Physiology and Chemistry: Premed (12 Units)

In this cluster, through coursework in Chemistry with its accompanying lab, math for the life sciences, and an exploration of human cell biology, students will build a solid foundation while working toward majors such as Neuroscience, Molecular & Cell Biology (MCB), and Integrative Biology. Along the way, they will also fulfill the Biological Science and Physical Science breadth requirements.

Course Details

  • CHEM 1A: General Chemistry, 3 Units. Stoichiometry of chemical reactions, quantum mechanical description of atoms, the elements and periodic table, chemical bonding, real and ideal gases, thermochemistry, introduction to thermodynamics and equilibrium, acid-base and solubility equilibria, introduction to oxidation-reduction reactions, introduction to chemical kinetics.

  • CHEM 1AL: General Chemistry Laboratory, 2 Units. An experimental approach to chemical sciences with emphasis on developing fundamental, reproducible laboratory technique and a goal of understanding and achieving precision and accuracy in laboratory experiments. Proper use of laboratory equipment and standard wet chemical methods are practiced. Areas of investigations include chemical equilibria, spectroscopy, nanotechnology, green chemistry, and thermochemistry. Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in 1A is required.

  • MATH 10A: Methods of Mathematics: Calculus, Statistics, and Combinatorics, 4 Units. The sequence Math 10A, Math 10B is intended for majors in the life sciences. Elementary combinatorics and discrete and continuous probability theory. Representation of data, statistical models and testing. Sequences and applications of linear algebra.

  • MCELLBI 32: Introduction to Human Physiology, 3 Units. A comprehensive introduction to human cell biology. The course will concentrate on basic mechanisms underlying human life processes, including cells and membranes; nerve and muscle function; cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and gastrointestinal physiology; metabolism, endocrinology, and reproduction.

Meeting Schedule

  • CHEM 1A: MWF 1:00-2:00 PM; Discussion T 9:00-10:00 AM
  • CHEM 1AL: M 10:00-11:00 AM; Discussion R 2:00-5:00 PM
  • MATH 10A: MWF 12:00-1:00 PM; Discussion MWF 1:00-2:00 PM
  • MCELLBI 32: TR 12:30-2:00 PM; Discussion M 2:00-3:00 PM

Major Prerequisites and L&S Breadth/General Requirements

Course Major Prereqs to Declare L&S Breadth/General Requirements  
CHEM 1A

Neuroscience
MCB
All EPS majors
IB

Physical Sciences L&S Breadth  
CHEM 1AL Neuroscience
MCB
All EPS majors
IB
N/A  
MATH 10A Cognitive Science
Psychology
Neuroscience
Chemistry
Environmental Earth Science 
Marine Science
IB
MCB
N/A  
MCELLBI 32  Psychology Biological Sciences L&S Breadth  

* = one of several classes that can satisfy requirement
+ = recommended, not required
^ = lower division requirement, not required for declaration

 

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