With a degree concentration in science, you can expect to take a number of science courses. You may want to focus on biology, chemistry or physics, working your way through advanced courses in these subjects. Some colleges offer courses of study in geography and oceanography, but the availability of courses in oceanography, for example, may vary depending on the location of your school.
You'll need to pass the first level of college math, usually a pre-calculus course, to meet your mathematics requirement for an AA degree. Some students need to take lower level math to build their skills before taking more advanced courses. If you have a particular goal, such as engineering or medical school, you may elect to take additional math courses as part of your AA degree so you can focus on the coursework necessary for an advanced degree.
As part of your degree requirements, you'll need to take composition courses, and you'll most likely take them when you first enter college. Writing helps build the foundation for skills you need in other classes since much of your college coursework will require essays or other written projects. Along with writing, your school may also require a class in public speaking.
Your state may require you to have a certain level of study in a foreign language. Students entering college from high school may meet the state requirements, but older students may need to take one or two years of foreign language. Academic advisers can help you determine if you need to study foreign language for your AA degree.
Some programs require credits in humanities as part of the Associate of Arts degree. You may choose to take courses in philosophy or literature. Other humanities options may include music study or theater arts.
This degree also allows you take elective courses, and, since programs may vary, your academic adviser can tell you how many elective credits you need. Some students choose to take fun courses as part of their required elective credits. Your school may offer sports instruction, for example. You may also choose to take classes that interest you but do not apply toward your career goals. For instance, if you enjoy writing, you may want to take a class in poetry. As well, you may choose to apply additional courses in math and science toward your elective credits.