Introduction
An associate’s degree is a two-year postsecondary degree that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level positions in a variety of fields. To earn an associate’s degree, students must complete a specific number of credit hours, which vary depending on the program and institution.
Coursework Requirements
Associate’s degree programs typically require students to complete between 60 and 75 credit hours of coursework, which includes both general education courses and major-specific courses.
General Education Courses
General education courses provide students with a broad foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, including:
- English composition
- Mathematics
- Social sciences
- Natural sciences
- Humanities
Major-Specific Courses
Major-specific courses provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for their chosen field of study. Common majors for associate’s degrees include:
- Business
- Computer science
- Education
- Healthcare
- Information technology
- Liberal arts
Transfer Credits
Students who have completed coursework at another institution may be able to transfer those credits to their associate’s degree program. This can save time and money, as students do not have to repeat courses that they have already completed.
To transfer credits, students must submit official transcripts from their previous institution. The registrar’s office will determine which credits can be transferred to the associate’s degree program.
Time to Completion
The time it takes to complete an associate’s degree depends on a number of factors, including the number of credit hours required for the program, the student’s course load, and the student’s transfer credits.
Most associate’s degree programs can be completed in two years, but some students may take longer to complete the degree, depending on their individual circumstances.
Cost of Attendance
The cost of attending an associate’s degree program varies depending on the institution, the program, and the student’s residency status.
In general, public institutions are less expensive than private institutions. In-state students typically pay less than out-of-state students.
The average cost of an associate’s degree from a public institution is $15,000, while the average cost of an associate’s degree from a private institution is $30,000.
Career Prospects
Associate’s degrees provide graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level positions in a variety of fields. Common careers for associate’s degree graduates include:
- Administrative assistant
- Computer support specialist
- Dental assistant
- Medical assistant
- Nursing assistant
- Retail manager
High School Preparation
Students who want to pursue an associate’s degree should prepare for college-level coursework by taking challenging high school courses, including:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social studies
- Foreign language
Financial Aid
Students who need financial assistance to pay for college can apply for financial aid from the federal government and from their state government. Financial aid can come in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs.
Getting Started
Students who are interested in pursuing an associate’s degree should contact the admissions office of the institution that they want to attend. The admissions office will provide information about the admissions process, the coursework requirements, and the financial aid opportunities available.
Conclusion
An associate’s degree is a valuable credential that can lead to a successful career in a variety of fields. By completing the coursework requirements, applying for financial aid, and preparing for college-level coursework, students can increase their chances of success in an associate’s degree program.
Additional Resources
- American Association of Community Colleges
- College Board
- National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities
- U.S. Department of Education