Biological Science, A.S.
Build a Foundation in the Life Sciences
If you're curious about how living systems work—and want to pursue a career in biology, healthcare, or scientific research—this program is a strong place to start. The Biological Science A.S. degree gives you a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, preparing you to transfer to a four-year college or university.
Whether you’re planning for medical school, research, or biotechnology, this STEM-based program equips you with the lab skills, research experience, and critical thinking you’ll need to succeed.
Transfer with Confidence
Your Degree = Junior Standing at a PASSHE University
Complete this associate degree and transfer seamlessly into a bachelor’s program at
any Pennsylvania State System (PASSHE) university. Thanks to statewide Program-to-Program
(P2P) agreements, you’ll enter with junior-level standing—saving time and money.
What You'll Learn
- Explore core concepts in biology, from molecular structures to ecosystems
- Conduct lab experiments and analyze biological data
- Build research, writing, and presentation skills for scientific communication
- Use chemistry, statistics, and technology to support your studies
- Prepare for upper-level coursework in biology, medicine, or related fields
Program Requirements
This degree includes a minimum of 61 credits and can be completed in four semesters of full-time study. You'll take courses in biology, chemistry, math, and communication, along with electives in the humanities and social sciences.
Visit the academic catalog for a full list of required courses by semester:
Biological Science, A.S. - Duquesne Pharm.D. Track
Planning to become a pharmacist?
BC3 offers a specialized Biological Science A.S. degree track for students who intend to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) from Duquesne University.
This track follows a prescribed sequence of courses aligned with Duquesne’s School of Pharmacy admission requirements. The Biological Science–Duquesne Track associate degree differs from the standard Biological Science A.S. in required courses and total credits.
Students who complete the Biological Science–Duquesne Track A.S. degree and are admitted to Duquesne’s School of Pharmacy will complete:
- 2 years at BC3 (associate degree)
- 4 additional years at Duquesne University
- Leading to a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
Duquesne will admit up to two BC3 students per academic year who meet the required criteria. At Duquesne’s discretion, more than two students may be admitted in a given year based on space availability.
This pathway includes specific course, credit, GPA, and admission requirements established in partnership with Duquesne University.
Students planning to pursue this pathway should review the curriculum planner, which outlines:
- Required courses and sequencing
- Total credits for the Biological Science–Duquesne Track A.S.
- Admission criteria for Duquesne’s School of Pharmacy
- Planning guidance to remain eligible for transfer
Because this pathway is highly structured, students are strongly encouraged to meet regularly with a BC3 academic advisor to stay on track.
Note: Students interested in pharmacy must follow this designated track. The standard Biological Science A.S. does not meet the admission requirements for Duquesne’s Pharm.D. program.
Where This Degree Can Take You
This program prepares you to transfer into a four-year biological sciences program—and lays the groundwork for careers in medicine, research, environmental science, and more.
With a bachelor’s or graduate degree, students in this pathway may pursue careers such as:
- Biologist or biological technician
- Physician, dentist, or physician assistant
- Geneticist or microbiologist
- Environmental scientist or ecologist
- Laboratory or research assistant
- Hospitals and medical clinics
- Research laboratories
- Environmental agencies
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Colleges and universities
Apply to BC3 Today
Start Your Journey as a Pioneer