The following descriptions of the three degree and certificate programs offered by the College are for comparative purposes only. In planning a program of study, students should be guided by the academic programs presented in the section. "Programs of Study" and select their courses in consultation with an advisor.

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS (AA)

This degree is primarily for transfer programs which lead to a Bachelor’s degree. The curriculum is composed largely of courses in the liberal arts and sciences. At a minimum, there are 48 semester credit-hours of study in the humanities, the natural sciences, mathematics and the social sciences.

The distribution requirements are: 12 credits in social science; 8 credits in science with laboratory; 6 credits in mathematics; 12 credits in English, including ENG 101 and 102; 6 credits in humanities; 2-3 credits in health; 2 credits in physical education activities; and 18 credits in electives and required courses as stated in the approved curricula.

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE (AS)

This degree may be used for certain occupationally oriented curricula, but is primarily designed to serve students in science or professionally related programs which lead to transfer to Bachelor of Science degree curricula. Associate in Science curricula have at least 30 semester-hours of credit in the humanities, the natural sciences, mathematics and the social sciences.

The distribution requirements are: 6 credits in social science; 8 credits in science with laboratory; 6 credits in mathematics; ENG 101 and 102; 6 credits in humanities; 2-3 credits in health; 2 credits in physical education activities; and 30 credits in electives and required courses as stated in the approved curricula.

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE (AAS)

This degree is primarily for occupationally oriented curricula, but may at times be appropriate as a transfer degree to certain types of specialized Baccalaureate programs. The curriculum has a minimum of 20 semester-hours of credit drawn from the liberal arts and science areas, comprising work distributed in the humanities, the natural sciences, mathematics and the social sciences.

The distribution requirements are: 6 credits in social science; 4 credits in science with laboratory; 3-4 credits in mathematics; 6 credits in English and communications, including ENG 101; 3 credits in humanities; 2-3 credits in health; 2 credits in physical education activities; and 40-48 credits in electives and required courses as stated in the approved curricula.

CERTIFICATES

A Certificate is a credential registered by the State Education Department and issued by the College in recognition of the completion of a curriculum other than one leading to a degree. A Certificate program can be completed in a shorter time than the Associate degree program —sometimes in less than a year.

Designed for those eager to enter the work force, Certificate programs at the College offer career preparation in several different areas.

Another advantage of the Certificate program is that most of the credits earned may be applied to related associate degree program. Students attend the same classes as degree candidates and are graded on the same basis.