Pathways
Choose from more than 30 pathways with the opportunity to transition into more than 250 bachelor’s degree majors at Georgia State.
The information shared here is intended to provide an overview of Georgia State University’s offerings. For official details on admissions requirements, tuition, courses and more please refer to the university catalogs.
Biology Pathway, A.S.
Perimeter College
What Is Biology? Biology is the science of life, from simple bacteria to complicated organisms. Biologists pursue a wide range of interests, among them researching diseases, exploring the evolution of organisms, modeling the complexity of ecosystems and examining the distribution of living organisms. Why Study Biology? Why do people get old and die? Why do seeds grow up, not down? How does injecting someone with a virus prevent them from catching it? Biologists learn the answers. Students of biology develop an understanding of how living things work and affect each other. They work to answer new questions about the natural world, whether it is about environmental impact or human health and well-being. Will building a new dam destroy a rare flower or increase populations of parasites? Where did the latest Salmonella outbreak originate? Why are some cancers resistant to chemotherapy? How do we make a vaccine for AIDS? Biologists perform research to discover answers to these questions, apply their research and teach the discoveries to a new generation. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.
What Is Biology?
Biology is the science of life, from simple bacteria to complicated organisms. Biologists pursue a wide range of interests, among them researching diseases, exploring the evolution of organisms, modeling the complexity of ecosystems and examining the distribution of living organisms.Why Study Biology?
Why do people get old and die? Why do seeds grow up, not down? How does injecting someone with a virus prevent them from catching it? Biologists learn the answers. Students of biology develop an understanding of how living things work and affect each other. They work to answer new questions about the natural world, whether it is about environmental impact or human health and well-being. Will building a new dam destroy a rare flower or increase populations of parasites? Where did the latest Salmonella outbreak originate? Why are some cancers resistant to chemotherapy? How do we make a vaccine for AIDS? Biologists perform research to discover answers to these questions, apply their research and teach the discoveries to a new generation. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.Chemistry Pathway, A.S.
What Is Chemistry? Chemistry is a physical science that helps us describe and explain our world. It is the study of matter, its properties, how and why substances combine or separate to form others and how substances interact with energy. Every material in existence, including the human body, is made of matter. Almost everything humans touch, taste or smell is made of chemicals. Chemistry is involved in daily and monumental tasks, from growing and cooking food to cleaning our homes and bodies to launching a space shuttle. Why Study Chemistry? An understanding of basic chemistry concepts is important in almost every profession. Chemistry opens doors to exciting careers in medical research, biological sciences, nanotechnology, earth and atmospheric sciences, energy, pharmacy, new materials discovery and forensics opportunities. Studying chemistry provides tools to understand the world around you: How does ozone protect us from the sun? What makes hot sauce hot? What causes snake venom to be poisonous? Just what are calories, and why do they make me gain weight? Chemical scientists know the answers to such questions. They educate us about our surroundings and make our lives safer and longer. At Georgia State Perimeter College, you can take Chemistry courses on all five campuses. Chemistry lecture courses (not laboratory courses) required for the Chemistry Pathway are also offered online. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.
What Is Chemistry?
Chemistry is a physical science that helps us describe and explain our world. It is the study of matter, its properties, how and why substances combine or separate to form others and how substances interact with energy. Every material in existence, including the human body, is made of matter. Almost everything humans touch, taste or smell is made of chemicals. Chemistry is involved in daily and monumental tasks, from growing and cooking food to cleaning our homes and bodies to launching a space shuttle.Why Study Chemistry?
An understanding of basic chemistry concepts is important in almost every profession. Chemistry opens doors to exciting careers in medical research, biological sciences, nanotechnology, earth and atmospheric sciences, energy, pharmacy, new materials discovery and forensics opportunities. Studying chemistry provides tools to understand the world around you: How does ozone protect us from the sun? What makes hot sauce hot? What causes snake venom to be poisonous? Just what are calories, and why do they make me gain weight? Chemical scientists know the answers to such questions. They educate us about our surroundings and make our lives safer and longer. At Georgia State Perimeter College, you can take Chemistry courses on all five campuses. Chemistry lecture courses (not laboratory courses) required for the Chemistry Pathway are also offered online. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.Computer Science Pathway, A.S.
Perimeter College
What Is Computer Science? Computer Science is the study of the theoretical foundations of information and computation and of practical techniques for their application and implementation in computer systems. Why Study Computer Science? Computers are a mainstay in today’s society. Whether at home, school, or in the workplace, people use technology. Understanding how computer systems work and learning how to make everyday tasks more efficient are valuable skills. Studying computer science introduces students to the exciting and ever-changing technological world. Perimeter College’s guided pathway in Computer Science teaches students the fundamentals of the science while also helping them to learn how to conceptualize, design and implement technology solutions. The pathway prepares students for careers in technology and for transfer to a four-year institution. Perimeter College computer science students can benefit from scholarships, stipends, undergraduate research and STEM initiatives, such as ENLISTEM, MESA, PSLSAMP and STEP. Routinely, Perimeter’s students win national conference awards for research projects, and the robotics team consistently places in the top three in the Association for Computing Machinery Southeast Regional Robotics Competition. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.
What Is Computer Science?
Computer Science is the study of the theoretical foundations of information and computation and of practical techniques for their application and implementation in computer systems.Why Study Computer Science?
Computers are a mainstay in today’s society. Whether at home, school, or in the workplace, people use technology. Understanding how computer systems work and learning how to make everyday tasks more efficient are valuable skills. Studying computer science introduces students to the exciting and ever-changing technological world. Perimeter College’s guided pathway in Computer Science teaches students the fundamentals of the science while also helping them to learn how to conceptualize, design and implement technology solutions. The pathway prepares students for careers in technology and for transfer to a four-year institution. Perimeter College computer science students can benefit from scholarships, stipends, undergraduate research and STEM initiatives, such as ENLISTEM, MESA, PSLSAMP and STEP. Routinely, Perimeter’s students win national conference awards for research projects, and the robotics team consistently places in the top three in the Association for Computing Machinery Southeast Regional Robotics Competition. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.Engineering Pathway, A.S.
Perimeter College
What Is Engineering? Engineering is the creative application of scientific principles to the design, development, construction or operation of structures, machines, apparatus, manufacturing processes or works, using them singly or in combination. Engineering also entails forecasting their behavior under specific operating conditions. Why Study Engineering? Engineering transforms scientific discoveries into products that improve the way the world works and make our lives safer, healthier and more productive. Engineering is an attractive career option for those who enjoy building or repairing items or designing new products, games or tools. Industry demand is high, with job prospects in branches of engineering continuing to grow. Civil, environmental, biomedical and software specialties are leading the pack. An additional draw is reflected in surveys that consistently indicate engineers enjoy high levels of job satisfaction. Perimeter College provides a strong foundation for students wanting to pursue engineering and the college’s Regents Engineering Transfer Program paves the way for its students to continue their studies at respected universities. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.
What Is Engineering?
Engineering is the creative application of scientific principles to the design, development, construction or operation of structures, machines, apparatus, manufacturing processes or works, using them singly or in combination. Engineering also entails forecasting their behavior under specific operating conditions.Why Study Engineering?
Engineering transforms scientific discoveries into products that improve the way the world works and make our lives safer, healthier and more productive. Engineering is an attractive career option for those who enjoy building or repairing items or designing new products, games or tools. Industry demand is high, with job prospects in branches of engineering continuing to grow. Civil, environmental, biomedical and software specialties are leading the pack. An additional draw is reflected in surveys that consistently indicate engineers enjoy high levels of job satisfaction. Perimeter College provides a strong foundation for students wanting to pursue engineering and the college’s Regents Engineering Transfer Program paves the way for its students to continue their studies at respected universities. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.Geology Pathway, A.S.
Perimeter College
What Is Geology? Geology is an earth science focused on the planet’s composition, structure, physical properties and history, as well as the processes that shape the Earth. Geologists help to locate and manage the earth’s natural resources, including fossil fuels, metals, gemstones and a variety of minerals. Why Study Geology? Geology-based careers include protecting the environment, exploring for fossil fuels, monitoring earthquakes, mapping floods, controlling landslides, predicting volcanic eruptions and analyzing the evidence of climate change. To be successful, geologists should have an aptitude for science and math and a desire to better understand the planet. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.
What Is Geology?
Geology is an earth science focused on the planet’s composition, structure, physical properties and history, as well as the processes that shape the Earth. Geologists help to locate and manage the earth’s natural resources, including fossil fuels, metals, gemstones and a variety of minerals.Why Study Geology?
Geology-based careers include protecting the environment, exploring for fossil fuels, monitoring earthquakes, mapping floods, controlling landslides, predicting volcanic eruptions and analyzing the evidence of climate change. To be successful, geologists should have an aptitude for science and math and a desire to better understand the planet. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.Mathematics Pathway, A.S.
Perimeter College
What Is Mathematics? Mathematics is the science and study of numbers, shapes and spaces and how they apply to the universe in which we live. Mathematics examines operations, interrelations, combinations, generalizations, abstractions, configurations, structure, measurement and transformations. Why Study Mathematics? Mathematicians have the opportunity to make a lasting contribution to society by helping to solve problems that affect our daily lives. Weather forecasters, software programmers and ecologists apply mathematical principles every day in very different ways. Perimeter College prepares students to transfer to a four-year college and offers math clubs and initiatives such as STEM or MESA to help increase academic performance. Students can take advantage of opportunities for tutoring, scholarships and grants. There also are opportunities to compete in national tests sponsored by the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.
What Is Mathematics?
Mathematics is the science and study of numbers, shapes and spaces and how they apply to the universe in which we live. Mathematics examines operations, interrelations, combinations, generalizations, abstractions, configurations, structure, measurement and transformations.Why Study Mathematics?
Mathematicians have the opportunity to make a lasting contribution to society by helping to solve problems that affect our daily lives. Weather forecasters, software programmers and ecologists apply mathematical principles every day in very different ways. Perimeter College prepares students to transfer to a four-year college and offers math clubs and initiatives such as STEM or MESA to help increase academic performance. Students can take advantage of opportunities for tutoring, scholarships and grants. There also are opportunities to compete in national tests sponsored by the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.Physics Pathway, A.S.
What Is Physics? Physics is the exploration, identification and study of basic principles and laws governing motion, energy, structure and the intersection of matter. These include the unseen forces of gravity, electric and magnetic forces. Physics examines these laws and their influences on society and the world. Why study Physics? Physics helps you understand the world around you. Georgia State Perimeter College physics classes teach you how the laws of physics answer practical questions: What causes you to lose control of your car on a wet road? How does air pressure affect the bounce of a basketball? How do microwaves cook food? Why are the peanuts always near the bottom of the Cracker Jack box? Physicists use testing and research to develop technology and improvements for society, including alternate energy options, medical equipment such as the MRI and high-resolution telescopes such as the Hubble. At Perimeter College, you can take Physics courses on all five campuses. All Physics lecture courses (not laboratory courses) required for the Physics Pathway also are offered online. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.
What Is Physics?
Physics is the exploration, identification and study of basic principles and laws governing motion, energy, structure and the intersection of matter. These include the unseen forces of gravity, electric and magnetic forces. Physics examines these laws and their influences on society and the world.Why study Physics?
Physics helps you understand the world around you. Georgia State Perimeter College physics classes teach you how the laws of physics answer practical questions:- What causes you to lose control of your car on a wet road?
- How does air pressure affect the bounce of a basketball?
- How do microwaves cook food?
- Why are the peanuts always near the bottom of the Cracker Jack box?