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.

Biology is a broad discipline that can lead to a variety of employment opportunities or academic majors. To allow students a little more flexibility in matching the Biology AS to their future career path, we are providing two options of emphasis: (1) Anatomy and Physiology Emphasis and (2) Integrative Biology Emphasis. The Anatomy and Physiology Emphasis will help prepare pre-medical, pre-physician’s assistant, pre-pharmacy, and pre-dental students to meet prerequisite requirements to apply for professional schools. The Integrative Biology Emphasis is for those students interested in pursuing careers in molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, evolutionary biology, wildlife biology, research, or meeting prerequisites to apply to veterinary school. Students wishing to pursue nursing, dental hygiene, respiratory therapist, radiologic technology, occupational therapy assistant, physical therapist assistant, or similar careers should pursue the Health Science AS degree.

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 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). A Bachelor’s Degree in Biology can also help meet prerequisites for application to medical, physician’s assistant, pharmacy, dental, and veterinary schools. 

Transfer/Articulation Information

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

Estimated Cost for Students

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. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their Program Advisor to discuss their course schedules and course taking pathway.