Are you ready to graduate? We’ll explain about Graduation and take you through the process, from applying for graduation to receiving your Degree/Certificate.
Invest in Yourself - GRADUATE
DO YOU HAVE 30 COLLEGE LEVEL HOURS OR MORE? Students are encouraged to meet with their faculty advisors each semester prior to registration, but at least one semester prior to their anticipated graduation date to get a degree audit completed. Students should apply for graduation during the semester they plan to complete all requirements for their degree or certificate.
STUDENTS PLANNING TO TRANSFER - Invest in Yourself - GRADUATE! Students planning to transfer to a four-year university to complete a Bachelor's degree may be eligible to receive an Associate degree based on completion of the first two years of work on an approved transfer plan. For more information, stop by or contact The Center for Academic Transitions in the Student Center, room 101 or call 210-486-3131 or email pac-Graduation@alamo.edu .
Why You Should Get an Associate's Degree
An associate degree is a milestone in your educational journey.
Graduation from PAC is an accomplishment that shows you have achieved a goal. You will also serve as a role model for your family and others in your community to further their education.
If you plan to obtain a four year degree, you can usually get an Associate degree as you take courses that count towards your Bachelor's degree.
It’s like getting a bonus degree on the path to the Bachelor’s degree! Go ahead and apply on ACES you've earned it!
It can increase your competitive ability in the job market.
Individuals with an Associate degree earn at least $7,000 or higher annual income than high school graduates and are less likely to be unemployed during their lifetime.
You can enhance your job skills in high-demand areas.
Many programs at PAC are in high-demand fields such as pre-nursing, business, computer information systems, education, accounting and pre-med. The credentials needed to enter these exciting, well-paying careers are obtainable at PAC.
The associate degree provides for a smoother transition for transfer.
An associate degree includes the core curriculum which must be accepted by all Texas public colleges and universities.
You'll gain added incentive and encouragement.
Once you formally graduate from PAC, you will feel empowered to succeed at the next level. As a Palo Alto graduate, transfer student, family member or simply a PAC enthusiast with a love for our beloved campus, we encourage you to join us alamo.edu/pac/alumni/.
Meet the Requirements
To be awarded an Associate Degree or Certificate students must:
- Complete all required courses and semester credit hours for the specific degree or certificate.
- Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all coursework completed at the Alamo Colleges (excluding developmental-level coursework) as well as courses successfully completed at all other colleges and universities that apply to the student’s degree or certificate program at the Alamo Colleges.
- Submit official transcripts of all coursework attempted at other colleges and universities.
- Earn a grade of “C” or better for all degree requirements for the technical program major in Associate of Applied Science Degree or Certificate programs
- Earn at least 25% of degree hours required for graduation in residency at the college of the Alamo Colleges granting the degree or certificate.
- Fulfill all Texas Success Initiative (TSI) requirements.
- Be in Good Academic Standing at the end of the term the student is receiving the award
Graduation vs. Commencement
Graduation – The process of being awarded a degree or certificate. To be awarded a degree or certificate, candidates must meet with their faculty advisor, have a degree or certificate audit completed and must apply for graduation and meet all degree or certificate requirements. Graduation occurs three times in the academic year: Fall, Spring and Summer.
Commencement – The congratulatory ceremony (walking across the stage) held at the end of each Spring semester in which the attainment of a degree or certificate is recognized by the College, family, friends and community. Actual degree or certificate is not awarded at the commencement ceremony.
Deadlines
- Accepting Applications for students completing in the Spring 2013: March 18th 2013.
Steps to Apply
Students are encouraged to begin planning for graduation early by meeting with their faculty advisor to verify completion. Students must also verify that the major for the degree or certificate they are applying for is up to date. Changes to the major must be completed at Admissions and Records, Palomino Center, Room 117.
- Meet with your Faculty Advisor for a degree or certificate audit.
- Complete Graduation paper application
- Bring degree or certificate audit and Graduation paper application to the Center for Academic Transitions, Student Center Room 101.
- Apply online on ACES. Click here to learn how to apply for graduation using your ACES account.
Students are strongly encouraged to visit with a Faculty Advisor in the department office for their major to receive a preliminary degree or certificate evaluation and to discuss Graduation options and appropriate catalog year.
Notification of Graduation Status
Students will be notified through their ACES email and or by mail regarding any information pertaining to Graduation. Students can inquire in person at the Center for Academic Transitions in the Student Center, room 101 or call 210-486-3131 or email pac-Graduation@alamo.edu .
Degree/Certificate Awarding
A final degree audit must be completed before a degree is officially awarded.
- Degrees will be posted on transcripts 30 days after the close of the semester.
- Diplomas to be mailed 60 days after the close of the semester.
Spring 2013 Commencement
Spring 2013 Commencement
Summer 2012 graduates, December 2012 graduates, Spring 2013 graduates and students with less than 6 hours to complete in Summer 2013 and are candidates for graduation, are invited to participate in the Commencement Ceremony at the Freeman Coliseum on May 16, 2013.
Congratulations on your accomplishments!
Visit our Alumni & Friends Page: alamo.edu/pac/alumni