Two-Year Associate of Applied Science Degree
The Business Administration AAS degree is offered to students seeking employment in occupations related to business functions such as management, marketing, retail, and Web Design. Technical core coursework in accounting, management, personal finance, business law, and computer applications is required; students then have a choice between an Emphasis in Business Management or an Emphasis in Marketing.
The Emphasis in Business Management is most appropriate for students interested in general business management or ownership; it can lead to promotional opportunities for students already employed in a business occupation or with substantial background in that industry or management. This AAS is typically the best option for students who plan to continue their education and complete a Bachelor’s Degree in a related area. A One-Year Certificate of Completion is also available in Business Management. This certificate can provide the foundation necessary for entry level business occupations, and can also be the first stage of completion for a student who then desires to continue on and complete the AAS. This certificate can also provide supplemental education for students in other programs who desire to graduate with general business knowledge as well.
The Emphasis in Marketing is the best option for students interested in general marketing, sales, advertising, retail management, or Web Design. Four related certificates are available:
- Marketing/Sales (One-Year Certificate, 49 credits)
- Web Design for Marketing (One-Year Certificate, 45 credits)
- Web Design Specialist (Career Pathway Certificate, 20 credits)
- Retail Management (Statewide Certificate, endorsed by the Western Association of Food Chains, 33 credits)
Please refer to the specific certificate for additional information; students choosing to focus on any certificates noted above should work very closely with their advisor to select the appropriate coursework.
Candidates for this AAS degree must satisfactorily complete all the requirements of the degree including a minimum of 95 credits, 40 of which are in the General Education Component. The General Education requirement allows the flexibility to continue professional development later, by applying the basic skills gained to more in-depth study.
Core Outcomes include: Development of the concepts, terminology, critical thinking skills, and professional behavior necessary to be effective in business, with specific competencies dependent on the particular emphasis area of study. Program coursework focuses on the fundamental areas of business, including management, accounting, marketing, international business, finance, business law, economics, and use of computers in business operations. Theory and current trends are explored, and numerous opportunities exist for practical application of concepts to actual organizational situations. Business ethics and workplace dynamics are addressed throughout this program with strong focus on professional communication and interpersonal skills.
Successful pursuit of this degree requires students to possess collegiate skills in reading, communication, computation, and critical thinking. To acquire that competency, it is highly recommended that students complete pre-collegiate courses to gain these skills in the first terms of their program.
It is imperative that students interested in occupations related to general business, accounting, management, and marketing work closely with their academic advisor to create a plan that addresses their specific career interests. Advanced training may be required for certain occupations, and transfer degrees may be more appropriate for students intending to further their education beyond KCC.
The first year of the AAS degree program offers technical specialty coursework and completion of prerequisites. The second year covers a broad range of skills, including those necessary for diversification and upward mobility within the occupational area.
Program Requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 95 credit hours.
Writing
Nine credits are required from the following:
Computation
Four credits are required from the following:
Arts and Letters
Three credits are required.
Social Sciences
Three credits are required.
Science / Math / Computer Science
Eight credits are required. Students planning to transfer should work closely with their advisors to choose science with laboratories.
Electives
Additional technical courses will bring the total number of credits to 95. Recommended electives will vary based on student career plans. Recommended courses (*) for Marketing Emphasis. Advisor approval is required.
