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What Can You Do With an Associates in Biology

If you’re thinking about earning an associate degree in biology, you might be wondering what you can actually do with it. Whether you’re aiming to work right after graduation or planning to transfer to a four-year institution, earning an associate in biology from Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) can set you on a rewarding path. This degree offers a cost-effective way to explore the biological sciences, gain hands-on lab experience and develop foundational skills that prepare you for a wide range of biology-related careers.

Biology touches nearly every part of our lives, from medical breakthroughs to environmental conservation. As a student in NOVA’s Associate of Science in Biology program, you’ll gain essential knowledge and skills that can lead to exciting opportunities in fields like genetics, microbiology and biotechnology. Plus, with NOVA’s strong transfer agreements, you can continue your education at a four-year college or university.

Explore NOVA’s Associate of Science in Biology

At NOVA, our biology program provides a comprehensive foundation in life sciences. You’ll also complete hands-on labs that give you real-world experience working with microscopes, lab equipment and scientific data.

Core courses you can expect include:

  • General Biology I & II: Discover the fundamentals of life, from cell structure and macromolecules to evolution and ecology.
  • General Zoology: Examine animal diversity through the biology, behavior, evolution and ecology of invertebrates and vertebrates.
  • Cell Biology: Study cell structure and function with emphasis on metabolism, division and gene expression.
  • General Chemistry I & II: Learn the fundamental laws, theories and concepts of chemistry in this two-part course for science and engineering majors.
  • Laboratory Courses: Build practical skills through experiments, dissections and data analysis.

Biology classes are available in person and online, giving you flexibility to fit your studies around work, family and other commitments. Plus, NOVA’s dedicated advisors help you map out your courses to ensure you’re on track to graduate and transfer.

Build Essential Skills for a Successful Biology Career

At NOVA, you won’t just memorize facts — you’ll gain hands-on experience and critical thinking abilities that employers and four-year institutions value. Some of the key skills you’ll develop in the associate in biology program include:

  • Laboratory Techniques: Safely handle equipment, prepare samples and conduct experiments.
  • Data Analysis: Interpret results, create graphs and understand statistics.
  • Critical Thinking: Apply scientific concepts to solve real-world problems.
  • Scientific Communication: Write clear lab reports, presenting research and collaborate in teams.

These skills are essential whether you’re entering the workforce or transferring to a bachelor’s program.

Careers You Can Pursue With an Associate Degree in Biology

So, what can you do with an associate degree in biology? According to Lightcast, a leading labor market analytics firm, there are currently 378 entry-level biology jobs in Northern Virginia with salaries ranging from $57,000–$65,000. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects 5% job growth for biological technicians through 2032, signaling steady demand for professionals with strong foundational biology skills. 

While many NOVA students continue on to a bachelor’s degree — and eventually graduate or professional school — to pursue careers in fields like genetics, microbiology or medicine, there are also immediate opportunities in laboratory, healthcare and environmental fields, including:

Work as a lab assistant in genetics or biotech labs, supporting research and development of products like medications, diagnostic tests or agricultural solutions.

Pursue roles in clinical labs or research institutions processing samples, preparing cultures and assisting scientists with experiments.

Start your path to medical school or work in healthcare as a medical laboratory technician, phlebotomy assistant or research assistant in medical studies.

Join organizations that monitor water quality, study ecosystems or conduct field research to protect the environment.

These examples highlight that the answer to “what can you do with an associate’s in biology?” is “far more than you might think.” From entry-level lab and healthcare roles to a strong foundation for advanced study, NOVA’s biology program prepares you for a wide range of options.

Prepare to Transfer to a Four-Year College

If your goal is a bachelor’s degree or beyond, NOVA’s Associate of Science in Biology makes transferring straightforward. NOVA maintains guaranteed admission agreements with many Virginia colleges and universities, including George Mason University, James Madison University and Virginia Commonwealth University.

To maximize your transfer success:

  • Meet regularly with NOVA’s transfer advisors.
  • Choose electives that align with your intended major at a four-year school.
  • Maintain a strong GPA to meet transfer requirements.

NOVA’s biology program is designed to align with the first two years of a bachelor’s degree, so you won’t waste time or credits.

Why Choose NOVA for Your Biology Studies?

Before choosing a college for your associate in biology, it’s important to understand what sets each program apart. Here’s why NOVA is an excellent choice:


  • Accredited and respected: NOVA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your credits are recognized by four-year schools and top employers.
  • Career-focused curriculum: Build skills through labs and coursework that prepare you for today’s biology careers and further study.
  • Experienced biology faculty: Learn from a dedicated NOVA faculty with years of experience in mathematics, chemistry, biology and communication.
  • Hands-on biology courses: Explore diverse fields through courses like General Chemistry, General Zoology and Cell Biology. NOVA can also connect you with internships, research opportunities or partnerships with local labs or hospitals.
  • Affordable biology program: Receive a high-quality biology education at a lower cost. You may also qualify for NOVA scholarships to help reduce tuition and other expenses.
  • Student Support Services: Access tutoring, academic advising, career counseling and transfer guidance to help you succeed and plan what’s next.

Move Forward With an Associate's in Biology

Now that you know what you can do with an associate in biology, it’s time to take action. Whether you want to enter the workforce in a lab or healthcare setting or transfer to a bachelor’s degree program, NOVA’s Associate of Science in Biology provides the foundation you need.

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