STEM


Key Terms
- Research
- Problem Solving
- Mathematics
- Science
- Engineering
Are you interested in a career where you can improve your community and the world? Do you enjoy hands-on, discovery-based learning? Would you like to solve complex problems using innovative tools and technologies? If you answered yes to any of these, then explore the Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) pathway. Classes in this pathway build skills in design, research, problem-solving and creativity. This pathway can lead to a wide array of rewarding, well-paid, in-demand careers.
Explore Focus Areas
Focus areas are specific areas of emphasis within a pathway, which allow students to explore coursework and develop useful skills for their desired careers.
Chemistry
Chemistry is often called the Central Science. It is a growing field with many interdisciplinary opportunities in biology, physics, medicine and engineering. Many chemistry majors find careers in these fields as teachers, engineers, and health professionals.
Program Options
- Chemistry, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Science, Track I: Biological, Environmental/Resources, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, AS-T
- Associate Degree - Transfer
Computer Science
Students in this focus area develop an understanding of the basic principles and practices needed to program and maintain computers and computer systems. More advanced classes will prepare graduates to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the design of computer and software-based systems of varying complexity.
Program Options
- Computer Science, BS
- Bachelor Degree
Earth & Space Sciences
Earth and Space Sciences includes the study of our planet, its atmosphere, oceans, ecosystems and the universe beyond. Scientists in these fields study the observable world around us to understand natural processes and how human lives interact with the natural world. There are five different subjects within Earth and Space Science, each a separate major or career path to consider.
Program Options
- Astronomy, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Environmental Sciences, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Geology, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Meteorology, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Oceanography, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
Engineering
Engineering is the link between scientific discovery and innovative technological solutions to real-world problems. Engineers are concerned with a wide range of technologies, products and services including design, development, maintenance, and use of engines, machines, systems and structures. Engineering has a direct and vital impact on the quality of life for all people.
Program Options
- Science, Track II: MRP Chemical and Bio Engineering, AS-T
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Science, Track II: MRP Civil, Mechanical & Other Engineering, AS-T
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Science, Track II: MRP Electrical and Computer Engineering, AS-T
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Science, Track II: Physics, Atmospheric Sciences and Engineering, AS-T
- Associate Degree - Transfer
Life Science
Life Sciences is the study of living organisms and life processes. The Life Science program offers courses in general biology, botany, nutrition, marine biology, microbiology, and human anatomy/physiology.
Program Options
- Life Science, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Science, Track I: Biological, Environmental/Resources, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, AS-T
- Associate Degree - Transfer
Math
Mathematics is a rigorous and demanding intellectual pursuit. It develops analytical skills and the ability to work in a problem-solving environment. The national data shows that average starting salaries for math majors are highly ranked. In addition to higher pay, a math major's employment promises higher levels of job satisfaction with respect to income, stress, physical demands, potential growth, job security and work environment. There are variety of job opportunities in many applied fields.
Program Options
- Math, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
Molecular Bioscience
This pathway prepares students to design and carry out experiments, to use modern laboratory equipment, to analyze data, and to communicate scientific information to technical and non-technical audiences. Graduates of this program find jobs as laboratory technicians in biotech companies or research labs.
Program Options
- Molecular Biosciences, BAS
- Bachelor Degree
- Molecular Sciences Technician, AAS-T
- Associate Degree - Transfer
Physics
This focus area offers a hands-on experience in new facilities with small class sizes taught using instructional methods informed by the latest in Physics Education Research. Inquiry based courses, laboratory experiences, and an extensive lecture demonstration collection provide the means by which the subject can be literally put in your hands.
Program Options
- Physics, AAS-DTA
- Associate Degree - Transfer
- Science, Track II: Physics, Atmospheric Sciences and Engineering, AS-T
- Associate Degree - Transfer
Sustainability
The sustainability pathway prepares students to face some of the greatest challenges in human history: social injustice as it intersects with environmental change. Students gain knowledge and research skills while practicing critical thinking, communication, and creative problem solving. Any career students go into in the 21st Century is likely to value knowledge of sustainability.
Program Options
- Sustainability
- Associate Degree - Transfer
Academic Advising Contact

Crickett Watt
Academic Advisor

Jonny Diehl
Academic Advisor