Course Finder

The purpose of this course is to provide additional assistance to nursing students, enrolled in Santa Monica College Nursing Program, in order to facilitate understanding the core concepts taught in the courses in the nursing curriculum. The course will assist the student in being able to determine their comprehension of the content taught in the nursing course (s) and facilitate the transfer of nursing concepts. A stimulating learning environment will be created for active communication and interaction among students and instructor. The learning environment will provide an opportunity for students to verbalize their thinking, understanding of underlying pathophysiology and its relevance to the therapeutic regime and therapeutic nursing interventions. Consistent attendance and participation are essential to the effectiveness of the supervised tutoring sessions.

This course introduces students to the professional field of occupational therapy (OT). It explores the philosophy and practice of occupational therapy (helping people with disabilities regain independence). It defines occupational therapy within a continuum of health care, delineates OT professional levels, describes practice settings, ethics, education and training requirements, and current practice trends.

Formerly OIS 1. OFTECH 1 is equivalent to the OFTECH 1A, OFTECH 1B, and OFTECH 1C sequence.

This course is designed to teach keyboard mastery by touch, improve speed and accuracy, and use Microsoft Word to create and revise business documents. Proofreading skill development is also included.

This course uses Microsoft Word 2016 in the PC (windows) environment.

Formerly OIS 1A.

This course is intended for students without previous keyboarding instruction. Emphasis is on keyboard mastery, correct keyboarding techniques, and proofreading skills.

• Advisory: OFTECH 1A.

Formerly OIS 1B.

Students develop speed and accuracy. Emphasis is on using Microsoft Word to produce letters, memos, tables, and reports.

• Advisory: OFTECH 1B.

Formerly OIS 1C.

Course content includes keyboard mastery by touch, correct keyboarding techniques, and proper formatting of letters, memos, reports, tables, and other kinds of personal and business communications.

Formerly OIS 5.

This course is designed to review principles of grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and number format; improve vocabulary and spelling; and develop proofreading and editing skills. Word Processing software is used to create and revise business documents.

Formerly OIS 9.

This course emphasizes speed and accuracy development, keyboarding technique, and proofreading skills.

• Advisory: OFTECH 1, 1C or keyboarding skills of 35 words per minute.

Computers are used in all work environments. To function efficiently, computer users must be able to input data on a computer keyboard quickly and accurately. This course is designed to develop the computer keyboarding skills that are required to function in the workplace.

This course is designed to develop medical vocabulary skills. Topics include word parts (roots, combining forms, prefixes, and suffixes), body structure, major body systems, and pharmacology. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) guidelines and Internet research tools are also discussed.

This is a beginning course in operating transcribing machines to produce medical documents. Students learn to transcribe, proofread, and edit a variety of medical documents, including chart notes, history and physical reports, consultations, office procedure notes, and X-ray reports. Emphasis is on vocabulary development related to major body systems, formatting, and language skills.

• Advisory: OFTECH 21.

This is an advanced course in medical terms and transcription. Organized by medical specialty, reports and records transcribed include history and physical examination, operative, pathology, radiology, discharge summary, consultation, and progress notes. Emphasis is on refining transcription skills and developing a more extensive medical vocabulary. The use of medical references is also discussed.

The course introduces the basics of medical insurance billing and current payment methodologies in hospital and physician office settings. Students use MediSoft, a popular medical billing accounting software program, to enter patient and case information, schedule appointments, process transactions, and produce reports and patient statements.

Coding is defined as the translation of procedures, services, and supplies into numeric and/or alphanumeric components for statistical reporting and reimbursement purposes. This course introduces students to CPT, CPT Modifiers, and HCPCS coding procedures.

This course will cover ICD-10.

Students develop skills in applying ICD-10-CM Codes to the following specialty areas: Introduction to Coding, An overview of the ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-CM Coding Conventions, Steps in Diagnostic Code Selection, Diagnostic Coding Guidelines, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Neoplasms, Diseases of the Blood and Blood Forming Organs, Endocrine, Nutritional, and Metabolic Diseases, Mental and Behavioral Disorders, Diseases of the Nervous System, Disorders of the Eye and Adnexa, Diseases of the Ear and Mastoid Process, Diseases of the Circulatory System, Diseases of the Respiratory System, Diseases of the Digestive System, Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue, Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue. Emphasis of this course is to analyze medical records case scenarios and to abstract accurate diagnostic conditions of the human body.

This course covers ICD-10.

• Advisory: OFTECH 25.

This course develops further skills in medical coding/billing. Students apply and evaluate expert level knowledge and experience in abstracting information from the medical records for diagnostic, (ICD-10-CM) and inpatient procedural medical codes, (ICD-10-PCS). Students abstract ICD-10-PCS for a variety of specialty areas such as General Surgery, Radiology, Pathology/Laboratory, Obstetrics, Placement, Administration, Measuring and Monitoring, Imaging, Nuclear Medicine, Radiation, Oncology, Rehabilitation Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and New Technology Sections. Emphasis of this course is to interpret and apply accurate diagnostic conditions to inpatient hospital-based coding, filing health insurance claim forms, billing, collection, and payment procedures.

This course emphasizes essential administrative and clerical skills required to function in a health care environment. Topics of study include records management; insurance, coding, and finance terminology; billing, reimbursement, and collections; telephone and scheduling procedures; medical ethics, law, and compliance; computer usage in the medical office; written communications; and intercultural communications. Students are introduced to electronic billing and scheduling using Medisoft. Health care careers are also discussed.

• Advisory: OFTECH 20.

This course discusses terminology, concepts, and procedures related to electronic health records and provides hands-on applications. Topics of study include advantages, core functions, data sources, workflow, coding standards, and privacy and security regulations of an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. Students use EHR software to input patient data, create patient records, document office visits, order prescriptions and lab tests, and perform other tasks involved in patient care and management.

• Advisory: OFTECH 1, or OFTECH 1C, or 35 wpm.

This course is designed to prepare students to perform common tasks required of law office administrative assistants. Topics of study include the law office environment; clerical and administrative duties; computers and office systems; court structure; litigation procedures; substantive law (litigation; family; wills, trusts, and probate; business organization; real estate; and criminal) and legal research. Emphasis is on terminology, procedures, and document preparation.

• Prerequisite: OFTECH 1, or OFTECH 1C, or 35 wpm.

This course is designed to develop skill in using transcription equipment to produce dictated legal documents. Students will use word processing software in the production of documents. Emphasis is on legal terminology; document formatting; proofreading skill development. Areas of study include court systems, civil court documents, litigation, family law, probate, business law, real estate law, and criminal law.

This course introduces students to records and information management. The entire range of records (physical, image, and electronic media) is discussed. Topics of study include alphabetic filing rules, as well as alphabetic, subject, numeric, and geographic storage, retrieval, and transferring systems. The alphabetic filing rules presented are consistent with ARMA (Association of Records Managers and Administrators) guidelines. Also included are an introduction to electronic records management principles and procedures and legal concerns related to records management. Microsoft Access is used to practice electronic records activities.

Please see “Internships” section.

IGETC Foreign Language (required for UC only)

Satisfies Global Citizenship

This course introduces basic vocabulary and the fundamentals of modern Persian grammar, structure, and pronunciation as well as reading, writing, and speaking. This course prepares students to hold simple conversations in Persian and write short descriptive compositions. Aspects of Persian culture, history, and geography are covered as well. Students will review multi-media materials (audio and video).

IGETC AREA 3B (Arts and Humanities), Foreign Language (required for UC only)

Satisfies Global Citizenship

• Advisory: PERSIN 1*.

In this course, students are expected to utilize the knowledge of Persian in Persian 1 to expand their vocabulary and familiarize themselves with various forms of the language. In addition to preparing students for further language acquisition, this course also acquaints students with important elements of the literature and cultures of the Persian-speaking world.

*The advisory for this course is comparable to two years of high school Persian.

• Corequisite: Any course in Persian.

This course — taken in tandem with another course in the discipline — enables a student to apply course content in a meaningful and relevant way to a particular activity. In this hands-on course, students engage in applied learning through unpaid experiential activities organized by the student (in conjunction with SMC’s applied/service learning center) and approved by the instructor. Students will develop a customized reading list relevant to their particular activity, complete a minimum of 15 hours of volunteer work with that activity, and submit academically-sound written reports regarding the activity. By applying course material to their experience, students develop a deeper understanding of the discipline.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course introduces students to the analysis of various metaphysical and epistemological questions and problems in philosophy, typically including, the nature and limits of knowledge, the existence of God, the Mind-Body Problem, the Freedom vs. Determination debate, and the Absolutism vs. Relativism debate. Related topics in ethics may also be included.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course provides an introduction to the nature of ethical theory (moral philosophy), an analysis of significant ethical theories, and an exploration of the problems encountered in the continuing quest for a satisfactory ethical theory for contemporary society. Some of the main topics in normative ethics and meta-ethics are covered.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course will acquaint the student with some of the ancient Greek contributions to the Western philosophical and scientific tradition and examine a broad range of central philosophical themes concerning: nature, law, justice, knowledge, virtue, happiness, and death. There will be a strong emphasis on analyses of arguments found in the primary texts.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This study of the principal philosophical developments since the Renaissance emphasizes the relation of philosophy to the growth of science and social and cultural changes in the modern period.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course is a philosophic examination of major ethical debates in contemporary American society. Topics may include capital punishment, abortion, euthanasia, racial and sexual equality, affirmative action, sexual morality, pornography, “victimless crimes,” bio-medical research, animal rights, and environmental issues. Preparatory to those investigations, time is devoted to studying some of the most important moral theories and various types of moral reasoning.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course is a general introduction to the philosophy of science, aimed at fostering an enhanced awareness of the philosophical aspects and implications inherent in the scientific enterprise. The central concepts and methodology of science will be analyzed, and philosophical topics like distinguishing science from pseudoscience, virtues of explanations including simplicity and falsifiability, gestalt and paradigm shifts, incommensurability, underdetermination, objectivity and subjectivity, realism and anti-realism, bias within science and more will be examined. Specific episodes taken from the history of science will be regularly employed to illustrate and elucidate these general ideas. A background in philosophy or the physical sciences is helpful but not a requirement for this course.

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

A course in general logic emphasizing its applications to practical situations. The course covers both inductive and deductive techniques.

This is a beginning course in modern logic covering symbolic notation and translations, and decision procedures for validity and invalidity of arguments in sentential logic and predicate logic.

IGETC AREA 3B (Arts and Humanities)

This is an introduction to moral philosophy as applied to a range of normative issues raised by contemporary biology and medicine. The course introduces the main moral theories and strategies for moral decision-making, and such topics as assisted or alternative reproduction, abortion, circumcision and female genital cutting, cloning and genetic engineering, overpopulation, suicide, euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide, animal and human experimentation, research, practitioner-patient relationships, and allocation of scarce medical resources.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

An introductory-level survey of some of the philosophical questions that arise from contemplation of art and the artistic process. The main theories of art and beauty will be interpreted and evaluated with respect to the relevance each has for contemporary society. Principles and theories concerning art and beauty will be applied to various works of contemporary art in the major fields. The significance of aesthetic experience and its relevance to life will be examined. The role of the artist and the artist’s intention in the creative process will also be analyzed.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

Satisfies Global Citizenship

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course introduces the field of environmental ethics with an emphasis on global environmental problems and global citizenship. The conceptual foundations of environmental attitudes and values are examined through an historical survey of philosophies of nature and human/nature relations. Ethical theories are presented and used to analyze contemporary environmental problems, e.g. mistreatment of animals, pollution, climate change, species extinction, natural resource depletion, environmental racism etc. The ethical assumptions underlying various national and international responses to environmental problems will be analyzed and evaluated.

PHILOS 20 is the same course as ENVRN 20. Students may earn credit for one but not both.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

The cultural settings and basic concepts of the major philosophical and religious systems of India, China, and Japan are studied. Rituals and literature are used to compare and contrast Asian and non-Asian belief systems.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This is an introduction to several traditional philosophical problems connected with religious belief. Among the issues to be discussed are the existence and nature of God, the problem of evil, mysticism, the rationality of religious belief, and the relationship between reason and revelation.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

A philosophical inquiry into themes such as knowledge, truth, justice, freedom, responsibility, love, technology, punishment, self-deception, death, religious faith, and the meaning of life through the examination of selected literary works (novels, short stories, plays, poetry). The course will also focus on certain philosophical issues relevant to the philosophy of literature (ie, how humans emotionally relate to fictional characters, interpretation and artistic intention in literary art, how literature is to be defined, the status of truth in literature).

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course is designed to enable the interested student to study in depth selected philosophical problems in the areas of epistemology, metaphysics, and value theory. Primary source materials are analyzed and discussed in a seminar atmosphere. Oral and written reports are assigned. Philosophy majors are encouraged to take the course; non-majors are also eligible.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities) or 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

Formerly same course as HIST 48.

An examination of the causes of war and violence in world history and the various organized efforts to maintain peace and end wars. Nonviolent resistance movements will be emphasized.

IGETC AREA Area 3B (Humanities) or Area 4 (Social & Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

In this inter-disciplinary course students examine fundamental ideas about politics in the writings of major Western philosophers from the ancient to the contemporary period, and use those ideas to consider and debate current political issues.

PHILOS 51 is the same course as POL SC 51. Students may earn credit for one, but not both.

IGETC AREA Area 3B (Humanities) or Area 4 (Social & Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This interdisciplinary course in philosophy and political science examines arguments and discourses developed within contemporary political thought. How those discourses critique and/or are rooted in modern ideologies, such as liberalism and socialism will be considered. The theoretical perspectives presented in the course will be used to critically examine important issues in contemporary politics. Students will situate themselves as citizens and political agents in relation to those issues.

PHILOS 52 is the same course as POL SC 52. Students may earn credit for one, but not both.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

• Corequisite: Any course in Philosophy.

This course — taken in tandem with another course in the discipline — enables a student to apply course content in a meaningful and relevant way to a particular activity. In this hands-on course, students engage in applied learning through unpaid experiential activities organized by the student (in conjunction with SMC’s applied/service learning center) and approved by the instructor. Students will develop a customized reading list relevant to their particular activity, complete a minimum of 15 hours of volunteer work with that activity, and submit academically-sound written reports regarding the activity. By applying course material to their experience, students develop a deeper understanding of the discipline.

This non-laboratory course is an introduction to photography including camera techniques and creative considerations. Using the HDSLR camera format and natural light, students shoot digitally for specific assignments emphasizing exposure, depth-of-field, motion, composition, and image quality. A 35mm Digital Single Lens Reflex camera with manual focus lens and exposure capabilities is required.

• Advisory: PHOTO 1.

This introductory lab course prepares students for general specialization in photography. Black and white film exposure, development, and printing techniques are examined. Various shooting and printing assignments explore a variety of natural light situations and shooting challenges. Weekly lectures support practical application of assignments. Required for photography majors.

• Advisory: PHOTO 1.

An introduction to digital camera exposure methods in various lighting conditions, image processing, basic color theory, color management, and various digital output techniques for both color and black & white imagery. Students are required to use outside commercial lab services and must furnish an approved digital camera with removable lenses (DSLR) which is capable of capturing in the Camera Raw format. A knowledge of basic computer functions is essential.

This class provides the advanced commercial student with the opportunity to develop work to a professional level under the supervision of a faculty adviser on a one-to-one basis. Study facilities as well as color and black and white laboratory privileges are available to the student in support of this portfolio work. Assignments are designed by the student with instructor approval. Admission by interview only.

• Advisory: PHOTO 1.

This survey course in basic news photography is designed for journalism or photography majors and students interested in having work published in magazines and news publications. Students learn basic camera and storytelling techniques through individual assignments and a semester long project, along with photo composition, and picture layout principles. A Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera with manual exposure capability is required.

PHOTO 13 is the same course as JOURN 21. Students may earn credit for one, but not both.

• Advisory: JOURN 21 or PHOTO 13.

This advanced course provides an in-depth study of photojournalism with an emphasis on creation of photo story ideas, photo essays, news, sports and feature photos for publication. Photo editing and layout for newspapers, magazines, and online publishing will be covered. Students will comprise the staff of the campus newspaper, The Corsair, and online publications. This course may be repeated once for credit. A Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera with manual exposure capability is required.

PHOTO 14 is the same course as JOURN 22. Students may receive credit for one, but not both.

• Advisory: PHOTO 2.

Introduction into non-traditional and historical photographic processes. Emphasis is placed primarily on non-silver techniques and processes, including the making of enlarged negatives. Processes may include cyanotype, Van Dyke, platinum/palladium and others

• Advisory: PHOTO 5 and PHOTO 30.

This class is designed to provide the intermediate photography student with the skill set to produce high definition digital video content at industry standards. This course covers common preproduction methods, HD DSLR Camera techniques, lighting for video, recording sound and video and sound editing. Hands-on practical technique is covered in conjunction with theory and concept.

• Prerequisite/Corequisite: PHOTO 5.
• Advisory: PHOTO 1 (concurrent enrollment allowed).

In this class students will acquire a solid foundation of in lighting tools and the practical application of lighting. Students will learn the proper selection and effective use of a light source whether photographing a portrait, a still life or any type of location photography.

• Prerequisite: PHOTO 30 and PHOTO 39 (Concurrent enrollment in 39 is permitted).

In this class, students will be exposed to common approaches for photographing people. Topics are practical in nature and will include lighting methods for individuals and groups both in the studio and on location. The use of various flash systems and their modifiers, augmenting existing light, posing subjects, wardrobe decisions, hair & make up, and more will be addressed. Assignments and lessons will emphasize common genres including, but not limited to, weddings, corporate portraits, family portraits, and headshots.

• Prerequisite: PHOTO 30.

Photo 32 is an advanced course that builds on skills learned in Photo 30 and focuses on techniques for photographing people in commercial settings. Assignments are designed to enhance creativity while utilizing advanced commercial lighting techniques for photographing people. Lectures and demonstrations will cover both studio and location lighting, and are geared toward commercial considerations for photographing people.

• Prerequisite: PHOTO 30 and PHOTO 39 (Concurrent enrollment in 39 is permitted).

In this course, students are challenged with lighting applications for a broad range of product and still life photography for use in a variety of commercial markets. Students research and apply current photographic styles while creating a portfolio of images that are applicable to a successful career in commercial photography.

• Prerequisite: PHOTO 30 and PHOTO 39.

This is a Photoshop and studio photography course that trains students on the commercial-level techniques that combine multiple images into one image suitable for commercial publication. Students will learn various lighting techniques while learning to combine multiple images, and work toward final composites comparable to a professional level of output. This course will prepare students for career requirements through development of suitable images for their portfolio, as well as familiarization with currently utilized retouching tests. These skills also apply to photographers who want to take their own images to a professional level without having to hire a digital artist.

• Advisory: PHOTO 2.

Students will learn the zone system control of exposure and development of films, basic sensitometry, advanced printing techniques including bleaching and toning, use of multiple contrast filters, and archival preservation techniques.

• Prerequisite: PHOTO 5.

This course is an introduction to digital imaging for photography majors using Adobe Photoshop. Students will learn how to manipulate, make selections and enhance digital images, including retouching for output to a variety of media.

• Advisory: PHOTO 30 and PHOTO 39.

Utilizing 35mm HDSLR and medium format cameras, the content of this course reflects current professional capture and output techniques used in commercial photography. Curriculum covers extensive testing of cameras, monitors, and inkjet printers in order to create a consistent, closed loop workflow.

• Prerequisite: PHOTO 39.

This course covers advanced level digital image manipulation on the computer using Adobe Photoshop. Students will continue to explore more complex features of Photoshop, and learn industry standards for preparing professional imagery for commercial clients.

• Prerequisite: PHOTO 31 or PHOTO 32, PHOTO 33, and PHOTO 39.

This course addresses the process of building a photographic portfolio that meets current professional industry standards for presenting work to potential employers and clients. Emphasis is placed on developing a personal style that displays a comprehensive understanding of photographic methods, genres, and presentation.

• Advisory: PHOTO 2.

This course provides an introduction to color printing from negative materials. Students will produce “C” prints from a variety of color films using Dichromic enlargers, Ektaprint chemistry, and a roller transport machine processor. Simple problems, such as color balance, exposure choices, paper surfaces, and enlargement are addressed.

IGETC AREA 3A (Arts)

This is a historical survey of the evolving nature of photography from the early 1800’s to the present digital age.

PHOTO 52 is the same course as AHIS 52. Students may earn credit for one, but not both.

This lecture course examines the necessary steps that a photographer must take to start a commercial photography business. Relevant local, state and federal regulatory and taxing agencies and application forms, professional support services, general ledger accounts setup pertinent to photography, photographic business insurance needs, and employer obligations are discussed. Students will learn how to create a simple business plan applicable to photographic ventures. The course also examines issues of sound financial practices specific to profitability in commercial photography, paying particular attention to matters of copyright and image licensing, calculating cost of doing business, strategies for pricing image usage, and negotiating job fees.

• Advisory: PHOTO 2.

This course explores the genre of documentary photography while focusing on various communities in the Los Angeles area. Students will create an in-depth project and present a portfolio of photographs documenting the unique characteristics of individual communities in Los Angeles. Each semester will offer a unifying, rotating topic that may focus on specific neighborhoods, subcultures, or other appropriate themes. Lectures focus on historical photographic references and contemporary social issues. The importance and power of documentary photography are discussed and historical examples that have inspired change or shaped our perception of communities are explored. Students utilize large format cameras and film (in addition to their own digital cameras) as a way of better understanding historical processes in photography and nurturing a respect for the medium’s alternative, non-commercial side.

• Advisory: PHOTO 1 and PHOTO 5.

This is a beginning video course that is designed to give students a basic understanding of camera operations towards HD DSLR or mirrorless video capturing techniques. Students will record videos using natural light for specific assignments emphasizing creative storytelling and expression. Beginning assignments will focus on cinematic composition, aspect ratio, camera movement, framing, lighting, camera angles, and introductory audio capture techniques. The assignments then progress into more creative, personal storytelling projects.

• Advisory: PHOTO 1 and PHOTO 5.

Through a hands-on approach, this course is designed to give each student a gateway to the art of video editing and post-production techniques. This course explores the technical and conceptual styles of editing a story together though audio and motion footage. Topics include project approach, pacing, budget, file formats and exports, all while capturing the emotions of the viewer through storytelling.

• Advisory: PHOTO 30 and PHOTO 70.

This creative project-based course explores the basic principles of incorporating video content creation into a commercial photography career. Students will work with natural lighting, audio capture, video capture, editing, and export techniques to make their creative visions come to life. Assignments and lectures are informed by industry-specific client expectations and market demands, in order to prepare students for an exciting career that blends photography and video production.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

Please see “Internships” section.

Please see “Internships” section.

Please see “Internships” section.

Please see “Internships” section.

• Advisory: PV 11.

This course is designed for students interested in a career in the photovoltaics (PV) industry. The fundamental principles of selling PV systems will be covered as well as the activities that support sales such as PV system design and engineering. The course will cover marketing, customer relations, technical and cost proposal development, and working with authorities having jurisdiction over the installation and interconnection of PV systems.

In this course, students gain a basic understanding of the principles of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and renewable energy alternatives. Basic electrical theory, the variables of PV system design, and sizing of PV systems are introduced. Topics include the scientific and math principles, physical properties, system components, codes, cell efficiency, and safe installation procedures for prevalent technologies. Students examine the cost and paybacks influencing adoption of solar technologies, as well as its potential in solving energy and environmental problems.

• Prerequisite: PV 11.

This course examines the theoretical and technical dimensions of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in detail. Students learn advanced principles of electricity and how they apply to PV systems. They review PV system sizing and design, components and equipment. Detailed discussions on product troubleshooting, net metering laws, local codes, and National Electrical Code (NEC) PV requirements are covered. Successful participants will be qualified to take the North America Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Entry Level exam.

C-ID: PHYS 105.

IGETC AREA 5A (Physical Sciences, + LAB)

• Prerequisite: MATH 2 or (MATH 3 and 4).

This course is an algebra- and trigonometry-based study of classical mechanics, including elastic properties of matter and thermodynamics.

IGETC AREA 5A (Physical Sciences, + LAB)

• Prerequisite: PHYSCS 6.

This course is an algebra- and trigonometry-based study of electricity and magnetism, geometrical and wave optics, and some special relativity and quantum physics.

IGETC AREA 5A (Physical Sciences, + LAB)

• Prerequisite: MATH 7.

This course is a calculus-based study of the mechanics of solids and liquids, elastic properties of matter, heat, and wave motion.

IGETC AREA 5A (Physical Sciences, + LAB)

• Prerequisite: PHYSCS 8.

This course is a calculus-based study of electricity and magnetism, geometrical and physical optics, special relativity, and quantum physics.

IGETC AREA 5A (Physical Sciences, non-lab)

Physics 12 is designed for the student who is interested in a more conceptual and less mathematical approach to physics. It is a survey course introducing the topics of mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, light and modern physics. The emphasis will be on developing conceptual understanding of the laws of nature through lectures, demonstrations, and class discussions. High school math recommended.

IGETC AREA 5A (Physical Science, + LAB)

Physics 14 is recommended for students who have not had high school physics but are planning to take Physics.

This course is similar to Physics 12 in content and difficulty level, but with a laboratory session added to enhance the learning experience. Physics 14 is designed for the student who is interested in a more conceptual and less mathematical approach to physics. It is a one semester survey course introducing the topics of mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, light and modern physics. The emphasis will be on developing conceptual understanding of the laws of nature through hands-on experiences, laboratory experiments, and computer interactions, in addition to lectures and demonstrations. Maximum credit for Physics 12 and 14 combined is 4 units. High school math recommended.

• Advisory: MATH 2 or (MATH 3 and 4).

This course serves as a preparation for calculus-based physics. It serves as an introduction to classical mechanics, including concepts and principles pertinent to the mechanics of solids. It also prepares students for handling data and analysis at the level required in Physics 8 and 21.

C-ID: PHYS 205.

IGETC AREA 5A (Physical Sciences, + Lab)

• Prerequisite: MATH 7.

Formerly PHYSCS 1.

This course is a calculus-based study of the mechanics of rigid bodies, emphasizing Newton’s laws and its applications. This course includes an introduction to fluids. It is designed for engineering, physical science, and computer science majors.

C-ID: PHYS 210.

IGETC Area 5A (Physical Science, + LAB)

• Prerequisite: MATH 8, PHYSCS 21.

Formerly PHYSCS 3.

This course is a calculus-based study of electromagnetism covering aspects of electric and magnetic fields, DC and AC circuits, electromagnetic interactions, light, and relativity. The course is intended for engineering and physical science students.

C-ID: PHYS 215.

IGETC AREA 5A (Physical Sciences, + LAB)

• Prerequisite: MATH 8, PHYSCS 21.

Formerly PHYSCS 2.

This course is a calculus-based study of fluids, waves, thermodynamics, and light intended for engineering and physical science students.

• Prerequisite: PHYSCS 21 and MATH 8.
• Advisory: PHYSCS 22 and PHYSCS 23.

This course is a calculus-based introduction to modern physics for engineering and physical science students. Topics will be selected from the areas of relativity and quantum physics that include applications to atoms, molecules, solids, and nuclei.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

C-ID: POLS 110.

+ satisfies CSU Constitution and American Ideals graduation requirement

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course surveys and analyzes the principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments. Students will use course concepts to situate themselves as citizens and political agents.

C-ID: POLS 130.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course surveys the scope and methods of comparative political analysis. It examines democratic, authoritarian, and transitional political systems to illustrate the central theories and ideas in comparative politics. It compares the political structures, processes, and cultures of countries at different levels of economic and social development in several world regions (e.g. Central and Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Central, South and East Asia, and Western and Central Europe).

IGETC Area 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

Course focuses on the nature and study of politics, from both a historical and contemporary perspective. Students explore the methods and approaches used in the field of Political Science to analyze a variety of political concepts and problems, including the nature and distribution of power, justice, citizenship, sustainability, leadership and agency.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

Satisfies Global Citizenship

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course offers an interdisciplinary introduction to the fields of Global Studies and International Political Economy. Students will analyze critically the role of national governments, international organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and multinational corporations, in regard to phenomena such as, international markets and production regimes, monetary and trade policy, international and global conflict, and environmental degradation. Contending theoretical and ideological perspectives regarding international systems, processes, and trends will be applied and evaluated.

POL SC 5 is the same course as ECON 5 and GLOBAL 5. Students may earn credit for one course.

C-ID: POLS 140.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course examines the structure and operation of the international system. Emphasis is placed on the nature and sources of conflict and cooperation and issues of war and peace among states in the international system.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course concentrates on the political and social history of East Asia in the 20th century. The following subjects are studied: major movements of social and political change; revolution; the pattern of political culture and power; the pattern of foreign and domestic policy; and the relationship of East Asia to the Western World.

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

Approved internship must be arranged prior to enrollment.

This course is designed to afford student interns the opportunity to earn academic credit for their public service intern experience. The practical experience will include observation of and actual participation in the work of a national, state, or local legislative or executive government agency. Formal academic credit is required by most of the government agencies and officials as a condition of their participation in our internship program. Academic credit is based on a written report or research paper relating to the internship experience of the student and an oral examination.

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

POL SC 12, Model United Nations, is a companion course to POL SC 11.

This course examines global conflict and cooperation since World War II, with special emphasis on the United Nations and related organizations. Arms proliferation and control, regional conflicts, world social and economic cooperation, and governmental and nongovernmental efforts to promote peace and security are examined.

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course should be taken concurrently with or subsequent to POL SC 11. Additional fees are required and any costs associated with travel, room and board will be the responsibility of students. Consultation with the instructor is recommended prior to enrollment.

Students will participate in local, state, or national Model United Nations, and will research country positions, policy issues, United Nation rules of debate and parliamentary procedure, diplomacy negotiation, and techniques of conflict resolution.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This comparative study of the government and politics of the Middle Eastern states gives emphasis to the study of the relationship between political development, political organization, and social structure.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

Satisfies Global Citizenship

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

The social construction of race and ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation in American society and their relationship to local, state, and national government is covered. Of particular concern are problems of assimilation and integration into the political system, the politics of exclusion, discrimination, voting behavior and pressure group politics, ideology, resistance and political action, the social construction of race and racism, the poor and the culture of poverty, political problems of the aged, the young, women, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people. This course satisfies the SMC requirement for American Cultures.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

Satisfies Global Citizenship

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course examines environmental politics. The political, economic, and social origins of environmental change and degradation are examined, as well as democratic, bureaucratic and market-based solutions to environmental problems advocated by environmental movements, interest groups and political parties. Arguments for best public policy responses to a range of environmental problems will be assessed and debated. The course offers a practical problem-solving approach focusing primarily on the relations between a range of contemporary political values and on what it means to take political responsibility for reducing the human impact on the earth.

POL SC 22 is the same course as ENVRN 22. Students may earn credit for one, but not both.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This interdisciplinary course critically explores the politics of gender and sexuality in contemporary societies. The course considers materials from political theory, philosophy, the study of women, the study of masculinity, and queer studies as it examines the role of gender, gender based social movements, and sexual politics in political and social life and in contemporary political affairs.

IGETC Area 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course is an introduction to the legal concepts and contemporary legal conflicts in the United States, including the philosophical and historical basis for resolution of conflict. Historical and contemporary conflicts in the areas of civil liberties and civil rights, as well as other current legal conflicts and controversies are addressed. This course satisfies a requirement for the Law Pathway program.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social and Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This course is an introduction to public policy. The course covers core topics in American public policy and focuses on institutions, policy actors, and major theoretical models. In addition, the course covers the nature and practice of policy analysis in order to demonstrate how to employ evaluative criteria in substantive policy areas.

IGETC AREA 4 (Social & Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This seminar in international politics features analysis and discussion of the international system. Patterns of cooperation and conflict between states, alliance systems, security issues and the international economy are among the topics on which students will write papers. Seminar sessions are characterized by discussion, oral reports and critical analysis of papers, articles and books. Consultation with the instructor is encouraged before enrolling.

C-ID: POLS 120.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities) or AREA 4 (Social & Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

In this inter-disciplinary course students examine fundamental ideas about politics in the writings of major Western philosophers from the ancient to the contemporary period, and use those ideas to consider and debate current political issues.

POL SC 51 is the same course as PHILOS 51. Students may earn credit for one, but not both.

IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities) or AREA 4 (Social & Behavioral Sciences)

• Advisory: Eligibility for English 1.

This interdisciplinary course in philosophy and political science examines arguments and discourses developed within contemporary political thought. How those discourses critique and/or are rooted in modern ideologies, such as liberalism and socialism will be considered. The theoretical perspectives presented in the course will be used to critically examine important issues in contemporary politics. Students will situate themselves as citizens and political agents in relation to those issues.

POL SC 52 is the same course as PHILOS 52. Students may earn credit for one, but not both.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

• Advisory: BUS 5 or POL SC 24.

This course is a practicum in the legal profession and provides students with experience in the legal field. Students engage in applied learning through unpaid experiential activities organized by SMC’s applied/service learning center (in conjunction with the student and the instructor). Experiential learning will take place in private firms, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations that have a direct connection to the American legal system. Students will complete a minimum of 30 hours of work at their placement, develop a customized reading list relevant to their particular placement (i.e., a student placed with a labor lawyer would develop a reading list specific to labor law), and submit academically-sound written reports regarding the work done at their placement. Through this experiential learning opportunity, students develop a deeper understanding of the discipline and the profession.

This course is graded on a P/NP basis only.

• Advisory: POL SC 31 and eligibility for English 1.

This course builds upon the content of Political Science 31, Introduction to Public Policy, to provide the student with field experience in the discipline. This course addresses the theoretical underpinnings of democratic civic engagement and is a practicum in public policy in a local setting. In this hands-on course, the student will engage in experiential learning through various governmental and nongovernmental agencies which have a role in developing and/or implementing public policy. The student will develop a reading list, customized to the focus of his/her particular agency, and complete a minimum of 30 hours of volunteer work with that agency. The course exposes the student to organized, meaningful public policy research and implementation in substantive policy arenas and will be supervised in his/her off-campus experiential learning project pertaining to the development of public policy.

This course is graded on a P/NP basis only.

• Corequisite: Any course in Political Science.

This course — taken in tandem with another course in the discipline — enables a student to apply course content in a meaningful and relevant way to a particular activity. In this hands-on course, students engage in applied learning through unpaid experiential activities organized by the student (in conjunction with SMC’s applied/service learning center) and approved by the instructor. Students will develop a customized reading list relevant to their particular activity, complete a minimum of 15 hours of volunteer work with that activity, and submit academically-sound written reports regarding the activity. By applying course material to their experience, students develop a deeper understanding of the discipline.

This course prepares students to successfully apply for and be granted US Citizenship by the Office of Homeland Security. Students will learn about US History and Civics to prepare for their final interview and how to correctly fill out and submit the N-400 Application for Citizenship. Students will also learn interviewing techniques that will help them prepare for the final interview with the US Government.

IGETC Foreign Language (required for UC only)

Satisfies Global Citizenship

This course introduces the students to basic vocabulary and fundamental sentence structure in the present, preterit and imperfect tenses, and a general introduction to fundamental cultural differences between the United States and Lusophone countries. Basic aural and reading comprehension is developed and students hold simple conversations and write short compositions about present and past actions. This course provides a thorough basic introduction to the diverse cultures, customs and traditions and to historical and current events of the Portuguese-speaking world. The course is taught in Portuguese except in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor.

IGETC Foreign Language (required for UC only)

Satisfies Global Citizenship

• Advisory: PORTGS 1*.

This course is a continuation of Portuguese 1. Using the communicative approach, this course stresses basic vocabulary and fundamental sentence structure in the past and future indicative tenses and the subjunctive mood. The course develops basic aural and reading comprehension. This course provides a thorough introduction to the diverse cultures, customs and traditions and to historical and current events of the Portuguese-speaking world. The course is taught in Portuguese except in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor.

*The advisory for this course is comparable to two years of high school Portuguese.

• Corequisite: Any course in Portuguese.

This course — taken in tandem with another course in the discipline — enables a student to apply course content in a meaningful and relevant way to a particular activity. In this hands-on course, students engage in applied learning through unpaid experiential activities organized by the student (in conjunction with SMC’s applied/service learning center) and approved by the instructor. Students will develop a customized reading list relevant to their particular activity, complete a minimum of 15 hours of volunteer work with that activity, and submit academically-sound written reports regarding the activity. By applying course material to their experience, students develop a deeper understanding of the discipline.