Associate of science (AS) degree

You can begin working on your AS degree your first semester. We strongly suggest that you complete any developmental coursework within the first two semesters of starting college.

Yes. Our program is specifically designed with transfer students in mind. Most of our courses transfer seamlessly through the Ohio Transfer 36 (OT36) guarantee and/or Transfer Assurance Guide (TAG), ensuring your credits will be accepted at four-year institutions throughout Ohio.  

We offer a comprehensive range of second-year STEM courses that are well aligned with university requirements, including calculus-based or algebra-based physics, organic chemistry, calculus, differential equations, astronomy and forensic chemistry. This means you can complete upper-level coursework here and transition smoothly into your junior year at a four-year college or university, saving both time and money. 

We currently have established transfer agreements with The University of Akron, Kent State University and The Ohio State University for our AS general degree. 

Absolutely. Due to the easy transferability of our courses and our high academic standards, we’ve established a great relationship with the pharmacy program at the Northeast Ohio Medical University. We are currently working on agreements to establish a pathway for students to a Northeast Ohio Council on Higher Education partner school for pre-medicine.

• It’s a steppingstone to a bachelor’s degree. Complete nearly all your general education requirements and take first- and second-year courses in your field of interest before attending a four-year school. 
• Secondary degree. This is a great option for pre-health students. With only a few additional courses, you could graduate from Stark State with two associate degrees and can transition easily to a four-year school to earn a bachelor’s degree.

We offer multiple course format options to fit your schedule and learning preferences. Courses are available in 16-week traditional semester formats, 8-week accelerated formats (offered in the first 8-week, second 8-week and summer terms), and 5-week intensive formats in the summer only. This variety allows you to customize your pace and complete your degree on a timeline that works for you. 

Yes. Our program offers exceptional flexibility. You can pursue multiple associate degrees simultaneously by declaring your preferred major first, followed by secondary majors. Popular combinations include AS general with physics, AS general with chemistry, chemistry with pre-med, physics with pre-engineering, and physics with mathematics.  

This approach allows you to build a robust foundation across multiple STEM disciplines while maximizing your educational investment and career opportunities.

Stark State’s Science Learning Centers (SLC) have peer and bachelor’s level tutors ready to help students in most of our science courses. Free tutoring is offered in person and online. We also have other learning centers for math and writing. 

We have a caring Disability Support Services (DSS) office, ready to help you with any accommodation you may need – from extra time on an exam to a broken leg. 

Our faculty are always eager to help during scheduled office hours – both in person and online as well. Your advisor is an instructor in your field, which means they’re knowledgeable about your program.

Our science laboratories provide an outstanding learning environment with small class sizes, excellent facilities and exceptional instrumentation for a two-year college.  

You gain hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment and resources including Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), telescopes with imaging instrumentation, numerous digital sensors, advanced microscopy equipment and polarimeters.  

Our laboratory instruction and facilities ensure that you develop practical skills that are directly applicable to workplace settings and advanced academic programs.

No. Unlike other institutions, we don’t charge additional laboratory fees or extra costs for our science courses. Your tuition covers all laboratory materials, equipment usage and course resources, making our science programs not only academically excellent but also financially transparent and affordable.

We offer multiple pathways for undergraduate research experience.  

You can participate through our Honors Program, enroll in independent research courses (SCI) or pursue internship opportunities with external organizations.  

Research experience is invaluable if you plan to transfer to a four-year institution or enter competitive career fields. Our faculty are eager to mentor motivated students in meaningful projects.