Technical Studies, AAS

This is a G3 eligible program.  Click here to learn more.

PURPOSE: The Technical Studies - Trades, AAS is a two-year degree that prepares students for entry-level jobs in technical fields including electricity, HVAC, mechanical maintenance, electronics and sUAS (Drone) Technology . Students must complete at least one career studies certificate as part of the credits. Additional courses should be taken to create a coherent plan of study. Pre-approved tracks for many of the skilled trades areas are presented below.

CREDENTIAL: An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is a major in a career-technical area that takes two years for full-time students to complete. 

TRANSFER INFORMATION: This program is not intended for transfer. Students desiring to transfer should consult their academic advisors and their intended transfer institutions for specific direction in program and course selection. 

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Students must meet Laurel Ridge admission requirements. The minimum requirements for the Technical Studies degree is 60 credits and includes 15 General Education Credits, 1-2 credits in Student Development, and 44-52 credits in Content Skills and Knowledge. The Content Skills and Knowledge must include one or two career studies certificates with additional coursework, which may include experiential, internship, independent study, and/or apprenticeship credit. 

PROGRAM OUTCOMES:  By the completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Communicate technical information in written, oral, and media formats
• Collaborate effectively in teams to improve productivity and ensure quality of product or process outcomes
• Explain how the key principles of the field shape the application of technical knowledge within the industry or career field
• Apply career specific technical knowledge to problem-solve and resolve challenges and issues in practice.
• Use appropriate safety measures within the field.

General Education Requirements (recommended courses in parenthesis)

Students must select at least one course from each of the General Education areas below.  One additional course is required from any of the four General Education areas to total 15 credits.

Student Development