General Studies
Associate of Science Degree
Purpose: This program of general studies offers students the opportunity to design a curriculum that meets their particular transfer objectives and at the same time fulfills the standard requirements for the associate in science degree. The student, with the initial assistance of a counselor, plans both the general education goals to be achieved and the elective course work that will satisfy the degree requirements. The program has advantages in cases in which (1) other PVCC transfer programs do not correspond to the requirements of the transfer institution which the students has selected; (2) students enter with numerous transfer credits that are, in the main, applicable to completion of the general studies program rather than to other associate degree curricula; and (3) students have defined certain individual and occupational general education goals and wish to achieve them within the associate degree format.
Special Considerations: Students who are undecided about their individual goals, transfer objectives, and general interests may not find this program particularly advantageous. Such students should consult with a faculty mentor to explore their options prior to program selection.
The student who selects general studies is basically making a commitment to design his or her course of study in consultation with a faculty mentor, and assumes responsibility for making the program relevant to his or her particular needs.
Since the program offers students a choice of general education course work in mathematics, laboratory science, social science, history, and also general electives, it is extremely important for the student to use care in course selection. If the primary goal is transfer, the student must learn in advance the particular general education requirements of the intended transfer College or university. If the primary goal involves other objectives, the student must carefully consult with his or her faculty advisor before selecting courses.
Admission Requirements: The general admission requirements to the College apply. There are no specific admission requirements to this program other than those that apply to any associate degree program. That is, persons applying shall be high school graduates or the equivalent or have completed an approved developmental (preparatory) program. Students with deficiencies in reading, writing, or mathematics will be required to take developmental studies prior to beginning College level course work.
Program Requirements: This curriculum consists of required courses in College composition, information technology, and humanities as well as general education elective course work in history, mathematics, laboratory science, social science, and health or physical education.
Finally, the general studies program offers students a number of elective courses each semester. If the student plans to transfer, he or she should determine the requirements of the particular institution and choose, in consultation with the faculty mentor, college transfer electives that apply. Upon satisfactory completion of the four-semester program, the graduate will be awarded the associate of science in general studies degree.
For more information, contact:
Cliff Haury, Dean
Division of Humanities Fine Arts and Social Sciences
434.961.5380
chaury@pvcc.edu
