What is the difference between an AS and an AA degree?
An AS degree, also called an Associate of Science degree, is awarded for majors that are vocational or technical in nature. An AA degree, or Associate of Arts degree, is awarded for majors that are considered liberal arts related. General education requirements are the same for both the AA and AS degrees offered at Skyline College.

I've attended other community colleges and universities. Can I use this course work to fulfill associate degree requirements or transfer requirements?
Yes, it is very likely that you have met some degree or transfer requirements. Be sure to request a copy of your transcript from your previous schools and have them sent to the Admissions and Records office at Skyline. Please remember to obtain a copy of the transcript for yourself and bring it to your counseling appointment so that your counselor can help you determine what requirements you may have met.

Do I need a major to get an associate degree? Can I just complete the general education requirements and still get a degree?
You must complete the requirements for a specific major in order to graduate with an Associate Degree. See the complete list of associate degree majors available at Skyline. Students interested in a more general major often choose the Interdisciplinary Studies major. Students planning to transfer to four-year universities may wish to explore the Interdisciplinary Studies major. Detailed information about major requirements can be found in the Skyline College Catalog and on the Counseling website. Talk with your counselor to see which major best fits your personal goals.

If I get an AA or AS from Skyline, can I automatically transfer to a 4-year college?
No, the completion of an Associate degree does not automatically meet all of the requirements for transfer to a 4-year college or university. However, if you select classes carefully, it is possible to meet both Associate degree requirements and transfer requirements at the same time. Your counselor can assist you in the selection of appropriate courses.

See the current placement test and orientation schedules.

What is a SEP and how do I know if I need one?
A SEP or Student Educational Plan is like a personal map that you develop with your counselor. The SEP "map" is designed to outline what courses you should complete semester by semester in order to successfully meet your educational goal. If you have an educational goal, you should meet with your counselor regularly to develop and update your SEP. Students with a current SEP on file are provided with priority registration.

Do I need to make an appointment for a SEP or can I just drop in?
Yes, you should arrange a 30-minute counseling appointment to insure the best possible advising and planning for a SEP. Often, the questions raised in exploring your educational goals require more time than is allowed in a short drop-in visit.

Can I just take my general education requirements at Skyline, then take my major courses after I transfer?
Many majors have lower division prerequisites or requirements that must be completed prior to transfer. You will save time and money by completing them before you transfer. If you are applying to a competitive college or major, the completion of major courses will greatly increase your chances of being accepted.

Aside from the general education requirements for transfer, how do I know if I have met the requirements for my major?
Project Assist provides information on current articulation agreements between Skyline College and many of the 4-year colleges and universities in California. Additional information and assistance is available through your counselor and the Transfer Center.

Should I get an associate degree if I intend to transfer?
Although an Associate degree is not required for transfer, many students find that it is personally beneficial to have a college degree on their record. Students who have completed all of their requirements for transfer may have completed most, if not all, of the requirements for an Associate degree as well.

What are the differences between the UC, CSU, and independent college systems? How do I decide which one is best for me?
Colleges and universities can vary greatly in the type of majors offered, requirements, and educational philosophies.

Your counselor can assist you in choosing the college or university that best fits your educational goals and personal situation. Information is also available at the Transfer Center. You may also explore the UC campuses and CSU mentor.

How do I get final grades each semester?
Final grades are not mailed to students. You may obtain your grades online at WebSMART. .

If you need a printed copy, you may request one at the Admissions and Records office.

What should I do if I disagree with a grade that I receive?
You should make an appointment with your instructor to make sure that the grade recorded is correct and to understand the reasons why you received the grade. If, after you have contacted the instructor, you still disagree with the grade, you may follow the grievance and appeals policy outlined in the Student Handbook.

Can I get bad grades removed from my record?
No. Grades are never removed from your official college transcript. However, a student who has earned a grade of D or F at any college in the San Mateo County Community College district may repeat the same course once at any college in the district. If the student receives a C or better, then the previous D or F grade will no longer be calculated into the student's grade point average.

In addition, some students may qualify for Academic Renewal. The policy is outlined in the College Catalog.

What does it mean if I am notified that I have been placed on academic probation?
Students are placed on academic probation if their cumulative grade point average is below 2.0 (C average) or if 50% or more of their total units are recorded on their college transcript as W (withdrawal), I (incomplete), or NC (no credit). The Counseling Department has developed the Student Success Program to assist those who have been placed on academic probation.

What should I do if I am having difficulty deciding on a major or career goal?
The Career Center is a good place to begin exploring different majors or careers. You may also choose to take a course such as CRER 136 or CRER 137 (career and life planning) to help you make an informed decision. Your counselor can also assist you through the decision-making process.

If I'm a student at a 4-year college or university, can I take classes at Skyline?
Yes. You should check with your college or university to determine whether the courses you take at Skyline will meet your particular college or program requirements

Will I be charged more for classes if I have already completed a college degree?
No. Tuition is not based upon previous coursework or degrees.