Biology Transfer Pathway
- Associate of Science (AS)
- 60 credits
- Delivery Method: On-Campus
Why Study Biology Transfer Pathway at 91ɬÂþ?
The Business Transfer Pathway AS offers students a powerful option: the opportunity to complete an Associate of Science degree with course credits that directly transfer to designated business bachelor’s degree programs at Minnesota State universities. The curriculum has been specifically designed so that students completing this pathway degree and transferring to one of the seven Minnesota State universities enter the university with junior-year status. Emphasis is on contemporary business practices through coursework in management, marketing, economics, accounting, technology and communications. All courses in the Transfer Pathway associate degree will directly transfer and apply to the designated bachelor’s degree programs in a related field.
Universities within the Minnesota State system include Bemidji State University; Metropolitan State University; Minnesota State University, Mankato; Minnesota State University, Moorhead; Southwest State University; St. Cloud State University; and Winona State University.
Career Information
Below you will find the Career Field and Career Cluster that this program is related to. Learn more about if this career area fits your interests!
Is Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources right for you?
Agriculture, food, and natural resources workers produce agricultural goods. This includes food, plants, animals, fabrics, wood, and crops. You might work on a farm, ranch, dairy, orchard, greenhouse, or plant nursery. You could also work in a clinic or laboratory as a scientist or engineer.
This data is delivered by an API from CareerOneStop, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Find more information including data update schedules at CareerOneStop's Data Sources (). Full list of datasources.
Median Annual Salary/Wage Earnings for Biological Technicians
the United States
$52K
$25/hr
$38K - $82K
$18/hr - $39/hr
Minnesota
$45K
$21/hr
$39K - $69K
$18/hr - $33/hr
Duluth, MN Area
$40K
$19/hr
$39K - $57K
$18/hr - $27/hr
The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas; national occupational estimates for specific industries are also available.
Salary data are from U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program (). Current as of May 2024.
Projected 10-Year Job Growth for Biological Technicians
the United States
4%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 9,100
2024 to 2034
Minnesota
7%
Projected Annual Job Openings: 170
2022 to 2032
My Next Move provides career outlook designations that include Bright, Average, or Below Average. Bright Outlook occupations are expected to grow rapidly in the next several years, will have large numbers of job openings, or are new and emerging occupations.
Occupation outlook data come from O*NET Bright Outlook occupations () and My Next Move career outlook designations (). Note this information is only available at a national level, so even if you selected a state, you’ll see this information for the whole country. Current as of November 2024.
Employment Numbers for Biological Technicians
the United States
Estimated Employment:
82,700
Minnesota
Estimated Employment:
1,250
My Next Move provides career outlook designations that include Bright, Average, or Below Average. Bright Outlook occupations are expected to grow rapidly in the next several years, will have large numbers of job openings, or are new and emerging occupations.
Occupation outlook data come from O*NET Bright Outlook occupations () and My Next Move career outlook designations (). Note this information is only available at a national level, so even if you selected a state, you’ll see this information for the whole country. Current as of November 2024.
Alternative Job Titles for Biological Technicians
- Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Biological Science Lab Tech)
- Biological Science Technician
- Biological Technician
- Laboratory Technician
- Marine Fisheries Technician
- Research Assistant
- Research Associate
- Research Specialist
- Research Technician
- Wildlife Biology Technician
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.
Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.
Job Tasks and Activities for Biological Technicians
- Analyze chemical compounds or substances.
- Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings.
- Assist engineers or scientists with research.
- Calculate weights, volumes or other characteristics of materials.
- Care for plants or animals.
- Clean objects.
- Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas.
- Collaborate on research activities with scientists or technical specialists.
- Collect biological specimens.
- Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
- Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
- Conduct standardized biological, microbiological or biochemical tests and laboratory analyses to evaluate the quantity or quality of physical or chemical substances in food or other products.
- Examine animals and specimens to detect the presence of disease or other problems.
- Examine characteristics or behavior of living organisms.
- Feed livestock or laboratory animals.
- Input data into databases.
- Interpret research or operational data.
- Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.
- Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities.
- Measure ingredients or substances to be used in production processes.
- Measure or weigh compounds and solutions for use in testing or animal feed.
- Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
- Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with set standards.
- Monitor operational procedures in technical environments to ensure conformance to standards.
- Operate computers or computerized equipment.
- Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
- Participate in the research, development, or manufacturing of medicinal and pharmaceutical preparations.
- Place orders for laboratory equipment and supplies.
- Prepare biological samples for testing or analysis.
- Provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers working in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, resource management, biology, and health sciences.
- Record research or operational data.
- Research microbiological or chemical processes or structures.
- Set up laboratory or field equipment.
- Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
- Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.
Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.
Interests for Biological Technicians
- Realistic
Designing, building, or repairing equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. - Investigative
Studying and researching scientific subjects and human behavior. - Conventional
Following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting.
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.
Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.
Skills for Biological Technicians
In order of importance
- Reading Comprehension
Reading work-related information.
Importance: 75/100 - Critical Thinking
Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
Importance: 72/100 - Science
Using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems.
Importance: 69/100 - Active Listening
Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
Importance: 69/100 - Active Learning
Figuring out how to use new ideas or things.
Importance: 63/100 - Writing
Writing things for co-workers or customers.
Importance: 60/100 - Speaking
Talking to others.
Importance: 56/100 - Monitoring
Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements.
Importance: 56/100 - Complex Problem Solving
Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it.
Importance: 56/100 - Judgment and Decision Making
Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one.
Importance: 53/100 - Systems Analysis
Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it.
Importance: 50/100 - Mathematics
Using math to solve problems.
Importance: 50/100 - Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working.
Importance: 50/100 - Time Management
Managing your time and the time of other people.
Importance: 47/100 - Quality Control Analysis
Testing how well a product or service works.
Importance: 47/100 - Learning Strategies
Using the best training or teaching strategies for learning new things.
Importance: 47/100 - Systems Evaluation
Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it.
Importance: 44/100 - Coordination
Changing what is done based on other people's actions.
Importance: 44/100 - Social Perceptiveness
Understanding people's reactions.
Importance: 44/100 - Operation and Control
Using equipment or systems.
Importance: 41/100 - Troubleshooting
Figuring out what is causing equipment, machines, wiring, or computer programs to not work.
Importance: 41/100 - Instructing
Teaching people how to do something.
Importance: 35/100 - Management of Material Resources
Managing equipment and materials.
Importance: 31/100 - Service Orientation
Looking for ways to help people.
Importance: 31/100 - Management of Personnel Resources
Selecting and managing the best workers for a job.
Importance: 28/100 - Equipment Maintenance
Planning and doing the basic maintenance on equipment.
Importance: 28/100 - Persuasion
Talking people into changing their minds or their behavior.
Importance: 25/100 - Programming
Writing computer programs.
Importance: 22/100 - Management of Financial Resources
Making spending decisions and keeping track of what is spent.
Importance: 22/100 - Technology Design
Making equipment and technology useful for customers.
Importance: 22/100 - Equipment Selection
Deciding what kind of tools and equipment are needed to do a job.
Importance: 22/100 - Negotiation
Bringing people together to solve differences.
Importance: 22/100 - Operations Analysis
Figuring out what a product or service needs to be able to do.
Importance: 22/100 - Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the right tools.
Importance: 19/100
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.
Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.
Knowledge for Biological Technicians
In order of importance
- Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Importance: 86/100 - English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 70/100 - Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 57/100 - Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 56/100 - Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Importance: 55/100 - Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Importance: 34/100 - Administrative
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Importance: 31/100 - Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Importance: 27/100 - Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Importance: 26/100 - Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Importance: 23/100 - Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Importance: 23/100 - Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Importance: 22/100 - Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Importance: 21/100 - Communications and Media
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Importance: 21/100 - Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Importance: 21/100 - Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Importance: 19/100 - Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Importance: 18/100 - Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Importance: 18/100 - Personnel and Human Resources
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Importance: 17/100 - Psychology
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Importance: 13/100 - Geography
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Importance: 13/100 - Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Importance: 11/100 - Economics and Accounting
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Importance: 9/100 - Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Importance: 9/100 - Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Importance: 7/100 - Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Importance: 6/100 - Philosophy and Theology
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Importance: 6/100 - Therapy and Counseling
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Importance: 6/100 - Sales and Marketing
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Importance: 6/100 - History and Archeology
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Importance: 5/100 - Foreign Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Importance: 4/100 - Fine Arts
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Importance: 2/100
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.
Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.
Physical Abilities for Biological Technicians
In order of importance
- Oral Comprehension
Listening and understanding what people say.
Importance: 72/100 - Inductive Reasoning
Making general rules or coming up with answers from lots of detailed information.
Importance: 72/100 - Near Vision
Seeing details up close.
Importance: 72/100 - Oral Expression
Communicating by speaking.
Importance: 69/100 - Information Ordering
Ordering or arranging things.
Importance: 69/100 - Written Comprehension
Reading and understanding what is written.
Importance: 66/100 - Written Expression
Communicating by writing.
Importance: 66/100 - Deductive Reasoning
Using rules to solve problems.
Importance: 66/100 - Speech Recognition
Recognizing spoken words.
Importance: 63/100 - Category Flexibility
Grouping things in different ways.
Importance: 63/100 - Problem Sensitivity
Noticing when problems happen.
Importance: 63/100 - Speech Clarity
Speaking clearly.
Importance: 63/100 - Selective Attention
Paying attention to something without being distracted.
Importance: 60/100 - Flexibility of Closure
Seeing hidden patterns.
Importance: 53/100 - Number Facility
Adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing.
Importance: 50/100 - Perceptual Speed
Quickly comparing groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things.
Importance: 50/100 - Visual Color Discrimination
Noticing the difference between colors, including shades and brightness.
Importance: 50/100 - Finger Dexterity
Putting together small parts with your fingers.
Importance: 50/100 - Mathematical Reasoning
Choosing the right type of math to solve a problem.
Importance: 50/100 - Arm-Hand Steadiness
Keeping your arm or hand steady.
Importance: 50/100 - Fluency of Ideas
Coming up with lots of ideas.
Importance: 50/100 - Visualization
Imagining how something will look after it is moved around or changed.
Importance: 50/100 - Originality
Creating new and original ideas.
Importance: 47/100 - Manual Dexterity
Holding or moving items with your hands.
Importance: 47/100 - Far Vision
Seeing details that are far away.
Importance: 47/100 - Speed of Closure
Quickly knowing what you are looking at.
Importance: 44/100 - Control Precision
Quickly changing the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat.
Importance: 44/100 - Multilimb Coordination
Using your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down.
Importance: 41/100 - Memorization
Remembering words, numbers, pictures, or steps.
Importance: 38/100 - Time Sharing
Doing two or more things at the same time.
Importance: 38/100 - Wrist-Finger Speed
Making fast, simple, repeated movements of your fingers, hands, and wrists.
Importance: 31/100 - Auditory Attention
Paying attention to one sound while there are other distracting sounds.
Importance: 31/100 - Trunk Strength
Using your lower back and stomach.
Importance: 31/100 - Static Strength
Lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying.
Importance: 31/100 - Hearing Sensitivity
Telling the difference between sounds.
Importance: 28/100 - Dynamic Strength
Exercising for a long time without your muscles getting tired.
Importance: 28/100 - Reaction Time
Quickly moving your hand, finger, or foot based on a sound, light, picture or other command.
Importance: 25/100 - Response Orientation
Quickly deciding if you should move your hand, foot, or other body part.
Importance: 25/100 - Depth Perception
Deciding which thing is closer or farther away from you, or deciding how far away it is from you.
Importance: 25/100 - Extent Flexibility
Bending, stretching, twisting, or reaching with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Importance: 25/100 - Stamina
Exercising for a long time without getting out of breath.
Importance: 25/100 - Gross Body Equilibrium
Keeping your balance or staying upright.
Importance: 19/100 - Gross Body Coordination
Moving your arms, legs, and mid-section together while your whole body is moving.
Importance: 19/100 - Rate Control
Changing when and how fast you move based on how something else is moving.
Importance: 16/100 - Explosive Strength
Jumping, sprinting, or throwing something.
Importance: 10/100 - Speed of Limb Movement
Quickly moving your arms and legs.
Importance: 3/100 - Night Vision
Seeing at night or under low light.
Importance: 3/100 - Sound Localization
Noticing the direction that a sound came from.
Importance: 3/100 - Glare Sensitivity
Seeing something even if there is a glare or very bright light.
Importance: 3/100 - Spatial Orientation
Knowing where things are around you.
Importance: 3/100
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.
Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.
Tools and Technology used by Biological Technicians
- Robotic or automated liquid handling systems
- Manual or electronic hematology differential cell counters
- Spectrofluorimeters or fluorimeters
- Deoxyribonucleic sequence analyzers
- Microbiology analyzers
- Steam autoclaves or sterilizers
- Refrigerated and heated reach in environmental or growth chambers
- Volumetric pipettes
- Drying cabinets or ovens
- Petri plates or dishes
- Gel boxes
- Laboratory mechanical convection ovens
- Multipurpose or general test tubes
- Laboratory mixers
- Tissue embedding stations
- Hybridization ovens or incubators
- Scanners
- Temperature cycling chambers or thermal cyclers
- Respirators
- Laboratory washing machines
- Forced air or mechanical convection general purpose incubators
- Laboratory balances
- Fume hoods or cupboards
- Bi distillation units
- Gel filtration equipment
- Rapid amplification or complementary deoxyribonucleic acid ends RACE technology products
- Inverted microscopes
- Electrophoresis system power supplies
- Gas chromatographs
- Benchtop centrifuges
- Complementary deoxyribonucleic acid cDNA synthesis kits
- Protein analyzers
- Transilluminators
- Beta gamma counters
- Refrigerated benchtop centrifuges
- Incubator accessories
- Ultra cold or ultralow upright cabinets or freezers
- Ultra violet water purification units
- Shaking incubators
- Histological staining apparatus
- Water jacketed single chamber three gas incubators
- Cryogenic or liquid nitrogen freezers
- Water baths
- Microtomes
- Instrumentation for capillary electrophoresis
- Anaerobic chamber
- Ultrasonic cleaning equipment
- Microplate readers
- Microbiology inoculation loops or needles
- Dehydrators
- Electronic multichannel pipetters
- Ion selective electrode
- Laboratory burets
- Binocular light compound microscopes
- Amino acid analyzers
- Microcentrifuges
- Notebook computers
- pH meters
- Stirring hotplates
- Homogenizers
- Laser printers
- Spectrophotometers
- Microplate washers
- Ultracentrifuges
- Analytical balances
- Personal computers
- Conductivity meters
- Analytical or scientific software
- BD Biosciences CellQuest
- BoxShade
- ClustalW
- Gene Codes Sequencher
- Gene Runner
- Laboratory information management system LIMS
- Phrap
- Phred
- PolyBayes
- Primer3
- SAS
- Statistical software
- Systat Software SigmaPlot
- Systat Software TableCurve
- Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Graphics or photo imaging software
- Adobe Photoshop
- Graphics software
- Harvard Graphics
- Data base user interface and query software
- Database software
- Microsoft Access
- Thomson EndNote
- Spreadsheet software
- IBM Lotus 1-2-3
- Microsoft Excel
- Geographic information system
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Office suite software
- Corel WordPerfect Office Suite
- Microsoft Office software
- Word processing software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
- Word processing software
- Document management software
- Adobe Acrobat
- Map creation software
- MapInfo MapMarker
- Project management software
- Microsoft Project
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.
Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.
Employment Industries for Biological Technicians
- Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences
26,700 employed - Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state
10,500 employed - Federal government, excluding postal service
8,700 employed - Colleges, universities, and professional schools; private
6,500 employed - Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
6,300 employed - State government, excluding education and hospitals
3,100 employed - Testing laboratories and services
2,700 employed
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.
Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.
Career Information Datasources for Biological Technicians
- Wages by occupation
The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas; national occupational estimates for specific industries are also available. Current as of May 2024. - Education and training assignments
BLS provides information about education and training requirements for hundreds of occupations. In the education and training system, each of the occupations for which the office publishes projections data is assigned separate categories for education, work experience, and on-the-job training. Current as of September 2024. - Occupation data
The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements. Current as of October 2024. - Occupation outlook
My Next Move provides career outlook designations that include Bright, Average, or Below Average. Bright Outlook occupations are expected to grow rapidly in the next several years, will have large numbers of job openings, or are new and emerging occupations. Current as of November 2024. - Career videos
Explore our collection of videos on hundreds of different careers. Career videos are organized into 16 clusters, or related types of work. Select a category to view a list of videos related to that cluster. Videos include career details such as tasks, work settings, education needed, and more. Current as of rolling. - Educational attainment, typical education of current workers
BLS provides information about education and training requirements for hundreds of occupations. Educational attainment data for each occupation show the level of education achieved by current workers. Current as of September 2024.
Plan Your Education
The Biology Transfer Pathway Program Guide is a tool to help you map out how to successfully get your degree at 91ɬÂþ
View approximate total tuition and fees for MN residents to complete this degree.
Program Participation Requirements
Pre-Program Requirements
To begin this program, you need to be at a specific skill level in English/reading and mathematics.
English/Reading:
- Eligible for ENGL 1106 - College Composition I, or
- Completion of ENGL/READ 0950/0955 (or equivalent or higher). ENGL/READ 0950/0955 may be taken concurrently with Semester I coursework.
Mathematics:
- Eligible for MATH 0970 - Intermediate Algebra, or
- Completion of MATH 0950/0955 (or equivalent or higher). MATH 0950/0955 may be taken concurrently with Semester I coursework.
There are other ways to qualify. Visit Course Placement to find out more.
| Course | Title | Credits | MnTC Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
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FYE 1000FYE 1000 First Year Experience This course is designed to develop those behaviors students need to be successful in academia and future careers, including setting and achieving goals, demonstrating professionalism, and utilizing digital and physical resources. (1 hr lec/0 hrs lab/0 hr |
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First Year ExperienceFYE 1000 First Year Experience This course is designed to develop those behaviors students need to be successful in academia and future careers, including setting and achieving goals, demonstrating professionalism, and utilizing digital and physical resources. (1 hr lec/0 hrs lab/0 hr |
1 | |
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BUS 1410*BUS 1410 Intro to Business and Entrepreneurship This course is an introductory survey of the major areas of business and its environment. The course is designed to explain the environment and language of business and entrepreneurship. The course will examine the major functional areas of business: acc |
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Intro to Business and EntrepreneurshipBUS 1410 Intro to Business and Entrepreneurship This course is an introductory survey of the major areas of business and its environment. The course is designed to explain the environment and language of business and entrepreneurship. The course will examine the major functional areas of business: acc |
3 | |
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BUS 1448BUS 1448 Leadership Development This course is designed to provide the student with experience in undertaking an active leadership role, interpersonal business communication, and observing others in leadership activities. (Prerequisites: None) (3 hrs lec/0 hrs lab/0 hrs OJT) |
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Leadership DevelopmentBUS 1448 Leadership Development This course is designed to provide the student with experience in undertaking an active leadership role, interpersonal business communication, and observing others in leadership activities. (Prerequisites: None) (3 hrs lec/0 hrs lab/0 hrs OJT) |
3 | |
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ADSC 1430*ADSC 1430 Business Computers/Microsoft Office This course introduces computer terminology, hardware, and software related to the business environment. The focus of this course is on business productivity, software applications, and professional behavior in computing, including word processing, sprea |
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Business Computers/Microsoft OfficeADSC 1430 Business Computers/Microsoft Office This course introduces computer terminology, hardware, and software related to the business environment. The focus of this course is on business productivity, software applications, and professional behavior in computing, including word processing, sprea |
3 | |
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LGST 1420*LGST 1420 Business Law - An Introduction This course is an introductory course in the principles of business law as they apply to individuals and businesses. This course focuses on the ethical, social, and political perspectives underlying the United States legal system. Topics include the ope |
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Business Law - An IntroductionLGST 1420 Business Law - An Introduction This course is an introductory course in the principles of business law as they apply to individuals and businesses. This course focuses on the ethical, social, and political perspectives underlying the United States legal system. Topics include the ope |
3 | |
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ACCT 1410ACCT 1410 Financial Accounting Principles I This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and principles which are used in the business environment to analyze and record transactions incorporating the accrual method of accounting. The focus will be on the analysis of the fundamental a |
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Financial Accounting Principles IACCT 1410 Financial Accounting Principles I This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and principles which are used in the business environment to analyze and record transactions incorporating the accrual method of accounting. The focus will be on the analysis of the fundamental a |
3 | |
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ACCT 1510*ACCT 1510 Financial Accounting Principles II This course is the second course in a series of two courses. This course continues the study of fundamental concepts and principles which are used in the business environment to analyze and record transactions incorporating the accrual method of accounti |
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Financial Accounting Principles IIACCT 1510 Financial Accounting Principles II This course is the second course in a series of two courses. This course continues the study of fundamental concepts and principles which are used in the business environment to analyze and record transactions incorporating the accrual method of accounti |
3 | |
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ACCT 2430*ACCT 2430 Managerial Accounting This course focuses on business concepts and methods used to report managerial performance information to internal users and managers to support them in making sound business decisions for the enterprise. (Prerequisites: ACCT1410 or instructor consent) ( |
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Managerial AccountingACCT 2430 Managerial Accounting This course focuses on business concepts and methods used to report managerial performance information to internal users and managers to support them in making sound business decisions for the enterprise. (Prerequisites: ACCT1410 or instructor consent) ( |
3 | |
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BUS 2402*BUS 2402 Principles of Management This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of basic and current management principles and practices. The course addresses managerial functions ranging from front-line supervisor positions to upper management levels. Trends in qualit |
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Principles of ManagementBUS 2402 Principles of Management This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of basic and current management principles and practices. The course addresses managerial functions ranging from front-line supervisor positions to upper management levels. Trends in qualit |
3 | |
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BUS 2400*BUS 2400 Principles of Marketing This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of basic marketing principles and practices, centering on the component of the marketing mix and the contribution each component makes toward the overall marketing effort of large and small b |
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Principles of MarketingBUS 2400 Principles of Marketing This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of basic marketing principles and practices, centering on the component of the marketing mix and the contribution each component makes toward the overall marketing effort of large and small b |
3 | |
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ENGL 1106*ENGL 1106 College Composition I First semester college-level composition course focusing on writing expository prose using word processing as a tool for composing. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical reading, developing a voice, and grammar review. Presupposes competency in |
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College Composition IENGL 1106 College Composition I First semester college-level composition course focusing on writing expository prose using word processing as a tool for composing. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical reading, developing a voice, and grammar review. Presupposes competency in |
3 | 01 |
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ENGL 1109*ENGL 1109 College Composition II Second semester college-level composition course focusing on academic writing using primary and secondary sources, including basic research using print and electronic sources. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical analysis, summarizing, research, |
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College Composition IIENGL 1109 College Composition II Second semester college-level composition course focusing on academic writing using primary and secondary sources, including basic research using print and electronic sources. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical analysis, summarizing, research, |
3 | 01,02 |
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COMM 1110*COMM 1110 Public Speaking This course provides opportunities for students to become familiar with a variety of techniques to develop skills in research, organization, and presentation of informative and persuasive speeches. Students should expect to reduce speech apprehension and |
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Public SpeakingCOMM 1110 Public Speaking This course provides opportunities for students to become familiar with a variety of techniques to develop skills in research, organization, and presentation of informative and persuasive speeches. Students should expect to reduce speech apprehension and |
3 | 01 |
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PHIL 1130*PHIL 1130 Ethics Important ethical theories of right and wrong, good and bad. Includes egoism, divine command theory, natural law theory, utilitarianism, duty-based ethics, social contract theory, and virtue theory. The course will emphasize the use of reason in decisio |
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EthicsPHIL 1130 Ethics Important ethical theories of right and wrong, good and bad. Includes egoism, divine command theory, natural law theory, utilitarianism, duty-based ethics, social contract theory, and virtue theory. The course will emphasize the use of reason in decisio |
3 | 02,06,09 |
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ECON 1150*ECON 1150 Principles of Economics: Macroeconomics This course introduces the student to the study of business cycles, economic growth, and the role of government within the context of market economies. Policy decisions, past and present, and their effects on unemployment and inflation are examined. MTC |
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Principles of Economics: MacroeconomicsECON 1150 Principles of Economics: Macroeconomics This course introduces the student to the study of business cycles, economic growth, and the role of government within the context of market economies. Policy decisions, past and present, and their effects on unemployment and inflation are examined. MTC |
3 | 05,08 |
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ECON 1160*ECON 1160 Principles of Economics: Microeconomics The study of microeconomics gives a foundational understanding of how price and quantity are determined in the market place. Students will learn how consumers determine spending and how firms decide what and how much to produce. A variety of market stru |
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Principles of Economics: MicroeconomicsECON 1160 Principles of Economics: Microeconomics The study of microeconomics gives a foundational understanding of how price and quantity are determined in the market place. Students will learn how consumers determine spending and how firms decide what and how much to produce. A variety of market stru |
3 | 05 |
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MATH 1100*MATH 1100 College Algebra This MN Transfer course is an extension of Intermediate Algebra. Topics covered include equations, inequalities, radicals, functions and their graphs, polynomial functions, rational functions, logarithmic functions, exponential functions, and systems of |
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College AlgebraMATH 1100 College Algebra This MN Transfer course is an extension of Intermediate Algebra. Topics covered include equations, inequalities, radicals, functions and their graphs, polynomial functions, rational functions, logarithmic functions, exponential functions, and systems of |
4 | 02,04 |
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MATH 2210*MATH 2210 General Statistics An introductory course in descriptive and inferential statistics. The following topics will be covered: organizing data; averages and variations around the mean; probability and probability statistics; binomial, normal, and sampling distributions; estimat |
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General StatisticsMATH 2210 General Statistics An introductory course in descriptive and inferential statistics. The following topics will be covered: organizing data; averages and variations around the mean; probability and probability statistics; binomial, normal, and sampling distributions; estimat |
3 | 04 |
| Business Administration has 25 credits of Minnesota Transfer Curriculum embedded in the courses listed above. Please choose an additional 7 credits from the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum. | 7 | 1-10 | |
| Total: | 60 | ||
*Courses may require a prerequisite
Suggested course sequence for a full-time student averaging 15 credits per semester
First Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
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FYE 1000FYE 1000 First Year Experience This course is designed to develop those behaviors students need to be successful in academia and future careers, including setting and achieving goals, demonstrating professionalism, and utilizing digital and physical resources. (1 hr lec/0 hrs lab/0 hr |
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First Year ExperienceFYE 1000 First Year Experience This course is designed to develop those behaviors students need to be successful in academia and future careers, including setting and achieving goals, demonstrating professionalism, and utilizing digital and physical resources. (1 hr lec/0 hrs lab/0 hr |
1 |
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BUS 1410BUS 1410 Intro to Business and Entrepreneurship This course is an introductory survey of the major areas of business and its environment. The course is designed to explain the environment and language of business and entrepreneurship. The course will examine the major functional areas of business: acc |
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Intro to Business and EntrepreneurshipBUS 1410 Intro to Business and Entrepreneurship This course is an introductory survey of the major areas of business and its environment. The course is designed to explain the environment and language of business and entrepreneurship. The course will examine the major functional areas of business: acc |
3 |
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ADSC 1430ADSC 1430 Business Computers/Microsoft Office This course introduces computer terminology, hardware, and software related to the business environment. The focus of this course is on business productivity, software applications, and professional behavior in computing, including word processing, sprea |
Close Dialog
Business Computers/Microsoft OfficeADSC 1430 Business Computers/Microsoft Office This course introduces computer terminology, hardware, and software related to the business environment. The focus of this course is on business productivity, software applications, and professional behavior in computing, including word processing, sprea |
3 |
Close Dialog
ENGL 1106ENGL 1106 College Composition I First semester college-level composition course focusing on writing expository prose using word processing as a tool for composing. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical reading, developing a voice, and grammar review. Presupposes competency in |
Close Dialog
College Composition IENGL 1106 College Composition I First semester college-level composition course focusing on writing expository prose using word processing as a tool for composing. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical reading, developing a voice, and grammar review. Presupposes competency in |
3 |
Close Dialog
MATH 1100MATH 1100 College Algebra This MN Transfer course is an extension of Intermediate Algebra. Topics covered include equations, inequalities, radicals, functions and their graphs, polynomial functions, rational functions, logarithmic functions, exponential functions, and systems of |
Close Dialog
College AlgebraMATH 1100 College Algebra This MN Transfer course is an extension of Intermediate Algebra. Topics covered include equations, inequalities, radicals, functions and their graphs, polynomial functions, rational functions, logarithmic functions, exponential functions, and systems of |
4 |
Second Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
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BUS 1448BUS 1448 Leadership Development This course is designed to provide the student with experience in undertaking an active leadership role, interpersonal business communication, and observing others in leadership activities. (Prerequisites: None) (3 hrs lec/0 hrs lab/0 hrs OJT) |
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Leadership DevelopmentBUS 1448 Leadership Development This course is designed to provide the student with experience in undertaking an active leadership role, interpersonal business communication, and observing others in leadership activities. (Prerequisites: None) (3 hrs lec/0 hrs lab/0 hrs OJT) |
3 |
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ACCT 1410ACCT 1410 Financial Accounting Principles I This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and principles which are used in the business environment to analyze and record transactions incorporating the accrual method of accounting. The focus will be on the analysis of the fundamental a |
Close Dialog
Financial Accounting Principles IACCT 1410 Financial Accounting Principles I This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and principles which are used in the business environment to analyze and record transactions incorporating the accrual method of accounting. The focus will be on the analysis of the fundamental a |
3 |
Close Dialog
ENGL 1109ENGL 1109 College Composition II Second semester college-level composition course focusing on academic writing using primary and secondary sources, including basic research using print and electronic sources. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical analysis, summarizing, research, |
Close Dialog
College Composition IIENGL 1109 College Composition II Second semester college-level composition course focusing on academic writing using primary and secondary sources, including basic research using print and electronic sources. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical analysis, summarizing, research, |
3 |
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ECON 1150ECON 1150 Principles of Economics: Macroeconomics This course introduces the student to the study of business cycles, economic growth, and the role of government within the context of market economies. Policy decisions, past and present, and their effects on unemployment and inflation are examined. MTC |
Close Dialog
Principles of Economics: MacroeconomicsECON 1150 Principles of Economics: Macroeconomics This course introduces the student to the study of business cycles, economic growth, and the role of government within the context of market economies. Policy decisions, past and present, and their effects on unemployment and inflation are examined. MTC |
3 |
Close Dialog
COMM 1110COMM 1110 Public Speaking This course provides opportunities for students to become familiar with a variety of techniques to develop skills in research, organization, and presentation of informative and persuasive speeches. Students should expect to reduce speech apprehension and |
Close Dialog
Public SpeakingCOMM 1110 Public Speaking This course provides opportunities for students to become familiar with a variety of techniques to develop skills in research, organization, and presentation of informative and persuasive speeches. Students should expect to reduce speech apprehension and |
3 |
Third Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
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BUS 2400BUS 2400 Principles of Marketing This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of basic marketing principles and practices, centering on the component of the marketing mix and the contribution each component makes toward the overall marketing effort of large and small b |
Close Dialog
Principles of MarketingBUS 2400 Principles of Marketing This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of basic marketing principles and practices, centering on the component of the marketing mix and the contribution each component makes toward the overall marketing effort of large and small b |
3 |
Close Dialog
LGST 1420LGST 1420 Business Law - An Introduction This course is an introductory course in the principles of business law as they apply to individuals and businesses. This course focuses on the ethical, social, and political perspectives underlying the United States legal system. Topics include the ope |
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Business Law - An IntroductionLGST 1420 Business Law - An Introduction This course is an introductory course in the principles of business law as they apply to individuals and businesses. This course focuses on the ethical, social, and political perspectives underlying the United States legal system. Topics include the ope |
3 |
Close Dialog
ACCT 1510ACCT 1510 Financial Accounting Principles II This course is the second course in a series of two courses. This course continues the study of fundamental concepts and principles which are used in the business environment to analyze and record transactions incorporating the accrual method of accounti |
Close Dialog
Financial Accounting Principles IIACCT 1510 Financial Accounting Principles II This course is the second course in a series of two courses. This course continues the study of fundamental concepts and principles which are used in the business environment to analyze and record transactions incorporating the accrual method of accounti |
3 |
Close Dialog
ECON 1160ECON 1160 Principles of Economics: Microeconomics The study of microeconomics gives a foundational understanding of how price and quantity are determined in the market place. Students will learn how consumers determine spending and how firms decide what and how much to produce. A variety of market stru |
Close Dialog
Principles of Economics: MicroeconomicsECON 1160 Principles of Economics: Microeconomics The study of microeconomics gives a foundational understanding of how price and quantity are determined in the market place. Students will learn how consumers determine spending and how firms decide what and how much to produce. A variety of market stru |
3 |
Close Dialog
MATH 2210MATH 2210 General Statistics An introductory course in descriptive and inferential statistics. The following topics will be covered: organizing data; averages and variations around the mean; probability and probability statistics; binomial, normal, and sampling distributions; estimat |
Close Dialog
General StatisticsMATH 2210 General Statistics An introductory course in descriptive and inferential statistics. The following topics will be covered: organizing data; averages and variations around the mean; probability and probability statistics; binomial, normal, and sampling distributions; estimat |
3 |
Fourth Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
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BUS 2402BUS 2402 Principles of Management This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of basic and current management principles and practices. The course addresses managerial functions ranging from front-line supervisor positions to upper management levels. Trends in qualit |
Close Dialog
Principles of ManagementBUS 2402 Principles of Management This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of basic and current management principles and practices. The course addresses managerial functions ranging from front-line supervisor positions to upper management levels. Trends in qualit |
3 |
Close Dialog
ACCT 2430ACCT 2430 Managerial Accounting This course focuses on business concepts and methods used to report managerial performance information to internal users and managers to support them in making sound business decisions for the enterprise. (Prerequisites: ACCT1410 or instructor consent) ( |
Close Dialog
Managerial AccountingACCT 2430 Managerial Accounting This course focuses on business concepts and methods used to report managerial performance information to internal users and managers to support them in making sound business decisions for the enterprise. (Prerequisites: ACCT1410 or instructor consent) ( |
3 |
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PHIL 1130PHIL 1130 Ethics Important ethical theories of right and wrong, good and bad. Includes egoism, divine command theory, natural law theory, utilitarianism, duty-based ethics, social contract theory, and virtue theory. The course will emphasize the use of reason in decisio |
Close Dialog
EthicsPHIL 1130 Ethics Important ethical theories of right and wrong, good and bad. Includes egoism, divine command theory, natural law theory, utilitarianism, duty-based ethics, social contract theory, and virtue theory. The course will emphasize the use of reason in decisio |
3 |
| MnTC Electives | 7 | |
| Total: | 60 | |
Program Outcomes
- Apply effective business administration concepts and tools
- Understand contemporary business strategies
- Demonstrate analytical skills in identifying and solving problems
- Apply marketing, management, and economic concepts in a business setting
- Apply accounting principles and practices
- Demonstrate financial management skills
- Demonstrate administrative management skills
- Demonstrate interpersonal communication skills
- Plan, prepare, and deliver effective oral and written communications
- Make business decisions in compliance with the law
- Create statistically reliable and valid data
- Demonstrate understanding of statistical data for business decisions
- Utilize effective software applications for business administration
In order to graduate and be guaranteed admission to a Minnesota State university’s designated program you must earn an overall grade point average as indicated by the university to which you will transfer.
This pathway will transfer into:
- Bemidji State University: Business Administration
- Metropolitan State University: Business Administration BS, Entrepreneurship & Innovation BS, Finance BS, Human Resource Management, BS, International Business, BS, Management, BS, Marketing BS, Supply, Chain & Operations, BS
- Minnesota State University, Mankato: Finance, BS – General Finance, Investment Analysis, Institutional Finance, Financial Planning & Insurance, Corporate Finance; International Business, BS; Management, BS (Business Management or Human Resource Management); Marketing, BS
- Minnesota State University Moorhead: Business Administration, BS
- Southwest Minnesota State University: Management, BS (General Management, Human Resources Management, Supply Chain Management)
- St. Cloud State University: General Business, BS, Management, BS (Operations Management, Human Resources Management), Marketing, BS
- Winona State University: Business Administration, BS

