Physical Science (AS)
Associate in Science (AS)
Featured Faculty - Science/Math
Math and Sciences Chair/Associate Professor
Degree Requirements16 credits completed in residence
2.00 (C) grade point average
62 total credits
ASC 100-Freshman Seminar
The primary goals of the physical science curriculum are:
1. To encourage development of a liberal arts education;
2. To help students select a major and plan a program of study that leads to a baccalaureate degree;
3. To develop a solid foundation of fundamental knowledge both in the sciences and mathematics;
4. To assist the student in choosing and successfully transferring to a university for completion of a baccalaureate curriculum.
The physical science curriculum is not generally a college major in itself, but is a springboard into a variety of college majors. Therefore, the academic advisor will assist the student in selecting a major during the freshman or sophomore year. The course of study will depend upon which university the student plans to attend. Possible university majors for the physical science student to consider include astronomy, chemistry, consumer food science, geology, meteorology, and physics.
The major distinction between the physical science and the natural science curriculums is the mathematical rigor. A physical science program requires three semesters of analytical geometry and calculus. The natural science curriculum requires one semester of statistics and two semesters of introductory calculus. The physical science curriculum requires university physics while the natural science curriculum requires concepts of physics. A natural science program is well suited for majors in zoology, entomology, microbiology, botany, and ecology. The physical science curriculum is designed to accommodate majors in chemistry, physics, and geology.
The curriculum outlined below is based on most common baccalaureate program requirements. Students may earn an Associate's degree in Liberal Arts at WSC, but must transfer to a baccalaureate campus to complete a Bachelor's degree in Physical Science.
Suggested Courses Credits
General Biology I L/L
(Depending on math background, MATH 102, 103, and/or 105 may be required)
The courses listed above are reflective of those most commonly required in preparation for transfer to another college or university For specific baccalaureate degree requirements, students should consult the catalog of the campus to which they intend to transfer.