Students collaborating in a biology lab

Biology

Why Biology?

Biology is the study of life and living systems. From molecules and cells to organisms, ecosystems, and the environment. It helps us understand how living organisms function, interact, and adapt, and how scientific discoveries improve health, protect the environment, and shape our everyday lives.

In the Biology Department, students explore core biological concepts through hands-on laboratory experiences, critical thinking, and real-world applications. Our courses are designed to support a variety of goals, including transfer to four-year institutions, preparation for allied health and science careers, and personal exploration of the natural world. Biology provides a strong foundation for future study and career success.

Program Details

Associate in Science

Format
On Campus, Online, Hybrid
In-District Tuition
$169/credit hour
Out-of-District Tuition
$337/credit hour
Degree
View Degree
Average Time to Complete
2 years
Financial Options
Financial Aid is available.

Program Highlights

You'll learn about cutting-edge developments in fields like genetics and microbiology. Evolution, anatomy and physiology, as well as connections between plants, animals and society will also be explored. By completing an associate degree with emphasis in biological sciences you'll be able to: 

  • observe, hypothesize, experiment, and form conclusions 
  • integrate knowledge from multiple biological disciplines
  • communicate ideas logically and effectively

 

Degree - Associate in Science

Within our Associate in Science degree, there may be specific courses that are recommended for your major at your chosen transfer school. It’s important to meet with an academic advisor each semester to ensure that the correct coursework is taken, while earning your degree.

Even if your specific concentration or major is not listed on our application or program pages, academic advisors can help ensure you are taking the right coursework for your chosen major.

Learn more about the general education requirements for an Associate in Science. 

Transfer Guide

Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) 

Heartland Community College is a participant in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI), a statewide transfer agreement among more than 100 colleges and universities in Illinois. IAI courses have been approved for transfer to an Illinois public university. For more information about the Illinois Articulation Initiative, please visit the IAI website. 

General Education Core Curriculum Requirement

For the completion of the Associate in Science degree, you will need to complete a minimum of 41 general education core hours as part of the 60-credit hour degree. The remaining credit hours are electives. Please click on the category to view what courses Heartland has to offer within each of the required categories.

View what courses Heartland has to offer within each of the required categories:
Communications 
Fine Arts 
Humanities 
Life Sciences 
Mathematics 
Physical Sciences 
Social & Behavioral Sciences

  • $0

    Application Fee

  • 70+

    Programs of Study

  • 19

    Average Class Size

Careers in Biology

Because you'll develop a diverse set of skills as biology student, several career opportunities will be available to you. You could go into programs leading to professional careers in allied health fields. Popular options include:
  • Nursing 
  • Radiography 
  • Physical Therapy/Physical Therapist Assistant 
  • Physician Assistant 
By continuing your studies at a four-year institution, you can prepare for employment in areas such as: 
  • Conservation Biology 
  • Environmental Sciences 
  • Exercise Science 
  • Agriculture 
  • Animal Sciences 
  • Education 
A biology degree is also excellent preparation for medical or veterinary school.

Employment for biological technicians is projected to grow 9% from 2021 to 2031 as research and development will create new jobs related to health issues.*

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Biological Technicians, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biological-technicians.htm.

 

Alumni Stories

My experience in Heartland's Biology program was truly transformative. The professors went beyond teaching to provide mentorship, combining hands-on lab work with real-world research opportunities that prepared me for my career. Thanks to their support, I'm now working as a research technician at BroMenn Hospital, where I use what I learned every day. Heartland gave me both the skills and confidence to succeed in the sciences."
Jacob Carter, Class of 2021
Research Technician at BroMenn Hospital

Contact Information

Science Department

ICB 2400
1500 W Raab Road
Normal, IL 61761
Phone: 
Fax:

Christy Fornero 

Associate Director, Science Laboratories 
Email: Christy.Fornero@heartland.edu

Phone: (309) 268-8519

STEM & Business Contacts

 

Jennifer Antonini 

Coordinator – STEM & Business
Email: Jennifer.Antonini@heartland.edu
Phone: (309) 268-8651

STEM & Business Leadership

Jeremy McClure

Dean – STEM & Business
Email: Jeremy.McClure@heartland.edu 
Phone: (309) 268-8655

Brian Brennan

Associate Dean, STEM & Business
Email: Brian.Brennan@heartland.edu
Phone: (309) 268-8639