Biology

Why study biology?

Students wishing to enter careers in many life science and health professions careers will get their start in our biology courses. Agriculture and agriculture technology, basic research, medial/pharmaceutical research, science writing, medicine, therapeutics, kinesiology, sustainability and environmental biology, and many other careers will have their roots in a basic understanding of biology.

Parkland's course offerings include anatomy and other biological science courses for health professions and pre-professional medicine students. Some classes feature field trips to nearby prairies and ecosystems, while another takes students on a two-week Caribbean exploration. Other biology classes cover evolution, nutrition, microbiology, and the new field of biotechnology. All courses are laboratory-based, and many are offered online or during evening hours.           

At Parkland, you'll have the advantage of small class sizes, taught by master faculty—never teaching assistants. Your success is our priority. 

Classes

Parkland College offers a variety of biology classes to prepare you for a transfer degree or to fulfill general education requirements.

Elective Biology Classes

Introduction to Biology (BIO 100): is a basic course that teaches the fundamentals of biological study such as the scientific method, cell structure, DNA and RNA, heredity, diversity, and evolution.

Basic Anatomy and Physiology (BIO 111), Human Anatomy and Physiology I (BIO 121) and Human Anatomy and Physiology II (BIO 122): teach students about human body structures and functions beginning with a basic overview and advancing to more detailed systems. BIO 111 lab activities include the use of models, the Anatomage table, and cadavers.

Fundamentals of Nutrition (BIO 120): stresses practical application of nutrition concepts and explores current nutrition controversies. 

Microbiology (BIO 123) and Microbiology Laboratory Principles (BIO 166): explore the basic principles of microbiology such as microorganisms, microbial control, pathogenesis, and immunity.

Pathophysiology (BIO 225): examines the basis of various conditions in altered health, focusing on deviation from normal homeostatic condition.

General Education Biology Classes

General Biology (BIO 101): Survey of biology for students in A.A.S. and baccalaureate-oriented programs. General principles of biology emphasizing the skills associated with the scientific method, cell and organism structure and function, evolution and ecology.

Environmental Biology and Sustainability (BIO 104): examines the relationship between humans and the environment including populations, energy use, and pollution. Field trips included. 

Human Biology (BIO 105): is intended for students not concentrating in biology. It explores the  functions of the human body, health, disease, growth, development, genetics, and evolution. 

Heredity and Society (BIO 106) and Heredity and Society Laboratory (BIO 186): are intended for students not concentrating in biology. These classes must be taken together to qualify for general education requirements. They include the topics of inheritance, populations, genetics, and DNA.

Introduction to Evolution (BIO 107): explores the history of evolutionary thought, origin of life, genetics, and the geological and astronomical bases of biological evolution. 

Introduction to Plant Biology (BIO 109): introduces the student to plant anatomy, growth, responsiveness, evolution, reproduction, economics, and symbiosis. 

Principles of Biology I (BIO 141): is intended for students concentrating in life science or in a pre-professional health program. Topics include cell biology, bioenergetics, molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. 

Principles of Biology II (BIO 142): is intended for students concentrating in life science or in a pre-professional health program. Topics include cell biology, bioenergetics, molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. 


Will my classes transfer?

BIO 101, 104, 105, 107, 109, 141, 142, and 106/186 (taken together) will fulfill the Life Sciences general education requirement at Illinois public universities. Parkland College classes with an even middle digit (such as ENG 101, MAT 128, and BIO 141) are accepted for transfer as general education classes, major courses, or electives as determined by the transfer institution.  

For more information about transferring, speak with an academic advisor and visit the Parkland Course Matrix.

Curriculum

Learn more about how these courses fit into a transfer degree or the general education core curriculum (GECC).

Biological Sciences

Associate in Science (A.S.)
Course Sequence

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Parkland Science Scholars

Students pursuing science degrees who are from low-income families are encouraged to apply to Parkland Science Scholars. This program provides financial support, mentoring, and opportunities to gain experience and create networks in science careers. For more information visit parkland.edu/ParklandScienceScholars.