Transferring an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree

The Transferability of the A.A.S. degrees and their respective courses is dependent upon a number of factors.  Students interested in the transfer of A.A.S. degrees should review the facts listed below and take the following actions:

Fact #1

The programs in which students earn A.A.S. degrees are called career programs.  The A.A.S. degrees were not designed for transfer to four-year schools.  Richmond Community College awards other degrees for transfer purposes - Associate in Arts (A.A.) and Associate in Science (A.S.)  However, earning the A.A.S. degree does not necessarily preclude transfer to a four-year school.

Fact #2

The A.A.S. degree programs were created to provide specific skills and knowledge in a field so that students in that career area can either find a job or upgrade their current status in that specific career field when they leave RCC.

With these facts in mind, students should take one or more of the following actions to assist them in making a decision about transferring an A.A.S. degree:

Action #1

Meet with an advisor, counselor, or faculty member as soon as possible when it comes to planning your course of study.  You will be able to discuss your future career and transfer plans if you are undecided about a specific career and/or if you need help determining what type of associate or higher degree is appropriate for your chosen career path.  Faculty may also provide information to help you select an appropriate degree beyond the Associate in Applied Science Degree.

Action #2

If you are in your first year of studies and are currently undecided about a transfer degree versus an A.A.S. degree when it is possible to take general education requirement courses to satisfy A.A.S. requirements. 

Additional Information

When you meet with your advisor, counselor, or faculty member, find out if RCC has a formal Articulation Agreement for your program with four-year schools which states the conditions under which an A.A.S. degree or a specific program or courses will transfer.  For example:  which courses will transfer as major requirements, which as electives, which will not transfer at all, and which will satisfy prerequisites for courses at the four-year school.

If there is not a formal Articulation Agreement for your career program, there are transfer credit equivalencies available that lists if RCC career courses will be accepted by various programs at various institutions.