NCTA Offers New Associate of Science Degree

The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) in Curtis offers a new Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree to all students since the fall of 2005.  This A.S. Degree is an addition to the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degrees offered in four majors – Agriculture Production, Agribusiness, Veterinary Technology and Horticulture.  The A.S. Degree is available in the four majors and will require a minimum of 63 credit hours for graduation.  The A.S. Degree will allow students to be better prepared for baccalaureate work and an easy transfer to a four-year institution.

“This degree is long over due and provides our students with the same opportunities all of the two year colleges in the state currently offer in terms of a transfer program,” said Registrar, Jerry Sundquist.  “NCTA’s Associate of Science Degree will offer students the uniqueness of a transfer degree rich in agriculture, business, horticulture and veterinary technology curriculum.”

The NCTA Associate of Applied Science degrees are those that focus on the application of knowledge and skills.  Although some course work within these degrees is transferable, the degree is usually not intended for transfer to a four year institution.  Fewer general education courses are required than for the Associate of Science Degree.  The new NCTA A.S. Degree is one that focuses on the academic areas of the sciences.  A number of general education courses are required and the degree is designed to transfer to a four year institution.

“We expect 16 students enrolled in the A.S. Degree this fall and believe that number will grow to 35 or more students by 2009,” said NCTA Admissions Coordinator, Jill Koslosky.  “NCTA’s small class sizes and increased academic rigor will provide an excellent opportunity for students who wish to remain connected to agriculture while pursuing advanced degrees.

Over the past two years 34 percent of NCTA graduates planned to continue their education and earn a bachelor’s degree.  Given the increased demand for bachelor degrees in the workplace, this percentage is expected to continue rising and created the demand for the new A.S. Degree.  There are no comparable programs in the state in terms of the agriculture offerings included in the NCTA Associate of Science Degree.  NCTA is part of the University of Nebraska system and students do earn a University of Nebraska Degree.  For more information call 1-800-3CURTIS.