Welcome! We’re glad you’re considering getting your online Associate of Applied Science degree at UST.

An associate degree offers a wonderful opportunity to set yourself up for success in a growing career field. While it can take 4 years or longer to earn a bachelor’s degree, you can earn your associate degree within 2 years. You’ll complete the program empowered with skills for rewarding jobs in tech. Highlights of UST’s associate programs include:

  • 100% online programs give you the flexibility to study anytime, anywhere
  • Programs are geared toward technology careers with increasing demand for workers
  • Houston is a growing tech hub, a top 10 U.S. city for computer, engineering and information architecture jobs
  • Great preparation for transition into a 4-year bachelor’s degree program
  • Elite associate degree from a well-regarded private university
  • On-campus amenities for local students
  • Dual credit opportunities are available for Cybersecurity, Drug and Alcohol Counseling, General Business and Networking Technology.

 

What Does It Mean to Be a Celt?​
At UST, our nickname is the Celts. UST students share their views about what it means to attend the University of St. Thomas.

Campus TourWe are excited for you to join us for a campus tour! Appointments are required for prospective student visits, and we will only be able to accommodate walk-in visitors if space allows.

schedule a visit

 Showcase SaturdayUST hosts a variety of special events throughout the year where topics such as the admissions process, scholarships, financial aid, and campus life are discussed. At these events, you'll have the opportunity to interact with students, faculty, and staff from different areas of campus.

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Have Questions about UST?

Join The University of St. Thomas Office of Undergraduate Admissions in our virtual information sessions for prospective and admitted students. During our hour-long information sessions, we will discuss topics such as:

  • Updated Admissions Requirements, How to Submit Your Transcripts & Test Scores, the Test Optional Application Process and more!
  • Financial Aid & Scholarships
  • Current Student Experience – Hear from one of our Presidential Ambassadors!
  • Majors & Programs and Clubs & Organizations
  • Next Steps for Admitted Students

We will also have an open Q & A session with Admissions Counselors.

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Dedicated Career Coach In Your Corner

Dedicated Career Coach In Your Corner​As an associate degree candidate, you’ll receive support throughout your journey from a dedicated career coach who will help you prepare for and find the right job for you. Services include assistance with:

  • Exploring career options
  • Finding job and internship opportunities
  • Communicating and networking effectively
  • Résumé writing
  • Interview skills
  • Salary negotiation
  • Connecting with prospective employers

You’re also welcome to attend our on- and off-campus career fairs, as well as search for job and internship opportunities on our online job board, Handshake.

Learn More About Career Coaching

Dr. Nicole McZeal Walters, Dean of the Associates of Applied Science Program

These programs are in demand, command meaningful wages and will advance your career while embedding UST’s intellectual traditions.

Dr. Nicole McZeal Walters Dean of The Kolbe School of Innovation and Professional Studies

We believe these programs are Houston’s elite associate degrees. If you’re interested in a quality, private university experience, but need the flexibility to learn on your schedule, then these programs could be perfect for you.

They’re convenient, accessible and designed to get you working with the skills needed to make a difference in technology fields as quickly as possible. We don’t just give you the technical skills to do the work, but also nurture the interpersonal and critical thinking skills needed to become leaders, and prepare you for industry-recognized certifications.

Our graduates are prepared to enter a variety of occupations, depending upon the chosen field of study. For example, our Cybersecurity graduates can go on to rewarding careers as a:

  • Cloud administrator
  • Network administrator
  • Network designer
  • Network manager
  • Network security administrator
  • Network technician
  • Systems support technician

For more information on specific jobs for the various degrees, visit the page for the program that interests you:

The programs start on August 19, 2019, and are 100% online. You can progress through the programs on a timeline that’s convenient for you. Also, you don’t have to worry about coming to campus to complete the program, although all campus resources such as the on-campus library and tutoring services are also available, should you want to come to our beautiful campus to work on your assignments.

Tuition costs $300 per credit or approximately $9,000 per year, depending upon how many courses you take at a time*.


*Students may also incur costs associated with books, equipment, off-campus housing, transportation, student fees, miscellaneous fees and other expenses.

To participate in classes in the online classroom, which is known as the Learning Management System, or LMS, you'll need to use a Windows-based desktop computer or laptop. Macs are not supported.

Virtual labs require Networking Technology and Cybersecurity students to use Google Chrome as a browser.

While no minimum internet connection speed is designated, connection speed influences the user experience in the virtual labs, which means the faster the connection, the better your experience.

Before accessing Cengage’s MindTap, you should perform the MindTap readiness checks on your computer, using the links below, and follow the guidance provided by Cengage. Be sure to perform the readiness checks on each computer you use to access MindTap.

Check your browser's readiness.

Check your system's readiness.

The University has a hands-on approach to providing the support you need to succeed in these programs.

Your Program Director is Dr. Rebecca Dowden:

Dr. Rebecca Dowden

Contact Dr. Dowden
Phone: 713-942-5935
Email: dowdenr@stthom.edu

 

Dean of the Associates of Applied Science Program is Dr. Nicole Walters:

r. Nicole Walters

Contact Dr. Walters
Phone: 713-942-5963
Email: waltern@stthom.edu


Both of these committed full-time faculty members are devoted to making sure your experience at the University of St. Thomas is as fulfilling as it is effective at giving you the skills needed to hit the ground running after graduation.

These programs are designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in technology fields. All you need is a passion for technology and a willingness to learn. If you already have some technology background through experience or other education, fantastic! You’re ready to hit the ground running.

At the University of St. Thomas, we’re committed to the success of our graduates. You’ll be assigned a dedicated career coach who can help you find the job that’s right for you. Our professional career advisers are devoted to giving you the skillsets to be successful in the job search process. These services include résumé writing, mock interviews, salary negotiation training and much more.
Our programs are 100% online. You don’t have to worry about driving to campus to complete the program. However, all campus resources such as the library and tutoring services are also available, should you want to come to our beautiful campus to work on your assignments.

Our programs are accredited by SACSCOC and fully eligible for Title IV financial aid. Generally, most students are eligible to fund their studies through federal and state grants and loans as well as through private loans. Payment plans are available through the business office. Learn more about payment options and deadlines.

Every college or university has their own policies for accepting transfer credit. However, the courses do count as elective credit toward a bachelor’s degree at the University of St. Thomas. Therefore, you could continue your studies at UST if you wanted to apply for one of our bachelor’s degree programs. Learn more about our bachelor’s degrees and admission requirements.

Requirements Disclaimer:
*Please note: This is an online program and international students cannot maintain or obtain F-1 student visa status or I-20 form through this program.