Knowing whether you’re career military or whether you’re getting out after the first tour affects your education options. Ginny Newman, assistant director of military education for Penn State University, said there is a significant difference between an Associate of Science degree (AS) and an Associate of Arts (AA) and how it relates to a military career.
The Associate of Science usually focuses on more math and science courses that are needed for specific professional training. An Associate of Arts focuses on more humanities courses that normally encompass more core courses in a bachelor’s degree. A career military member should tend to favor an Associate of Arts because it allows more streamlined opportunities to earn a bachelor’s degree. Traditionally, obtaining a bachelor’s or associate degree is more important for military promotion than the actual choice of major. Also, liberal arts programs do not have a shelf life.
An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) is typically designed for students preparing for entry-level employment or to upgrade in a specific occupation. Russell Tresner is the military coordinator for the University of Oklahoma’s College of Liberal Studies. He is also a 26-year Air Force Veteran. Tresner obtained an AAS while in the military, which actually delayed his educational objectives.
“If you pursue the applied degree, you’re probably not getting the credits you need for most bachelor’s degrees,” Tresner said. “You should go for an applied degree if you’re interested in one technical area and not planning on completing a bachelor’s program. The AAS is a degree that allows someone to work in a technical field.”