The Marine Science Department Award comprises 21 units and signifies that students have a broad background in the physical and biological processes of the world's oceans and the tools and techniques with which they are studied.The curriculum includes courses from Biology, Marine Technology and Earth & Planetary Sciences and is especially suited to students interested in the fields of mariculture, boating and recreation, skin and SCUBA diving, fishing, scientific research and marine science education. It is important that the student pursuing the Marine Science Award consult with the Faculty Adviser early to formulate a program of study and to ensure space in classes.

The Biological Sciences Department offers a diverse set of courses and degrees that prepare students for advancement in the areas of cellular and molecular biology, ecology and evolution, health science, environmental studies, natural history, and marine science. Additionally, numerous courses designed for non-majors provide opportunities to fulfill Natural Science lecture and lab requirements while developing a foundational understanding of the complexity and diversity of organisms, as well as how humans and other species function as individuals and as components of ecosystems.

The department’s five associate degrees are designed to provide the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for successful transfer to a four-year institution or professional program. The Biological Sciences Associate in Arts (AA) and Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees provide preparation for job opportunities and transfer in areas such as Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Marine Biology, Pharmacology, and Pre-Medicine. The Natural History AA Degree provides preparation for transfer in areas such as Natural History and Fisheries & Wildlife Management, and can be completed fully online. The Liberal Arts AA: Bio-Medical Sciences Emphasis and the Nutrition and Dietetics AS-T degrees offer a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing a career in the health sciences.

Students can also pursue Departmental Awards in the areas of Biomedical Sciences, Marine Sciences, and Natural History.

SBCC offers a Transfer Agreement Guarantee (TAG). A TAG is a contractual agreement between the student, SBCC, and specific four-year colleges or universities. This includes six University of California ( *UC) institutions, six California State Institutions (CSU), seven California private institutions, nine out-of-state institutions, as well as Honors Transfer Agreements with ten institutions and 8 CSUs without campus impaction. Students must enroll in the TAG program and work with a TAG advisor.