Definitions

Associate in Arts (AA) Degree

An undergraduate award signifying successful completion of a prescribed course of study (60-64 semester credit hours) designed for students planning to transfer to a senior institution to pursue a baccalaureate degree in the liberal arts. Only colleges accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) are authorized to award this degree.

Associate in Science (AS) Degree

An undergraduate award signifying successful completion of a prescribed course of study (60-64 semester credit hours) designed for students planning to transfer to a senior institution to pursue a baccalaureate degree in the sciences or specialized professional field. Only colleges accredited by SACSCOC are authorized to award this degree.

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree

An undergraduate award signifying successful completion of a prescribed course of study (60-76 semester credit hours) that offers specialization in a technical, business, or semi-professional field qualifying the student for employment upon graduation while providing the possibility of transfer of some credit to a senior institution. Only colleges accredited by SACSCOC are authorized to award this degree.

Certificate (CER)

An undergraduate award (less than a degree) signifying the successful completion of a prescribed course of study (30-60 semester hours) that provides the student with a specialized set of skills for employment or professional advancement. Certificates are not designed for transfer to a senior institution. All colleges are authorized to award certificates.

General Education Short-Term Certificate (STC)

An undergraduate award signifying completion of a prescribed course of study of 28 semester hours. This award is designed to assist students in developing an academic foundation to earn credit toward the associate of arts or associate of science degree. For the General Education Short-Term Certification Proposed Curriculum Pathway, click here.

Career Technical Short-Term Certificate (STC)

An undergraduate award signifying the successful completion of a prescribed course of study (9-29 semester credit hours) equipping the student with a focused set of skills for an entry-level position in business and industry. CTE Short-term certificates are not designed to transfer to a senior institution. All colleges are authorized to award short-term certificates.