Degrees

LIFE SCIENCE CONCENTRATION
Associate in Science Degree

• Objectives
• Degree Information
• Recommended Course of Study
• Course Descriptions

Objectives

Life Science students will:

1. Be given a thorough exposure to fundamental concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics, with an emphasis on using the scientific method.
2. Acquire a balanced understanding of biology, chemistry, and physics through lectures and laboratory experiences, ranging from theoretical principles to their applications in other scientific fields and today’s society.
3. Learn how mathematical analysis and computer technology are used to test hypotheses.
4. Apply fundamental concepts of biology and chemistry to all levels of biological organization, ranging from the simplest single cells (microbiology) to the entire biosphere (ecology) using evolutionary theory as the basic unifying theme.
5. Gain the necessary knowledge to begin employment as field laboratory technicians or to transfer to four-year institutions and continue studies in biology or applied health discipline.

Degree Information

The Life Science Program is designed to provide a sound education in general science (biology, chemistry, and physics) plus more advanced coursework in biology.  Students entering the program should have successfully completed two to three years of science in high school.  They should also be familiar with computers and their uses.  Primarily a transfer-related program, this curriculum provides intensive, hands-on laboratory experiences that will prepare students for additional study at four-year institutions.  Students may also gain entry-level positions in science-related careers as laboratory technicians.

Recommended Course of Study

*Developmental courses may be required as prerequisites

**Courses listed in blue are described below. Other course descriptions are listed with Core Requirements

Course Descriptions - Science

BIO 120 (Formerly BI 121) - General Biology I

This introduction to biology course deals with cell structure and physiology, cellular organization into tissues, organs, systems and organisms; fundamental characteristics of living things, and the anatomy and physiology of vertebrates, with an emphasis on man. Three hours lecture and three hours of laboratory per week (4 Credits).

BIO 125 (Formerly BI 122)- General Biology II

This course is a follow-up to General Biology I and introduces the basic principles of heredity and evolution. Also included in the course is a survey of the five kingdoms of living things, with an emphasis on plants, and a study of basic ecological principles. Three hours lecture and three hours of laboratory per week (4 Credits). Prerequisite: BIO 120 

BIO 220 (Formerly BI 221) - Microbiology

This course provides information concerning the nature and diversity of microorganisms. Additionally, BE 221 covers specific properties of eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms and their roles in the disease process. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week (4 Credits). Prerequisite: BIO 120 and BIO 125. Click here to view BIO 220 course objectives.

BIO 225 (Formerly BI 222) – Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

This course is an introduction to the principles of ecology and evolution, emphasizing the interrelationships between organisms and their environment. Topics include the historical development of evolutionary theory, the role of genetics, history of life on earth, and physiological, population, community, and ecosystem ecology. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week (4 Credits). Prerequisites: BIO 120 and BIO 125. Click here to view BIO 225 course objectives.

CHM 120 (Formerly CH 121) – General Chemistry I

This course explores the fundamental laws, theories and mathematical concepts of chemistry with an emphasis on chemical properties, structure, stoichiometry and the periodic table. Three hours lecture and three hours of laboratory per week (4 Credits). Click here to view CHM 120 course objectives.

CHM 125 (Formerly CH 122) – General Chemistry II

This course explores the fundamental laws, theories and mathematical concepts of chemistry with an emphasis on the chemistry of aqueous solutions, including reaction rates, acids and bases, oxidation and reduction, electrochemistry, metals and nonmetals, nuclear chemistry, and organic chemistry. Three hours lecture and three hours of laboratory per week (4 Credits). Prerequisite: CHM 120   Click here to view CHM 125 course objectives.

PHY 120 (Formerly PH 121) – General Physics I

This course addresses the fundamental properties of matter and energy. Topics include measurements, motion, force, work and energy, momentum, vibration and heat. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week (4 Credits). Prerequisite: MAT 120 or equivalent. Click here to view PHY 120 course objectives.  

PHY 125 (Formerly PH 122) – General Physics II

This course is a continuation of General Physics I and addresses the fundamental properties of matter and energy. Topics include electricity, magnetism, optics and modern physics. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week (4 Credits). Prerequisite: PHY 120. Click here to view PHY 125 course objectives.