AA and AS core waiver

March 7, 2011

University Relations

At its February meeting, the UAF Faculty Senate approved the acceptance of certain AA and AS degrees in lieu of lower-division core requirements.  Download the pdf or review the following summary for more information

What is actually waived?

All lower-division core requirements are waived (considered to have been met).  This would include Communication (both written and oral); lower-division Perspectives on the Human Condition; Mathematics; Natural Sciences; and Library & Information Research.

What is not waived?

The upper-division requirements (Ethics, and writing/oral intensive courses) are not waived.  The student is still required to take all coursework specifically required for their major and degree.  For example, a student completing a BS degree will still have to take a calculus class and a one-year sequence of a natural science.  A person seeking a BBA will still be required to have the equivalent of Math F161X and F262X by the time they graduate.

What degrees are eligible for the core waiver?

Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees are eligible for the core waiver.  (Note that applied degrees, such as the AAS, are not.)  The degree in question must meet one of the following criteria:

·         Be from the University of Alaska;

·         Be from a community college whose degree is considered to meet general education requirements at a public university in its state (examples are community college systems in CA and AZ);

·         Be accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities;

·         Has been individually reviewed and approved by the Core Review Committee.

How do articulation (“2+2”) agreements fit into the discussion?

This change in policy opens the door for the possibility of more articulation agreements.  Articulation agreements should be faculty-driven and pursued by a Dean with counterparts at particular institutions.  The Office of Admissions and the Registrar can assist by doing research into the institution, providing boilerplate language and suggestions for transfer of credit.  Agreements must be signed by the Dean of the College or School, the Provost, and the Chancellor and copied to the Accreditation Liaison Officer and the Registrar.  They do not require approval by the Faculty Senate.