Academic Catalogs

Biology, Associate in Science Degree for Transfer

Banner Code: 2_AST_BIOL

Control Number: 41897

Financial Aid Eligible


This Associate in Science degree in General Biology is designed to allow students to study a variety of topics in cell and molecular biology, animal and plant diversity. The coursework prepares students to use the scientific method, critical thinking, and applied reasoning to analyze real world situations. Upon completion, students will be ready for transfer to a four-year institution leading to a degree in biology or disciplines such as microbiology, botany, zoology and careers in teaching. 

Program Level Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Compare different life forms that inhabit earth regarding modes of reproduction, metabolism, and adaptation. 
  2. Describe the various interrelationships that exist between life forms and also the interactions that occur in different ecosystems on earth. 
  3. Relate how the theory of evolution unifies the significant principles of biological science.
  4. Perform various experiments and activities in biology lab classes, including the proper use of different types of standard biology lab equipment.
  5. Apply critical thinking and analytical skills to interpret data.
  6. Explain biological concepts, theories, current research or other related topics in the form of lab reports, essays, formal written papers or oral presentations.
  7. Explain how biology correlates with other sciences such as chemistry, astronomy, ecology, geology or physics.
     

Associate Degree for Transfer Graduation Requirements

Associate Degrees for Transfer require students to meet the following requirements:

  • Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of degree-applicable courses,
  • Minimum overall grade point average of 2.0,
  • Minimum grade of “C” (or “P”) for each course in the major, and
  • Completion of IGETC and/or CSU GE-Breadth.

Students should consult a GWC counselor in order to select the best pathway to meet their educational goals. For students who intend to transfer, the choice of general education will be specific to both their major and transfer institution.

Course Title Units
Required Courses
Select one of the following:10-13
Option 1:
BIOL G180
BIOL G186
Cell and Molecular Biology
and Diversity of Organisms
10
Option 2:
BIOL G180
BIOL G182
BIOL G183
Cell and Molecular Biology
and Zoology
and Botany
13
List A22
CHEM G180
CHEM G185
General Chemistry A
and General Chemistry B
10
MATH G180Calculus 14
Select one of the following:
PHYS G120
PHYS G125
Algebra Based Physics: Mechanics
and Algebra Based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism
8
PHYS G185
PHYS G280
Calculus Based Physics: Mechanics
and Calculus Based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism
8
Major Total32-35
GE Pattern (CSU GE-Breadth or IGETC)*33-31
Total units that may be double-counted9-10
Transferable Electives (as needed to reach 60 units)1-6
Total Units60

*This Transfer Model Curriculum presumes completion of IGETC or CSU GE Breadth for STEM, allowing for completion of 6 units of non-STEM GE work after transfer.

Recommended Program Sequence

These sequences are general course maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, completion of short-term certificates, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. However, this may not be an appropriate path for all students.  The two-year sequence is based on English and Math placement and meeting other course prerequisites. Students are advised to meet with a GWC Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.

Year 1:

Course Title Units
Semester 1
CHEM G180General Chemistry A5
ENGL G100Freshman Composition ^4
Area A1: Oral Communication course3
Area E: Lifelong Learning & Self-Development course3
Units15
Course Title Units
Semester 2
CHEM G185General Chemistry B5
MATH G140Business Calculus4
or MATH G180 Calculus 1
Area A3: Critical Thinking course3-4
Area C1: Arts course3
Units15-16

Year 2: 

Course Title Units
Semester 3
BIOL G180Cell and Molecular Biology5
PHYS G120Algebra Based Physics: Mechanics4
or PHYS G185 Calculus Based Physics: Mechanics
Area D: Social & Behavioral Science course3
Area F: Ethnic Studies course3
Units15
Course Title Units
Semester 4
BIOL G186Diversity of Organisms5
PHYS G125Algebra Based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism4
or PHYS G280 Calculus Based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism
HIST G170History Of The United States To 1876 (Area C2: Humanities course)3
or HIST G175 History of the United States Since 1876
Area C: Arts & Humanities course3
Area D: Social & Behavioral Science course3
Units18
Total minimum units required60
^

Program sequence may not be recommended for students who self-place into ENGL G100S. Students should see a Counselor for appropriate advisement.