Selecting the right degree option before registering will save time and money and get you closer to achieving your educational and career goals.
Students choose their degree option based on career goals. Options include earning a:
- Certificate
- Diploma
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree
- Associate in Arts (AA)
- Associate in Science (AS) degree
- Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) degree
SCTCC also has partnerships with universities that allow SCTCC students to complete bachelor's degrees from our campus.
Certificate
Students may choose to complete a certificate. This is the most basic program option and requires successful completion of the fewest number of credits. It will allow students to gain a skill that may lead to employment.
Diploma
A diploma is a comprehensive program with extensive technical coursework to help develop job skills that will lead directly to employment. Students will choose a specific area of study and will complete their education in one or two years. The curriculum also includes general studies and general education courses. Before making a choice, students should be aware that general studies do not meet the Minnesota Transfer requirements. At the discretion of the receiving institution, these courses may be accepted as electives. Applicants are encouraged to check in advance if they intend to transfer to a four-year college or university.
Associate in Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.)
An Associate in Applied Science degree allows students to take not only program specific courses, but their degree will also include at least 15 transferable general education credits. The general education credits may transfer to a four-year college or university. St. Cloud Technical & Community College has articulation agreements with a variety of colleges and universities that will improve transferability upon completion of the degree. All AAS degrees will take at least two years to complete.
Associate in Science (A.S.)
An Associate in Science degree combines technical education with at least 30 general education credits. The general education credits may transfer to a four-year college or university. St. Cloud Technical & Community College has articulation agreements with a variety of colleges and universities that will improve transferability upon completion of the degree. For a list of transfer universities visit Minnesota State or our page for transfer students.
Associate in Arts (A.A.)
An Associate in Arts degree is awarded upon completion of a 60 credit academic program in the liberal arts and sciences.
This includes completion of the 40 credit Minnesota Transfer Curriculum, a wellness requirement and elective credits. It is designed for transfer to baccalaureate degree-granting institutions. For a list of transfer universities visit Minnesota State or our page for transfer students.
General Education Course Transfer
The Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) is the means by which students transfer their completed lower division general education work at one public college or university to meet lower division general/liberal education requirements at any public college or university in Minnesota. For more information about the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum, goal areas, and content, visit their website at www.mntransfer.org. View SCTCC’s MnTC course offering