Chemistry, Associate in Arts Degree
Banner code: 2_AA_CHEM
Control number: 18355
Financial aid: Eligible
The Associate in Arts Degree in Chemistry prepares students for further study in chemistry or related physical and life science disciplines. It also provides a background in general chemistry that includes skills appropriate for entry-level employment in science-related industries or laboratories, such as environmental, pharmaceutical, or materials chemistry. Coursework includes instruction in molecular-level interpretations of the properties and reactions of inorganic and organic substances.
Program Level Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Develop a working knowledge of inorganic and organic chemistry, including calculations, reactions, and nomenclature.
- Develop an understanding of how chemistry is applied in other fields.
- Improve problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Actively engage in hands-on experiences in both the classroom and the laboratory.
- Interpret experimental information, develop relationships, and correlate that experimental information with theory.
- Write quality laboratory reports, with well-developed discussions and conclusions.
- Develop laboratory skills, operate independently during many procedures, and learn to design experiments.
Associate Degree Graduation Requirements
(See GWC website for the most up-to-date information on Associate Degree Requirements.)
- Completion of General Education Requirements by one of the following methods:
- Completion of a minimum of 18 units as listed under Areas A through E, including the Cultural Diversity Requirement.
- Completion of a minimum of 39 units of CSU General Education requirements. Students who complete this pattern are also eligible to receive the Certificate of Achievement in CSU General Education Breadth.
- Completion of a minimum of 34 (UC) or 37 (CSU) units of Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) requirements. Students who complete this pattern are also eligible to receive the Certificate of Achievement in IGETC.
- Completion of a Major or Area of Emphasis—a minimum of 18 units.
- Completion of additional elective units to a total of 60 units.
- 2.0 overall Grade Point Average at GWC and 2.0 overall Grade Point Average for all colleges attended.
- At least 12 units completed at GWC.
Students should consult a GWC counselor in order to select the best pathway to meet their educational goals. For students who intend to transfer, the choice of general education will be specific to both their major and transfer institution.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| CHEM G180 | General Chemistry A | 5 |
| CHEM G185 | General Chemistry B | 5 |
| CHEM G220 | Organic Chemistry A | 5 |
| CHEM G225 | Organic Chemistry B | 5 |
| MATH G180 | Calculus 1 | 5 |
| Major Total | 25 | |
| GE Pattern (Local, CSU GE-Breadth, or IGETC) | 18-39 | |
| Total Units | 60 | |
Recommended Program Sequence
These sequences are general course maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, completion of short-term certificates, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. However, this may not be an appropriate path for all students. The two-year sequence is based on English and Math placement and meeting other course prerequisites. Students are advised to meet with a GWC Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.
Year 1:
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | ||
| CHEM G130 | Preparation for General Chemistry (or placement - prerequisite for CHEM G180) | 4 |
| ENGL G100 | Freshman Composition ^ | 4 |
| Area E: Lifelong Understanding and Self-Development or Area A: English Language, Area B: Natural Sciences, Area C: Arts & Humanities, Area D: Social & Behavioral Sciences | 3 | |
| Elective coursework for a total of 3 units | 3 | |
| Units | 14 | |
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | ||
| CHEM G180 | General Chemistry A | 5 |
| Area D: Social & Behavioral Sciences course | 3 | |
| Elective coursework for a total of 6 units | 6 | |
| Units | 14 | |
Year 2:
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 3 | ||
| CHEM G185 | General Chemistry B | 5 |
| MATH G180 | Calculus 1 | 5 |
| Area C: Arts & Humanities course | 3 | |
| Units | 13 | |
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 4 | ||
| CHEM G220 | Organic Chemistry A | 5 |
| Elective coursework for a total of 9 units | 9 | |
| Cultural Diversity requirement # | 3 | |
| Units | 17 | |
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 5 | ||
| CHEM G225 | Organic Chemistry B | 5 |
| Units | 5 | |
| Total minimum units required | 60 | |
| * | Cultural Diversity requirement list of approved courses |
| ^ | Program sequence may not be recommended for students who self-place into ENGL G100S. Students should see a Counselor for appropriate advisement. |