Title
Biology Transfer Pathway
Associate of Science (AS) - 60 credits
About this program
An Associate of Science-Pathway degree (AS-P) is awarded upon completion of an academic program in scientific, technological or other professional fields and is titled "Biology (Minnesota State Transfer Pathway)." Transfer pathway programs are designed to provide transfer of all courses within the AS pathway into designated baccalaureate degree programs identified by system universities.
This degree is designed for students interested in the various fields of biological sciences such as cell biology, bioengineering, environmental science, fish and wildlife management, forestry, genetics and microbiology. Students majoring in biological sciences may also be interested in the following program areas: biochemistry, chemistry, pre-chiropractic, pre-dentistry, pre-medicine, pre-medical technology, pre-optometry, pre-pharmacy and pre-veterinary medicine. The curriculum should be used as a guide since required courses vary considerably among four-year institutions and professional schools. Students planning a degree in biological sciences or one of the above fields should contact the biology department and work with an advisor. A visit to the intended transfer institution by the spring of the first year is highly recommended.
Program outcomes
- Scientific method: Science is a process of trial and error by which we hope to improve our understanding of the natural world incrementally by making predictions, testing them and improving their accuracy. The scientific method includes the ability to propose testable hypotheses and carry out experiments to test them, and relies on standardized international systems of measurement.
- Data interpretation and statistical analysis: Students should be able to analyze simple data sets using appropriate descriptive and inferential statistics.
- Navigating and reading scientific literature: Students should be able to use public literature databases to find appropriate published material. Students should be able to read, understand and evaluate the validity and importance of the scientific literature and to integrate new concepts into their existing knowledge frameworks.
- Scientific communication: Students should be able to communicate their own and others' data and analysis in oral and written format, using computers where necessary to visualize data or to create clear and compelling papers, posters or presentations.
- Science and society/civic engagement: Students should be able to analyze scientific studies in light of their ecological, social, economic, ethical and cultural implications.
- Collaboration: Students should learn to communicate and work productively with others in designing, conducting and evaluating projects, experiments and other course-related deliverables as an essential skill in science.
- Interdisciplinary nature of science: Science depends upon knowledge, skills and tools from other scientific and nonscientific disciplines. Students should develop their ability to utilize other disciplines as sources of context and skills to inform the learning and work they are engaged in.
- Microscopy: The microscope is a tool used extensively in biology for observation and investigation. Skill development in basic light microscopy and exposure to more advanced forms of microscopy and digital imaging is fundamental to further study in biology.
Accreditation
Minnesota State Community and Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. More information can be found at
www.minnesota.edu/accreditation.
