Academics

Your Path, Your Future at NOVA

Northern Virginia Community College has programs that fit your goals. Earn a two-year associate degree, a one-year certificate, or a short-term career studies certificate. Whether you’re planning to transfer to a four-year university or get the skills to start working right away, NOVA gives you flexible options to move forward.

Student in data center program

Plan Your Academic Path

Looking for the right path at NOVA? Our program finder helps you explore all the options—whether you want to earn a certificate, complete an associate degree, or transfer to a four-year school. You can search by your interests, career goals, or program type to quickly see what fits you best. 

Find a Program

Explore NOVA’s Degree and Certificate Programs

Transfer Oriented Degrees

Two Years

An Associate in Arts (AA), Associate in Science (AS), or Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) degree is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution. These programs focus on general education and foundational coursework that aligns with bachelor’s degree programs, helping you complete the first two years of your education while keeping multiple transfer options open. Many students use these degrees to begin their academic journey at NOVA before continuing at a university.

Career Oriented Degrees

Two Years

An Associate in Applied Arts (AAA) or Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree prepares students to be career ready upon completion. These programs emphasize practical, hands-on learning and industry-specific skills so graduates can enter the workforce with the knowledge employers are looking for. Many programs also include real-world experience that helps students transition directly into professional roles.

Skill-Based Certificates

One Year or Less

A Certificate (CERT) is designed to advance those in their current field, and a Career Studies Certificate (CSC) is targeted to those looking to shift into a new area of work. These short-term programs focus on developing specific skills that can help you grow in your current role, explore a new career path, or gain targeted training in a high-demand field.

Plan Your Courses and Career

Schedule of Classes

The Schedule of Classes is where you’ll find the exact times and formats for each course. Browse listings, class locations, and plan your semester.

College Catalog

The College Catalog includes information about admission to the College, enrollment, degrees, certificates and academic policies.

Academic Calendar

NOVA's academic calendar includes key dates such as registration, advising, class add/drop periods, tuition deadlines and holidays.

Workforce Development

Advance your career with NOVA’s Workforce programs. From continuing education and professional skill-building to industry-recognized certifications, you’ll gain the training you need to move forward in today’s job market.

The primary reason I chose to attend NOVA was the value it offered.

Jason Howell NOVA Graduate

YOUR NEXT STEPS TO NOVA