The online Associate in Arts degree makes it possible to build your education on a solid foundation. It’s a fully accredited, two-year degree program that satisfies the general education requirements for most bachelor’s degrees. Even if you have little or no previous college experience, you can earn an Associate in Arts degree and then take the next step towards your bachelor’s. It’s a great start to a new beginning.
Program Quick Facts
- 6 start dates per year: September, October, January, March, May, and July
- $435 per credit (2026–27)
- 60 credits
- 12 credits per semester (full-time attendance)
- 3 semesters per year equals 36 credits if attending full time
- $15,660 annual tuition costs (2026–27)
- Flexible, asynchronous program format
Highest Accreditation
Not all online programs are accredited—something you never have to worry about at NU.
Exceptional Education
80+ years of experience and knowledge went into creating our online courses.
Faith Integration
Every course includes a component that helps you relate the subject to your faith.
Faculty Who Care
Our instructors are experts who love students and bring out their very best.
Why Choose An Online Associate’s Degree at Northwest University?
Prepare for Success
An Associate in Arts degree offers a broad selection of courses in writing, the humanities, math, natural and social sciences, and Bible—all to ensure you are well prepared for your chosen major. As a result, you’ll pursue your field of study with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful.
Save Time and Money
At NU, you can earn your associate degree more quickly through our online courses. You set the pace.
Transfer with Confidence
Our top accreditation ensures that the credits you earn will easily transfer into NU or other universities.
Programs Built Around You
Attend class when it’s most convenient for you. If you’re working or have a family, you can customize a schedule that fits with your life. We work around your needs.
Distinguished Faculty
Build your academic success upon a well-rounded, quality education that incorporates time-proven values into every course taught by faculty with years of experience in their professional fields.
Proven Excellence
NU has been providing students with an exceptional education for 80 years. U.S. News & World Report recognizes us as a Top Value school.
View Course Descriptions
You can explore program details and course descriptions for this program in our academic catalog.
Go to the Catalog