Biology UC Pathway Associate of Science (AS)
About the Program
The Biology UC Pathway Associate of Science degree is designed to prepare students for for a seamless transfer into a biology major at a University of California campus. The degree also provides entry-level opportunities for laboratory technicians in industry and the academic environment. The coursework provides foundational knowledge and hands-on experiences across all levels of biology, from the molecular to the ecological. The primary difference between the Biology UC Pathway Associate of Science degree and the Associate in Science in Biology for Transfer (AS-T) degree is that the Biology UC Pathway Associate of Science degree follows the UC Transfer Pathway for admission as a biology major to University of California campuses. The transfer pathway is different for University of California and California State University campuses. If you plan to complete a baccalaureate degree related to biology (for example, Evolution and Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Genetics, etc.) then it is essential that the student also refer to the catalog of the prospective transfer institution and consult a counselor.
Career Opportunities
Various areas of specialization are available to biologists in academia, industry, manufacturing, education, health care, natural resource management, public policy, consulting, administration, and organizations such as zoos, aquaria, museums, and parks. Some of the many possibilities for careers include veterinarian, doctor, physical therapist, research scientist, biotechnologist, plant pathologist, surgeon, environmental consultant, genetic counselor, lab technician, physician assistant, and wildlife biologist. Preparation for entry level jobs in these and other areas generally require a bachelor's degree in biology.
Program Outcomes
- Upon completion of an AS in Biology UC Pathway, students are able to design, conduct, analyze, and/or report results of investigations and experiments in the laboratory and/or field.
- Upon completion of an AS in Biology UC Pathway, students are able to explain and apply basic principles and processes of biology at different levels, from the biochemical to the ecological.
- Upon completion of an AS in Biology UC Pathway, students are proficient in standard biology lab techniques and lab safety procedures.
Learning and Career Pathway Maps
Required Core: (45 Units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| BIO 1A | General Botany | 5 |
| BIO 1B | General Zoology | 5 |
| BIO 1C | Cell and Molecular Biology | 5 |
| CHEM 1A | General College Chemistry I | 5 |
| CHEM 1B | General College Chemistry II | 5 |
| CHEM 12A | Organic Chemistry I | 5 |
| CHEM 12B | Organic Chemistry II | 5 |
| MATH 1 | Calculus I | 5 |
| MATH 2 | Calculus II | 5 |
Total Units for the Major: 45
The Associate Degree is conferred upon those students who complete the required 60 or more semester units of the degree pattern with a grade-point average of 2.0 or better, of which 12 units must be earned at Las Positas College. In addition, students must complete a General Education pattern in order to earn a degree: see the Las Positas College General Education Pattern for Associate of Science (AS) Degree, California State University General Education-Breadth, or the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (for CSU) patterns for listing of areas and courses. Double counting courses in GE and the major is permissible. The number of units that may be double counted will depend on the entry point to the degree program, the optional course(s) taken, and the GE pattern selected. Elective units are degree applicable. Consult with an adviser or a counselor to plan the courses necessary to achieve your academic goal.