Biological Sciences
Biology is the study of living organisms, and includes plants, animals, bacteria and fungi. Biology studies their molecular and cellular structures as well as the whole organism and also includes structure - function relationships and organismal behavior.
Career paths chosen by students pursuing undergraduate studies in biology commonly include pharmaceutical sales, biomedical research, biomedical engineering, fish and wildlife biology, animal handler/trainer, zoo/aquarium biologist, forestry service, national parks service, environmentalist, biology teacher.
Careers in the discipline that generally require graduate-level degrees include medicine, pharmacy, veterinary, optometry and dentistry, bioinformatics (biology & computer science), medical research, scientific research. Even students who choose not to major in biology find that coursework in the field can improve their ability to think critically, solve complex problems, improve their skills at writing, research and analysis, understand modern scientific, medical and environmental issues as well as their own health issues.
College of the Desert’s biology curriculum includes course offerings that provide a general overview of the discipline, as well as coursework in mathematics, physics and chemistry.
The College offers an Associate of Science degree, as well as courses leading to transfer to a university. Students earning an associate’s degree in biology may pursue entry-level positions as laboratory assistants or may choose to continue their study in the discipline toward a bachelor’s or graduate degree. COD has transfer agreements with the California State Universities and University of California systems in this discipline/program. However, transfer requirements at four-year colleges and universities vary from institution to institution; students should consult with a counselor for specific information regarding the transfer requirements of their preferred college or university. For more information please call 760-773-2573.
