The Associate in Arts in General Studies is an interdisciplinary degree, that allows students to choose the general education pattern that aligns with their educational goal, whether that is to complete the AA or to transfer, and also allows students to choose an area of emphasis for their focus.  

Pattern I

Pattern I of the General Studies with an area of emphasis covers a broad area of study and is intended for students who may not be planning to transfer to a four-year university or who may need to explore possibilities before committing themselves to a major. 

Pattern II and Pattern III

Pattern II of the General Studies with an area of emphasis is designed for students who are planning to transfer to a four-year university in high-unit majors or when completion of the CSU GE-Breadth or IGETC patterns is not appropriate or advisable. (See www.assist.orgor a college counselor for guidance.) Independent or out-of-state universities may also fall in this category. 

Pattern III of the General Studies with an area of emphasis is intended for students who are planning to transfer to a California public university (UC or CSU) where an ADT is not available or accepted in their chosen major or does not provide adequate preparation. This pattern requires the CSU GE-Breadth or IGETC to fulfill lower-division general education.