Biological Sciences Major
Study Life and Living Organisms
Earn a Degree in Biology
Learn about all the organisms that surround you every day. Study cells, the human body, infectious diseases, biology, and ecology.
Every function of every living being, is within the focus of Biological Sciences at Mission college.
- Earn an Associates's degree in Biology.
- Take courses that satisfy UC and Cal State transfer requirements.
- Work towards a career in healthcare, research, or academia.
- Participate in field studies in the greater Bay Area and Costa Rica.
Biology Courses
- Take courses in biology, microbiology, genetics, and more.
- Honors courses are available.
- PDF of all Biology courses.
Study Abroad in Costa Rica
Travel to Costa Rica for Spring Break! Scholarships are available. Activities include naturalist-led walks, snorkeling, guided night hikes, birdwatching, and a visit to a butterfly garden.
March 25 - April 1 2023
I am a first-generation college student and was accepted to UC Davis, UC San Diego, and UCLA. I ended up choosing the Aggies. I graduated from UC Davis in large part because she earned one of the prestigious $40,000 Jack Kent Cooke scholarships while at Mission College.
Jyodi Mohole '14
Transfer Student to UC Davis then Attended UCLA Medical School
STEM at Mission
Honors Program
MESA
Nutrition
Nursing Programs
Biological Sciences Courses
Courses to Consider
Tropical Ecology (BIO 030, 030L, 031L)
Explore rainforest inhabitants and their relationships, and learn about their value and conservation. 030L is a field study abroad in Costa Rica.
Anatomy & Physiology for Allied Health Workers (BIO 022)
An overview of the normal structure and function of the human body. The course provides a foundation for the study of disease and dysfunction in the clinical setting.
General Biology: Cells (BIO 001A)
A comprehensive introduction to cell and molecular biology designed for students pursuing degrees in biology, medicine, or pharmacy.
General Biology: Organisms (BIO 001B)
Examine the unity and diversity of multicellular life, ecological, and evolutionary principles, as well as form/function relationships in plants and animals.
Marine Biology (BIO 016)
An introduction to ocean ecology and marine life. Topics are explored through classroom learning and field trips to local marine habitats and research facilities.
Environmental Biology (BIO 025)
Designed for students of all disciplines to introduce concepts including population growth and control, environmental problems, genetic manipulation, nutrition, energy issues, etc.
Biological Sciences Careers
Skills Needed
- Analytical Skills
- Attention to detail
- Organization and planning
- Effective Communication skills
- Strong computer skills
- Expertise with scientific tools and lab instruments
Explore Career Paths
If you don't know what to major in, or you already have a major but don't know how it translates into a career, start here. At Mission we can help you research your major and career options so you can make informed decisions. Read more about Career paths.
Biological Sciences Major Career Options
- Registered Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse
- Natural sciences teacher
- Wildlife Biologist
- Marine Biologist
- Pharmacist
- Physician
- Veterinarian
- Microbiologist
Please note that most jobs for students in the Biological Sciences require more than two years of college education. If you attend Mission College, the Transfer Center can assist you in seamlessly transitioning to a four-year college or university.