Are you curious about options for getting an associates in liberal arts online?
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People are increasingly pursuing associate degrees using online programs and virtual classes.
Associate’s in Liberal Arts Degrees Online
Did you know that there are actually two mainstream degree paths when getting an associates degree in liberal arts online? One of the first decisions you’ll make as a student is your specialty.
You can choose to pursue liberal arts or general studies when selecting two-year associate degrees option.
Associate’s in Liberal Arts
A liberal arts associate degree offers a broad spectrum of study and a solid educational foundation in general knowledge. You may be introduced to courses and concepts that include global issues, business, art, literature, communications, and politics. You will ideally emerge from your academic time with sharply honed analytical and critical-thinking skills.
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An associates degree in liberal arts online may be perfect for a curious, interested mind. It can prepare you to work for businesses and organizations that need and appreciate well-rounded experts. This can also be a nice foundation for a four-year degree in a liberal arts subject.
Associate’s in General Studies
General studies associate degrees can allow you to cover the basic courses necessary for more technical degrees. Most people complete a general studies associates degree with the intention of moving onto a major at a four-year school.
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General studies degree can provide an opportunity to knock out those general education courses that lay the foundation for a longer college path. As student, you can expect to take general education courses that cover biology, the arts, math, social sciences, humanities, and literature.
Liberal Arts Curriculum & Courses
An associates in liberal arts can deliver that well-rounded solid educational foundation and a college experience that people want when pursing higher education! The coursework involved can help you dabble in the great concepts, discoveries, and works of art that shape industries and societies.
What’s more, you’re being enriched by learning skills that can make you more marketable in your chosen field.
Here’s a look at some of the courses you might take while pursuing your associate’s degree:
Art History looks at the great works of art that are held and valued in the hearts, minds, and museums of the world! Students can learn about specific artists, pieces, and movements that have shaped the world. Works by iconic artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Rembrandt, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol are often studied.
English Composition introduces students to the concept of effective written communication for professional, research, and persuasive purposes. Students can analyze both outside works and their own compositions.
English Literature is an examination of great works of British literature. This course often goes all the way back to the epic poem of “Beowulf” before exploring works from greats like Chaucer and Shakespeare.
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Foreign Language classes in languages like Spanish, French, Latin, Italian, and Japanese are often offered at two-year schools. These courses may be of particular interest to you if you’d like to work in an industry where foreign-language skills are beneficial.
Geology explores the physical history of the planet. Students learn how to look at events, structures, and substances within the planet’s makeup to understand and investigate natural processes.
History looks at the events and historical figure that shaped societies throughout time. Some introductory history courses focus on presenting a global picture of world history. Others focus on very precise windows of time in specific regions.
Introduction to Psychology introduces students to accepted theories regarding human psychology and the individual psyche. This course typically covers influential psychological studies that have been done within the past century. In addition, contributions regarding concepts like the ego from Sigmund Freud are examined.
Introduction to Sociology explores theories regarding social behavior, individual behavior, and societal dynamics. Students also learn how to apply the concepts they’re learning to local and global contexts in the real world.
Math lays the groundwork for complex theories of algebra or geometry that must be taken later on in the degree path by science, medical, or engineering majors. However, you’ll generally find that math courses required for liberal arts degrees are designed for non-math majors and help you develop skills in general math.
Public Speaking is an interactive, practical course that introduces students to the concepts of effective oral communication. Presentations or debates on topics are often used for grading.
Liberal arts majors often have confidence regarding their abilities to explore new concepts with open, analytical minds. Many students find that an affinity for a specific course opens up inspiration for a specific field of study or career path.
Liberal Arts Careers & Salaries
You might say that the sky is the limit when it comes to where you can go after you get your liberal arts associate degree. Graduates truly work in all industries!
Yes, the opportunities waiting on the other side of this degree are vast. In fact, they are almost too vast to really pin down in a single list. We can still take a look at some salary expectations for common job roles people fill after obtaining their associates degrees in liberal arts.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for workers in roles that require associates degrees is $56,590. Here’s a look at how it breaks down for some specific roles:
| Careers |
Annual Median Salary |
| Sales Manager |
$132,290 |
| Executive Assistant |
$63,110 |
| Sales Representative of Services |
$58,770 |
| Legal Assistant |
$52,920 |
| Human Resources Assistant |
$43,250 |
| Announcer |
$41,950 |
| Administrative Assistant |
$40,990 |
| Social and Human Service Assistant |
$35,960 |
| Customer Service Specialist |
$35,830 |
| Receptionist |
$31,110 |
Please keep in mind that some employers look for a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to be considered for a few of these positions.
Graduates of associates programs often really shine in support roles. However, the analytical and problem-solving skills they’ve learned in their studies can prime them to be candidates for promotion after beginning in entry-level roles.
Choosing a Liberal Arts Degree
How do you choose a degree that’s going to support your educational and professional goals? It’s important to look at factors like course offerings, scheduling, and availability of faculty.
Many schools that offer associates degrees in liberal arts are focused on fostering well-rounded learners. You should see general education courses that represent the “mainstream” classes that are available at most two-year and four-year colleges.
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Don’t be afraid to inquire about instructors. It may be important to you that instructors at the institution you attend have very specific backgrounds and specialties that qualify them to teach subjects. You should also investigate the types of job roles graduates take on after graduation.
Lastly, it’s important to look at options like flexibility when earning associates degrees online. You may be at a point where it’s only feasible to pursue a liberal arts degree if you can do your learning online. Be sure to investigate the resources available to virtual learners before settling on a degree program.
Admissions Requirements
What does it take to get accepted into an associates degree liberal arts program? Let’s talk about where to start if you want to apply to programs.
Generally, liberal arts associates programs tend to have more flexible and lenient acceptance requirements than four-year institutions. You’ll still need to prove that you meet a program’s criteria before you can enroll. Here’s a glance at the basic admissions requirements for associates programs.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- ACT or SAT scores
- Passing grades in any required prerequisite courses
- Personal letter/statement of goals
- Letters of recommendation
Requirements vary by institution. For instance, you may find that the minimum required GPA for high school work is different for each school. Some institutions may require students to take placement tests in mathematics and English.
Accreditation
You may have seen or heard regional accreditation discussed while doing your research regarding schools and programs. This designation means that a school has been recognized by an accrediting body that is approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
An example would be accreditation from the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC).
The big perk of going with a regionally accredited school is prestige. Additionally, credits from regionally accredited schools are typically easier to transfer. That’s important to know if there’s a chance you’ll transfer some or all of the credits you earn while pursuing a degree in liberal arts.
Liberal Arts Professional Organizations
One of the exciting things about becoming a professional in a field is joining a professional organization.
- The American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP) is the largest association for executive assistants and administrative professionals on the globe. Membership opens up opportunities for training, certification, and conference invitations. Members can also earn the Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) designation.
- The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) offers access to networking, training, career connections, and conferences. The organization also offers a path to the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) designation.
- The National Association of Professional Receptionists (NAPR) hosts conferences and networking events. Members can also participate in message boards. Additionally, NAPR offers paths to certification for receptionists.
Membership is really an opportunity for making connections, building personal development, gaining access to job openings, and keeping up with developments in your field.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The good news is that two-year institutions often charge significantly less per credit than four-year institutions. That means you’re saving money starting from the time you enroll!
Of course, you’ll still want to pursue financial aid opportunities for an associates degree in liberal arts. Students are eligible to apply for federal aid via FAFSA. Federal grants, loans, and scholarships are available for students pursuing liberal arts degrees.
Additionally, private or local scholarship opportunities may be open to students pursuing liberal arts or two-year degrees.
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It may be necessary to apply to new scholarship programs each year or semester. Most scholarships can only be awarded to each recipient once in a lifetime.
The good news is that strong GPA and academic performance as you move through your semesters will increase your odds of being awarded additional scholarships.
What Can You Do With an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts?
An associates degree in liberal arts can be a versatile jumping-off point for an exciting future. Some students begin this degree path with a goal of landing a support role at a company or organization after graduation.
Liberal arts graduates routinely enter entry-level or support roles in human resources departments, sales departments, and government agencies.
It is also common for liberal arts graduates to take on roles as executive or administrative assistants. Being the “driving force” behind an executive team or department can be a very fulfilling career path and may help you develop skills needed for leadership roles.
Many students who graduate with associates degrees in liberal arts have a bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution in mind. An associates degree is a natural bridge to a higher degree.
Is an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts Worth Anything?
Yes, the value of an associates degree in liberal arts is worthwhile for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 12% job growth in community and social service occupations and 4% in media and communication occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in these fields include receptionist, social and human service assistant, announcer, and legal assistant.
What Is the Difference Between AA and AS?
An AA is an associate of arts degree. An AS is an associates of science degree.
An AA exclusively focuses on courses in the realm of liberal arts. An AS blends liberal arts and science. However, a much greater emphasis is placed on courses in science and math.
What Classes Are Required for a Liberal Arts Degree?
A liberal arts associate degree typically encompasses art, literature, fine arts, social sciences, and humanities. Students can expect to take a variety of classes that incorporate human development, societal structures, and great works of art into a robust curriculum.
Additionally, highly practical courses like public speaking and communications help to create a well-rounded experience.
This is a degree path that offers a “taste of everything” because it’s preparing you to be a dynamic person in any job role you take on!
What Kind of Career Can You Get With an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts?
An associates in liberal arts can be a great path if you’re interested in landing a support role or entry-level position at a corporation or organization. This degree is commonly held by executive and administrative assistants.
It’s also possible to get entry-level sales or communications jobs with an associates degree in liberal arts.
How Long does it Take to Complete an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts Online?
An associates degree is designed to be completed in two years. However, many schools allows students to go at their “own pace.” It’s important to look at credit hours instead of focusing on how many “years” you’ll be in school.
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Most programs require a student to complete 60 semester credits before being permitted to graduate. Some schools may offer online accelerated liberal arts degree programs that allow students to complete the required amount of credits in a shorter period of time.
Outside of accelerated programs, students may also take extra classes or even fewer classes depending on whether they want to accelerate or reduce the path to graduation. Additionally, a minimum GPA requirement may be in place to graduate.
How Much does an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Studies Cost?
Actual cost per credit varies by school. Most two-year programs charge between $100 and $500 per semester credit. Costs vary based on factors like residency and degree program.
A student can expect to save thousands of dollars by completing an associates degree instead of jumping right into a four-year institution.
Universities Offering Online Liberal Arts Associate’s Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
- AA in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Alexandria Technical and Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- AS in Liberal Arts
Austin Peay State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- AA in Liberal Studies
Brenau University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- AA in Liberal Arts
Brescia University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- AA in Liberal Studies
The California University of Pennsylvania is a public university accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
- AA in Liberal Arts
Cowley College is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- AS in Liberal Arts
Excelsior College is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
- AA in Liberal Arts
Florida Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- AA in General Studies
Golden Gate University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
- AA in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Hillsborough Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- AA in Liberal Arts and Science
Holyoke Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
- AA in Liberal Arts
John Tyler Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- AA in General Studies
Keiser University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
- AA in Liberal Studies
Kennebec Valley Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
- AA in Liberal Arts
Lewis-Clark State College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
- AA in Interdisciplinary Studies
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- Associate of General Studies
Louisiana State University at Alexandria is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
- AA in Liberal Studies
NEC is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
- AA in Liberal Arts
OCC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
- AA in Liberal Arts
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- AA in General Education
Seminole State College of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- AA in Liberal Arts
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
- AA in Liberal Arts
UAF is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
- AA in General Education
University of Massachusetts – Global is accredited by the WSCUC Senior College and University Commission.
- AA in Liberal Studies
Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Getting Your Associate’s in Liberal Arts Degree Online
An online associates degree in liberal arts can give you the ability to bring a global classroom into your home! It’s exciting to think that centuries of art, literature, and scientific research can be learned from expert professors right from your own home without the need to visit a campus.
Is it time to take that leap toward furthering your education to break down the barriers between a degree requirement and your “dream” job? Apply to an online liberal arts associate degree program to get things moving.
