Associate in Arts Degrees

The Associate in Arts (AA) degree provides a framework for understanding the disciplines and skills of a liberal arts degree, a foundation for further study at the bachelor's degree level, and an initial academic credential required for career advancement. The degree is awarded to students who successfully complete the equivalent of two years of undergraduate study. This program is offered either fully or mostly online. Students interested in the Natural Sciences and Mathematics concentration may need to take some courses on campus.

The courses completed for the degree count toward all Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies degree programs at WashU Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS).

Students preparing for a career in nursing are encouraged to enroll in the Associate in Arts in Pre-Nursing program. Students fulfill the same general education requirements as students in the regular AA degree program, but the program includes some preselected courses.

Note: The Associate in Arts degree program is open only to Washington University employees and partner program students.

WashU Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS) offers the Associate in Arts degree with concentrations in the following areas. Courses are selected from multiple departments within those areas rather than in a single department:

  • Natural Sciences and Mathematics: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth and Planetary Sciences, others with authorization
  • Social Sciences: Anthropology; Economics; Political Science; Psychology; Sociology; Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies; others with authorization
  • Humanities: Classics, History, Literature, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Art History and Archaeology, others with authorization
  • Professional Studies: Business*, Communications, Journalism, Health Care, Clinical Research Management, Sustainability, others with authorization**
*

Business-related programs at CAPS are not accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) at WashU. 

**

Business and Forensic Psychology certificates could be used to complete the majority of the Professional Studies area (15/18 units).

For more information about Associate in Arts degree requirements and policies:

Contact Info

Phone:314-935-6700
Website:http://caps.wustl.edu/programs/undergraduate/associate-arts