Associate in Applied Science

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is a two-year undergraduate degree similar to the Associate of Arts (AA) and the Associate of Science (AS) degree. Unlike AA and AS degrees, which are designed primarily as transfer degrees, the AAS degree is designed for students who intend to enter the workforce immediately following graduation from their program. Consequently, most AAS degree programs require students to choose an area of emphasis or specialty early on in the program so they are adequately prepared for entry-level career positions within a specific field upon graduation. While some students who earn an AAS degree may transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree, it’s important to note that some AAS courses are not granted transfer equivalency credit, nor will they fulfill the general education requirements of a bachelor’s degree program. If a four-year college degree is in your future, it is more advantageous to earn an AA or AS degree.

See a student success navigator to obtain a guide sheet and to discuss requirements for your selected program of study.