Associate of Arts (A.A.) — Your Affordable Start to a Bachelor's Degree
What Is the Associate of Arts?
The Associate of Arts is a two-year degree focused on liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences. It is the most common transfer degree, designed to cover your first two years of general education requirements before you transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor's degree. The A.A. is typically offered at community colleges at a fraction of the cost of a university. For students who know they want a bachelor's degree but want to save money, the A.A. is the smartest financial move in higher education. Many state university systems have articulation agreements that guarantee seamless transfer of A.A. credits.
Who Is the A.A. For?
Students who plan to transfer to a four-year university, budget-conscious students who want to save on general education costs, undecided students who want to explore different fields before committing to a major, and adults returning to school who want a manageable starting point.
Common Classes in a A.A. Program
Here are the 10 core courses you can expect to take in a typical Associate of Arts program:
English Composition I & II
Develops college-level writing skills including thesis construction, argumentation, research paper formatting, and critical analysis of texts.
College Algebra
Covers functions, equations, inequalities, and graphing. This is the standard math requirement for non-STEM transfer students.
Introduction to Psychology
Explores human behavior, cognitive processes, developmental stages, and psychological disorders. One of the most popular gen-ed courses.
U.S. History I & II
Surveys American history from pre-Columbian civilizations through the modern era, covering political, social, and economic developments.
Introduction to Sociology
Studies social structures, inequality, institutions, and how groups and cultures shape individual behavior.
Public Speaking
Builds confidence and technique in oral communication: organizing a speech, using evidence, managing stage fright, and persuasive delivery.
Humanities / Philosophy
Explores art, literature, music, and philosophical thought across cultures and time periods. Develops critical thinking and cultural literacy.
Natural Science with Lab
A lab science course (Biology, Chemistry, or Environmental Science) that satisfies the science requirement for transfer.
Introduction to Political Science
Examines government systems, political theory, elections, public policy, and the U.S. Constitution.
Art or Music Appreciation
Surveys major artistic or musical movements, styles, and cultural contexts. Satisfies the fine arts general education requirement.
Career Paths With a A.A.
Salary ranges are approximate national averages and will vary by location, experience, and employer.
Pros
- Costs 50-70% less than starting at a university
- Designed specifically for seamless transfer to a four-year school
- Smaller class sizes and more instructor attention than large universities
- Gives undecided students time to explore interests affordably
- Can be completed part-time while working
Cons
- Limited career options with just an A.A. — most students need to continue to a bachelor's
- Not all credits may transfer if you do not follow the articulation agreement
- Some students lose motivation during the transfer process
- Campus life and networking opportunities are more limited at community colleges
Expert Tips for A.A. Students
- 1
Get a written credit evaluation from your target transfer university BEFORE you start classes.
- 2
Follow the articulation agreement exactly — taking random courses wastes time and money.
- 3
Apply for the Pell Grant through FAFSA. Many community college students qualify and attend for free.
- 4
Meet with an advisor at your target 4-year school while you are still at the community college.