Earn your Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Technology and Innovation online.

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Technology and Innovation is a 60 semester-credit-hour degree that prepares you to use technology and AI-enabled tools to solve problems, collaborate across teams, and drive innovation in the workplace. The program blends technical skill-building, innovation practices, and professional communication to prepare graduates for entry-level and emerging roles where human creativity and AI capabilities work side by side. 
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Embedded certificates along the way

At Meritus College, every certificate is a milestone that builds real-world skills for immediate impact and stacks toward your associate degree.

Each 16-semester-credit-hour certificate counts toward our AAS in Technology and Innovation, helping you move forward without starting over. The program is structured for learners to complete their degree in under two years while working full-time, with flexible 8-week terms, career-relevant projects, and our “Workplace as Laboratory” model. Many certificates also align with Google or HRCI industry credentials, so you gain career-relevant expertise immediately. 

Once you have completed your chosen certificate, the AAS furthers skill and knowledge development through the five core areas outlined below. 

Choose your entry-level certificate (16 Units)

Learners must choose one entry-level certificate to specialize in. Your choices are:

Technology Systems and Security

The Technology Systems & Security Certificate prepares learners for entry-level positions in information technology by providing a broad foundation in computer systems, networking, operating systems, and cybersecurity. Learners gain hands-on experience with hardware, software, and troubleshooting techniques, and learn to provide technical support in a variety of workplace settings. Completion of this certificate also earns learners the Google IT Support Certificate or Cybersecurity Professional Certificate, an industry-recognized credential that enhances career readiness in the IT or Cybersecurity fields.
Students must choose one-entry level certificate to specialize in. Options include:

Data Analytics and Insights

The Data Analytics & Insights Certificate provides learners with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required for entry-level roles in data analytics. Learners learn to collect, prepare, analyze, and interpret data using industry-relevant tools and techniques. Coursework emphasizes data cleaning, management, visualization, and presentation, preparing graduates to support data-driven decision-making in a variety of professional contexts. Completion of this certificate also earns learners the Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate, enhancing their industry credentials and employability.
Students must choose one-entry level certificate to specialize in. Options include:

Business Operations and People Leadership

The Business Operations and People Leadership Certificate prepares learners for entry-level roles in human resources and organizational operations by providing foundational knowledge in HR functions, project management, and the digital competencies needed in modern workplaces. Learners gain practical experience with core HR practices, including recruitment and compliance, while also developing essential project management skills such as planning, scheduling, workflow coordination, and cross-functional communication. Coursework emphasizes how effective people leadership, project execution, and data-informed decision-making drive organizational strategy and employee development. Completion of this certificate also earns learners the Google Project Management Professional Certificate and prepares learners for the HRCI Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) exam to earn the aPHR certification, an industry-recognized credential valued by employers in the HR field.

Technical Core (12 Units)

Technical Core courses provide a strong foundation in technology and tools.

Innovation & Management Core (15 Units)

Courses in the Innovation and Management Core focus on people, projects, and organizational systems.

Professional Skills & Communication (9 Units)

Professional skills and communication courses develop interpersonal, communication, and critical thinking skills.

Quantitative and Analytical Foundation (6 Units)

Quantitative and Analytical Foundation courses support data literacy and analytical thinking.

Specialization: Human Computer Interaction (6 Units)

This concentration prepares learners to lead responsibly in tech-driven environments by exploring how people interact with technology, how to design more user-centered systems, and how to navigate ethical challenges in emerging technologies. Through courses in human-centered design and technology ethics, learners gain the skills to make informed, people-first decisions in roles that shape digital tools, services, and experiences. When paired with Principles of Management, Technology Change Management in an AI Era, and Leadership + Decision Making courses, learners earn a certificate in Human-Computer Interaction.
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Explore the academic catalog for program details and support information

Get a complete look at our programs, policies, learner success services, and how Meritus College helps working adults succeed. Download the full catalog to explore your path forward.

Learning outcomes

Meritus College is a new college created to help advance the careers of working adults. As we enroll our first class of students, our programs are built to prepare you for success, both today and in the future. No matter your path, every program helps you achieve the following outcomes:

Advance economic mobility through career-ready skills

Apply in-demand tools and knowledge that lead to family-sustaining wages and long-term growth.

Apply technical and analytical competencies

Build strong foundations in data literacy, problem-solving, and modern technology.

Use and evaluate AI responsibly

Leverage AI tools to support problem-solving, decision-making, and creative work while evaluating for accuracy, bias, and ethical impact.

Lead and collaborate in diverse professional contexts

Strengthen your leadership, teamwork, and adaptability in both in-person and remote work settings.

Communicate effectively across modalities and audiences

Learn to write, speak, and present with clarity, whether to technical peers or executive stakeholders.

Demonstrate ethical, inclusive, and responsible decision-making

Make thoughtful, equity-minded decisions that consider the impact of your work and technology on people and communities.

Engage in reflective practice and lifelong learning

Develop a growth mindset and a habit of self-reflection to support your ongoing personal and professional growth.

Integrate academic knowledge with real-world application

Apply what you learn in the classroom to your current or future job starting right away.


Navigate and maximize flexible, online learning environments

Gain the self-management skills, digital fluency, and confidence to succeed in modern learning and work environments.
These outcomes are woven through the courses, projects, and coaching conversations you’ll have throughout your time at Meritus College.