Liberal Arts AA Degree with Emphasis in Social and Behavioral Sciences
Program Overview
The Liberal Arts AA Degree with Emphasis in Social and Behavioral Sciences program at College of the Desert provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and perspectives of social and behavioral sciences. Through a diverse curriculum and innovative teaching methods, students develop critical thinking skills, enhance their understanding of human behavior, and prepare for careers in fields such as social work, counseling, and education. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and service learning, equipping graduates to address complex social issues and make a positive impact in their communities.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Liberal Arts AA Degree with Emphasis in Social and Behavioral Sciences program provides students with a strong foundation in the principles, theories, and perspectives of the various disciplines within the social and behavioral sciences.
Objectives:
The program aims to:
- Enhance students' understanding of themselves and others within a broader societal context.
- Develop critical thinking skills through the examination of human behavior and interactions.
- Provide a comprehensive overview of the social and behavioral sciences, enabling students to explore diverse perspectives and methodologies.
- Prepare students for further studies or careers in related fields.
Outline:
Content:
The program encompasses a wide range of subjects, including Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, Child Growth & Development, Criminal Justice, Social Justice Studies, Intercultural Communication, Principles of Economics, International Economics, Ethnic Studies, Geography, Global Studies, History, Mass Media, Political Theory, Psychology, Sociology, and Statistics.
Structure:
The program requires a total of 60 transferable units, including:
- Core Courses (37-39 units): Students must complete one of three curriculum patterns: CSU General Education, IGETC (Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum), or the COD General Education pattern (which includes a transferable Math/Quantitative Reasoning course).
- Area of Emphasis (18 units): Students must complete 18 units from a list of designated courses, with at least two courses from the same discipline.
Course Schedule:
The program is offered on a semester basis, with courses available in both traditional and online formats. The course schedule varies from semester to semester, so students should consult the College of the Desert catalog for the most up-to-date information.
Assessment:
Methods:
Students are assessed through various methods, including:
- Exams: Midterm and final exams are typically used to evaluate students' understanding of the course material.
- Quizzes: Quizzes may be given throughout the semester to assess students' progress and comprehension.
- Papers: Students may be required to write research papers or essays to demonstrate their analytical and writing skills.
- Presentations: Oral presentations may be used to evaluate students' ability to communicate their ideas effectively.
- Projects: Creative projects or group projects may be assigned to assess students' problem-solving and collaboration skills.
Criteria:
Grading criteria vary depending on the course and instructor, but common criteria include:
- Attendance and participation
- Completion of assignments
- Performance on exams and quizzes
- Quality of papers and presentations
Teaching:
Methods:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles, including:
- Lectures: Traditional lectures are used to introduce new concepts and provide an overview of the course material.
- Discussions: Classroom discussions encourage students to engage with the material, share their perspectives, and develop critical thinking skills.
- Group Work: Collaborative projects and assignments foster teamwork and enhance students' ability to work effectively in groups.
- Simulations: Simulations and role-playing exercises provide students with hands-on experience in applying social and behavioral science concepts.
- Case Studies: The analysis of real-life case studies allows students to explore complex social issues and develop problem-solving skills.
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. Faculty members are available to provide guidance, support, and mentorship to students.
Unique Approaches:
The program incorporates innovative and engaging approaches to teaching, such as:
- Project-Based Learning: Students work on real-world projects to apply their knowledge and develop practical skills.
- Service Learning: Students participate in community service activities to gain firsthand experience in addressing social issues.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Courses often draw connections between different disciplines, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of complex social phenomena.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The program prepares students for a wide range of careers in fields such as:
- Social Work
- Counseling
- Human Resources
- Education
- Government
- Non-profit Sector
- Research
- Public Policy
Opportunities:
Graduates of the program are well-positioned for entry-level positions in various organizations and agencies. They may also pursue advanced degrees in related fields to enhance their career opportunities.
Outcomes:
The program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to succeed in a diverse and rapidly changing society. Graduates are equipped to make informed decisions, engage in effective communication, and work collaboratively to address complex social issues.
