However, online classes are not for everyone. Students must develop stronger self-discipline and time-management skills without frequent in-person coaching from an instructor. Some students may also prefer a traditional face-to-face classroom setting to connect with their classmates more frequently.
According to experts, online degrees often cost the same as their on-campus counterparts. However, this varies depending on the institution.
An online program’s academic calendar may provide flexible course scheduling possibilities. Many online programs at Mesa Community College in Arizona take eight weeks, according to Laura Ballard, e-learning director at the school, which provides online associate degrees. Online students can also take courses during a four-week winter intersession and throughout the summer to help them graduate faster.
How Many Credit Hours Does an Online Associate Degree Require?
On average, associate degree programs require 60 semester credit hours; a traditional bachelor’s degree typically requires 120. However, if a student transfers previously earned credits, the number of classes they need to take may be lowered.
According to Ray, a student’s major can also have a minor impact on the total number of credit hours required.
“Some degrees, such as nursing and engineering, have higher technical and core prerequisites that may add credit hours,” Ray explains. “However, it’s often the same as our face-to-face programs, ranging between 60 and 68 credit hours.”
What Are the Course Prerequisites?
According to Simpson, the online offerings at the American Public University System, like most associate degree programs, consist of a blend of general education requirements – coursework students must take to graduate – and courses tailored to their chosen specialty. Students can also take electives.
According to experts, associate degree students might specialize in a specific profession or pursue general studies. Curriculums for on-campus and online degree programs at the same university are sometimes similar, if not identical.
Ray explains that the particular requirements differ amongst online associate degree programs when it comes to general education classes. According to Ray, students who enroll in a program meant to prepare them for transfer to a four-year university will likely need to meet more general education requirements.