* Terminal: An AA can be a terminal degree, meaning it's the final degree a student pursues. It can prepare individuals for entry-level positions in some fields.
* Transferable: More commonly, an AA degree is designed to be transferable. Many students earn an AA at a community college with the intention of transferring those credits to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor's degree. However, it's crucial to check the transfer policies of the receiving institution, as not all credits will always transfer.
So the answer is both. It depends entirely on the individual student's educational and career aspirations.