An associate in science is a basic level degree, and is designed for those who wish to pursue education in a medical or science-related field. This degree provides foundational knowledge that may be used to start a bachelor's degree in science program. Many associate's degrees in science are transferrable degrees, and provide academic knowledge, but not specific career training. The associate in science degree is usually completed in about two years, but the exact length may vary for each student. It is usually offered by many community or junior colleges; however, some universities do offer a two years degree after completion of a specific program and prior to the start of the four-year program.
The program may require students to select a course concentration. Depending on their career goals, students may choose between biology, physics, computer science, chemistry, engineering, and health science, among other options. Some associate's degree programs are specialized, such as nursing and emergency medical services, though they are usually covered by associate's degree of applied science programs. Many renowned and accredited colleges offer science associate's degrees. Apart from conventional campus-based programs, a number of institutes offer online degrees as well. Online programs offer certain benefits to students not available to those who study in campus-based programs. These programs provide a convenient learning schedule, which allows professionals to continue their jobs at the same time. Also, the program enables students to avoid time and costs related to travel to campuses. Finally, the program may be less expensive as compared to campus-based programs, due to low cost of online education.
Program Curriculum
The curriculum of the program is designed to prepare students to transfer to four-year programs and to broaden their general science knowledge. The program may require candidates to complete a total of about 60 credit hours, or twenty courses, to complete their associate's degree.
The curriculum may be divided into general education requirements, mathematics and lab science requirements, humanities and social science requirements, computing requirements, and elective requirements. The coursework may cover the following subjects:
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English Composition
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College Algebra
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Probability and Statistics
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Pre-calculus
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Biological Science
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Solar System Astrology
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Anatomy and Physiology
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Micro-biology
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College Chemistry
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Organic Chemistry
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University Physics
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Art and History
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World Literature
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English Literature
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World History
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Introduction to Philosophy
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Ethics
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Introduction to Religion
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Introduction to Anthropology
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French
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German
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General Physiology
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Human Growth and Development
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Abnormal Psychology
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Introduction to Sociology
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Social Problems
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Marriage and Family
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Introduction to Computing
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Basic Computer Concepts
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Introduction to Engineering
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Introduction to Computer Engineering
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Introduction to Electrical Engineering
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Introduction to Computer Graphics
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Introduction to Civil Engineering
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Engineering Surveying Lab
The above mentioned subject curriculum is typical for many science associate's degree programs; however, please note that course titles and class requirements may vary between schools. For exact information about the program you wish to enroll in, consult with your admissions counselor. Upon completion of the program, students may on to a four-year university to continue to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in order to broaden their career prospects.