I would eventually like to pursue a degree in a Nanotechnology related field (particularly interested in Molecular Manufacturing) ... I'm 35 and have never been in college, so I know I have a long way to go, so I have a couple questions... 1) Are there any 2 year online degrees that fulfill all the general prerequisite requirements for most 4 year Science degrees? 2) Are there any online science degrees? I haven't been able to find much in a quick search ... (Physics kinda stuff, not biological sciences) 3) Any good free online pre-college tests I can take to see what might be a good idea to brush up on before actually taking an entrance exam of some kind? Any advice you can give would be appreciated! Thanks, --ElmoTheDestroyer
In my experience which includes education and experience as a chemist, most physical science degrees (distingush from social or other science) require a general chemistry class with lab. I am not aware of how this could be effectively done entirely online. And if it could, I cannot imagine an employer or graduate school would favor the online version over someone with actual hands-on lab training. I'm not saying it can't be done; I'm just saying I am not aware of it and it doesn't strike me as a good idea. I'm sure many of the pre-requisites can be fulfilled through online learning only, but some pre-requisites will likely require time on campus, in the lab. This is only my opinion. I wish you all the best.
That's kinda what I figured... Any suggestions on an online course that might cover most/all the prerequisites? Thanks! --ElmoTheDestroyer
It might help us find courses for you if you tell us your state of residence. For example if you live in California there are low cost courses in both general education and some sciences.
Check with any of the threads with cookderosa, there are chem classes with labs that can be done online, or at least through distance learning. There is one on the front page or just send her a PM with the question about labs. Check this thread for information from her on chem. classes with lab or to send a PM to cookderosa: http://www.degreeinfo.com/general-distance-learning-discussions/42394-anatomy-biochem-classes.html
I'm in Washington State - Anacortes (Near Skagit Valley College) .. Thanks again for the tips/advice! --ElmoTheDestroyer
I'm not sure if you're interested in this program, but I know that Western Governor's University offers BA in Teaching Biology and other science classes. I'm not sure if your goal is to teach, but it surely has a Biology aspect.
I would think a BS Mechanical Engineering would fit your plans for a career in nanotechnology. The UND offers a ABET accredited degree Online & Distance Education Check out the requirements and many of the courses could be completed outside of UND though community college course and CLEP/DSST exams (there may be a limit as to the quantity of credits UND will except). Once you earn the BS Mech Eng you could follow up with a degree in materials science such as this one offered by CSU: CSU Online Plus - Materials Engineering | Mechanical Engineering | Master's Degree | Online & Distance - Colorado State University And if you do not find a job in nanotechnology these qualifications will be very useful in other areas.
To answer questions #1 and #2, the answer is yes! Ocean County Community College - Associate of Science Online