Biology, Science Area of Concentration, Associate of Science
This area of concentration is designed to help students transfer to colleges and universities that offer a baccalaureate degree with a major in Biology. Beyond the General Education requirements and options, this concentration should be considered in light of the requirements of the selected transfer institution. Students should consult with a transfer coordinator or an advisor for information about specific requirements.
Biology is the study of living organisms, their structure, life processes, and their interactions with each other and their environment. A major in the biological sciences is recommended for students interested in pursuing further study in biology, botany, zoology, ecology/environmental sciences, microbiology, agriculture, forestry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, or marine biology. This concentration also provides an excellent foundation for studies in pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, and pre-veterinary medicine and may qualify students for positions as biology laboratory technicians. The sequence of courses may be taken on a full-time or a part-time basis. Some classes are offered both day and evening.
Program objectives
Upon successful completion of this area of concentration, students will be able to:
- demonstrate core biological principles required for entry into general biology, botany, zoology, ecology/environmental sciences, microbiology, agriculture, forestry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, or marine biology and professional health programs such as pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-veterinary medicine;
- apply the scientific method in an investigative laboratory setting by formulating testable hypotheses, and then analyzing and evaluating the collected data;
- apply laboratory skills and use technology to answer questions in the biological sciences;
- communicate the results of laboratory investigations, orally and in writing, in a thorough and accurate manner;
- gather experimental data and apply quantitative reasoning skills to analyze and interpret findings;
- utilize biological terminology to explain, orally and in writing, the molecular perspective of biology;
- develop and apply biological and scientific literacy to everyday life;
- apply biological principles as they relate to cells and organisms;
- apply the principles of evolution and genetics as they relate to cells and organisms; and
- apply concepts of chemistry to biological inquiries.
