Associate Degree

Associate Degree - Definition and Requirements:
- NYSED stipulates that: Associate degree programs shall normally be capable of completion in two academic years of full-time study, or its equivalent in part-time study, with an accumulation of not less than 60 semester credit hours.
- Minimum Credit Hours:
  - AAS: 60 semester credit hours
  - AS: 60 semester credit hours
- Faculty Requirements:
  - Faculty members teaching at the certificate, associate degree, and baccalaureate levels must hold at least a master’s degree in an appropriate field and have the background for in-depth teaching, curriculum development, and program evaluation responsibilities.
  - Certain occupational specializations may merit demonstration of competence alternative to a master’s degree. In all institutions, faculty with master’s degrees and beyond, and with substantial collective experience in college teaching and academic administration should be strongly predominant.
  - At least one faculty member teaching in each curriculum at the baccalaureate level must hold an earned doctorate in the discipline of the major of the proposed program.

Rochester Institute of Technology
One Lomb Memorial Drive
Rochester, NY 14623-5603