Biology

Program Description

Biology will change your life because you will learn about yourself and the world around you.  Biologists study how humans, animals and other organisms function and interact.  It is essential for understanding the facts about topics such as vaccines, climate change, and genetically modified organisms.  This will help you make more informed decisions about things that greatly impact you and your loved ones. Biology is required for medical and environmental careers. 

Transfer Preparation

MSJC offers a wide range of course work that prepares students for the workforce or for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. All four-year institutions prescribe their own standards for course evaluation and admissions. Courses that fulfill major requirements for an associate degree in a program at MSJC might not be the same as those required for transfer into a similar major at a four-year university. Please meet with a Counselor to confirm transfer requirements.  

Transfer students are advised to do research on prospective majors and careers. The MSJC Transfer Center and MSJC catalog can be helpful tools. Students interested in transferring to CSU’s or UC’s can access major preparation by visiting ASSIST. All students are advised to meet with a counselor at least once a semester to create or update their comprehensive education plan.  

Contact Information

San Jacinto Campus
(951) 487-MSJC (6752)
1-800-452-3335
Michael Plotkin (951) 487-3730
mplotkin@msjc.edu

Menifee Valley Campus
(951) 672-MSJC (6752)
1-800-452-3335
Nick Reeves (951) 639-5735
nreeves@msjc.edu

Degrees

Transfer Degrees

  • Students through persistence will develop problem solving skills in science thinking both critically and abstractly about issues using science as the foundation for understanding
  • Students will gain scientific awareness with a flexible approach including a willingness to change perspectives and an ability to weigh alternative options while staying rooted in the understanding of their impact as local, national, and global citizens.

  • Students will apply past knowledge to new scientific situations, being able to think abstractly regarding science and communicate this newfound knowledge in the language of science and the scientific method. 

  • Students will achieve literacy in the language of science and the scientific method, demonstrating a willingness to respond with wonderment and awe with regards to the physical and biological principles of science, and gather data through all senses.

  • Students will learn hands-on skills in the laboratory, demonstrate how to measure and collect data from experiments with accuracy and precision, and think critically about the results.

Discover in-demand careers and education options based on your interests!  See the list of careers below or explore further by searching for Careers or Programs.

Note: There are no guaranteed positions for students completing these programs. Education and work experience required will vary by employer. The salary and benefits for specific occupations will be dependent on work experience, education, background, and employer. Labor market statistics are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Census Bureau, O-NET, EMSI.

Career/Industries CA Annual Median Salary or Range Employment Demand or Opening CA
Family Medicine Physicians (D) $224,319 474
Dentists (D) $154,597 1204
Geneticists (M, D) $103,473 1,601
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists (B, M, D) $78,052 187
Biologists (B, M) $103,473 1,601

(degree required: SM some college, C: Certificate, A: Associate degree, B: Bachelor’s degree, M: Master’s degree, D: Doctorate)