Chemistry – Associate of Science Degree

Program Details

Credential Received

Associate of Science Degree Chemistry

Overview

Program Summary

Combine in-class theory with hands-on experiments in the lab to get the experience you need for success. Learn the basics of using chemical equipment to measure physical and chemical properties. Working in the laboratory while you study chemistry fundamentals will ensure you will be ready for success in further education as you work towards your degree in chemistry, medicine, dentistry, engineering, nutrition, pharmacy and much, much more.

What is the structure of DNA, and how does that allow it to replicate? Why is carbon added to iron to make steel? How do plants transform sunlight to energy? Do solar panels use the same trick? Why do manufacturers put additives in food, and should we worry? An understanding of the basic structure of matter is important not only to chemistry majors, but to biologists, physicists, and engineers and physicians as well. Chemistry is truly the “central science.”

An Associate Degree in Chemistry provides excellent preparation for students looking to complete university science degrees, and for those who are just looking to strengthen their problem-solving skills.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of an Associate of Science program, learners will be able to:

• explain terms, concepts, and theories of introductory-level science.
• read, write, and communicate effectively and creatively across academic disciplines.
• demonstrate developing critical, creative thinking, and problem solving skills.
• follow laboratory guidelines, processes, and protocols.
• demonstrate developing research skills.
• apply developing quantitative reasoning skills.
• apply the scientific method.
• use current and emerging technology.
• demonstrate collaborative skills in a multi-cultural environment.
• conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner in an academic environment.

Program Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

In addition to meeting the general admission requirements to Selkirk College, applicants to the University Arts and Sciences program must meet the following requirements to be considered fully qualified:

• Minimum grade of 67% in Math 12 or Pre-Calc 12
• Minimum grade of 60% in English 12 or English 12 First Peoples or equivalent.
• Biology 12, Chemistry 11, and Physics 11 with a minimum grade of 67%. Physics 12 is recommended and Chemistry 12 is STRONGLY recommended.

Additional Requirements

• Students whose first language is not English must fulfill the College’s English language proficiency requirement. See Policy 8611: Admissions.
• Students who do not meet this requirement must write the Language Proficiency Index (LPI) test and achieve a minimum of level 4 to attain equivalency.
• Mature students must meet the English 12 requirement.
• Students who lack the admission requirements may still gain admission to the program by taking a combination of Academic upgrading and university courses during the first year. This mode of entry may extend the length of their program.

Graduation and Promotion

All Associate of Science students are required to complete:

• Six semester courses in science at the 100-level or higher.
• Six semester courses in second-year science in two or more subject areas.
• Of the above, at least one course must be a lab science. Geology courses and Geography 130 and 232 are considered lab sciences.
• Two semester courses in math. At least one math course must be in calculus. Students may choose statistics for the second math course.
• Two semester courses in first-year English.
• Two semester courses in Arts other than first-year English.
• Two semester courses in Arts, Sciences, or other areas.*
• Students must achieve a GPA of 2.0.

* Each course must transfer for three or more credits to at least one of SFU, UBC (Vancouver or Okanagan), UNBC or UVIC. See the BC Online Transfer guide at www.bc.transferguide.ca.