STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics

Students sitting in the large quad of the Lindley Center on a sunny day

YOU BELONG IN STEAM!

Welcome to the Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics (STEAM) Cluster at Santa Rosa Junior College! Whether you're exploring your passions, preparing to transfer, or launching a career, our division offers innovative programs, hands-on learning, and dedicated faculty committed to your success. Classes in over 20 different programs are offered across multiple campus sites to provide flexible learning opportunities, and students have access to a range of support resources. Here, curiosity meets opportunity in a vibrant, inclusive environment where we support the diverse community of learners in Sonoma County and beyond.
 

Shone Farm crew planting seedlings in rows on the agriculture field

Agribusiness ● Animal Science ● Environmental Horticulture ● Floral Design ● natural Resources ● Sustainable Agriculture ● Veterinary Technology ● Viticulture ● Wildfire Resilience ● Wine Studies

The Agriculture & Natural Resources Department offers hands-on, science-based programs that prepare students for thriving careers in vital fields such as sustainable agriculture, animal science, viticulture, veterinary technology, environmental horticulture, and natural resource management. Students can explore disciplines ranging from crop and soil science to habitat restoration, gaining skills that lead to careers in winemaking, resource conservation, agricultural business, and environmental stewardship—or to advanced degrees in related fields. With a blend of classroom learning, real-world experience at SRJC’s Shone Farm, and connections to industry partners, the department strives to prepare students for work in some of the most important disciplines needed to sustain our food supply and ecosystem.

 

Student using a microscope in the Botany Lab

Anatomy Biology Botany Microbiology Physiology Pre-Allied Health 

The Biological Sciences Department offers robust associate degrees and transfer programs designed for two-primary student paths: those planning to transfer into biological sciences (e.g., ecology, genetics, anatomy, marine biology) and another for students preparing for allied health professions such as nursing or dental hygiene. With emphasis on hands-on laboratory work, field courses, and research opportunities, students gain strong scientific and analytical skills applicable to both university transfer and professional health-care settings. The department also supports student success through tutoring, internships, and direct pathways into high-demand careers, making it an excellent choice for learners seeking flexible, career-ready science training.

 

three students working together in chemistry lab

Chemistry Physics

The Chemistry & Physics offers rigorous, transfer-ready programs housed in the modern Lindley Center for STEM Education, where both chemistry and physics labs and classrooms are co-located to foster collaboration and access to advanced resources. With state-of-the-art instrumentation in the chemistry and physics labs courses that are aligned with major-university requirements, the department is well-equipped to help students transfer. Beyond technical excellence, the department emphasizes inclusive support through partnerships with programs like MESA and leads active student clubs and outreach efforts to empower under-represented students in STEM. 

 

Comet with bright core and glowing tail in space.

Astronomy Earth Science Environmental Science Geography Geology Meteorology Physical Science

The Earth & Space Sciences Department offers courses spanning geology, meteorology, astronomy, geography, and environmental science, giving students access to a broad range of disciplines about the natural world and universe. Students benefit from the hands-on opportunities such as telescope observations, meteorite collections, and field work, which help build strong scientific understanding and transfer readiness. Additionally, many of the department’s courses satisfy general education and transfer requirements, making department courses a compelling pathway for students preparing for further study or careers in environmental science, geosciences, education or Earth‐system research.

 

students working in makerspace lab

Engineering 3D Modeling & Animation ● Architecture ● Construction management ● Interior Design ● Civil Engineering & Surveying Technology ● Mechatronics ● Water Resources Technology

The Engineering & Applied Technology Department offers a diverse set of career education and transfer programs, where students will benefit from industry-aligned curricula and pathways that match multiple curiosities. Programs range from Engineering, which has long history of transferring students to top-tier 4-year colleges, and the Civil Engineering & Surveying Technology program which has a strong record of job placement and students passing industry certification exams since the 1960's. The department is dedicated to providing real-world context in its program, such as field trips, guest speakers, and job-site visits, to enhance the student educational experience. 

 

students taking notes during math class

Mathematics Statistics

The Mathematics Department provides a wide spectrum of courses—from including calculus, statistics, and math analysis—designed to support diverse student goals. Students benefit from access to the STEM Success Center, a drop-in tutoring and computer lab for all math levels, as well as specialized support courses and corequisites tailored to strengthen student readiness and success in challenging classes. With pathways for transfer students, academic tutoring, scholarship opportunities, and a department philosophy centered on quality teaching and student achievement, the Mathematics Department helps learners build confidence, succeed in quantitative coursework, and prepare for their next academic or career step.

 

two people harvesting tomatoes at Shone Farm

Vegetable Garden Orchards Pastures Vineyard

Shone Farm is SRJC’s 365-acre outdoor classroom and working farm in the Russian River Valley. Here, students gain hands-on experience growing grapes, vegetables, and flowers; raising livestock; and managing forests and natural resources. The farm produces wine, fresh produce, and other goods sold to the community, creating a unique blend of education, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. As both a laboratory for learning and a community resource, Shone Farm embodies the intersection of science, innovation, and environmental responsibility that drives STEAM at SRJC.

 

MESA & Avanzando

 

Equity-Minded, Inclusive Student Support

MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) at SRJC is a support program designed for students majoring in calculus-based STEM fields. It focuses on first-generation, low-income, and under-represented students who plan to transfer to a four-year university. MESA provides specialized academic counseling, tutoring, peer study groups, access to a dedicated STEM study center, professional development, and internship opportunities. By offering structured guidance, community, and academic resources tailored to STEM pathways, MESA helps students stay on track, build confidence, strengthen their STEM identity, and successfully transfer to complete their bachelor’s degrees.

Avanzando is SRJC’s HSI STEM (Hispanic-Serving Institution) initiative aimed at increasing the success and retention of Latinx, first-generation, and low-income students pursuing STEM and health-science pathways. The program offers academic support such as tutoring, workshops, peer mentors, and resources for all STEM courses to help students complete key gateway requirements. Avanzando also provides outreach, case-management, internships, and community-building activities to help students feel connected and supported. Its holistic approach helps students navigate college more confidently, persist in STEM fields, and prepare for transfer or careers in STEM and health sciences.