Program Description
If you have an interest in plants, animals, microbes, the medical field, or an interest in how humans can impact the environment, a degree in the biological sciences may be perfect for you. This program offers a selection of biology and other natural and physical science-related courses for students wishing to pursue a program of study in biology. This basic transfer program comprises the first two years of a baccalaureate degree in biology. Biology introduces the student to the biological principles common to all living things, with emphasis on evolution, molecular biology, diversity, ecology, physiology and genetics. This option is also appropriate for students seeking pre-med, pre-dental, or pre-pharmaceutical degrees.
Associate Degree Programs in Biological Sciences
Biological Sciences with Areas of Concentration (Associate of Science)
The Associate of Science Biological Sciences provides a course of study for students with concentrations in either Biology, Environmental Science, or Biomedical Science. The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of students who plan to transfer to a college or a university that grants a Baccalaureate Degree in various areas of Biological Science, Environmental Science, or Health Sciences.
Required Courses & Learning Outcomes
Refer to the college catalog for a list of required courses and learning outcomes for the Biological Sciences degree program.
Certificate Programs in Biological Sciences
Biological Laboratory Skills
This certificate will provide students skills needed for an entry level position in industrial or research labs in such fields as biotechnology, bioproduction, or biopharmaceuticals. It also provides an introductory pathway to a two-year degree or further in Biological studies.
Required Courses & Learning Outcomes
Refer to the college catalog for a list of required courses and learning outcomes for the Biological Laboratory Skills certificate program.
Pre-Veterinary Technician
This certificate is designed to provide a basis for further study in the veterinary technician field. The Veterinary Technician Certificate provides a course of study designed to meet the needs of students who plan to study and transfer to a college or a university that grants an Associate or Baccalaureate Degree in Veterinary Medicine Technology.
Required Courses & Learning Outcomes
Refer to the college catalog for a list of required courses and learning outcomes for the Pre-Veterinary Technician certificate program.
Admissions & Advising
Cecil College is an open enrollment institution. Get more information, find out how to apply, or meet with an advisor.
Transfer
Whether transferring coursework to Cecil College or transferring your completed degree or certificate to a four-year institution, transfer is a viable option to help meet your educational goals.
Cecil College has strong partnerships related to the biological sciences with Maryland colleges and universities as well as other schools in nearby states.
Transfer information for Maryland colleges and universities is available through the Articulation System of Maryland (ARTSYS) website at www.artsys.usmd.edu. Additional transfer information can be found on the Transfer Agreements page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a degree in the biological sciences?
An associate degree in biology gives students a firm foundation in the biological sciences and is the first step towards a career in fields such as: biology, medicine, dentistry, allied health careers, communication outreach with government agencies, education, field consultation, laboratory research, pharmacy, research and development.
An associate degree in environmental science will serve students entering the fields of: environmental earth sciences, environmental law, environmental chemistry, environmental policy, environmental engineering, waste management, environmental economics, environmental health, marine science, applied ecology, biodiversity, and conservation.
Can I earn college credit for taking AP Biology in high school?
If you earned a 4 or better on the AP Biology Examination, it will transfer as credit for BIO 101/BIO 111 or BIO 130/BIO131 or BIO 132/BIO133. If you earned a 4 or better on the AP Environmental Science Examination, it will transfer as credit for ENV 106/ENV 116.
What are the opportunities for field experience?
Biology and environmental science students at Cecil College have many opportunities during their studies to examine biological principles in the real world with field trips to regional zoos and botanical gardens, water treatment facilities, and local landfills. Regional nature centers such as North Bay and Fair Hill provide opportunities for hands-on fieldwork.
Is there any opportunity for student employment in the biology department?
There are definitely opportunities for student employment in our biology labs. Students who qualify for work study are encouraged to apply for a position as a lab assistant. Lab assistants gain valuable experience by helping to organize and prepare lab experiments for biology, chemistry, microbiology, and anatomy & physiology.
Where have Cecil College biology/environmental science majors gone following graduation?
Our graduates transfer to universities including: University of Maryland Baltimore County, University of Maryland College Park, Towson University, and University of Delaware. Many of our graduates who earn a degree in the biological sciences have gone on to 4-year institutions to major in pre-med, biology, wildlife ecology & conservation, medical laboratory science, environmental science & technology, medical illustration, as well as many other fields.
Career Information
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Faculty
Full-time Faculty
Christine Warwick
Science & Technology, Chair; Assistant Professor of Biology
M.S., University of St. Joseph
Graduate certificate in Emerging Diseases, University of Saint Joseph
Meredith Dillenger
Assistant Professor of Biology
M.Ed., Cabrini University
Melissa Burke
Associate Professor of Biology
M.A., University of Maryland
Heather Cadogan
Associate Professor of Biology
M.S., Clemson University
Susan Marengo
Associate Professor of Biology
Ph.D., Colorado State University, School of Veterinary Medicine
Benjamin Rohe
Professor of Biology
Ed.D., University of Delaware
Adjunct Faculty
Our adjunct faculty in the biological sciences hold advanced degrees in their fields and bring a wide array of experience into the classroom.