* Associate of Arts (AA): This degree is primarily focused on general education and provides a foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. It's designed to prepare students for transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor's degree. It emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and a broad range of knowledge across different disciplines. There's less emphasis on specific vocational skills.
* Associate of Applied Science (AAS): This degree is geared towards vocational training and specific career preparation. AAS programs focus on practical skills and hands-on training related to a particular field, such as nursing, computer technology, or automotive repair. While some general education courses are typically included, the majority of coursework is directly applicable to the chosen profession. Graduates often enter the workforce directly after earning an AAS degree.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Associate of Arts (AA) | Associate of Applied Science (AAS) |
|-----------------|-----------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------|
| Focus | General education, liberal arts & sciences | Vocational training, specific career skills |
| Goal | Transfer to a four-year college/university | Direct entry into the workforce |
| Curriculum | Broad range of subjects | Specialized training in a specific field |
| Transferability | Highly transferable to bachelor's programs | Limited transferability to bachelor's programs |
| Career Path | Further education, then career | Direct career entry |
In short: An AA is a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree, while an AAS is a terminal degree designed for immediate career entry. The best choice depends entirely on your educational and career goals.