Liberal Arts and Science

The associate in science degree is a comprehensive liberal arts and sciences curriculum emphasizing the application of scientific knowledge and mathematics for problem-solving. The graduating student receives preparation for continuing education in the sciences, engineering, and mathematics as well as the professional world. The curriculum also includes courses in literature, communication, and the social and behavioral sciences. Students are encouraged by the faculty to take part in research projects which may lead to presentations at scholarly conferences. The capstone course serves as a culminating academic experience requiring the use and integration of oral and written communication, critical thinking, research, and analysis.

The associate in science in Liberal Arts and Science is a STEM-track degree for students interested in studying sequential math and science courses and is the perfect starting point for students contemplating careers in areas such as biological sciences, chemistry, physics, computer science, engineering, or mathematics.

We currently offer four specializations: General Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. These specializations enable students to focus their studies on specific science disciplines and complete the first half of the corresponding bachelors degrees in Biomedical Informatics, Applied Chemistry, and Applied Computational Physics, in the event that they wish to continue their studies upon completing the associate in science degree program.

Students interested in this degree often want to go into mathematics, science, or medical health professions like medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or biotechnology. Alongside the aforementioned areas of study, research and academia are viable possibilities. Students interested in any of these fields should consider specializing in biology or chemistry. Those interested in studying astrophysics or computational methods that can be applied to various industry such as the technology and finance sectors should consider specializing in physics.

Learning Outcomes:

• Effective oral and written communication skills

• Teamwork and problem-solving skills

• Foundations in information literacy, with critical thinking skills, for lifelong learning

• Foundations of scientific research including testing and validation of scientific theories, and application of scientific reasoning

• Fundamental, interdisciplinary knowledge of the natural sciences

• Understand and apply mathematical concepts and models

• Fundamental knowledge of a variety of disciplines, including philosophy, literature, and behavioral and social sciences