AA/AS in Chemistry

The Chemistry associate degree readies students to move on to a four-year school and continue studying chemistry. Its course plan meets the lower-division expectations suggested by the American Chemical Society and mirrors what transfer institutions commonly ask for. Stated outcomes include interpreting data, both qualitative and quantitative, to spot patterns and identify substances, reporting results in writing and orally, and using chemical terminology and concepts accurately. Careers linked to the field include analytical chemist, biochemist, forensic specialist, laboratory technician, pharmacist, and water-quality analyst, and most need a bachelor's degree or higher. Help with course planning comes from the Counseling Center and chemistry faculty. The department also recommends a year of Russian or German to satisfy a humanities requirement in the general education pattern.