If you wish to enter the workforce as soon as possible and do not plan on attending university, you will have far better employment opportunities and make more money when you have credentials demonstrating job skills and knowledge in this special field. Consider earning an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree as a either an educational assistant or a special needs educational assistant. The two-year AAS degree in Special Needs Assistant qualifies you for employment in this critical-need field of growing demand, especially in rural areas. Additionally, you may choose to earn one of the certificates offered under the education program banner as an educational assistant or a special needs assistant. Certificates require fewer hours to complete than an AAS, but provide excellent entry-level skills credentials.
The following three degrees and certificates are available in the education occupational program for those not planning to transfer to a university or four-year college:
- Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS) • 64 credits
- Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) • 32 credits
- Certificate of Proficiency (CP) • 16 or 26 credits
depending on selected area of study
If you have plans of transferring to a four-year college or one of the three public universities in the field of early education, please visit these other degree offerings: Associate of Arts in Elementary Education or the Associate of General Studies Special Needs Educational Assistant. The AAS degree is NOT for university transfer.
For details on the courses needed to earn your degree or certificate in any of these programs, see the current NPC catalog or talk with an academic adviser.
- Special Needs Education Assistant (AAS, CAS, CP)
- Educational Assistant (CAS, CP)
