In a natural sciences academic program, many branches of the field might be explored in depth with the goal of observing and learning about nature. Some of these branches may include astronomy, biology, physics, ecology and chemistry.

Oceania also known as Oceanica is a region centred on the islands of the tropical Pacific Ocean.[4] Opinions of what constitutes Oceania range from its three subregions of Melanesia,Micronesia, and Polynesia[5] to, more broadly, the entire insular region between Asia and the Americas, including Australasia and the Malay Archipelago.

Associate of Science degrees are similar to Associate of Arts degrees in that they are offered by community colleges and require general education classes. They differ in the fact that Associate of Science degrees require elective courses on specialized science subjects.