The Associate in Arts curriculum trains students to write effectively and think analytically, while allowing them to explore the nature of the various liberal arts fields of study. Students gain familiarity with a common framework of knowledge both classical and contemporary, enrich their existing knowledge of the world, and develop a broader framework for understanding social change in a global context. It can provide the basis for career advancement or for further study at the bachelor's degree level.

The Associate in Arts is offered by the Paul McGhee Division as an option for students who have fewer than 30 credits of previous college credit, in order to provide them with a viable credential at the mid-point of their studies. It is useful in the working world, and can provide the basis for various bachelors degrees. For students planning to continue for the McGhee B.A. program, the A.A. offers all the courses required for the Liberal Arts Core.

We recommend that students complete the McGhee Core Curriculum before the following requirements.