Science, AS

Department of Biology

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Program Overview

Science, AS

Are you a problem-solver who loves to figure out how the world works? The Associate of Science (A.S.) in Science is a two-year program designed for students who want to dive deep into biology, chemistry, and physics. Whether you dream of working in a hospital, a research lab, or as a data expert, this degree gives you the strong foundation you need. You can choose a path that fits your goals: Biology & Pre-Allied Health (for future doctors, nurses, and therapists) or Mathematics.

Major

Description

In this program, you won’t just read about science—you’ll do it! Most of your core classes include hands-on labs where you’ll conduct experiments and learn professional techniques.

Why choose this program?

  • Choose Your Path: Focus on Biology & Pre-Allied Health to learn about the human body and germs, or choose Mathematics to master the language of numbers and logic.
  • Smart Start: This degree is designed to transfer easily into a 4-year Bachelor’s program. It’s a great way to save money while taking the exact same high-level science classes you’d find at a larger university.
  • Modern Skills: You’ll gain “computer literacy” and “scientific world” skills that are essential for any modern career in tech or medicine.

Program and Degree

Requirements

The A.S Science requires a total of at least 60 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.0 overall. Key requirements are broken down into three main sections: Degree Requirements, General Education Requirements, and Major Requirements.

1. A.S. Degree Requirements

  • Total Credits: Earn at least 60 credits.
  • Residency: Earn at least 30 credits in Residence at Medgar Evers College.
  • GPA: Earn a minimum overall GPA of 2.0.
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences: Earn at least 30 credits of Liberal Arts and Sciences Content Courses.

2. General Education Requirements (CUNY Common Core & College Option)

These requirements cover the foundation of a liberal arts education.

  • Required Core (12 Credits):
    • English Composition: ENGL 112 and ENGL 150.
    • Mathematics and Quantitative Reasoning: 1 course (e.g., MTH 115, MTH 136, or a STEM variant like MTH 141 (Finite Math), which is required for the BS/Business program).
    • Life and Physical Sciences: 1 course (e.g., BIO 101 or PHS 101).
  • Flexible Core (18 Credits – 6 Courses): Complete one course in each of the five areas, plus an additional Flexible Core course in any area.
    • World Cultures and Global Issues (e.g., ANTH 201).
    • U.S. Experience in its Diversity (e.g., HIST 200).
    • Creative Expressions (e.g., ART 100).
    • Individual and Society (e.g., ECON 212 or ECON 213).
    • Scientific World (e.g., CIS 101).
  • One Flexible Core Course (Any Area)

3. Major Requirements

The major requires a minimum GPA of 2.0.

  • Required Core Courses (17 Courses):
    • Education: EDUC 102, EDUC 501, EDUC 110, EDUC 152, EDUC 502, EDUC 231, EDUC 503, EDUC 350, EDUC 504, EDUC 355
    • Liberal Arts: ENGL 209, FS 101, FS 102, MTH 231, PSYC 101, GEOG 101, HIST 201.

Concentration Tracks (Earn at least 12 credits)

  • Biology & Pre-Allied Health:
    • BIO 251/BIOL 251 (Human Anatomy and Physiology I + Lab)
    • BIO 252/BIOL 252 (Human Anatomy and Physiology II + Lab)
    • BIO 261/BIOL 261 (Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology for Health Professions + Lab)

    *Note: Students interested in medical or health professions should register for BIO 102 in place of FS 102.

  • Mathematics:
    • MTH 151 (Precalculus), MTH 202 (Calculus I)
    • MTH 203 (Calculus II)
    • Choose one: MTH 204 (Calculus III) OR MTH 206 (Introduction to Mathematical Proof).

Degree Map

A Degree Map (or Academic Pathway/Plan) is an advising tool that outlines a suggested sequence of courses to complete the A.S. in Science degree in a timely and efficient manner, often over two years (four semesters).

2-Year Degree Map