Oakton offers a wide range of vocational and technical courses designed for students who want to upgrade their job skills or who are seeking short-term programs to prepare for immediate entrance into the work force. Students can complete formal, 2-year programs (A.A.S. degrees) or certificates, or select only those courses that would be useful for their career goals. Associate in Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) A.A.S. degrees require successful completion of approximately 60 credit hours. The major portion of an A.A.S. degree consists of skill-specific courses that provide the knowledge and skills required in a career field. In addition to the major (skill-specific) courses, an A.A.S. degree requires a minimum of 18 hours of general education courses that give students a general background in communications, math and/or science, humanities/fine arts, social and behavioral science, and global studies. Certificates Oakton also offers career certificate programs that give students options for quicker paths toward career preparation. Though career certificates vary in length, they consist only of skill-specific courses and do not require general education courses. It is important to note that A.A.S. degrees and career certificates are not necessarily intended for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. Though some career courses and programs may transfer to particular colleges, students who plan on transferring should look at Oakton's Transfer Programs and/or make an appointment with an advisor to discuss transfer options. Career degrees and/or certificates offered:   Accounting Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology Automotive Service Excellence Automotive Technology (Apprenticeship) Computer Applications for Business Computer Information Systems Computer Networking Construction Management Early Childhood Education Education Electronics and Computer Technology Facilities Management and Engineering Financial Services Fire Science Technology Graphic Design Health Information Technology**   Human Services International Trade Law Enforcement Machine Technology (Apprenticeship) Management and Supervision Manufacturing Technology Marketing Management Mechanical Design/CAD Medical Laboratory Technology** Nursing, Associate Degree** Nursing, Basic Nurse Assistant Training Pharmacy Technician Phlebotomy** Physical Therapist Assistant** Real Estate Substance Abuse Counseling World Wide Web ** Denotes our Limited Enrollment Health Programs. These programs accept a limited number of students for admission each academic year and require an additional application form. See the departmental web site listed above or contact the Office of Admission and Enrollment for more information about enrollment in these programs.