The Biology program prepares students who are transferring to four year institutions to earn baccalaureate degrees in a wide array of majors in the biological sciences. The program curriculum focuses on the fundamental biological themes and processes of cellular, molecular, and organismal biology, the chemical foundation of life, physics, math, and general education. The program also emphasizes the scientific processes and laboratory experiences to gather, organize, analyze data, and communicate results, as well as basic mathematical and statistical computations for exploring how organisms acquire and use energy to maintain homeostasis, how they reproduce, and how they interact with each other and adapt to their environment.
Program Emphasis
The biology program serves four areas of study. First, it provides a broad background of studies for the biology major preparing for transfer to a four-year institution. Second, the Applied Biology Associate Degree curriculum provides preparation for entry level employment as a technician in the life sciences industry. In addition to the associate degree programs, certificates in Applied Biotechnology with emphasis in either Molecular Biology or Analytical Chemistry are offered. The biology program also offers support courses in human anatomy, human physiology and general microbiology which may be used to satisfy prerequisites for nursing programs and other allied health fields. Fourth, the biology program provides courses in natural science to fulfill general education requirements.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students who complete the Biology Program will be able to:
- Apply the scientific method in order to explain natural phenomena and world.
- Gather, organize, and analyze data and illustrate results in graphical and appropriate formats.
- Use acquired knowledge of biology to evaluate current events.
- Communicate core concepts and processes central to biology using scientific terminology.