Students can focus on one of the following disciplines while pursuing an Associate in Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement (AA-DTA), Associate in Business - Direct Transfer Agreement/Major Ready Pathway (AA-DTA/MRP), or an Associate in Science - Transfer Track 1 (AS-T T1) or Track 2 (AS-T T2).
American Sign Language (ASL)
The goal of our ASL courses is to enable students to interact successfully with native signers and to relate language behavior to real-world situations. It is advisable to begin the ASL 100-level sequence Fall quarter. That will enable completion of a full-year program in ASL in fulfillment of the requirement at many four-year colleges or universities. Students pursuing a degree in American Sign Language should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers American Sign Language as a major.
Anthropology
Through its various sub-disciplines, anthropology provides a holistic approach to studying humans as cultural and biological animals. The anthropology courses taught at YVC allow students to develop a solid grounding in the discipline.
Students choosing to pursue a degree in Anthropology should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Anthropology as a major.
Art
The Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) regards art as an essential product of culture. Faculty are sensitive to the plurality of ideas and approaches inherent to its creation and strive to foster a critical awareness of process, content, and history. Instruction is in fundamental skills, while stressing the relevance and function of art regarding culture and the human experience.
Students considering the visual arts as a major or minor at a four-year transfer academy or university, or those pursuing a standard Associate in Arts degree with a visual arts emphasis, should consult with art faculty about planning their curriculum here at YVC.
Students pursuing a degree in Art should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers art as a major.
Art Appreciation is not a recommended course for students planning to transfer to an Art program.
Astronomy
Astronomy is the scientific study of the universe and Earth’s place within it. Astronomers study the planets and other bodies of our solar system (planetary science), stars and galaxies (astrophysics), and the origin and evolution of the universe itself (cosmology) using the principles of mathematics, physics, chemistry, geology, and biology.
At YVC, students may take ASTR& 100 for a general overview of the field, however this course takes a conceptual rather than mathematical approach to astronomy, and likely will not count toward an astronomy degree at a four-year institution. A lab course in planetary science, ASTR& 110, is offered that is tailored towards students planning to major in the field.
Students interested in a career in Astronomy or a related field should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts-Direct Transfer Agreement degree (AA-DTA) or the Associate in Science-Track 2 degree (AS-T T2), and then transfer to a college or university that offers astronomy or physics as a major. If choosing the AA-DTA option, it is important students meet with their advisor and pursue as much coursework as possible in mathematics and foundational sciences so they are ready to enter major-level coursework upon transferring.
Biology
The Biology program provides courses in introductory biology and fundamental courses preparing students for careers in health care professions and transfer to other institutions in the life sciences.
Students pursuing a degree in Biology should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) or an Associate in Science - Track 1 degree (AS-T T1) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Biology as a major.
Chemistry
Chemical substances are the very building blocks of life, and the study of chemistry provides insight into most scientific areas of study. Courses at YVC support study in Allied Health fields and provide a foundation for further study in chemistry.
Students pursuing a degree in Chemistry should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) or an Associate in Science - Track 1 degree (AS-T T1) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Chemistry as a major.
Chican@/x Studies
Note: The symbol “@” represents the education industry standard replacing “a/o”.
The Chican@/x Studies program focuses on the history, contributions, and contemporary experiences of people of predominantly Mexican heritage in the U.S. It is an interdisciplinary academic field which bridges traditional academic boundaries by drawing from areas of scholarly inquiry such as history, sociology, political science, arts and humanities, trans-national, and gender studies. Intensive community involvement and the training of future leaders are also emphasized.
Students pursuing a degree in the Social Sciences should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Chican@/x Studies as a major or minor.
Communications
Today’s methods of communicating information through speaking, print, and digital media require developing proficiency in the traditional skills of verbal, written, and visual presentations as well as exploring innovative techniques and new media.
Courses are designed for majors and for all wishing to enhance their personal and professional communication skills. In fact, employers consistently list communication ability among the most important qualities for hiring and success in advancement and promotion.
Students seeking a Communication Studies degree should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then, transfer to a college or university that offers Communication Studies as a major.
Drama
Drama courses are designed for theatre majors and non-majors alike. Courses focus on performance, production, and general appreciation of theatre as a major fine art and as a major channel of cultural communication.
Three main stage productions from a range of genres, including musicals, the classics, and experimental theatre, are prepared and performed each year. There are also opportunities for faculty-mentored, student-directed productions in our “black box” theatre.
The program meets the proposed accreditation standards of the American Theatre Association. The department is an active member of the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival and the Association for Theatre in Higher Education.
Students choosing to pursue a degree in Drama should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Drama as a major.
Economics
Economics is the study of how people and their social systems use scarce resources for the decision making process of production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. The study of economics has become relevant for understanding the financial, political, and social changes taking place daily in our modern world. Courses taught at YVC provide introductory-level exposure to economic principles and applications relevant for degree-seeking and transfer students and for members of business and the community.
Students pursuing a degree in Economics should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Economics as a major.
English
The mission of the English department is to help students develop the habits of writers, readers, and critical thinkers while furthering their interest in reading and writing as a way of learning about themselves and the world.
Students pursuing a degree in English should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers English as a major.
English Placement Policy
Students are placed in the English sequence through a self-directed assessment process. Information about the English department policy on retesting is available at the YVC Testing Center in the Deccio Higher Education Center. Once a student enters the composition sequence, they may not retake the self-directed assessment test.
Ethnic Studies
The Ethnic Studies program examines the social, political, and economic forces that have shaped the historic experience of diverse ethnic communities in the United States over the last 500+ years. An interdisciplinary, comparative and transnational approach to studying race relations and the intersectionality of race, gender, class, sexuality, and globalization utilized. The program also provides the opportunity for students to identify, question, and challenge unjust structures and systems and to identify strategies that nurture civic-minded and culturally informed students who strive to strengthen their communities.
Geography (Human/Physical)
Geography is an integrative discipline that unites the physical and social sciences in the study of people, places, and the environment. Major themes geographers explore are the interaction of human and natural environments, movement, and regions. Geography studies the where-and-why factors that shape our world and our lives in spatial terms.
Students pursuing a degree in Geography should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Geography as a major.
Geology
A basic group of Geology courses is offered so students may gain an understanding of the earth’s surfaces and interior and the processes which have changed earth through time. Courses are taught for students who wish to satisfy Natural Sciences requirements, to explore the field for future study, or to learn for personal enrichment.
Students pursuing a degree in Geology should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Geology as a major.
History
The historian analyzes human events and social/political organizations, attempting to establish an accurate perspective of the past. History provides us with an identity. It allows us to place current events into a perspective which gives us a sense of context and sequence. The patterns of civilizations can be discerned. History courses are taught at YVC by instructors known for their knowledge and provocative presentations. Courses may be taken out of sequence (e.g. HIST& 117 before HIST& 116 or HIST& 137 before HIST& 136 ).
Students pursuing a degree in History should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers History as a major.
Mathematics
All students needing to take mathematics at YVC must be evaluated through the YVC placement process before enrolling in a mathematics course.
Students pursuing a degree in Mathematics should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Mathematics as a major.
Music
The Department of Music provides students with academic courses and performing opportunities in vocal and instrumental music as well as opportunities for private vocal/instrumental lessons.
The YVC Concert Choir and Chamber Choir have traveled throughout the state and possess a tradition of fun, artistic quality, and a breadth of style. The YVC Jazz Ensemble focuses on a variety of styles including jazz, classical chamber music, salsa, tango, and rock.
The department offers courses ranging from Music Appreciation and History of Rock and Roll to Music Theory and Ear Training. These courses, along with courses for beginning piano, beginning guitar, and music fundamentals, are designed for students who have an interest in music. Both non-majors and majors are encouraged to participate in the performing ensembles.
Students pursuing a degree in Music should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Music as a major.
Nutrition
The Nutrition program emphasizes understanding the science of nutrients in humans. Nutrition courses will guide students through a study of food, its individual components, how food affects the human body, and food interactions. Our focus is to provide students with nutrition education that merges the science of nutrition with a broader view of wellness, community, and the environment. The Nutrition courses help prepare students for careers in nutrition, dietetics, and health care, and to transfer to other institutions to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Students pursuing a degree in Nutrition should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Nutrition as a major.
Philosophy
Course offerings in philosophy are intended for transfer students and for those wanting personal enrichment. Courses stress the cultivation of personal and interpersonal expression of ideas through critical and constructive reading, writing, listening, speaking, and observing. The program also organizes film and discussion events, conference attendance, participation in essay competitions, and community involvement.
Students pursuing a degree in Philosophy should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Philosophy as a major.
Photography
Photography classes at YVC prepare students to apply the techniques and aesthetics of contemporary photographic styles to their own work, present a portfolio of original photographic work, demonstrate awareness of global and cultural photographic standards and practices and engage in self-exploration and self-criticism during the image making process.
The department offers courses in Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Digital Photography, and History of Photography. These courses are designed for students who have an interest in learning about digital camera operation, the benefits of using different camera lenses, applying compositional strategies to images, image-editing software, digital printing techniques, and the evolution of the photographic process.
Students pursuing a degree in Photography should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA), and then transfer to a college or university that offers Photography as a major.
Physics
Physics is a fundamental science. All other sciences (and most technologies) find their roots in physics. Physics principles are logical and simple and yet far-reaching in their application. Course work is offered in either, general, or engineering physics. General Physics - I, II, III are algebra-based, intended for non-engineering, general science majors. These courses can satisfy a general or algebra-based physics requirement at a university. Engineering Physics - I, II, III are calculus-based, intended for the transfer student majoring in Physical Sciences. These courses can satisfy an engineering or calculus-based physics requirement at a university.
Students pursuing a degree in Physics should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) or Associate in Science - Track 2 degree (AS-T T2) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Physics as a major.
Political Science
Political Science is the study of government and public policy and of the political behavior of individuals and groups. Political Science uses both humanistic and scientific methods of analysis to examine individual and group behaviors and outcomes at the local, state, national, and international levels of politics (source: American Political Science Association). The Political Science program at YVC offers most of the fundamental courses in the discipline that prepare students for a declared major or minor in political science at a four-year college or university. Political Science courses at YVC also contribute toward general education requirements for a bachelor’s degree in any Liberal Arts discipline.
Students pursuing a degree in Political Science should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Political Science as a major.
Psychology
YVC offers a core of basic psychology courses which will provide a sound introduction to the discipline. Psychology is the science of human behavior and experience, and includes perspectives examining abnormal behavior, the biological bases of behavior, social interaction, and cognitive processes. These psychology courses are offered for general education, personal enrichment, and for students pursuing a career in Psychology or related fields. They serve as prerequisites for several campus programs.
Students pursuing a degree in Psychology should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Psychology as a major. It is important for students planning to major in Psychology to meet with a psychology instructor when selecting courses to meet the AA-DTA degree.
The social sciences are a collection of academic disciplines that use many methods to investigate human behavior and culture. These methods share a commitment to explanations derived from observable, measurable, and verifiable phenomena. Claims of knowledge require empirical evidence to be considered valid.
The social sciences generally are committed to employing knowledge for the improvement of the human condition. In American democracy, social scientists typically share a commitment to influencing public discussions and policies regarding individual liberty, social responsibility, and what constitutes a more just society.
Sociology
Sociology is the systematic analysis of the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists study social interaction, social structure, and social change. Contemporary American society is the focus but comparative and historical perspectives are included. The college offers basic courses that introduce the student to the fundamental principles, theories, and approaches of the discipline.
Students pursuing a degree in Sociology should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Sociology as a major.
Spanish
The goal of all our Spanish courses is to enable students to interact successfully with native speakers and to relate language behavior to real-world situations. We also hope to encourage and nurture a strong cultural pride and awareness of the Hispanic world. Our current course offerings range from SPAN 101 through SPAN 103 and Spanish for Heritage Speakers courses SPAN 231 through SPAN 233. Students can begin either sequence any quarter. That will enable completion of a full-year program in Spanish in fulfillment of the requirement at many four-year colleges or universities. Students pursuing a major or a minor in Spanish are strongly encouraged to consult with Spanish faculty about planning their course of study here at YVC.
Students choosing to pursue a degree in Spanish should follow a program leading to the Associate in Arts degree (AA-DTA) and then transfer to a college or university that offers Spanish as a major. All Spanish courses are offered at both campuses each academic year.
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