Natural Science AS Degree Program

Program Overview

The Natural Science Associate in Science (AS) degree program at Skyline College provides a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of natural sciences, preparing students for further studies in sciences or related fields. The program offers a balanced curriculum with flexibility to cater to students' interests, encompassing core courses in Organismal Biology and Introduction to Cell Biology, as well as elective courses in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geology, and Physics. Graduates are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of natural sciences, essential laboratory techniques, and critical thinking skills, preparing them for entry-level careers or advanced studies in four-year institutions.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Natural Science Associate in Science (AS) degree program at Skyline College provides a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of natural sciences, preparing students for further studies in sciences or related fields. Completion of this two-year program allows students to transfer to four-year institutions or pursue entry-level careers in various sectors.

Objectives:

Upon completion of the Natural Science AS program, students will:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness and diversity of living organisms, their adaptations, and survival mechanisms.
• Gain a profound knowledge of cell biology, including cell structure, function, and experimental approaches used to study cellular processes.
• Enhance their written communication skills in science, enabling them to articulate complex concepts clearly and persuasively, supported by scientific evidence.
• Master essential laboratory techniques employed in scientific research, such as microscopy, spectrophotometry, gel electrophoresis, and PCR.
• Acquire the ability to design, execute, and analyze scientific experiments, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Prepare for advanced studies in Biology at four-year institutions.

Program:

This program encompasses a balanced curriculum with flexibility to cater to students' interests. Students are required to complete 18-24 units from a range of science courses, including Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geology, and Physics. The program also incorporates General Education coursework and electives to meet the 60-unit requirement for the Associate degree.

Outline:

Course Schedule:

The program offers a sequence of core courses that provide a comprehensive foundation in natural sciences:

• Core I: Organismal Biology (BIOL 215) explores the diversity and adaptations of living organisms.
• Core II: Introduction to Cell Biology (BIOL 230) delves into the fundamental principles of cellular structure, function, and regulation.

Elective Courses:

Students can choose from various elective courses to align with their specific interests and career aspirations. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Biology: Human Physiology (BIOL 260)
• Chemistry: General Chemistry I and II (CHEM 210, 220), Organic Chemistry I and II (CHEM 234, 235) with corresponding labs (CHEM 237, 238)
• Computer Science: Computer Programming Visual Basic (COMP 155), Programming Methods I: C++ (COMP 250)
• Geology: General Geology (GEOL 210)
• Physics: General Physics I and II (PHYS 210, 220), Physics with Calculus I, II, and III (PHYS 250, 260, 270)

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The program employs a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student progress, including:

• Exams and Quizzes: Regular assessments to gauge understanding of course concepts and theories.
• Homework Assignments: Reinforcement of course material and development of analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Lab Reports: Evaluation of students' experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing abilities.
• Presentations: Opportunities for students to demonstrate their communication and scientific inquiry skills.

Criteria:

Assessment criteria focus on:

• Content Knowledge: Accuracy and depth of understanding of scientific concepts.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to critically analyze data, identify patterns, and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Communication Skills: Effectiveness in conveying scientific information both verbally and in writing.
• Laboratory Skills: Proficiency in conducting experiments, handling equipment, and interpreting results.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles:

• Interactive Lectures: Engaging and informative presentations that introduce key concepts and theories.
• Laboratory Experiments: Hands-on experiences that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills.
• Discussions and Group Work: Collaborative activities that encourage critical thinking, information sharing, and problem-solving.
• Independent Study: Opportunities for students to pursue in-depth exploration of specific topics or projects.

Faculty:

The program is led by highly qualified and experienced faculty members with expertise in their respective fields. They are committed to providing personalized guidance and support to students throughout their academic journey.

Unique Approaches:

To enhance student learning, the program incorporates innovative approaches, such as:

• Inquiry-Based Learning: Encouraging students to actively engage with the material, ask questions, and construct their understanding.
• Technology Integration: Leveraging online platforms, simulations, and other digital tools to enhance learning experiences.
• Community-Based Research: Collaborations with local organizations to provide students with real-world research opportunities.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates of the Natural Science AS program can pursue diverse career paths, including:

• Laboratory Technician: Conducting experiments, analyzing data, and supporting research in various industries.
• Environmental Scientist: Investigating environmental issues, developing solutions, and implementing conservation measures.
• Healthcare Professional: Pursuing further studies in nursing, medicine, dentistry, or other healthcare fields.
• Science Educator: Inspiring the next generation of scientists by teaching in high schools or community colleges.
• Science Writer: Communicating scientific concepts and research findings to a wider audience.
• Research Scientist: Conducting independent research and contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.