BIO 169 Introduction to Oceanography: Oceans and Human Health

This course examines the ocean as a dynamic Earth system and explores how biological, chemical, physical, and geological processes influence human health. Topics include marine bacteria and plankton, aquaculture, seawater chemistry and pH, pollutants such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals, ocean circulation, currents, and plate tectonics. Students consider how changing ocean conditions affect marine ecosystems, water quality, food systems, and the health of coastal and global communities.
This course counts for an Upper Division elective for all Biology majors/minors, Environmental Studies majors/minors, and Biochemistry major/minors.
Prerequisites: C- or above in either BIO 1, BIO 3, BIO 5, or BIO 67, or instructor approval

Credits

3

Distribution

BIO