What it is
The Associate of Science (AS) is a two-year transfer degree emphasizing math and science. Like the AA it covers the first two years of a bachelor's, but tilts toward STEM and health-science transfer pathways.
The degrees & designations
The AS leans STEM/health:
How long it takes
About two years of full-time study (~60 credits); part-time takes longer, and evening/online options are common.
What you study
General education with a stronger math and science core (calculus, biology, chemistry, physics) aligned to STEM/health transfer requirements.
Getting in
Community colleges are often open-enrollment with a high school diploma or GED; some programs (e.g., health) are competitive with prerequisites.
Cost & funding
Associate degrees are typically the lowest-cost path in higher education; aid, grants, and (in some states) tuition-free community college apply.
Where it leads
An AS transfers into a bachelor's (often a BS) in science, technology, engineering, math, or health.
How it compares
Versus the AA, the AS is more math/science-heavy; versus the AAS, it's academic/transfer rather than career-terminal.
Is it right for you?
An AS fits students aiming for a STEM or health-science bachelor's who want an affordable first two years.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring:
Key facts
- WhatA two-year science/math transfer degree
- PurposeFirst two years of a STEM/health bachelor's
- EmphasisMath and science core
- Vs AA/AASMore STEM than AA; academic vs job-ready AAS
- CostLowest-cost path
Where to learn more
Keep exploring the resource: