Specialized Associate in Arts Transfer Degree to UCF
Health Sciences
Empower Your Future: Discover our SAAT in Health Sciences
The Specialized Associate in Arts Transfer (SAAT) degree in Health Sciences prepares students for transfer as juniors to the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Health Promotion Track or Pre-Clinical Track degree program at the University of Central Florida. This SAAT degree provides direct admission to the University of Central Florida and to the Health Sciences, Health Promotion Track or Pre-Clinical Track. Students are required to meet all requirements listed in the relevant Articulation Agreement in order to complete this degree.
Please note: This program is not currently available on our admissions application. It will be available by the end of April 2026.
Overview
The Specialized Associate in Arts Transfer (SAAT) degree provides students with a direct pathway to UCF’s Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. As the second-largest major at UCF, many students begin their path to a health career by majoring in Health Sciences. Often referred to as pre-med, our science-based, application-oriented curriculum is designed for students with an interest in human health who plan to pursue careers in medicine, other health professions, clinical/behavioral health research, health promotion, and public health. With two distinct tracks, you can fine-tune your selection of courses to meet your goals.
Program Highlights
- Flexible Learning Options: Offers courses online and in person.
- Local Partnerships: Direct admission to the University of Central Florida and to the Health Sciences, Health Promotion Track or Pre-Clinical Track.
Program Length
The program consists of 60-87 credit hours and can be completed in less than three years when attending full-time.
Program Cost
Tuition costs for programs and courses at the associate’s degree level are $109.73 per credit hour. Additional costs will include textbooks, materials, and course fees.
Program Cost DetailsScholarships
Students graduating from high school and enrolling at LSSC may qualify for other scholarships offered through the State of Florida. You will be notified of your eligibility after you apply to the College.
Scholarship DetailsFinancial Aid
There are many options to finance your education. You may be eligible for Federal Grants, Work-Study, State Grants, Federal Loans, and Institutional Scholarships. For more information and how to apply, please visit the Financial Aid page.
Financial Aid DetailsThe Specialized Associate in Arts Transfer (SAAT) pathway is designed to align lower‑division coursework beyond the standard AA degree to prepare students for transfer into a specific bachelor’s program at a designated university. When applied to Health Sciences, the SAAT pathway prepares students for transfer into the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences at the University of Central Florida (UCF) by ensuring appropriate foundational coursework in science and related disciplines. [ucf.edu]
Specialized Associate in Arts Transfer pathways are structured to support guaranteed admission to a designated UCF major upon completion of all program requirements, consistent with UCF’s transfer alignment model. The UCF Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences is a recognized transfer destination for SAAT‑aligned programs.
The time needed to complete the Health Sciences SAAT depends on the number of credits earned each semester. If a student enrolls full-time, the pathway can be completed in less than three years.
The UCF Health Sciences BS is a science‑based, application‑oriented program focused on human health. Students complete coursework integrating biological and behavioral sciences and choose from two career‑focused tracks:
- Pre‑Clinical Track, designed for students pursuing careers such as physician, physician assistant, dentist, or pharmacist
- Health Promotion Track, designed for students pursuing careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, public health, or health‑related research
Graduates of the UCF Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences are prepared for careers in medicine and other health professions, clinical and behavioral health research, health promotion, and public health, as well as for advanced graduate or professional study in health‑related fields.
Beginning a Health Sciences pathway through a SAAT‑aligned associate degree allows students to:
- Complete foundational coursework locally and at approximately half the cost of tuition compared to state universities
- Receive early academic and career advising
- Prepare intentionally for the rigor and structure of a competitive health‑focused bachelor’s program
- Transition efficiently into UCF’s Health Sciences BS with coursework aligned to program expectations
UCF’s Health Sciences BS is one of the university’s largest majors and is housed within the College of Health Professions and Sciences. The program emphasizes experiential learning, research engagement, internships, and professional development opportunities that support students’ preparation for health‑related careers and graduate study.
Most courses are offered online, but availability can vary by semester.
Yes, LSSC offers various financial aid options. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA application. Learn more.
LSSC provides academic advising, tutoring, and career services to help students succeed. Learn More.
Interested students should complete an application through the LSSC website and meet any necessary admission requirements. Apply.
Application Process
A student must have a high school diploma or GED to apply to Lake-Sumter State College.
01
Submit your Application
Submit your online application and $30 application fee
02
Transcripts
Submit high school/GED and prior college/university transcripts
03
Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA and other financial aid forms
Our team is ready to support you!
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Associate in Arts
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