Associate of Arts

This program is also on the Owatonna Campus

Why Choose the Associate of Arts (AA) Degree?

Not sure what you want to major in yet? The Associate of Arts (AA) degree is a flexible, affordable way to start your college journey. You will complete the first two years of a bachelor's degree while exploring your interests and preparing to transfer to a university.

Whether you are interested in business, education, psychology, healthcare, communications, or another field, the AA degree helps you build a strong academic foundation and keep your options open.

Is This Path Right for You?

Recent high school graduate: If you are not ready to commit to a major, the AA degree lets you explore subjects like business, psychology, biology, and more while earning credits that count toward almost any bachelor's degree.

PSEO or dual enrollment student: Courses you complete now through PSEO can count directly toward your AA degree, giving you a head start on your bachelor's degree before you even graduate high school.

Adult learner: The AA degree is available online and across all three Riverland locations, so you can build a schedule that works around your job and family. Advisors can also help evaluate any college credit you have already earned.

International student: The AA degree's general education foundation can support your transfer to a bachelor's program in the United States. Because transfer requirements can vary by school and program, meet with an advisor early to confirm your plan fits your goals.

Common Questions from Future Students

What can I do with an AA degree?

The Associate of Arts degree is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university to earn a bachelor's degree. Many Riverland graduates continue their education in fields such as:

  • Business
  • Education
  • Psychology
  • Criminal Justice
  • Social Work
  • Communications
  • Political Science
  • Biology
  • History
  • English
  • Pre-Law
  • Pre-Medicine

Will my credits transfer?

Yes. The Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) is widely accepted by Minnesota State and Colleges. Riverland advisors work with you to build a transfer plan that fits your academic and career goals.

How much money can I save?

Many students save money by completing their first two years at Riverland before transferring to a university, while receiving the same high quality education.

$7,132
Average yearly tuition and fees for a full-time Riverland student
$14,264
Estimated cost for your first two years (60 credits) at Riverland
About Half
The typical two-year cost at a four-year public university in Minnesota or Iowa

Sources: Riverland Cost of Attending and Riverland Tuition and Aid

What if I don't know my major yet?

You are not alone. Many students start college without a clear career path. The AA degree gives you time to explore different subjects, discover your interests, and work with advisors to find the right major and transfer pathway.

AA Degree Requirements at a Glance

  • Complete 60 semester credits, about four semesters of full time study.
  • At least 40 of those credits come from the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC), a set of general education courses widely accepted for transfer.
  • The remaining credits can be electives, any course numbered 1000 or higher.
  • One credit must be in health and wellness. Your advisor can help you pick a course that fits your schedule and interests.
  • Maintain a 2.0 GPA overall and within your MnTC coursework.
  • At least 20 credits must be completed at Riverland (12 credits if you are transferring from another Minnesota State college or university).
  • If you are new to college with limited transfer credit, your advisor will let you know if a short college success course is part of your plan.

View the full Minnesota Transfer Curriculum requirements

Explore Related AA Concentrations

Want to focus your AA degree around a specific interest? Riverland offers several concentrations and emphases:

Ready to Talk to an Advisor?

Fill out the form on this page and we will connect you with the right person to help you plan your AA degree and transfer path.

Related Programs

Last Updated: June 15, 2026

Quick Facts

  • Associate of Arts
  • 60 Credits | Four Semesters
  • Location: Albert Lea, Austin, Owatonna, 100% Online
  • Offering: Fall, Spring, Summer
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Start Your Bachelor's Degree at Riverland.

Riverland Community College is a great place to start because you can complete your first two years (60 credits) of college at Riverland and transfer those credits to a four-year college or university to complete a Baccalaureate (Bachelor's) Degree.

View Current Transfer Information

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