Programs of study at Polk Community College are designed primarily to lead to the awarding of a certificate or an associate degree. Degree programs require a minimum of 60 academic semester credit hours. Some Associate in Science programs require completion of more than 60 academic semester hours. In each of these programs, the specific length conforms to the state- mandated standards. Vocational certificates are awarded in specific technical areas.
   In addition to regular college credit courses, Polk Community College provides courses designed to strengthen the academic background of students needing additional preparation before entering college-level courses . These "college preparatory courses" are in the areas of English, reading, and mathematics. Students are placed in these courses based on their scores on standardized placement tests.

   The purpose of the General Education curriculum is to provide Polk Community College students varied opportunities to integrate knowledge, skills, attitudes, and experiences essential for their success in higher learning and for their personal, academic, and professional enrichment. Subject matter and instructional methods are designed to develop cultural literacy and critical thinking skills essential for students to become well-educated citizens capable of participating fully, effectively, and productively in a diverse democratic society and global community.
Courses across the academic disciplines share the objectives of stimulating your curiosity, heightening your perceptions, and equipping you to make the best possible use of your resources. As your communications and computational skills are strengthened, you are exposed to theories, strategies, and world views revealing the common cultural heritage we all share.

   At the completion of the General Education core  requirements, the student earning an AA degree from PCC will be able to:
Communication
       1. Demonstrate an understanding of academic 
           and literary works.
       2. Communicate logical ideas through 
           speaking, writing, and listening.
Global Social Awareness
       3. Describe the philosophies that shape the 
          world order.
       4. Participate as informed citizens in solving 
          social and related problems.
       5. Develop a personal code of behavior based 
           on ethical principles.
       6. Develop the skills necessary for effective 
           human relationships.
       7. Explain the historical events that have 
           contributed to cultural differences.
       8. Explain the principles necessary for developing
           and maintaining physical and mental health.
       9. Appreciate the arts and cultures of the world 
           in their geographical and historical contexts.
Computational Skills
     10. Organize mathematical concepts into orderly
           systems and use both computational and non-
           computational methods as needed to solve
           problems.
     11. Interpret information displayed graphically.
     12. Solve real-world problems using a variety of  
           techniques and strategies.
Natural Phenomena
     13. Organize data gathered systematically.
     14. Interpret displays of quantitative information.
     15. Interpret objective data to evaluate a given set 
           of conditions using the scientific method.
     16. Apply scientific principles to a new set of
          conditions.
     17. Work as a contributing member of a team to
           gather and assess information.
     18. Develop an understanding of and respect for 
           the environment and one's place in it.
Information Literacy
      19. Use computers in communication and problem
            solving.
      20. Demonstrate the skills necessary to locate,
            evaluate, and use information.
      21. Describe the impact of technology on self,    
           society, and nature.

  The Associate in Arts Degree is designed for students transferring to senior institutions. Programs of study leading to the A.A. degree consist of a common core of general education courses, specific program requirements, and elective courses.  
   The program requirements to enter specific colleges within the university system are quite varied. Students are encouraged to declare a "university major" when they enroll at PCC and to pick up a Computer Assisted Advising (CAA) document to assist in selecting both general education core courses and re- commended electives to prepare for the chosen "university major."
   The public universities in Florida agree that once students are certified by PCC as completing the general education requirements no further general education courses are required of them when they transfer to the State universities.
   Although the State articulation agreement assures transferability of the A.A. degree into the university system, specific prerequisite courses for intended majors must be taken at PCC in order to avoid making up deficiencies after admission to a university. All A.A. degrees require the general education component of 36 semester credit hours plus other credit hours for a total of 60.
   Some courses designed for use in A.S. programs are not used in A.A. degree programs. A.A. students should not take these courses, and should consult with an advisor prior to registration.

  Polk Community College requires A.A. students to earn 36 semester hours of appropriate course work in specified areas. Some A.A. programs have modified general education requirements. Please consult with an Academic Advisor for the general education requirements of your specific degree program.