Fields of Study
A Field of Study is a structured set of courses designed to satisfy the lower-division requirements of a corresponding bachelor’s degree at Texas public universities.
Completing a Field of Study, along with the Texas Core Curriculum, helps ensure that your credits transfer directly into your intended major. Students who complete both the Core Curriculum and the Field of Study at CBC increase the likelihood of satisfying the full requirements of the first two years of a four-year degree. In many cases, this allows students to transfer to a Texas public university with junior-level standing.
Students are encouraged to meet with their CBC Pathways Navigator as soon as they select a transfer institution to ensure proper course alignment and a seamless transition.
Program Overview
The Associate of Arts Degree with Field of Study in Criminal Justice prepares students to transfer into a bachelor’s program at a four-year institution.
Completion of the Field of Study and CBC Core Curriculum leads to an Associate of Arts degree and is fully transferable to public four-year institutions in Texas.
Students are encouraged to speak with a transfer advisor as early as possible to ensure appropriate course selection and a seamless transition.
Students not pursuing a bachelor’s degree may also consider:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Forensic Science
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Law Enforcement
Potential Careers & Salary Range
- Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers: $40,720–$129,640
- First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers: $42,100–$100,000
- First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives: Starting at $54,070
Note: Additional education, certification, and experience may be required for certain positions.
Degree Plan
Freshman Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1300 – Learning Framework (My Cougar Course) (3)
- CRIJ 2313 – Correctional Systems & Practice (3)
- CRIJ 1301 – Introduction to Criminal Justice (3)
- ENGL 1301 – Composition I (3)
- HIST 1301 – United States History I (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- HIST 1302 – United States History II (3)
- ENGL 1302 – Composition II (AA Designator Course) (3)
- BCIS 1305 – Business Computer Applications (3)
- MATH 1442 – Elementary Statistics or other Core (020) (4)
- SPCH 1315 – Public Speaking (3)
Sophomore Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- PHIL 1301 – Introduction to Philosophy or other Core (040) (3)
- GOVT 2305 – Federal Government (3)
- BIOL 1306 / 1106 – General Biology (4)
- CRIJ 1310 – Fundamentals of Criminal Law (3)
- CRIJ 2328 – Police Systems & Practice (3)
Spring Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- PSYC 2301 – General Psychology (3)
- CRIJ 1306 – Court Systems & Practice (3)
- GEOL 1305 – Environmental Science (3)
- GOVT 2306 – Texas Government (3)
- Creative Arts Core (050) (3)
Program Overview
The Associate of Arts Degree with Field of Study in Education prepares students to transfer into a bachelor’s program at a four-year institution.
Completing the Education EC–6 Field of Study and the CBC Core Curriculum leads to an Associate of Arts degree and is fully transferable to public four-year institutions in Texas.
Students should speak with their Pathways Navigator or faculty advisor as early as possible—once they have selected a transfer university—to ensure the best course selection for transfer and a seamless transition.
Potential Careers & Salary Range
- Pre-School/Elementary Education Teacher: $46,000–$54,000
Note: Different levels of education and experience may be required to attain the careers listed above.
Degree Plan
Freshman Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1300 – Learning Framework (My Cougar Course) (3)
- TECA 1354 – Child Growth & Development (Field of Study) (3)
- MATH 1314 – College Algebra (3)
- ENGL 1301 – Composition I (3)
- HIST 1301 – United States History I (3)
Spring Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- HIST 1302 – United States History II (3)
- ENGL 1302 – Composition II (AA Designator Course) (3)
- SPCH 1321 – Business & Professional Communication (3)
- MATH 1350 – Math for Teachers I (Field of Study) (3)
- BCIS 1305 – Business Computer Applications (3)
Sophomore Year
Fall Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1301 – Introduction to the Teaching Profession (Field of Study) (3)
- GOVT 2305 – Federal Government (3)
- BIOL 1308 / 1108 – Biology for Non-Science Majors I (4)
- MATH 1351 – Math for Teachers II (Field of Study) (3)
- ART 1301 – Art Appreciation (3)
Spring Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- GOVT 2306 – Texas Government (3)
- EDUC 2301 – Introduction to Special Populations (Field of Study) (3)
- SPAN 2311 – Intermediate Spanish or other Core (040) (3)
- GEOL 1305 – Environmental Science (3)
- PSYC 2301 – General Psychology (3)
Program Overview
The Associate of Arts Degree with Field of Study in History prepares students to transfer into a bachelor’s program at a four-year institution.
Completion of this Field of Study and the CBC Core Curriculum leads to an Associate of Arts degree and is fully transferable to public four-year institutions in Texas.
Students should meet with a Success Coach each semester to ensure that course selections align with their intended bachelor’s program and transfer institution.
Career Pathways
Studying history prepares graduates for careers in diverse areas, including:
- Education
- Business Management
- Law
- Administration
- Community Service
- Research
Salary Information
Median salary starting at approximately $55,000 annually.
Note: Different levels of education and experience may be required to attain the careers listed above.
If you are interested in pursuing studies in History, visit the American Historical Association Career Center for additional information.
Degree Plan
Freshman Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1300 – Learning Framework (My Cougar Course) (3)
- BCIS 1305 – Business Computer Applications (3)
- HIST 1301 – United States History I (3)
- ENGL 1301 – Composition I (3)
- SPCH 1311 – Introduction to Speech Communication (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- HIST 1302 – United States History II (3)
- ENGL 1302 – Composition II (AA Designator Course) (3)
- HIST 2301 – Texas History (Field of Study) (3)
- MATH 1442 – Elementary Statistics or other Core (020) (4)
- Creative Arts Core (050) (3)
Sophomore Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- HIST 2327 – Mexican American History I (Field of Study) (3)
- GOVT 2305 – Federal Government (3)
- Life & Physical Science Core (030) (3)
- HIST 2321 – World Civilizations I (Field of Study) (3)
- PSYC 2314 – Human Growth & Development or other Core (080) (3)
Spring Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- Life & Physical Science Core (030) (3)
- GOVT 2306 – Texas Government (3)
- HIST 2328 – Mexican American History II (Field of Study) (3)
- HIST 2322 – World Civilizations II (Field of Study) (3)
- PHIL 1301 – Introduction to Philosophy or other Core (040) (3)
Program Overview
This preparatory program allows students to complete the foundational general education coursework required for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
Completion of this Field of Study and the CBC Core Curriculum leads to an Associate of Science degree and is fully transferable to public four-year institutions in Texas.
Students should speak with a CBC transfer advisor as early as possible after selecting a transfer university to ensure appropriate course selection and a seamless transition.
Students not pursuing a bachelor’s degree may also consider:
- Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Registered Nurse (RN)
- LVN–RN Bridge Program
Potential Careers
- Registered Nurse (BSN)
- Nurse Practitioner (Master’s or Doctoral Degree)
Projected Salary Range
$76,000–$120,000 annually
Note: Different levels of education and experience may be required to attain the careers listed above.
Degree Plan
Freshman Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1300 – Learning Framework (My Cougar Course) (3)
- BCIS 1305 – Business Computer Applications (3)
- BIOL 1322 – Nutrition & Diet Therapy (Field of Study) (3)
- ENGL 1301 – Composition I (3)
- PSYC 2301 – General Psychology (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- PSYC 2314 – Human Growth & Development (Field of Study) (3)
- ENGL 1302 – Composition II (3)
- CHEM 1105 / 1305 – Introductory Chemistry or CHEM 1111 / 1311 – General Chemistry (Field of Study) (4)
- MATH 1442 – Elementary Statistics (Field of Study) (4)
- Core Elective Aligned with Transfer (3)
Sophomore Year
Fall Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- BIOL 2101 / 2301 – Anatomy & Physiology I (AS Designator Course) (4)
- GOVT 2305 – Federal Government (3)
- HIST 1301 – United States History I (3)
- SPCH 1315 – Public Speaking (3)
- PHIL 2306 – Introduction to Ethics (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- BIOL 2102 / 2302 – Anatomy & Physiology II (Field of Study) (4)
- GOVT 2306 – Texas Government (3)
- HIST 1302 – United States History II (3)
- BIOL 2120 / 2320 – Microbiology for Non-Science Majors (Field of Study) (4)
- Creative Arts Core (050) (3)
Program Overview
In this field, students study concepts of ethics, justice, and democracy; explore systems of government and political behavior; and apply theory to current political events. Political Science is a versatile degree that can launch careers in politics and public policy, nonprofit leadership, business, media, or education.
With a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS)—each with slightly different course requirements—graduates may pursue entry-level administrative, communications, or analyst positions in the public sector, private business, or nonprofit organizations. Political Science is also one of the traditional majors for students planning to attend law school.
This preparatory program allows students to complete the general education and foundational coursework required for a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Completion of this Field of Study and the CBC Core Curriculum leads to an Associate of Arts degree and is fully transferable to public four-year institutions in Texas.
Students should speak with a transfer advisor as early as possible after selecting a transfer university to ensure appropriate course selection and a seamless transition.
Potential Careers & Salary Range
- Political Scientists: $122,220
- Diplomats: $90,000
- Budget Analysts: $76,540
- Legislative Assistants: $40,000
- Political Science Teacher/Lecturer: $61,000
- Attorney/Law: Average salary in Texas approximately $150,000 (varies by practice area)
Note: Different levels of education and experience may be required to attain the careers listed above.
Degree Plan
Freshman Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1300 – Learning Framework (My Cougar Course) (3)
- BCIS 1305 – Business Computer Applications (3)
- GOVT 2304 – Introduction to Political Science (Field of Study) (3)
- ENGL 1301 – Composition I (3)
- SPCH 1311 – Introduction to Speech Communication (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- HIST 1301 – United States History I (3)
- ENGL 1302 – Composition II (AA Designator Course) (3)
- GOVT 2305 – Federal Government (3)
- MATH 1442 – Elementary Statistics (Field of Study) (4)
- Creative Arts Core (050) (3)
Sophomore Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- HIST 1302 – United States History II (3)
- GOVT 2306 – Texas Government (3)
- Life & Physical Science Core (030) (3)
- ECON 2301 – Principles of Microeconomics (Field of Study) (3)
- PSYC 2301 – General Psychology (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- BIOL 1306 / 1106 – General Biology (4)
- ECON 2302 – Principles of Macroeconomics (3)
- GOVT 2311 – Mexican American Politics (Field of Study) (3)
- Core Elective Aligned with Transfer (3)
- PHIL 1301 – Introduction to Philosophy or other Core (040) (3)
Program Overview
Psychology is the scientific study of mental processes and behavior. The Associate of Arts Degree with Field of Study in Psychology prepares students to transfer into a bachelor’s program at a four-year institution.
Completion of this Field of Study and the CBC Core Curriculum leads to an Associate of Arts degree and is fully transferable to public four-year institutions in Texas.
Students should meet with a Success Coach each semester to ensure that selected courses align with their intended bachelor’s program and transfer institution.
Potential Careers & Salary Range
- Clinical & Counseling Psychologists: $42,760–$168,790
- Industrial–Organizational Psychologists: $72,490
- Psychology Teachers: $42,270
Note: Different levels of education and experience may be required to attain the careers listed above.
Degree Plan
Freshman Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1300 – Learning Framework (My Cougar Course) (3)
- SPCH 1315 – Public Speaking (3)
- PSYC 2301 – General Psychology (Field of Study) (3)
- ENGL 1301 – Composition I (3)
- HIST 1301 – United States History I (3)
Spring Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- HIST 1302 – United States History II (3)
- ENGL 1302 – Composition II (AA Designator Course) (3)
- BCIS 1305 – Business Computer Applications (3)
- MATH 1314 – College Algebra (3)
- PSYC 2314 – Human Growth & Development (Field of Study) (3)
Sophomore Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- PSYC 2317 – Statistical Methods in Psychology (Field of Study) (3)
- GOVT 2305 – Federal Government (3)
- BIOL 1322 – Nutrition & Diet Therapy (3)
- PSYC 2319 – Social Psychology (Cross-listed SOCI 2326) (Field of Study) (3)
- PHIL 1301 – Introduction to Philosophy or other Core (040) (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- GOVT 2306 – Texas Government (3)
- PSYC 2320 – Abnormal Psychology (Field of Study) (3)
- PSYC 2306 – Human Sexuality (Field of Study) (3)
- GEOL 1305 – Environmental Science (3)
- Creative Arts Core (050) (3)
Program Overview
Social Work students are compassionate, service-oriented individuals who develop the skills, knowledge, and professional values necessary to effectively serve people in need across a variety of community and social service settings.
This preparatory program allows students to complete the foundational general education coursework required for a Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW) degree.
Completion of this Field of Study and the CBC Core Curriculum leads to an Associate of Arts degree and is fully transferable to public four-year institutions in Texas.
Students should speak with a CBC transfer advisor as early as possible after selecting a transfer university to ensure appropriate course selection and a seamless transition.
Potential Careers & Salary Range
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers: $36,380–$81,920
- Healthcare Social Workers: $38,520–$87,830
- Marriage & Family Therapists: $36,840–$98,700
- Mental Health & Substance Abuse Social Workers: $34,630–$97,660
- Probation Officers & Correctional Treatment Specialists: $38,550–$101,080
Note: Different levels of education and experience may be required to attain the careers listed above.
Degree Plan
Freshman Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1300 – Learning Framework (My Cougar Course) (3)
- BCIS 1305 – Business Computer Applications (3)
- SOCW 2361 – Introduction to Social Work (Field of Study) (3)
- ENGL 1301 – Composition I (3)
- HIST 1301 – United States History I (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- HIST 1302 – United States History II (3)
- ENGL 1302 – Composition II (AA Designator Course) (3)
- SOCI 1301 – Introduction to Sociology (Field of Study) (3)
- MATH 1442 – Elementary Statistics or other Core (020) (4)
- SOCW 2362 – Social Welfare: Legislation, Programs & Services (Field of Study) (3)
Sophomore Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- SOCI 1306 – Social Problems (Field of Study) (3)
- GOVT 2305 – Federal Government (3)
- BIOL 1322 – Nutrition & Diet Therapy (3)
- SPCH 1311 – Introduction to Speech Communication (3)
- PHIL 1301 – Introduction to Philosophy or other Core (040) (3)
Spring Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- GOVT 2306 – Texas Government (3)
- SOCW 2389 – Academic Cooperative (Field of Study) (3)
- PSYC 2301 – General Psychology (3)
- GEOL 1305 – Environmental Science (3)
- Creative Arts Core (050) (3)
Program Overview
Sociology explores the complexities of human society, examining social institutions such as family, education, government, and culture. Students develop the ability to think critically, creatively, and collaboratively about social issues and community dynamics.
This preparatory program allows students to complete the foundational general education coursework required for a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Sociology.
Completion of this Field of Study and the CBC Core Curriculum leads to an Associate of Arts degree and is fully transferable to public four-year institutions in Texas.
Students should speak with a CBC transfer advisor as early as possible after selecting a transfer university to ensure appropriate course selection and a seamless transition.
Potential Careers & Salary Range
Sociology graduates pursue careers such as:
- Charity Worker: $43,875
- Family Support Worker: $41,066
- Government Officer: $60,000–$80,000
- Probation Officer: $47,252
- Social Science Researcher: $113,000
- Teacher/Lecturer: $51,000
Note: Different levels of education and experience may be required to attain the careers listed above.
Degree Plan
Freshman Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- EDUC 1300 – Learning Framework (My Cougar Course) (3)
- BCIS 1305 – Business Computer Applications (3)
- SOCI 1301 – Introduction to Sociology (Field of Study) (3)
- ENGL 1301 – Composition I (3)
- HIST 1301 – United States History I (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- HIST 1302 – United States History II (3)
- ENGL 1302 – Composition II (AA Designator Course) (3)
- GOVT 2305 – Federal Government (3)
- MATH 1442 – Elementary Statistics or other Core (020) (4)
- SOCI 1306 – Social Problems (Field of Study) (3)
Sophomore Year
Fall Semester (15 Credit Hours)
- SPCH 1311 – Introduction to Speech Communication or SPCH 1315 – Public Speaking (3)
- GOVT 2306 – Texas Government (3)
- GEOL 1305 – Environmental Science (3)
- SOCI 2301 – Marriage & Family (Field of Study) (3)
- Core Elective Aligned with Transfer (3)
Spring Semester (16 Credit Hours)
- BIOL 1106 / 1306 – General Biology (4)
- SOCI 2326 – Social Psychology (Cross-listed PSYC 2319) (Field of Study) (3)
- SOCI 2319 – Minority Studies (Field of Study) (3)
- ENGL 2322 – British Literature or other Core (040) (3)
- Creative Arts Core (050) (3)
If your intended Field of Study is not listed, your CBC Pathways Navigator can help you identify the right elective courses to align with your academic goals and transfer university requirements. Schedule an appointment to ensure your coursework stays aligned and your transfer process remains seamless.