* Career-oriented degree that prepares students for specific occupations
* Typically offered by community colleges and technical schools
* Usually takes two years to complete
* Includes both general education courses and specialized courses in the student's chosen field
* Graduates of AAS programs are often able to find jobs immediately after graduation
AS Degree (Associate of Sciences)
* Academic degree that provides a broad foundation in the liberal arts
* Typically offered by community colleges and four-year universities
* Usually takes two years to complete
* Includes general education courses and electives
* Graduates of AS programs often choose to transfer to four-year universities to complete a bachelor's degree
Summary:
The main difference between an AAS degree and an AS degree is the focus of the coursework. AAS degrees are designed for students who want to prepare for a specific career, while AS degrees provide a more general education that can lead to further study or employment in a variety of fields.