Technology and Design - AAS

S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Agriculture & Natural Resources

About This Degree

The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Technology and Design is a flexible, stackable degree designed for students with a variety of educational backgrounds.

Whether beginning their studies at Utah State University (USU) or transferring in with a certificate from a Utah technical college, students can build a customized degree that combines hands-on training with academic coursework. This program helps students earn a college credential while gaining the skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce.

Pathway Options

USU Focus Pathway: For students starting at USU, this pathway allows them to choose an area of focus and develop specialized, industry-relevant skills. Focus areas include:

  • Computer Technology
  • Manufacturing Technology
  • Technical Management

Transfer Pathway: For students who have completed a certificate at a Utah technical college, this pathway allows them to apply their certificate toward a USU associate degree. Emphasis areas include:

  • Design and Creative Arts
  • General Business
  • Health Science
  • Technology Systems

Pathway to a Bachelor's Degree: This degree sets students up to finish a bachelor’s in Technology Systems with just two more years of study—fast-tracking their path to advanced skills and career growth.

What You Will Learn

Students gain a mix of technical skills and college-level knowledge that prepares them for a wide range of careers. Whether starting at USU or transferring in with a technical college certificate, students graduate with practical experience and academic confidence.

By the time they complete the program, students will be able to:

  • Apply industry-relevant skills in areas such as computer technology, manufacturing, business, health science, or design.
  • Communicate clearly in writing and in professional settings.
  • Use digital tools and manage projects effectively.
  • Solve problems and think critically using math, science, and humanities concepts.
  • Understand social and cultural systems through general education courses.

Tailor their education with electives that support their career goals.

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ADVISING

At a Glance

College: S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Agriculture & Natural Resources

Department: Technology, Design and Technical Education Department

USU Locations:

Program Requirements

Career And Outcomes

Career Opportunities

USU Focus Pathway

  • Computer Technology: IT Support Specialist, Network Technician, Help Desk Analyst
  • Manufacturing Technology: CNC Operator, Quality Control Technician, Maintenance Technician
  • Technical Management: Project Coordinator, Operations Assistant, Technical Sales Representative

Transfer Pathway

  • Design and Creative Arts: Graphic Designer, Digital Media Assistant
  • General Business: Administrative Assistant, Customer Service Manager
  • Health Science: Medical Office Assistant, Patient Services Representative
  • Technology Systems: Systems Technician, Field Service Technician

Job Outlook

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Advising

We will build on your goals and experiences while working together to design an individualized semester-by-semester plan. Your personalized plan will help you see a path from where you are now on to graduation. Even if you are unsure of the major you would like to pursue, we can help with resources and ideas.

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I am not a current USU student

I have not applied or been admitted, even if I've taken a USU Concurrent Enrollment course

I am a current USU student

I have been admitted and plan to attend, or continue attending USU

USU Locations

LOGAN CAMPUS

STATEWIDE CAMPUSES*

USU ONLINE**

*This degree is available at various USU locations.

**This degree is 100% available online. USU is a SARA-approved institution offering fully online programs nationwide; please visit USU's state authorizations for details.

Admission

Admission Requirements

Students are admitted into this program through the university’s regular admission process.

  1. First-Year students admitted to USU in good standing (a 2.5 GPA) qualify for admission to this major.

  2. Transfer students from other institutions and from other USU majors need a 2.2 total GPA for admission to this major in good standing.

For additional information, or to complete an online application, visit: www.usu.edu/admissions/applyonline/index.cfm

Students who have completed a 900-hour program at a UCAT institution or a certificate of completion/proficiency from USU may apply to USU for admission to this program. There are four degree emphasis area for students which include: General Business, Allied Health Systems, Technology Systems, and Design and Creative Art.

Certificates of Proficiency and Completion from USU also count toward the General Technology AAS in place of a UCAT 900 hour certificate.

Program Requirements

A student will complete 15-16 credits of general education, including one course in English composition, a math course, and nine credits of breadth area courses (humanities, physical science, and economics). In addition, the student will complete an emphasis area listed above (usually 19-24 credits). The remainder of the student’s credits will be made up of transfer credits from a UCAT institution (30 credits). The minimum number of credits needed for the AAS degree is 63. A student must have an accumulated GPA of at least 2.0 in order to graduate.

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How to Apply

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