The Associate of Science (AS) degree is designed for students who intend to continue their education and obtain a baccalaureate degree. The program is the appropriate choice for students who will take upper division coursework in mathematics, biological sciences, and physical sciences. The degree program includes the Colorado Statewide Essential Learning Core and meets the lower division Essential Learning requirements at most public institutions in Colorado. A number of emphases are available within the Associate of Science degree. Students choosing one of these emphases will take courses in a discipline in addition to the Essential Learning core.