Associate of Arts
| Degree Type | Program Number | Program Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate of Arts and Science | 208001 | AALA | 60.00 |
| Typical Start | Learning Format | Financial Aid | Estimated Cost | Location | Area of Interest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer, Fall, Spring | In-Person, Online | Available | 13201 | La Crosse, Online | Liberal Arts |
Western's University Transfer programs are equivalent to the first- and second-year general education courses offered at traditional universities. Our Associate of Arts program prepares you for Bachelor of Arts programs in the University of Wisconsin System as well as many other four-year transfer partners. You can save thousands of dollars and earn the same bachelor's degree!
Our classes are tailored to fit your needs:
- Gaining knowledge and experience in the arts that broaden perspectives.
- Increasing problem solving abilities.
- Developing improved communication skills.
- Cultivating college-level literacy practices.
Choose courses that emphasize your individual educational goals! The AA degree is designed to provide essential soft skills for future careers and support transfer into arts, social sciences, or humanities degree programs.
If you have a particular college or university in mind, reach out to a Western College Advisor before selecting courses in order to develop a transfer plan or select one of the direct transfer plans developed with our four-year partners.
Admissions Requirements
- Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
- Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
- Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.
Program Outcomes
- Write and speak effectively for diverse audiences
- Apply reading comprehension skills in a variety of contexts
- Apply research methods for academic inquiry
- Develop mathematical reasoning and strategies to solve a variety of problems
- Examine physical phenomena using scientific tools and methods
- Grow in communicative language proficiency and cultural competence in a language other than English
- Use the tools and methods of the social sciences to explore historical and/or social phenomena.
- Develop an awareness of the embeddedness of prejudice, discrimination, and privilege in historical systems of thought and practice
Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025
| Graduates | 32 |
|---|---|
| Graduates Responding | 15 |
| Employed In Related Occupation | 6 |
| Employed In Non-related Occupations | 2 |
| Seeking Employment | 1 |
| Continuing Education | 6 |
| Not In Labor Market | 0 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Part Time in Related Occupation | 1 |
| PT Average Hours per Week | 10 |
| PT Median Annual Salary | $8,300 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Full Time in Related Occupation | 3 |
| FT Average Hours per Week | 45 |
| FT Median Annual Salary | $53,000 |
| Related Occupations | Adolescent Secure Worker, Community Outreach Specialist, Elementary Special Ed Teacher, Lactation Peer Counselor, Patient Registration Supervisor |
Software & Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Course Information
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See the 7-week sessions page for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.
Additional Information
How is this different from the Associate of Science program?
This program differs from the Associate of Science program in the following ways:
- 9 additional credits in the Humanities and Social Science categories
- 8 fewer credits in the Mathematics and Natural Science categories
- Minimum of 16 elective credits
Career Pathways
This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.
Prior Learning
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.
Certificates
There are currently no certificates associated with this pathway.
Technical Diplomas
There are currently no technical diplomas associated with this pathway.
Associate Degrees
There are currently no associate degrees associated with this pathway.