Program Maps and Academic Pathways

Program Maps

Semester-by-semester program maps are available to guide students as they work toward their goals. These maps show the most efficient way for students to complete each degree and certificate plan. Students can access and print these maps from links in each degree and certificate plan in this catalog. Students should use program maps in collaboration with their advisors.

Academic and Career Pathways

SFCC divides all degrees and certificates into thirteen academic pathways:

• Automotive
• Business Administration
• Communications
• Computer Sciences
• Engineering
• Film
• Fine Arts
• Health Sciences
• Law and Social Sciences   
• Media Arts
• Teacher Education
• Trades and Sustainability

Each pathway features a group of exploratory courses that apply to many of the degrees and certificates in the pathway. Exploratory courses are good options for students interested in a pathway but unsure of their specific major. Information about each pathway is given below.

Students should work with their advisor and use SFCC’s Career Coach platform to help choose the best major or pathway.

​Automotive

In this pathway, you’ll gain hands-on skills related to vehicle mechanics and technology, from traditional internal combustion engines to emerging electric vehicle systems. It prepares you for automotive repair, diagnostics, and modern vehicle service management careers.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Automotive Technology, A.A.S.  ”(including the embedded certificates in Internal Combustion Technology, and Electric Vehicle)

The First Semesters

Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for the semester(s) listed, and those courses will apply to the degrees in this pathway.

Semester 1

Semester 2  

Business Administration

If you’re drawn to the corporate world or entrepreneurship, the Business Administration pathway provides a strong foundation in business principles such as accounting, finance, and management. This pathway will equip you for roles in financial services, business operations, or starting your venture.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Accounting, A.A.  
• Accounting, A.A.S.  
• Business Administration, A.A.  
• Business Administration, A.A.S.   

Exploratory Courses
Students can take courses from the list below to learn more about the skills they can develop and the projects they will complete in this pathway. 

• ACCT 2120  
• BUSA 1110  
• BFIN 2110   
• BLAW 2110   
• ECON 2120  

The First Semesters

Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1

Semester 2  

Communications

This pathway focuses on developing your language, creative, and interpersonal skills. It encompasses programs like American Sign Language, Creative Writing, and Liberal Arts, preparing you for media, public relations, writing, or multicultural communications careers.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• American Sign Language, A.A.  
• English-Creative Writing, A.A.  
• Liberal Arts, A.A.  
• Spanish Language, A.A.  

The First Semesters

Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1

Semester 2  

​Computer Sciences

Ideal for tech enthusiasts, the Computer Sciences pathway covers both theoretical and applied aspects of IT. Whether you choose computer science fundamentals or specialized areas like cybersecurity, you’ll be ready for programming, technical support, or software development roles.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Computer Science, A.S.  
• Computer and Information Technologies, A.A.S.  

Exploratory Courses
Students can take courses from the list below to learn more about the skills they can develop and the projects they will complete in this pathway. 

• CIST 1680  
• CIST 2881  
• CIST 2887  

The First Semesters
Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1

Semester 2  

Engineering

This pathway is all about applying technical know-how to solve real-world problems. Through engineering technologies and machining programs, you’ll gain a practical understanding of design, production, and advanced manufacturing techniques, paving the way for technical engineering or support roles.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Engineering Machining Technologies, A.A.S.  
• Engineering Technologies, A.A.S.  
• Pre-Engineering, A.S.  

The First Semesters
Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1

Semester 2  

Notes:

1. This course is only part of the AAS Engineering Technologies and AAS Engineering Machining Technologies programs. It is not part of the AS Pre-engineering program, so it would not count for this program if you later declared it. However, the skills gained will remain very useful.

Film

Dive into the world of storytelling and digital media in the Film pathway. Whether you choose Film and Digital Arts or a more technical route in film production and post-production, you’ll build skills essential for roles in cinematography, editing, and various aspects of film production.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Film and Digital Arts, A.A.  
• Film, A.A.S.  (including the embedded certificates in Digital Cinematography, Film Production, Independent Filmmaking, Post-Production, Audio Production, and Film Technician Training)

Exploratory Courses
Students can take courses from the list below to learn more about the skills they can develop and the projects they will complete in this pathway. 

• FDMA 1210  
• FDMA 1220  

The First Semesters
Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1

Semester 2  

Fine Arts

For those passionate about creativity and visual expression, the Fine Arts pathway offers immersive experiences in both arts and design. With options ranging from ceramics to painting and sculpture, you’ll explore the techniques needed for careers in creative industries, art galleries, or design studios.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Arts degrees: 

Exploratory Courses 
Students can take courses from the list below to learn more about the skills they can develop and the projects they will complete in this pathway. 

• ARTS 1220  
• ARTS 1250   
• ARTS 1415   

The First Semesters 
Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1 

 
Semester 2    

Health Sciences

Designed for those passionate about healthcare, this pathway offers robust training in various allied health fields-from nursing and medical assisting to respiratory care and paramedicine. It equips you with the skills to enter clinical settings and other health-related professions immediately.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Allied Health, A.A.S.  (including the embedded certificates in this program: Phlebotomy, Nutrition, Nursing Assistant, Community Health Worker, Emergency Medical Technician-Basic, Exercise Science)
• Dental Health, A.A.S.  
• Massage Therapy, A.A.S.  (including the Thai option)
• Medical Assisting, A.A.S.  (including the embedded certificates in this program: Phlebotomy and Community Health Worker)
• Nursing, A.A.S.  
• Paramedicine, A.A.S.  
• Respiratory Care, A.A.S.  

Exploratory Courses for Health Degree Programs
Students can take courses from the list below to learn more about the skills they can develop and the projects they will complete in degree programs in this pathway. 

• HLSC 1111  ²
• HLSC 1510  ³

The First Semester

Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree plan.  
 

Semester 1

Comment: If a student meets the prerequisites, it is recommended to take BIOL 1140/L Biology for Health Sciences, which applies to all programs (either as a requirement or as a pre-program requirement) in this pathway.

Notes:

1. A Humanities Elective is not part of the AAS Medical Assisting, AAS Nursing, or AAS Respiratory Care, so if the student declares these programs later, these credits will not count.
2. This course only applies to the AAS Allied Health (with all the embedded certificates) program. It does not apply to AAS Dental Health, AAS Massage Therapy (including Thai), AAS Medical Assisting, AAS Nursing, AAS Paramedicine, or AAS Respiratory Care.
3. It only applies to the AAS Allied Health (with all the embedded certificates) and the AAS Medical Assisting (with all the embedded certificates). It does not apply to AAS Dental Health, AAS Massage Therapy (including Thai), AAS Nursing, AAS Paramedicine, or AAS Respiratory Care.

Law and Social Sciences

This pathway is perfect for those interested in understanding society and its legal systems. With programs in criminal justice, human services, paralegal studies, and psychology, you can prepare for careers in law enforcement, social work, or legal support services.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Criminal Justice, A.A.  
• Criminal Justice, A.A.S.  
• Human Services, A.A.  
• Paralegal Studies, A.A.S.  
• Psychology, A.A.  

Exploratory Courses
Students can take courses from the list below to learn more about the skills they can develop and the projects they will complete in this pathway. 

• CJUS 1110  
• CJUS 1130  
• CJUS 1120  
• HMSV 1140  
• HMSV 1110  
• LEGL 111  
• LEGL 121  
• PSYC 1110  
• PSYC 1160   

The First Semesters

Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1

Semester 2  

Media Arts

This pathway merges creativity with technology, covering graphic design, photography, animation, and interactive design. It’s tailored for students who want to create visual content for digital platforms, work in multimedia production, or launch careers in advertising and digital marketing.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Graphic Design, A.A.  
• Media Arts, A.A.S.  (including the embedded certificates in 3D, Animation, and Game Design; Audio Production; and Graphic and Interactive Design) 

Exploratory Courses
Students can take courses from the list below to learn more about the skills they can develop and the projects they will complete in this pathway. 

• FDMA 1115  
• FDMA 1630  

The First Semesters

Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1

Semester 2  

Teacher Education

The Teacher Education pathway lays a solid groundwork for future educators. Whether focusing on classroom teaching or early childhood education, you’ll develop strategies and skills necessary for fostering learning and inspiring students in a variety of educational settings.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Arts degrees:

• Early Childhood Education, A.A.  
• Teacher Education, A.A.  

The First Semesters
Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1

Semester 2  

Trades and Sustainability

With a focus on practical, hands-on skills, this pathway prepares you for careers in industries like welding, controlled environment agriculture, culinary arts, water technologies, and construction. It emphasizes both technical expertise and sustainable practices in today’s evolving job market.

This pathway leads to these Associate of Applied Science degrees:

• Building Environmental Technology, A.A.S.  
• Controlled Environment Agriculture, A.A.S.  
• Culinary Arts, A.A.S.  
• Water Technologies, A.A.S.  
• Welding Technologies, A.A.S.  

Exploratory Courses
Students can take courses from the list below to learn more about the skills they can develop and the projects they will complete in this pathway. 

• BLDG 111  ¹
• HRMG 118  ²
• CULA 111  ²

Notes:

1. It only applies to the AAS Controlled Environment Agriculture, AAS Welding, AAS Water Technologies, and AAS Building Environmental Technology. It will not be valid if you declared later AAS Culinary Arts.
2. They only apply to the AAS Controlled Environment Agriculture and AAS Culinary Arts program. It will not be valid if you declare any other AAS in this Pathway later.

The First Semesters
Students who are undecided but interested in the degrees in this pathway can follow the plan below for their first semester or two. As soon as students choose a specific major, they should meet with their advisor and start following the program map for their specific degree or certificate plan.  

Semester 1