An associate degree typically requires the completion of about 60 semester credit hours. This usually translates to approximately 20 courses, as most classes are 3 credit hours each
. The time to complete these credit hours depends on the student's course load per semester. For example:
- Taking 15 credit hours per semester (about 5 courses) can lead to finishing in 2 years.
- Taking fewer courses per semester will extend the time proportionally, such as 12 credit hours per semester taking about 2.5 years, or even longer if taking part-time
Some programs may require slightly more credits, ranging from 60 to 66 credit hours for transfer-oriented associate degrees, and up to 72 or more for applied science degrees, especially in health-related fields
. In summary, an associate degree generally involves completing around 60 credit hours, which most full-time students accomplish in about two years
