Associate in Science
If you are interested in pursuing a career in a science-related field, then working towards a college degree can be useful. Both campus-based traditional and online schools offer degrees in science. A variety of degrees are offered in science-related fields that may prepare you for multiple careers paths. You may pursue a career in engineering, technology, business, healthcare or architecture. Employment of biomedical engineers is projected to grow by 27% between 2012 and 2022, faster than the average for all other occupations as cited by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Jobs for nurses are also expected to grow during the same period.
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Associate in Science
An associate in science is a 2-year degree that may provide students with the fundamental knowledge in science. The duration of the program may vary by the enrollment status of candidates. Students interested in this degree must hold a high school diploma or GED. A candidate for an associate degree may major in engineering, nursing, pharmacy, architecture, engineering, network management, business administration or information technology.
Program Coursework
An associate degree's curriculum will differ from program to program. For example, a degree in nursing may include topics such as primary healthcare, clinical nursing practice and health optimizations. Communication systems and linear differential equations are some of the courses students may study in the engineering programs. A degree in information technology may cover subjects such as operating systems, communications and project management. In addition to classroom-based learning, some science based degrees may also include laboratory course work.
Admissions Requirements
A high school diploma or its equivalent may be required to enroll in a science degree. Some programs may require candidates to have science background, such as chemistry, physics, and biology while others may require them to have prior work experience. In addition, candidates may also have to provide letters of recommendation, statement of purpose and an interview.
Career Outlook
An associate degree in science may help students find employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, architecture, medical equipment and supplies manufacturing, scientific research and development services or engineering firms. They may also become healthcare experts, engineers, researchers or teachers.
The type of job, area of specialty, location and experience are some of the factors that may determine the income of graduates of science. According to the BLS, the median annual income of biomedical engineers in 2012 was $86,960 and the median annual wage of registered nurses was $65,470.
Continuing Education
Bachelor's, master's as well PhD programs are also available for students who want to gain in depth knowledge in science subjects. These advanced degrees may help students qualify for administrative or leadership roles within various industries. Working professionals can pursue advanced degrees in science for career advancement. A bachelor's degree in science may take 4 years to complete while the master's degree requires 1-2 years for completion. PhD degrees can be earned in 5-7 years. The duration of a program may depend on the enrollment status of the students.