Science
Associate of Science in Science
The Associate of Science in Science is a versatile two-year degree designed for students interested in pursuing further study or careers in scientific fields. This program provides a broad foundation in the natural and physical sciences, including coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, while also fulfilling general education requirements. Completion of this degree will enable students to transfer to a four-year institution for additional studies leading to a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, physics, or environmental science.
Throughout this program, students will gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on laboratory skills essential for success in upper-division science courses and future STEM careers. Whether your goal is scientific research, medicine, technology, or environmental work, this degree offers flexibility and preparation to pursue a wide range of academic and professional pathways. The A.S. in Science equips students with the knowledge and skills to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving scientific and technological landscape.
Experiential Learning
The core science classes for this degree include laboratories in which hands-on learning makes science concepts come to life.
Specific activities include:
- Use a microscope to study microorganisms and tissues from plants and animals
- Purify DNA from living material; use gel electrophoresis
- Analyze the chemical composition of an unknown substance
- Use titrations to study acid/base neutralizations and redox reactions
- Launch projectiles and compare their motion to their predicted trajectory
- Measure the acceleration of gravity in Los Alamos
- Identify and study local geological features on field trips
- Identify hand-specimens of minerals and rock types
Faculty Expertise
Your instructors in the Science degree program have Master’s degrees and PhD’s in their subject areas. Most have years of work experience in their field and are passionate about teaching and mentoring students. They are knowledgeable professionals who are dedicated to student success.
Career Opportunities
Occupations in science are both lucrative and challenging. There is a great diversity of occupations in the sciences, requiring degrees ranging from the associates to bachelor’s and higher. Geology technicians might spend their days hiking and collecting samples for analysis in the labs, while biological technicians may spend their time in a lab doing research that will help solve medical mysteries. Overall employment in this field is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations over the next ten years. The median annual wage for scientists with a bachelor’s degree was about $78,000 in 2023, higher than the median annual wage overall. Find information on job titles and descriptions, education requirements, salaries and more:
Occupational Outlook: Life, Physical and Social Sciences
See what a chemical technician does:
See what a physicist does:
See what a biological technician does:
See what a geologist does:
Program Highlights
For many students, laboratory experiences are the highlight of their academic studies. Opportunities to apply new learning to real-life experiences and scenarios are engaging and highly motivating for students in this program.
Program Details
Please visit the catalog for more information on this program:
Program Cost
Information on tuition and fees can be found here:
Typical additional costs include textbooks and lab fees.
Contact Information
Coordinator, Department of Sciences
Dr. Robin Kelly
Lecturer III, Chemistry
robinkelly@unm.edu