What You Will Learn
Biology is one of the most rapidly developing sciences due to the growing need for trained professionals in new, as well as traditional fields, including medical, environmental, research and veterinary. Enrolling in the Associate of Science (A.S.) in Biology Program at CCM allows you to complete courses that parallel those required and transfer to the first two years of most bachelor’s degree programs in biology, as well as those required for entry into the most popular professional programs such as medical, dental or veterinary schools. College programs may differ widely in course offerings for various biology majors. Therefore, the curriculum at CCM offers four tracks within biology in order to achieve maximum transfer of credits, it is essential that students speak to their CCM academic advisors and consult the transfer institution regarding specific curriculum requirements.
Studying biology at CCM enables you to:
- Define and explain the key ideas and foundational concepts in the biological sciences.
- Apply the correct use of biological instrumentation and proper laboratory and safety techniques.
- Explain and apply the scientific method including designing, conducting and analyzing experiments.
- Locate, analyze and evaluate scientific literature and synthesize the information obtained to effectively communicate scientific information in written or oral format.
- Identify and assess ethical issues as they pertain to the biological sciences.
- Solve problems in the biological sciences using appropriate mathematical concepts, critical-thinking skills, and technology.
- Identify the role played by the biological sciences as they relate to the individual and society.
Curriculum
CCM offers five tracks in the Biology Program.
Traditional – Track 1
- Track 1 is the traditional curriculum, which, because of its general scope, is anticipated to satisfy the needs of majority of students.
- Students in this program can continue in any direction. In certain circumstances, students may have to make up credits upon transferring.
Health Related – Track 2
- Intended only for students who are preparing to transfer directly to certain professional schools including chiropractic, occupational therapy and physician’s assistant programs.
- This program is not suitable for students wishing to apply to programs in medicine, dentistry, optometry or podiatry since this track has a more narrow selection of courses which may restrict transfer options.
Preprofessional/Biotechnology – Track 3
- Intended to meet the needs of those whose math and science skills are above average and who hope to transfer to the more competitive baccalaureate programs, professional schools or medical, veterinary or dental schools.
- Designed to meet the needs of students interested in biotechnology. • Biotechnology, the most rapidly growing sector in the field of biology and a major industry in New Jersey, is the application of life sciences to benefit humankind.
Environmental – Track 4
- Designed to meet the needs of students who are interested in environmental science, ecology and natural resources.
- These programs are becoming increasingly more specialized in the array of courses required in the first two years.
Teacher Education Biology – Track 5
- Students in this program are preparing to transfer to a four-year program that will prepare them to teach at the elementary to high school levels.
- The Teacher Education Program includes 10 other areas of specialization. Faculty advisors from both the biology and education departments advise students in this program as it is within a larger, multidisciplinary program, TEBIO.
Career Opportunities
A degree in Biology will prepare you for the following careers.
Associate Degree:
- Biological Technician
- Environmental Science Technician
- Lab Manager
- Occupational Health Safety Specialist
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Bachelor’s Degree & More:
- Biology Teacher
- Physicians Assistant
- Physician
- Registered Dietician
- Veterinarian
Where You Can Go
Upon graduation CCM Biology students frequently transfer to the following colleges and universities.
In-State:
- Rutgers University – New Brunswick
- Montclair State University
- Rutgers University – Newark
- William Paterson University
- Ramapo College
- Drew University
Out of State:
- Columbia University
- Delaware Valley University
- East Stroudsburg University
- Florida Gulf Coast University
- SUNY Stony Brook University
- West Virginia University
Graduates with an A.S. in Biology from CCM benefit from New Jersey’s Statewide Transfer Agreement. This means that the general education requirements will be waived at New Jersey public colleges and universities, allowing students to transfer in with junior standing. In addition, many other out-of-state institutions also accept CCM credits.
Why Study Biology at CCM?
Learn from enthusiastic and dedicated faculty members who have the knowledge and experience to guide students with a wide range of courses! Faculty members want students to achieve their goals in our state-of-the-art laboratories and with professional equipment that mimics that used in workforce. In addition, several faculty members have been nominated or won the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Award.
Class sizes are small and you’ll receive individual attention as well as supplemental help and free tutoring, if needed. Ultimately, CCM students will acquire a solid foundation of knowledge and critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Credit, non-credit internship experiences and job search support are facilitated through our Office of Career and Transfer Services, where you can also learn how to build a resume, and receive the tools to help you with interviewing skills to succeed!
Paying for Your Biology Education
Earning an associate degree is a powerful investment that will pay off over the course of your life, in both increased earnings and job satisfaction. But what is the upfront cost, and how do you afford it?
There’s good news: Money is available to help you pay for school! Our Financial Aid staff can provide lots of information about the process of finding funds to help pay for your education.
