Undergraduate Programs

The university does not prescribe specific courses for all students. It is the responsibility of each student to determine an appropriate program of courses within the framework of their academic program in consultation with an academic advisor (see Advising & Academic Support for further information). The requirements for each degree include completion of a minimum number of courses, resident credits, fulfillment of the General University Requirements and the General Education Requirements (GERs), and completion of program requirements.

Occupational Endorsements and Undergraduate Certificates

The university offers two types of certificates at the undergraduate level:

• Occupational endorsement certificates (OECs) are certificates requiring 29 or fewer credits to complete. These certificates provide the specialized knowledge and skills needed in specific employment sectors.

• Undergraduate certificates of 30 credits or more offer focused instruction in a concentrated area. They include an equivalent of at least 6 credits of related instruction at the collegiate level in communications, computation and human relations. These certificates provide knowledge and skill development in broad enough areas to prepare students for entry into a variety of career fields. They are particularly appropriate in scientific or technical areas such as health care, computer systems, transportation or industrial technology.

Both of these certificate types are noted on transcripts. Coursework used to complete each type may also apply to associate and baccalaureate degrees that the student may pursue.

Associate Degrees

UAA offers two types of associate degrees, both of which require the completion of 60 credits or more:

• The Associate of Arts (AA) degree combines broad studies in written communication, oral communication, humanities, mathematics, natural sciences and social sciences, with elective coursework selected by the student. The degree provides broad exposure to systems of thought and inquiry, allows exploration of a variety of disciplines and learning experiences, and provides a solid foundation for further study at the baccalaureate level. The AA degree is administered by the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). The complete program description is found under the CAS section.

• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees provide applied or specialized studies that are used to satisfy a student’s specific educational needs. Many AAS programs prepare students for work in a particular field of employment. Some AAS programs are designed to provide a foundation for a specific related baccalaureate degree. Students in AAS programs build knowledge and skills needed to carry out specific tasks while they develop abilities in the essential elements of communications, computation and human relations.

Baccalaureate Degrees

Baccalaureate, or bachelor’s, degrees consist of a minimum of 120 credits and comprise three interrelated parts:

1. General Education Requirements, which provide students a broad overview of the liberal arts and sciences and create the foundation for further study in the major or program, lifelong learning and workplace preparedness. GERs are best taken early in a student's academic career.
2. Major Requirements, which afford students intensive study in a specialized subject, program or professional area. The major prepares a student for employment and/or graduate-level course work.
3. Elective Credits, which are the body of work to complete the 120 credits. These credits may be limited, as in the case of many professional programs, or open for the student's choice, allowing for students to investigate other areas of interest. Students may choose to declare a Minor (generally 18-24 credits from within the Elective credits) to pursue an additional area of study or qualification. A well-selected minor can strongly complement a student's major area of study.

Baccalaureate degrees are offered at UAA in more than 50 major study areas. Depending upon the program or major, graduation requirements can vary, so students should check with an advisor to get the latest program details.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificates

Post-baccalaureate certificate programs present a cohesive sequence of related courses designed to provide continuing education past the baccalaureate level. Upon completion of a certificate, students will have acquired an area of specialization or an interdisciplinary perspective, or will have completed requirements for professional certifications awarded by agencies outside the university. Post-baccalaureate certificates are designed with a majority of undergraduate coursework.

Minors

A minor is a component of a baccalaureate degree. A minor may only be issued simultaneously with a baccalaureate degree. A minor from UAA consists of a minimum of 18 credits, at least 6 of which must be upper division. Students must earn at least 3 credits in residence in each minor field. They must also earn a UAA cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.00 (C) in the minor. Students must follow minor requirements from the same catalog used for the baccalaureate program. Refer to each discipline for specific requirements. Students must declare minors no later than the deadline to submit an Application for Graduation.