What is an Associate in Applied Science? (A.A.S.)

Posted: May 22, 2016 | Author: Southern Utah University | Read Time: 1 minutes

SUU Library under the snowThe Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree program is designed to meet the needs of mid-career adults in a wide range of applied fields.

It is a Two-year program that provides broader knowledge in fields ranging from Aviation, Livestock Farm Management, to Early Childhood Development. The in-depth knowledge and skills acquired in and Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree prepare students for employment in a career track with advancement opportunities.

Unlike A.A. and A.S. degrees, which are designed primarily as transfer degrees, the A.A.S. degree is designed for students who intend to enter the workforce immediately following graduation from their program. Consequently, most A.A.S. 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.

Southern Utah University offers the following Associate in Applied Science Degrees:

  • Aviation
  • General Technology - Business Emphasis
  • Information Technology
  • Early Childhood Development
  • Criminal Justice
  • Paralegal
  • Livestock Farm Management
  • Equine Studies
  • Construction Management
  • CAD/CAM Engineering Technology
  • Electronics Engineering
  • Pre-Engineering


It’s important to note that some A.A.S. courses are not granted transfer equivalency credit, nor will they fulfill the general education requirements of a bachelor’s degree program.

Find the version of this article in Spanish here: ¿Qué es un Asociado en Ciencias Aplicadas?

This article was published more than 5 years ago and might contain outdated information or broken links. As a result, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

Tags: Blog

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