An associate degree can be granted in different fields. Two examples are the Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science. Most associate degrees allow graduates to transfer their credits if they continue to a four-year program. Many associate degrees are targeted to students who want to find employment immediately after graduation. Degrees of this type are found in areas such as nursing, legal, computers, data processing and business management.
Metropolitan Community College at the Omaha, Nebraska, campus offers an Associate in Science in Nursing. The program is recognized by the Nebraska Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Required first-year classes include chemistry, English composition, algebra and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Second-year classes include health assessment and therapeutic interventions, adult nursing, mental health nursing and human relations.
Applied science degrees prepare student for careers in fields where technical and scientific knowledge is used to solve problems. Many such programs are related to engineering, computers and technology. The programs cater to students who have well-defined career goals. The coursework may include classes such as medical terminology, physics, information systems, software programming and mechanical equipment.
Rasmussen College offers an associate degree in business administration. You can choose among specializations in computer principles, payroll accounting and customer service. Coursework includes classes in financial accounting, business law, ethics, communications and principles of marketing. Students are required to take foundation courses in business and math. Rasmussen College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.