Associate in Science-Transfer to Biological Sciences, Environmental/Resource Sciences, Chemistry, Geology, and Earth Science (Concentration: Chemistry)

An associate degree in chemistry can be applied to a variety of career and degree paths moving forward. This degree will transfer directly into further studies in chemistry and biochemistry, as well as prove as a useful starting point for degrees in programs such as environmental or materials science. The skills obtained can also be immediately applicable to employment as a laboratory technician in such areas as medical research, manufacturing, or environmental testing and conservation.

Requirements

Importance of Advising. Advising is an important part of completing a degree. Each student should meet with an advisor as early as possible. Students are responsible for checking the transfer requirements of the college or university they plan to attend; advisors can help with this.

General Requirements

90 Credits Total: Complete at least 90 credits of courses numbered 100 or higher
2.0+ Cumulative GPA: Earn at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Note: Some Chemistry programs may require a higher cumulative GPA and/or a higher GPA in specific courses.
25% of Total Credits at Highline: Complete at least 25% of your total credits at Highline. This is the “Residency” requirement.
75+ Credits Fully Transferable: At least 75 credits must be designated as fully transferable. All Distribution Area and PE Activity courses are fully transferable.
Maximum 15 Credits Restricted: Courses that are not fully transferable are called “restricted.” Students can use no more than 15 restricted credits for their degree. Restricted courses include most Professional-Technical courses, College Studies, PE Activity courses, independent studies, credit by examination, military experience credit, CLEP and other nontraditional credit. AP courses are generally not restricted.
Maximum 15 Credits CR/NC: You can choose to have a course graded as CR/NC, but no more than 15 credits of CR/NC courses can apply to your degree.
Maximum 3 Credits PE Activity: All PE courses are either “Activity” or “Theory” courses. You can only use 3 credits of PE Activity for your degree.

For more information, refer to the Associate Degree and Certificate Requirements page.

Specific Requirements

Communication Skills: 5 credits

Complete the following:

ENGL& 101 - English Composition I

Humanities and Social Science: 15 credits

A complete list of courses in the Humanities and Social Science distributions can be found on the Distribution Areas page.

Complete the following:

5 credits in Humanities
5 credits in Social Sciences
5 credits in Humanities or Social Sciences

Quantitative Skills: 15 credits

Complete the following:

Pre-Major Program - Chemistry: 30 credits

Complete the following:

Pre-Major Program - Physics: 15 credits

Important: A student must complete one physics sequence in entirety, not mix courses from the two. Ask an advisor for help choosing a physics sequence based on your transfer and career goals. Some bachelor’s programs require calculus-based physics (PHYS 201, 202, and 203).

Complete the following:

Remaining Credits: 10 credits

Complete 10 credits of courses 100-level or higher. Ask an advisor for help choosing courses based on your transfer and career goals. Courses can include prerequisites such as pre-calculus.

Total Program Credits: 90

Learning Outcomes

Understand, make calculations regarding and explain the properties of materials.
Analyze samples and predict, measure and characterize the products of chemical reactions.
Design and carry out schemes for multistep synthesis of organic compounds.
Safely and effectively use laboratory equipment, chemicals and instruments to perform literature and experimental research, interpret data and prepare clear reports of results.
Use computer applications to help solve problems and communicate reports.
Work and study individually and as a member of a group, including respecting others and sharing labor to achieve objectives.
Effectively communicate chemical knowledge both in writing and verbal presentations.
Apply the understanding of science and chemistry to gain insight into sociopolitical issues such as energy, material resources and environmental quality and to assess and discuss public statements and policies relating to them.