The Biology program offers degrees that are intended to create interest and enrichment through the study of living organisms and the basic biological principles. The major courses provide a strong background in the biological sciences for students transferring to four-year institutions who are interested in careers such as agriculture, health, research, and teaching.

The Biology program offers two associate degrees: The AS degree (associate degree in biological sciences) and the AS-T degree (associate degree in biological sciences for transfer). The AS degree does not require calculus, but includes other mathematics courses that meet transfer requirements for certain institutions. The AS-T provides a clearly articulated curriculum, including first-semester calculus, for students who wish to transfer to baccalaureate degree programs at California State University (CSU) campuses.

Baccalaureate programs in biology include a wide array of specialties including but not limited to: animal or plant science, biochemistry, bioinformatics, cell and molecular biology, environmental biology, human biology, and microbiology. The preparation for different specialties will vary. For detailed requirements for individual programs at four-year institutions, students should contact the transfer institution and/or meet with a counselor for specific transfer course requirements in their major.

Program Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this program a student will be able to:

🗸 Apply the scientific method to problem-solving, devising a research plan, and evaluating data and findings.

🗸 Describe the structure and function of biological molecules, cells and organelles, and tissues and organ systems of plants and animals.

🗸 Apply the principles of heredity at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels.

🗸 Explain the mechanism and evidence of evolution through natural selection.

🗸 Apply taxonomic principles to the classification of organisms.

🗸 Describe the flow of energy within organisms and within ecosystems.

Career Opportunities:

🗸 Animal Scientist

🗸 Biologist

🗸 Botanist

🗸 Ecologist

🗸 Environmental Scientist

🗸 Natural Resource Manager

🗸 Nature Conservationist

🗸 Public Health Worker

🗸 Research/Professor

🗸 Water Quality Technician

🗸 Wildlife Biologist

🗸 Wildlife Resource Worker