DIVISION OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

AAS, Specialized Studies (online)

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    • Ladder up your career with a tailored A.A.S. in Specialized Studies. 

    The Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies is an online degree program that offers a flexible, laddering pathway for people with specialized certifications and more who wish to pursue a college degree. 

    • Leverage your "industry know-how" to earn a college degree.
    • Save time and money with this transfer-friendly program that awards credits from qualifying specialized certifications. 
    • Aligns with certifications in fields such as Aviation, Electrical, HVAC, Health Occupations, Welding and more.
    • Perfect fit for students in SFU's new Aviation Maintenance Technician certificate who would like to earn an associate degree at the same time.
    • A.A.S. credits can also be rolled into a bachelor's degree program at SFU.

    Free Transfer-Credit Evaluation:  We'd love to talk to you about how this flexible program could meet your career goals. Contact us to learn more.

    CURRICULUM 

    What You’ll Learn in the Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies

    The Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies is an online degree program for any student seeking an AAS. Whether your career interest lies in business, healthcare, aviation or another area, this AAS degree is for you. It is specifically designed for students holding specialized certification or students who are dual enrolled with affiliate institutions such as Career & Technology Centers, Business and Technical Schools, or Hospitals/Health Providers and are earning a specialized certification. The program combines liberal arts courses in the Catholic Franciscan tradition with a specialized vocational focus. 

    • Snapshot
    • Courses
    • Learning Objectives

    • Program Snapshot

      • Delivery: 100% online 
      • Courses: Minimum of 4 required courses with credits transferred in from a specialized certificate to complete the program.
      • Credits: 60  total credits with 48 of the credits applied from previous qualifying certification. 
      • Examples of specialized certifications: Aviation, Welding, HVAC, Health Occupations, Electrical 
      • Anticipated completion time: 1 year 
      • Cost: $485 per credit (Scholarships are available. Ask for details!)

    • Courses

      General Core  (9 credits)

      • Digital & Information Literacy
      • Introduction to Franciscan Theology
      • Research Writing

      Quantitative Reasoning  (3 credits)

      •  student selects course

      Specialized Certification  (Minimum 48 credits)

      Examples: Aviation, Welding, HVAC, Health Occupations, Electrical

      For full details view: Course Catalog - 24/25 | Plan of Study

    • The Division of Professional Studies will graduate students who have the knowledge, skills, love of learning, confidence, drive, and ethical and moral values needed to be spiritually fulfilled in life and successful in professional careers.

      Student Learning Outcomes

      • Develop competencies in technical skill sets.    
      • Develop research, quantitative, and analytical abilities.  
      • Build effective communication and writing skills.  
      • Integrate Franciscan values and ethical frameworks into one’s personal leadership style by accepting the inherent value and individuality of every person.  
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    Getting Started

    The first step is to contact us so that we can review your previous experience and help you develop a solid plan to transition your specialized skills into a college degree.

    Division of Professional Studies

    Email: professionalstudies@francis.edu 

    Call us: 1-800-457-6300