The Associate of Applied Science is a vocational/technical degree that is intended as a stand alone credential and not as the foundation of a bachelor’s degree.

The difference is that in the AA/AS program you take courses that are the lower level of a bachelor’s degree such as composition, literature, history, math, science, social sciences, etc… In the AAS program you take some of those, not too many, but mostly take “how to do” classes in your major. The AAS would be in programs such as computer technology, office occupations, technical occupations, and some health fields. Some colleges put their business programs under the AAS as well though many have an ABA or AS in Business.

If your objective is to get the associates and then begin working, the AAS programs will likely be where you need to look. If you’re wanting to continue in a senior college after the associates then the AA/AS will be your choice.

Good luck!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Applied_Science