An associate degree typically requires the completion of about 60 semester credit hours. This is the minimum standard commonly held by most institutions in the United States

. Key points include:

• The standard credit requirement is usually 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits, depending on the institution's calendar system

• These credits generally equate to around 20 courses, assuming most courses are 3 credits each

• Some programs may require slightly more credits, often between 60 and 65 credit hours, depending on the school and the specific degree (e.g., Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science)

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

In summary, most associate degrees require about 60 semester credits to complete, which typically takes about two years of full-time study