A message from the Program Chair

The BAAS degree program is designed for the working adult who desires an opportunity to use his or her Associate's Degree, work experience, CLEP and DANTES scores, or distance learning options to complete an accredited bachelor's degree.

Let's highlight some areas that you should be familiar with prior to choosing our program. The major in our program is Applied Arts and Sciences. Students will have an opportunity to individualize the degree program through two modules in our plan,  Occupational Emphasis and Professional Development. Once you go through the degree audit report process, you will be able to better understand these modules. Students should have a 2.25 transfer GPA to enter the program.

The most important course you will take in the BAAS program is Occupational Assessment (OCED 4350). It is offered on-line, by lecture, and in video. This course requires you to build a portfolio of past experience, chart a direction in your degree plan, and provides focus for your future. Click here to learn more about OCED 4350.

Because of the writing-intensive nature of OCED 4350, we recommend that English 1310 and 1320 be completed prior to entering the program. Former student have told us that since they are developing such an important portfolio, OCED 4350 should be the only course taken the first semester. Students on financial aid, VA, or other programs may be required to take other classes along with this course. Check directly with your source of funding.

Early in your consideration of this program, it is strongly advised that you check with your potential or current employer to see if this individualized and interdisciplinary degree meets their educational requirements. By adding courses in the plan that fit the employer's needs, the degree can become a greater help toward meeting your career goals. You could also inquire whether your employer offers tuition reimbursement. If you anticipate seeking a masters degree in the future, it is also suggested that as you design your Professional Development module in the degree plan, you include any prerequisites that a University may require for a specific masters degree. You should contact specific universities for that information. Many times this information can be found on the web.

If you find the BAAS program useful, please note that we also have two master's degrees that can be individualized for your needs in an advanced degree once you receive the BAAS. All students should choose an adviser as soon as possible. There are offices in San Antonio, Round Rock, and, of course, the main campus in San Marcos. Students living in those area should access the adviser as needed. Students from remote parts of Texas or in other parts of the United States are urged to use our campus advisers.

In conclusion, welcome again to our web site. Please review the following information on the BAAS very carefully. If you still have questions on the plan you should e-mail Occupational Education or attend an orientation in Round Rock, San Antonio, or on campus in San Marcos.

Thank you,
Dr. Stephen Springer, Program Chair
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