An Associate of Arts (AA) degree offers a flexible starting point for many career paths, providing a foundational education that can lead directly to entry-level employment. This two-year program equips students with skills applicable across various industries. For those uncertain about a specific career, the AA offers a cost-effective way to explore academic interests while building a resume.
Understanding the Associate of Arts Degree
An Associate of Arts (AA) degree is a two-year undergraduate program requiring 60-64 credits to complete. The curriculum is centered on the liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences, providing a comprehensive general education. Students take courses in subjects like English, history, communication, mathematics, and social sciences to build a broad base of knowledge.
The AA degree differs from other associate degrees, such as the Associate of Science (AS) or the Associate of Applied Science (AAS). An AS degree also prepares students for transfer but places a greater emphasis on mathematics and science. An AAS degree is more career-focused, preparing graduates for immediate employment in a specific technical field with less emphasis on transferable general education coursework.
Skills Gained from an AA Program
An Associate of Arts program develops a range of transferable skills valuable to employers. The curriculum’s focus on liberal arts and humanities cultivates strong written and oral communication abilities. Courses in English, literature, and communication require students to articulate complex ideas clearly through essays, research papers, and presentations.
The coursework also sharpens critical thinking and analytical skills. History and sociology classes challenge students to evaluate diverse sources, understand different perspectives, and draw logical conclusions from evidence. This training helps them approach problems methodically and make informed decisions. Students also develop research skills by learning to locate, assess, and synthesize information.
An AA degree also fosters adaptability and cultural awareness. Exposure to a variety of subjects in the arts, humanities, and social sciences gives students a broader understanding of the world and different viewpoints. This interdisciplinary foundation encourages intellectual curiosity and problem-solving strategies that can be applied in dynamic work environments.
Jobs You Can Pursue with an Associate of Arts
Preschool Teacher
A preschool teacher educates and cares for children under the age of five, helping them develop foundational skills in a nurturing environment. Responsibilities include creating lesson plans, teaching basic concepts like colors and numbers, and monitoring developmental progress. An AA degree is often the minimum educational requirement for this role, particularly for positions in Head Start programs. The median annual salary for preschool teachers was about $37,120 in May 2024.
Paralegal
Paralegals support lawyers by performing tasks such as drafting legal documents, conducting research, and organizing files for trials. An associate degree is a common and often preferred entry point into the profession. The research, writing, and critical thinking skills from an AA program are highly relevant to a paralegal’s daily duties. The median annual wage for paralegals was $60,970 in 2023.
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants are responsible for the smooth operation of an office, handling tasks like scheduling meetings, managing correspondence, and maintaining records. Their duties can vary widely depending on the industry. Many employers prefer candidates with an associate degree, as the role requires strong organizational and communication skills. Salaries can range from $40,000 to over $70,000 annually.
Customer Service Manager
A customer service manager leads a team of representatives, resolves escalated customer complaints, and helps develop policies to improve the customer experience. This role requires strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills. While advancement is possible from representative roles, many employers seek candidates with an associate or bachelor’s degree. The median salary for a customer service manager is around $60,232 per year.
Library Technician
Library technicians assist librarians with the daily operations of a library, including cataloging materials, helping patrons find information, and managing circulation. An associate degree in library technology is a common qualification for this position. The organizational and research skills from an AA program are beneficial for this role. An experienced library technician can earn an average salary of around $39,778 per year.
Human Resources Assistant
A human resources assistant provides administrative support to the HR department, handling tasks like maintaining employee records and assisting with recruitment. An associate degree in business or a related field is often a requirement for this entry-level position. The role demands discretion and strong interpersonal skills. The average salary for an HR assistant is approximately $57,095 annually.
Bank Teller
Bank tellers are the frontline representatives of a financial institution, responsible for processing transactions, answering customer questions, and handling cash accurately. While a high school diploma is the minimum requirement, some banks prefer applicants with an associate degree. The customer service and attention to detail developed in an AA program are valuable. The median annual wage for tellers was $39,340 in May 2024.
Social Media Assistant
A social media assistant helps manage a company’s online presence by creating content, monitoring engagement, and analyzing performance metrics. This role requires creativity, strong writing skills, and an understanding of marketing. While many positions require a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree can be a stepping stone into the field. The average salary for a social media assistant is around $44,134 per year.
How to Market Your AA Degree to Employers
Present your Associate of Arts degree as a valuable asset on your resume. Place your education section strategically: list it at the top if you are a recent graduate, or after your professional experience otherwise. State the full name of your degree, the institution’s name, and your graduation date.
In the education section, include relevant coursework, a high GPA (if over 3.5), or academic honors to supplement limited professional history. Use your cover letter to connect your skills with the job’s requirements. Mention how specific courses prepared you to interact with customers, collaborate with teams, or solve problems.
During interviews, be prepared to give concrete examples of how academic projects developed your skills. Discuss a research paper that honed your analytical abilities or a group project that strengthened your teamwork. Translating academic experiences into professional competencies demonstrates the practical value of your degree.
Using Your AA as a Foundation for Further Education
An Associate of Arts degree is often called a “transfer degree” because it provides the first two years of a bachelor’s program. The general education courses for an AA fulfill the core requirements at a four-year college or university, allowing for a seamless transition. Many community colleges have articulation agreements with four-year institutions, guaranteeing that credits will be accepted toward a bachelor’s degree.
This educational path offers several advantages, with a primary one being cost savings. Since tuition at a community college is much lower than at a four-year university, earning an associate degree first allows students to complete half of their bachelor’s credits at a reduced price. This route also provides an opportunity to explore academic fields before committing to a major.
For a smooth transfer, work with academic advisors at both the community college and the prospective four-year university to ensure your courses will count toward your intended major. Completing an AA degree demonstrates a commitment to your education and builds a solid academic foundation for pursuing a bachelor’s degree.