How Do I Get There? Vocabulary

A two-year program that provides broader knowledge in fields ranging from Biomanufacturing and Computer Information Systems to Dental Hygiene and Digital Media. The in-depth knowledge and skills acquired in this degree prepares students for employment in a career track with advancement opportunities.

• Applied Associate Degree (A.A.S.)

• Associate Degree (A.A., A.S.)

• Bachelor’s Degree/baccalaureate (B.A., B.S.)

A two-year program that provides the academic foundation for transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree program. The Arts and the Science cover the curriculum taught in the first two years of a four-year program of study.

• Applied Associate Degree (A.A.S.)

• Associate Degree (A.A., A.S.)

• Bachelor’s Degree/baccalaureate (B.A., B.S.)

This degree is achieved through a four-year program that provides in-depth, specialized knowledge in a major field of study.

These degrees prepare students for employment in fields from Accounting to Theatre, or for further studies.

• Applied Associate Degree (A.A.S.)

• Associate Degree (A.A., A.S.)

• Bachelor’s Degree/baccalaureate (B.A., B.S.)

A two-year college that serves the residents of a local or regional area. Most of these colleges admit all or most of the students who apply. Some programs, such as Nursing, may be more selective. Students receive an associate degree after two years of successful full-time study. Additionally, many technical programs of study are taught at these colleges. Many students who enter general education programs (equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program) transfer to a four-year college or university.

• Community College

• Higher Education

• Technical College

• University

Also called postsecondary education, this is a term that refers to colleges, universities, and any education beyond high school that leads to a certificate or a college degree.

• Community College

• Higher Education

• Technical College

• University

These colleges prepare skilled workers in specific occupations that generally do not require a bachelors or more advanced degree. Technical college students can earn certificates that prepare them directly for employment in a few months to a little more than a year.

• Community College

• Higher Education

• Technical College

• University

An institution of higher learning that offers both undergraduate (associate and bachelor’s) and graduate (master’s and doctoral) programs. These vary considerably in programs offered and in size.

• Community College

• Higher Education

• Technical College

• University

A temporary step you take to build your career; provides a paycheck and experience

• Job

• Occupation

• Career

A lifelong journey that builds on your skills, knowledge, and experience

• Job

• Occupation

• Career

A broad term that encompasses the employment sector or category of jobs in which you work

• Job

• Occupation

• Career