Associate Degrees

Definition

UAA offers three types of associate degrees, all of which require the completion of a minimum of 60 credits:

  • Associate of Arts (AA) degrees combine 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 Associate of Science (AS) degree combines broad studies in written communication, oral communication, humanities, mathematics, natural sciences and social sciences, with elective coursework particularly in the areas of natural sciences, social sciences, and health-related fields. The AS provides a solid foundation for further study at the baccalaureate level, with advising pathways into social science, natural science, health, and behavioral health degrees.

  • 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.

General University Requirements for Associate Degrees

At a minimum, in order to earn an Associate degree:

  1. Be admitted to the program.
  2. Complete a minimum of 60 credits at the 100-level or above for the Associate degree.
  3. Complete at least 15 credits in residence.
  4. Students pursuing the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree complete the Associate of Applied Science General Education Requirements (GERs). 
  5. Complete all major requirements.
  6. Earn a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 (C) at UAA.
  7. Earn a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 (C) in all major requirements.
  8. Complete all degree requirements within five years of formal admission.
    1. Students may elect to graduate under the requirements of any catalog in effect during their formal admission as a degree-seeking student.

​See the program specific page for all requirements.

​General Education Requirements (GERs) for Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degrees

Student Learning Outcomes

The design of Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree ensures that students gain some proficiency in essential skills of communication, computation and human relations. Graduates of AAS degrees shall be able to meet the following Student Learning Outcomes applicable to these areas of related instruction:

  • Communicate effectively
  • Analyze empirically
  • Relate cooperatively

Requirements (12 credits)

Additional Policies for Associate Degrees

Double Majors for Associate of Applied Science Programs

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees are intended to provide specialized education. Therefore, they do include a major specialty and students may earn more than one AAS.

AAS degree-seeking students may apply to graduate (during the same semester) with two majors. For example, a student may select two areas from the approved majors within the AAS program (such as Welding and Automotive Technology).

Once formally admitted, students may add a second major through the Change of Major process. Forms are available on the Office of the Registrar's forms website. Students must satisfy the Associate Degrees General University Requirements, the AAS General Education Requirements and both sets of major requirements.

Students may elect to graduate under the requirements of any catalog in effect during the five years after formal acceptance to the program.

A double major is not applicable to the Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS).

Transfer Students

Students who have received a baccalaureate degree, an Associate of Arts (AA) degree, or an Associate of Science (AS) degree from another institutionally accredited college or university and who want to obtain an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from UAA must:

  • Meet admission requirements.
  • Complete the Associate Degrees General University Requirements but not the AAS General Education Requirements.
  • Complete all school/college requirements, if applicable, and the major requirements.