SPECIALIZATIONS
Science
Computer Science
Mathematics
Mathematics and Science Teacher Preparation
PURPOSE: The associate degree in Science is intended for those who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor of science degree in the natural and physical sciences, mathematics, or computer science. There are four specializations in this degree program that enable students to complete courses that align with their intended majors at a four-year college or university.
The Science specialization is designed for persons who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university in a major that requires a background in the natural or physical sciences and mathematics. With the many advances taking place in all areas of science, the opportunities for persons with expertise in this area are rapidly increasing. This program provides the necessary training for transfer into a broad range of scientific fields, from botany to zoology and from chemistry or geology to physics. In addition, the Science specialization is designed to meet the requirements for admission to a professional school or upper-division major for career preparation in many of the medical professions including nursing, pharmacy, medicine, and veterinary medicine.
The Computer Science specialization is designed for persons who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university in a major that requires a background in the sciences, mathematics, and computer science. Student familiarity with or expertise in computer science is frequently a requirement for study in the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physics, science education, engineering, manufacturing, and related fields. This program will provide the opportunity to obtain this needed preparation. In this rapidly changing field, students should regularly meet with their advisor to keep up with course and curriculum updates.
The Mathematics specialization is designed for persons who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university in a major that requires a background in the sciences, mathematics, and computer science. The Mathematics specialization includes the courses usually required in the first two years of a baccalaureate degree program in mathematics.
The Mathematics and Science Teacher Preparation specialization is designed for persons who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university in a major that requires a background in the sciences and/or mathematics, and who plan to teach at the elementary, middle, or secondary school level. The Mathematics and Science Teacher Preparation specialization enables the student to participate in field experiences in area schools.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: General college curricular admission
PROGRAM NOTES: The following high school units are strongly recommended for the Science specialization: four units of English, three units of college preparatory mathematics, one unit of laboratory science, and two units of foreign language.
The following high school units are strongly recommended for the Computer Science and Mathematics specializations: four units of English; four units of college preparatory mathematics, including algebra (two units), geometry, and trigonometry (or advanced math); two units of laboratory science; and one unit of social studies. Students in the Computer Science and Mathematics specializations are urged to begin their programs of study during the fall semester because many courses are sequential and only offered once a year.
Students are encouraged to seek information from the upper-division college, university, or professional school to which transfer is intended as to specific requirements for a particular major or specific admission requirements. Students are advised that grades of C or higher are required for a course to transfer to a 4-year institution.
NOTE TO PROSPECTIVE TEACHERS: Students who wish to be licensed to teach in Virginia should earn a baccalaureate degree in a liberal arts, science, or mathematics field. Students should consult with their advisor regarding elective choices that match their desired teaching endorsement area(s). While enrolled at the community college, students should prepare for and successfully complete Praxis Core (Reading, Writing, and Mathematics), the initial teacher licensure examination.
COMPUTER COMPETENCY REQUIREMENT: Students in this program will meet the college’s computer competency requirement by passing the computer competency exam, administered in the testing centers on each campus, or by completing CSC 155 . Students not passing the computer competency exam for CSC 155 may retake the exam only once.
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