Program Selection
A Program of Study, also called a curriculum or a college
major, is the set of courses you take in order to graduate at
Blue Ridge Community College. We have four different kinds of
programs: Associate Degree Programs, Diploma Programs,
Certificate Programs and Career Studies Certificate Programs.
You can find a complete listing of our
programs in the college catalog.
You do not need to be enrolled in a program in order to
attend Blue Ridge Community College. You can choose to just
enroll in courses. However, by enrolling in a program you ensure
that the courses you take will lead to a credential that will
assist you in getting a job or transferring to a four-year
college or university.
Types of Programs
Associate Degree Programs
An associate degree is the highest academic degree offered at
a community college. Generally it takes two years to complete if
you enroll full time. It consists of between 60 to 72 credits;
(about 20 to 25 courses). At Blue Ridge Community College we
offer two different kinds of associate degree programs:
The Associate of Arts and Sciences (AA & S) degree is
designed for students who want to transfer to a four-year
college and obtain a bachelor's degree.
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree is designed for
students who plan to enter the workforce after graduation.
Some AAS degrees also transfer to particular programs at some
four-year colleges.
Diploma Programs
A diploma program certifies your knowledge in a particular
technical career area. Generally, it takes two years to complete
if you enroll full-time. Blue Ridge Community College offers
diplomas in two technical areas: Automotive Technology and
Industrial Technology.
Certificate Programs
A certificate program provides you with expertise in a
particular career area in a relatively shorter period of time.
Generally, it takes one year to complete if you enroll
full-time. Many certificate programs are compatible with longer
associate degrees if you decide to continue your education.
Most, if not all, of your courses count toward a degree program.
Career Studies Certificate Programs
Career studies certificates are very short term programs that
offer you an introduction to a career or personal interest area.
Blue Ridge Community College offers a variety of career studies
certificates.
Undecided?
Blue Ridge Community College has several ways to help you
decide on a program of study or career field. First, we
encourage you to enroll in SDV 107, a student development course
called career education. That course assists you in examining
your personal characteristics and relating them to the world of
work. We also have career exploration software in our Career
Resource Center. Finally, our academic advisors would be happy
to meet with you and discuss your career goals in person. T
Program Enrollment
After you have completed the steps for admission, you can
complete a Curriculum Acceptance Form to officially enroll in a
program of study.
Once enrolled in a program of study you will be assigned an
academic advisor who will assist you in selecting courses each
semester until you graduate.
Program Change
You should begin by talking to your advisor. Your advisor
will want to discuss this decision with you and most likely will
need to approve the change. You will also need to go to the
Counseling Center to fill out a Curriculum Acceptance/Change
Form. |
