General Information
The following is a list of course descriptions, units and pre-requisites for those courses needed to obtain a certificate in microscopy for either the biological or materials program and when they are offered.

The program as listed has been effective since Fall, 1996.
NOTE: CSU, UC designations after courses mean that courses are transferable to most UC or CSU campuses.

Associate of Arts Degree
To obtain an AA degree while getting the microscopy certificate, only 6 additional courses are required (2 in Social Science, 1 in Humanities, 2 in Learning Skills, and 1 in Contemporary Perspectives). See general information on SJDC Associate in Arts Degree for specific courses that are necessary.

For advise to apply for an Associate of Arts Degree while taking the Microscopy Program, make an appointment with SJDC Counseling Center to see a counselor by calling 209-954-5650.

Registration information for San Joaquin Delta College is available from the SJDC Home Page

Contents of the Course Information Page

Courses for Both Biological and Materials Certificate
Additional Courses Required for Materials Microscopy Certificate
Additional Courses Required for Biological Microscopy Certificate
Basic Science Courses Required For Both Certificates
Optional Courses Recommended But NOT Required For Certificate
Electives Suggested but not required for certificate
Typical 2 Year Materials Program Starting in the Fall
Typical 2 Year Biological Program Starting in the Fall

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Courses for Both Biological and Materials Certificate

EM 21: Introductory Techniques for Electron Microscopy: Fall & Spring
EM 11: Photography for Laboratory Technicians: Fall & Spring
EM 30: Current Microscopies: Optics, Theory and Application: Spring
EM 38: Scanning Electron Microscopy: Fall
EM 53: Electron Microscopy Equipment Maintenance: Fall
EM 58: Digital Imaging for Microscopy: Fall
EM 59: Advanced Projects in Electron Microscopy: Spring

Additional Courses for Materials Certificate

EM 34: Introduction to Physical Electron Microscopy: Spring
EM 35: Physical Electron Microscopy - Crystallography: Fall
EM 41: Analytical Scanning Electron Microscopy: Spring
ETECH 20: Materials and Measurements: Fall & Spring

Additional Courses for Biological Certificate

EM 22: Ultramicrotomy for Electron Microscopy: Spring
EM 28: Biological Ultrastructure: Fall
EM 37: Advanced Techniques in Biological Electron Microscopy: Fall
EM 39: Advanced Biological Scanning Electron Microscopy: Spring
BIOL 1: Core Biology: Fall, Spring & Summer

Basic Science Courses Required For Both Certificates

CHEM 3A: Introduction to Chemistry: Fall, Spring & Summer
PHYSC 10: Introduction to Physics: Fall, Spring & Summer

Math Requirements

Beginning and Intermediate Algebra and Trigonometry are required for an electron
microscopy certificate. If students are transferring to other institutions they may choose to take higher math courses but Trigonometry must be included for the microscopy certificate.

MATH 80, Elementary Algebra: Fall, Spring and Summer
MATH 82, Intermediate Algebra: Fall, Spring and Summer
MATH 38 B, Pre Calculus II: Fall, Spring and Summer

Optional Courses

EM 50H: Special Studies in Electron Microscopy: Fall & Spring
EM 79: Fall & Spring
EM 62: Focused Ion Beam Operation and Use: As Needed

Suggested Electives (NOT required for certificate)

For Biological Program:
EM 34: Introduction to Physical Electron Microscopy: Spring

For Materials Program:
EM 22: Ultramicrotomy for Electron Microscopy: Spring

For Both Programs:
ELECT 11: AC and DC Network Analysis: Check current class schedule
ELECT 13A: Integrated Circuits: Check current class schedule

EM 11: Photography for Laboratory Technicians
2 Units
Offered: Fall and Spring Semester
Description: EM 11 is a course designed for those students who wish to become lab technicians using photography as part of their work. Emphasis is placed on photography related to the various types of microscopes as used in medical, scientific, and industrial areas. (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM 21 or concurrent enrollment in EM 21.
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EM 21: Introductory Techniques for Electron Microscopy
3 Units
Offered: Fall and Spring Semester
EM 21 is the beginning electron microscopy lecture and laboratory course dealing with the alignment and operation of the transmission electron microscope (TEM) as well as the preparation of particles and replicas for viewing in the TEM. This includes individual training in the use of the TEM and technique for photography. (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading.
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EM 22: Ultramicrotomy for Electron Microscopy
4.5 Units
Offered: Spring Semester
Description: EM 22 is a lecture and laboratory course which covers the standard methods of preparing TEM samples by ultramicrotomy. Fixation, dehydration, and embedding for biological samples is covered as well as ultramicrotomy for materials samples. It is recommended that the student pass EM 21 with a "C" or better, but it is allowed to take the course concurrently. (CSU)
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM21 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in EM 21.
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EM 28: Biological Ultrastructure
2 Units
Offered: Fall Semester
Description: EM 28 is designed to present specific information about the fine structure and function of cells and tissues covering the 5 major kingdoms at the ultrastructure level. Videos, slides and micrograph examination will be correlated with lectures so that students will learn to recognize the fine structure of cell and tissues. (CSU)
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; BIOL 1 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 30: Current Microscopies: Optics, Theory and Application
3 units
Offered: Spring Semester
Description: EM 30 provides information related to the physical law and applications of the various types of current microsocpies. (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; PHYSICS 10 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 34: Introduction to Physical Electron Microscopy
2 Units
Offered: Spring Semester
Description: EM 34 is a lecture and laboratory course covering the areas of fractography, integrated circuits, and thin foil preparations. (CSU)
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM21 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in EM 21.
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EM 35: Physical Electron Microscopy - Crystallography
3.5 Units
Offered: Fall Semester
Description: EM 35 is a lecture and laboratory course covering preparation, handling and examination of thin film electron transmission samples of metals. The course covers interpretation of electron micrograph images and reciprocal lattice patterns in terms of electron diffraction in crystals. (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM21 and EM34 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 37: Advanced Techniques in Biological Electron Microscopy
3.5 units
Offered: Fall Semester
Description: EM 37 is a lecture and laboratory course which covers advanced techniques for biological specimen preparation in light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy e.g. morphometry, cryo techniques, immunocytochemistry, microwave protocols, paraffin embedding and H & E staining, etc. (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM 21 and EM 22 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 38: Scanning Electron Microscopy
3 Units
Offered: Fall Semester
Description: EM 38 is designed to provide the student with techniques necessary to prepare specimens both organic and inorganic, for the SEM. The student will also become familiar with the operating modes of the SEM and the energy dispersive x- ray system. High resolution systems and computer imaging will constitute part of the course (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM 21 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 39: Advanced Biological Scanning Electron Microscopy
2 Units
Offered: Spring Semester
Description: EM 39 is a lecture and laboratory course which covers advanced preparation methods for biological specimens for observation in the scanning electron microscope (SEM). (CSU)
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM 38 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 41: Analytical Scanning Electron Microscopy
3 Units
Offered: Spring Semester
Description: EM 41 is an advanced course in scanning electron microscopy. The course places emphasis on elemental analysis with both energy and wavelength dispersive systems as done on the SEM. Quantitative computer assisted analysis will consititute a segment of the course. (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM 38 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 50H: Special Study in Electron Microscopy
1-2 Units,
Offered: Fall and Spring
Description: This course is available to qualified students who wish to explore further some phase of electron microscopy either in the biological or metallurgical field. Consent of the instructor and division chairperson is required. (CSU)
Prerequisites: EM 35 or EM 37 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 53: Electron Microscopy Equipment Maintenance
3 Units
Offered: Fall Semester
Description: EM 53 provides information and training related to the upkeep and everyday maintenance of equipment usually found in a microscope laboratory (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM 38 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in EM 38.
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EM 58: Digital Imaging in Microscopy
2 Units
Offered: Fall Semester
Description: EM 58 is a lecture and laboratory course which provides information and training related to the acquisition, processing, measurement and analysis of images specifically related to microscopy applications. Course includes use of Photoshop, Digital Micrograph, NIH Image and other image software. Field trips may be required. (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM 21 and CS 18B with a grade of "C" or better
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EM 59: Advanced Projects in Electron Microscopy
2 Units,
Offered: Spring Semester
Description: EM 59 is a lecture and laboratory course which includes special studies involving advanced concepts for microscopy including research projects, lab design, equipment purchase considerations, quality assurance programs, etc. Field trips may be required (CSU).
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; EM 35 or EM 37 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 62: Focused Ion BEAM (FIB) Operation and Use
2 Units,
Offered: As Needed
Description: This course is an advanced microscopy lecture and laboratory course specifically dealing with the operation and use of the focused ion beam (FIB) instrument. (CSU)
Prerequisites: EM 38 with a grade of "C" or better.
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EM 79: Applied Microscopy Principles
1-3 Units,
Offered: Fall and Spring Semester
Description: EM 79 gives the student the opportunity to assist in the beginning classes or in special projects related to microscopy. Student should see the Instructor the first day of classes to sign up.
Prerequisites: Instructor permission.
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BIOL 1: Core Biology
4 units
Offered: Fall and Spring
Description: This course covers the basic biological phenomena common to all living organisms. The areas covered are: cellular and molecular levels of organization, genetics and mechanisms of heredity in organic evolution, reproduction and development, and introductory concepts of taxonomy and ecology. (UC, CSU, CAN BIO 2)
Prerequisites: Reading level II.
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ETECH 20: Engineering Technology - Materials and Measurements
3 units
Offered: Check schedule for when offered.
Description: This course, intended for technology students, is designed to give the student a basic understanding of the structure and physical properties of materials such as metals, ceramics, plastics, wood and concrete. Test procedures and instrumentation used in studying materials will be covered. A variety of measuring techniques used in practice will be included. (CSU)
Prerequisites: Reading Level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; One year high school algebra; or MATH 80 (Beg Algebra) or MATH 83A and MATH 83B.
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CHEM 3A: Introduction to Chemistry
4 units
Offered: Fall and Spring
Description: This course meets the chemistry requirements for registered nursing, agriculture, and home economics majors, and certain majors in the biological sciences. (UC, CSU, CAN CHEM 6)
Prerequisites: Reading level II; MATH 80 (Beginning Algebra) or MATH 83A and MATH 83B with a grade of "C" or better; or first year high school algebra with a grade of "C" or better.
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PHYSC 10: Introduction to Physics
4 units
Offered: Fall and Spring
Description: This course is designed to introduce the fundamentals of physics to students with no previous background in the subject. The course content will survey selected topics in the areas of mechanics, heat, optics, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear physics. It is not recommended for science and transfer engineering majors. Emphasis is on practical applications through laboratory work involving extensive instrumentation and measuring techniques. (UC, CSU)
Prerequisites: Reading level II; one yr of high school algebra or MATH 80 (Beginning algebra) with a grade of "C" or better.
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MATH 80: Elementary Algebra
4 units
Offered: Fall and Spring
Description: This course is a first course in algebra. Specific topics include polynomials, factoring of polynomials, rational expressions, ratio and proportion, solving linear and quadratic equations, elementary graphing in two dimensions, elementary systems of linear equations, square roots, and various applications problems. Entering students need a satisfactory understanding of basic arithmetic including fractions, decimals, and percents. MATH 80 is equivalent to a first year high school algebra course.
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; math level II.
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MATH 82: Intermediate Algebra
4 units
Offered: Fall and Spring
Description: This course is a second course in algebra. Specific topics include linear and quadratic inequalities, graphing of linear and quadratic functions, polynomial factoring, rational expressions, radicals, complex numbers, systems of linear equations using Cramer's Rule, conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions, arithmetic and geometric sequences and series.
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; math level II; math level II; MATH 80 or equivalent with a grade of "C" or better.
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MATH 38B: Pre-Calculus II
4 units
Offered: Fall and Spring
Description: This course is a comprehensive course in Trigonometry and Analytical Geometry. Topics include conic sections, polar coordinates, linear and non-linear systems and matrix algebra. A graphing calculator may be required. (UC, CSU)
Prerequisites: Math 082 Intermediate Algebra with grade of "C" or better.
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ELECT 11: AC and DC Network Analysis
4.5 units
Offered: Check current class schedule
Description: This course presents the passive components in electronics from atomic structure through resonance. Laboratory exercises are utilized to familiarize students with basic electronics test equipment and simple DC and AC circuits. (CSU)
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; ELECT 79 or MATH 80.
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ELECT 13A: Integrated Circuits
4.5 units
Offered: Check current class schedule
Description: This class is designed to introduce the student to digital devices and their applications. The student will explore a variety of these devices and learn the theory and application of the major groups. The student will be prepared for advancement to microprocessors and microcomputers training. (CSU)
Prerequisites: Reading level II or concurrent enrollment in reading; ELECT 11 or equivalent.
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Typical Materials Program starting Fall Semester
NOTE: Students may also start in the Spring since EM 21 and EM 11 are offered during BOTH semesters. These are the ONLY EM courses offered both semesters. All of other classes are offered either Fall OR Spring, so check prerequisites carefully for starting in Spring.
* indicates courses recommended, not required for certificate.
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First Year: Fall

EM 21: Techniques of Electron Microscopy
EM 11: Photography for Laboratory Technicians
MATH 80: Elementary Algebra
PHYSC 10: Introduction to Physics

CSA 020: MS Word, Excel, Access

First Year: Spring

CHEM 3A: Introduction to Chemistry
ETECH 20: Engineering Materials (Check class schedule for when offered)
EM 34: Introduction to Physical Electron Microscopy
*EM 22: Ultramicrotomy for Microscopy
MATH 82: Intermediate Algebra
*EM 79: Applied Microscopy Principles

First Year: Summer

Math 38B: Pre-Calculus II

Second Year: Fall

EM 35: Physical Electron Microscopy Laboratory
EM 38: Scanning Electron Microscopy
EM 53: Electron Microscopy Equipment Maintenance
EM 58: Digital Imaging for Microscopy

Second Year: Spring

EM 30: Current Microscopies
EM 59: Advanced Projects in Microscopy
EM 41: Analytical Scanning Electron Microscopy
*EM 79: Applied Microscopy Principles

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Typical Biological Program starting Fall Semester
NOTE: Students may also start in the Spring since EM 21 and EM 11 are offered during BOTH semesters. These are the ONLY EM courses offered both semesters. All other classes are offered either Fall OR Spring, so check prerequisites carefully for starting in Spring. Please check prerequisites for Core Biology (BIO I). If you have not completed Math 82 (Intermediate Algebra), the semester schedule for the biological certificate will not allow you to enroll in Core Biology (BIO I) the first semester. Math 82 is a prerequisite for Chem 3A and Chem 3A is a prerequisite for Core Biology (BIO I). It is suggested that prerequisite courses be taken in summer school. Core Biology (BIO I) may be taken concurrently with EM 28 (Cell Ultrasructure) in the third semester with permission of EM Instructor. For questions about these changes please call the lab at 954-5246.
* indicates courses recommended, not required for certificate.
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First Year: Fall

EM 21: Techniques of Electron Microscopy
EM 11: Photography for Laboratory Technicians
MATH 80: Elementary Algebra
BIOL 1: Core Biology

CSA 020: MS Word, Excel, Access

First Year: Spring

CHEM 3A: Introduction to Chemistry
EM 22: Ultramicrotomy for Microscopy
MATH 82: Intermediate Algebra
PHYSC 10: Introduction to Physics
*EM 79: Applied Microscopy Principles

First Year: Summer

Math 38B: Pre-Calculus II

Second Year: Fall

EM 28: Cell Ultrastructure
EM 37: Advanced Tecniques in Biological Electron Microscopy
EM 38: Scanning Electron Microscopy
EM 53: Electron Microscopy Equipment Maintenance
EM 58: Digital Imaging for Microscopy

Second Year: Spring

EM 30: Current Microscopies
EM 39: Advanced Biological Scanning Microscopy
EM 59: Advanced Projects in Microscopy
*EM 41: Analytical Scanning Electron Microscopy
*EM 79: Applied Microscopy Principles