General Education Patterns

The awarding of an Associate Degree at Cerro Coso Community College is intended to represent more than an accumulation of units. It is intended to lead you through patterns of learning experiences designed to develop certain capabilities and insights. Among these are the ability to think and to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing, to use mathematics, to understand the modes of inquiry of the major disciplines, to be aware of other cultures and times, to achieve insights gained through experience in thinking about ethical problems, and to develop the capacity for self-understanding.

Central to an Associate Degree, general education reflects the conviction of Cerro Coso Community College that those who receive their degrees share certain basic principles, concepts, and methodologies both unique to and shared by the various disciplines. College-educated persons must be able to use this knowledge when evaluating and appreciating the physical environment, the culture, and the society in which they live. General education should lead to better self-understanding and involve students in actively examining values inherent in proposed solutions to major social problems.

In order to receive an AA, AS, AA-T, or AS-T, you must complete one of the general education patterns listed below that is an option for your major. Note that not every GE pattern is an option for every major. AA-Ts and AS-Ts cannot be completed with Option A. The particular GE options for each major are listed on the major's information page on the college website and in the catalog.

If you're planning to get an Associate Degree or transfer to a four-year institution, make an appointment with a counselor today to develop an educational plan that best meets your goals and needs.

Patterns