Biology
Associate in Science (Transfer)
Biology is a broad field centered on the study of living organisms and processes. As a biologist, you can study everything from humans, plants, and animals, to microbes and mushrooms, from single cells to whole ecosystems, and the environments in which they all live.
1,000
community pumpkins composted by S.A.F.E., the Student Association for the Environment
The biology program prepares students for success in continued biology education. Many occupations depend on an interest in and an aptitude for life science. Biology offers a wide range of career options. Local alumni work at Wildlife Prairie Park, The Nature Conservancy, the USDA National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, OSF, and Carle Health.
Admissions Office
Faculty who are experts in their fields teach all ICC courses. They are 100% committed to teaching so you’re ready to transfer to a university or move into your career.
Network with faculty and fellow students in the Student Association for the Environment while making a difference to our local ecosystems. The PreHealth Club and other student groups put the community in our community college experience.
Forester, Conservation Biologist, Biological Technician or Researcher, Biochemist, Zoologist, Botanist, Ecologist, Oceanographer, Teacher, Fisheries or Wildlife Manager, Park Ranger, Pharmacologist, Genetic Counselor, Dentist, Physician, and many more.
COMPLETION TIME
18 Months
If full time
4 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our program can be completed at your pace; just plan for a longer time-to-degree.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,600
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Our STEM programs qualify for financial aid. That might include scholarships, grants and loans. Learn more about financial assistance at ICC.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
30
Students per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
Will I be ready to transfer?
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
Biology is an absolutely gigantic field – you can specialize in ancient life, current biodiversity, microscopic life, giant organisms, quantum biology, molecular biology, forensic science, medicine, cell biology, systems biology, environmental biology, exobiology – there’s a place for every interest in this field.
Jen Fenner, Dean of Math, Science, and Engineering
How Do I Get Into the Biology Program?
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just one easy application for over hundreds of scholarships.
- High school courses in Math and Biology are beneficial for this program.
What Can I Expect as a Biology Student?
- The biology program builds knowledge and skills that prepare students for success in continued biology education.
- Students who complete the program acquire a broad foundation of biological knowledge and skills.
- Work with an advisor to develop a plan that meets your personal and academic goals.
- Graduates have transferred to Illinois State University, Bradley University, University of Illinois, Southern Illinois University, and many others.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.