Biology
Biology
Explore the Intricacies of Life from Molecules to Ecosystems
Program Overview
Embark on an enlightening journey into the world of biology at College of Western Idaho (CWI), where your educational ambitions are nurtured and supported. Our Biology program offers a comprehensive exploration of life, covering all areas of biology from molecular to community levels, with an emphasis on evolutionary principles. This program is your gateway to understanding the intricate mechanisms of life and preparing for a successful transition to higher studies.
At CWI, small class sizes and dedicated instructors ensure you receive personalized attention, fostering an environment conducive to learning and exploration. Our curriculum, aligned with the standards developed by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, includes core concepts and competencies vital for your academic and professional growth. You can choose from emphases in Human Biology; Natural Resources; or Cellular, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences, tailoring your education to your specific interests and career aspirations. Whether you aim for advanced studies or diverse careers in biology, starting your journey at CWI places you on a path to success.
Learning Opportunities
- Wide-Ranging Biological Studies: Engage in studies across various biological fields.
- Emphasis Areas: Specialize in Human Biology, Natural Resources, or Cellular, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences.
- Practical Laboratory Experience: Develop hands-on skills in modern laboratory settings.
- Foundation for Further Education: Prepare for advanced degrees in various biological science disciplines.
- Personalized Academic Path: Choose electives and engage in enrichment opportunities to align with your career goals including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Pathways Internship.
Areas of Study
Customize your Biology degree at CWI with an area of emphasis as you prepare to transfer on to a four-year college or university.
Biology General
- Learn fundamental skills in critical thinking and analysis, data collection and management, and supporting laboratory and field technologies.
- Tailor classes to your particular interests within the field of biology.
Human Biology
- Prepare to enter professional programs in medicine, research, and biomedical engineering.
- Develop your abilities to think and reason like a scientist.
- Be amazed by you and the incredible processes happening with you.
Microbiological, Molecular, & Biomedical Sciences
- Get your hands dirty! In the first semester, you will begin designing your own experiments.
- Develop the ability to think and reason as a scientist.
- Learn about the scientific method and critical analysis in the class and laboratory.
Natural Resources
- Learn to think and reason like a scientist.
- Network with professionals working for state and federal agencies in Idaho.
- Chase butterflies.
- Spend time outdoors — our natural environment becomes your classroom.
Degrees & Certificates
Biology – Associate of Science Degree
Cost:
$10,555
Biotechnology Laboratory Assistant – Academic Certificate
Cost:
$6,654
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Career Opportunities
779
Annual Openings*
$
36.02
Hourly Median Wage*
$
74,921
Annual Median Salary
10.07
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level.
422
Annual Openings*
$
29.28
Hourly Median Wage*
$
60,902
Annual Median Salary
3.72
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
All life, physical, and social science technicians not listed separately.
61
Annual Openings*
$
23.00
Hourly Median Wage*
$
47,840
Annual Median Salary
9.95
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
50
Annual Openings*
$
58.00
Hourly Median Wage*
$
120,640
Annual Median Salary
18.28
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Work with agricultural scientists in plant, fiber, and animal research, or assist with animal breeding and nutrition. Set up or maintain laboratory equipment and collect samples from crops or animals. Prepare specimens or record data to assist scientists in biology or related life science experiments. Conduct tests and experiments to improve yield and quality of crops or to increase the resistance of plants and animals to disease or insects.
50
Annual Openings*
$
20.95
Hourly Median Wage*
$
43,576
Annual Median Salary
9.69
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
All biological scientists not listed separately.
46
Annual Openings*
$
38.31
Hourly Median Wage*
$
79,684
Annual Median Salary
9.81
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Assist biological and medical scientists. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, collect data and samples, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs.
36
Annual Openings*
$
19.02
Hourly Median Wage*
$
39,561
Annual Median Salary
15.02
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Work with food scientists or technologists to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative tests to determine physical or chemical properties of food or beverage products. Includes technicians who assist in research and development of production technology, quality control, packaging, processing, and use of foods.
27
Annual Openings*
$
21.89
Hourly Median Wage*
$
45,531
Annual Median Salary
8.73
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.
18
Annual Openings*
$
29.12
Hourly Median Wage*
$
60,569
Annual Median Salary
15.66
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
All life scientists not listed separately.
10
Annual Openings*
$
46.63
Hourly Median Wage*
$
96,990
Annual Median Salary
3.23
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.
$
25.71
Hourly Median Wage*
$
53,476
Annual Median Salary
Collect and organize data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measure and report on flow rates and ground water levels, maintain field equipment, collect water samples, install and collect sampling equipment, and process samples for shipment to testing laboratories. May collect data on behalf of hydrologists, engineers, developers, government agencies, or agriculture.
$
27.36
Hourly Median Wage*
$
56,908
Annual Median Salary
5.67
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
"Every professor I have had seems to truly care about the success of students, which is rare to find. My experience here at CWI is vastly greater than my prior college experience, and I will forever be grateful." Read More >
"I’ve always wanted to be a part of the medical field. At first, I wanted to become a medical doctor, but as I was introduced to forensics, it blew my mind. I want to make a difference, and the very thought of knowing I can make a difference while solving crimes and other situations is a blessing to me." Read More >
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Biology as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Related Programs
Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math
Gain a Robust Foundation for Exciting Opportunities in Science and Technology
Clubs
Biology Club
Join the Biology Club at College of Western Idaho, and connect with fellow students who share your passion for life sciences. We host biology-related events, volunteer opportunities, and promote career and academic paths for both medical biology and natural resource majors.
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