Polytechnic Campus   |    Polytechnic Campus A-Z
About the School of Applied Arts and Sciences

Mission and Vision of the School

 

The mission of the School of Applied Arts and Sciences is to

  • Provide excellent undergraduate and graduate degree programs in arts and humanities, social and behavioral sciences, health sciences, natural and physical sciences, and mathematics;
  • Provide a broad selection of courses in these areas to enrich the education of all Polytechnic students; and
  • Prepare students to be successful in careers, in further education, and in their personal and civic lives.

The primary focus of SAAS is to increase the inventory of courses and degree programs that are in high demand from students and employers. SAAS will ultimately increase ASU’s ability to accommodate the growing demand for the most popular arts and sciences programs and courses. Consistent with the Polytechnic theme, all SAAS programs emphasize the applied aspects of these disciplines, including applied research that addresses pertinent issues of the community and larger society. Programs emphasize polytechnic education rich in project oriented and problem based learning.

The faculty and staff of the School of Applied Arts and Sciences are dedicated to supporting students by providing services and assistance that allow them to get the most out of their educational experience.

 

History of the School

 

The School of Applied Arts and Sciences was established initially (1997) as East College, which served as the “incubator” for new programs at the Polytechnic campus. The new name symbolizes a sharper focus on serving ASU students as the arts and sciences school at the Polytechnic campus.

 

Course Offerings at the School

 

Courses for all ASU students: Each semester, the School of Applied Arts and Sciences offers a wide selection of popular lower and upper division ASU General Studies and general interest courses that students need for graduation. All are taught in small classes rather than in large lectures. Many are taught online, providing all ASU students with convenient access to popular courses. While designed primarily to support students majoring in Polytechnic degree programs, these courses are open to all ASU students who might find the times and location convenient. Students can choose to begin their college careers in the small campus environment of the Polytechnic campus as exploratory students and move forward on their General Studies requirements while searching for an ASU major that serves their personal and career objectives.

In a typical semester, the School of Applied Arts and Sciences offers courses in the following areas:

  • Anthropology
  • Art
  • Communication
  • Economics
  • English
  • History
  • Languages
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Philosophy
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Religious Studies
  • Sociology
  • Women's Studies