Whether you're starting a new career, advancing in your field, or planning to transfer, our flexible online programs provide the pathways to success. NOVA Online offers 19 Associate degrees, 4 certificate programs, and 12 career studies certificates, all designed to help you achieve your academic and career goals.
NOVA Online offers a wide variety of classes across 55 different disciplines, allowing students to pursue their academic goals with the flexibility to fit their schedules. Whether you're aiming for a degree, seeking certification, or expanding your knowledge, there's a course to meet your needs.
For students enrolled in on-campus programs, NOVA Online is an ideal way to complement your classroom experience. You can easily integrate online courses into your schedule to balance studies with other commitments, explore new subjects, or accelerate your progress.
NOVA provided us with in-person, virtual and online classes. These choices have given me a chance to spend time with my children while also doing my studies.
NOVA Online offers several degree programs to meet a variety of educational and career goals:
Associate of Science (A.S.)
The Associate of Science (A.S.) degree is designed for students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor's degree in fields like business, education, engineering, and more. The A.S. degree emphasizes the completion of general education requirements alongside foundational courses in the chosen field of study. This degree is structured to provide a seamless transfer to most four-year institutions, often with junior-level standing.
Associate of Arts (A.A.)
The Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree is focused on students who intend to transfer to a four-year college or university, particularly in the liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences. Like the A.S. degree, the A.A. provides a strong foundation in general education, along with courses that prepare students for further study in their chosen field. The A.A. degree is also designed to facilitate smooth transfer to a bachelor's degree program, especially in disciplines like English, history, psychology, and others within the liberal arts.
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree is designed for students who want to gain practical, job-specific skills that will prepare them to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. These programs focus on technical and professional disciplines, offering hands-on training and coursework that aligns with industry standards. While the A.A.S. is primarily intended for direct employment, some credits may transfer to a four-year institution, depending on the program and agreements in place.
A Certificate (C.) is awarded after completing a program of study that totals 30 to 59 credits, with at least 15% of credits in general education, including 3 credits of English (ENG) and 1 credit in Student Development (SDV). These certificates typically prepare students for specific jobs or job aspects. Some can count toward an associate degree, though most are not intended for transfer to a four-year university. The General Education Certificate is an exception, designed for transfer rather than immediate employment.
A Career Studies Certificate (C.S.C.) is awarded for completing 9 to 29 credits of career-focused courses. These programs are designed to enhance job skills, facilitate career changes, or explore new career options. Credits earned can often be applied to related certificates or degrees, though some programs are standalone.