Welcome to the Biology Program

 


Biologists work to understand how the bodies of living organisms work, down to the molecular level. Most of their occupations, teaching, consulting, and research involve being able to interpret, explain, and apply their work. They might be specialists in plants (botanists), animals (zoologists), or in a particular human anatomical, physiologic or cellular function, such as genetics. Biotechnologists apply biological advances to pharmaceuticals, medical diagnostics, agrichemicals, food and forensics. They need to be able to solve problems and communicate well and have skills in basic laboratory techniques. They use specialized scientific equipment to perform a wide range of procedures, such as growing and maintaining bacterial cultures, gene cloning, protein and DNA electrophoresis, microscopy, and reagent preparation.

Our Science and Technology program is regarded as one of the best in the country. Instruction is provided by highly qualified professional and academic experts in new state-of-the-art facilities. The requirements for a Red Rocks' Associate of Science degree in biology is rigorous and demanding. They include micro-cellular and molecular biology, chemistry, human anatomy and physiology. They provide the theoretical background and hands-on, practical experience necessary to be an effective laboratory technician after graduation or to transfer to a four-year college or university.

degrees

Associate of Science

In collaboration with Colorado 4-year schools, Colorado has developed a statewide guaranteed transfer program called "gtPathways" to create seamless transfer. Click here for a list of courses that are guaranteed transfer to any Colorado public college or university. Click here to see the degrees that transfer seamlessly to Colorado public colleges or universities. Also, take a look at our transfer guide.

Career Paths in Biology

If you are fascinated with how living things work and have an interest in helping them stay healthy, a career in biology or biotechnology might interest you. Biotechnology, in particular, will be a major source of job growth and investment opportunity in the West in the 21st century. Colorado is a world leader in medical devices research and development. Nearly 400 biotech companies are headquartered here, employing more than 25,000 workers and generating more than $4 billion in annual revenues. Most make products for detecting, preventing and treating diseases and other medical conditions. Others make specialty chemicals and animal vaccines. Still others conduct research and make products used in food technology, mining, waste management, energy, and criminology. Depending on your specialty, entry-level biologists generally earn in the range of $22,000 per year. With advanced degrees, biologists can earn up to $65,000 in private industry. Biomedical engineers beginning as interns earn $31,000 per year. Experienced research scientists can command upwards of $75,000 per year.  A degree in biology can allow you to pursue careers such as:

  • Medical / Clinical Laboratory Technologist
  • Forensic Science Technician
  • Biology, High School Teacher
  • Research and Development (R & D) Laboratory Technician
  • Chemical Laboratory Technicians
  • Research Technician - Biotechnology
  • Veterinary Technician/ Technologist

(More careers here.)

Tuition Savings

Starting at RRCC makes cents! At about half the cost of a four year university  you will complete all of your general education requirements for the bachelor’s and can take electives geared toward a specific major. By the time you finish your four-year degree you will save a significant amount of money versus attending the first at RRCC and transferring. See current tuition rates and savings here.

Quality Faculty and Small Class Size

At RRCC, we have qualified and accessible faculty with real-world experience, whose primary responsibility is teaching. Our faculty care about our students' success, and with an average class sizes of less than 20 students, you will never be lost in a crowd at RRCC!

Scheduling Options

We offer many scheduling options to fit your busy life so you can complete courses on a more flexible time frame.

Why Choose RRCC?

Deciding where to start your college education is a big decision. Whether you are earning a degree, brushing up on career skills, or seeking life-long learning, you will enjoy an environment of inspiration and support. It is our goal to create an experience that will enrich your life educationally, professionally, and personally to help you succeed!