The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree is intended for students who plan to continue their education at a Florida public university or state college and enter the junior year of a bachelor’s degree program. The degree prepares students for most majors offered across the State University System of Florida. Students must still meet the specific requirements for their chosen major, including Common Program Prerequisites (CPP), before they graduate.
The A.A. degree requires 60 college‑level credits, including 36 credits of General Education coursework and 24 credits of electives, selected based on the requirements of the intended degree pathway. Visit the Graduation Requirements section of this catalog to learn more about the requirements needed to earn a degree from Valencia College.
All A.A. degree graduates are guaranteed admission* to one Florida public university* or to a Florida College System institution** that offers a bachelor's degree. Valencia A.A. degree graduates are guaranteed admission to the University of Central Florida through DirectConnect to UCF. Students are not guaranteed admission to their institution of choice or to limited-access programs, teacher certification programs, or programs requiring an audition. Visit the Articulation Agreements and Transfer Pathways section of this catalog to learn more about these exciting transfer pathways.
The Associate in Arts program learning outcomes describe the holistic learning that occurs through the general education curriculum, accompanied by preparation for baccalaureate study. Students who complete the Associate of Arts degree will be prepared to:
- Analyze information, ideas, and perspectives from a variety of sources and disciplines using critical thinking.
- Communicate ideas clearly and effectively across disciplines, using appropriate formats, styles, and technologies for varied audiences.
- Apply interdisciplinary knowledge and skills to connect concepts, adapt learning to new contexts, and address real-world situations.
- Reflect on their learning experiences to evaluate personal and academic growth, adapt strategies for future learning, and demonstrate habits of lifelong learning and informed citizenship.