Final answer:
The Associate in Science (A10400) (AS) degree is designed for students looking to pursue STEM subjects with the intention to transfer to a four-year institution or to enter the job market with specific technical skills. It caters to those seeking a blend of broad education and specialized knowledge, enabling them to enhance their cultural capital and professional competence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Associate in Science (A10400) (AS) degree is primarily designed for students who are interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and are planning to transfer to a four-year educational institution to pursue a bachelor's degree. Students who pursue an AS degree often take courses in technical subjects, which account for approximately 40.9% according to a given statistic. These degrees provide a strong foundation in science and math, which is essential for students planning to continue their education in STEM fields or for those who seek to move quickly into the workforce with specific technical skills.
Furthermore, the AS degree is also useful for those belonging to the lower-middle class who may seek to complete a two-year degree for immediate entry into the labor market or to reduce the cost of a four-year education before transferring. Additionally, earning an AS degree can also provide students with "cultural capital," helping to enrich their lives, enhance their ability to work with experienced professionals, and foster a broad perspective on both their specialization and the world at large.