* Credit Requirements: Associate's degrees generally require 60-64 credit hours.
* Course Load: Full-time students typically take 12-15 credit hours per semester. Part-time students take fewer.
* Semester Length: Semesters are typically 15-16 weeks long.
* Summer Courses: Taking summer courses can significantly reduce the time to graduation.
* Transfer Credits: Students may enter with prior college credits, shortening the program.
Typical Scenario: A full-time student taking a standard course load might complete an Associate's degree in 2 years (24 months). However, it could be shorter or longer depending on the factors above.