Online associate degree programs in arts and humanities

If higher education is your goal, but you're not sure what career you would like to pursue, consider starting with an online associate degree in liberal arts or general studies. With these online associate degrees, you can choose from an array of interdisciplinary courses in the liberal arts and humanities that help prepare you for a bachelor's degree, while giving you time to consider your next steps.

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What to expect from liberal arts degree programs

An associate degree in arts and humanities ignites your passion for learning through a variety of coursework designed to stimulate and inspire. Unlike targeted vocational training, liberal arts degree programs offer an education with a broader focus. You'll find accredited colleges and universities offering online associate degrees in such areas as:

Communications
English
Psychology
Religious studies

Seek out an education that aligns with your interests and find a course of study that truly interests you. Whether your goal is to expand an artistic portfolio, explore your career options, or simply enrich your mind, general studies degree programs offer an attractive alternative to targeted job training.

Careers for arts and humanities degree graduates

While general studies degree programs may not put you on an established career track, an associate degree gives you a strong base of formal education. Many students use their time in arts and humanities associate degree programs to choose a targeted bachelor's degree major and go on to complete more education. Take a look at just a few jobs possible with an associate degree. Salary information is provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

Meeting and convention planners identify the purpose and message of a convention or meeting and coordinate every aspect of the event. Being detail-oriented and staying calm under stress are highly desirable, as is the willingness to travel. Although a bachelor's degree is often preferred, job seekers with an associate degree and office experience often get a foot in the door in this exciting and growing field. May 2009, mean annual salary for meeting and convention planners: $44,260.

Secretaries and administrative assistants coordinate the administrative functions of an office through such tasks as managing projects, and organizing, storing and retrieving office information to staff and clients. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are an asset in this position. May 2009, mean annual salary for secretaries and administrative assistants: $29,050. May 2009, mean annual salary for executive secretaries and assistants: $40,030.

Teacher assistants work in primary and secondary school classrooms, providing much-needed support for teachers and individual attention for students. Nearly half of all teacher assistants work part-time. May 2009, mean annual salary for teacher assistants: $24,280.

Explore associate degree programs in the arts and humanities

No general studies degree program can guarantee a particular job or salary, and most of the careers above can be furthered from additional training and work experience. However, an associate degree in arts and humanities is an excellent first step along these paths and others like them.

Your goal in an arts and humanities degree program should be to immerse yourself in coursework related to the subjects that interest you and explore your interests from different angles. Online associate degrees allow you to undergo that exploration from home, on your own time. Learn more about by arts and humanities majors by exploring the schools on our site and visiting WorldWideLearn's Online Education Guide to Majors in Arts & Humanities.