2020-2021 Catalog [ARCHIVED]
Health Science
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 Return to: Program, Degree and Certificate List
Dean: Lianna Zhao, MD
Academic Chair: Roland Rodriguez
Faculty: Devon Bradley, PhD; Meredith Dorner; David Fretz; Diana Hurlbut, PhD; Jefferey Kaufmann, PhD; Emalee Mackenzie; Amy McWhorter, PhD; Pierre Nguyen; Roland Rodriguez; Katherine Schmeidler, PhD; Justin Wright
Major
The requirements for majors in the life sciences are intended to provide a solid foundation for the student who wishes to pursue further study at the baccalaureate level and for some graduate-level programs. They are also intended for students who plan to enter a preprofessional or professional program in a health-related field. The faculty strongly recommends that students without a firm foundation in basic biological principles complete both Biology 93 and Biology 94 in preparation for the more specialized courses. In addition to the core courses for the major or health-related fields, an introduction to other sciences is usually recommended and necessary for more advanced study. The biology faculty therefore suggests that students complete appropriate courses in chemistry, physics, and mathematics concurrently with biology core courses. Students should refer to the requirements of prospective institutions or seek advice from a member of the biology faculty or a counselor before choosing electives.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Biology
Upon completion of the AA in Health Sciences, students will be able to
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Communicate scientific processes and ideas effectively in written and oral forms.
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Demonstrate understanding of the mechanisms driving evolution, the role of evolution as the central unifying concept of biology and describe similarities and differences of the major taxonomic groups.
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Effectively apply current technology and scientific methodologies for problem solving.
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Identify and explain relationships between form and function of biological structures at the molecular cellular, organismal, and ecosystem levels.
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Locate and evaluate various types of scientific information including primary research articles, mass media sources and world wide web.
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Recognize and apply basic ethical principles to biological practices and understand the role of scientists and biological science in society.
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Demonstrate understanding of how organisms interact with one another and with their environment, and explain interactions at the population and community levels.
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Demonstrate understanding of the fundamental biological processes of metabolism, homeostasis, growth, reproduction, development, genetics and whole organism physiology.
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Apply the metric system using standard laboratory equipment to systematically collect, organize, interpret, and assess data in graphs, tables or figures then integrate the acquired knowledge to make informed judgments and conclusions.
Potential Careers
The Health Sciences Program is dedicated to offering a quality program that will meet the lifelong learning needs of our students and prepare them for transfer to a CSU or a UC in order for them to obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing or other allied health professions.
An AA degree in the Health Sciences will prepare students for entry into certificate or technical training programs including:
- Nursing
- Biotechnology
- Dental Assisting/Hygiene
- Emergency Medical Technology
- Paramedic Training
- Laboratory Research
- Physical Therapy Assisting
- Medical Laboratory Technician
- Pharmaceutical sales representative
- Occupational therapy
- Pharmacy
- Vision Care
- Radiology Technician
Local and state regulations govern the licensing of nurses and other health professions. Eligibility for employment depends upon performance in competitive examinations as well as performance in education and experience levels. In general, any job which has its focus in helping to cure or prevent disease and/or ailment falls into this cluster of jobs.
Students that earn the Associate of Arts in Health Sciences may find immediate work in the following fields:
- Public relations
- Long-term care facilities
- Community organizations
- Biotechnology research
- State and Federal Health departments
- Home Health Care
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