Liberal Arts and Sciences

An Associate degree in the Liberal Arts and Sciences is expressly designed to prepare our graduates for successful transfer, progress in higher education, and careers in a rapidly evolving, global workforce.

To reinforce a solid general education that emphasizes communication skills, critical thinking, and complex problem-solving abilities, using pedagogies of equity, the Program offers two distinct tracks: Science and Math (LAS-SciM) and Social Sciences and Humanities (LAS-SSHU). Both tracks culminate in a robust Capstone experience, giving students the opportunity to apply academic knowledge to addressing contemporary issues.

Students pursuing the Science and Math track acquire a fundamental background in the life and physical sciences in preparation for smooth transfer to a baccalaureate program. Course-based undergraduate research and laboratory experiences are hallmarks of the Science and Math track – students participate in at least one every semester. Science graduates with sights on advanced studies in the medical sciences are well-positioned to pursue their aspirations.

Using approaches from a range of social sciences and humanities, the LAS-SSHU track invites students to deepen their engagement with academic while fostering their development as active citizens in a diverse, democratic society. A selection of courses on specialized topics, where students interact closely with expert faculty, impart the conceptual tools and varied skills required for excellence in further education and their chosen professions.

In support of the mission of Guttman Community College, the Science and Math track of the Liberal Arts and Sciences program aims to:

• Create an environment that supports student success through instructor and advisor accessibility, small class sizes, well-supported lab facilities, creative and innovative pedagogy, and student academic support;
• Provide multi-modal education in a technologically modern, sustainable, student-centered environment;
• Create an atmosphere that cultivates student literacy and life-long interest in science through curricular and co-curricular activities, projects, and opportunities for student research;
• Provide a clear path to obtaining an Associate degree for students of widely diverse age, gender identity, background, ethnicity, culture, and socioeconomic status;
• Cultivate students’ understanding and appreciation for evidence- and logic-based reasoning both as a tool for academic success and scientific inquiry and as a critical tool for responsible civic life;
• Teach leadership by example through active faculty participation in shared governance, community engagement, professional accountability, and sustainable operations; and
• Support each faculty member’s maintenance of disciplinary expertise by engaging in professional development, collaborative opportunities, and by supporting the growth of our peers.

The Liberal Arts and Sciences program is committed to developing self-reliant critical thinkers with the knowledge and skills in the humanities, social sciences, and physical sciences to meet the challenges of today’s society through the application of evidence-based approaches to complex social, cultural, and scientific issues.

To promote career readiness within the curriculum, the Program implements course design and experiences that promote and incorporate the National Association of College and Employers (NACE) Career Competencies:

• Critical Thinking/Problem Solving
• Oral/Written Communication
• Teamwork/Collaboration
• Digital Technology
• Leadership
• Professionalism/Work Ethic
• Career Management
• Global/Intercultural Fluency