Oct 06, 2024  
2024 - 2025 Student Handbook 
    
2024 - 2025 Student Handbook

Diplomas, Degrees, and Certificates Offered in the Career/ Technical Career Programs


What is an AAS Degree?

The Associate in Applied Science Degree is designed as a two-year degree leading to skilled employment. Students must satisfy general education requirements and career program requirements. This degree is not intended to transfer, although some do. See your advisor for information.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree

To earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, you must complete the general educational and technical competency requirements of a two-year technical program with a GPA of 2.0 or better in your award major. These programs are designed to prepare you for skilled employment in your chosen area; they are not designed for transfer to a four-year college or university. AAS degree requirements include a minimum of 15 credit hours of general education, including one course each in Communications, Humanities or Social Sciences, and Math or Science. AAS degrees vary by program in the number of credit hours required for completion and range between 62-86 total credits. All course work must be at the 100 level or above.

What is a Diploma?

You receive a diploma if you have successfully completed an approved program with less than 62 but more than 31 semester hours of credit. These programs are designed to prepare an individual for an entry level employment position in selected occupational fields.

Diploma Programs

Diplomas are awarded if you successfully complete a program with fewer than 49 but more than 31 credit hours, and maintain a GPA of 2.0 or better in your award major. These programs will prepare you for entry-level employment in a specific field. Diploma programs emphasize technical skills and related general education courses that will give you the skills necessary to succeed in the working world. Minimum general education requirements for a diploma include three credit hours in Communications, Social Sciences, Humanities, Math or Science. All course work must be at the 100 level or above. 

What is a Certificate of Completion?

A Certificate of Completion is awarded to students who have successfully completed an approved program of study with less than 32 semester hours of credit.

Certificate Programs

When you successfully complete a designated program with fewer than 32 credit hours with a GPA of 2.0 or better in your award major, you will earn a certificate. The certificate means you have attained the minimum competencies in your chosen area. All course work must be at the 100 level or above.