{
  "college": "cuesta-college",
  "edition": "2026-2027",
  "departmentName": "Degree & Certificate Info",
  "id": "degree-certificate-info-program",
  "name": "Degree & Certificate Info",
  "award": "Program",
  "department": "degree-certificate-info",
  "sourceUrl": "https://cuesta.curriqunet.com/catalog/iq/30065/30066/32526",
  "blocks": [
    {
      "kind": "text",
      "markdown": "## Degree & Certificate Info\n\n#### Types of Degrees & Certificates\n\nStudents who complete an **Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT)** and transfer to a similar major at a CSU are guaranteed a pathway to finish their baccalaureate degrees in 60 semester or 90 quarter units. These degrees require students to meet both of the following requirements: (1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following: (A) California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC). (B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district. (2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.\n\nAn **Associate Degree**, depending on the focus of study, is designed to prepare students for transfer into upper division course work in a bachelor’s degree program, or, to prepare students to enter the workforce in a particular vocational field. To qualify for an Associate’s Degree, a student must: (1) complete each major-specific course required for the degree with at least a “C” grade or better, (2) complete all Cuesta College general education, graduation and residency requirements, and (3) achieve an overall grade point average of 2.0 for all courses attempted (major, general education, elective).\n\nA **Certificate Program** is designed for students who desire specific training to meet an immediate occupational or personal goal, or for promotion or lateral transfer within their existing field of employment. To qualify for a **Certificate of Achievement** or a **Certificate of Specialization**, a student must 1) complete all courses required for the Certificate with an overall grade point average of 2.0.\n\nPursuant to Title 5, § 55151, students completing **noncredit** courses in a prescribed pathway, chaptered by the Chancellor’s Office, that prepares students to take non-degree-applicable credit coursework, including basic skills and English as a Second Language (ESL), or to take degree- applicable credit coursework leading to completion of a credit certificate, an associate of arts degree, or transfer to a baccalaureate institution, a **Certificate of Competency** may be awarded. A noncredit Certificate of Competency is a document confirming that a student enrolled in a noncredit educational program of noncredit courses has demonstrated achievement in a set of competencies that prepares the student to progress in a career path or to undertake degree-applicable or non-degree-applicable credit courses (CCR, Title 5, §55151(i)).\n\nPursuant to Title 5, § 55151, students completing **noncredit** courses in a prescribed pathway, chaptered by the Chancellor’s Office, leading to improved employability or job opportunities, a **Certificate of Completion** may be awarded. A noncredit Certificate of Completion is a document confirming that a student has completed a noncredit educational program of noncredit courses that prepares the student to progress in a career path or to take degree- applicable credit courses (CCR, Title 5 §55151(h)).\n\n#### Transfer Preparation\n\nCourses that fulfill major requirements for an associate degree may differ from those needed to prepare to transfer. Students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university should schedule an appointment with a Cuesta College counselor to develop a student education plan (SEP) before beginning their program.\n\n##### Transfer Resources:\n\nCSU and UC Articulation Agreements and Majors Search Engine -- ASSIST website. (https://www.assist.org)\n\nCSU System Information website. (https://www.calstate.edu)\n\n#### Financial Aid\n\nPaying for the cost of a college education requires a partnership among parents, students and the college. As the cost of higher education continues to rise we want you to know that Cuesta College offers a full array of financial aid programs — grants, work study, scholarships, federal loan programs, and fee waivers. These programs are available to both full-and part-time students who are seeking a degree or certificate. For those who qualify, financial aid is available to help with tuition, fees, books and supplies, food, housing, transportation, and childcare. Please log onto the financial aid website for additional information. (https://www.cuesta.edu/become-student/finaid/index.html)"
    }
  ]
}