Program Overview
The STEM Transfer Foundation degree is a flexible transfer program designed for students pursuing science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) majors at four-year institutions. Students may choose from discipline-specific pathways such as Biology, Chemistry, Engineering Technology, Construction and Building Science, or Mathematics, or a general STEM Foundation option for broader or interdisciplinary interests. The STEM Transfer Foundation program offers rigorous math and science requirements and a balanced mix of lab sciences and liberal studies courses each semester.
Program Highlights
- The program includes core STEM subjects such as mathematics, physics, natural science, and introductory engineering principles.
- Participate in laboratory work and problem-solving exercises that build practical skills in STEM fields.
- Ideal for students planning to transfer to a four-year institution, with courses that align with the requirements of many STEM bachelor’s degree programs.
- Customize your studies to match your specific interests, whether in engineering technology, chemistry, biology, physics, construction and building science, or mathematics.
- Learn from faculty with real-world experience in STEM fields, offering valuable insights and mentorship throughout your studies.
Focus Your STEM Transfer Foundation Degree
The STEM Transfer Foundation pathways allow you to specialize on specific subjects within the degree program. Upon graduation, you will earn a STEM Transfer Foundation Associate in Arts degree with a focus on the pathway of your choosing. You can also follow a general STEM Foundation pathway without declaring a specific concentration.
Construction and Building Science Pathway >
Program Details
Expand AllCollapse AllView and print the required courses for the STEM Foundation program.
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
Courses provide students with a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Courses include:
- General Chemistry
- Lab Science and Technology Electives
- Mathematics Electives
For a full list of courses visit our Academic Catalog.
Graduates of the STEM Foundation program are well-equipped to pursue careers in STEM fields or continue their studies at four-year institutions. Some potential career paths include:
- Data Analyst
- Laboratory Technician
- Biotechnologist
- Engineering Technician
- Environmental Scientist
- Physics Technician
- Mathematics Specialist
This 60-credit program includes fully transferable general education foundation courses accepted by all Massachusetts public colleges and universities:
- 3 credits in mathematics (Precalculus I or higher)
- 7 credits in science
- 6 credits in composition
- 6 credits each in humanities and social science
- 9 credits in liberal arts
- Remaining credits in STEM electives for customization
The program's structure aligns closely with first- and second-year STEM bachelor’s curricula, ensuring students transfer with the right prerequisites, maintain balanced workloads, and minimize excess credits, helping them graduate on time.
Additionally, NSCC maintains transfer agreements with various four-year institutions, expanding opportunities for students to pursue bachelor's degrees in their chosen fields. Students are encouraged to consult with academic advisors to explore transfer agreements and plan their academic pathways accordingly.
Please note the data above reflects a degree in the listed program
Program Questions
stemfoundation@northshore.edu
978-762-4048
Contact Admissions
General Assistance
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Accreditation
North Shore Community College is an accredited public institute of higher education where all are welcome and each is challenged. NSCC is accredited by NECHE, the New England Commission of Higher Education.