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An associates degree is generally awarded by community colleges and junior colleges. However, a few four-year colleges and universities also award the degree. You need about 60 credit hours to graduate from most associate programs.

If you enroll in courses full-time you can expect to earn your associates degree in about two years. Nonetheless as a part time student you have the flexibility of online classes as well as a wide choice of courses that you can complete within your program of study. Generally there are two options in associate programs.

There are two main categories of associates degrees: Those that prepare you for your professional degree and those that you can use to earn your four-year degree as transfer courses. The second type helps you work toward your general education (Gen. Ed.) courses or foundational coursework. Typically, programs are made up of general education requirements, major requirements, and electives. Full time study is equal to 4 semesters or 15 semester credit hours. Some accelerated distance two-year programs are also available online and most associate degrees online have many of the same requirements as on-campus or in-classroom courses.

Two-year degrees are available in a variety of areas in business and management, education, and liberal arts. Some online degree options to consider are business, accounting, nursing, criminal justice, education, early childhood development, computer and information systems, health administration, medical administration as an example.

General education courses are an integral part of most associate degrees online and include coursework in Communication, Natural Sciences/Mathematics, Humanities, and Social Science. You can earn an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree program, an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program or an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree programs depending on whether you pursue arts or science track.

Both professional and occupational degree programs give their graduates the advantage of being qualified for entry-level positions in professions such as medical assisting, computer networking, computer programming, nursing, paralegal, and criminal justice. These programs offer graduate the advantage of expedited entry into their profession.

In general, you would need to have a GED or high school diploma to be accepted into a degree program. In addition, ACT or SAT scores would be required. However, some colleges may accept equivalent or relevant work experience if you do not have a diploma. Check with your college of interest if this is the case.

With more adults working full time, yet wishing to return to college to get a degree or develop their knowledge and skills set, the need and demand for flexible online programs has also grown. One way to help you make the right decision is to conduct research on what online programs are accredited. In addition, also find out if they offer financial aid as an option to those who want to attend school full time.

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