Associate of Arts
Build a strong foundation with a concentration you care about.
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Complete the form, and a member of our admissions team will contact you to tell you more about your program of interest.
The First Chapter in Your College Education
At North Central University, an Associate of Arts degree is a great way to start your college education and gain a strong foundation in the liberal arts. You’ll take courses in the humanities, the natural sciences, the social sciences, Bible, and research methodologies.
Support your studies in subject-focused courses with training in the fundamentals of communication and critical thinking. Additionally, you’ll gain a vocational foundation by selecting one of five concentrations, taught by experienced faculty mentors.
- On Campus: Complete this 61-credit program on campus as part of our Christian community.
- Affordable Tuition: Explore generous financial aid options available to all residential traditional undergraduate students.
- Christ-Centered Curriculum: Define and refine your faith at NCU, where classes and student life are rooted in Scripture and nurtured in community.
[North Central University] equipped me with the opportunities to not only further develop the skills I was interested in but also gave me practical real-world applications of those skills.”
Roman
Class of ’23
Why Earn an Associate of Arts Degree at NCU?
Earning an Associate of Arts degree at NCU is a unique opportunity to further your education and experience student life in a Christ-centered community. You’ll receive the same quality undergraduate education as bachelor’s degree students from caring faculty who are experts in their disciplines. With access to the energy and career connections of downtown Minneapolis, you’ll learn and grow in a community that cares about your personal, professional, and spiritual development in addition to your academic success.
The associate degree program requirements include core general education courses and a concentration, so you’re prepared to pursue your calling with clarity and confidence after graduation. Some students choose to continue on with a bachelor’s degree at North Central. An advisor and the Admissions team are available to help you consider the many pathways an A.A. can open up for you.
View the Academic Catalog for a full list of admission requirements and course listings.
Program Highlights
Build Career-Relevant Skills
Focus on Your Calling
Join a Supportive Network
Build Career-Relevant Skills
Transfer skills to future professional roles, including communication, computer literacy, logic and reasoning, and basic research methods.
Focus on Your Calling
Choose from five concentrations and explore subjects that support your God-given calling and vocation.
Join a Supportive Network
Small classes and faculty mentors lead to personalized learning and lasting peer relationships and professional networks.
Concentrations
Biblical and Theological Studies
In this concentration, you will participate in courses covering ancient languages, theology, biblical studies, and critical thought. This can enrich your personal faith and understanding of the Bible and help you discern next steps in ministry or a related calling.
Business
Study business best practices, management strategies, and communication theory and practice. You’ll learn not only business fundamentals but also how to lead a team with integrity. Graduate ready to apply new skills in the workplace, in volunteer roles, and in your family or community.
Communication Arts
Learn how and why humans communicate across history and cultures. Explore communication theories and modalities, such as film and storytelling, and learn the basics of modern languages and how to apply communication in business settings.
Humanities
Gain a deeper understanding of the arts and cultural influences that shape our societies. Choose classes in music, studio arts, church leadership and history, and sciences to round out your education.
Social Sciences
Take a closer, evidence-based look at human behavior and our social, emotional, and intellectual development. Choose classes in psychology, social work, and substance abuse counseling and prevention.
Learn From Industry Experts
Seasoned, credentialed faculty share their academic and career experience and a commitment to support students as you pursue your calling.
Explore Related Programs
Not sure how your calling translates into a degree? These programs may interest you:
A.A. in Church Leadership
B.A. in Global Studies
B.A. in Pastoral Studies
FAQs
Can I live on campus as an Associate of Arts Student?
Yes, the Associate of Arts program is an on-campus, residential undergraduate program. You will take classes and experience student life on our downtown Minneapolis campus with access to local opportunities.
NCU does offer some online A.A. degree programs in the School of Ministry and Worship. Please consider the online programs as well, but keep in mind that they are distinct from our residential program.
Am I eligible for financial aid?
Yes, 100% of residential undergraduate students receive financial aid at NCU. As an associate degree student, you may qualify for various forms of aid, so be sure to submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible for the year when you plan to enroll.
How do I know if an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree is right for me?
Choosing a degree path can feel intimidating. Please contact our Admissions team with any questions or concerns, and we will be happy to help!
An Associate of Arts program tends to cover many of the core courses and topics that you will find in a bachelor’s degree, as well as more focused courses that form a concentration, like traditional “major” courses. Associate degrees are shorter in duration and include fewer and usually less advanced courses, giving students a foundation to apply in a professional setting and an opportunity to discern if further education is a good fit.
If you choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree at NCU after completing our associate degree program, you can talk with Admissions and the registrar about which credits can be applied (if any) to continuing your education.