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An Associate's degree is an academic degree that is usually awarded through community colleges, junior colleges and some four-year colleges and universities. To get an associates degree at most colleges, you need to at least 60 undergraduate credit hours.

On average, if you take classes full-time, you can earn your associates degrees in about two-years. However, part-time students enjoy are quite flexible with online classes and have a broad selection of classes that they require to complete their program of study. There are two main types of associate's 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 virtual learning is available in business, liberal arts, and other disciplines. Many associate degrees online will accept transfer credits from two-year programs. Some areas of study within associate degrees online are: Accounting, Arts and Humanities Business & Management, Criminal Justice, Design, Early Childhood Development, Education, Engineering, Computers and Technology, Graphic Design, Health Sciences, Hospitality Management, Human Resources Management, Law and Paralegal, Marketing, Social Sciences, and Telecommunications to mention a few.

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.

Occupational and professional Associate's degrees allow graduates to get entry level positions in areas such as computer programming, criminal justice, graphic design, paralegal areas, nursing, and medical assistant. Thus, associate degrees offer a flexible platform for quick entry into many professions.

Generally, you will be required to have a high school diploma or GED. You also need a good GPA and some schools may want to see your SAT or ACT scores. Other colleges will accept relevant work experience in lieu of a diploma to qualify the student for entry.

Accreditation is a very important consideration when choosing a school. Accreditation means that the school meets certain standards that make it a credible institution. This applies for both online and traditional colleges and universities.

As many working adults continue to enroll in college, there is a growing demand for online degree programs. You can opt to complete associate degrees online if you have a busy schedule. You can research many of these schools online. Many have great programs and they give students the option to apply for financial aid and scholarships.