| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-03-01 | - |
| 2025-06-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-03-01 | - |
| 2026-06-01 | - |
Program Overview
Associate of Arts in Zoology
Program Description
Zoology is a branch of biology that studies animal life (e.g., physiology, classification, structure). Upon completion of the Associate of Arts in Zoology degree, students will have gained an understanding of the fundamental principles of biology and of the scientific process, and will be able to demonstrate the analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills needed for continuing academic achievement and professional success. The Associate of Arts in Zoology degree is designed to give students a foundational degree to serve those students who wish to enter the workforce prepared with an associate degree. It may also be used as a basis for further study in biology or a related field.
Salary, Growth, and Careers
Salary
Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $48,000 to over $239,000 with an average salary of $120,000.
Growth
Career opportunities for this program are expected to grow nationwide from 2022 to 2032.
Careers
- Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
- Education Level: Doctoral or professional degree
- Job Growth: +3%
- Average Salary: $91,000
- Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
- Education Level: Doctoral or professional degree
- Job Growth: +8.6%
- Average Salary: $132,000
- Biological Technicians
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Job Growth: +4.7%
- Average Salary: $67,000
- Natural Sciences Managers
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Job Growth: +4.8%
- Average Salary: $208,000
- Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
- Education Level: Doctoral or professional degree
- Job Growth: +5.9%
- Average Salary: $105,000
Program Map
Associate of Arts in Zoology
- 69.0 Units
- Major Course
- General Education Course
- Elective Course
- Milestone
- Offers Microcredential
Program Pathway
- Fall 2024: 1st Term (12.0 Units)
- ZOOL 120: Introduction to Animal Biology (4.0 Units)
- MATH 114: College Algebra (4.0 Units)
- CHEM 110: Elementary Chemistry (4.0 Units)
- Spring 2025: 2nd Term (16.0 Units)
- CHEM 111: General Chemistry (5.0 Units)
- MATH 116: Calculus for Managerial, Biological and Social Sciences (4.0 Units)
- English Composition (4.0 Units)
- Arts and Humanities (3.0 Units)
- Summer 2025: 3rd Term (4.0 Units)
- BIOL 120: Introduction To Biological Science (4.0 Units)
- Fall 2025: 4th Term (16.0 Units)
- BIOL 200: Principles of Biology (5.0 Units)
- CHEM 112: General Chemistry (5.0 Units)
- Critical Thinking (3.0 Units)
- U.S. Government (3.0 Units)
- Spring 2026: 5th Term (15.0 Units)
- BIOL 201: Principles of Biology (5.0 Units)
- U.S. History (3.0 Units)
- Proficiency: Health & Wellness (1.0 Units)
- Oral Communication (3.0 Units)
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (3.0 Units)
- Summer 2026: 6th Term (6.0 Units)
- Arts (3.0 Units)
- Humanities (3.0 Units)
Program Outline
Degree Overview
The Associate of Arts (AA) in Zoology at Cerritos College provides students with a foundational understanding of animal life, encompassing physiology, classification, and structure. The program aims to equip graduates with foundational principles in biology and the scientific process, alongside critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills for continued academic and professional success. This degree serves as a stepping stone for students entering the workforce or seeking further academic pursuits.
Outline
Program Content and Structure
The AA in Zoology curriculum focuses on delivering essential knowledge in animal biology, encompassing diverse aspects such as:
- Physiological processes: Understanding how animal bodies function, including digestion, respiration, circulation, and reproduction.
- Animal diversity and classification: Exploring the vast array of animal life forms and their taxonomic organization across various groups.
- Animal structure: Delving into the anatomy of animals, examining different organ systems and their functions. The program incorporates various instructional formats to facilitate learning:
- Lectures: Traditional classroom sessions where instructors deliver core concepts and engage students in interactive discussions.
- Laboratory exercises: Hands-on activities and experiments that reinforce theoretical knowledge through practical application.
- Fieldwork: Experiential learning opportunities to observe and study animals in their natural environments. The AA in Zoology typically spans over five semesters, with a course schedule structured as follows:
Fall Semester 1:
- Introduction to Animal Biology
- College Algebra
- Elementary Chemistry
Spring Semester 2:
- General Chemistry
- Calculus for Managerial, Biological, and Social Sciences
- English Composition
- Arts and Humanities Elective
Summer Semester 3:
- Introduction To Biological Science
Fall Semester 4:
- Principles of Biology
- General Chemistry II
- Critical Thinking Elective
- U.S. Government Elective
Spring Semester 5:
- Principles of Biology II
- U.S. History Elective
- Health and Wellness Elective
- Oral Communication Elective
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Elective
Summer Semester 6:
- Arts Elective
- Humanities Elective
Individual Modules and Descriptions
The AA in Zoology program incorporates a variety of modules, each addressing specific areas of animal biology. However, the program likely covers topics such as:
- Animal Evolution: Exploring the historical development and diversification of animal life on Earth.
- Animal Behavior: Investigating the mechanisms and causes behind animal actions and interactions.
- Ecology: Understanding the relationships between animals and their environments.
- Genetics: Examining the role of genes in shaping animal traits and inheritance patterns.
- Conservation Biology: Learning about efforts to protect endangered species and maintain biodiversity.
Assessment
The AA in Zoology program employs various assessment methods to gauge student learning and understanding. These methods may include:
- Examinations: Written tests and quizzes covering course content and concepts.
- Assignments: Individual and group projects, essays, and presentations demonstrating knowledge application and analysis.
- Laboratories: Practical assessments involving data analysis, report writing, and experimentation.
- Presentations: Opportunities for students to showcase their research, findings, and critical thinking skills through oral communication.
Teaching
The AA in Zoology program benefits from a dedicated faculty with expertise in animal biology and related fields. The instructional methods employed focus on creating an engaging and interactive learning environment. Some of the teaching approaches may include:
- Active learning strategies: Encouraging students to participate in discussions, problem-solving activities, and collaborative projects to enhance understanding and retention.
Careers
The AA in Zoology program equips graduates with a strong foundation in animal biology, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in various fields. Potential career paths for graduates may include:
- Zookeeper: Caring for animals in zoos and aquariums, ensuring their welfare and providing educational experiences for visitors.
- Wildlife biologist: Conducting research and monitoring wildlife populations to inform conservation efforts and management plans.
- Veterinary technician: Assisting veterinarians in providing medical care to animals, performing diagnostic tests, and administering treatments.
- Animal trainer: Working with animals to teach them specific behaviors for various purposes, such as entertainment, assistance, or research.
- Environmental educator: Teaching individuals about the importance of animal conservation, environmental issues, and sustainable practices.
Other
- The AA in Zoology program prepares students for potential transfer to four-year institutions to pursue further studies in related fields such as biology, zoology, or veterinary science.
- Graduates of the AA in Zoology program are well-equipped to contribute to research, education, conservation, or other initiatives that promote animal well-being and sustainable ecosystems.
