Winter 07/Spring 08 Course Descriptions

All courses below are approved to be taught in Winter 2007 and Spring 2008; however, some (or all) may not be offered in either term.  The courses that are offered in Spring link to the Schedule of Classes.  Classes with alternative delivery modes (Web based, cable TV, correspondence, etc) are noted in the Schedule at the section level.  The complete list below is a good indicator of what may be offered over the next few years (contact department about offerings).  For explanations of course elements see the Key to Course Descriptions.

Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB )  Department Info

MCB 181L -- Introductory Biology Laboratory I  (1 unit)
Description:  Laboratory exercises presenting techniques and fundamental principles of modern biology. Designed to complement the information concurrently presented in 181R.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  $16.
Prerequisite(s):  or Concurrent registration, MCB 181R.
Identical to:  BIOC 181L, ECOL 181L, MIC 181L.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 181R -- Introductory Biology I  (3-4 units)
Description:  Introduction to the cell and its properties, basic genetics, the immune system, recombinant DNA technology with illustrations from bacteria, plants, animals and humans. Honors section available for 4 units.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  at least Level III placement on the Math Readiness Test; Concurrent registration, MCB 181L (applicable for Fall term only).
Identical to:  BIOC 181R, ECOL 181R, MIC 181R.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 182L -- Introductory Biology II Lab  (1 unit)
Description:  Diversity and evolution of life; structure and function of plants, animals, and organ systems; processes of micro and macroevolution, strategies and selection of different species; phylogenetics and descent
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  $10.
Prerequisite(s):  ECOL 182R or concurrent registration. At least Level III placement on the Math Readiness Test. High school biology recommended.
Identical to:  ECOL 182L; ECOL is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 182R -- Introductory Biology II  (3-5 units)
Description:  Origin, diversity and evolution of life; physiology of plants, animals and organ systems; processes of micro and macroevolution; animal behavior and ecology of populations and communities emphasizing biotic interactions and biogeography. Designed for biology majors.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  At least Level III placement on the Math Readiness Test. High school biology recommended.
Identical to:  ECOL 182R; ECOL is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 195A -- Great Experiments in Microbiology  (1 unit)
Description:  This course will present classical experiments and discoveries that served as the foundation of modern microbiology and immunology. Significant milestones, major figures, and their original writings will be discussed, as well as the application of the scientific method and the role of accidental discoveries in the progress of science.   This is a First-Year Colloquium Course.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Identical to:  MIC 195A; MIC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 195C -- Society and Science  (1 unit)
Description:  This colloquium is designed to explore contemporary issues faced by society. The focus is on developing the critical-thinking skills necessary to deal with the complex issues arising from modern technology and science. Topics used to illustrate problems and to develop critical thinking skills include: human disease, nutrition, genetic screening, genetic engineering, environmental issues, human behavior and other topics.   This is a First-Year Colloquium Course.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Identical to:  BIOC 195C; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 195D -- Molecular and Cellular Biology of Cancer  (1 unit)
Description:  Colloquium on the molecular and cellular biology of cancer.  This is a First-Year Colloquium Course.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 195E -- Molecules, Germs and Human Disease  (1 unit)
Description:  The course will examine the molecular basis of several important human diseases such as AIDS, small pox, and cholera and will relate these and other diseases to the evolution of different world societies. Discussions will include the role of diseases on the rise of civilization, the movement of humans across the world, and the interactions of humans with their environment. This is a First-Year Colloquium Course.  This is a First-Year Colloquium Course.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 199 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 10 times (maximum 11 enrollments).
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 199H -- Honors Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 285L -- Principles of Microbiology Laboratory  (1 unit)
Description:  The course is the laboratory course to accompany MIC 285R.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 181R, MCB 181L, ECOL 182R, ECOL 182L, CHEM 103A, CHEM 103B, CHEM 104A, CHEM 104B: Concurrent registration, MIC 285R for MIC and V SC majors. Strongly recommended that MIC 285L and MIC 285R be taken together for all others
Identical to:  MIC 285L; MIC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 285R -- Principles of Microbiology  (4 units)
Description:  The course is an introductory microbiology class for majors, emphasizing cellular, biochemical and molecular aspects of metabolism, genetics, cell structure, and host-parasite interactions
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 181R, MCB 181L, ECOL 182, CHEM 103A, CHEM 103B, CHEM 104A, CHEM 104B: Concurrent registration, MIC 285L for MIC and V SC majors. Strongly recommended that MIC 285L and MIC 285R be taken together for all others
Identical to:  MIC 285R; MIC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 297A -- Undergraduate Lab Preceptor  (3 units)
Description:  Undergraduate preceptors will work as a team with graduate assistants and course staff to teach students in Biology 181 labs. They will learn learner-centered teaching techniques, web page design, effective communication skills, and how to organize and execute a lesson plan.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  or Concurrent registration, MCB 181L; MATH 110.
May be repeated:  for credit 2 times (maximum 3 enrollments).
Identical to:  ECOL 297A.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 299 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 299H -- Honors Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 320 -- Genetics  (4 units)
Description:  The principles that govern the inheritance of all living organisms including molecular, chromosomal, organismal, population and evolutionary aspects of genetics. Extensive problem solving required.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E. Available to qualified students for Pass/Fail Option.
Prerequisite(s):  ECOL 181R ECOL 181L, ECOL 182, CHEM 103B, CHEM 104B.
Identical to:  ECOL 320; ECOL is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 320H -- Genetics  (5 units)
Description:  The principles that govern the inheritance of all living organisms including molecular, chromosomal, organismal, population and evolutionary aspects of genetics. Extensive problem solving required.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  ECOL 320H; ECOL is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 321 -- Genetics Lab  (2 units)
Description:  Laboratory principles and techniques that govern genetic analysis, including molecular, chromosomal, organismal, population, and evolutionary aspects.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  $35.
Prerequisite(s):  ECOL 181R, ECOL 181L , ECOL 182R, ECOL 182L; ECOL/MCB 320 or equivalent or ECOL/MCB 320H or equivalent.
Typical structure:  1 hour lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
Identical to:  ECOL 321; ECOL is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 340 -- Introduction to Biotechnology  (3 units)
Description:  Survey of the basic concepts and techniques used in the analysis and improvement of biological organisms by genetic engineering.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PL S 130 or MCB 181R.
Identical to:  PL S 340; PL S is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 360 -- Principles of Plant Physiology  (3 units)
Description:  Survey of the fundamental concepts of plant physiology and how those concepts are supported by evidence from physiological, biochemical, biophysical, molecular and genomic experiments. The emphasis is on “whole plant” physiology and how plants work in the real world.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PL S 130 or MCB 181R and MCB 181L; CHEM 103A, CHEM 103B. CHEM 241A and CHEM 241B recommended.
Identical to:  PL S 360; PL S is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 361 -- Principles of Plant Physiology Laboratory  (1 unit)
Description:  Laboratory exercises in plant physiology.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  or Concurrent registration, PL S 360.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Identical to:  PL S 361; PL S is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 392 -- Directed Research  (1-6 units)
Description:  Individual of small group research under the guidance of faculty.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 12 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 396I -- Women in Science & Engineering  (2 units)
Description:  This course is designed to encourage women to study science or engineering, to prepare to enter the scientific workforce, and to take advantage of mentoring opportunities that will assist them over time to advance to positions of scientific leadership.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Identical to:  W S 396I.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 399 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 399H -- Honors Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 400 -- Computer Concepts and Perl Programming  (3 units)
Description:  This course is designed for biology students who have no experience in computer programming. It will cover basics of computers and perl programming. The student will be able to write simple programs, for example, parse files to extract information, reformat files, and summarize the content of a file. This will greatly save time of visually parsing pages of output from such programs as Blast and enable the student to better data mine the massive amounts of data in genomic and biological databases. The student will also learn concepts in computers so that they can easily collaborate with computational researchers and programmers.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  ECOL 400, GENE 400, BIOC 400.
May be convened with:  MCB 500.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 401 -- Medical Biochemistry Problem Solving  (1 unit)
Description:  Application of protein and metabolic biochemistry to solving medical biochemistry cases using independent literature research; findings will be written and presented orally
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 460 or BIOC 462B and consent of instructor.
Identical to:  BIOC 401; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 404 -- Contemporary Biology in Human Affairs  (3-4 units)
Description:  Advances in biomedical research will be reviewed and their ethical, social and legal implications discussed. Honors section available.  This is a Writing Emphasis Course.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  satisfaction of the Mid-Career Writing Assessment (MCWA) or the former upper-division writing proficiency requirement (UDWPE); one year of college-level introductory biology; botany not acceptable.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 407 -- Neurobiology  (4 units)
Description:  Cellular, molecular and developmental biology of nerve cells, synapses and neural systems.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 410 or equivalent, MCB 181R, MCB 181L, MCB 182 R and MCB 182L.
Identical to:  BIOC 407, NRSC 407.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 408L -- Genes, Biotechnology and the Environment  (2 units)
Description:  This course is an intensive summer lab course in DNA technology for secondary school science teachers and pre-service teachers. Students use molecular techniques of PCR, DNA sequencing, and computer BLAST searches to learn how genes and molecules are linked to the ecology of many species. The course may include field trips and may involve high school student participants.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Some background in biology, experience or interest in science teaching.
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 1 hour lecture.
May be repeated:  for credit 2 times (maximum 3 enrollments).
Identical to:  ECOL 408L; ECOL is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 508L.
Usually offered:  Summer.

MCB 409 -- Evolution of Infectious Disease  (3 units)
Description:  Causes and consequences of evolutionary change in pathogens. Evolutionary principles, vertebrate immunity, molecular epidemiology, evolution of virulence, evolution of antimicrobial resistance, predicting epidemics, impacts of infectious disease on host evolution, HIV evolution.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  ECOL 182R, ECOL 182L, MCB 181R or consent of instructor.
Identical to:  ECOL 409; ECOL is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 509.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 410 -- Cell Biology  (3-4 units)
Description:  The molecular basis of the structure and function of animal, plant and prokaryotic cells with emphasis on experimental analysis. Honors section available. Student with a prior failed attempt may only retake the course once.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 181R, MCB 181L, MCB 182R, MCB 182L, MCB 462A or MCB 460; recommend MCB 320 and Concurrent registration, MCB 411.
Identical to:  MIC 410, BIOC 410, PL S 410.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 411 -- Molecular Biology  (3-4 units)
Description:  Mechanisms of genome replication, genetic recombination, DNA repair, gene expression and regulation. Honors section available. Student with a prior failed attempt may only retake the course once.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 181R, MCB 181L, MCB 182; MCB 462A or MCB 460. Students can obtain credit for only one of these courses: MCB 411, BIOC 461, or BIOC 466.
Identical to:  BIOC 411, MIC 411.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 414 -- Science and Theology  (3 units)
Description:  Exploration of the interface between science and theology to understand the obstacles to their rational integration.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 404; open to science majors or others with consent of instructor.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 415 -- Molecular Genetics  (2 units)
Description:  This course will cover the foundations of molecular biology: 1) how cells and organisms transmit information to the next generation, and 2) how cells use a DNA template to generate proteins and other components. Topics will include mechanisms of genome replication, transcription, translation, and the control of gene expression. All material will be integrated with MCB 320, Genetics, which must be taken at the same time. This course will emphasize the connections between key concepts in molecular biology and genetics. One hour lecture/discussion and one hour computer lab/paper discussions per week.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Mutually Exclusive: Credit allowed for only one of these courses: MCB 415 or MCB 411
Prerequisite(s):  CHEM 103A, CHEM 103B, MCB 181L, MCB 181R, ECOL 320.
Typical structure:  1 hour lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 416 -- Bioinformatics and Genomic Analysis  (3 units)
Description:  Analysis of genome sequences for function using local and internet computer resources. Consult instructor for appropriate prerequisites before enrolling.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  programming experience.
Identical to:  BIOC 416, ECOL 416, GENE 416.
May be convened with:  MCB 516.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 421B -- Microbiological Techniques  (3 units)
Description:  Experiments to facilitate the development of laboratory skills in basic and applied microbiology and biotechnology with emphasis in physiology and metabolism genetics, immunology and pathogenesis.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  $25.
Prerequisite(s):  MIC 205A, MIC 205L. MIC 421A is not prerequisite to MIC 421B.
Typical structure:  1 hour lecture, 6 hours laboratory.
Identical to:  MIC 421B; MIC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 422 -- Problem Solving with Genetic Tools  (3 units)
Description:  Computer-simulated laboratory. Solving problems via genetic experiments in phage, yeast, and Mendelian genetic systems. Individual and team projects require deduction and discovery of genotype, pathway, and genetic phenomena through crosses and phenotypic observation. 1 hour in-class lecture, 1 hour on-line tutorial, 3 hours of lab each week. Honors contract available and requires completion of additional problems in each section.  This is a Writing Emphasis Course.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  satisfaction of the Mid-Career Writing Assessment (MCWA) or the former upper-division writing proficiency requirement (UDWPE); MCB 181R, ECOL 182R, ECOL 182L, ECOL 320.
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 2 hours lecture.
Identical to:  ECOL 422.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 433 -- Medical and Molecular Virology  (4 units)
Description:  Structure, classification, replication, and mechanisms of pathogenesis of human and animal viruses.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MIC 181R, MIC 181L, MIC 205A or consent of instructor.
Identical to:  V SC 433; V SC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 437 -- Vertebrate Physiology  (4 units)
Description:  Basic principles of vertebrate physiology dealing particularly with physiological homeostasis maintained by interactions of complex organ systems.  This is a Writing Emphasis Course.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  satisfaction of the Mid-Career Writing Assessment (MCWA) or the former upper-division writing proficiency requirement (UDWPE); ECOL 181R, ECOL 181L, ECOL 182R, ECOL 182L, and one semester of organic chemistry. Genetics and biochemistry suggested.
Identical to:  ECOL 437; ECOL is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 440 -- Plant Growth and Development  (3 units)
Description:  Surveys central concepts in plant developmental biology including analysis of plant structure and developmental patterns and the molecular, genetic, genomic and physiological bases of plant form and function.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  CHEM 241B and MCB 320 or PL S 312. One course in Biochemistry and one course in Microbiology are recommended.
Identical to:  PL S 440; PL S is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 540.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 446 -- Insect Pathogens: Biocontrol Agents & Biological Models  (4 units)
Description:  Ecology and biology of insect pathogens (viruses, bacteria, protozoa, nematodes). Diagnostics, safey testing of pathogens. Genomics and genetic engineering of entomopathogens. Insect pathogens as biological model organisms. Applications in medical and veterinary research and pharmaceutical bioprospecting.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Course includes 1 or more field trips.
Prerequisite(s):  ENTO 411, ENTO 415L, ENTO 415R or consent of instructor.
Typical structure:  1 hour laboratory, 2 hours lecture, 1 hour discussion.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Identical to:  ENTO 446; ENTO is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 449A -- Plant Genetics and Genomics  (3 units)
Description:  A 3 unit lecture/discussion course that provides an advanced treatment of the current knowledge and experimental approaches used in genetic and genomic analysis, with emphasis on plants. Basic understanding of Mendelian genetics, gene and genome structure and function is required.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PL S 312.
Identical to:  PL S 449A; PL S is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 549A.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 450 -- Advances in Molecular Medicine  (3 units)
Description:  Discussion of the molecular aspects of medical research frontiers and human diseases. This is a Writing Emphasis Course that requires written essays, web page design, and oral presentations  This is a Writing Emphasis Course.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  satisfaction of the Mid-Career Writing Assessment (MCWA) or the former upper-division writing proficiency requirement (UDWPE); MCB 181R, CHEM 241B; an advanced course in genetics, molecular, and cell biology.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 451 -- Drosophila: Model System for Evolution  (3 units)
Description:  Drosophila is the most important eukaryotic model system for comparative studies in biology. We will explore several aspects of its ecology, genetics and evolution, making connections to general concepts of biology and applied research. The course will combine lectures with hands-on activities (lab and computer) and field trips.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E. Available to qualified students for Pass/Fail Option.
Course includes 1 or more field trips.
Prerequisite(s):  ECOL 320 or ECOL 335.
Typical structure:  2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
Identical to:  ECOL 451; ECOL is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 551.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 453 -- Functional and Evolutionary Genomics  (4 units)
Description:  Computational, functional, and evolutionary approaches to genomics, including bioinformatics and laboratory methods relevant to many modern research approaches in biology.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Genetics or molecular biology beyond introductory biology, or consent of instructor.
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 3 hours lecture.
Identical to:  ECOL 453; ECOL is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 553.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 453L -- Functional and Evolutionary Genomics - Laboratory  (1 unit)
Description:  Computational, functional, and evolutionary approaches to genomics, including bioinformatics and laboratory methods.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Concurrent registration, ECOL 453R.
Identical to:  ECOL 453L; ECOL is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 455 -- Developmental Mechanisms  (3 units)
Description:  Molecular and cellular mechanisms of development, with emphasis on model systems.  This is a Writing Emphasis Course.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  satisfaction of the Mid-Career Writing Assessment (MCWA) or the former upper-division writing proficiency requirement (UDWPE); MCB 181R, MCB 181L, an advanced course in genetics, molecular or cell biology.
Identical to:  BIOC 455.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 460 -- General Protein and General Metabolic Biochemistry  (3 units)
Description:  Fundamentals of biochemistry, including proteins, enzymes, carbohydrates and lipids and their metabolic relationships.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 181R, CHEM 241B (or equivalent). Open to non-majors only. Credit allowed for only BIOC 460 or BIOC 462A and/or BIOC 462B
Identical to:  BIOC 460; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 462A -- Biochemistry  (4-5 units)
Description:  Introduction to the properties and metabolism of proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes, carbohydrates and lipids. Designed primarily for majors and minors in chemistry, biochemistry and biology. For honors credit register for 5 units.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 181R, CHEM 241B, one semester of calculus. Honors section available for 5 honors credits. Credit allowed for either BIOC462A or BIOC460, not both
Identical to:  BIOC 462A; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 462B -- Biochemistry  (4-5 units)
Description:  Introduction to the properties and metabolism of proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes, carbohydrates and lipids. Designed primarily for majors and minors in chemistry, biochemistry and biology. For honors credit register for 5 units.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E. Available to qualified students for Pass/Fail Option.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 462A. Credit allowed for either BIOC 462B or BIOC 460, but not for both.
Identical to:  BIOC 462B; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 464 -- Neurophysiology: Sensorimotor Perspective  (3 units)
Description:  Focuses on mammalian sensorimotor system as a model system to understand principles of neural communication, sensory functions, information processing, and production of behavioral responses.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PSIO 201, PSIO 202, MATH 111, PHYS 102, PHYS 103.
Identical to:  PSIO 464; PSIO is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 564.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 467 -- Endocrine Physiology  (3 units)
Description:  Mammalian endocrine regulation from an integrative physiology perspective. Primary focus is on calcium and fuel metabolism, stress, fluid balance, reproduction, and growth and development.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PSIO 201, PSIO 202 or MCB 181R, MCB 181L.
Identical to:  PSIO 467; PSIO is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 470 -- The Cell and the Environment  (3 units)
Description:  The molecular and cellular responses to the environment.  This is a Writing Emphasis Course.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  satisfaction of the Mid-Career Writing Assessment (MCWA) or the former upper-division writing proficiency requirement (UDWPE); MCB 410, and/or biochemistry.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 473 -- Recombinant DNA Methods and Applications  (4 units)
Description:  Relevant techniques for the isolation, purification, and cloning of genes in E. Coli hosts. Eukaryotic lambda genomic DNA clones will be characterized by restriction mapping, hybridization analysis, and sequence analysis. Writing emphasis course.  This is a Writing Emphasis Course.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  $150.
Prerequisite(s):  satisfaction of the Mid-Career Writing Assessment (MCWA) or the former upper-division writing proficiency requirement (UDWPE); BIOC 460 or BIOC 462A. Concurrent registration, MCB 411.
Typical structure:  6 hours laboratory, 2 hours lecture.
Identical to:  BIOC 473, GENE 473, MIC 473, PL S 473.
May be convened with:  MCB 573.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 491 -- Preceptorship  (2 units)
Description:  Specialized work on an individual basis, consisting of instruction and practice in actual service in a department, program, or discipline. Teaching formats may include seminars, in-depth studies, laboratory work and patient study.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 6 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 492 -- Directed Research  (1-6 units)
Description:  Individual or small group research under the guidance of faculty.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 12 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 494 -- Practicum  (1-3 units)
Description:  The practical application, on an individual basis, of previously studied theory and the collection of data for future theoretical interpretation.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 495F -- Topics in Entrepreneurship for Scientists  (1 unit)
Description:  This course will present different topics in and aspects of entrepreneurship specifically for undergraduate and graduate students in science
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Some business knowledge is presumed, but not required. Proposal writing experience beneficial.
May be repeated:  for credit 3 times (maximum 4 enrollments).
Identical to:  PHYS 495F; PHYS is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 595F.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 496A -- Molecular and Cellular Biology  (1 unit)
Description:  The development and exchange of scholarly information, usually in a small group setting. The scope of work shall consist of research by course registrants, with the exchange of the results of such research through discussion, reports, and/or papers.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  consult instructor before enrolling.
May be repeated:  for credit 6 times (maximum 7 enrollments).
May be convened with:  MCB 596A.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 496J -- Frontiers in Medical Research  (1 unit)
Description:  Current translational medical research presented in a seminar format by a variety of faculty research teams consisting of a clinical physician scientist and a basic scientist. Focus is on current research, relevant issues, historical perspectives and personal experience.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 8 times (maximum 9 enrollments).
Identical to:  CBIO 496J; CBIO is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 596J.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 496M -- Exploring Life on the WWW: The Digital Dissemination of Biological Research  (3 units)
Description:  This course is designed for aspiring life scientists and science teachers. It will improve students' literacy in the areas of life science data management, information technology, and the effective exchange of scientific information across disciplines and professional cultures.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E. Available to qualified students for Pass/Fail Option.
Prerequisite(s):  ECOL 182R, ECOL 182L, and consent of instructor.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Identical to:  ENTO 496M; ENTO is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 596M.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 496N -- Non-Linear Dynamics of Biological Systems  (2-4 units)
Description:  Non-linear dynamics of biological systems with applications in biochemistry, ecology, epidemiology, and molecular biology. Student/faculty presentations, opportunity for independent projects.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  two semesters of calculus, consent of instructor.
May be repeated:  for credit 4 times (maximum 5 enrollments).
Identical to:  ECOL 496N; ECOL is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 497A -- Special Tutoring Workshop  (1-5 units)
Description:  The practical application of theoretical learning within a group setting and involving an exchange of ideas and practical methods, skills, and principles.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 320 or PL S 312 and MCB 410 or MCB 411; open to MCB and biochemistry majors only. Consult department before enrolling.
May be repeated:  for a total of 10 units of credit.
Identical to:  BIOC 497A.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 498 -- Senior Capstone  (1-5 units)
Description:  A culminating experience for majors involving a substantive project that demonstrates a synthesis of learning accumulated in the major, including broadly comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and its methodologies. Senior standing required.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 10 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 498H -- Honors Thesis  (3 units)
Description:  An honors thesis is required of all the students graduating with honors. Students ordinarily sign up for this course as a two-semester sequence. The first semester the student performs research under the supervision of a faculty member; the second semester the student writes an honors thesis.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 9 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 499 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 499H -- Honors Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 500 -- Computer Concepts and Perl Programming  (3 units)
Description:  This course is designed for biology students who have no experience in computer programming. It will cover basics of computers and perl programming. The student will be able to write simple programs, for example, parse files to extract information, reformat files, and summarize the content of a file. This will greatly save time of visually parsing pages of output from such programs as Blast and enable the student to better data mine the massive amounts of data in genomic and biological databases. The student will also learn concepts in computers so that they can easily collaborate with computational researchers and programmers. Graduate-level requirements include writing a functional specification that is due at mid-term and at the end of the semester. A functional specification will describe a computational problem that the student wants solved to aid in their biological research.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  ECOL 500, GENE 500, BIOC 500.
May be convened with:  MCB 400.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 508L -- Genes, Biotechnology and the Environment  (2 units)
Description:  This course is an intensive summer lab course in DNA technology for secondary school science teachers and pre-service teachers. Students use molecular techniques of PCR, DNA sequencing, and computer BLAST searches to learn how genes and molecules are linked to the ecology of many species. The course may include field trips and may involve high school student participants. Graduate-level requirements include writing and presenting to the class a plan for applying course material to a secondary science classroom by using biotechnology and bioinformatics to answer a problem in ecology and/or evolution.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Some experience with lab techniques/biotechnology required (equivalent to BIOC 597A "DNA Recombinant Techniques").
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 1 hour lecture.
May be repeated:  for credit 2 times (maximum 3 enrollments).
Identical to:  ECOL 508L; ECOL is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 408L.
Usually offered:  Summer.

MCB 509 -- Evolution of Infectious Disease  (3 units)
Description:  Causes and consequences of evolutionary change in pathogens. Evolutionary principles, vertebrate immunity, molecular epidemiology, evolution of virulence, evolution of antimicrobial resistance, predicting epidemics, impacts of infectious disease on host evolution, HIV evolution. Graduate-level requirements include a term paper and an in-class presentation on the same topic.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  ECOL 509; ECOL is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 409.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 512A -- Biological Electron Microscopy  (5 units)
Description:  Provides theoretical background and practical experience in transmission and scanning electron microscopy that are necessary for the efficient and effective application of ultra-structural and cytochemical techniques as research tools.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  one college-level course in each of physics, chemistry, and biology.
Typical structure:  9 hours laboratory, 2 hours lecture.
Identical to:  AN S 512A, BIOC 512A, CBA 512A, ENTO 512A, PATH 512A, PL P 512A, PSIO 512A, V SC 512A.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 516 -- Bioinformatics and Genomic Analysis  (3 units)
Description:  Analysis of genome sequences for function using local and internet computer resources. Consult instructor for appropriate prerequisites before enrolling. Graduate-level requirement include a research project, written report, and a class presentation.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 500.
Identical to:  ECOL 516, BIOC 516, GENE 516.
May be convened with:  MCB 416.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 520 -- College Science Teaching and Learning  (3 units)
Description:  An introduction to an inquiry based approach to science teaching at the college level. Appropriate for graduate students pursuing academic careers in colleges or universities.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 528L -- Microbial Genetics Laboratory  (2 units)
Description:  Laboratory associated with lecture course on Prokaryotic gene structure and function; methods of gene transfer and mapping, DNA structure, replication, transcription, and translation. Hands-on computer analysis of DNA sequences and gene cloning strategies. Principles of regulation of gene expression. Biology of plasmids and bacteriophages. Graduate-level requirements include the DNA sequence of an entire operon from any one of a variety of bacteria and additionally analyze one product from the operon using several GCG protein analysis programs. Also extra exam questions.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  $15.
Identical to:  PL P 528L; PL P is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 528R -- Microbial Genetics  (3 units)
Description:  Prokaryotic gene structure and function; methods of gene transfer and mapping, DNA structure, replication, transcription, and translation. Hands-on computer analysis of DNA sequences and gene cloning strategies. Principles of regulation of gene expression. Biology of plasmids and bacteriophages. Graduate-level requirements include a DNA sequence of an entire operon from any one of a variety of bacteria and additionally analyze one product from the operon using several GCG protein analysis programs. An extensive exam.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PL P 528R; PL P is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 529 -- General Virology  (3 units)
Description:  Essential features of the viruses, including structure, gene expression and life cycle. Introduction to pathogenesis with respect to humans, other animals, and plants.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  CHEM 241B, CHEM 243B; MCB 411 suggested.
Identical to:  IMB 529; IMB is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 533 -- Human Genetics  (3 units)
Description:  Basic genetic theory and techniques, as applied to the human species; methods of analysis of genetic and environmental variation among individuals and populations.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  GENE 533; GENE is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 540 -- Plant Growth and Development  (3 units)
Description:  Surveys central concepts in plant developmental biology including analysis of plant structure and developmental patterns and the molecular, genetic, genomic and physiological bases of plant form and function. Graduate-level requirements include 7 journal club discussions and presentations for graduate students and honors undergraduate students.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PL S 540; PL S is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 440.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 546 -- Advanced Genetics  (4 units)
Description:  This course will explore the logic of genetics by discussion of primary literature papers focusing on model systems. .
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  undergraduate genetics course, molecular biology course, and consent of instructor.
Typical structure:  1 hour individual studies, 3 hours lecture.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 549A -- Plant Genetics and Genomics  (3 units)
Description:  A 3 unit lecture/discussion course that provides an advanced treatment of the current knowledge and experimental approaches used in genetic and genomic analysis, with emphasis on plants. Basic understanding of Mendelian genetics, gene and genome structure and function is required. Graduate-level requirements include leading 3 course discussions on review articles and problem sets and write a paper based on each of the three research discussions that they lead.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PL S 549A; PL S is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 449A.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 551 -- Drosophila: Model System for Evolution  (3 units)
Description:  Drosophila is the most important eukaryotic model system for comparative studies in biology. We will explore several aspects of its ecology, genetics and evolution, making connections to general concepts of biology and applied research. The course will combine lectures with hands-on activities (lab and computer) and field trips. Graduate-level requirements include a review paper on one of the topics discussed in class and additional homework.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Course includes 1 or more field trips.
Typical structure:  2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
Identical to:  ECOL 551; ECOL is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 451.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 553 -- Functional and Evolutionary Genomics  (4 units)
Description:  Computational, functional, and evolutionary approaches to genomics, including bioinformatics and laboratory methods relevant to many modern research approaches in biology. Graduate-leve requirements include students completing independently designed lab exercises and relate these to the primary literature in a paper. Undergraduate students will only complete defined lab exercises.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Concurrent registration, ECOL 553L for first year IGERT fellows.
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 3 hours lecture.
Identical to:  ECOL 553; ECOL is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 453.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 556 -- Developmental Biology  (3 units)
Description:  Graduate-level introduction to principles of vertebrate and invertebrate embryo development.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 181L, MCB 181R, ECOL 182L, ECOL 182R, BIOC 462A and consult department before enrolling.
Identical to:  CBA 556; CBA is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 557 -- Concepts in Cellular Differentiation  (2 units)
Description:  The differentiation of several cell types will be studied in detail through readings of the current literature. Students will be expected to present one topic in depth at one meeting of the class and to present briefly one paper each week. Topics to be coordinated with ANS 556.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  CBA 577 or equivalent.
Identical to:  CBA 557; CBA is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 560 -- Core Concepts in Plant Biology  (4 units)
Description:  Physiological, biochemical, genetic and molecular biological principles fundamental to graduate level study of growth, development and reproduction of plants in normal and stressful environments.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PL S 360, CHEM 462A, CHEM 462B.
Identical to:  PL S 560; PL S is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 561 -- Core Concepts in Plant Biology II  (4 units)
Description:  Physiological, biochemical, genetic and molecular biological principles fundamental to graduate level study of growth, development and reproduction of plants in normal and stressful environments.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PL S 360, BIOC 462A, BIOC 462B.
Typical structure:  3 hours lecture, 1 hour discussion.
Identical to:  PL S 561; PL S is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 564 -- Neurophysiology: Sensorimotor Perspective  (3 units)
Description:  Focuses on mammalian sensorimotor system as a model system to understand principles of neural communication, sensory functions, information processing, and production of behavioral responses. Graduate-level requirements include a research paper.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PSIO 564; PSIO is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 464.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 568 -- Nucleic Acids  (4 units)
Description:  Chemistry, structure, and function of nucleic acids; replication, transcription translation, gene organization, regulation of gene expression and organelle nucleic acids. Both procaryotic and eucaryotic systems will be considered.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 411 or consent of instructor.
Identical to:  BIOC 568; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 572 -- Cell Systems  (3 units)
Description:  Advanced treatment of biological regulation in eukaryotic cells. Topics to be discussed include regulation of cellular metabolism, cytoskeletal dynamics, organelle function, and cell division.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MCB 462A, MCB 462B, and consult department before enrolling.
Identical to:  BIOC 572.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 573 -- Recombinant DNA Methods and Applications  (4 units)
Description:  Relevant techniques for the isolation, purification, and cloning of genes in E. Coli hosts. Eukaryotic lambda genomic DNA clones will be characterized by restriction mapping, hybridization analysis, and sequence analysis. Writing emphasis course. Graduate-level requirements include a one hour discussion section of classic and recent papers featuring major advances in molecular biology or their application to current issues or problems.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  $150.
Typical structure:  6 hours laboratory, 2 hours lecture.
Identical to:  BIOC 573, GENE 573, MIC 573, PL S 573.
May be convened with:  MCB 473.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 577 -- Principles of Cell Biology  (4 units)
Description:  Intensive, graduate-level introduction to principles and mechanisms of cell biology, including current research strategies in the field.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  consent of course coordinator.
Identical to:  CBA 577; CBA is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 578 -- Signal Transduction in Molecular Medicine  (3 units)
Description:  Advanced treatment of the biochemistry and molecular biology of disease, considering both genomic and environmental factors.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 462A, BIOC462B, or consent of instructor.
Identical to:  BIOC 578; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 585 -- Biological Structure I  (4 units)
Description:  Introduction to the current understanding and methods used for study of the structure, thermodynamics, and dynamics of proteins, nucleic acids, and membranes.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 462A; BIOC 565, CHEM 480B, or consent of instructor.
Identical to:  BIOC 585; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 588 -- Principles of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology  (4 units)
Description:  Detailed introduction to the biology of nerve cells, emphasizing cellular neurophysiology, synaptic mechanisms, and analysis of neural development.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  consult program office before enrolling.
Identical to:  NRSC 588; NRSC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 589 -- Cancer Genetics  (3 units)
Description:  Understanding of correlations of molecular biology/chromosomal change in human cancer and the role of genetic change in progression and metastasis of cancer.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  ECOL 320, MCB 320.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Identical to:  CBIO 589; CBIO is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 595A -- Topics in Molecular Biology  (1-3 units)
Description:  Student participation in the presentation and discussion of current literature and research in various areas of molecular, cellular, and developmental biology.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  open to majors only.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 595B -- Journal Club  (1 unit)
Description:  The exchange of scholarly information and/or secondary research, usually in a small group setting. Instruction often includes lectures by several different persons. Research projects may or may not be required of course registrants.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 5 times (maximum 6 enrollments).
Identical to:  BIOC 595B; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 595C -- Current Topics in Biochem and MCB Research  (1 unit)
Description:  Students do directed reading and discussion of current literature and attend lectures on current research by experts in the field.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 4 times (maximum 5 enrollments).
Identical to:  BIOC 595C; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 595E -- Topics in Research  (2 units)
Description:  The exchange of scholarly information and research findings for graduate students participating in the NIH/IMSD Minority Health Disparities Program.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 595F -- Topics in Entrepreneurship for Scientists  (1 unit)
Description:  This course will present different topics in and aspects of entrepreneurship specifically for undergraduate and graduate students in science Graduate-level requirements include the invention of a technology-based product and write an early stage business plan around that product with the intent of bringing that product to market. This project is intensive and involves a great deal more intellectual acuity, problem-solving, analysis, research, and foresight than the undergraduate project. The quantity of outside hours required of the graduate student project is significantly greater than that of the undergraduates, as is its degree of difficulty.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Some business knowledge is presumed, but not required. Students encouraged to take B AD 510 or an equivalent course. Proposal writing experience beneficial.
May be repeated:  for credit 3 times (maximum 4 enrollments).
Identical to:  PHYS 595F; PHYS is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 495F.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 595G -- Cancer Biology: Focus on Breast Cancer  (1 unit)
Description:  This a graduate-level journal club which will focus on the biology of cancer with a specific focus on breast cancer-related peer-reviewed research articles.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 6 times (maximum 7 enrollments).
Identical to:  BIOC 595G, CBA 595G, CBIO 595G, PCOL 595G.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 596A -- Molecular and Cellular Biology  (1 unit)
Description:  The development and exchange of scholarly information, usually in a small group setting. The scope of work shall consist of research by course registrants, with the exchange of the results of such research through discussion, reports, and/or papers. The development and exchange of scholarly information, usually in a small group setting. The scope of work shall consist of research by course registrants, with the exchange of the results of such research through discussion, reports, and/or papers.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  open to majors only.
May be repeated:  for credit 6 times (maximum 7 enrollments).
May be convened with:  MCB 496A.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 596I -- Molecular Cardiovascular Biology  (3 units)
Description:  The development and exchange of scholarly information, usually in a small group setting. The scope of work shall consist of research by course registrants, with the exchange of the results of such research through discussion, reports, and/or papers.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 2 times (maximum 3 enrollments).
Identical to:  SURG 596I; SURG is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 596J -- Frontiers in Medical Research  (1 unit)
Description:  Current translational medical research presented in a seminar format by a variety of faculty research teams consisting of a clinical physician scientist and a basic scientist. Focus is on current research, relevant issues, historical perspectives and personal experience. Graduate-level requirements include a one page summary for one of the seminars outlining recent discoveries and their clinical relevance.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 8 times (maximum 9 enrollments).
Identical to:  CBIO 596J; CBIO is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 496J.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 596M -- Exploring Life on the WWW: The Digital Dissemination of Biological Research  (3 units)
Description:  This course is designed for aspiring life scientists and science teachers. It will improve students' literacy in the areas of life science data management, information technology, and the effective exchange of scientific information across disciplines and professional cultures. Graduate-level requirements include an individual project and participation in a group project. Undergraduates will only have to participate in group projects.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  consent of instructor.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Identical to:  ENTO 596M; ENTO is home department.
May be convened with:  MCB 496M.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 597A -- Recombinant DNA Techniques  (2 units)
Description:  The practical application of theoretical learning within a group setting and involving an exchange of ideas and practical methods, skills, and principles.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  open to high school biology teachers only.
Identical to:  BIOC 597A; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Summer.

MCB 599 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work. Graduate students doing independent work which cannot be classified as actual research will register for credit under course number 599, 699, or 799.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 621 -- Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions  (3 units)
Description:  Molecular properties that control development of host, parasite, and symbiotic relationships. Contemporary molecular hypotheses are related to genetic and biochemical data available on disease resistance and pathogenesis.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 460.
Identical to:  PL P 621; PL P is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 628A -- Steroid & Lipoproteins: Structure, Metabolism & Funct., Relation to Hum. Disease  (3 units)
Description:  [Taught alternate odd-numbered years]. Biochemistry and metabolism of sterols and lipoproteins in mammalian systems; regulation of the biosynthesis and catabolism of sterols and lipoproteins in health and abnormalities related to disease; and dietary regulators of sterol and lipoprotein metabolism as relted to cardiovascular disease risk and prevention.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  BIOC 460 or BIOC 462A-BIOC 462B, N SC 602.
Identical to:  N SC 628A; N SC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 650 -- Algorithms for Computational Biology  (3 units)
Description:  Design and implementation of algorithms for computational problems in molecular biology. Topics include exact and approximate string matching, multiple sequence alignment,DNA sequence assembly, physical mapping of chromosomes, and genome rearrangement. No background in molecular biology is required.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  $15.
Prerequisite(s):  C SC 545 or consent of instructor.
Identical to:  C SC 650; C SC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 693 -- Internship  (1-6 units)
Description:  Specialized work on an individual basis, consisting of training and practice in actual service in a technical, business, or governmental establishment.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 2 times (maximum 3 enrollments).
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 695A -- Journal Club  (1 unit)
Description:  Enrolled students take turns selecting and leading the discussion on articles from the primary literature. Enrollment is open to students with interests in any of the three focus areas of the Dept. of Plant Sciences: Plant Biology, Genetics and Genomics; Horticultural and Crop Sciences; and Plant Pathology and Microbiology. Goals of the course include: fostering interaction among students with diverse interests and backgrounds, keeping abreast of current publications of broad interest, and providing a forum where free discussion is encouraged.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 4 units of credit.
Identical to:  PL P 695A; PL P is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MCB 695B -- Plant Pathology  (1 unit)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Identical to:  PL P 695B; PL P is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 695E -- Science, Society, and Ethics  (1 unit)
Description:  Practical colloquium focusing on ethical issues raised in the research laboratory setting.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Identical to:  CBA 695E, GENE 695E, NRSC 695E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 696A -- Laboratory Presentations and Discussion  (1-3 units)
Description:  Laboratory small group presentations and discussion.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 9 units of credit.
Identical to:  BIOC 696A; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 696C -- Informatic and Comparative Analysis of Genomes  (1-3 units)
Description:  This course provides hands-on experience in the manipulation and analysis of genomic data and teachers the steps in the preparation of writing of scientific manuscripts.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  ECOL 553.
Typical structure:  1 hour seminar, 3 hours laboratory, 1 hour discussion.
May be repeated:  for credit 3 times (maximum 4 enrollments).
Identical to:  BIOC 696C; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MCB 699 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work. Graduate students doing independent work which cannot be classified as actual research will register for credit under course number 599, 699, or 799.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 795A -- Introduction to Research  (1-6 units)
Description:  The exchange of scholarly information and/or secondary research, usually in a small group setting. Instruction often includes lectures by several different persons. Research projects may or may not be required of course registrants.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  open to MCB, CHEM, PHSC, and BIOC majors only.
May be repeated:  for a total of 10 units of credit.
Identical to:  BIOC 795A; BIOC is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MCB 900 -- Research  (1-8 units)
Description:  Individual research, not related to thesis or dissertation preparation, by graduate students.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E K.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 910 -- Thesis  (1-8 units)
Description:  Research for the master's thesis (whether library research, laboratory or field observation or research, artistic creation, or thesis writing). Maximum total credit permitted varies with the major department.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P E K.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 920 -- Dissertation  (1-9 units)
Description:  Research for the doctoral dissertation (whether library research, laboratory or field observation or research, artistic creation, or dissertation writing).
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P E K.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MCB 930 -- Supplementary Registration  (1-9 units)
Description:  For students who have completed all course requirements for their advanced degree programs. May be used concurrently with other enrollments to bring to total number of units to the required minimum.
Grading:  Grade of K is awarded for this course except for the final term.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.