Associate in Science (AS) – Biology

Biology is the natural science concerned with the study of all living organisms, their structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution. GTCC offers the first two years of biology courses for students who want to major or minor in biology for a baccalaureate program, core science option for students seeking an Associate in Science (A.S.), or equivalent degrees in such areas as health care.

Credentialing Options

Career Opportunities

Biology is fundamental to careers in science and health but there are many other routes you can take with this degree. Graduates also pursue opportunities in industries such as business, finance, marketing, education and sales.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will need to follow the general enrollment process for GTCC.  During the advising process you will have the opportunity to indicate your desire to study within this curriculum. Your advisor will help you sign up for the specific courses you need.

Keith Barlow, Instructor

Jennifer Boalick, Instructor

Jeremy Creech, Instructor

Kiani Gardner, Instructor

Michele Garrett, Instructor

Kristen Johnson, Instructor

Alex Jordan, Instructor

Jameson McCann, Instructor/Coordinator Biotechnology

Shawn Villalpando, Instructor

George Whitesides, Instructor

Yes, Financial aid is available if you qualify. Please visit the Financial Aid web page or contact the Financial Aid office at 336-334-4822. Select option 3.

If you meet the admission requirements for GTCC, you also qualify for admission into the biology program.

A biology degree can lead to career paths in medicine, research, agricultural science, forensic science, biotechnology, environmental science, and teaching.

A degree in biology is excellent preparation for STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers, which include some of the fastest growing and highest paying occupations.

You should take available high school courses in mathematics, chemistry, biology, and physics.

You need to enroll in BIO 111 your first semester.

All biology courses will transfer to four-year institutions within North Carolina according to the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (CAA).

GTCC has smaller class sizes, which will allow you to receive more one-on-one instruction from faculty. Course offerings at GTCC are also more economical than at four-year schools.

You must have an "80" or better in DRE 098 (Developmental Reading and English), or you have placed/scored out of DRE 098. 

GTCC and UNCG have a created a co-admission agreement for biology majors. Through the agreement, you will gain admission to both institutions and take your first two years of courses at GTCC (resulting in an Associate of Science). You then seamlessly enter UNCG with junior standing for the final two years of course work (resulting in a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Art). As a part of a cohort of students, you will take all classes together while at GTCC, participate in special extra-curricular activities designed for the cohort, enjoy use of many UNCG facilities, and have specialized advising at both institutions. For more information, contact Hamid Shirzadi, Department Chair for Sciences at nnasershirzadi@gtcc.edu, 336-334-4822 Ext. 50487. Also see information at the UNCG G-Squared web page.