12 units

Courses in this area explore the scope and major concepts of mathematics and/or scientific disciplines. In the sciences, the intent is to present the principles and concepts which form the foundations of living or non-living systems. The focus of all courses in Category B is on the presentation and evaluation of evidence and argument, the appreciation of use/misuse of data, and the organization of information in quantitative, technological, or other formal systems. Students are introduced to the principles and practices that underscore mathematical and scientific inquiry (logic, precision, hypothesis generation and evaluation, experimentation, and objectivity) and gain an understanding of the process by which new knowledge is created, organized, accessed, and synthesized. Students improve their reasoning skills (critical thinking, problem-solving, decision making, analysis, and synthesis), and apply information and technology to the understanding of complex and diverse problems in mathematics and the sciences. They become aware of the influence and significance of mathematics and the sciences in world civilization.

Students must take a minimum of one course in each of the subcategories. At least one course in B1 or B2 must include a laboratory component.

B-1 Physical Sciences-Chemistry, Physics, Geology, and Earth Sciences 
B-2 Life Sciences-Biology 
B-3 Mathematics - Mathematics and Applications 
B-4 Computers and Information Technology