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    Oct 10, 2024  
2022-2023 Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Catalog [ARCHIVED]

Emphasis in Natural Sciences, AS


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The intent of this degree is to prepare students for careers and/or higher education in the natural sciences or in specific disciplines within this broad designation. This degree includes training in the scientific method, the fundamental principles of natural science, and the analytical reasoning of science and mathematics. Emphases of courses for this degree include mathematics, physical and life science concepts, principles, theories, and laws. Some courses acquaint students with the methods of conducting scientific investigations in laboratory field settings through observation, while other courses require students to construct logical arguments, make valid inferences, and acquire quantitative skills essential to many related disciplines.

Complete a minimum of 18 units from the following courses, with at least one course taken in three different disciplines:


NOTE: For emphases in the sciences and mathematics, a minimum of two courses must have a laboratory or field component. Students interested in pursuing their education in the sciences are advised to complete more laboratory and/or field courses.

Biotechnology:


Computer Science:


Environmental Studies:


Marine Science:


Total Units Required: 18-22


To obtain the Associate in Science degree with an Emphasis in Natural Sciences, students will have to:


  1. Complete
    1. The CSU General Education Certification pattern, a minimum of 39 units.
      OR
    2. The IGETC Certification pattern, a minimum of 36 units.
      OR
    3. The IVC Associate Degree General Education pattern, a minimum of 31 units. 
  2. Complete a minimum of 18 units from the courses listed in the emphasis, with at least one course taken in three different disciplines.
  3. Complete any elective, degree-applicable courses needed to bring the total number of units to 60.
  4. Maintain a 2.0 overall GPA and a grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P” in all courses taken in the area of emphasis.
  5. Satisfy the residency and competency requirements as stated on Associate Degree Graduation Requirements .

Students are advised to consult with faculty in the fields of interest within the emphasis to identify career areas and to consult with a counselor to clarify graduation requirements and/or to determine specific transfer paths. The courses within each concentration described in the emphasis represent clusters of courses designed to prepare students for common traditional university major areas of study, for certificate programs, or for technical education certificates.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the AA degree with Emphasis in Natural Sciences, students will be able to

  • Demonstrate comprehension of chemical and biological reality by understanding how fundamental natural science principles underlie the huge variety of natural phenomena and their interconnectedness.
  • Apply the scientific method to a concept/lab/current situation by demonstrating the ability to ask a relevant question, create a hypothesis that addresses the question, gather data using either experimentation and or observation, interpret the data and form a conclusion.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of form, function, mechanism, organization, scale, hierarchy, diversity and evolution pertaining to the natural sciences.
  • Inspect data and apply basic statistics to their analysis.

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