2024-2025 Catalog and Student Handbook 
    
    Dec 05, 2024  
2024-2025 Catalog and Student Handbook

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Description


This Section provides a listing of Robeson Community College’s associate of applied science programs. The College’s programs are subject to change. For an updated list, please visit the College’s website at www.robeson.edu [opens in a new window]. 

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) programs are designed to provide entry-level employment training and range from 64 to 76 semester hour credits. A full-time student can typically complete one of these programs within two years. All two-year degree programs at RCC comply with the program standards established by the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS). In addition to major course work, associate in applied science degree programs require a minimum of 15 semester hour credits of general education.

RCC’s General Education courses provide learners the opportunity to attain a diverse set of skills, knowledge, and attributes. General Education courses may enhance learners’ existing skills or introduce learners to new disciplines and subject areas. Each AAS program at Robeson Community College (RCC) includes general education courses that introduce content and skills students have in common, regardless of their major or degree program. In addition to discipline specific content, these courses introduce general intellectual skills, such as critical thinking, communication and quantitative reasoning. For associate in applied science degree programs, the core encompasses 15 semester hours in the following areas: English, humanities/fine arts, social/behavioral sciences, and natural sciences/mathematics. Certain courses in associate degree programs may be accepted by a four-year college or university for transfer credit in an associated field.

Student competencies in general intellectual skills are introduced and assessed in general education courses; however, curriculum major courses also teach these skills embedded in program specific content. It is the reinforcement of these competencies across disciplines and in program specific courses that advance qualified students. Therefore, RCC will assess the extent to which students have obtained these competencies (SACSCOC Section 8 2.b.). The General Education Student Learning Outcomes (GESLO) are defined as follows:

Written Communication

Students will be able to communicate effectively following the conventions of standard written English in areas such as mechanics, organization, language, and support.

Critical Thinking

Students will be able to use cognitive skills necessary in application, analysis, synthesis and evaluation to solve problems in academic and real world situations.

Quantitative Reasoning

Students will be able to use mathematical skills necessary for calculation, analysis and problem solving.

Upon completion of an AAS degree, graduates will have had the opportunity to develop competency in written communication, critical thinking and quantitative reasoning. These areas provide the academic foundation required to succeed in their academic and professional careers.