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Degree Opportunities

Many of our academic programs at GCC offer you the opportunity to earn an Associate of Arts degree (A.A.), Associate in Science degree (A.S.), Associate in Applied Science degree (A.A.S.), Certificate, or Micro-Credential. Each offers you a different opportunity within your field of study.

A.A.

An Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree includes 45 credit hours of liberal arts education and prepares you for seamless transfer to a four-year institution with a focus on areas such as Theatre Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

A.S.

Earning an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree from any of our academic programs will set the groundwork for you to excel in today’s competitive work environment. By working with a transfer counselor, you will take the necessary introductory courses recognized by many four-year institutions as general education requirements, and also have the opportunity to begin exploring your desired field of study. Earning your A.S. degree from GCC is a cost-effective way to continue your education and earn your Bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution.

A.A.S.

An Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree prepares you for entry-level positions in your desired field of study. This degree is specifically designed for students who are eager to venture into the workforce upon graduation from GCC. An A.A.S. degree will provide you with a strong foundation of important concepts, principles, and methods within your field, as well as allow you to transfer to a four-year institution, if you choose.

Certificate

If you are already in the workforce, earning a Certificate in a specific academic program will allow you to change careers or even earn a promotion within your company. A Certificate will also give you the opportunity to develop a deeper background in the field you are already employed in. You can expand your understanding of a specific field by applying all courses within the Certificate program toward earning an A.A.S. degree.

Micro-Credential

Micro-Credentials are opportunities to enhance your skills with concentrated coursework in a particular area of study. Micro-Credentials verify, validate, and attest that specific skills and/or competencies have been achieved. They differ from traditional degrees and certificates in that they are generally offered in shorter or more flexible timespans and tend to be more narrowly focused. Micro-credentials can be offered online, in the classroom, or via a hybrid of both.