Associate of Applied Science Degrees
The Saint Francis University Associate of Applied Science degree programs serve to enhance and build on the learner’s secondary education and acquired expertise. Since 1978, the University has offered special degree programs in conjunction with the Southern Alleghenies Tech Prep Consortium, the Greater Altoona and Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Centers, and select area health care providers. The program is dedicated to encouraging students to pursue higher education at all levels, to combine technical preparation with a liberal arts background, and to prepare learners to compete in a high-tech society.
The University offers Associate of Applied Science degrees in cooperation with the following post-secondary providers:
Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center
Students interested in a Saint Francis College Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree can choose from three certificate programs available through the Altoona Career and Technology Center. The Computer Information Specialist program is the basis for the Saint Francis University AAS program in Human Resource/Computer Technology. The Computer Repair Technology program can lead to AAS degrees in Engineering/Mechanical technology. Students interested in the Medical Assistant program can work toward an AAS degree in Healthcare Technology.
Greater Johnstown Career & Technology Center
The Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center offers post-secondary diplomas in four areas of study which are recognized towards Saint Francis University AAS degrees. Students with certificates in Electrical Technology, Electronics Technology, Microcomputer Technology, and Commercial Art are eligible to pursue AAS degrees in Engineering/Mechanical Technology.
Area Health Care Providers
The Office of Continuing Education at Saint Francis University works in cooperation with Altoona Hospital, Bon Secours Health System, and the Conemaugh Health System in Johnstown to provide AAS degree opportunities. Students interested in pursuing AAS degrees in health professions technology must complete the 27 credit diploma in their prescribed curriculum through their respective institutions.
Wrightco Technologies
Two AAS degrees can be completed through an articulation with Wrightco Technolgies. Students completing the Computer Applications Specialist Certificate are eligible to move into the AAS degree in human resources/computer technology; those with a certificate in Fiber Optics/Communication can get a degree in engineering/mechanical technology.
Upon completion of the 27 credits of post secondary instruction in the chosen post secondary program, the adult learner is eligible to enroll for 36 additional credits through the Saint Francis University Office of Continuing Education in one of the following curricula:
Associate of Applied Science in
Engineering/Mechanical Technology
CPSC (elective)
ENGL 103 Writing for a Discipline
ENGL 208 Writing and Communicating in Business
FINE ARTS Art/Theatre/Music
HIST (elective)
MATH (elective above 100)
MGMT 101 Principles of Management
PHIL 205 Discovering Philosophy
RLST 205 Faith and Franciscanism
SCIENCE (elective)
SOCIAL SCI (elective from ECON, PLSC, PSYC, SOC)
SPCH 103 Speech Fundamentals/Public Speaking
Associate of Applied Science in
Human Resource/Computer Technology
CPSC/MGMT (elective)
MGMT 101 Principles of Management
MGMT 201 Human Resource Management
ENGL 103 Writing for a Discipline
ENGL 208 Writing and Communicating in Business
FINE ARTS Art/Theatre/Music
HIST (elective)
MATH (elective above 100)
PHIL 205 Discovering Philosophy
RLST 205 Faith and Franciscanism
SOCIAL SCI (elective from ECON, PLSC, PSYC, SOC)
SPCH 103 Speech Fundamentals/Public Speaking
Associate of Applied Science in
Health Professions Technology
BIOL/CHEM (elective)
BIOL/CHEM (elective)
MGMT 101 Principles of Management
ENGL 103 Writing for a Discipline
FINE ARTS Art/Theatre/Music
HIST (elective)
MATH (elective above 100)
PHIL 205 Discovering Philosophy
PHIL 312 Bio-Ethics
RLST 205 Faith and Franciscanism
SOCIAL SCI (elective from ECON, PLSC, PSYC, SOC)
SPCH 103 Speech Fundamentals/Public Speaking
Common Questions and Concerns
Will I be required to take the SAT or other college eligibility tests?
Most adult learners coming into the Saint Francis University Associate of Applied Science programs need only official high school transcripts or evidence of GED completion in addition to documentation of their 27 certificate hours and any previous college credits.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
The thirty-six (36) credits that make up the Saint Francis University component may be completed at the learner’s own pace. Some individuals studying under state or federal programs have an obligation to complete the course work on a full-time basis, within a year. Courses are offered in Johnstown, Altoona, and Loretto during the fall, spring and summer sessions, and students can choose from a variety of one, three, six, and 15-week formats. Individuals may also elect to study part-time, scheduling fewer credits a semester over a longer period of time.
Having been out of the classroom for so long, I’m not sure that I have what it takes to succeed in college.
Most adult learners come to the college classroom with some doubts and concerns over their ability to complete a degree. The office of continuing education is sensitive to the unique needs of adults and has designed learning opportunities especially for them. Classes are small, informal, and often student centered, giving the individual greater opportunities to interact, utilize his/her past experiences, and assume more responsibility for the learning. An advisor from the Office of Continuing Education is always available to assist individuals in selecting classes appropriate to their needs and course of study.
How will a Saint Francis University Associate of Applied Science degree assist me in my career pursuits?
Since 1847, Saint Francis University has been a symbol for quality and integrity in higher education. With a commitment to lifelong learning and the adult learner, the University acknowledges individuals of all ages and backgrounds and provides relevant learning experiences for successful and meaningful lives. Our graduates move into the workforce with not only the tools for productive careers, but with a better understanding of the world and the people who live in it.