General Studies: Communication and Analytical Thinking Emphasis, Associate in Arts

This degree provides an opportunity for students to earn an Associate in Arts (AA) degree in a comprehensive area of study. It is intended for the student who is not currently preparing to transfer to a university. A minimum of 60 semester units must be completed with an overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 or better in all degree-applicable units. Only courses numbered 1-299 may be applied toward this associate degree.

These courses improve effective communication and analytical thinking, which enable the bridging of disciplines. Through the use of effective resources, students are able to interpret and analyze problems, evaluate answers, make judgments, and enhance their general knowledge.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • Form a provable thesis, develop it through factual research, distinguish between fact and opinion, and make effective rhetorical choices in relation to audience and purpose.
  • Analyze and evaluate complex issues or problems, draw reasoned conclusions and/or generate solutions, and effectively communicate their results.
  • Analyze and interpret human thought, achievement, and expression relevant to such branches of knowledge as philosophy, literature, and/or the fine and performing arts, and to communicate the results.

Associate in Arts Degree Major Requirements

Required Core
Select 18 units from at least two disciplines from courses listed below:18
Human Resources Management
Business Mathematics
Computer Information Systems
Programming Fundamentals: Python
Programming Methods I: Java
Programming Methods II: Java
Programming Methods I.5: C and C++
Computer Forensics
Critical Thinking and Public Education
College Composition
College Composition: Enhanced
Argumentative Writing and Critical Thinking
Introduction to Discourse Analysis
Mathematics for General Education
Number Systems
Pre-Calculus
College Algebra for STEM
Trigonometry
Elementary Statistics
Introduction to Statistics for the Social Sciences
Finite Math
Calculus and Analytic Geometry for Biology/Soc Sci/Business
Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
Calculus with Analytic Geometry II
Calculus of Several Variables
Linear Algebra
Differential Equations
Discrete Mathematics
Introduction to Logic
Introduction to Critical Thinking
Introduction to Political Science Research Methods
Introduction to Research Methods
Public Speaking
Small Group Communication
Interpersonal Communication
TOTAL MAJOR UNITS18
Additional Requirements42
Complete Competency Requirements, general education pattern (MPC General Education, CSU General Education, or IGETC), and electives, if needed, for a total of 60 degree-applicable units.
Total Units60

Please refer to the graduation requirements section of the Catalog for information about degree and certificate requirements including Reading and Writing, Mathematics, Information Competency, and General Education requirements.