Begin your journey to pursue a career in field biology, research, and medicine. San Juan College's two-year Associate of Science (AS) degree in Biology will prepare you to transfer to a four-year college to earn your bachelor's degree. Our expert professors will teach you the basics of cellular biology, ecology, and more. Take advantage of our field trips and summer research opportunities.
Why Become a Biology Major?
Make a powerful impact in our world by studying biology—the science of life. You'll explore how living organisms function and interconnect. Take measurements to study the effects of climate change on animals, plants, and humans. Travel to remote locations and collect samples as a marine biologist or zoologist. Focus on the human body to treat illnesses and discover cures as a doctor, dentist, or researcher.
With a Biology AS degree, you will dive deeper into understanding the science of life. Your knowledge will help you better care for the planet, local communities, and even your own body. See where a degree in biology can take you.
Why Earn an Associate Degree in Biology at San Juan College?
Ready to Transfer
SJC's two-year Biology AS degree offers a range of courses that prepare you for transfer. You'll be able to earn your bachelor's degree in just two more years. Starting your college career at SJC has many benefits. For example, you'll connect easily with classmates and your professors. That's because our small class sizes provide a more supportive experience than large lecture halls at bigger schools.
Our associate degree in biology also satisfies the requirements for other science degree programs. That makes our Biology AS a flexible option if you know you want to enter the science field but are unsure what to choose as your major.
Research Opportunities
Learn beyond the classroom walls to explore the field of biology. We offer summer undergraduate research opportunities at SJC and organizations around the country.
Affordable Two-Year Program in New Mexico
With SJC's low tuition rates, enrolling in the Biology AS is a smart investment for you. You'll take the same rigorous curriculum at SJC as at a four-year college but at a lower cost. This can save you thousands of dollars as you work toward your bachelor's degree. You may also qualify to get your degree tuition-free through the New Mexico Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships.
What You'll Learn With the Biology Associate Degree
In the Biology program at San Juan College, you'll investigate the complex systems within all life on the planet. You'll study the tiniest microorganisms and examine our genetic code. Many of your science courses will combine lectures with lab courses. In your lab courses, you will perform experiments and go more in-depth with the subject you are studying.
You will take a variety of courses that cover the breadth of biology. They include:
- Biodiversity, Ecology, and Evolution
- Cellular and Molecular Biology
- General Chemistry for STEM Majors
- Principles of Biology: Genetics
You can also choose from science elective courses, such as:
- Algebra-based Physics
- General Botany
- Historical Geology
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Organic Chemistry
- Physical Geology
- Systematic Botany
Through your biology and science courses, you will develop:
- An understanding of the scientific process
- Critical thinking skills
- Principles of experimentation
Transfer Options for Biology AS Graduates
Be on track to earn a bachelor's degree at a four-year university with SJC. A bachelor's degree in Biology will open doors to better job opportunities with higher pay.
With our Biology AS, you can enter as a junior majoring in biology at the following schools:
- Fort Lewis College
- New Mexico State University
- New Mexico Tech
- Northern Arizona University
- The University of New Mexico
Make sure to meet with your academic advisor if you wish to transfer to pursue your bachelor's degree in biology. You will need to coordinate your coursework at San Juan College with the transfer institution's requirements.
Learn More About the Transfer Process
Careers and Outcomes
A degree in biology is a starting point for many careers. Because of biology's many applications, you can work in various fields, such as:
- Biomedical science
- Climate science
- Ecology
- Health science
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Wildlife biology
Most of our graduates transfer to a four-year university to complete their bachelor's degree in biology or a similar field. You'll get more knowledge and experience to continue to reach your career goals.
With additional education and training, you can pursue a career as a:
- Biological technician
- Doctor, nurse, dentist, pharmacist
- Environmental scientist
- Medical scientist
- Teacher
- Technician
Next Steps
To enroll in the Associate of Science in Biology, you must first apply to San Juan College. It's easy, and you can apply online at any time!
If you are already a student at San Juan College, talk to your advisor about our Biology AS and your transfer options.
