Degree and Program Types
ASSOCIATE DEGREE
Associate degrees typically require between 60-64 credits and can be completed in two years, if attending college full-time. Four types of associate degrees are offered at Clinton Community College.
- Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.): An A.A.S. degree prepares graduates for immediate employment in their field of study. While the A.A.S. degree is designed primarily to make you marketable for a job upon graduation, many four-year institutions will accept these credits toward a bachelor's degree, should you decide to pursue further education.
- Associate of Arts (A.A.): An A.A. degree prepares graduates to transfer into a bachelor's degree program. It typically includes a liberal arts and science background, with greater importance placed on the humanities. Students who complete this degree will have received a comprehensive general education comprising a number of subject areas including the arts, humanities, mathematics, natural science, and social sciences.
- Associate of Science (A.S.): An A.S. degree prepares graduates to transfer into a bachelor's degree program. It typically includes a liberal arts and science background, with greater emphasis placed on the fields of math and science. Students who complete this degree will have received a comprehensive general education comprising a number of subject areas including the arts, humanities, mathematics, natural science, and social sciences.
- Associate of Occupational Studies (A.O.S.): An A.O.S. degree prepares graduates for a specific career path. The curriculum is based primarily on vocational-level training and does not require any liberal arts courses outside the field.
CERTIFICATE
Certificates are typically completed in one year or less, if attending college full-time. Certificate programs are appropriate for those who seek a credential for entry-level work in a specialized field or for individuals with previous college degrees or credits who wish to increase their career skills. Credits earned through a certificate program can be applied toward an associate degree in the same area.
Microcredentials are short, focused credentials designed to provide in-demand skills, know-how, and experience. Stackable microcredentials can also provide a pathway to a certificate or full degree, now or in the future.
MICROCREDENTIAL
Microcredentials are short, focused courses/trainings designed to provide in-demand skills, know-how, and experience. Stackable microcredentials can also provide a pathway to a certificate or full degree, now or in the future.
Who can pursue a microcredential? Current students, alumni, anyone seeking to advance their career or increase their earning potential, those needing to upskill or make a career change, those returning to the job market, and anyone looking to learn something new can earn a microcredential.
Students taking microcredentials may be eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials. Learn more about Tuition Assistance through Financial Aid.