Biological Sciences

biological sciences Overview

The San José City College Biology Program invites you to embark on a captivating journey to explore the wonders of life. With a wide range of lecture and lecture-laboratory classes, we cater to diverse student needs, providing a dynamic and engaging environment for the study of biological sciences.

Success Resources

 

OUR DEPARTMENT’S CURRICULUM IS ORGANIZED INTO THREE DIFFERENT ACADEMIC PATHWAYS:
    • A) Majors biology courses,
    • B) Allied Health courses for pre-professionals (e.g. pre-nursing, pre-physical therapy, etc...), and
    • C) Bio-literacy (for non-majors courses for general education requirements.)

While all coursework can be used for transfer to four year colleges and universities, the Allied Health pathway is in many ways a beginning Occupational Program for the health care industry where employment opportunities currently abound.

Our biology department faculty members are committed to creating an encouraging learning environment. They spend generous amounts of extra time with students to help clarify course work,  and offer education and career guidance.

Department Contacts

For more information contact Mathematics & Science Division

  • Dean of Math & Science
  • Dr. Misty Stroud
  • (408) 288-3716

Recommended Curriculum for Biology Majors

Students planning to transfer into an upper division program need to contact the Transfer Center to obtain the latest information. Catalogs are available but they only provide an overview of what is required.

Each college or university expects transfer students to have completed certain courses; however, the requirements vary from one institution to the next.

With the above in mind, the department recommends that students planning to transfer into a Biological Science major consider taking the following courses:

  • Arts & Humanities (3 approved courses)
  • Biology 4A and 4B
  • Chemistry 1A, 1B
  • English 1A, 1C
  • History & Political Science (2 approved courses)
  • Math 71, 72
  • Oral Communication (1 approved course)
  • Physics 2A, 2B or Physics 4A, 4B
  • Social & Behavioral Science (3 approved courses)
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Peer-Led Learning

Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL) is a small-group collaborative approach to learning, studying, and orally communicating chemistry, biology, math and physics. Click on the first link to find out our current semester schedule of PLTL workshops. Students who become peer leaders earn a modest stipend and are offered opportunities to participate in local and national conferences, internships, and more.​

frequently asked questions (faq)

SJCC offers an Associate in Science in Biology for Transfer (AS-T) degree. This program provides students with a solid foundation in the life sciences, preparing them for potential transfer to a four-year institution. Successful completion of the AS-T satisfies lower-division requirements and guarantees admission to the California State University (CSU) system, though not to a particular campus or major.

The Biology program offers a variety of courses, including:

  • General Biology: An introductory course covering the general principles and basic concepts of biology, such as the characterization and classification of living systems, cell biology, metabolism, development, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human health.
  • Anatomy, Botany, Environmental Science, Microbiology, and Physiology: These courses provide a comprehensive understanding of various biological disciplines.

Graduates with a background in biology can pursue careers in research, healthcare, medicine, biotechnology, and teaching. Potential roles include laboratory technician, research assistant, environmental consultant, and various positions in healthcare settings. Further education can lead to advanced careers such as physician, biologist, or professor.

To apply, visit the SJCC Admissions page and complete the online application process. After applying, it's recommended to meet with a counselor to plan your course schedule and ensure you meet all program requirements.

For additional details, you can reach out to the Mathematics and Science Division at SJCC. 

Dean of Math & Science:
Dr. Misty Stroud
(408) 288-3716

Senior Administrative Assistant:
Ricci Le
(408) 288-3716
Ricci.Le@sjcc.edu