Biology

The Biology degree is primarily a transfer degree, though some students pursue entry-level roles such as laboratory technician or related support positions.

Yes. Stark State offers convenient day, evening, and online options, allowing students to complete the program in as little as two years while working full-time. Note: Many labs require in-person attendance.

Yes. Stark State College offers a science scholarship, and students may qualify for additional need-based scholarships. A new scholarship application should be submitted each year.

Yes. All courses in the Biology degree transfer through either the TAG (Transfer Assurance Guides) program or the OT36 (Ohio Transfer 36). TAG courses transfer as equivalent courses, while OT36 courses transfer as natural science credits to fulfill general education requirements.

Yes. We have partnerships with the University of Akron, Kent State University, The Ohio State University, and private institutions such as Walsh University and the University of Mount Union. Stark State also participates in the Ohio Guaranteed Transfer Pathway Program, which ensures transferability to participating private institutions statewide.

Lab courses are capped at 20 students (20:1 ratio). Online courses have up to 27 students, and face-to-face lecture courses have up to 30 students, our department’s maximum class size.

Yes. We have established relationships with organizations such as Stark Parks, Raptor Hollow Sanctuary, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Students may also conduct research with Stark State faculty or pursue their own internships, co-ops, or research opportunities at local institutions.

Yes. Students can participate in research with Stark State faculty, including opportunities such as cadaver dissection. We also maintain relationships with NEOMED and other organizations that offer internships and research experiences.

Absolutely! Due to the easy transferability of our courses and our high academic standards, the Sciences Division has been able to establish a great relationship with the pharmacy program at the Northeast Ohio Medical University. We are currently working on agreements to establish a pathway for students to a Northeast Ohio Council on Higher Education partner school for pre-medicine.

Many general education courses are available both in-person and online. Science courses require in-person attendance for labs, while lectures may be taken in-person or online.

The Science Learning Center (SLC) provides free tutoring and academic support, both on campus and online. The SLC has locations on the main campus, the Akron campus, and virtual options.

These courses fulfill the capstone requirement for the Biology degree and may also serve as electives for other programs, including the pre-medical professional concentration. The capstone experience helps students explore academic and career goals. Students work with a faculty mentor to complete a project aligned with their interests, such as:

• conducting research in a lab,
• completing a faculty-guided project,
• completing an internship, or
• shadowing a professional in a related field.

Students work with both a program faculty advisor and a Gateway Services academic advisor to stay on track toward their goals.

Yes. Many courses apply to College Credit Plus (CCP) and allow students to earn college credit while completing high school requirements.

Yes. CCP courses completed with a passing grade and meeting prerequisites apply directly to your associate degree.