Applied Professional Studies - Associate in Science
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This program map only provides one possible pathway for degree and/or certificate obtainment and is for reference only. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor to develop your individualized Student Education Plan.
The associate of science degree program in Applied Professional Studies prepares students for entry-level leadership positions in a variety of industries.Whether a recent high school graduate seeking a strong start to a professional journey or a working professional looking to enhance skills and broaden career prospects, the Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree in Applied Professional Studies is designed to empower students with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the ever-evolving world of work. Courses also provide a foundation for the upper division courses in baccalaureate degree programs. This program is tailored to meet the demands of today's dynamic job market, where adaptability, critical thinking, and practical expertise are highly valued. Students will recall and apply significant business and industry principles, produce work-based learning projects, and demonstrate the ability to follow oral and written instructions.
The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway. It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.
Effective Communication Skills:Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in written, verbal, and digital formats.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:Apply critical thinking skills to identify, analyze, and solve complex problems in professional settings.
Collaboration and Teamwork:Exhibit the capacity to work collaboratively in diverse teams.
Ethical and Professional Behavior:Recognize and apply ethical principles and professional standards.
Adaptability and Innovation:Adapt to changing circumstances, emerging technologies, and evolving industry trends.
Practical Application of Knowledge:Apply theoretical concepts and practical skills acquired during the program to real-world scenarios.
Program Map
Fall Year 1
The focus of this course is to provide the students with computer concepts and management information systems concepts as used with business computing. Additionally, the course covers changes in technology that affect how computers are used in business. The course includes hands-on experience using software applications such as Internet browsers, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software. Learn the fundamentals latest version of Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint,
- Advisories: CBOT 100
- Advisories: CBIS 301
- Category 4B: Communication and Analytical Thinking
In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research.
Students will prepare and write a research paper. The course is not open to students who received credit for ENGL 101.
- Category 1A: English Composition
- 1A - English Composition
This is a survey of the history of African Americans from their origins in Africa to the present covering the political, cultural, social, and economic experiences of African Americans. Students will encounter the social, economic, and legal institutions which characterized being black in the United States at various periods in the nation's history. Topics include African civilization, slavery, the Diaspora, abolition, reconstruction, segregation, Harlem Renaissance, Civil Rights Movement, African Americans in politics, and race in Modern America. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for HIST 121.
- D3 - Ethnic Studies
- D6 - History
- Category 2B: American History/Government
English 112 is designed to provide additional support and practice in academic skills and strategies needed to analyze college-level texts and to write college-level essays. Students are required to enroll in the linked co-requisite English 101 course to take English 112. Students cannot drop English 112 and remain in the ENGL C1000 course.
- Corequisite: ENGL C1000
Spring Year 1
- Advisories: BUS 302
This course is an introduction to statistical thinking and processes, including methods and concepts for discovery and decision-making using data. Topics include descriptive statistics; probability and sampling distributions; statistical inference; correlation and linear regression; analysis of variance, chi-squared, and t-tests; and application of technology for statistical analysis including the interpretation of the relevance of the statistical findings. Students apply methods and processes to applications using data from a broad range of disciplines. The course is not open to students who received credit for MATH 123 or STAT C1000E.
- Category 1B: Oral Communication and Critical Thinking
- 2A - Math
This course covers theory, research, and application of ethical one-to-one communication practices in various and diverse interpersonal relationships in personal, professional, and social situations.
This course is not open to students who have received credit for SPCH 103 or COMM 103.
Designed to assist individuals and/or those working with individuals to analyze and direct their financial affairs. Elements and concepts of financial planning and decision making in the areas of budgeting, taxes, borrowing, money management, consuming, insurance, investments, retirement, and estate planning will be analyzed with an emphasis on application to changing family needs. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for Business 130 or Family and Consumer Sciences 130.
This course provides a vibrant and detailed view of the important subjects of food behaviors and eating disorders. It examines the nutritional, psychological, and physiological factors which lead to healthy and unhealthy weight management strategies. Emphasis is placed on understanding and applying basic nutrition principles in daily life. As a vital part of the learning experience, students are invited to participate in assessing their own eating and physical activity behaviors. A series of interactive, practical activities will guide students through the processes of planning, implementing, evaluating and maintaining healthful nutrition and lifestyle strategies. Students will learn techniques for applying these skills in diverse counseling situations. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for FCS 112.
An intersectional and interdisciplinary approach to understanding success in college for Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x students. This course will explore factors which contribute to a successful experience in higher education for Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x students. An examination of the cultural and educational experiences of the Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x communities in the United States. Emphasis on understanding the historical background of Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x students in relation to current educational conditions and trends which impact student success.
This course provides an introductory overview of human sexuality from biological, psychological, cultural, and social perspectives within the United States and across diverse cultures. Topics include sexual development across the lifespan, relationships, communication, sexual orientation, gender identity, and variations in sexual behavior. Emphasis is placed on sexual health, including reproductive health, contraception, and sexually transmitted infections, as well as contemporary issues such as consent, ethics, and the impact of media and culture. Students are encouraged to reflect on their own values and attitudes while developing respect for diverse expressions of sexuality.
This course provides an overview of major theories of personality, including psychodynamic, trait, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and social learning perspectives. Emphasis is placed on evaluating personality assessment methods, cultural and ethical considerations, and applications of personality theories to self-understanding, relationships, and contemporary issues in psychological functioning.
This course explores human development from conception to death, including biological, cognitive, and psychosocial changes across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on theoretical perspectives, research methods, and the application of developmental principles to real-world issues such as education, health, and aging in diverse cultural contexts.
This course examines laws, regulations, standards, policies, procedures, and best practices related to health, safety, and nutrition in care and education settings for children birth through middle childhood. Includes the teacher’s role in prevention strategies, nutrition and meal planning, integrating health safety and nutrition experiences into daily routines, and overall risk management.
An overview of basic nutrition which emphasizes the application of nutrition science to consumer choices for improved health, fitness, and disease prevention. Individuals will assess their own diet quality and will learn to select diets appropriate to their individual lifestyles, inherited health risks, tastes, and needs at all stages of the life cycle. The course examines current controversies and claims to distinguish fact from fallacy and assists in adapting research on diet and health to individual needs. The course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for FCS 109.
Students will learn and synthesize information concerning the impact of the social determinants of health, including education, socioeconomic status, race, sexual orientation, disability and gender. Students are provided with a broad foundation of knowledge dealing with such social determinants in mental health, stress management, fitness, diet and weight control, prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, drugs and alcohol, first aid, cancer prevention and control, and the scope of, and access to community health services.
Assists students in considering individual development with the goal of increasing knowledge of self and others within the college. Topics include self-knowledge and assessment, learning to learn, and making the best use of college resources. This course is not open to students who have received credit for LS 101.
This course examines laws, regulations, standards, policies, procedures, and best practices related to health, safety, and nutrition in care and education settings for children birth through middle childhood. Includes the teacher’s role in prevention strategies, nutrition and meal planning, integrating health safety and nutrition experiences into daily routines, and overall risk management.
An introduction to environmental and occupational laws, regulations, and methods, leading to the practical aspects of protecting the environment, maintaining the health and safety of individuals in the workplace while assuring sustainability. The course examines systematic approaches to preventing or reducing risks of harm through gathering information and drawing conclusions based on measurable evidence or data. Students are encouraged to concurrently enroll in ENVT 111.
An overview of basic nutrition which emphasizes the application of nutrition science to consumer choices for improved health, fitness, and disease prevention. Individuals will assess their own diet quality and will learn to select diets appropriate to their individual lifestyles, inherited health risks, tastes, and needs at all stages of the life cycle. The course examines current controversies and claims to distinguish fact from fallacy and assists in adapting research on diet and health to individual needs. The course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for FCS 109.
Students will learn and synthesize information concerning the impact of the social determinants of health, including education, socioeconomic status, race, sexual orientation, disability and gender. Students are provided with a broad foundation of knowledge dealing with such social determinants in mental health, stress management, fitness, diet and weight control, prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, drugs and alcohol, first aid, cancer prevention and control, and the scope of, and access to community health services.
Assists students in considering individual development with the goal of increasing knowledge of self and others within the college. Topics include self-knowledge and assessment, learning to learn, and making the best use of college resources. This course is not open to students who have received credit for LS 101.
Summer Year 2
- Advisories: ENGL 514
Fall Year 2
An introduction to basic economic analysis and institutions. Macroeconomic analysis of income, employment, price level, and international trade. Microeconomic analysis of demand, production, competitive and noncompetitive product markets, and factor markets. Emphasis is placed on the applications of economic theory in the business environment. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ECON 121. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON C2001.
An introduction to basic economic analysis and institutions. Macroeconomic analysis of income, employment, price level, and international trade. Microeconomic analysis of demand, production, competitive and noncompetitive product markets, and factor markets. Emphasis is placed on the applications of economic theory in the business environment. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for BUS 121. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON 102.
An introduction to international economic issues. Explores why countries trade and addresses the consequences of trade restrictions. Alternative exchange rate systems, factors that cause exchange-rate fluctuations, and the determinants of a country's balance of trade are covered. Other topics include the politics of trade policy, the impact of trade on the job market, the role of international institutions in the global economy, financial crises, global environmental issues, and international debt problems. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for Economics 141 or Global Studies 141. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON C2001, or ECON 121 or BUS 121.
The course will cover the basics of wine business for commercial wine production, sales, marketing, logistics, compliance and administration. The class combines short lecture and hands-on experience to gain practice with, and examine the limitations of, each analysis. The student will work in small groups analyzing regional wine industries. This course is not open to students who have received credit for AG 114.
- Advisories: READ 110
- Advisories: ENGL C1000
- 3A - Arts
- C1 - Arts (Art, Dance, Music, Theater)
- Category 3: Humanities
An introduction to the concepts of biology. Designed for majors in fields other than biological science, the course investigates the nature of science, cells, genetics, evolution, ecology, and biodiversity. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab: 3 hours weekly.
- Category 1: Natural Sciences
In this course, students learn and apply foundational rhetorical theories and techniques of public speaking in a multicultural democratic society. Students discover, develop, and critically analyze ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, delivery to a live audience and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches.
The course is not open to students who received credit for SPCH 101 or COMM 101. Per CalGETC requirements, this course is taught in English.
- Category 1B: Oral Communication and Critical Thinking
- 1C - Oral Communication (CSU only)
Origins, social organization, geographic and political histories of Native Americans in California, and the effects of colonialism and settler colonialism. Exploration of the evolving relationship of Indigenous peoples and nations with settler colonial societies. Course surveys California Indigenous peoples,. selected tribal community histories, federal and state Indian policies, and California Indigenous history. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ANTH 107.
An introduction to basic economic analysis and institutions. Macroeconomic analysis of income, employment, price level, and international trade. Microeconomic analysis of demand, production, competitive and noncompetitive product markets, and factor markets. Emphasis is placed on the applications of economic theory in the business environment. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ECON 121. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON C2001.
An introduction to international economic issues. Explores why countries trade and addresses the consequences of trade restrictions. Alternative exchange rate systems, factors that cause exchange-rate fluctuations, and the determinants of a country's balance of trade are covered. Other topics include the politics of trade policy, the impact of trade on the job market, the role of international institutions in the global economy, financial crises, global environmental issues, and international debt problems. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for Economics 141 or Global Studies 141. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON C2001, or ECON 121 or BUS 121.
Students examine the progression of development in the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains and identify developmental milestones for children from conception through adolescence. Emphasis is on interactions between biological processes, environmental, and cultural factors. Students may engage in various methods of observing children's development to evaluate individual differences and analyze development characteristics at various stages according to developmental theories.
This course provides a foundational introduction to communication studies. Students will explore key communication theories, effective public speaking techniques—both informative and persuasive— and the principles of rhetoric. The course equips students to articulate ideas clearly across diverse contexts and audiences. Students will critically evaluate historical and contemporary speeches while practicing ethical communication to enhance awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Per CalGETC standards, this course is taught in English.
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of intercultural communication within the context of the social and behavioral sciences. The focus is on how human behavior, societal structures, and communication are shaped by culture, perception, and identity. Through theoretical frameworks and empirical research, students will critically examine communication dynamics across diverse cultural groups, assess the socio-psychological impacts of culture on communication and analyze the historical and contemporary factors influencing intercultural relations. This course is not open to students who have received credit for SPCH 110.
This course covers theory, research, and application of ethical one-to-one communication practices in various and diverse interpersonal relationships in personal, professional, and social situations.
This course is not open to students who have received credit for SPCH 103 or COMM 103.
An introduction to basic economic analysis and institutions. Macroeconomic analysis of income, employment, price level, and international trade. Microeconomic analysis of demand, production, competitive and noncompetitive product markets, and factor markets. Emphasis is placed on the applications of economic theory in the business environment. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for BUS 121. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON 102.
An introductory course using microeconomic models to understand individual decisions by consumers and firms, market outcomes including market failure, elasticity, market structures, labor markets, inequality, and the impact of government policies.
This course is not open to students who have already successfully taken ECON 102 or ECON C2001 and may be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON C2002/ECON 121/BUS 121.
An introductory course using models of the domestic and international economy to understand national income, unemployment, inflation, economic growth, inequality, the financial system, and monetary, fiscal, and other economic policies.
This course is not open to students who have already successfully taken ECON 101 or ECON C2002 and may be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON C2002/ECON 121/BUS 121.
The processes of socialization focusing on the interrelationship of family, school, and community. Examines the influence of multiple societal contexts. Explores the role of collaboration between family, community, and schools in supporting children’s development, birth through adolescence.
Using sociological and interdisciplinary approaches, this course introduces students to major concepts, theories, processes, and events in the study of racial and ethnic groups. It focuses on the historical and contemporary experiences of Native Americans, Latino/a/x and Chicano/a Americans, African Americans, and Asian Americans as a way of exploring ideas such as individual and systemic racisms, colonialism and decolonization, racial/ethnic stratification, marginalization, white privilege, and intersectionality. It also explores the ways in which these groups have resisted, adapted, and sometimes thrived in ways that have made significant and enduring contributions to our society. More broadly, the course also investigates the processes and circumstances that have led to the construction of race and racial categories in the modern world States. Finally, the course aims to provide a foundation for students to engage in practices that challenge racism and racial inequality. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for SOC 120.
Origins, social organization, geographic and political histories of Native Americans in California, and the effects of colonialism and settler colonialism. Exploration of the evolving relationship of Indigenous peoples and nations with settler colonial societies. Course surveys California Indigenous peoples,. selected tribal community histories, federal and state Indian policies, and California Indigenous history. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ANTH 107.
A survey of the geography of California, including the physical environment, weather and climate, population and migration, industry and agriculture, and major cultural patterns. Themes will include: cultural diversity, economic and political trends, resource issues, and the human-environment interaction.
A study of the development of visual communication in art, graphic design, illustration and popular culture. Emphasis is on the role of graphic designers and illustrators, the impact and interpretation of graphic images, symbols, and typography used in informative and persuasive media. The course is designed for graphics majors who want to transfer and is a Humanities elective for general education requirements.
This course is a survey of current theoretical perspectives, research, and the application of techniques related to psychological factors in the field of sport. Subject areas include the history and foundations of sport psychology, theories of motivation, group dynamics, psychological theories of stress and arousal, the role of demographic characteristics (e.g., gender, race, and ethnicity), self-efficacy, attention, emotion, and leadership. Relevant current literature in the field may be used as supplemental material. The course is not open to students who are currently enrolled or have received credit for PE 128.
An intersectional and interdisciplinary approach to understanding success in college for Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x students. This course will explore factors which contribute to a successful experience in higher education for Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x students. An examination of the cultural and educational experiences of the Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x communities in the United States. Emphasis on understanding the historical background of Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x students in relation to current educational conditions and trends which impact student success.
Examination of psycho-social issues and the development of individual identities to advance learning in American diverse communities. Using race, culture and education as a frame of reference, issues of inequality and social justice are explored to discover their influence on personal development, learning, and agency.
This course is an introduction to the comparative analysis of contemporary governmental institutions, political processes and their environments. The survey includes current political institutions, citizen participation, political problems, politics, and policies within these systems.
This course provides an introductory overview of human sexuality from biological, psychological, cultural, and social perspectives within the United States and across diverse cultures. Topics include sexual development across the lifespan, relationships, communication, sexual orientation, gender identity, and variations in sexual behavior. Emphasis is placed on sexual health, including reproductive health, contraception, and sexually transmitted infections, as well as contemporary issues such as consent, ethics, and the impact of media and culture. Students are encouraged to reflect on their own values and attitudes while developing respect for diverse expressions of sexuality.
This course provides an overview of major theories of personality, including psychodynamic, trait, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and social learning perspectives. Emphasis is placed on evaluating personality assessment methods, cultural and ethical considerations, and applications of personality theories to self-understanding, relationships, and contemporary issues in psychological functioning.
This course examines physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development from conception through adolescence. Emphasis is placed on major theories of development, research methods, and the influence of family, culture, and environment. Applications include child observation, education, health, and contemporary issues related to child development.
This course explores human development from conception to death, including biological, cognitive, and psychosocial changes across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on theoretical perspectives, research methods, and the application of developmental principles to real-world issues such as education, health, and aging in diverse cultural contexts.
This course introduces the scientific study of psychopathology and atypical behavior, examining biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors in mental disorders. Students will learn classification and assessment methods, theoretical models, and treatment approaches, with attention to ethical and cultural issues in mental health.
This course examines how individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts. Topics include social cognition, attitudes, persuasion, conformity, group dynamics, prejudice, aggression, prosocial behavior, and interpersonal relationships, with applications to contemporary cultural and societal issues. This course meets the Social Science GE requirement.
This course is an introduction to psychology, which is the study of the mind and behavior. Students focus on theories and concepts of biological, cognitive, developmental, environmental, social, and cultural influences; their applications; and their research foundations. The course is not open to students who received credit for PSY 101.
Using sociological and interdisciplinary approaches, this course introduces students to major concepts, theories, processes, and events in the study or racial and ethnic groups. It focuses on the historical and contemporary experiences of Native Americans, Latino/a/x and Chicano/a Americans, African Americans, and Asian Americans as a way of exploring ideas such as individual and systemic racisms, colonialism and decolonization, racial/ethnic stratification, marginalization, white privilege, and intersectionality. It also explores the ways in which these groups have resisted, adapted, and sometimes thrived in ways that have made significant and enduring contributions to our society. More broadly, the course also investigates the processes and circumstances that have led to the construction of race and racial categories in the modern world. Finally, the course aims to provide a foundation for students to engage in practices that challenge racism and racial inequality. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ES 101.
This course introduces students to Sociology: the study of people, groups, and institutions that shape people’s lives. Through a mix of theory, research, and real-world examples, students explore key sociological concepts like culture, inequality, power, collective action, and social change. With content reflecting diverse histories and lived experiences, students make connections between their lives and the social forces that influence individual opportunities and choices. Students in this course will develop a critical lens that allows them to better understand and transform themselves and society.
Spring Year 2
An introduction to basic economic analysis and institutions. Macroeconomic analysis of income, employment, price level, and international trade. Microeconomic analysis of demand, production, competitive and noncompetitive product markets, and factor markets. Emphasis is placed on the applications of economic theory in the business environment. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ECON 121. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON C2001.
An introduction to basic economic analysis and institutions. Macroeconomic analysis of income, employment, price level, and international trade. Microeconomic analysis of demand, production, competitive and noncompetitive product markets, and factor markets. Emphasis is placed on the applications of economic theory in the business environment. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for BUS 121. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON 102.
An introduction to international economic issues. Explores why countries trade and addresses the consequences of trade restrictions. Alternative exchange rate systems, factors that cause exchange-rate fluctuations, and the determinants of a country's balance of trade are covered. Other topics include the politics of trade policy, the impact of trade on the job market, the role of international institutions in the global economy, financial crises, global environmental issues, and international debt problems. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for Economics 141 or Global Studies 141. May be taken prior to or concurrently with ECON 101 or ECON C2001, or ECON 121 or BUS 121.
The course will cover the basics of wine business for commercial wine production, sales, marketing, logistics, compliance and administration. The class combines short lecture and hands-on experience to gain practice with, and examine the limitations of, each analysis. The student will work in small groups analyzing regional wine industries. This course is not open to students who have received credit for AG 114.
- Advisories: ENGL C1000
- Category 1: Natural Sciences
- 3B - Humanities
- C2 - Humanities
- D6 - History
- Category 3: Humanities
- Category 3: Humanities
This course is an introduction to government and politics in the United States and California. Students examine the constitutions, structure, and operation of governing institutions, civil liberties and civil rights, political behaviors, political issues, and public policy using political science theory and methodology.
A study of American government at the national, state, and local levels. Governmental principles, institutions, and their historical development are examined. This course satisfies part of the history and government requirements for the California State Colleges and Universities, University of California, Allan Hancock College, and many private colleges. (F,S). The course is not open to students who received credit for POLS 103.
- Category 4B: American History/Government
- Political Science, Government & Legal Institutions