The science courses in this category examine the physical universe, its life forms, and its natural phenomena. These courses assist the student in developing an appreciation of the scientific method and encourage an understanding of the relationships between science and other human activities. The mathematics courses encourage the understanding of mathematical concepts through the development of quantitative reasoning skills. This area of emphasis provides students with lower-division preparation for a variety of majors within the scientific disciplines, including astronomy, biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as preparation for mathematics majors. Additionally, students may prepare for nursing, kinesiology, public health, and other health science majors. Many of the courses will assist students in prerequisite preparation for graduate programs within the health sciences. A point system using multi-criteria approved by the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office is used to accept students into the RN program. Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to develop communication, critical thinking, and intellectual skills that effectively prepare him/her for lifelong learning and for advanced study in a wide range of majors at the university level.