Laboratory Science Technology Biology Track - Associate Degree
Are you ready for a fast-paced, hands-on career that will maximize your analytical skills and challenge you every day? The Laboratory Science Technology Associate of Applied Sciences Degree program blends key theoretical concepts with practical laboratory skills needed for success in a broad range of science careers, including biological, chemical, and environmental industries as well as academic research laboratories. This program has been designed not only to prepare you for immediate employment, but also to transfer smoothly to local universities, allowing you to start your science education at NWTC and continue toward a bachelor’s degree and beyond. Courses will focus on experimental design, application of scientific principles in analysis of results, accurate documentation processes, fundamentals of quality measurement, and use of industry-standard instrumentation and protocols.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
See costs of tuition, books, and supplies.This program is fully eligible for financial aid.
Estimates based on in-state residency. Learn more about tuition and fees.
Explore Locations
Delivery
How do I get started in this program?
Requirements for Program Entry
- Completed Application
- High School Transcripts or Equivalents (For equivalents, go to www.nwtc.edu/gettingstarted.)
- To be admitted to this program, learners must achieve a prior cumulative high school or college grade point average of 2.6 or higher OR a satisfactory academic skills assessment score. College grade point average must be based on 15 credits or more. To learn more about starting this program, please contact an academic advisor at (920) 498-5444 or (888) 385-6982.
What are my courses?
Curriculum
Students following the study plan below will complete the Laboratory Science Technology associate degree in the number of semesters shown.
First Semester
8 Week 1
Full Semester
Second Semester
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Summer Before Third Semester
Third Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Fourth Semester
Full Semester
- Curriculum Note: Students must earn a "C" or higher in all 10-506-XXX and 10-806-XXX courses to successfully graduate the Laboratory Science Technology Program. A student must repeat the particular course with a "C" or better final grade to continue in or graduate from this program. If the course is sequential, the successful retake must occur before continuing the sequence.
- Courses with 10-806-XXX and 10-506-XXX require a final grade "C" or better to transfer credit to 4-year institutions. For transfer purposes, students must also meet the accepting 4-year institution requirements to earn the Bachelor degree with the accepting institution’s major(s). Requirements may include:
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
- Satisfactory completion of the degree credit requirements listed in the Transfer Guide.
- Completion of the last 30 credits in residence at the accepting institution. Number of credits may differ depending on the accepting institution.
- In addition, the following courses must also be passed with a grade "C" or better:
- 10-801-136, English Comp 1
- 10-804-197, College Alg and Trig w Apps
Program Outcomes
- Synthesize theoretical knowledge and empirical results to build understanding of complex scientific processes.
- Apply the steps of the scientific method to solve problems.
- Design sound laboratory protocols and experiments.
- Execute common laboratory procedures and measurements with precision, repeatability, and validity.
- Collect, document, and analyze data from laboratory procedures and report results and conclusions.
- Model safe, hygienic laboratory practices.
What careers are in my future?
Graduate Employment
with 100% in field
Median Starting Salary
Source: NWTC Graduate Outcome Survey
Employment Potential
Laboratory Technologists/Technicians collect and analyze samples, validate and perform protocols and procedures to analyze samples for quality assurance and safety, and may operate complex equipment and instruments.
- Quality Control Analysts conduct tests to determine quality of raw materials, bulk intermediate and finished products
- Laboratory Managers validate and perform protocols and procedures and lead the daily operations of laboratories, including management of maintenance of machinery and performance of technicians.
- Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers analyze raw or processed products for specifications.
What's next after graduation?
Start here. Finish at a four-year.
NWTC transfer programs are offered through collaborative agreements with our four-year college and university partners. See where your associate degree credits will transfer.
What else do I need to know about the program?
Study Abroad Opportunities
The International Programs staff continually seeks opportunities for students to travel abroad for educational experiences that may be offered in association with program courses.
A smart start to your science career!
Credits transfer smoothly to local universities, allowing you to start your science education at NWTC and continue toward a bachelor’s degree and beyond.
Learn more: Email our Admissions team at start@nwtc.edu or call 920-498-5444.
Related Programs
- Online
-
Classes wherever you have an internet connection.
- An in-person career experience, such as an internship, practicum, or credit for prior learning, may be required.
- Some online courses may be held at specific dates/times.
- Day
- Classes between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
- Evening
- Classes between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
- Weekend
- A combination of online classes and Saturday and/or Sunday classes.
- Full-time
- 12 or more credits per term.
- Part-time
- Fewer than 12 credits per term.