Degrees and Certificates
Dutchess Community College is authorized by the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York to award the following degrees and certificates:
Associate in Arts (A.A.)
Programs that lead to this degree are designed for those students who plan to receive
a baccalaureate degree from a senior college or university. The A.A. degree may be
completed in two years and consists primarily of courses in the liberal arts and sciences,
special liberal arts and science courses related to the student’s major field of interest,
and electives.
Associate in Science (A.S.)
These programs are designed primarily to prepare students to continue their education
for the baccalaureate degree in scientific or professionally related programs at a
senior college or university. The A.S. degree may be completed in two years and consists
of a core of liberal arts and science courses, additional required special courses
related to the student’s field of interest, and electives.
Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)
These programs may be completed in two years and prepare their graduates for immediate
employment in specific occupations or careers. Many graduates, however, do transfer
some or all of their credits toward more advanced study at a senior college or university.
The A.A.S. degree consists of a basic core of liberal arts and science courses, special
courses related to a specific career area, and electives.
Certificate Programs
DCC offers two types of credit certificate programs: an academic certificate and an
applied academic certificate.
The Academic Certificate includes career‑oriented courses and at least nine credits of liberal arts courses.
The Applied Academic Certificate includes career‑oriented or technical courses and at least one liberal arts course, ENG 101. Certificates may be of varying length. However, it is expected that the majority of certificate programs can be completed in one calendar year. Courses in certificate programs are applicable to associate degree programs at Dutchess Community College.