Program Overview

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) Program

The Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) program is designed for students who have completed applied, technical, or workforce-oriented coursework. Unlike traditional degree pathways, the BAAS program allows approved vocational and technical credits to be applied toward degree completion, providing a streamlined route to earning a bachelor's degree.

How BAAS Accepts Transfer & Vocational Credit

Types of Credit Considered in the BAAS Program

• Academic (College-Level) Coursework: Academic coursework includes traditional college courses completed at accredited institutions. Examples include: COMM, ENGL, HIST, MATH. These courses are evaluated through the standard transfer credit process.
• Vocational / Technical Coursework: Vocational or technical coursework includes workforce-based education such as technical training, applied programs, and occupational studies. Examples may include:
  • Welding
  • Information Technology
  • Public Safety
  • Real Estate
  • Business and Management Vocational coursework is reviewed separately from academic coursework and follows state guidelines.

Criteria for Vocational Credit Eligibility

Vocational coursework may be considered for transfer toward the BAAS degree when it meets the following criteria:

• Listed in the Texas Workforce Education Course Manual (WECM)
• Includes college-level credit hours
• Shows a final grade
• Submitted through official transcripts

Review and Application of Vocational Credit

Vocational coursework is reviewed after admission and upon receipt of official transcripts. Approved vocational credit is applied strategically to support timely degree completion within the BAAS program. The internal review process includes:

• Evaluation of official transcripts by the BAAS academic team
• Verification of vocational coursework using the Texas Workforce system
• Application of approved vocational credit to the student record
• Vocational coursework appears on a student record only after this internal review process is complete.

Planning Support and Important Considerations

Students who have questions about how vocational or workforce coursework may apply to the BAAS degree are encouraged to seek guidance and planning support prior to admission. Additional considerations include:

• A minimum of 3 approved vocational credit hours is required for admission into the BAAS program
• Vocational credit transfers as lower-division coursework (1000/2000 level)
• Vocational credit does not count toward upper-division requirements
• Military or law enforcement training without grades or credit hours is unable to be applied toward degree requirements
• Vocational credit applies only to the BAAS degree, unless otherwise specified
• Each transcript is reviewed individually, and outcomes may vary based on coursework, credit hours, and grades

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Didn't All My Vocational Credits Apply Immediately?

Vocational credits must be reviewed individually and are applied strategically to support efficient degree completion.

Can Military or Police Academy Training Count Toward the BAAS Degree?

Some training may be eligible if it is transcripted with credit hours, includes final grades, and appears in an approved course manual. All coursework is subject to individual review and approval.

Why Do Vocational Credits Transfer as Lower-Division Credit?

Vocational coursework aligns with lower-division learning outcomes and must be applied accordingly under University and state guidelines.

Can Additional Vocational Credits Be Applied Later?

Yes. Advisors may add more vocational credits later in the degree plan if needed for program requirements.