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    Nov 21, 2024  
2024-2025 Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Catalog [ARCHIVED]

Biology, AS


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 pre-professional or professional program in a health-related field. 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 4-year institutions or seek advice from a member of the biology faculty or a counselor before choosing electives.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

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

  • Communicate scientific processes and ideas effectively in written and oral forms.
  • 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.
  • Effectively apply current technology and scientific methodologies for problem solving.
  • Identify and explain relationships between form and function of biological structures at the molecular, cellular, organismal and ecosystem levels.
  • Locate and evaluate various types of scientific information including primary research articles, mass media sources and World Wide Web.
  • Recognize and apply basic ethical principles to biological practices and understand the role of scientists and biological science in society.
  • Demonstrate understanding of how organisms interact with one another and with their environment, and explain interactions at the population, community, and ecosystem levels.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the fundamental biological processes of metabolism, homeostasis, growth, reproduction, development, genetics, and whole organism physiology.  

Total Units Required: 22-26


To earn the associate degree:


See Earning an Associate Degree  for associate degree graduation requirements.

To transfer:


Courses required for the associate degree major at IVC may not be the same as those required for the major at a four-year school. If you plan to transfer, consult a counselor to identify the courses needed for the major at your transfer school and to develop a plan that will best meet your goals. View more information about transferring at Transfer to a Four-Year Institution .

Note:


See an IVC counselor for course substitution if a course is not available.

Third-party credentialing:


Third-party credentialing may be subject to change without notice. This information is accurate as of the publication date of this catalog. For the most current information, please consult with the area dean.