Associate of Science | 60 credits

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Program Description

The Biology Department offers a program leading to an associate of science degree. The required courses in this program will give a student an excellent and broad foundation on which to further their studies. Most of the courses in the program have required laboratory components to allow first-hand experience in the study of biology. A laboratory fee is charged for laboratory courses. Upon finishing the requirements for an AS degree in biology, and after acceptance into a major program, a student should be able to obtain a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution with two additional years of study. A full year of inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus and physics is highly recommended for any student transferring to a four-year institution.

Career Opportunities

An Associate’s Degree in Biology can offer employment opportunities as a technician in the field of conservation, environmental science or health with a median wage of about $40,000/year in the state of Utah, according to the Department of Workforce services (2024). Upon completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, the career opportunities increase substantially to include Health Science professionals, Microbiologists, Wildlife Biologists and Forensic Scientists to name a few. The median wage also increases to about $70,000 annually, both in Utah and nationally (UDWS, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024). 

Transfer/Articulation Information

Please refer to the Student Resources section of the SLCC University Transfer webpage.

Estimated Cost for Students

Tuition and student fees: http://www.slcc.edu/student/financial/tuition-fees.aspx  
Course Fees: $180

Note: Fees vary based upon specific registration and are subject to changes.

Program Entry Requirements

Preparation Note: Students who need to take preparatory classes to meet the requirements of first semester courses should plan on extra time to complete the program. For a student majoring in biology, MATH 1210 - Calculus I (QL)  is considered the entry-level math class. MATH 1050 - College Algebra (QL)   is a pre-requisite for some of the required courses. Students should check the semester class schedule for day/evening availability, locations and modifications caused by varying enrollment. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their Program Advisor to discuss their course schedules and course taking pathway.