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Biology

A.A.

A.S.

Biology helps develop an informed sense of how we may individually and collectively continue to fit into the complex ecology of our planet. Biologists are employed in research, teaching, administration, service, and sales in governmental agencies, educational institutions, private business, and industry.

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This degree includes all of the general education distribution requirements typically required by four-year universities and prepares students for many biology major areas. Students who choose this degree want to complete their non-science courses at TCC and zero in on the math and science courses required for their majors at their four-year schools.
Length

2.25 Years*

102 Credits

Costs

Typically $1,590.70*

Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid

Academic Info

Core Requirements

Program Map
Things to Know

Students pursuing this degree are strongly advised to contact their potential transfer institutions early regarding the specific course choices in each area of the degree.
What will my classes look like?

At Tacoma Community College, biology students enjoy:

Small classes

Faculty excited about teaching

Well-equipped labs

Economical tuition
*Average length to complete and cost to attend is based on a full-time student who is a Washington state resident. The cost displayed refers to quarterly tuition for such a student. Individual program costs and fees may vary.
This degree requires more math and chemistry, but does not fulfill all of the general education distribution courses usually required for a bachelor's degree. Students who choose this degree will complete the rest of their general education distribution courses after transferring to a four-year institution. But, for many students, the Associate of Science degree better prepares them for the junior-level coursework required for their science major.
Length

2.25 Years*

107 Credits

Costs

Typically $1,590.70*

Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid

Academic Info

Core Requirements

Program Map
Things to Know

Students pursuing this degree are strongly advised to contact their potential transfer institutions early regarding the specific course choices in each area of the degree.

Many classes required for the Associate of Science degree are only offered once or twice per year. Students pursuing this degree are strongly advised to work with a TCC faculty advisor to plan their program of study, including the selection of elective courses.
What will my classes look like?

At Tacoma Community College, biology students enjoy:

Small classes

Faculty excited about teaching

Well-equipped labs

Economical tuition
*Average length to complete and cost to attend is based on a full-time student who is a Washington state resident. The cost displayed refers to quarterly tuition for such a student. Individual program costs and fees may vary.

Graduates will have a strong understanding of biology and related disciplines of chemistry, environmental studies, and medicine. They will be prepared to transfer to earn a bachelor degree in biology, wildlife science, botany, zoology, or similar programs in the natural sciences.

Top Transfer Institutions

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON TACOMA (Biomedical Science)

UNIVERSITY OF Washington

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON Tacoma (Environmental Science)

PACIFIC LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY

The Industries

Medicine
Dentistry/Orthodontics
Veterinary Medicine
Molecular and Cellular Biology

Wildlife Biology
Botany
Fisheries Science
Environmental Science

The Careers

Biologist

Research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.

Zoologist

Study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management.

Molecular Biologist

Research and study cellular molecules and organelles to understand cell function and organization.

Biology Professor

Teach courses in biological sciences. Includes teachers who do a combination of teaching and research.

Career Explorer

From Our Students

I intend to use my education in marine biology to inform my work as a scientific communicator.”

John Plinka TCC Graduate

Students in graduation regalia walk across the Japanese bridge on campus

Tuition & Payment

TCC is typically 1/3 the cost of a state university. Find out about how much college costs so you can plan for your finances.

Financial Aid

Nearly 60 percent of all TCC students receive some kind of financial aid to help pay for school. We can help you make an investment in your education.

Ways to Pay

There are resources to help you pay for college, including scholarships, grants, workforce education funding, student emergency funds, and much more.

Veterans Benefits

Service members, military veterans, and their families have unique needs when it comes to furthering their educational goals.

Academic Advising

Connect with your advisor to stay on track and make informed decisions about your future.

Student Learning Centers

Take charge of your education with our Student Learning Centers, offering support to help develop skills and excel in your classes.

Library

The Library is the campus hub for information and research resources.

Access Services

Providing accommodations and support for students with disabilities.

Counseling

TCC Counseling provides free and confidential help to all students.

Food Pantry

The Titan Food Pantry is open to all students, providing food to get you through the day.

Free Bus Pass

All students are eligible for a free ORCA card for transportation through Pierce Transit.

Childcare

The Early Learning Center is a safe, enriching place for children age 12 month to 8 years to learn and grow while you pursue your educational goals.

Career Center

Visit the Career Center to receive career coaching, resume building assistance, and get connected with employers in our area.

Career Explorer

Use the Career Explorer to find out more about future employment opportunities in the area and what each position entails.

Career Assessment

Use the Career Assessment to help you identify what jobs might be a good fit for you, and the programs at TCC that can help you get started.

Student Employment

Explore options for work while you're a student, including work-study positions, internships, and part-time opportunities.

All Student Support

The Science of Life

Degree Options

Associate of Arts in Biology

Associate of Science – Specialization in Biology

Have Any Questions?

The Opportunities Add Up

Top Transfer Institutions

The Industries

The Careers

From Our Students

Support for Success & Well-Being

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