Educational Programs

General Education Philosophy

Pikes Peak State College believes that general education is important for student development. As stated by the Colorado Community College System, “general education is ‘general’ in several clearly identifiable ways: it is not directly related to a student’s formal, technical, vocational, or professional preparation; it is part of every student’s course of study, regardless of emphasis” (SP9-30a). The intent of general education is to provide students with the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills related to written communication, quantitative literacy, creative thinking, critical thinking, oral/presentational communication, information literacy, civic engagement, diversity and global learning, inquiry and analysis, and problem solving.

Degree and Certificate Options

AA/AS Degrees with Designation

A Degree with Designation (DwD) is part of a statewide transfer agreement in the Colorado Community College System. This agreement is shared by Colorado community colleges and four-year colleges and universities. 

With a Degree with Designation, you can: 

  • Earn a 60-credit Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree in a specific field (such as Business) 
  • Transfer to a university with junior status 
  • Complete your bachelor’s degree in no more than 60 additional credits (120 credits total), unless an approved exception exists

If you attend full-time (15 credits per semester), do not need developmental courses, and follow the recommended plan, you can finish your bachelor’s degree in four years.

AA/AS Degrees Without Designation

Some AA and AS degree programs are not part of the statewide transfer agreements. These degrees will be listed as Associate of Arts or Associate of Science without a discipline designation. 


These degrees may still transfer through individual agreements between community colleges and universities. Students should meet with an academic or faculty advisor to understand transfer options. 

Examples of disciplines without a Degree with Designation include: 

  • Allied Health
  • Environmental Sustainability Studies 
  • Humanities 
  • Professional Writing 
  • Social Work 

Associate of General Studies (AGS) Degree 

The Associate of General Studies (AGS) degree offers the most flexibility. It allows students to combine career and transfer courses. Some credits may not transfer. 

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degrees and Certificates 

AAS degrees and certificate programs are designed to prepare students to enter the workforce. These programs are part of Career and Technical Education.

Associate of Engineering Science (AES) Degree

The Associate of Engineering Science (AES) degree is for students who plan to continue into a four-year engineering program. 

Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) Degree 

The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree is designed for students seeking career advancement in specific workforce fields. This degree primarily serves students who have completed an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree or a related certificate. 

BAS programs build upon the curriculum of an AAS degree and are often considered “stackable” degrees. All technical and general education coursework completed in an AAS degree applies toward BAS degree requirements.

Because general education requirements vary among AAS degrees, PPSC provides flexibility in structuring these requirements. All general education courses completed as part of an AAS degree count toward the BAS general education requirements. 

The BAS degree follows a true 2+2 format and supports workforce advancement and leadership development. 

BAS Degree Requirements 

  • Total of 120 credit hours 
  • At least 30 credits must be completed at PPSC 
  • Admission requirements may vary by program 
  • Academic advising is strongly recommended 

Prerequisite: Completion of an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in the appropriate field. 

General Education and GT Pathways 

All degree programs include General Education coursework that supports a well-rounded education. 

All AA and AS degrees include State-Guaranteed General Education Transfer courses, known as GT Pathways. Students who earn a grade of C- or higher in GT Pathways courses are guaranteed transfer to all public Colorado colleges and universities. These courses apply to GT Pathways requirements in AA, AS, and many bachelor’s degree programs.

GT Pathways does not apply to all degrees. Students should consult with an advisor at their current or intended transfer institution to ensure coursework meets degree requirements.

For additional information, refer to the Guaranteed Transfer (GT) Pathways General Education Curriculum on the GT Pathways General Education Curriculum webpage.

Degree Eligibility

Students who earn an Associate of General Studies (AGS) degree may later pursue an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Students who earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree may later pursue an AA, AS, or AGS degree.

Students who complete the requirements for an AA or AS degree at PPSC are not eligible to earn an AGS degree afterward. 

PPSC will accept up to 45 applicable credits toward a second degree or certificate. Students who have already earned an associate degree or higher from an accredited institution are generally not eligible to earn another associate degree from PPSC in the same or a closely related program. Students may request an appeal to be considered for an exception.

College Preparatory Programs

Purpose and Goals

To maximize student success, PPSC provides college preparatory courses so students can be assured they are prepared to begin their course of study. Students enroll in college preparatory courses in mathematics and/or English to support their work in college-level courses as well as for personal enrichment.

Students who place into college prep courses in mathematics and/or English are encouraged to complete college preparatory courses within the first 30 semester credit hours. Students who have not completed college preparatory courses and have completed 30 or more semester credit hours are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor before registering for additional coursework.

English Preparatory Program

College Preparatory English courses cover basic writing and grammar. These courses are a good refresher for students who have not written college reports or essays. The writing courses help students to express their thoughts in complete sentences, organized paragraphs, and whole compositions.

Students using Veterans Affairs education benefits should consult with Military and Veterans Programs for specific requirements prior to registering for these courses.

Mathematics Preparatory Program

College preparatory mathematics courses prepare students for college-level mathematics courses or entry into many occupational programs. Enrollment is based on the math pathway needed for a student’s desired degree program.

Students using Veterans Affairs education benefits should consult with Military and Veterans Programs for specific requirements prior to registering for these courses.

English as a Second Language Preparatory Program

Centennial • F-200 • 719-502-3535

English as a Second Language (ESL) is located at the Centennial Campus. It is a semi-intensive program, designed to meet the needs of non-native English speakers. ESL serves students who wish to improve their English reading, writing, and speaking skills. Many ESL students plan to attend an American college or university or need to improve their English skills for the workplace.

Any student who is interested in taking ESL courses must take the ESL placement exam. Non-native speakers of English who cannot demonstrate College Reading & Writing Literacy should take the ESL placement exam and be advised by an ESL advisor.

English as a Second Language has three levels of study: basic, intermediate, and advanced. ESL courses include grammar, pronunciation, composition, reading, and listening/speaking. Full-time students may complete coursework in ESL in three semesters.

For more information about English as a Second Language at Pikes Peak State College, visit our ESL webpage or call 719-502-3535.

Basic Level

ESL 0021Basic Grammar5
ESL 0031Basic Listening & Speaking4
ESL 0041Basic Reading4
Total Hours13

Intermediate Level

ESL 0022Intermediate Grammar5
ESL 0032Intermediate Listening & Speaking4
or ESL 0042 Intermediate Reading
ESL 0052Intermediate Composition4
Total Hours13

Advanced Level

ESL 0023Advanced Grammar5
ESL 0043Advanced Reading4
ESL 0053Advanced Composition4
Total Hours13

Additional electives can be taken at any time after Basic Level. These electives do not count toward level completion in English as a Second Language.

ESL 0011Basic Pronunciation3
ESL 0012Intermediate Pronunciation3

Class Format Options

PPSC offers a variety of learning options for students including traditional (classroom-based), online, and alternate deliveries. View the Class Format Options webpage to review options.

Online and alternative delivery classes meet the same class outcomes as their traditional counterparts and are subject to the same transfer agreements. In addition, there are transfer agreements with colleges both in-state and out-of-state that offer baccalaureate completion programs using distance/electronic technology.

Traditional Classes

Classroom-based, face-to-face classes that meet on campus at pre-determined times.

Online Classes

Classes are entirely online with no real-time expectations. Classes may be taken using computers at home or computers at PPSC. Internet access is required.

PPSC CO Online @ Consortium (Sections CZ1, CZ2, CZ4, CZ5)

Courses are offered through a consortium of thirteen community colleges in Colorado. Students will register as a PPSC student, but an instructor may teach class from any of the thirteen colleges. For more information regarding CO Online classes view the Colorado Online webpage. 

PPSC CO Online @ PPSC (Sections 1N1, 2N1, 3N1, Etc.)

PPSC online class taught by PPSC instructors. If you are interested in registering for a CO Online @ PPSC Online class, look for sections with an N in the section number (for example, BUS 115-1N1).

1N* sections are Full semester courses
2N* sections are 1st Bi-Semester courses
3N* sections are 2nd Bi-Semester courses
4N* sections are Late Start courses

Hybrid Classes (Sections 1H1, 2H1, 3H1, Etc.)

Part online, part in the classroom. Hybrid courses are courses that combine on-campus classroom instruction with online learning components and/or out-of-class activities. Hybrid learning is for students who wish to combine the flexibility of face-to-face instruction with activities such as online collaborative discussions, group projects, and/or other out-of-class assignments. In a Hybrid class, traditional face-to-face instruction will be reduced but not eliminated. Internet access is required for the online class activities.

If you are interested in registering for a Hybrid class, look for sections with an H in the section number (for example, BUS 115 1H1).

1H* sections meet at Centennial Campus
2H* sections meet at Rampart Range Campus
3H* sections meet at the Downtown Studio Campus
9H* sections meet at various Military installations

Hyflex Classes

A highly flexible experience where the class is delivered entirely remotely in real-time, entirely in person in real-time, or a combination of the two. For Hyflex with Lab classes, lab will require in-person attendance.

Remote Classes

Class will be taught in real-time with 100% remote delivery at pre-determined times. There is no scheduled in person attendance. Class will be 100% real-time live meetings delivered remotely via technology.

If you are interested in registering for a Remote Class, look for sections with a V in the section number (for examples, BUS 1151V1).

1V* sections are Full semester courses
2V* sections are Bi-Semester courses
3V* sections are Tri-Semester courses
4V* sections are Late Start courses

Online Programs

At PPSC, we offer a growing number of associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and certificate programs that can be completed fully online. For a full list of programs that are offered fully online, view the Online Degrees and Certificates webpage.

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

Students may earn credit for learning outside the classroom. Prior Learning Assessment must apply to a declared degree or certificate. Credit will be evaluated for:

  • portfolio: learning through experiences such as reading and study, work, and on-the-job training or special classes
  • standardized testing: a satisfactory score on nationally accepted tests such as CLEP and DSST
  • Institutional Challenge Exam: institutional exams developed by faculty that are typically the equivalent of a comprehensive final exam and may include a skills demonstration to assess mastery of the competencies required for the CCNS course being challenged
  • published guide: learning given in a nontraditional setting such as a military or industry classroom which must be evaluated in a published guide by a nationally known organization such as the American Council on Education (ACE)

PPSC evaluates prior learning through the Prior Learning Assessment program (PLA). Students may receive up to 75 percent of their total credits for all types of prior learning.

Students who wish to receive credit for prior learning and plan to transfer to another college or university should verify these credits will transfer. Policies on awarding transfer credit vary from institution to institution.

For more information, email the Division of Prior Learning or call 719-502-3000. Military and Veteran students, email the Department of Military & Veterans Programs.

Independent Study Courses

Extended learning options may be offered for students who cannot come to the PPSC campus or cannot attend courses that are scheduled for a standard semester. Learning options available for both regular curriculum and special contract programs include independent study.

College credit can be awarded for these courses.

Students receiving financial aid are cautioned to contact Enrollment Services when registering for independent study courses.

Service Learning

Service Learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with course content and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach social and civic responsibility, and strengthen communities. Service learning is fully integrated into a formal academic course. For additional information and to see a current list of classes offered view our Service Learning webpage. 

Options for Current High School Students

Centennial • A-220 • 719-502-3111

Career Start

High school juniors and seniors may enroll in Career Start which provides career and technical training in the program areas listed below. Career Start is a cohort program that enrolls students into Pikes Peak State courses applicable to a career pathway for college and high school credit. Classes are in person on the Centennial Campus from 9-11:40 a.m., Monday through Friday and follow a Career Start specific calendar.

Career Start Programs

  • Automotive Collision Technology
  • Automotive Technology
  • Behavioral Health
  • Broadcasting and Electronic Media
  • Building and Construction Technology
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
  • Criminal Justice
  • Culinary Arts
  • Cybersecurity
  • Diesel Technology
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Emergency Medical Technician
  • Fire Science Technology
  • Medical & Office Pathway (Records, Reception, and Billing and Coding)
  • Multimedia Graphic Design
  • Veterinary Assisting
  • Welding
  • Zoo Keeping Technology

Students enroll in the Career Start as part of their daily high school schedule. School districts under contract pay the costs of this program. The Career Start program delivers career and technical education that provides each student with the concepts, academic and technical competencies, career skills, attitudes, and work habits essential to gain entry-level employment following high school graduation.

Instruction is provided in a two hour and forty-minute day, five-day-a-week schedule throughout the school year. Instruction is provided in classrooms, laboratories, and community settings that use equipment similar to that used in business and industry.

Enrollment in Career Start is completed at the high school. Contact your high school counselor or call PPSC High School Programs at 719-502-3111 for more information.

Articulation Agreements

High school students may earn college credits by successfully earning an A or B grade in approved career technical education courses at their high school. Pikes Peak State College has articulation agreements with most local school districts. A transcription fee of $10 per PPSC course is applicable. Articulated courses can apply toward corresponding degrees and certificates at Pikes Peak State College but are not designated as transfer courses to four-year colleges and universities. For more information, call PPSC High School Programs at 719-502-3111.

Concurrent Enrollment

Concurrent Enrollment (CE) allows high school students to take college classes at PPSC and earn high school and college credit. Students enroll in courses for which they meet the prerequisites and are applicable to their future career and academic goals.

To participate in CE, students must obtain permission from a parent or guardian, high school counselor and/or district administrator and must apply for the College Opportunity Fund (COF). School districts under contract must pay for the tuition and may pay for fees and/or books for qualifying courses. Contact your high school counselor for more specific information. Home-schooled students are also welcome to participate with school district sponsorship. Contact the High School Programs Office at 719-502-3111 for more information.

Degree Start

Degree Start is a program for junior and senior high school students majoring in transfer degrees at Pikes Peak State College Students interested in Degree Start demonstrate their readiness to be successful in college level courses through placement testing. Classes are in person on the Centennial Campus from 9-11:40 a.m., Monday through Friday and follow the traditional college instructional calendar. Students should talk with their high school counselors to determine if Degree Start is a good fit to meet high school graduation requirements and to start earning college credits toward a transfer degree. For more information, contact High School Programs at 719-502-3111 or via email.

Pivot

The Pivot Dropout Recovery program is an opportunity for students between the ages of 16-20 who have disengaged or are at risk of disengaging from their high schools to earn a high school diploma and college credits.

There are three criteria for identifying the ideal candidate:

  • A student who expresses the desire to complete a high school diploma (rather than an equivalency diploma).
  • A student who is at least 16 years old and who can earn enough high school credits to fulfill graduation requirements by 21 years of age.
  • A student who has expressed some interest in post-secondary education or training.

School districts under contract with Pikes Peak State pay the costs of this program. Students taking part in Pivot need to be re-enrolled through a district program or school so that they may continue to add credits to a high school transcript. A school counselor supports the Pivot Success Coach with the development of a student success plan. Pivot students spend 100% of their school time on the college campus. For more information, contact High School Programs at 719-502-3111 or via email.

High School Student Records and College Credit Opportunities

Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) welcomes high school students who wish to begin their college education while completing their high school diploma. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), all students enrolled in PPSC courses, including concurrently enrolled high school students, are considered independent students. Therefore, information from a student’s educational record will not be released to parents or guardians without the student’s written consent. Students may authorize the release of non-directory information to a parent, guardian, or other individual or agency by completing the “Release of Non-Directory Information” form.

PPSC offers several programs that allow high school students to earn college credit and, in some cases, industry-recognized credentials while still in high school. For more information about these opportunities, visit the High School Programs webpage.