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Major options ![]()
Earn your Associate in Science degree and transfer to a four-year institution to study biological sciences. You’ll take core classes along with biology-focused courses in fundamentals of cellular and organismal biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry and more. This program follows the Illinois Articulation Initiative biological sciences baccalaureate major recommendations.
Harper College is a great place to study biological sciences. You’ll take science classes in the new Avanté Center, which features modern classrooms and state-of-the-art laboratories. Additionally, you can get experience outside the classroom by participating in the Environmental Club, Biology Club, Health Career/Pre-Med Club or one of many other extracurricular activities that are available to students.
This program is a convenient and affordable way to begin your college education. Academic advisors will help you choose courses that meet the specific requirements of the four-year college or university you plan to attend.
This sample transfer planning guide meets the requirements of the Associate in Science degree and follows the Illinois Articulation Initiative biological sciences baccalaureate major recommendations. Students should decide the specialization within the biological sciences major as early as possible, preferably by the beginning of the sophomore year. Students choosing to follow this sample plan need to choose the major of Associate in Science if needing financial aid. Transfer institution requirements may vary - students should check individual college/university requirements before completing the sample plan as outlined. Baccalaureate admission may be competitive. Completion of these courses alone does not guarantee admission.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
First Semester | ||
| BIO 115 | Fundamentals of Cellular Biology | 4 |
| CHM 121 | General Chemistry I | 5 |
| ENG 101 | Composition I | 3 |
| MTH 200 | Calculus I | 5 |
| Hours | 17 | |
Second Semester | ||
| BIO 116 | Fundamentals of Organismal Biology | 4 |
| CHM 122 | General Chemistry II | 5 |
| ENG 102 | Composition II | 3 |
| Humanities and Fine Arts 1 | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
Third Semester | ||
| BIO 260 | Human Anatomy | 4 |
| CHM 204 | Organic Chemistry I | 5 |
| MTH 225 | Business Statistics | 4 |
| MTH 165 | Elementary Statistics | |
| Social and Behavioral Science 2 | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
Fourth Semester | ||
| BIO 261 | Human Physiology | 4 |
| CHM 205 | Organic Chemistry II | 5 |
| Humanities and Fine Arts 1 | 3 | |
| Social and Behavioral Science 2 | 3 | |
| SPE 101 | Fundamentals of Speech Communication | 3 |
| Hours | 18 | |
| Total Hours | 66 | |
Select at least one course from Humanities and one from Fine Arts. Interdisciplinary courses may count in either category. Refer to the Associate in Science degree for approved courses in this category. One course from Humanities and Fine Arts or from Social and Behavioral Sciences must meet the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement for the Associate in Science degree.
One course from Humanities and Fine Arts or from Social and Behavioral Sciences must meet the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement for the Associate in Science degree.
For more information about Biological Sciences, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.