Liberal Arts and Sciences: Science A.S.

Associate in Science

CIP Code: 24.0101

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Mission

The mission of the Liberal Arts & Sciences: Science A.S. Program is to prepare students for successful transfer to baccalaureate institutions, by providing a dynamic, interdisciplinary, university-parallel track to intellectual inquiry both in and out of the science field. By providing a diverse educational experience, small class sizes and connections with faculty mentors and advisors, students in the LAAS program will obtain the fundamental concepts and knowledge in scientific reasoning, critical analysis, communication, research and laboratory skills to excel in University science programs for future careers in the sciences.  

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Students will construct and articulate coherent texts within common college level written forms; revise and improve such texts; research a topic, develop an argument, and organize supporting details, while critically examining sources for quality and validity in order to increase STEM knowledge and skillsets.
2. Students will compare and contrast the methods used by social and natural scientists, and/or those in the humanities that explore the society, natural world, and challenges facing humanity.
3. Students will demonstrate the ability to interpret and draw inferences from mathematical models such as formulas, graphs, tables and schematics; employ quantitative methods to solve problems; estimate and check mathematical results for reasonableness; and recognize the limits of mathematical and statistical methods.
4. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the methods scientists use to explore natural phenomena, including observation, hypothesis development, measurement and data collection, experimentation, evaluation of empirical and critical evidence, and employment of mathematical analysis, while recognizing the limitations of modeling, current technologies, and experimental constraints.
5. Students will develop fundamental skills to be successful within their current and future academic and professional pursuits.

Program Supervisor

Dr. Richard F. Firenze
SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor - Department Chair, Biology
Office: Natural Science Center, Room 207E
Telephone: +1 (607) 778-511

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The Liberal Arts and Sciences: Science degree is housed in the S.T.E.M. Division and is designed to prepare students for successful transfer to baccalaureate institutions, by providing a dynamic, interdisciplinary, university-parallel track to intellectual inquiry both in and out of the science field. This degree program provides a diverse educational experience, small class sizes and connections with faculty mentors and advisors. Students in the LAAS program will obtain the fundamental concepts and knowledge in scientific reasoning, critical analysis, communication, research and laboratory skills to excel in University science programs for future careers in science.

The program is designed for students planning careers in such areas as:

• Health Care - Physician, Pharmacist, Physical Therapist, Dentist, Veterinarian, etc.
• Biological Science - Environmental Scientist, Forester, Wildlife Biologist, Microbiologist, Geneticist, Marine Biologist, etc.
• Chemistry - Biochemist, Marine Chemist, Forensic Chemist, Food Scientist, etc.
• Physical Science - Astronomer, Geologist, Meteorologist, Paleontologist, Physicist, etc.
• Science Education - Science Teachers (Elementary, Middle, or High School), College Professors, etc.

The LAAS Program has transfer articulations with several colleges and universities including: Cornell University, Binghamton University, St. John Fisher College of Pharmacy, Binghamton University College of Pharmacy, and Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse University.  LAAS students also transfer to all SUNY Colleges and University Centers (Binghamton, Buffalo, Albany, and Stony Brook), Colgate University, St. Bonaventure University, Unity College, Syracuse University as well as many others.