Associate in Arts

The Associate in Arts degree (AA) provides a framework for equipping students who want to transfer and who wish to earn an associate degree from Black Hawk College. The AA is suitable for students who are selecting courses appropriate for their major at a specific four-year college or university, or who are deciding which major to pursue.

The first two years of a baccalaureate degree at a four-year college or university are devoted primarily to a general education core curriculum and a small number of introductory courses for a specific transfer major. Transfer students can complete these types of courses at BHC within the AA degree with the goal of arriving at the transfer school well prepared for their major.

The AA degree is widely accepted by transfer schools. Academic advisors work closely with students and the four-year colleges and universities to choose suitable courses. Students may begin their transfer planning by reviewing Transfer Guides & Agreements. Students interested in other colleges or universities should contact the transfer institution or a BHC advisor.

Students completing the Associates in Arts degree will be able to:

  • Apply scientific thinking skills through the study of physical and life sciences
  • Apply quantitative skills through the study of mathematics
  • Apply communication skills through the study of speech and writing
  • Evaluate human experiences through the study of the humanities and fine arts
  • Develop an appreciation of human continuity, diversity and change through the study of social and behavioral sciences

AA Degree Framework - current academic year

Communication 3 courses
Humanities & Fine Arts 3 courses
Social & Behavioral Sciences 3 courses
Mathematics 1 course
Physical & Life Sciences 2 courses including lab
Elective Courses Approximately 8 courses: up to 23 credits
Non-Western Studies Course 1 course (may be satisfied by choosing a designated non-western Humanities, Fine Arts, or Social & Behavioral Sciences course)
Total Credits: 60
100- or  200- level courses count
Approximately 20 courses
additional pre-requisite courses may be required

AA Degree Planning Worksheets (by catalog year)

Before 2020, please refer to the respective BHC catalog. In the event of conflicting information between a worksheet and respective catalog, the catalog prevails.