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.

A Quality Education

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.

Get Involved

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.

Career Opportunities

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 full-time semesters
15-16 credits per semester


What if I attend part-time?

Our program can be completed at your pace; just plan for a longer time-to-degree.

ESTIMATED COST

$9,920

+ supplies & fees

Based on 2023-24


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

First-Generation Student Success
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Notable Alumni: Michael Brown, Executive Director, Ecology Action Center
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Silas Finds Opportunity and Support During His Pre-Med Studies
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CTE Programs Lead River to Prestigious Scholarship Opportunity
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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, Professor, Biology
Let’s Get Started ▸
 

How Do I Get Into the Biology Program?

  1. Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
  2. Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
  3. Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 700 scholarships.
  4. High school courses in Math and Biology are beneficial for this program.

What Can I Expect as a Biology Student?

How Am I Going to Manage This?

Admissions

Edwards Library / Administration Building » L220C
East Peoria Campus
Mon-Fri: 8 am – 4:30 pm