ethnic Studies. Complete one course in this area.
**Area Z Cultural Diversity. One GE course from area C, D, or E must
double-count as area Z.
COURSES CAN COUNT AS ELECTIVES OR CAPSTONE, NOT BOTH
19
revised June 28, 2023
UPPER DIVISION (300-400 Level) BIOLOGY MAJORS ELECTIVES
BIOL
Course name
Units
Offered
Prerequisites
301
Problems in Environmental Biology
3/2
SU
SCERP scholars only
302
General Microbiology
5/2
F, S
BIOL 251/253L, 252/254L, and CHEM 120B
303
Intermediate Cell Biology
3
F, S, SU
BIOL 251/253L, 252/254L, and CHEM 120B
309
Intermediate Molecular Biology
3
F, S, SU
BIOL 251/253L, 252/254L, and CHEM 120B
317
Field Marine Biology
4/2
S
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
329
Essential Techniques in Cell Biology
3/2
SU
BSCR scholars only; BIOL 302; and BIOL 303 or
309
332
Biology of the Vertebrates
3
F / O
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
340
Field Botany
3/2
S / E
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
345
Plant Biology
3/1
F
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
361
Human Anatomy
4/2
F, S
BIOL 251/253L, 252/254L, and CHEM 120B
362
General Human Physiology
4/1
F, S
BIOL 251/253L, 252/254L, and CHEM 120B
398
Scientific Communication Workshop
1
F, S
BIOL 299L or BIOL 499L, junior or senior
standing
400
Seminar in Biology Education
3
F
BIOL 302, 303, 309, or 325
401
Biogeography
3
F / E
BIOL 325
402
Computer Lab in Molecular Systematics
3/1
F / O
BIOL 303, 309, or 325
405
Developmental Biology
3
S
BIOL 303 or 309
407
Genes & Genomes
3
S / E
BIOL 303, 309, or 325
410
Evolutionary Genetics
4/2
F
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
411
Medical Genetics
3
SU
BIOL 302 or 309, or CHEM 421 or 423A
412
Principles of Gene Manipulation
3
F
BIOL 309 and CHEM 301B; or CHEM 423A
413
Advances in Molecular Genetics
3
S
BIOL 309 and CHEM 301B; or CHEM 423A
414
Microbial Genetics
3
W
BIOL 302 or 309, or CHEM 421 or 423A
417
Advances in Cell Biology
3
F, S
BIOL 303
418L
Advances in Cell Biology Lab
2/2
BIOL 303
419
Marine Ecology
3
F / O
BIOL 325
419L
Marine Ecology Lab
1/1
F / O
Corequisite: BIOL 419
422
Coastal Ecology
4/2
F / E
BIOL 325
424
Immunology
5/2
S
BIOL 302; and BIOL 303 or 309
426
Molecular Virology
3
S
BIOL 302, 303, or 309, or CHEM 421
427
Stem Cell Biology
3
F, S
BIOL 303 or 309. BIOL 405 or 424 recommended
428
Biology of Cancer
3
F, SU
BIOL 303, 309, or 325. BIOL 424 recommended
429
Techniques in Stem Cell Biology
3/2
F
BIOL 302; and BIOL 303 or 309
430
Advances in Microbiology
3
F, S
BIOL 302
431
Advanced Microbiology Lab
3/2
F
BIOL 302
438
Public Health Microbiology
4/2
F, S
BIOL 302
441
Plant Taxonomy
4/2
S / O
BIOL 325, 340, 344, or 345
443
Plant Ecology
4/2
S / E
BIOL 325, or 345
444
Plant Physiological Ecology
4/2
S / O
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
445
Plant Cell Physiology
3
F / E
BIOL 302, 309, 325, 345, or CHEM 421 or 423A
446
Marine Phycology
4/2
F / O
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
448
Plant Molecular Biology
4/1
P
BIOL 302, 303, 309, or 345, or CHEM 421 or
423A
(Continued next page)
KEY Units listed are shown as “total number of units for the course/lab units in the course”. Offered lists when the course is
usually offered: F = Fall; S = Spring; SU = Summer; W = Winter; E = Even years; O = Odd years; P = Periodic.
*A combined total of 6 units from all of these classes may be applied to the upper division Biology units required for the major;
** Maximum of 3 units (total) may be applied to Biology major requirements; # See Mathematics, Anthropology, or Chemistry
Schedules
20
revised June 28, 2023
BIOL
Course name
Units
Offered
Prerequisites
449
Desert Ecology
4/2
S / O
BIOL 325
450
Conservation Biology
3
S
BIOL 325
454L
Microscopy and Imaging in Biology
2/2
S
BIOL 302, 303, 309 or 325
461
Marine Invertebrate Biology
4/2
F / E
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
462
General Parasitology
4/2
F
BIOL 302
465
Integrative Biology of Spider Silk
3
S / O
BIOL 303, 309, or 325
466
Behavioral Ecology
3
F / O
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
468
Comparative Animal Physiology
4/1
S / E
BIOL 251/253L, 252/254L, and CHEM 120B
470
Cellular Neurobiology
3
P
BIOL 362; and BIOL 303 or 309
472A
Advances in Biotechnology Laboratory
(CHEM 472A)
3/2
F
BIOL 302; and BIOL 309, CHEM 421, or
CHEM 423A; Coreq: BIOL 412
472B
Advances in Biotechnology Laboratory
(CHEM 472B)
3/2
S #
CHEM 421 or 423A, and consent of instructor
473
Bioinformatics (CHEM 473)
3/1
S
BIOL 309, 303, or 325, or CHEM 423A
475
Ichthyology
4/2
S / O
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
476
Herpetology
4/2
S / E
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
478
Mammalogy
4/2
F / E
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
479
Ornithology
4/2
S / O
BIOL 251/253L and 252/254L
480*
Advanced Topics in Undergrad Biology
1-3
F, S
Consent of instructor
480C*
Stem Cell Proseminar
2
F
BSCR Scholars only; BIOL 329
480D*
Colloquium: Diverse Topics in Biology
1
F, S
Pre- or Co-requisite: a 300-400-level Biology
course
480P*
COMPASS Proseminar
1
F, S
COMPASS Scholars only
480U*
Undergraduate Research Student
Enhancement Proseminar
1
F, S
U-RISE Scholars only
481
Advances in Evolution & Ecology
3
S / E
BIOL 325
482*
Capstone Studies in Biology (Study
Abroad)
2/2
W
Consent of instructor; 90 units completed
490T
Clinical Microbiology (Study Abroad)
3/2
W
Consent of instructor
495
Biological Internship
3/2
F, S, SU
90 units completed including BIOL 302, 303,
309, 317, 325, or 345
498*
Senior Thesis
1-3
F, S
Consent of instructor. Co-req: BIOL 499L
499L*
Independent Laboratory Study
1-3
F, S
Consent of instructor; junior or senior standing
CHEM
421**
Biological Chemistry (for Biology majors)
3
F, S #
CHEM 301B
CHEM
423A**
General Biochemistry (for Biochemistry
majors)
3
F, S #
CHEM 301B. Corequisite: CHEM 315
KEY Units listed are shown as “total number of units for the course/lab units in the course”. Offered lists when the course is
usually offered: F = Fall; S = Spring; SU = Summer; W = Winter; E = Even years; O = Odd years; P = Periodic.
* A combined total of 6 units from all of these classes may be applied to the upper division Biology units required for the major;
see your TDA. ** Maximum of 3 units (total) may be applied to Biology major requirements; # See Mathematics, Anthropology,
or Chemistry Schedules
NON-MAJORS COURSES. If you are a Biology Major, DO NOT take the following courses! These DO NOT
count toward the major: BIOL 300 Environmental Biology and Sustainability; BIOL 305 Human Heredity and
Development, BIOL 306 Biology of Aging; BIOL 310 Human Physiology; BIOL 310L Human Physiology Lab;
BIOL 311 Nutrition and Disease (CHEM 311); BIOL 318 Wildlife Conservation; BIOL 319 Marine Biology; BIOL
322 Human Behavioral Ecology (ANTH 322); BIOL 327 Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine; BIOL 330
Sustainability Ecology American Indian Models; BIOL 352 Plants and Life; BIOL 360 Biology of Human Sexuality;
BIOL 453 Life Science Concepts; BIOL 496 Biology Tutorials.
21
revised June 28, 2023
CSUF Undergraduate Repeat Policy and Withdrawal Policy
Students can check their “Repeated” or “W” units at CSUF by choosing “Withdrawals/Repeats” in the
dropdown menu of their Student Center in Titan Online.
CSUF Repeat policy
• A student can repeat a maximum of 16 units at CSUF (for the entire CSUF record) with “Grade
forgiveness.” Grade forgiveness means that the GPA calculation is adjusted to remove the effect
of the initial grade, and the GPA will include only the repeated grade (but BOTH grades remain
listed on transcripts). Grade forgiveness is applied to the first 16 units that a student repeats at
CSUF.
• A student can repeat a maximum of 12 units at CSUF (from Fall 2009 onward) with “Grades
averaged.” Grades averaged means that the GPA calculation includes the grades of both the initial
attempt and the repeat of the class (and BOTH grades remain listed on transcripts).
• A single class may be taken a maximum of 3 times. (Does not apply to classes noted in the
University Catalog “may be repeated for credit.)
• The “Repeat policy” is applied automatically at the end of each term.
• Petitions to exceed the repeated unit limits can be filed at the Admissions and Records Office, but
are rarely granted. For example, petitions to repeat a course are denied if the equivalent course can
be taken at a community college. For the College of NSM, students must have a letter of support
from the Department Chair.
• Detailed FAQ on the CSUF repeat policy can be found by scrolling down to “REPEAT POLICY-
Undergraduate” and clicking on the “frequently asked questions” link at
http://records.fullerton.edu/academics/regulations.php
CSUF Withdrawal policy
• An undergraduate student can have a maximum of 18 “W” (Withdrawal) units at CSUF, from Fall
2009 onward.
o During the first 2 weeks of class, drop via Titan Online (no “W” on transcript); after 2 weeks, a
“Request for Withdrawal” form (from Admissions and Records) must be signed by instructor
and Department to withdraw with “W”.
o After 2 weeks and prior to the last 3 weeks of instruction, withdrawals with a “W” are possible
only for documented serious and compelling reasons. Requests to withdraw may be non-
medical or medical in nature. For more information go to:
http://records.fullerton.edu/services/withdrawal.php
o Petitions for Retroactive Withdrawals can only be filed for courses with WU (Withdrawal
Unauthorized), I (Incomplete), IC (Incomplete charged), and NC* (No Credit) grades.
• Detailed information on withdrawals can be found in the registration guide for the semester in
which you are enrolled on the Admissions and Records website
(http://records.fullerton.edu/registration/registration.php).
22
revised June 28, 2023
Academic Notice* and Disqualification
• Undergraduate students are placed on Academic Notice when their CSUF grade point average
(GPA) or Cumulative GPA (GPA for all college work attempted) falls below 2.0 (a “C” average).
• Biology majors on Academic Notice have a Hold placed by the College of Natural Sciences and
Math (CNSM) and must be advised by a member of the CNSM Student Success team (see below) to
release this hold. The CNSM Academic Notice hold is SEPARATE from the Biology department
advising hold.
• Undergraduates on Academic Notice are subject to disqualification if their CSUF or cumulative
GPA falls below the following levels:
Class Level
Units
GPA Level
Seniors
90 or more
1.95
Juniors
60 - 89
1.85
Sophomores
30 - 59
1.70
Freshmen
0 - 29
1.50
For example, if you are junior on Academic Notice (60-89 units) and your GPA falls below 1.85 at the end
of the semester, you will be dismissed from the university.
• Online resources for students on Academic Notice and disqualification:
o Academic Notice and Disqualification tutorials http://www.fullerton.edu/aac/
o GPA calculator to help you determine your GPA (before and after grade forgiveness)
http://www.fullerton.edu/aac/resources/gpa_calculator.php
• Tutoring and other campus resources are listed on the last page of this handbook.
• Students with an Academic Notice Hold from the College of NSM must meet with one of the
following members of the CNSM Student Success Team to release their hold:
Axis Avalos, Graduation Specialist Natalie Mir, College Advisor
657-278-2301 axaval[email protected] 657-278-8750 namir@fullerton.edu
- Junior/Senior Advising (> 60 units) - Freshmen, all continuing students
- Academic Notice, Academic Planning, GE, TDA - Academic Notice, Academic Planning, GE
- Graduation Candidates & Requirements TDA, Registration
Abraham Roldan, Retention Specialist Tanya Kim, Asst. Director Advising
657-278-7217 aroldan@fullerton.edu 657-278-3275 takim@fullerton.edu
- Freshmen, all continuing students -Freshmen, Transfer Students
- Academic Notice, Academic Planning, GE, TDA -Athletes, Fullerton Finish, Honors,
Vetrans
- Academic Notice, Academic Planning, GE
23
revised June 28, 2023
*Academic Notice was previously called Academic Probation
MINORS IN BIOLOGY
Biology Minor Requirements:
➢ All students must complete Biology 151 and 152
➢ We have two minors – Cell & Molecular Biology and Environmental Biology
➢ Students will complete a third CORE Biology course aligned with their chosen minor (i.e. either Biol
251/253L or Biol 252/254L)
➢ Students will complete three upper-division courses specific to their chosen minor (see below)
➢ Upper-division coursework should be chosen in consultation with the Biology Minor advisor and with
careful consideration of prerequisites
➢ NOTE: While CHEM 120A and 120B are not required for the minor, they are prerequisites for many upper
division BIOL courses
LOWER-DIVISION CORE Courses Required for All Students
Biol 151 – Cellular and Molecular Biology (4 units)
Biol 152 – Evolution and Organismal Biology (4 units)
Cell and Molecular Biology Minor
Total # of units required: 22 - 23 units
Lower-Division CORE Requirement (4 units)
Biol 251 – Genetics AND
Biol 253L Cell & Molec. Biol Skills Lab
Upper-Division Required Course (3 units)
Biol 303 – Intermediate Cell Biology (3 units) OR
Biol 309 – Intermediate Molecular Biology (3 units)
Upper-Division Electives:
Students should choose two courses. At least one must have a laboratory:
L
= lab course.
Biol 302 – General Microbiology (5)
L
Biol 362 – Mammalian Physiology (4)
L
Biol 402 – Computer Lab in Molecular Systematics (3)
L
Biol 405 – Developmental Biology (3)
Biol 410 – Evolutionary Genetics (4)
L
Biol 411 – Medical Genetics and Systems Biology (3)
Biol 412 – Principles of Gene Manipulation (3)
Biol 413 – Advances in Molecular Genetics (3)
Biol 414 – Microbial Genetics (3)
Biol 417 – Advances in Cell Biology (3)
Biol 424 – Immunology (5)
L
Biol 426 – Molecular Virology (3)
Biol 427 – Stem Cell Biology (3)
Biol 428 – Biology of Cancer (3)
Biol 430 – Advances in Microbiology (3)
Biol 431 – Advanced Microbiology Lab (3)
L
Biol 438 – Public Health Microbiology (4)
L
Biol 445 – Plant Cell Physiology (3)
Biol 448 – Plant Molecular Biology (4)
L
Biol 454L – Microscopy and Imaging in Biology (2)
L
Biol 462 – General Parasitology (4)
L
Biol 465 – Integrative Biology of Spider Silk (3)
Biol 470 – Cellular Neurobiology (3)
Biol 472A or B – Advances in Biotechnology Lab (3)
L
Biol 473 – Bioinformatics (3)
L
Biol 490T – Clinical Microbiology Study Abroad (3)
L
Chem 421 – Biological Chemistry (3) OR Chem 423A – General Biochemistry (3)
24
revised June 28, 2023
Environmental Biology Minor
Total # of units required: 21 - 22 units
Lower-Division CORE Requirement (4 units)
Biol 252 – Ecology AND
Biol 254L Research Skills for Ecology and Organismal Biology
Upper-Division Required Course (3 units)
Biol 325 – Principles of Evolution (3 units)
Upper-Division Electives
1
Students should choose two courses. At least one must have a laboratory:
L
= lab course.
Biol 317 – Field Marine Biology (4)
L
Biol 332 – Biology of the Vertebrates (3)
Biol 340 – Field Botany (3)
L
Biol 345 – Plant Biology (3)
L
Biol 401 – Biogeography (3)
Biol 410 – Evolutionary Genomics (4)
L
Biol 419/Biol 419L – Marine Ecology (3) and Lab (1)
L
Biol 422 – Coastal Ecology (4)
L
Biol 441 – Plant Taxonomy (4)
L
Biol 443 – Plant Ecology (4)
L
Biol 444 – Plant Physiological Ecology (4)
L
Biol 446 – Marine Phycology (4)
L
Biol 449 – Desert Ecology (4)
L
Biol 450 – Conservation Biology (3)
Biol 461 – Marine Invertebrate Biology (4)
L
Biol 465 – Integrative Biology of Spider Silk (3)
Biol 466 – Behavioral Ecology (3)
Biol 475 – Ichthyology (4)
L
Biol 476 – Herpetology (4)
L
Biol 478 – Mammalogy (4)
L
Biol 479 – Ornithology (4)
L
Biol 481 – Advances in Evolution and Ecology (3)
1
One Upper-Division Elective course can be chosen outside of Biology in consultation with the Biology Minor
Advisor.
Advisor Approval is REQUIRED to count one of the following courses for the Environmental Biology minor:
Chemistry Courses
Chem 436 – Atmospheric Chemistry (3)
Chem 437 – Environmental Water Chemistry (3)
Chem 438 – Environmental Biochemistry (3)
Chem 448 – Environmental Biochemistry (3)
Chem 313A and Chem 313B and Chem 313C – Environmental Pollution and Its Solutions (1 unit each)
Geography Courses
Geog 323 – Weather and Climate (3)
Geog 450 – Human Response to Environmental Hazards (3)
Geog 481 – Geographic Information Systems: Introduction (3)
Geology Courses
Geol 333 – General Oceanography (3)
Geol 335 – Hydrology and Surface Processes (3)
Geol 380 – Geologic Field Techniques (3)
Geol 201 – Earth History (3)
Other Outside Courses
Econ 362 – Environmental Economics (3)
Hesc 415 – Environmental Health
Phil 313 – Environmental Ethics (3)
25
revised June 28, 2023
MINORS ASSOCIATED WITH BIOLOGY
Interested in Chemistry and Biochemistry? Minor in Chemistry
A minor in Chemistry requires a minimum of 24 acceptable units of Chemistry, including General Chemistry
(CHEM 120A, B), Organic Chemistry (CHEM 301A, B), Quantitative Chemistry (CHEM 315), plus 5 units of
additional upper-division CHEM courses. Each course must be completed with a grade of “C”’ or better.
• For a Biology major, a typical path to the minor is: CHEM 120A/B (10), CHEM 301A/B (6), CHEM 306A
(2), CHEM 315 (3), and CHEM 421 (3).
A complete list of acceptable CHEM Upper Division Courses is found in the catalog http://catalog.fullerton.edu or
http://www.fullerton.edu/chemistry/programs/undergraduate/minors_chemistry.php
Interested in Forensics? Minor in Criminal Justice
The Minor in Criminal Justice (18 units) includes 9 units of required courses [Foundation of Criminal Justice (CRJU
300), Criminal Law: Substantive (CRJU 310A), and Theories of Crime and Delinquency (CRJU 330)] and 9 units of
CRJU electives. For more information, go to: http://catalog.fullerton.edu or contact the Division of Politics,
Administration, and Justice office (657) 278-3521 or GH-511.
Interested in Public Health? Minor in Public Health
The Public Health Minor (21 units) focuses on understanding and promoting health in diverse populations. Required
courses include Introduction to Environmental Health and Safety (PUBH 115) and Introduction to Public Health
(PUBH 201). For more information, go to: http://catalog.fullerton.edu or contact the PUBH Department office (657)
278-3316 or KHS-121.
Interested in working with the Elderly? Minor in Aging Studies
The growth of the older population has fueled demand for professionals that understand the aging process. Aging
Studies is a multi-disciplinary field that examines the aging process from multiple aspects. The Aging Studies Minor
(21 units) begins with the lower-division required course Introduction to Aging Studies (AGNG 133). For more
information, go to: http://catalog.fullerton.edu or contact the Aging Studies Program (657) 278-7057
[email protected] or Humanities building 424.
Interested in running a Biotech company? Minor in Business Administration
Biology majors that are also interested in business may sign up for a minor in Business Administration. A student
who completes this minor and meets all other entrance requirements will be poised to apply to the Master of Business
Administration (MBA) degree program and will then only need to take the second year (33 units) of coursework to
complete the MBA. For more information, see https://business.fullerton.edu/programs/undergraduate/Minors. To
sign up for the minor, see the Business Advising Center in SGMH-1201; phone (657) 278-2212.
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RESEARCH AND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES FOR BIOLOGY MAJORS
Research Courses
Undergraduate Research with Faculty (BIOL 299L, 499L). The Department offers undergraduate research
courses that provide opportunities to progress from closely directed research (BIOL 299L, usually performed at the
freshman or sophomore level) to more independent work (BIOL 499L, usually performed at the junior or senior
level). Student-faculty collaborations are created by mutual interest. The Faculty roster near the end of this handbook
briefly summarizes faculty research interests but you can also learn about individual faculty research interests on the
Biology web page and the abstracts posted outside of the Biology Department office. Limited funding is available
from the Department to support this student research.
Marine Biology Semester at Catalina. This semester-long program, offered through the California State University
Ocean Studies Institute (OSI) and the Southern California Marine Institute (SCMI), provides an intensive
undergraduate exposure to marine biology, and is designed for students with a serious commitment to environmental
and marine science. The program is based at the University of Southern California (USC) Wrigley Institute for
Environmental Studies, situated on Santa Catalina Island, 26 miles from Los Angeles, CA. http://www.scmi.net/csu-
marine-biology-catalina-semester/
Research Programs
BSCR. Bridges to Stem Cell Research Program (BSCR), funded by the California Institute for Regenerative
Medicine (CIRM) provides an excellent opportunity for students aspiring to incorporate stem cell biology into their
careers. Stem Cell Biology is one of the fastest growing areas in biomedicine and biotechnology. The BSCR
program requires a full-time commitment for 19 months (from June through the following December), which
includes 7 months of pre-internship training at CSUF during the summer and fall semester (required coursework and
research experience), followed by a 12-month full-time internship at a collaborating institution (Stanford University,
UC Irvine, or USC). Financial benefits during the 12-month internship are as follows: a tuition waiver up to
$3,500 for the spring and fall semesters and stipend of $3,000 per month for a total of $36,000 for the internship
year. Applications are due in early April. Information is available from the director, Dr. Nilay Patel (657) 278 2483.
http://biology.fullerton.edu/stemcells/
CREP. The Cancer Research Education is the educational component of the CSUF/UCI-CFCCC Cancer Health
Equity Research Partnership (CHERP), whose goal it is to increase the quality of cancer-related research and training
that address the diverse health needs of populations in Orange County and California.
COMPASS. Creating Opportunities through Mentorship and Partnership Across Stem Cell Science is an
undergraduate research and internship program funded through a grant from the California Institute of Regenerative
Medicine (CIRM). The aim of the program is to train a diverse cadre of undergraduates to enter the booming field of
regenerative medicine directly after earning their bachelor’s degree in biological science at CSUF. The two-year
training program includes coursework, research summer internships, and mentorship from faculty and recent alumni.
Financial support is provided to make these year-round activities possible for the students accepted into the program.
Contact Dr. Alison Miyamoto at [email protected] for more information.
LSAMP. The CSU Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation program is supported by the National
Science Foundation (NSF), the CSU Office of the Chancellor, and the 22 participating CSU campuses. The goal of
this program is to increase the number graduates in sciences, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) from among
students who have faced or face social, educational, or economic barriers to careers in STEM. CSU-LSAMP
Research Scholars have a research commitment (minimum of 8-10 hours per week) during the academic year and
can receive a research scholarship up to $4,000. http://lsamp.fullerton.edu/
McNair Scholars Program. The Ronald McNair Scholars Program is a year-round program open to full-time
students majoring in natural sciences, mathematics and engineering, and is designed to prepare students to pursue
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doctoral studies. Applicants must be members of a group underrepresented in graduate education and/or a first-
generation college student. Applicants must have completed at least 59 semester units and have a minimum GPA of
3.0. Applications are available at the beginning of the spring semester at McNair Scholars Office, GH-179 (657)
278-7315. http://www.fullerton.edu/mcnair/
MHRT. The Minority Health & Health Disparities Research Training program is a National Institutes of Health
(NIH) sponsored program that provides students belonging to underrepresented minorities or health disparities
groups with the opportunity to carry out research during the summer (ten weeks) at laboratories in the U.S. (Charles
Drew University, George Washington University, Florida International University), Thailand (Chiang Mai
University), or Argentina (Institute for Research on Retroviruses and AIDS), under the direction of world-renowned
biochemists and molecular biologists. Fact sheets are available from the director, Dr. Marcelo Tolmasky (657) 278-
5263. http://biology.fullerton.edu/people/faculty/marcelo-tolmasky/MHIRT%20website/index.html
NAARE Program. The NIH-funded Neurocognitive Aging & Analytics Research Education program is open to
full-time Biological Science majors. The NAARE program goals include teaching students about the human brain
aging and providing mentored-research experiences with a focus on brain aging and etiology of certain
neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. The program will also allow students
to explore, engage, and analyze population-based studies and data related to brain aging. All participants are expected
to undertake summer research experience at the University of Southern California. The program plans to recruit
students in the Fall semester. For more information, please visit the website (http://naare.fullerton.edu/) or email the
NAARE Coordinator at [email protected]
RCP. Research Careers Preparatory Program is a one-year program that provides freshman, sophomore/junior,
and transfer students the opportunity to explore research as a career through a specially designed pro-seminar course,
laboratory techniques class, and associated field or laboratory research activities. The main goals of the RCP program
are to: 1) raise student awareness of research opportunities at CSUF and elsewhere, 2) provide students with the skill
sets they need to be successful in a research career, and 3) move more CSUF graduates into research-based graduate
programs in the U.S., or into the workforce within Orange County and throughout California. Participants in the
program receive extensive academic and research mentoring through the three required courses, BIOL 280R, BIOL
280S, and BIOL 299L, CHEM 295/395, or PSYC 498. These courses will prepare and train students to be successful
in their majors as future scientists (B.S., M.S., Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D.) and more broadly as responsible citizens.
Participants will carry out undergraduate research with a faculty member in the Departments of Biological Science,
Chemistry/Biochemistry, or Psychology. Upon successful completion of the one-year program, students are awarded
a certificate of completion and are competitive applicants for research intensive two-year programs and other
research scholar programs. For more information, please visit the RCP website at: http://biology.fullerton.edu/rcp
SCERP. The Southern California Ecosystems Research Program (SCERP) at CSUF, is a research training
program for undergraduates focused on learning through discovery in environmental biology. This program strives to
attract primarily underrepresented students to environmental biology early in their academic careers, typically at the
end of the sophomore or junior year. Scholars participate in a summer field course followed by up to two years of
independent research with a faculty mentor. Scholars receive stipends (approximately $2,000). Information is
available from Dr. Bill Hoese, (657) 278-2476 or the Biology Dept. Office, (657) 278-3614.
http://biology.fullerton.edu/scerp/
U-RISE Program. The NIH-funded Undergraduate Research Training Initiative for Student
Enhancement program at Cal State Fullerton aims to recruit, retain, and prepare promising undergraduate students
to successfully pursue a career in Biomedical Science research. The program seeks applications from under-
represented (ethnicity, race, LGBTQ+) or economically-disadvantaged backgrounds, and those who are neurodiverse
or with physical disability. For more information, please visit the website (www.fullerton.edu/u-rise) or email the
program at urise@fullerton.edu
Scholarships and Research Funding
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STEER Scholarships. The CSUF Scholarships to Enhance Excellence in the Chemical and Biological
Research-Based Workforce Program recruits and supports students to become highly qualified members of the
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workforce. Students must have a minimum GPA of
2.75, have completed a FAFSA, and be eligible for financial aid. Students selected for the STEER program receive
annual stipends of $6,500 and may receive additional support to take classes in summer and/or intersession, so they
may devote full time to learning science and preparing to enter the biotechnological industry. STEER scholars
experience a support system that includes science faculty, peers, and CSUF Alumni.
http://www.fullerton.edu/biology/steer/
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and Cal State Fullerton Scholarships. A variety of scholarships –
nearly $2 million annually at Cal State Fullerton – are awarded for outstanding achievement. In addition to scholastic
achievement, financial need and other factors may be considered in the selection process. Many scholarships for
NSM use the standard University Scholarship and Award Application, and are usually due in early February. Full
details at http://www.fullerton.edu/financialaid/award/scholarships.php
Intramural Research Funding. In addition to funding by the Department, there are other avenues for research
support, including the ASI Research Grants, a student-operated committee that funds student research, and the
Faculty Development Center Research and Creativity Awards that foster faculty-student collaborative research. Both
require students to submit formal, competitive research proposals. For more information, students should ask their
research mentors about these opportunities.
General Education Information
Your GE requirements depend on your Catalog Year. Please go to
http://www.fullerton.edu/undergraduate/general_education/index.php for additional information about GE
requirements and a current list of approved GE courses. For questions about GEs, contact the CNSM
Student Success Center.
General Education provides breadth to your educational experience. Think about what other skills or
perspectives will enhance your ability to be successful in a future career as you choose your GE classes.
Alternatively, your GE courses can allow you to explore other interests or develop skills that will enrich
you at a more personal level. Use your GE courses as a balance to the science courses that make up your
major.
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Biological Internship (BIOL 495) Information
Biological Internship (BIOL 495) is one of the accepted capstone courses for all concentrations. The
course provides students with an opportunity to gain career experience in biology related fields, including
Health/Medical, Research, Environmental and Education. BIOL 495 provides students an opportunity to
develop professional documents (e.g., resumes and personal statements), to make realistic assessments of
career choices, and to familiarize students with preparations necessary for career success. The major goals
for Biological Internship are for students to develop professional skills, to gain first-hand experience in the
area of their planned careers, and to network with other professionals.
PREREQUISITES: Students should have senior standing with the successful completion of 90 units
(including all core requirements) and consent of instructor.
COURSE OVERVIEW AND REQUIREMENTS:
• Students must complete Ninety (90) hours of practical experience in the student’s chosen field of
interest. Internship hours must be completed within the semester of registration.
• Student interns are required to attend and participate in all weekly class meetings through the
semester, which may include class and group discussions, mock interviews and other in-class
activities.
• Students may be required to complete weekly writing assignments and journal entries.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
• Procure an Intern Position:
➢ Each student MUST arrange for their OWN internship with a cooperating office, laboratory
clinic, hospital, business, or agency.
➢ START EARLY! Internships must be registered and approved by the instructor on or before
the second week of the semester.
➢ Internships should be active positions whereby students participate in procedures, learn skills
and apply techniques (i.e. “shadowing” is not considered an active position).
➢ Internships may be a volunteer or paid position under the supervision of a professional within
the organization.
➢ An existing internship position must be approved by the instructor or Dr. Tommerup to count
for BIOL 495.
• Register Your Internship Site:
➢ Biological Internship Registration forms must be completed and approved by the instructor.
➢ Internship Sites must be registered with the Center for Internships and Community Engagement
(CICE). LH-209, 278-3746; www.fullerton.edu/cice
➢ For additional help or leads, contact the Career Center (LH-208, 278-3121;
www.fullerton.edu/career) or the Health Professions Advising Office (GH-223, 278-3980).
If you have any questions, please contact:
Dr. Megan Tommerup, Biology Internship Coordinator at [email protected]
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What can I do with my Bachelor’s Degree in Biology?
Career info from CSUF Biology
• http://www.fullerton.edu/biology/careers/index.php
Careers in biology (general listings)
• American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) http://www.aibs.org/careers/
• College Grad https://collegegrad.com/careers/life-physical-and-social-science
Careers in cell and molecular biology (if you are interested in the Cell and Development and
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology concentrations):
• Nature http://www.nature.com/scitable/ebooks/guide-to-life-science-careers-14053951
Careers in organismal, ecology, or marine biology (if you are interested in the Ecology and
Evolutionary Biology, Plant Biology, and Marine Biology concentrations):
• Ecological Society of America (ESA) http://www.esa.org/esa/careers-and-certification/explore-
ecology-as-a-career/
• The Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology (SICB) http://www.sicb.org/careers/
• The Wildlife Society (TWS) http://wildlife.org/career-development
Careers in teaching
• See the 'Teach Science -- Impact the Future' section of this handbook.
Careers in health care
• See the 'Health Professions as a Biology Major' section of this handbook.
Careers in scientific research
• See the 'Research and Other Opportunities for Biology Majors' section.
Interested in exploring other careers?
• Visit the CSUF Career Center http://www.fullerton.edu/career
• Chanda Ishisaka is the College Career Specialist for NSM: LH 208 (657)278-2020
cishisaka@fullerton.edu
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HEALTH PROFESSIONS AS A BIOLOGY MAJOR
The basic requirements for most Health Professions Programs (e.g. Pharmacy, Medicine, Dentistry,
Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Physical Therapy, and Physician Assistant programs) are a year of
biology with lab, a year of general chemistry with lab, a year of organic chemistry with lab, a semester of
statistics and a semester of calculus - all of which you will receive as a biology major at CSUF. There are
few upper-division required courses but often specific courses are recommended, and these can vary
depending on the field you'd like to go into and the schools to which you plan to apply. The best place for
you to get this information is to go to the Health Professions Advising Office (see below) on campus and
look at the information available for the schools you'd like to attend (see links below). Every
concentration in the Biology major can prepare you to go into a health profession. You should choose
your concentration based on what you are passionate about because that will help you to be motivated to
achieve the high level of academic performance needed to obtain entrance into a professional program (see
next page).
You can find more information about requirements, exams, etc. for various health professions at the:
CSUF Health Professions Advising Office: http://www.fullerton.edu/healthprofessions/
Association of American Medical Colleges: http://www.aamc.org
American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine: http://www.aacom.org
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy: http://www.aacp.org
Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry: https://optometriceducation.org/
American Dental Education Association: http://www.adea.org
Physician Assistant Education Association: http://www.paeaonline.org/
American Physical Therapy Association: http://www.apta.org/Default.aspx
Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges: http://www.aavmc.org/
Professional schools have specific course requirements and activities that students should be aware of. For
instance, basic science research, clinical work, and extra-curricular and community service are very
important in building a strong application. A health professions advisor will be able to point out appropriate
courses and activities and, in many cases, recommend specific programs that students should participate in.
Students may use the facilities of the Health Professions Advising Office as needed. Starting in their
sophomore year students should seek advising at least once a semester prior to registration. Meeting with a
health professions advisor does not take the place of mandatory advising through the Biological Science
Department.
Other services that the Health Professions Advising Office provides include helping students select
appropriate clinical career paths and the professional schools appropriate for their needs. An advisor will
make suggestions on how students might improve their applications and personal statements and provide
advice related to letters of recommendation and the interview process. When requested, mock interviews
can be arranged through the Career Development Center. The Health Professions Advising Office also
supervises on-campus clubs, such as the Student Health Professions Association. A complete listing of
Student Organizations affiliated with the Health Professions Office can be found on their website (link
below). In addition, the Health Professions Advising Office evaluates files prepared by students who
submit applications and, where appropriate, will prepare committee letters of support for qualified students.
The Health Professions Advising Office is in GH-223 (657-278-3980).
http://www.fullerton.edu/healthprofessions/
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CONSIDERING HEALTH PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL BUT INTERESTED
IN ECOLOGY, ORGANISMAL, OR MARINE BIOLOGY?
Odds are you will perform best in courses that you enjoy and are interested in. After finishing your 19 units
of Biol Core, you can choose a Concentration in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) or Marine
Biology (MB) and still take the courses you will need to do well on entrance exams (e.g., MCAT, DAT,
GRE) and apply to health professional schools. Both the EEB and MB Concentrations require 14 units;
free elective units for the BIOL major can be used to take BIOL 302 (Microbiology) or CHEM 421
(Biochemistry). BIOL 361 (Human Anatomy) is an EEB Free Elective course that can count toward the 14
required EEB units, and BIOL 362 (General Human Physiology) can be taken for the Physiology
requirement for the Biology major; these are upper-division courses that you may need to be prepared to
apply to professional programs (whether you need BIOL 302, BIOL 361, BIOL 362, or CHEM 421 will
depend upon the type of programs you are interested in; consult the Health Professions Office). Either
Concentration will also give you broad training in biology that will help you should you decide to change
your career path to teaching or another general biology field. Here's how to fulfill the requirements for each
concentration.
Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
(EEB)
Marine Biology (MB)
course
units
course
units
BIOL Core courses
19
BIOL Core courses
19
EEB Organismal Biology Elective
Course
3-4
BIOL 317
4/2
EEB Ecology Elective Course
3-4
MB Organismal Biology Course
4
EEB Capstone Course
2-3
MB Ecology Course
4
EEB Free Electives (BIOL 361
counts here)
To reach 14 EEB
units
MB Capstone Course
2-4
Physiology requirement (BIOL 362
or 302 counts here)
3-4
Physiology requirement (BIOL 362 or
302 counts here)
3-4
Free electives for BIOL major
(CHEM 421 counts here)
To reach 40
BIOL major
units
Free electives for BIOL major (BIOL
361 or CHEM 421 counts here)
To reach 40
BIOL major
units
When planning courses, remember that Biology majors must complete:
• 6 units of 400-level biology courses and
• 6 units of lab/field courses, 3 units of which must be taken within the concentration.
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Teach Science -- Impact the Future!
Steps to Earning a Teaching Credential in Science
STEP 1: Make an Appointment!
• Make an appointment with the Science Credential Preparation Advisor - Dr. Megan Tommerup
[email protected]
• Design an academic plan, discuss prerequisites for the Credential Program and explore resources to help you
prepare for a career in teaching.
• Additional advising is available at the Center for Careers in Teaching: http://ed.fullerton.edu/cct/
STEP 2: Work on your Biology Major Requisites
• Any of the Biology Concentrations provide support for demonstrating subject matter competence in the
fields of Biology and General Science appropriate for Middle and High School Science teaching (grades 7-
12).
STEP 3: Take Secondary Education (EDSC) Prerequisite coursework
• Coursework may be completed during your undergraduate education or as a post baccalaureate.
• Some courses may count as GE or electives.
• Prerequisite coursework includes:
– EDSC 310: The Teaching Experience – Participation
– EDSC 320: Adolescent Development
– EDSC 330: Developing Literacy in Secondary Schools
– EDSC 340: Diversity in Secondary Schools
STEP 4: Attend a Secondary Education Credential Program Overview
• Attend a Single Subject Credential Program overview http://ed.fullerton.edu/seced/
– Learn about the application process and specific requirements for the program
– Additional information about the Secondary Education Credential program
http://ed.fullerton.edu/seced/admissions/cred-seced.php
• Prepare Application Materials
– Demonstrate basic skills by passing the CBEST – http://www.ctcexams.nesinc.com
– Demonstrate subject matter competency by passing the appropriate California Subject Examination
(CSET) subtests - http://www.ctcexams.nesinc.com
– Additional application materials may include fingerprinting, CPR training and English Language
proficiency. See also http://ed.fullerton.edu/seced/admissions/cred-seced.php
STEP 5: Explore Resources for Teaching Candidates
• Example financial opportunities to support students while they are earning their credential:
– The Intern/Professional Track Program allows science teachers to earn their credential while
employed. http://ed.fullerton.edu/seced/sscphandbook/program-design/intern_program.php
• STEM Scholarships and Internships are available for undergraduates, including:
– The Math and Science Teacher Initiative (MSTI) scholarships program: http://ed.fullerton.edu/msti/
– Science Ambassadors Program http://ed.fullerton.edu/msti/resources/scholarships-stipends.php
– Promoting Resources in Informal Science Education (PRISE) internships:
http://ed.fullerton.edu/msti/resources/scholarships-stipends.php
For more information, please contact Dr. Megan Tommerup, Science Credential Preparation Program
Coordinator, [email protected]
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DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE FACULTY ROSTER
* Year joined faculty at CSUF
ABRAHAM, Joel K.
*(2011) Professor; Ph.D., UC Berkeley
Teaches:
Evolution and Organismal Biology, Seminar in Biology Education, Plant Ecology, Professional
Aspects of Biology: Teaching Effectiveness
Research Interests:
Biology education; student learning; educational technology; plant ecology
Office:
MH 224B
Phone: (657) 278-3138
[email protected]
BRENNAN, Catherine
*(2013) Associate Professor; Ph.D., University of Southern California
Teaches:
Immunology, Intermediate Cell Biology, Cellular and Molecular Biology
Research Interests:
Mechanisms of innate immune detection and signaling; phagosome biology; cell biology and
genetics
Office:
DBH 112A
Phone: (657) 278-3637
[email protected]
BURNAFORD, Jennifer
*(2009) Professor; Ph.D., Oregon State University
Co-Director, Southern California Ecosystems Research Program (SCERP), Faculty Advisor, CSUF Chapter of the SACNAS
Diversity in STEM society
Teaches:
Coastal Ecology, Marine Phycology, Scientific Communication Workshop
Research Interests:
Marine intertidal community ecology; marine algae and herbivory; habitat modification;
interactions between invasive and native species
Office:
MH 211E
Phone: (657) 278-2382
jburnaford@fullerton.edu
CHEN, Esther J.
*(2006) Professor; Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Teaches:
Genetics, General Microbiology, Advances in Molecular Genetics
Research Interests:
Molecular biology of microbe-host interactions; genes and signals in a nitrogen-fixing symbiosis
between bacteria and plants
Office:
MH 224C
Phone: (657) 278-2543
[email protected]
COHEN, Amybeth
*(1997) Professor; Ph.D., UC Riverside
DEPARTMENT CHAIR
Teaches:
Genetics, Principles of Gene Manipulation, Plant Cell Physiology
Research Interests:
Regulation of photosynthetic gene expression in plant cells, nuclear-chloroplast interactions,
expression of foreign therapeutic proteins in the unicellular green alga, Chlamydomonas
reinhardtii
Office:
MH 205B
Phone: (657) 278-2178
[email protected]
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DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE FACULTY ROSTER
CUAJUNGCO, Math P.
*(2007) Professor; Ph.D., University of Auckland, New Zealand
Director of Undergraduate Research Training Initiative for Student Enhancement (U-RISE) Program, Co-Investigator for
Neurocognitive Aging Analytics Research and Education (NAARE) Program
Teaches:
Cellular and Molecular Biology; Cellular Neurobiology; MARC Proseminar
Research Interests:
Molecular, structural, and cellular biology of transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels; zinc
neurobiology; metallobiology of Alzheimer’s disease; stem cell biology
Office:
MH 224E
Phone: (657) 278-8522
[email protected]
DER, Joshua
*(2015) Associate Professor; Ph.D., Utah State University
Teaches:
Principles of Evolution, Population Genetics, Plant Biology, Plant Taxonomy
Research Interests:
Plant evolutionary genomics, plant systematics, bioinformatics, and molecular evolution;
evolution of life history transitions in parasitic plants (esp. mistletoes) and land plants (esp. ferns)
Office:
MH 640A
Phone: (657) 278-4115
[email protected]
EERNISSE, Douglas J.
*(1994) Professor; Ph.D., UC Santa Cruz
Teaches:
Evolution, Field Marine Biology, Molecular Systematics, Invertebrate Zoology
Research Interests:
Animal phylogeny; evolution of Mollusca; marine zoology; systematics; population genetics;
bioinformatics
Office:
MH 636A
Phone: (657) 278-3749
deernisse@fullerton.edu
FORSGREN, Kristy
*(2012) Professor; Ph.D., University of Washington
Teaches:
Mammalian Physiology, Human Physiology, Marine Biology
Research Interests:
Gonadal development and reproductive dysfunction due to exposure to endocrine disrupting
compounds in fishes; comparative reproductive physiology
Office:
MH 319A
Phone: (657) 278-4573
kforsgren@fullerton.edu
HOESE, William J.
*(2000) Professor; Ph.D., Duke University
Teaches:
Elements of Biology, Evolution and Organismal Biology, Principles of Evolution, Professional
Aspects of Biology: Teaching, Problems in Environmental Biology, Ornithology
Research Interests:
Biology education; student learning; animal communication; functional morphology
Office:
MH 301B
Phone: (657) 278-2476
[email protected]
JIMENEZ ORTIZ, Veronica
*(2013) Associate Professor; Ph.D., University of Chile
Teaches:
Advances in Cell Biology, Intermediate Cell Biology, Mammalian Physiology, General
Parasitology
Research Interests:
Mechanisms of stress adaptation in protozoans, ion channels, cellular physiology
Office:
MH 307
Phone: (657) 278-2477
vjimenezortiz @fullerton.edu
JOHNSON, Hope A.
*(2008) Professor; Ph.D., Stanford University
Teaches:
Genetics, General Microbiology, Advances in Microbiology, Advanced Microbiology Lab
Research Interests:
Microbial metal oxidation and reduction - the formation and dissolution of rocks; identifying
the function of bacterial proteins with no known function; water quality and bioremediation
Office:
MH 211F
Phone: (657) 278-4529
[email protected]
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DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE FACULTY ROSTER
MIYAMOTO, Alison
*(2008) Associate Professor; Ph.D., Stanford University
Director of Creating Opportunities through Mentorship and Partnership Across Stem Cell Science (COMPASS)
Teaches:
Cellular and Molecular Biology, Intermediate Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Stem Cell
Biology, Microscopy and Imaging in Biology
Research Interests:
Molecular mechanisms of Notch receptor signaling by typical and atypical ligands; developmental
and cell biology of elastic fiber proteins; cell-matrix interactions in ovarian follicular angiogenesis
Office:
DBH 114A
Phone: (657) 278-2540
[email protected]
NIKOLAIDIS, Nikolas
*(2008) Professor; Ph.D., Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece)
Teaches:
Genetics, Bioinformatics, Medical Genetics
Research Interests:
Comparative genomics; bioinformatics; phylogenetics; molecular evolution and biochemistry of
proteins involved in the innate and adaptive immune systems and stress responses
Office:
MH 317A
Phone: (657) 278-4526
[email protected]
OLBERDING, Jeffrey
*(2021) Assistant Professor; Ph.D., University of South Florida
Teaches:
Human Physiology, Human Physiology Lab, Integrated Human Anatomy and Physiology
Research Interests:
Muscle physiology, biomechanics, the evolution and ecology of animal movement
Office:
MH 225C
Phone: (657) 278-7294
jolberding@fullerton.edu
PAIG-TRAN, Erin (Misty)
*(2014) Associate Professor; Ph.D., University of Washington
Teaches:
Ichthyology, Human Anatomy, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Field Marine Biology
Research Interests:
Comparative biomechanics, functional morphology, biomaterials, and biomimetics; emphasis on
marine systems
Office:
DBH 249
Phone: (657) 278-5921
[email protected]
PATEL, Nilay V.
*(2006) Associate Professor; Ph.D., State University of New York at Stony Brook
Director, CIRM Bridges to Stem Cell Research Program, Co-PI MSTEM STAR
Teaches:
Cellular and Molecular Biology, Intermediate Cell Biology, Techniques in Stem Cell Biology
Research Interests:
Role of apolipoprotein-E in Alzheimer Disease; apolipoprotein-E gene regulation
Office:
DBH 111A
Phone: (657) 278-2483
[email protected]
RAMIREZ, Maria Soledad
*(2014) Professor; Ph.D., University of Buenos Aires
Teaches:
Advances in Microbiology, General Microbiology, Clinical Microbiology, Public Health
Microbiology
Research Interests:
Antibiotic resistance, mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, mobile elements, infectious diseases,
mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer, whole genome comparison of bacterial genomes,
molecular techniques for species identification, emerging pathogens
Office:
DBH 117A
Phone: (657) 278-4562
[email protected]
SACCO, Melanie
*(2008) Professor; Ph.D., University of London
Teaches:
Genetics, Intermediate Molecular Biology, Molecular Virology, Principles of Gene Manipulation,
Plant Molecular Biology, Scientific Communication Workshop
Research Interests:
Molecular biology of plant-pathogen interactions, protein-protein interactions and signaling in
disease resistance
Office:
MH 685A
Phone: (657) 278-2539
msacco@fullerton.edu
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DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE FACULTY ROSTER
SANDQUIST, Darren R.
*(1999) Professor; Ph.D., University of Utah
Teaches:
Principles of Ecology, Plant Biology, Plant Physiological Ecology, Field Botany, Plant Ecology,
Desert Ecology
Research Interests:
Desert plant ecology; evolution and ecology of plant physiology; biogeochemistry; applications of
stable isotopes in ecological research; invasive species
Office:
MH 313
Phone: (657) 278-2606
[email protected]
SCHENK, H. Jochen
*(2002) Professor; Ph.D., UC Santa Barbara
Teaches:
Principles of Ecology, Plant Biology, Field Botany, Plant Physiological Ecology, Evolutionary
Ecology, Ecosystem Ecology, Professional Aspects of Biology
Research Interests:
Plant ecology, especially ecology of plant roots; spatial ecology of plant populations,
communities, and ecosystems; desert ecology; plant taxonomy.
Office:
MH 224D
Phone: (657) 278-3678
[email protected]
SHAHRESTANI, Parvin
*(2015) Associate Professor; Ph.D., UC Irvine
Teaches:
Genetics, Principles of Evolution, Biology of Aging, Elements of Biology
Research Interests:
Evolutionary genomics, experimental evolution, population genetics, aging and immunity in
Drosophila.
Office:
MH 224F
Phone: (657) 278-4233
[email protected]
STAPP, Paul
*(2002) Professor; Ph.D., Colorado State University
Graduate Studies Adviser, MS Biology
Teaches:
Principles of Ecology, Conservation Biology, Mammalogy, Professional Aspects of Biology
Research Interests:
Vertebrate population and community ecology; food webs; wildlife-habitat relationships; invasive
species; ecology of insular, desert and grassland ecosystems; conservation biology
Office:
MH 224G
Phone: (657) 278-2849
[email protected]
TOLMASKY, Marcelo E.
*(1995) Professor; Ph.D., University of Buenos Aires
Director, Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies (CABS), Director, Minority Health & Health Disparities Research
Training Program (MHRT), Director, Cancer Research Education Program (CREP)
Teaches:
Advances in Microbiology, Microbial Genetics, Advances in Biotechnology Laboratory
Research Interests:
Molecular genetics of mechanisms that contribute to the virulence of pathogenic bacteria
Office:
MH 382
Phone: (657) 278-5263
[email protected]
WALTER, Ryan
*(2015) Associate Professor; Ph.D., University of Windsor
Teaches:
Genetics, Principles of Ecology, Evolutionary Genetics, Ichthyology
Research Interests:
Molecular ecology, hybridization and speciation, phylogeography, organismal dispersal and
population connectivity, population genetics, evolution of fishes
Office:
MH 689A
Phone: (657) 278-4812
rwalter@fullerton.edu
ZACHERL, Danielle C.
*(2003) Professor; Ph.D., UC Santa Barbara
Teaches:
Think Like Einstein, Marine Biology, Invertebrate Zoology, Marine Ecology, Evolution and
Organismal Biology, Principles of Ecology
Research Interests:
Effects of larval dispersal and recruitment on the population ecology and biogeography of marine
invertebrates
Office:
MH 225D
Phone: (657) 278-7510
[email protected]
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DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE FACULTY ROSTER
FULL-TIME LECTURERS
CHAFFEE, Carol
Biol 101 Coordinator
*(2015) Full-time Lecturer; Ph.D., University of Florida
Teaches:
Elements of Biology
Office:
MH 221D
Phone: (657) 278-7098
[email protected]
TOMMERUP, Megan
Teaching Credential and
Biology Minor Adviser
*(2007) Full-time Lecturer; Ph.D., Claremont Graduate University
Teaches:
Biology for Future Teachers, Life Science Concepts, Environmental Biology, Elements of Biology
Office:
MH 211C
Phone: (657) 278-5283
mtommerup@fullerton.edu
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ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
Area Code 657
Phone #
Room #
California State University, Fullerton, General Information
278-2011
Biological Science Department Office ([email protected])
278-3614
MH 205
o Advising questions: email [email protected]
o Chair – Dr. Amybeth Cohen
278-3614
MH 205B
o Administrative Support Coordinator – Karen Lau
278-3614
MH 205A
o Teaching Credential Advisor – Dr. Megan Tommerup
Advises Biology majors seeking admission to the Single-Subject Credential Program.
278-5283
MH 211C
o Biology Minor Advisor – Dr. Megan Tommerup (mtom[email protected])
278-5283
MH 211C
CNSM Student Success Team
http://www.fullerton.edu/nsm/student_success/NSM_Student_Success_Center.php
MH 488
o Asst. Director Academic Advising – Tanya Kim (takim@fullerton.edu)
278-4158
MH 488
o Graduation Specialist – Sam Barrozo ([email protected])
278-7062
MH 488
o Graduation Specialist – Axis Avalos (axavalos@fullerton.edu)
278-2301
MH 488
o College Advisor – Natalie Mir (namir@fullerton.edu)
278-8750
MH 488
o College Advisor – Abraham Roldan ([email protected])
278-7217
MH 488
o Career Specialist – Chanda Ishisaka ([email protected])
278-2020
LH 208
Academic Advisement Center Provides guidance in the selection of elective and general education
courses, advises, and is the center for undeclared majors. No appointment is necessary.
278-3606
GH 123
Admission and Records Maintains students' matriculation and grade records and processes
graduation checks to verify degree completion. Students are required to submit official transcripts of all
work to this office. “Change of Academic Objective” forms for changing major and “Withdrawal”
forms are available here.
278-2300
LH 114
Career Planning and Placement Center Offers personal and career counseling. Offers a career
resources library, part-time job listings, career bank, and programs on a variety of career-oriented
subjects.
278-3121
LH 208
Center for Careers in Teaching Resource center for those interested in teaching in middle or high
school.
278-7130
EC 379
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Dean’s Office
278-2638
MH 166
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) Student Health and Counseling Center East, across
from Ruby Gerontology. For Biology majors, our counselor contact is Christina Carroll-Pavia, Ph.D.
278-3040
SHCC
Dean of Students Students are encouraged to resolve grade disputes informally through the instructor,
Department Chair, and Assistant Dean of the College. If informal resolution is not possible, the Dean of
Students will provide information and clarification about University policies and will work to resolve
the dispute.
278-4436
TSU 243
Disability Support Services Provides assistance and services to students with physical and learning
disabilities.
278-3117
GH 101
Financial Aid
278-3125
GH 146
Health Professions Advising Office NOTE: Advisement through the Health Professions Office does
not replace mandatory advisement through the Department.
278-3980
GH 223
Library Houses over 1.2 million books and periodicals and one and a half million other resource
items. May access collections of the 19 CSU libraries, UCI, UCR, & Fullerton College. Tours are
available.
278-2714
Pollak
Library
Student Health Center Provides medical care for illness and injury, family planning, health
education, and immunization programs.
278-2800
SHCC
Testing Center University testing services, including ELM, EPT, MQE, and CPE.
278-2288
GH 143
Transfer Resource Center Peer mentors and study area for recent Transfer students.
278-8398
MH 525
Tutoring NSM Student Success Center provides tutoring, computers, and photocopy machine.
278-7082
MH 488
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revised June 28, 2023
University Learning Center Offers academic support and tools to assist students in mastering test
taking and exam preparation skills. Lab and strategies classes are available.
278-2738
PLN 1
st
floor
Resources for Biology Majors
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (CNSM) Student Success Team
http://www.fullerton.edu/nsm/student_success/NSM_Student_Success_Center.php
Asst. Director Academic Advising, Tanya Kim
(MH-488) 657-278-4158
-Focus on Freshmen, Transfer Students
-Athletes, Fullerton Finish, Honors, Vetrans
College Advisor, Abraham Roldan
(MH-488) 657-278-7217 [email protected]
- Focus on Freshman
-- GE advising, TDA, registration help
Career Specialist, Chanda Ishisaka
(LH-208) 657-278-2020 cishi[email protected]du
- Career exploration, Internship/Job search
- Graduate/Professional school advising
Graduation Specialist, Axis Avalos
(MH-488) 657-278-2301 [email protected]
- Focus on Transfer Students
- Junior/Senior Advising
College Advisor, Natalie Mir
(MH-488) 657-278-8750 namir@fullerton.edu
- Focus on Freshmen
- GE advising, TDA, registration help
Tutoring
• NSM Student Success Center for Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Physics (MH-488) 657-278-
7082 http://www.fullerton.edu/nsm/student_success/NSM_Student_Success_Center.php
• Math Tutoring Center (MH-488) 657-278-3631
• Supplemental Instruction http://www.fullerton.edu/si/
• University Learning Center (PLN 1
st
floor) 657-278-2738 http://www.fullerton.edu/ulc/
• Writing Center (PLN 100) 657-278-3650 http://english.fullerton.edu/writing_center/
Career Resources
• Career Center (LH-208) 657-278-3121 http://www.fullerton.edu/career
• Center for Internships and Community Engagement (LH-206) 657-278-3746
http://www.fullerton.edu/cice/
• Center for Careers in Teaching (EC 379) 657-278-7130 http://ed.fullerton.edu/cct/
• Health Professions Advising Office (GH 223) 657-278-3980 http://www.fullerton.edu/healthprofessions
Other Resources (for complete listing see the Student Affairs website http://www.fullerton.edu/sa/)
• Scholarships http://www.fullerton.edu/financialaid/award/scholarships.php
• Directory of CSUF student clubs https://fullerton.campuslabs.com/engage/
• Student Health Center (SHCC West) 657-278-2800. Provides medical care for illness and injury, family
planning, health education, and immunizations.
• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) (SHCC East) 657-278-3040. For Biology students, our
counselor contact is Christina Carroll-Pavia, Ph.D.
• Tuffy’s Basic Needs Services (MH 143) 657-278-3583
http://www.fullerton.edu/deanofstudents/basic_needs/
• Disability Support Services (GH 101) 657-278-3112 http://www.fullerton.edu/dss/
• African American Resource Center (PLS 180, Rm 182) 657-278-3230 http://www.fullerton.edu/aarc/
• Asian Pacific American Resource Center (PLS 180, Rm 187) 657-278-3742
https://www.fullerton.edu/aparc/
• Latinx Resource Center (PLS 180, Rm 184) 657-278-2537 http://www.fullerton.edu/crc/
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• LGBT Queer Resource Center (PLS180, Rm 189) 657-278-4218 https://www.fullerton.edu/lgbtq/
• Titan Dreamers Resource Center (PLS 180, Rm 185) 657-278-3234 https://www.fullerton.edu/tdrc/
• Women’s Resource Center (LH 556) https://www.fullerton.edu/dirc/resource-centers/Womens Resource
Center.php
• Adult Re-Entry and Parenting Student Programs (GH 205) 657-278-3928
http://www.fullerton.edu/adultreentry/
• Veterans Student Services (GH-230) 657-278-8660 http://www.fullerton.edu/veterans/
42