Degree Programs and Requirements

Learning Objectives

  • By the end of this section, students will be able to:
    • Identify the differences between transfer and terminal degrees
    • Describe what General Education (GE) requirements are and how they
      apply to various degrees & degree requirements
    • Identify different types of elective course options
    • Identify core course components to various degrees and understand the
      significance for continued study (Transfer)

terminal degree is an AAS (Associate’s in Applied Science) degree that is designed for students who are looking to earn a 2 year degree and then enter the workforce.  The key word is “applied”, with students having more hands-on and experiential learning opportunities to prepare them for their prospective careers.

transfer degree is an AS degree that is a minimum of 60 credits and is designed to transfer with a student to a four year school.  Students must be aware of admissions and transfer requirements as they look for potential transfer schools and should work with their college’s transfer coordinator to select courses that match up with the four year school and maximize their time in their Associate’s program.

General Education (GE) elective courses enable students to acquire knowledge and skills that are useful and important for all educated persons, regardless of their jobs or professions.  General Education requirements include Math, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, American History, Western Civilization, Other World Civilizations, Humanities, Arts, Foreign Language and Basic Communications.

Your academic advisor can help you plan a path to meet your required General Education courses, as well as any other course requirements for your specific major. Students at SUNY Ulster must complete 7 out of the 10 General Education requirements met in order to have a transferable degree.

Many schools have specific admission requirements or prerequisites for certain majors. It is highly recommended that transfer students consult with their academic advisor or a transfer specialist in order to select the most appropriate program and courses for their curriculum when planning to transfer to another college.