Is A BAS Degree Marketable (Definition, Good/bad & Worth)
According to recent data, the demand for individuals with specialized technical skills and practical knowledge is increasing rapidly across various industries.
In response to this trend, the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree has emerged as a valuable educational pathway for students seeking career advancement in fields such as social and human services, mental health counseling, and community development.
This article examines whether pursuing a BAS degree is worth the investment in terms of marketability and future opportunities.
The BAS degree program offers a unique blend of theoretical coursework and hands-on learning experiences.
Students with associate degrees can further enhance their skills and knowledge through a rigorous curriculum taught by experienced faculty members.
The program also includes practical components such as internships, providing students with real-world experience and potential employment offers.
By exploring various aspects of the BAS degree, including its distinguishing features compared to traditional bachelor’s degrees, career prospects, recommended schools, and potential pathways beyond graduation, this article aims to provide an impartial analysis of whether pursuing a BAS degree is a worthwhile endeavor
Key Takeaways
- BAS programs provide a pathway for students with associate degrees to advance their education and job skills.
- The BAS degree in Applied Behavioral Science offers career opportunities in various fields, including social and human services, mental health, counseling, and community development.
- The BAS program is a well-established and accredited degree that is equivalent to traditional bachelor’s degrees and can serve as a pathway to a master’s degree.
- The BAS degree program offers a rigorous curriculum taught by accomplished faculty, small class sizes for personalized attention, and a strong practical component with required internships.
What is a BAS degree?
A Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree is a specialized program that builds on technical degrees and emphasizes hands-on learning in specific industries.
It offers students the opportunity to qualify for positions of greater scope and responsibility in fields such as social and human services, mental health/counseling, chemical dependency, youth and family support services, early childhood education/child welfare, prevention and early intervention, community development and housing, policy and advocacy.
The BAS degree provides a pathway for associate degree holders in related fields to advance their education and job skills.
It focuses on the application of community resources and adult learning to promote positive social change.
This program of study is particularly beneficial for those interested in careers such as health care management.
Who earns a BAS?
Individuals who hold associate degrees in related fields often pursue a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) to expand their knowledge and advance their careers in specific industries.
A BAS degree program offers a pathway for students with technical backgrounds to further their education and gain specialized skills.
The degree requirements typically include completing 180 credits, including transfer credits from the associate degree.
The table below provides an overview of the key aspects of a BAS degree:
| Degree Program | Applied Science |
| Bachelor | Expanding career opportunities |
| Degree Requirements | 180 credits |
| Technical Degree | Building on prior technical education |
| Associate Degree | Pathway for students with associate degrees |
| Transfer Credits | Credit transfer from previous coursework |
By pursuing a BAS degree, individuals can enhance their technical expertise and acquire industry-specific knowledge that can lead to better career outcomes.
With this foundation, graduates may qualify for positions of greater scope and responsibility in various fields such as social and human services, mental health counseling, community development, and policy advocacy.
In addition to expanding career opportunities, a BAS degree also opens doors to a wide range of exciting career paths in the human services field.
Career opportunities with a BAS
The BAS degree program in Applied Behavioral Science offers graduates a pathway to careers in diverse fields such as social and human services, mental health counseling, community development, and policy advocacy.
Here are four key career opportunities that a BAS degree can provide:
- Social and Human Services: Graduates with a BAS degree can work in various roles within social and human services organizations, providing support and assistance to individuals and communities in need.
- Mental Health Counseling: The BAS program equips students with the necessary skills to pursue careers in mental health counseling, helping individuals cope with their emotional and psychological challenges.
- Community Development: With courses focused on community development and advocacy, BAS graduates can contribute to creating positive change within communities by implementing programs and policies that address societal issues.
- Policy Advocacy: A BAS degree provides a strong foundation for individuals interested in influencing policy-making processes related to social justice issues.
These career opportunities highlight the versatility of the BAS degree program and its ability to prepare graduates for impactful roles within various sectors.
In the next section, we will explore the differences between a BAS degree and a traditional Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.
BAS vs. BS degree
When comparing the BAS program to a traditional Bachelor of Science (BS) degree, it is important to consider the specific industry focus and hands-on learning approach of the BAS program.
For example, imagine a student who is passionate about working with youth and family support services.
The BAS degree would provide them with specialized knowledge and practical experience in this field, preparing them for impactful careers in organizations dedicated to supporting families and children in need.
The BAS program emphasizes applied skills and critical thinking, equipping students with the necessary tools to address real-world challenges in their chosen industry.
Additionally, some BAS programs offer concurrent degree programs or personalized degree recommendations based on individual interests and goals.
While both BS and BAS degrees may require core courses like math, the rigor of math courses may vary depending on the program.
These factors make a BAS degree an attractive option for individuals seeking a career-focused education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application.
This preparation can also serve as prerequisites for graduate school or advanced graduate degrees.
Is a BAS degree marketable?
A BAS degree offers a specialized education in applied behavioral science, providing graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in specific industries and make a positive impact in their chosen field.
This professional degree equips students with technical skills and practical experience that are highly marketable in today’s job market.
Graduates with a BAS degree have the opportunity to pursue various career paths, as they qualify for positions of greater scope and responsibility.
The employment growth in fields related to applied behavioral science is projected to be strong.
Employers value the skill sets acquired through a BAS degree, which include problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities.
Additionally, individuals with a bachelor’s degree typically earn higher median salaries compared to high school graduates.
Online degree based on work experience
Online programs that take into account work experience can provide a convenient and flexible option for individuals looking to further their education and enhance their career prospects.
These online formats are particularly beneficial for adult students who may have work or personal obligations that prevent them from attending traditional on-campus classes.
Accredited institutions offering online degree programs ensure the quality of education and provide a rigorous academic learning experience.
One advantage of online programs is the opportunity for experiential learning, where students can apply their work experience directly to their coursework.
This allows transfer students with relevant professional backgrounds to build upon their existing knowledge and skills.
Additionally, earning a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree through an online format provides the flexibility needed for working professionals to balance their job responsibilities while pursuing higher education.
Value of a BAS degree
The value of a BAS program lies in its ability to provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen field and advance their careers.
A bachelor of applied science degree is worth it for several reasons:
- Practical Application: The BAS degree focuses on specific industries, such as healthcare management, which allows students to directly apply their learning outcomes to real-world situations.
- Career Advancement: Community college graduates can further enhance their academic experience and qualifications by pursuing a BAS degree, opening up new opportunities for higher-level positions and increased earning potential.
- Flexibility: With application dates rolling throughout the year and the availability of fully online bachelor’s programs, individuals can pursue a BAS degree at their own pace while balancing work or other commitments.
The value of a BAS degree extends beyond just obtaining a credential—it equips students with the skills needed for success in their chosen field.
How many years is an B.A.S degree?
The duration of a Bachelor of Applied Science program typically spans four years.
This undergraduate degree, also known as a B.A.S.
degree, is designed to provide students with practical knowledge and skills in a specific industry or field.
Unlike traditional bachelor’s degrees that focus on theoretical concepts, a B.A.S. degree emphasizes hands-on learning and application of knowledge.
It is considered one of the distinct degrees within the bachelor’s degree category and is sought after by individuals who want to advance their careers in fields such as social and human services, mental health counseling, youth support services, early childhood education, and more.
Degree candidates who pursue a B.A.S.
degree can expect to complete around 180 credits over the course of their program, which typically consists of eight quarters or approximately four years of full-time study.
Achieving this baccalaureate degree opens up various career opportunities for graduates in positions such as supervisors, project managers, public policy analysts, educators, and directors.
Recommended Schools for BAS degree
When considering a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S) degree, it is important to explore the recommended schools that offer this program.
Many accredited four-year universities provide academic programs in applied science, with various specializations such as healthcare management tracks.
These programs typically require an undergraduate student to complete around 180 credits.
To apply for a B.A.S degree, students usually need to submit separate application materials and meet specific admission requirements set by each university.
While selecting a school, factors like reputation, faculty expertise, and school rankings can influence the decision-making process.
It is advisable to research different universities offering B.A.S degrees and consider their accreditation status.
Additionally, individuals should evaluate if these schools provide opportunities for pursuing advanced degrees or have partnerships with graduate institutions.
Understanding the available options and making an informed decision about which university aligns best with your educational goals is crucial when deciding where to pursue your B.A.S degree.
Now let’s delve into what comes after obtaining a B.A.S degree…
What comes after B.A.S degree?
Upon completion of a B.A.S degree, individuals have the opportunity to advance their careers, gain specialized knowledge in their chosen field, and make a positive impact on society.
Many universities offer post-B.A.S programs that allow students to further develop their skills and expertise.
For example, XYZ University offers a fully online Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S) degree with various elective studies and a healthcare management track.
The application for admission is open year-round with rolling admissions, allowing flexibility for high-achieving undergraduate students.
These post-B.A.S programs focus on the application of principles and skills learned during the B.A.S program, deepening understanding and providing practical experiences in the field.
Similarity between BS and BAS degrees
There is a significant overlap in the coursework and skills gained between a Bachelor of Science (B.S) degree and a B.A.S degree.
Both programs emphasize practical application of knowledge and provide students with hands-on training in specific industries.
The B.A.S degree program offers a range of courses that are similar to those found in traditional B.S programs.
This includes core foundational courses and upper-level courses in specialized areas.
Students pursuing a B.A.S degree have the opportunity to choose from various fields of study.
They can opt for a healthcare management track or elective studies.
Additionally, some universities offer fully online bachelor’s degree options for nonresidents or those with busy schedules.
In the next section, we will explore the differences between B.S and B.A.S degrees.
Difference between BS and BAS degrees
The distinction between a Bachelor of Science (B.S) degree and a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S) degree lies in their focus and application.
While both degrees are undergraduate programs, they differ in terms of their program requirements and educational experience.
A B.S degree typically emphasizes theoretical knowledge and foundational concepts in a specific field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering.
It often includes a broad range of courses in the major field of study along with elective studies.
On the other hand, a B.A.S degree is more focused on practical application and skills development.
It is designed to provide students with specialized knowledge for specific industries or career paths.
The curriculum includes coursework that directly relates to real-world scenarios and hands-on learning experiences.
In summary, while both degrees offer valuable educational opportunities, the key difference lies in their emphasis on theoretical knowledge versus practical application.
Students should consider their career goals and preferred learning style when deciding between a B.S or B.A.S degree program.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree offers a valuable pathway for individuals with associate degrees to advance their careers in various industries.
With its focus on hands-on learning and practical components such as internships, the BAS degree equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge for employment opportunities.
Additionally, the BAS degree is accredited and equivalent to traditional bachelor’s degrees, allowing for further education at the graduate level.
Embarking on a BAS degree program can open doors to success and professional growth.
