Degrees & Certificates Overview

Umpqua Community College (UCC) offers a variety of degrees and certificates to help students achieve their educational and career goals. Whether students plan to transfer to a four-year university or enter the workforce directly, UCC provides programs designed to build essential skills and knowledge.

Degree & Certificate Options

1. Transfer Degrees

These degrees allow students to complete general education and major-related coursework before transferring to a four-year university.

  • Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT)
    The AAOT satisfies general education requirements for a bachelor’s degree at any Oregon public university, allowing students to transfer with junior standing.

  • Associate of Science (AS)
    The AS degree provides flexibility for students focusing on a specific major. However, it is not a block transfer degree, meaning credits may require additional evaluation at the transfer institution.

  • Associate of General Studies (AGS)
    The AGS degree is a flexible option that allows students to combine transfer and career-related courses to create a program tailored to their interests. However, transferability of courses should be confirmed with the intended university.

  • Oregon Major Transfer Maps (MTM)
    State designed pre-planned transfer paths in specific fields like Business, Computer Science, Biology, Elementary Education, and English

Smaller General Education Blocks

In addition to full transfer degrees, UCC offers shorter general education blocks that allow students to complete transferable coursework in a focused area. These are not actual certificates but are instead a pre-determined block of general education courses. These include:

  • Core Transfer Map (CTM) – A 30-credit general education block that transfers to all Oregon public universities.
  • Oregon Transfer Module (OTM) – A 45-credit general education block that meets many transfer requirements.

2. Career & Technical Degrees & Certificates

UCC offers Career & Technical Education (CTE) degrees and certificates that provide specialized training for in-demand careers. These programs prepare students for direct entry into the workforce with industry-recognized skills.

Some of the Career & Technical programs available at UCC include:

Health Sciences

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing – Prepares students for careers as registered nurses (RN) and includes clinical training.
  • Paramedicine (AAS) – Provides EMT and advanced paramedic training for emergency medical careers.
  • Dental Assisting (Certificate) – Trains students for positions in dental offices with hands-on experience.

Business & Office Administration

  • Business Management (AAS) – Focuses on leadership, marketing, and financial skills needed for management roles.
  • Accounting (Certificate) – Covers financial reporting, bookkeeping, and tax preparation for business settings.

Technical & Industrial Training

  • Welding Technology (AAS & Certificate) – Includes hands-on training in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and fabrication.
  • Automotive Technology (AAS) – Prepares students for careers as auto technicians, with training in diagnostics and repair.
  • Mechatronics (Certificate) –  Provides hands-on training in automation, robotics, and mechanical-electrical systems for careers in advanced manufacturing and industrial technology.

Computers & Technology

  • Cybersecurity (AAS) – Focuses on IT security, network infrastructure, and ethical hacking.
  • Computer Information Systems (AAS) – Covers programming, database management, and IT support skills.

Public Safety & Emergency Services

  • Criminal Justice (AAS) – Prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and security.
  • Fire Science (AAS) – Provides firefighter training and emergency response education.

📢 Stackable Credentials: Many CTE programs offer certificate options that can be applied toward an AAS degree, allowing students to earn workforce-ready skills while progressing toward a higher credential.

Why Choose UCC?

✔ Affordable Education – Students can save money by completing the first two years of their degree at UCC before transferring.
✔ Flexible Pathways – Programs are designed for both transfer and workforce entry.
✔ Dedicated Advising – Academic advisors help students plan their courses and ensure they stay on track.
✔ Hands-On Learning – Many programs include practical experience to prepare students for real-world careers.

Planning for Success

To make the most of their education, students should meet with an academic advisor early and regularly. Advisors can assist with:

  • Choosing a degree or certificate that fits educational and career goals.
  • Ensuring courses meet transfer requirements if planning to attend a four-year university.
  • Staying updated on program requirements, which may change over time.

Important Reminder:
Students are responsible for confirming transfer policies and course requirements with their intended university. Academic advisors can provide guidance, but requirements may vary by institution.