The goals of the Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation Associate degree are to educate students in diverse areas of ecological and environmental science in order to understand conservation of the biodiversity found in the natural world. Students will receive a broad overview of topics such as ecological patterns, biodiversity, extinction, conservation, and evolution. The degree may exceed 60 units if students select higher unit courses. Through this associate degree, the student will develop the ability to think logically, analyze data, apply critical thinking and scientific methodology, and develop problem-solving skills necessary for success in any field of study. The coursework exposes students to the stunning biological resources and deep interconnections of natural systems. This degree is designed for students who have a passionate interest in the natural world who wish to pursue employment opportunities in natural resources within the parks, open space and land management fields. These positions include field research assistants, open space technicians, park interpreters or maintainers, natural resource managers or environmental advocates with governmental and non-governmental organizations. The Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation degree can also be used for transfer to four-year universities (with the appropriate course selection) where students will have the opportunity to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Biology, Ecology, and Evolutionary Biology, Marine Biology, Evolution and Ecology, Integrative Biology, Evolution, Ecology & Biodiversity, Environmental Science, Ecology, Behavior and Evolution, Conservation Biology, Wildlife Management, Conservation, and Resource Studies. Career Options: Agricultural Biologist, Biochemist, Biologist, Botanist, Entomologist, Environmental Specialist, Fish and Game Technical Aide, Fish and Game Warden, Park Ranger, Conservation Science, Forester, Horticulturist, Habitat Restoration, Ecologist, Laboratory Technician, Marine Biologist, Citizen Science Coordinator, Climate Change Biology, Environmental Lawyer, Environmental outreach and education, Park Naturalist/Ranger, Research Assistant, Conservation Biologist/technician, Conservation Researcher, Trail Docent, Researcher, Scientific Illustrator, Educator, Technical/ Science Writer, Naturalist, Park Management, Veterinarian, Wildlife Biologist/consultant, Wildlife technician, Zoo Curator, Zoologist, Field Biologist, Nature Interpreter, Environmental Consultant, Environmental Technician, Environmental Policy and Management, Green Technology.

Required Core Courses. (14-21 units)

List A: Select 2 courses different from above (6-9 units)

List B: Select a minimum of 2 courses from below, or one course may be from List A (5-10 units)

Total Major Units: 25-40 units

To be awarded an Associate Degree, a student must:

1. Achieve a grade of “C” or better in the major requirements.
2. Completion of WVC, CSU-Breadth, or IGETC General Education patterns. Students whose goal is to obtain a bachelor’s degree should complete the CSU-Breadth or IGETC General Education pattern.
3. Complete additional degree applicable units to meet the minimum 60-unit Associate Degree requirements.