Here's what you should know about an A.A.:
* It's a stepping stone: An A.A. is often used as a stepping stone to a four-year bachelor's degree. Many colleges offer transfer agreements where an A.A. degree guarantees transfer into a specific program at a four-year university.
* General education focus: The A.A. curriculum typically focuses on general education courses in areas like:
* Humanities (literature, history, philosophy)
* Social Sciences (psychology, sociology, political science)
* Math and Science (calculus, biology, chemistry)
* Communication and Writing (English composition, public speaking)
* Preparation for various fields: While not as specialized as a bachelor's degree, an A.A. can prepare you for various careers in fields like:
* Healthcare (nursing assistants, medical assistants)
* Business (office administration, bookkeeping)
* Education (early childhood education)
* Technology (computer programming, web development)
Benefits of an A.A. degree:
* Lower cost: Community colleges generally have lower tuition rates than four-year universities.
* Smaller class sizes: You can often get more personalized attention from professors in smaller class settings.
* Flexible schedule: Community colleges often offer a wider range of class times and formats to accommodate different lifestyles.
* Career exploration: You can use the A.A. to explore different academic areas and identify your career interests.
Choosing an A.A. program:
When choosing an A.A. program, consider:
* Transfer agreements: Look for programs with transfer agreements to universities you're interested in.
* Career goals: Consider your career goals and choose a program that provides relevant coursework.
* Faculty and resources: Research the faculty and resources available at different colleges.
Overall, an A.A. degree can be a valuable asset in your educational journey, whether you're seeking a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or a direct entry into a career.