Online Associate Degrees
You could achieve a quality education by earning your associate degree online from American InterContinental University. Enrolling in one of AIU’s online associate degree programs in business or criminal justice could be a first step on your journey to pursuing opportunities in those professional fields. It’s also a good option for those who would like to earn a college degree in a relatively short amount of time while laying the foundation for pursuing a more advanced degree, such as a bachelor’s, down the road.
Take the next step. Classes Start December 24, 2025
Complete this form and an AIU Admissions Advisor will contact you and provide further assistance.
Benefits of pursuing an AIU Associate Degree
AIU’s online associate degree programs offer a level of flexibility designed to help make earning your degree and pursuing your educational goals seem more attainable. You have the added convenience of choosing whether to attend as a full- or part-time student. The online curriculum is enhanced by AIU’s support network, comprised of faculty who can provide guidance, career services resources, and is designed to ensure you have the resources and information necessary to help you succeed on your educational journey.
Flexibility
Convenient and flexible online associate programs offer options designed to work around a busy schedule, allowing you to read, listen to, or watch customized course content from any web-enabled device.
Intellipath®
Intellipath® allows you to personalize your learning plan and skip what you already know, providing a more efficient educational experience.
Technical Support
Our students have access to our 24/7 technical support team.
Online Library
Provides access to articles, books, websites, and additional resources to assist with your coursework.
Associate Degree Programs- Admissions Overview
Those applying to AIU’s online associate degree programs must provide proof of high school graduation or an equivalent program by submitting their high school transcripts, high school diploma, or GED transcript or certificate. Homeschooled students should contact an Admissions Advisor for additional required documentation. Undergraduate students pursuing an online associate degree must additionally exhibit proficiency in English and math, but there are no SAT or other standardized test prerequisites to qualify for AIU’s associate degree programs.
Prospective students may find our list of answers to FAQs to be helpful. However, if you can’t find answers to all your questions here, one of our dedicated Admissions Advisors would be happy to provide you with additional support.
See the University Catalog for complete details.
Spend Less Time And Money On Your Degree Program With:
Transfer-In Credits
AIU accepts up to 75% of the qualifying credits required to complete your degree.1
AIU Accelerate
With AIU Accelerate, your prior experience and knowledge may be considered when pursuing your education.
Grants & Scholarships
AIU offers scholarships and grants that could help make classes more affordable for those who qualify.2
Bachelor’s Degree vs. Associate Degree
What is an associate degree and how is it different than a bachelor's? The major differences between an associate degree program and a bachelor's degree program are: (1) the time it takes to complete the degree program and (2) the depth of the curriculum. A bachelor's degree program takes longer to complete due to the greater number of courses and credits required. An associate degree requires fewer credits compared to a bachelor's because the program focus is typically on broad-based, foundational coursework.
1 Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. See the University catalog regarding AIU’s transfer credit policies.
2 University grants or scholarships are based on established criteria as published in the University Catalog or on its website and are awarded after verification that the conditions of eligibility have been met.
Accreditation
AIU's online associate business degree programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Additionally, the Military Times has ranked AIU among its 2021 Best Colleges lists. This annual survey provides a school-by-school assessment of veteran and military student services as well as rates of academic achievement.
AIU's Associate Programs
Adult learners can pursue two areas of study through AIU’s online associate degree programs. Those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of law enforcement, the U.S. court system, criminology, and other related topics may want to explore an online associate degree in criminal justice. In contrast, those interested in studying business or management may wish to learn more about the benefits of earning an online associate degree in business.
Associate of Arts in Business Administration
Our online business administration associate degrees program is designed to provide students the opportunity to build a solid foundation of knowledge in areas of accounting, marketing, economics, and practical business writing and speaking skills. Students can also study technology, including computer systems and applications used in larger corporations.
Online Criminal Justice Associate Degree
Our online criminal justice associate degree program is designed to explore the fundamentals of investigation and law enforcement, law and courts, and corrections and parole. Students pursuing this degree can also explore juvenile delinquency and the juvenile justice system. Specialized coursework is designed to provide an overview of the criminal justice system and theoretical perspectives in criminology. Topics also include an introduction to the American court system, where students can examine the structure and organization of the federal and state court system with particular attention on the criminal courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
AIU’s online associate degree programs include the Associate of Arts (AA) in Business Administration and the Associate of Science (AS) in Criminal Justice.
- Sales Representative - Engages with customers to promote and sell products or services while building client relationships..
- Administrative Coordinator – Supports business operations by managing schedules, handling communications, and overseeing administrative tasks.
- Program Management Analyst – Assists in evaluating and improving business programs by analyzing data, processes, and performance metrics.
Explore edcucation-related job positions and descriptions from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
*AIU cannot guarantee employment or salary. The list of career paths related to this program is based on a subset from the Bureau of Labor Statistics CIP to SOC Crosswalk. Some career paths listed above may require further education or job experience.
AIU’s online associate degrees are generally designed as two-year programs (see undergraduate degree requirements). Your actual completion time can be shorter or longer based on factors such as transfer credits, the number of courses you take each term, and any breaks you choose to schedule.
AIU’s online associate degree programs are designed to provide flexibility and career-focused coursework. AIU is a member of the American InterContinental University System. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The associate degree programs at AIU offer approximately five-week classes with frequent starts, dedicated student support and online resources, and multiple online associate options you can complete from anywhere.
To earn an associate degree online at AIU, the first step is to enroll in the fully online format and complete coursework in approximately five-week sessions. As an added benefit, there are frequent start dates, the opportunity to apply eligible transfer credits, and the option to choose a full- or part-time course load that fits your schedule. In addition, students have access to academic resources and 24/7 technical support to stay on track. Individual timelines may vary based on transferred credits, the number of courses taken each term, and any scheduled breaks.
To start on your path to pursuing a degree online at AIU, follow these steps:
- Explore AIU’s accredited program to review core courses in business administration or criminal justice—and see how each aligns with your educational goals.
- Review the admission requirements, which typically include a high school diploma or equivalent—AIU does not require SAT or ACT scores for enrollment.
- Evaluate tuition and financial aid options, including scholarships, grants*, or payment plans that may help make your education more accessible.
- Submit your application before the next term begins — once enrolled, familiarize yourself with AIU’s online learning platform to prepare for your courses and begin working toward your degree online.
*University grants or scholarships are based on established criteria as published in the University Catalog or on its website and are awarded after verification that the conditions of eligibility have been met.
What Students Are Saying About Their AIU Experience
AIU accommodated me by reaching out and someone was available to answer all questions morning, noon, evening, and weekends.Ebony L., Former Student 2024 Graduate, Associate of Business Administration