A Strong Foundation for a Future in Biology
Whether drawn to forensic science, conservation, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, teaching, or beyond, the Biology Transfer Major Degree at Iowa Lakes sets the stage for your success. This Associate in Science (AS) degree provides a rigorous foundation in biological and chemical sciences, equipping you with the hands-on lab experience and analytical skills needed to thrive in a science-focused career.
Completing your Biology Transfer Major Degree at Iowa Lakes will fulfill the general education and science prerequisites required by leading regent universities such as the University of Northern Iowa, the University of Iowa, and Iowa State University. With a seamless transfer pathway, you’ll be prepared to pursue your Bachelor of Science in Biology with confidence.
Your transcripts will clearly reflect the completion of a transfer major, ensuring your coursework aligns with the specific requirements of your chosen four-year institution. Our dedicated advisors will guide you through each step, helping you meet course requirements and maintain a competitive GPA for transfer success.
Explore career pathways and salary expectations in biology-related fields through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook. Ready to take the next step? Connect with an enrollment coach today and turn your ambitions into reality!
Find Your It!
Your First Step Toward a Science-Driven Career
Diverse Career Paths in Biology
A Biology Transfer Major degree from Iowa Lakes opens doors to various careers, from environmental science and biotechnology to medical research and education. Whether you plan to enter the workforce directly after earning your bachelor’s degree or pursue further studies in medicine, veterinary science, or genetics, Iowa Lakes provides the foundation you need.
Seamless Transfer to Your Chosen University
Completing your Associate in Science degree at Iowa Lakes ensures you meet all general education and major-specific requirements for your intended four-year institution. Since transfer requirements vary, working closely with an advisor will help you stay on track.
Program Details
Length
4 terms
Degree
Associate in Science (64 credits)
Campus
Estherville
Additional Information
Term 1
BIO 112 – General Biology I
Introduction to biology concepts with emphasis on ecology, cellular biology, reproduction and development, genetics and evolution. Lecture and laboratory.
CSC 110 – Intro to Computers
CSC-110 is an introductory course that surveys a variety of topics to include history, hardware, software, terminology, communications, computer ethics, and societal impact of computers. In addition to computer literacy, students will complete hands-on modules using operating systems, word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software; such as Microsoft Office programs.
ENG 105 – Composition I
Emphasis on expository and argumentative writings including a review of usage and mechanics.
Prerequisites: Satisfactory score on the ACT, Accuplacer, ASSET, COMPASS as determined by Iowa Lakes policy
MAT 211 – Calculus I
A general course in differential and integral calculus and its applications. Topics include limits and continuity; differentiation; application of differentiation; integration; logarithmic, exponential and other transcendental functions; and applications of integration.
Prerequisites: MAT 127 – College Algebra and Trig or equivalent
SDV 103 – Successful Learning
Students master the academic and personal skills needed to succeed in higher education and in life. Content will cover academic, communication and life management skills. Goal setting, time management, note taking, test taking and how to be a lifelong learner will also be covered.
Term 2
BIO 113 – General Biology II
Introduction to biology concepts with emphasis on kingdoms; taxonomy and a survey of invertebrate and vertebrate organisms; plant structures and physiology; and animal systems. Lecture and laboratory.
Prerequisites: BIO 112 – General Biology I
ENG 106 – Composition II
Continuation of ENG 105 with emphasis on research and documentation as well as literary analysis.
Prerequisites: ENG 105 – Composition I
SPC 101 – Fundamentals of Oral Communication†
The fundamentals course develops the basic skills involved in a variety of communication situations, including oral presentations and interpersonal speaking. Emphasis is placed on organization, audience analysis, vocal and physical delivery, listening, nonverbal communication, critical thinking, and methods of dealing with communication apprehension through class discussion and activities.
SPC 112 – Public Speaking
This course examines both the theoretical and practical basis of speech communication, particularly public speaking. Emphasis is placed on speech preparation, organization, support, delivery, and audience analysis.
SPC 122 – Interpersonal Communications
Examines how humans communicate in one-on-one situations through personal and professional relationships.
Choose either SPC 101, SPC 112 or SPC 122
Social Science: 3 credits
Humanities: 3 credits
Term 3
CHM 166 – General Chemistry I
The properties of matter in terms of modern chemical principles. The topics covered are measurements, stoichiometry, atomic structure, chemical reactions, periodic relationships, gas laws, thermochemistry, quantum theory, solutions and equilibrium and inter-and intra-molecular forces. Problem solving in each of the areas is included. Lecture and laboratory.
Prerequisites: High school chemistry and mathematics
Term 4
CHM 176 – General Chemistry II
This course is an introduction to organic chemistry, and covers: acids and bases, oxidation/reduction, solubility products, and nuclear chemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, coordination complexes, qualitative analysis. Problem solving in each of the areas is included. Microscale and semi-microscale labs are also included.
Prerequisites: CHM 166 – General Chemistry I
General Education & Program Learning Outcomes
By obtaining an Associate in Science (AS) degree from Iowa Lakes, you will learn the following:1
Communications:
- Students are able to communicate clearly, both written and oral using the correct medium.
- Students are able to support ideas with appropriate and adequate information.
Sciences:
- Demonstrate safe laboratory practices.
- Apply scientific inquiry/scientific method to answer questions about the natural world.
Mathematics:
- Apply mathematical methods to solve real world problems.
- Evaluate the validity of mathematical solutions.
Social Sciences:
- Students will demonstrate critical thinking skills in written and oral communication.
- Students will critique the diversity of human experience, individually and collectively.
Humanities:
- Respond critically using established aesthetic principles or criteria, or an ethical judgement of specific examples as it relates to the discipline.
- Express the principles of the discipline within the global community by using the language, syntax, and cultural context of the discipline appropriately.
Computers:
- Integrate the technology necessary in the workplace environment.
- Demonstrate knowledge in utilizing software application tools.
1The What You’ll Learn section of our website provides a description of Learning Outcomes for students who successfully complete all requirements for obtaining an Associate in Science degree from Iowa Lakes Community College.
Hands-On
Training
Career-Ready
Day One
Transfer data to Iowa Regent Universities
First Year University GPA
Note: This is the average of transfer with associates and transfer, no associates
2.94
Average Retention One Year After Transferring to a Regent University
86%
Average University Graduation Rates Three Years After Entry to a Regent University
58%
START YOUR LAKER JOURNEY IN 4 STEPS!
Questions? Let's Talk
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Trevor Friesner Academic Advisor 712-362-7984 | tfriesner@iowalakes.edu |