What is an MDC Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree?
An Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree from Miami Dade College (MDC) is a two-year academic program designed to equip students with a solid foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. It provides a broad knowledge base and critical thinking skills that prepare students for further education or a career in a variety of fields.
Benefits of an MDC Associate in Arts Degree
- Cost-effective: An A.A. degree from MDC is significantly more affordable than a bachelor’s degree, making it a great option for students on a budget.
- Flexible: The A.A. program can be completed in as little as two years, allowing students to enter the workforce or continue their education quickly.
- Versatile: An A.A. degree provides a foundation for a wide range of career paths, including business, healthcare, education, and social services.
- Transferable: MDC has articulation agreements with over 100 colleges and universities, making it easy for A.A. graduates to transfer credits and continue their education.
Curriculum
The A.A. curriculum at MDC includes courses in:
- Communication: Writing, speaking, and critical thinking
- Mathematics: Mathematical reasoning and problem-solving
- Social Sciences: History, sociology, anthropology, and psychology
- Natural Sciences: Biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science
- Humanities: Literature, art, music, and philosophy
Career Outlook
Graduates with an A.A. degree from MDC are in high demand in a variety of industries. Some common career paths include:
- Administrative assistant
- Customer service representative
- Healthcare technician
- Teacher assistant
- Social worker
How to Apply
To apply for the MDC Associate in Arts program, you must:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Submit an online application
- Pay an application fee
- Submit official transcripts from all previous schools
Financial Aid
MDC offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for college, including:
- Scholarships: Grants that do not have to be repaid
- Loans: Funds that must be repaid over time
- Work-study: Jobs that allow students to earn money while attending school
Real-World Applications
The MDC A.A. degree provides a foundation for a wide range of careers and applications. Here are a few examples:
- An A.A. graduate with a focus on healthcare could become a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or medical assistant.
- An A.A. graduate with a focus on business could become an administrative assistant or project coordinator.
- An A.A. graduate with a focus on social sciences could become a social worker or community organizer.
Conclusion
An Associate in Arts degree from Miami Dade College is a valuable stepping stone to success in a variety of fields. It provides a broad knowledge base, critical thinking skills, and practical experience that prepare students for further education or a rewarding career.
Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the cost of an A.A. degree from MDC?
The cost of an A.A. degree from MDC varies depending on the student’s residency status and the number of credits taken. For Florida residents, tuition ranges from $126 to $154 per credit hour. For non-Florida residents, tuition ranges from $278 to $327 per credit hour.
- How long does it take to earn an A.A. degree from MDC?
The A.A. program can be completed in as little as two years of full-time study. Part-time students may take longer to complete the program.
- What are the prerequisites for the A.A. program?
To be admitted to the A.A. program, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some courses may have additional prerequisites.
- What are the job outlook and salary expectations for A.A. graduates?
The job outlook for A.A. graduates is generally positive. The median annual salary for A.A. graduates is around $45,000. However, salaries can vary depending on the specific field of study and experience.
Tables
Table 1: Enrollment at MDC
| Year | Enrollment |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 165,974 |
| 2019 | 170,233 |
| 2020 | 168,341 |
| 2021 | 165,123 |
Table 2: Cost of Tuition at MDC
| Residency | Tuition per Credit Hour |
|---|---|
| Florida resident | $126 to $154 |
| Non-Florida resident | $278 to $327 |
Table 3: Graduation Rates at MDC
| Year | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 58% |
| 2019 | 59% |
| 2020 | 60% |
| 2021 | 61% |
Table 4: Job Outlook for A.A. Graduates
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary | Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative assistant | $41,000 | 6% |
| Customer service representative | $36,000 | 7% |
| Healthcare technician | $37,000 | 15% |
| Teacher assistant | $29,000 | 8% |
| Social worker | $49,000 | 12% |
