Liberal Arts (AA)

Associate of Arts (AA)

The Associate of Arts is conferred upon students who have satisfactorily completed a minimum of 60 semester hours of academic work. Liberal Arts is the area of concentration. This program is designed to provide students with a solid introduction to the subject matter. It also provides a seamless transition into the Bachelor of Arts degree program. The Liberal Arts (AA) program is only available as a part-time evening option.

Learning Outcomes for Liberal Arts (AA)

• Articulate concepts from a broad background of information in liberal arts
• Identify, describe, and analyze key concepts of human behavior, social influences and societal issues
• Compare and contrast key concepts in a complex world and identify interdependencies
• Articulate clearly and succinctly one’s thoughts to others, both orally and in written form

Major Requirements

• ENG1200 or ENG1201: Introduction to Academic or English Composition I
• ENG1202: Analytical Writing
• ENGXXXX: Literature
• Scientific Perspectives and Inquiry: Four (4) credits from General Education Requirements
• Civic and Social Responsibility: Twelve (12) credits from General Education Requirement
• Human Culture and Expression: Twelve (12) credits from General Education Requirements
• MIS2310: Introduction to Management Information Systems
• Electives: Twenty-one (21) general electives

Course Descriptions

ENG1201 - English Composition (3)

English Composition 1201 is a writing-intensive course that prepares students for all levels of academic discourse. Emphasis is placed on the art of persuasion, on the development of students’ critical thinking skills, and on key rhetorical concepts such as audience, purpose, and voice. Students learn the various steps to the writing process, from brainstorming to final revision, and learn the importance of writing coherent, unified, and organized essays that are fundamentally and mechanically sound. Though primarily a writing course, English Composition 101 also helps students see the connection between reading and writing. In addition, students learn the art of academic research and documentation. ENG1201 is determined by performance on a placement test or by satisfactory completion of ENG1100.

ENG1202 - Analytical Writing (3)

ENG1202 is an advanced writing course and is designed to extend reading and writing skills developed in English 1201. Emphasis is placed on critical and analytical writing and the analysis and interpretation of texts. Students are exposed to a variety of texts from fields across the curriculum. They write essays in response to what they read by formulating and defending a thesis, by synthesizing sources, and by evaluating information and ideas from multiple perspectives. In addition, students demonstrate an ability to do research and to document their work in the major academic styles.

MIS2310 - Introduction to Management Information Systems (3)

This course provides an introduction to information systems from a business point of view. Subjects to be covered include: terminology, a survey of hardware and software, introduction to systems analysis and design, as well as an overview of the college’s computer facilities. This meets the requirement as a writing intensive course in the major. PREREQUISITE: None

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Liberal Arts from American International College is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the liberal arts, preparing them for further study in a bachelor's degree program or for entry-level positions in various fields. The program is offered as a part-time evening option, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments.

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Objectives:

• To provide students with a broad understanding of the liberal arts, including literature, history, philosophy, and the social sciences.
• To develop students' critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.
• To prepare students for success in further academic pursuits or in the workforce.

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Program Description:

The Liberal Arts (AA) program consists of 60 semester hours of coursework, including:

• Major Requirements:
• ENG1200 or ENG1201: Introduction to Academic or English Composition I
• ENG1202: Analytical Writing
• ENGXXXX: Literature
• Scientific Perspectives and Inquiry: Four (4) credits from General Education Requirements
• Civic and Social Responsibility: Twelve (12) credits from General Education Requirement
• Human Culture and Expression: Twelve (12) credits from General Education Requirements
• MIS2310: Introduction to Management Information Systems
• Electives: Twenty-one (21) general electives

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Outline:

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Course Schedule:

The Liberal Arts (AA) program is offered as a part-time evening option, with classes typically meeting once or twice per week. The program can be completed in approximately two years of part-time study.

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Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• ENG1201 - English Composition (3): This course prepares students for academic discourse, emphasizing persuasion, critical thinking, and rhetorical concepts.
Students learn the writing process and develop coherent, unified, and organized essays.
• ENG1202 - Analytical Writing (3): This advanced writing course extends skills developed in ENG1201, focusing on critical and analytical writing.
Students analyze texts, formulate and defend theses, synthesize sources, and evaluate information from multiple perspectives.
• MIS2310 - Introduction to Management Information Systems (3): This course introduces information systems from a business perspective, covering terminology, hardware and software, systems analysis and design, and the college's computer facilities.
It meets the requirement as a writing-intensive course in the major.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

Students in the Liberal Arts (AA) program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams
• Quizzes
• Papers
• Presentations
• Projects

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Assessment Criteria:

Students are evaluated based on their:

• Knowledge of the subject matter
• Critical thinking skills
• Analytical skills
• Communication skills
• Writing skills

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The Liberal Arts (AA) program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Group work
• Presentations
• Hands-on activities

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Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. Faculty members are committed to providing students with a high-quality education and are available to provide support and guidance.

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Unique Approaches:

The Liberal Arts (AA) program at American International College offers several unique approaches to teaching and learning, including:

• Small class sizes: Classes are typically small, allowing for personalized attention from faculty members.
• Evening classes: The program is offered as a part-time evening option, providing flexibility for students with other commitments.
• Writing-intensive courses: Several courses in the program are designated as writing-intensive, providing students with ample opportunities to develop their writing skills.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the Liberal Arts (AA) program are prepared for a variety of careers in fields such as:

• Education
• Business
• Government
• Non-profit organizations
• Healthcare

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Opportunities and Outcomes:

The Liberal Arts (AA) degree provides students with a strong foundation for further study or for entry-level positions in various fields. Graduates are well-prepared for success in a rapidly changing job market.

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Overview:

American International College (AIC) is a private, coeducational institution founded in 1885. It is located in Springfield, Massachusetts, and has a long history of providing quality education and fostering a strong sense of community.

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Services Offered:

AIC offers a range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

The college provides academic support services such as tutoring, mentoring, and disability accommodations through the Center for Accessibility Services and Academic Accommodations (CASAA).

Student Success and Support:

AIC offers various resources to help students succeed, including career development services, student activities, and leadership programs.

Campus Recreation:

Students have access to the Falconer Fitness Center, intramural sports, and club sports.

Library:

The Shea Library provides students with access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.

Campus Store:

The campus store offers a variety of goods and services to students, including textbooks, clothing, and snacks.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

AIC strives to create a welcoming and inclusive campus environment where students can thrive. Students can expect:

Active Student Life:

The college encourages students to get involved in various activities, including student organizations, sports teams, and leadership programs.

Strong Community:

AIC fosters a strong sense of community among its students, faculty, and staff.

On-Campus Housing:

The college offers a variety of housing options for students, including residence halls and apartments.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Supportive Learning Environment:

AIC provides a supportive learning environment with a focus on student success.

Diverse Academic Programs:

The college offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Strong Career Development Services:

AIC helps students prepare for their future careers through its career development services.

Active Campus Life:

Students have ample opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities and build a strong sense of community.

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Academic Programs:

AIC offers over 40 undergraduate majors and 22 graduate programs. Some of the key academic programs and strengths of the institution include:

School of Business, Arts & Sciences:

This school offers a variety of programs in business, arts, and sciences, including accounting, marketing, psychology, and criminal justice.

School of Health Sciences:

This school offers programs in health sciences, including nursing, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.

School of Education:

This school offers programs in education, including educational studies and teacher certification.

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Other: