Mar 19, 2024  
2019-2020 Online Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Online Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Biology, A.S.


Program Description


Biology is a natural science that studies life and living organisms. This Associate of Science in Biology program at Union County College, which includes courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and liberal arts, is designed for transfer to a bachelor’s program in biology or another closely related discipline. The biology program includes opportunities to engage in undergraduate research and to publish in academic journals. These experiences provide students with training in the scientific method and an introduction to research techniques, preparing them for transfer to competitive schools in the tri-state and across the country.

The College has articulation agreements with four-year colleges in New Jersey and beyond. Students should work with a transfer advisor for more information.

This program assumes the completion of all prerequisites for the mathematics courses or satisfactory performance on the Advanced Algebra & Functions exam. 

All students enrolled in the Biology program are encouraged to take the Advanced Algebra & Functions exam to determine advanced mathematics placement. Test scores will determine the sequence of mathematics courses required.

Contact the STEM Division for further information.

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates will be able to:

  • Explain the scientific method, including the reasoning process inherent in scientific inquiry, and the dynamic nature of scientific knowledge;
  • Analyze biological data;
  • Evaluate the impact of mankind and technology on the natural world and their ethical implications;
  • Utilize critical thinking skills to understand and solve biological problems, differentiating scientific fact from opinion;
  • Communicate the terminology, concepts, and principles of biology effectively in written, verbal, and electronic formats;
  • Demonstrate competency in utilizing information technology to expand their current and future knowledge.

After Union County College


Graduates can take advantage of the many transfer/articulation agreements Union County College has with some of the top four-year colleges and universities in the country. See a transfer advisor for details.

Recommended Sequence


First Year


Semester Total: 15

Semester Total: 15

Second Year


Fall Semester


Semester Total: 15

Spring Semester


Semester Total: 15

Total Program Credits: 60


Students must complete all developmental English courses before taking any credit level Biology course.

Milestone Courses


The milestones (in bold) identify critical courses for timely progress and the semester in which the course should be completed for on-time graduation.  Milestone course grades < 2.0 should be discussed with an advisor.

Career and Transfer Information