General Biology, Associate in Arts Degree
Banner Code: 2_AA_BIOL
Control Number: 18354
Financial Aid Eligible
This Associate in Arts degree in General Biology is designed to allow students to study a variety of topics in cell and molecular biology, animal and plant diversity, and receive additional STEM preparation. The coursework prepares students to use the scientific method, critical thinking, and applied reasoning to analyze real world situations.
Program Level Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Compare different life forms that inhabit earth regarding modes of reproduction, metabolism, and adaptation.
- Describe the various interrelationships that exist between life forms and also the interactions that occur in different ecosystems on earth.
- Relate how the theory of evolution unifies the significant principles of biological science.
- Perform various experiments and activities using different standard biology lab equipment.
- Apply critical thinking and analytical skills to correctly interpret data.
- Explain biological concepts, theories, current research or other related topics clearly and concisely in the form of lab reports, essays, formal written papers or oral presentations.
- Explain how biology correlates with other sciences such as chemistry, astronomy, ecology, geology or physics.
Review Graduation Requirements and General Education.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| BIOL G180 | Cell and Molecular Biology | 5 |
| CHEM G180 | General Chemistry A | 5 |
| CHEM G185 | General Chemistry B | 5 |
| Select one of the following: | 5-8 | |
| BIOL G186 | Diversity of Organisms | 5 |
| BIOL G182 & BIOL G183 | Zoology and Botany | 8 |
| Select one of the following: | 4 | |
| MATH G170 | Precalculus | 4 |
| MATH G180 | Calculus 1 | 4 |
| Major Total | 24-27 | |
| GE Pattern (Local, CSU GE-Breadth, or IGETC) | 18-39 | |
| Total Units | 60 | |
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 G180 | General Chemistry A | 5 |
| MATH G170 | Precalculus | 4 |
| or MATH G180 | Calculus 1 | |
| ENGL G100 | Freshman Composition ^ | 4 |
| Area E: Lifelong Understanding and Self-Development or any additional course from Area A-D | 3 | |
| Units | 16 | |
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | ||
| BIOL G180 | Cell and Molecular Biology | 5 |
| CHEM G185 | General Chemistry B | 5 |
| Area C: Arts & Humanities course | 3 | |
| Elective coursework for a total of 3 units | 3 | |
| Units | 16 | |
Year 2:
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 3 | ||
| Area D: Social & Behavioral Sciences course | 3 | |
| Area E: Lifelong Understanding and Self-Development or any additional course from Area A-D | 3 | |
| Elective coursework for a total of 9 units | 9 | |
| Units | 15 | |
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 4 | ||
| Ethnic Studies Competency | 3 | |
| Elective coursework to reach a minimum of 60 units | 1-4 | |
| Select one of the following: | 5-8 | |
| BIOL G182 & BIOL G183 | Zoology and Botany | 8 |
| BIOL G186 | Diversity of Organisms | 5 |
| Units | 9-15 | |
| Total Degree Units | 60 | |
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Program sequence may not be recommended for students who self-place into ENGL G100S. Students should see a Counselor for appropriate advisement.