Associate Degree
What is an associate degree?
An associate degree is an undergraduate credential you earn from a college or university. These programs take about two years of full-time study to complete and provide students with foundational knowledge and skills in a particular area of study.
Depending on the program, an associate degree can prepare you to enter the workforce or provide a foundation for continuing your education in a bachelor’s degree program.
Types of associate degrees
The three most common types of associate degrees are:
- Associate of Arts (AA): Typically focuses on liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences.
- Associate of Science (AS): Often focuses on science, mathematics, healthcare, technology, or other technical areas.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Typically focuses on career-specific knowledge and practical skills designed to prepare students to enter the workforce.
Explore associate degree programs offered at 51ºÚÁÏÍø.
Associate of Science versus Associate of Arts
Associate of Science and Associate of Arts degrees can both provide a foundation for further education, but their areas of emphasis generally differ.
An AS degree includes more coursework in mathematics, science, or technical subjects, while an AA degree generally has a stronger emphasis on liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences. Specific curricula vary by institution and program.
Associate of Applied Science
An Associate of Applied Science degree is generally designed to prepare students with practical skills for a particular career or industry. AAS programs often emphasize hands-on, technical, or career-focused coursework.
While an AAS is typically more workforce-focused than an AA or AS degree, opportunities to transfer credits into a bachelor’s degree program may be available depending on the institution and program.
How long does it take to earn an associate degree?
An associate degree usually takes two years of full-time study to complete. Your timeline may vary based on the program, number of credits taken each semester, transfer credits, and whether you attend full or part time.
What kind of credits do you need for an associate degree?
Associate degree programs typically require around 60 college credits, although requirements vary by program and institution.
These credits generally include a combination of general education courses and courses specific to your field of study. Some programs may also include electives, labs, clinical experiences, internships, or other hands-on learning requirements.
Can you transfer with an associate degree?
Yes. Many students use an associate degree as a pathway toward earning a bachelor’s degree. Depending on the colleges and programs involved, credits earned during an associate degree may fulfill general education, elective, or major requirements toward a four-year degree.
Because transfer policies vary, students should work with an academic advisor and review transfer requirements to understand how their credits may apply to a bachelor’s degree.
At 51ºÚÁÏÍø, you don't have to stop at an associate degree. With certificate, associate, bachelor’s, and doctoral programs available across a variety of fields, you can continue building on your education as your goals grow.
An associate degree from UB can help you build career-ready skills, explore what interests you, and create a foundation for whatever comes next. Explore UB’s program offerings and start building your future.
Your future starts today!
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- Financial aid is available, and we accept applications on a rolling basis
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