The Associate of Science with an emphasis in engineering is designed for students who intend to transfer and earn a Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university, majoring in one of the mainstream disciplines of chemical, civil, computer, electrical or mechanical engineering. The curriculum has been specifically designed to meet most of the lower-division requirements for mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering degree programs at Oregon State University and Portland State University. With minor modifications, the curriculum can be adapted to satisfy most of the lower-division requirements for Computer and Chemical Engineering degree programs. Specific requirements vary depending upon the institution and the discipline, making it very important to work with an advisor and the most current curriculum revisions.

The Associate of Science degree is theoretically oriented, preparing students to use scientific methods for problem solving in practical engineering situations. There are other degrees and certificate programs at Southwestern oriented for students who want to enter the workforce immediately and/or want to verify that engineering is a suitable career selection.