Hegis # 5649

Program Description

The Associate in Science degree program in Liberal Arts and Sciences with a Mathematics and Natural Science emphasis is designed specifically for students to transfer, with junior status, to the appropriate upper-level college or university of their choice, where theycan complete the B.S./B.A. degree in their chosen field of study. As such, the program provides core courses and general educationrequirements that would be included in the first two years of study at four-year institutions. This degree gives mathematics/sciencestudents the flexibility to match a program to their individual goals, backgrounds and talents. The various curricula provide theopportunity to pursue a variety of academic and career interests in mathematics and in the natural/physical sciences.

The course distribution in mathematics and science is designed to provide a solid foundation in the basics of natural and physical sciences/mathematics: future advanced coursework will build on this foundation. The general education elective credits round out thecurriculum in this degree program. Students should consult the appropriate department chairperson and faculty for specific adviceabout pursuing a particular discipline within this area. Such consultation will facilitate the correct level of course choice and rigorrequired to match the student’s transfer plans as they work toward a bachelor’s degree.

This degree has been approved by SUNY and NYS Education Department for online distance learning delivery. This does not mean that SUNY Orange offers every course in the program online; however, many are offered in this format. Please check the current credit course schedule for online DL virtual course listings offered each semester.

Program Outcomes

Students will:

• demonstrate essential and foundational knowledge in the natural sciences and liberal arts
• demonstrate understanding of the methods scientists use to explore natural phenomena, including observation, hypothesis development, measurement and data collection, experimentation, evaluation of evidence, and employment of mathematical analysis
• perform mathematically with proper notation and vocabulary commensurate with chosen field of study
• demonstrate ability to apply systematic reasoning and critical thinking skills
• demonstrate effective communication both oral and written

Admission Criteria

Admission to this program requires that students be high school graduates or have high school equivalency diplomas (HSEs). If students are home schooled, they may be eligible for admission.

Before initiating study for this A.S. degree a student must have achieved a mathematical proficiency which includes intermediate level algebra. At SUNY Orange, this means that a student must have tested beyond Intermediate Algebra (MAT 102 ) to begin progress toward this degree. If this is not the case the student must speak with an advisor in order to choose the proper preparatory courses.

For students with more defined career goals, see the four-semester course sequences for Chemsitry and Math.

Transfer Options

SUNY Orange has special relationships with upper-level colleges and universities for transfer. Students regularly transfer with junior status to colleges and universities in the State University of New York System as well as to private and state colleges and universities across the country.

Your Career Coach

Career opportunities exist in the following areas:

• professional degrees or working in private sector firms in the various fields
• R&D or laboratory opportunities in private and public sector
• positions in education on primary or secondary level
• chemistry
• geology
• mathematics
• physics/astronomy
• excellent background for other fields requiring mathematics/science proficiency, including:
  • biology
  • pre-professional training for medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, etc.
  • environmental sciences
  • Teaching or research