Usually, you'll have to complete a minimum of four science classes to earn an associate's of science degree. Depending on your career or transfer goals, you'll choose from biology, chemistry or physics classes. Most associate's of science degree programs will stipulate that you take at least one sequential set of classes. For example, you'll take organic chemistry I in the fall semester and then take organic chemistry II in the spring.
Associate's of science degree programs require students to take science classes that include labs. In these classes, you'll first listen to your professor's classroom lecture as in other classes, and then you'll head to the lab to perform experiments. You'll probably be required to write formal lab reports for at least some of these experiments. Because of the lab component, these classes tend to run longer than other classes and are usually worth four credit hours, rather than three.
Mathematics are an integral component of advanced science classes, so students working toward an associate's of science have to meet higher-level math requirements than other majors do. An associate's of science major won't get away with taking algebra classes. At the minimum you'll have to complete Pre-Calculus I and II. Many associate's of science programs will then require you to move on to Calculus I and II.
Associate's of science degree programs usually require majors to take a computer or information technology class.
Even though you're a science major, you won't get out of taking at least a few humanities or arts classes over the next two years. Your two-year college will expect you to fulfill certain general education or core classes that are required of all students. These typically include classes in writing, public speaking and world history.
As in any associate's degree program, an associate's in science curriculum will require you to choose some elective credits. You can use your elective credits in almost any subject--it doesn't necessarily have to be science-related and could just be a course you're interested in taking for fun. However, if you're planning to transfer to a four-year university, you'll want to work closely with your adviser and select electives that will fulfill your target university's prerequisites.