Dear Counselor,
I was wondering if I’m working towards the right degree. I’m in elementary education and I think I’m going to graduate with an Associate in Arts. Can you explain the degrees?
Brook B., Spring Valley, Ill.
Dear Brooke,
IVCC offers the following degrees:
TRANSFER DEGREES
- Associate in Arts – Most popular degree for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution and complete a Bachelor’s degree. It requires a minimum of 64 credit hours, the majority of which are general education courses, such as math, science, social science and humanities courses. Typically students majoring in disciplines like elementary education, communications and social sciences would pursue this degree.
- Associate in Science – This degree is another option for transfer students to fulfill their general education requirements. It is similar to the A.A. degree. The major difference is more credits are required in the math and science areas. Typical majors for this degree are chemistry, biology, pharmacy and physical therapy.
- Associate in Engineering Science – This is another transfer degree option specifically for engineering students.
IVCC has agreements with several four-year state universities to allow students who complete any of the above degrees to enter the university with junior year standing.
ADDITIONAL DEGREES
- Associate in Applied Science – This is a career-oriented degree designed to provide a student with technical skills. It is not a transfer degree but some universities will accept certain courses from A.A.S. programs. Examples of programs that offer this degree are electronics technology, computer-aided design and automotive technology.
- Associate in General Studies – This is an individualized degree that meets the interest and needs of the student. Like the A.A.S., it is not a transfer degree but certain courses will be accepted by some universities.
If you have other questions, don’t hesitate to talk with a counselor.