Frequently Asked Questions

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 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. 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. 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. It also includes a laboratory component.

Course description for BIO 1511: Life Science
(This is a revised description that takes effect Jan 2007)

The course will cover the basic concepts of biology. These include: the cellular basis of life, metabolic processes, genetics, diversity, evolution and ecology, with human applications. This is a laboratory course intended for non-science majors. Course/lab fees.

Course description for BIO 1530: Introductory Biology: Molecular and Cellular
(This is a revised description that takes effect Jan 2007)

The course will cover the molecular and cellular basis of biological processes including metabolism, reproduction, genetics and evolution; along with relevant applications of biotechnology. This is a laboratory course intended for science majors. It is expected that students have successfully completed both high school biology and chemistry within the previous five years or the college equivalents. Course/lab fees.

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 most 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. BIO 2710 is a comprehensive, introductory microbiology course that includes a significant laboratory component.

Course Description for BIO 1570, Microbiology of Health and Disease:

Student will study the general nature and behavior of microbes as applied to human health and disease, including the dynamics of normal flora, the infectious process, microbes as causative agents of disease, host parasite relationships and development of immunity. Particular emphasis will be placed on the study of various modes of transmission and proper management to prevent spreading of infectious disease. It is expected that students have had high school biology and chemistry. This is a non-lab course.

Course Description for BIO 2710, Microbiology:

Prerequisites: Both BIO 1530 and CHE 1000 or higher (or equivalent college transfer course/s) with a "C" or better within the last 5 years or consent of department discipline designee.

The course concepts include microbial cell biology, microbial genetics, interactions and impact of microorganisms and humans, interactions and impact of microorganisms in the environment, and microbial diversity. Laboratory incorporates basic techniques and exercises to investigate course concepts. Course/lab fees.

Do I need to take introductory biology before I take BIO 1630, Human Anatomy & Physiology I?

The OCC catalog states that “It is expected that students have had high school biology and chemistry.” If the student has completed these courses recently with a good grade, he/she is typically prepared for A & P I. Instructors of A & P I assume that incoming students are familiar with basic concepts such as: cell biology, terminology, metabolism, mitosis/meiosis, DNA and protein synthesis. If you need to refresh or update your knowledge of these crucial topics we recommend taking BIO 1511 or BIO 1530. Either one of these courses provides an excellent foundation of biological processes and prepares students for the demanding coursework covered in Anatomy and Physiology I. Still wondering? Contact the instructor of the class.

Note: Effective Jan 2007 Bio 1630 will be Bio 2630