Biological Sciences, A.A.
Prairie State College’s Biological Sciences A.A. program offers comprehensive coursework in biology, chemistry, and related sciences. This degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year university or pursue entry-level careers in health, research, or environmental fields, laying a solid foundation for a future in science.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Biology?
With this degree, you can transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s
degree in biology, health sciences, or environmental studies. It also prepares you
for entry-level positions in laboratories, healthcare support, environmental conservation,
or research assistance. The program provides a solid foundation for further education
and careers in fields such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, ecology, or
science education.
Graduates with an Associate of Arts in Biological Sciences are well-positioned to
transfer to four-year colleges or universities to complete bachelor's degrees in biology,
biochemistry, environmental science, or related fields. Careers in healthcare, research,
environmental management, and education are also accessible with further specialization.
The demand for professionals in health sciences, environmental protection, and scientific
research remains strong, offering promising job prospects and opportunities for advancement.
Suggested Curriculum
Biology is a broad and diverse field with career opportunities in research, environmental
agencies, industry, sales, and education. It also provides a foundation for health
careers. Bachelor’s programs vary in focus, from molecular biology to ecology and
evolution. Students should choose their specialization early and are encouraged to
complete the Associate in Arts degree before transferring.
Area A: Communication (9 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (9 credits)
Select three courses from the list for Area B with at least one course from humanities and one course from fine arts.
Area C: Mathematics (5 credits)
- MATH 171 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (M1 900-1; MTH 901)
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (9 credits)
- BIOL 112 Organismal Biology (L1 910L; BIO 910) *
- CHEM 110 General Chemistry I (P1 902L; CHM 911)
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (9 credits)
Select three courses in at least two different disciplines from the list for Area E.
- BIOL 111 Cellular and Molecular Biology (IAI: BIO 910; L1 910L) *
- CHEM 130 General Chemistry II (CHM 912)
- CHEM 203 Organic Chemistry I (CHM 913)
- CHEM 204 Organic Chemistry II (CHM 914)
Select additional courses from the list of Courses Approved for Transfer or contact the universities you are considering.
Competency through the fourth semester in college or four years in high school of a single foreign language is required for the B.A. degree in History in some universities, and for all majors in the College of Arts and Sciences at many universities.
*Students are advised to complete the two course biological sciences sequence before transferring. Students who complete only one course may have to repeat that course, since material may be arranged differently by another institution.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Faculty Contact Information
Christine Brooms
Professor, Coordinator, Chemistry Department Chair, Natural Sciences
Email: cbrooms@prairiestate.edu
Phone: 709-3604
Office: 2297
April McDonnell
Science Lab Coordinator
Email: amcdonnell@prairiestate.edu
Phone: 709-7760
Office: 3145
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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