Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Biology Proficiency Test and do I need to take it for BIO 1570 or BIO 2630?

Starting in Summer 2010 if you are planning to enroll in BIO 1570 (Microbiology of Health and Disease) or BIO 2630 (Human Anatomy and Physiology I) you will need to know about the Biology Proficiency Test.

Course prerequisite: Beginning in Summer 2010, no OCC student may enroll into BIO 1570 or BIO 2630, unless she/he has met the prerequisite – “Satisfactory score on the OCC biology proficiency test or a grade of “C” or better in BIO 1511 or BIO 1530 (or equivalent college transfer course) within the last 5 years.”

Testing: The Biology Proficiency Test is computerized and will be administered beginning in 2010 in selected computer rooms at each campus. You may contact the Enrollment Services department, Counseling department, or Academic Support Center at each campus for more details. In order to take the test, you must bring a valid photo ID and know your OCC student ID.

The one-hour test is timed; upon its completion you will know your score and your next step. (ACCESS-eligible students will have two hours to complete the test.) The score, valid for five years, will place you in the appropriate course that will enhance your academic success. If you receive a score of 70% or higher on the proficiency test, you may enroll in BIO 1570 or BIO 2630. If you do not pass the test, then you should spend some time studying before you retake the test. You are allowed to take the proficiency test a total of two times. Failure to pass the test a second time means that you must enroll in BIO 1511 or BIO 1530.  Please consult a biology faculty member before enrolling in BIO 1530.

Exemptions:  Students are exempt from the Biology Proficiency Test if they meet any one of the following conditions:

● Students who have earned a “C” or higher in BIO 1570 and want to enroll into BIO 2630 or students who have earned a “C” or higher in BIO 2630 and want to enroll in BIO 1570.

● Students retaking BIO 1570 or BIO 2630 (e.g., for a better grade) who have earned a “C” or higher in the last five years.

● Students with score of “3” or better on the AP Biology exam.

● Students who have achieved a passing CLEP score on the SUBJECT exam in General Biology.

● Students who have earned a bachelor degree or higher from a U.S. institution or equivalent.

● Students admitted to OCC under a guest application from another college (NOTE: High school guest students are NOT eligible for a waiver).

Preparation for the test:  The test assesses your knowledge of high school biology and chemistry as well as your reading and problem solving skills. Click on the following links for study materials:  List of Test Topics and Practice Test.  These are also available at Counseling Services at each campus. In order to prepare for the test, it is strongly recommended that you review corresponding chapters in biology textbooks placed on reserve at each OCC library. Additional resources include books such as Get Ready for Anatomy and Get Ready for Microbiology (www.pearsonhighered.com).

What is the difference between BIO 1511, Life Science and BIO 1530, Introductory Biology: Molecular and Cellular?

BIO 1511 is an introductory biology course primarily for students who have not taken biology recently and/or are not majoring in the sciences. This course covers a wide range of biological topics. This course may fulfill the laboratory science requirement for non-science majors.  BIO 1530 is an introductory biology course primarily for students who are majoring in science or some health science programs. This course is more advanced than BIO 1511. It provides an in-depth focus of the molecular and cellular processes of biology. Both courses include a laboratory component.  If you are continuing on in a health-science field an introductory biology course may be necessary. Check with your degree program to determine the appropriate course to take: BIO 1511 or BIO 1530. Course descriptions:  BIO 1511 and BIO 1530.

What is the difference between BIO 1570, Microbiology of Health and Disease, and BIO 2710, Microbiology?

BIO 1570 does not have a laboratory component. This course meets the current requirements of the OCC Nursing Program but does not meet the requirements of many other nursing programs in Michigan. If you are interested in becoming a nurse, make sure that you check the degree requirements of the programs that interest you. BIO 2710 will meet the requirements for microbiology at most other nursing schools and transfers as an introductory course to biology programs at other schools.   BIO 2710 is a comprehensive, introductory microbiology course that includes a significant laboratory component.  Course descriptions:  BIO 1570 a BIO 2710.