Science, AS, Online
Quick Facts
Credit Hours: 60 | Estimated Time to Completion: 4 years | Cost Per Credit Hour: $480.65 | Start Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Program Details
- Location
- Wayne Campus, Akron Campus
- Level
- undergraduate
- Degree/Program Type
- Associate of Science / major
- Format
- online
- Course Info
- Course Sequence
- College
- Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences (BCAS)
- School/Department
- Interdisciplinary
Program Contact
- Dr. Kathryn L. Cerrone
-
Professor
330-972-8809
Program Overview
The University of Akron Online offers an Associate of Science (AS) for students seeking a strong foundation in science, mathematics, and STEM disciplines. Whether you're preparing for a bachelor's degree, advancing your career, or expanding your knowledge of science and mathematics, this interdisciplinary program helps you take the next step.
The 100% online curriculum emphasizes mathematics, natural sciences, scientific reasoning, and analytical thinking while strengthening communication, research, and creative problem-solving skills. Students develop the knowledge needed for science-based careers and future study while benefiting from the flexibility to customize their education through STEM-focused electives.
Designed as both a career-building credential and a transfer pathway, the Associate of Science prepares students for employment opportunities while creating a seamless transition into bachelor's degree programs in science, health sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, and related disciplines.
What You'll Learn
Through interdisciplinary coursework, you'll explore scientific concepts, strengthen quantitative reasoning, and develop the knowledge needed to understand how STEM disciplines shape the world around us.
Skills Gained
Critical thinking and analytical reasoning
Quantitative and qualitative analysis
Scientific inquiry and research
Written and verbal communication
Problem-solving and decision-making
Information literacy
Core Practice
Interpret scientific information and research
Apply mathematical reasoning to real-world challenges
Communicate ideas clearly and effectively
Evaluate evidence using analytical thinking
Build a strong academic foundation for STEM study
Key Topics
Mathematics and statistics
Natural sciences
Scientific reasoning
Research and composition
Communication
Humanities and social sciences
Career Outcomes
Whether you're entering the workforce or planning to continue your education, the Associate of Science provides a versatile starting point for a wide range of STEM pathways.
Job Titles
Laboratory assistant
Research assistant
Engineering technician
Environmental technician
Quality control technician
Computer support specialist
Manufacturing technician
Technical support specialist
Where You’ll Work
Research laboratories
Manufacturing organizations
Engineering firms
Health care organizations
Technology companies
Government agencies
Environmental organizations
Educational institutions
Career Advancement Pathways
Many students use the Associate of Science as a stepping stone to completing a bachelor's degree in science, health sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, and related disciplines. The STEM-focused curriculum also helps students strengthen the analytical and technical skills needed for long-term career growth.
Additional Program Information
Associate of Science Curriculum
The 60-credit-hour curriculum emphasizes mathematics, natural sciences, and scientific inquiry while incorporating communication, humanities, and social sciences to provide a well-rounded STEM education.
General Education Foundation
Build strong communication, mathematics, science, humanities, and social science skills through coursework designed to support academic success and professional growth. The curriculum develops critical thinking, qualitative and quantitative reasoning, and effective communication across a variety of disciplines.
→ View general education requirements
STEM Elective Pathway
Customize your degree through elective coursework that aligns with your academic interests and career goals. At least two-thirds of elective credits are completed in natural sciences, mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, or health sciences, allowing you to develop deeper expertise in STEM fields.
Bachelor's Pathway
Build on Your Momentum
The Associate of Science is designed to support a smooth transition into bachelor's degree programs in science, engineering, technology, health sciences, mathematics, and related disciplines.
Rankings
Recognized Among Top Online Universities
UAkron Online has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s top online universities, reflecting a strong commitment to quality and student success.
Scientific Inquiry
Learn Through Exploration
Develop scientific reasoning and quantitative thinking skills through coursework designed to help you investigate questions, evaluate evidence, and solve complex problems.
Admissions Information
Learn about admissions requirements, tuition, and financial aid opportunities as a student of the Associate of Science program.
To apply to the online Associate of Science degree, you’ll need to:
- Submit an undergraduate application
- Provide official academic transcripts
- Meet general university admission standards
Need help? An Enrollment Advisor can guide you through each step.
Tuition and Cost Considerations
- Tuition is charged on a per-credit-hour basis of $480.65
- Online students pay in-state tuition, with a $1 per credit hour out-of-state surcharge
→ View bachelor’s degree tuition estimates
→ View additional cost of attendance information
Students may be eligible for a range of financial support, including:
- FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Federal and state grants
- Student loans and work-study programs
- Institutional scholarships and merit-based awards
The University of Akron awards significant financial aid annually, with a large percentage of undergraduate students receiving some form of assistance.
→ Learn more about financial aid
Scholarships and Value
- Many scholarships require no separate application
- Aid packages may include multiple funding sources
- Programs like the Tuition Guarantee help provide cost predictability over four years (for eligible students)
→ Learn more about scholarships
Get Help
The Office of Student Financial Aid provides support throughout the process, including help with FAFSA, scholarships, and understanding your aid package.
To apply to the online Associate of Science degree, you’ll need to:
- Submit an undergraduate application
- Provide official academic transcripts
- Meet general university admission standards
Need help? An Enrollment Advisor can guide you through each step.
Tuition and Cost Considerations
- Tuition is charged on a per-credit-hour basis of $480.65
- Online students pay in-state tuition, with a $1 per credit hour out-of-state surcharge
→ View bachelor’s degree tuition estimates
→ View additional cost of attendance information
Students may be eligible for a range of financial support, including:
- FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Federal and state grants
- Student loans and work-study programs
- Institutional scholarships and merit-based awards
The University of Akron awards significant financial aid annually, with a large percentage of undergraduate students receiving some form of assistance.
→ Learn more about financial aid
Scholarships and Value
- Many scholarships require no separate application
- Aid packages may include multiple funding sources
- Programs like the Tuition Guarantee help provide cost predictability over four years (for eligible students)
→ Learn more about scholarships
Get Help
The Office of Student Financial Aid provides support throughout the process, including help with FAFSA, scholarships, and understanding your aid package.
Online Associate of Science Faculty
Learn from the same expert faculty who teach on campus while receiving personalized support throughout your degree program.
Online Associate of Science FAQs
An Associate of Science degree prepares students for entry-level opportunities across a variety of science, technology, health care, manufacturing, and research fields. Graduates may pursue positions in laboratory support, environmental services, engineering technology, technical support, and other STEM-related industries. The degree also provides a strong academic foundation for continued education. Career opportunities vary based on your elective coursework, experience, and future educational goals.
Salary potential varies based on occupation, experience, industry, and location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), civil engineering technologists and technicians earn a median annual salary of approximately $64,000, while mechanical engineering technologists and technicians earn approximately $68,000. The BLS also reports median annual salaries of approximately $61,000 for computer support specialists and approximately $47,000 for quality control inspectors. Earning potential generally increases with experience, specialization, and additional education.
Yes. The online Associate of Science program is designed to provide flexibility for students balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. Online coursework allows you to complete assignments on a schedule that fits your lifestyle while receiving the same quality education as on-campus students. Academic advisors are available to help you create a degree plan that supports your personal and professional goals.
Yes. Many students use the Associate of Science as a stepping stone toward bachelor's degrees in science, health sciences, engineering, technology, mathematics, and related disciplines. The program builds a strong STEM foundation while helping students complete many general education and prerequisite requirements. An academic advisor can help you identify the bachelor's pathway that best aligns with your goals.
For many students, an Associate of Science is an affordable and flexible way to build STEM knowledge while preparing for future career or educational opportunities. The program develops transferable skills in critical thinking, communication, quantitative reasoning, and scientific analysis that employers value across industries. Whether your goal is immediate employment or bachelor's degree completion, the degree provides a strong foundation for continued success.
Earn Your Associate of Science Online
Build the scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and STEM foundation to enter the workforce or continue toward a bachelor's degree.