An associate degree typically requires the completion of 60 semester credit hours (or 90 quarter credits)**. This standard applies broadly across various institutions and associate degree types, including Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), and Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) programs

. Key points about the credit requirements:

• 60 credits generally equate to about 20 courses, assuming most courses are 3 credits each

• The credits usually include a combination of general education courses, major-specific courses, and electives

• Some variation may exist depending on the institution or program, but 60 credits is the commonly accepted minimum

• The degree typically takes about two years of full-time study to complete

In summary, to earn an associate degree, you need to complete approximately 60 semester credits, which are distributed across general education and specialized coursework depending on your program.