2 TYPES OF ASSOCIATE DEGREES

Associate degrees typically require 60 credits.

1. Designed primarily to lead to immediate employment.

• A.A.S. Degree (Associate of Applied Science)

2. Designed primarily for transfer to a 4-year institution.
Students study 2 years at a community college, obtain an associate degree, and then continue studies at a 4-year institution.

‘Transfer Degrees’ or ‘2+2 Degrees’

• A.A. Degree (Associate of Arts) – the first half of a baccalaureate degree in the arts or sciences.
• A.A.T. Degree (Associate of Arts in Teaching) – the first half of a baccalaureate degree and teacher certification.
• A.S.E. Degree (Associate of Science in Engineering) – the first half of a baccalaureate degree in engineering.
• A.F.A Degree (Associate of Fine Arts) – the first half of a baccalaureate degree in professional arts or fine arts.

CERTIFICATES

• Require approximately 24 – 30 credits, equivalent to about 1 year of full-time study.
• Recognize successful completion of a sequence of courses focused on the development of specific technical skills.
• Document proficiency in a subject area, and can help with employment.

LETTERS OF RECOGNITION

• Require approximately 11 credits, equivalent to about 6 months of full-time study.
• Awarded after a student successfully completes course within a specific program area.
• Indicates the student demonstrates basic skills and knowledge required for immediate entry-level employment in a specific career field.