Biology Degree | Westmoreland County Community College, Youngwood, Pennsylvania

Associate of Science Degree in Biology

Students in a Biology class

Why Choose Biology as a Career?

Biologists learn to ask questions, make observations, evaluate evidence, and solve problems. They study the conservation of plants and animals; investigate the interactions of living organisms with light, the environment or each other; or have careers in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, forensics, conservation, health-related fields, medical research and more. Their work increases our understanding of our natural world and helps us address issues of personal, environmental and community health and sustainability.

What Will I Learn?

The Associate of Science (AS) in Biology degree prepares students for transfer into Bachelor of Science (BS) degree programs at four-year colleges and universities. Upon successful completion of this degree, students will demonstrate:

  • An understanding of the fundamental principles of biology
  • Problem solving
  • Critical thinking  
  • Technical communication

Students will also safely perform experiments and analyze and interpret the results. In addition, introductory and capstone courses will help to foster a sense of community, curiosity, and interdisciplinary collaboration between Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students and faculty. View Biology in the College Catalog

Transfer Opportunities

The AS in Biology is aligned with the recommendations of the Transfer and Articulation Oversight Committee (TAOC). Students who successfully complete this degree may enroll in parallel Bachelor degree programs at TAOC colleges and universities as juniors (third-year students).

Four-year institutions have specific transfer requirements. Transfer requirements will vary from institution to institution (TAOC and non-TAOC). Please, verify transferability with your transfer institution, and consult with the Westmoreland transfer counselor and your faculty advisor for more information.

TAOC Four-Year Colleges and Universities

PA State System of Higher Education

  • Bloomsburg University of PA
  • California University of PA
  • Cheyney University of PA
  • Clarion University of PA
  • East Stroudsburg University of PA
  • Edinboro University of PA
  • Indiana University of PA
  • Kutztown University of PA
  • Lock Haven University of PA
  • Mansfield University of PA
  • Millersville University of PA
  • Shippensburg University of PA
  • Slippery Rock University of PA
  • West Chester University of PA

Other Pa. Colleges & Universities

  • Cabrini University
  • Carlow University
  • Geneva College
  • Lackawanna College
  • Lincoln University