TCC's Biology program explores the science of living things. Biology coursework is essential for health professions students and serves as a building block for many students fulfilling general education requirements for associate degrees.
Offered on each of TCC's four campuses, classes range from Foundations of Biology to Human Anatomy and Physiology to Introductory Microbiology.
While classroom lectures and lab work provide the foundation for learning, students have ample opportunity to participate in hands-on experiential learning activities and related clubs.
Chesapeake Campus biology students learn to observe animal behavior at the Virginia Zoo and other locations by constructing ethograms, taking scan-sampling data and creating activity logs of observed creatures. Students share their love of learning with the younger set by assisting with Camp Osprey, a faculty-led summer program about nature and animals for children. Students also enjoy the natural beauty of this green campus by participating in the Trail and Outing Club, a new organization that focuses on nature, hiking and environmental topics.
Students at Norfolk and Virginia Beach campuses venture to First Landing State Park to explore natural environments. This year, students are conducting research work comparing a cypress-tupelo swamp ecosystem with a salt marsh ecosystem. Faculty and students collect data on site, while preserving the integrity of the setting. Students analyze the data back on campus, and compile results for lab reports.
Portsmouth Campus biology students participate in Students Advocating for a Greener Environment (SAGE) club. The group works to educate students about important environmental issues; SAGE connects with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Stewards program, which aims to increase faculty and student understanding of essential climate concepts while providing action plans to reduce the carbon footprint in local communities.
Virginia Beach Campus biology students get a closer look at marine creatures by going to sea. Students board TCC's research boat, the Maury, for lessons on sea chemistry and living things. Most excursions last about three hours, with students packing the deck for these labs at sea.
TCC biology students take learning to the next level by participating in internships at the Virginia Zoo, Camp Young and Nauticus, a maritime learning center.