Things You'll Need:
- High school diploma or GED
- SAT, ACT or college entrance test score
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Step 1
Choose a field of study. There are many fields of study available at the associate's degree level. If you are not sure what you want to do, or if you wish to continue on for a bachelor's degree, then you can pursue a general course of study. Choosing the field of study will determine which courses you take and sometimes even which school you choose, so it is important to choose your field of study early.
Popular programs grant associate's degrees in art and design, business, education, engineering and construction, health care fields such as nursing and medical technology, hospitality, criminal justice, veterinary assistant and vocational fields. -
Step 2
Look for schools that teach your chosen degree. Often community colleges near you will have exactly what you need. Obtain a course catalog from the college and follow the application procedure to apply.
If you have not taken the SAT or ACT, or if your scores were lower than the college's minimum, you will have to take a college placement test. This test will determine your strengths and weaknesses. If you score poorly in any area, you may be required to take additional courses in that area before beginning your degree program. -
Step 3
Choose your classes. Although each degree program has specific classes that must be taken in order to graduate, you do have some elective choices. You should choose courses that you will enjoy and that will count toward the degree program that you have chosen. An average course load for a full-time student is 12 to 15 credit hours. It is possible to take more, but you should not overload yourself.
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Step 4
Work toward completing the required classes. Each degree program will have a specific list of classes that must be completed. Work with your adviser to be sure you are taking the appropriate required classes each semester so that you will be on track for a timely graduation.
If you find the work too hard for you, most schools offer free tutoring. Do not hesitate to ask for tutoring when you need it; even the best students occasionally require tutoring. Don't allow yourself to get overwhelmed before asking for help; seek help early. -
Step 5
For most full-time students, graduation takes approximately two years. When you have completed all of the required coursework and maintained the minimum GPA, you will be eligible for graduation. Usually, you will need to apply for the degree. See your guidance counselor for information on exactly how to apply for graduation.
