Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Associate's Degree in two years. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). The plan includes four semesters, each with an average course load of 15 units, and follows the Plan 1 General Education pattern. You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

The associate degree in biotechnology prepares students for careers in a wide variety of industry or for curriculum at a four-year institutions leading to a baccalaureate degree in such areas as molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology and microbiology.  These fields provide career opportunities in biomanufacturing, research and development, and teaching. See counseling for transfer requirements.

Students who complete this degree will obtain an A.S degree in biotechnology, will have obtained proficiency in basic and more advanced laboratory skills, and will have been exposed to fundamental theory and general education necessary to transfer and succeed in related Bachelor’s degree programs.  By having a coordinated collaboration between four campuses in Orange County, students will benefit by having multiple opportunities to seek to experience extracurricular informational events in the field of biotechnology.  This degree meets the needs of the emerging and growing biotechnology sector in Orange County.  Although this program is a coordinated collaboration between colleges, no formal MOU has been signed.  Additionally, a student can choose to enroll in this program, take all of the courses, and graduate with a degree from Santa Ana College.  Students do not have to take courses at the other campuses. 

Students will know how genetically engineer a gene, subclone and express it to obtain a purified sample of a genetically engineered protein.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

First Semester

17-18 units

Second Semester

15 units

Third Semester

16 units

Fourth Semester

13 units