The Meaning of an AAS Degree

An AAS degree is an Associate of Applied Science degree. It is usually a two-year degree that is widely recognized as a meaningful qualification of employment in certain fields.

Career-Oriented

A.A.S. degree programs provide students with expertise necessary for certain entry-level positions. While an A.A.S. degree can provide students some credits for transfer to a four-year college or university, its purpose often is to prepare students for immediate entry into a full-time position upon completion of study.

Schools

A.A.S. degrees are usually obtained through study at community colleges. Some A.A.S. degrees can be acquired online though accredited programs.

Coursework

A.A.S. degree programs focus on specific job-related training, not general education, and are usually taught by instructors with previous work experience in the field. Courses are often hands-on and simulate an actual work environment.

Career Fields

A.A.S. degree programs cater to a variety of specific occupational-technical fields. Degrees exist in such career sectors as health, construction, computer technology, criminal justice, business, graphic design, automotive services, electronics, horticulture, paralegal services and hospitality.

Job-Specific Titles

A.A.S. degrees are also referred to as their career specific titles. Examples include the degree titles Associate in Engineering Technology, Associate in Massage Therapy or Associate in Network Administration.

References

• College of DuPage: A.A.S. degrees
• Education-Portal: Associate in Applied Science

Resources

• PayScale: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree Hourly Rate