Associate Degree in Literature
The Associate Degree in Literature is a two-year program in the US that explores literary analysis and writing, preparing students for further studies or entry-level roles in education and communication.
About
The Associate Degree in Literature is a short-cycle higher education diploma in the US, typically completed in two years. It is designed for students interested in literature, writing, and critical thinking. This diploma suits those who want to deepen their understanding of literary works and develop strong communication skills. It can lead to entry-level jobs in education, publishing, or media, or serve as a foundation for further academic studies.
- This degree focuses on literary analysis and writing skills to build a solid understanding of different genres and periods.
- It is aimed at students who have completed high school and want a practical introduction to literature without committing to a four-year degree immediately.
- The program helps develop critical thinking and interpretation abilities useful in many professional fields.
- Graduates can work in roles related to education, media, or publishing, or continue their studies in related fields.
- The diploma offers a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills in reading, writing, and communication.
What you study
The program covers a variety of literary topics and writing practices over two years, with a gradual increase in complexity. Students start with foundational courses and move toward more specialized subjects. The curriculum combines reading, analysis, and writing assignments to develop a broad skill set.
- In the first year, students study introduction to literature and basic writing techniques, focusing on understanding texts and expressing ideas clearly.
- The second year includes advanced literary analysis,
, and exploration of different literary genres and historical periods. - Courses often involve reading classic and contemporary works from various cultures and styles.
- Students practice critical essays and research projects to improve analytical and communication skills.
- Some programs may include opportunities for group discussions and presentations to build confidence and teamwork abilities.
How to get in
Admission to an Associate Degree in Literature in the US generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent. The process is usually straightforward and open to a wide range of students interested in literature and writing.
- Candidates must have completed high school or hold a recognized equivalent diploma.
- Application involves submitting transcripts and sometimes a personal statement or writing sample to show interest in literature.
- Admissions are typically non-selective or moderately selective, welcoming students with varied academic backgrounds.
- Students should demonstrate basic skills in reading and writing in English.
- The program is accessible to those seeking to explore literature without immediate commitment to a four-year degree.
Day to day
A typical year in the Associate Degree in Literature involves regular classes, assignments, and some projects. The pace allows students to balance study with other activities, and practical work helps apply what they learn.
- Students attend several classes per week covering reading, writing, and discussion.
- Assignments include essays, reading reports, and presentations to develop comprehension and communication.
- Some programs may offer group projects or workshops to encourage collaboration.
- Internships or practical experiences are less common but possible in some institutions.
- The program is mostly classroom-based, without formal alternance or apprenticeship schemes.
Careers after further study
These careers require a higher level of study than this degree.
Continuing your studies
After earning an Associate Degree in Literature, students often continue their studies to deepen their knowledge or specialize. Many use this diploma as a stepping stone toward a bachelor's degree.
- Common next steps include enrolling in a bachelor's degree in literature, English, or related fields.
- Some students may choose to specialize in creative writing, education, or communication.
- The diploma can also support reorientation toward other humanities or social sciences programs.
- Many institutions offer credit transfer options to facilitate continuation of studies.
Where to study this degree (133)
Liste des 133 établissements
- Ohio Wesleyan UniversityDelaware
- Fontbonne UniversitySaint Louis
- Central Michigan UniversityMount Pleasant
- Manhattanville CollegePurchase
- Oral Roberts UniversityTulsa
- Rhode Island CollegeProvidence
- Marshall UniversityHuntington
- Lipscomb UniversityNashville
- Oklahoma City Community CollegeOklahoma City
- Bard CollegeAnnandale-On-Hudson
- La Salle UniversityPhiladelphia
- New York UniversityNew York
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh
- Pace UniversityNew York
- Sewanee: The University of the SouthSewanee
- Bennington CollegeBennington
- New SchoolNew York
- George Mason UniversityFairfax
- Tyler Junior CollegeTyler
- Northern Arizona UniversityFlagstaff
- University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles
- Capital Community CollegeHartford
- Hamilton CollegeClinton
- Grove City CollegeGrove City
- American UniversityWashington
- Harvard UniversityCambridge
- Duke UniversityDurham
- Hunter CollegeNew York
- Boise State UniversityBoise
- Eastern Michigan UniversityYpsilanti
- University of CincinnatiCincinnati
- Loyola University New OrleansNew Orleans
- Simmons UniversityBoston
- University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia
- CUNY Graduate School and University CenterNew York
- Illinois Wesleyan UniversityBloomington
- Calvin UniversityGrand Rapids
- Miami University-OxfordOxford
- Linfield CollegeMcMinnville
- George Fox UniversityNewberg
- Gannon UniversityErie
- Rocky Mountain CollegeBillings
- Marymount Manhattan CollegeNew York
- Center for Advanced Studies On Puerto Rico and the CaribbeanSan Juan
- Saint Martin's UniversityLacey
- Ave Maria UniversityAve Maria
- Ohio Northern UniversityAda
- Carroll CollegeHelena
- Bradley UniversityPeoria
- Southern Adventist UniversityCollegedale
- York College of PennsylvaniaYork
- Arcadia UniversityGlenside
- Lubbock Christian UniversityLubbock
- Mississippi CollegeClinton
- Rowan UniversityGlassboro
- Cornell CollegeMount Vernon
- University of Michigan–FlintFlint
- Pacific UniversityForest Grove
- Mesa Community CollegeMesa
- Paradise Valley Community CollegePhoenix
- Estrella Mountain Community CollegeAvondale
- Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater
- Maricopa Community Colleges - Glendale Community CollegeGlendale
- Yeshiva UniversityNew York
- SUNY ErieBuffalo
- Vermont Technical CollegeRandolph
- University of California-San DiegoLa Jolla
- Minnesota State University, MankatoMankato
- Phoenix CollegePhoenix
- University of Pittsburgh at JohnstownJohnstown
- Florida Southern CollegeLakeland
- Scottsdale Community CollegeScottsdale
- University of FindlayFindlay
- Central Washington UniversityEllensburg
- Villanova UniversityVillanova
- Bethany College - KansasLindsborg
- Indiana University BloomingtonBloomington
- Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of TheologyBrookline
- Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook
- Clarkson UniversityPotsdam
- Indiana University EastRichmond
- Grand Canyon UniversityPhoenix
- University of Pittsburgh at GreensburgGreensburg
- Chandler–Gilbert Community CollegeChandler
- Indiana University NorthwestGary
- Missouri State UniversitySpringfield
- San Diego State UniversitySan Diego
- Old Dominion UniversityNorfolk
- GateWay Community CollegePhoenix
- Dominican UniversityRiver Forest
- Rio Salado CollegeTempe
- Saint Mary's University of MinnesotaWinona
- Indiana University-IndianapolisIndianapolis
- Dordt UniversitySioux Center
- Indiana University SoutheastNew Albany
- Youngstown State UniversityYoungstown
- Dakota Wesleyan UniversityMitchell
- Thomas UniversityThomasville
- East Carolina UniversityGreenville
- Hamline UniversitySaint Paul
- Queens University of CharlotteCharlotte
- Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing
- Southwest Minnesota State UniversityMarshall
- Southwestern College - KansasWinfield
- Purchase CollegePurchase
- University at AlbanyAlbany
- George Washington UniversityWashington
- Antioch CollegeYellow Springs
- Swarthmore CollegeSwarthmore
- SUNY Westchester Community CollegeValhalla
- Andrew CollegeCuthbert
- Nassau Community CollegeGarden City
- University of Central OklahomaEdmond
- Excelsior CollegeAlbany
- Bard College at Simon's RockGreat Barrington
- Indiana University South BendSouth Bend
- Wilberforce UniversityWilberforce
- Hofstra UniversityHempstead
- Piedmont UniversityDemorest
- Lindenwood UniversitySaint Charles
- New Mexico State University-Dona AnaLas Cruces
- South Mountain Community CollegePhoenix
- Judson UniversityElgin
- The University of Texas at TylerTyler
- Summit UniversityClarks Summit
- Northern Kentucky UniversityHighland Heights
- Union Institute & UniversityCincinnati
- Touro CollegeNew York
- Davidson CollegeDavidson
- Lake Superior State UniversitySault Ste Marie
- Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken
- Blackburn CollegeCarlinville
- Johnson UniversityKnoxville
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Associate Degree in Literature?
The program typically lasts two years of full-time study, providing a solid introduction to literature and writing.
Can I work while studying this degree?
Many students balance part-time jobs with their studies, but the program itself does not usually include work-study or apprenticeship options.
Is this degree enough to become a teacher?
This degree alone is usually not sufficient to become a certified teacher, but it can be a first step toward further education in teaching.
What kind of writing will I learn?
You will practice academic writing, creative writing, and critical essays to develop a range of communication skills.
Are there opportunities for internships during the program?
Internships are not commonly required but may be available depending on the institution and local partnerships.
Can I transfer credits to a bachelor's program?
Yes, many institutions allow credit transfer from an Associate Degree to a related bachelor's degree to continue your studies.
What are the admission requirements?
You need a high school diploma or equivalent, and the admission process is generally open and not highly selective.
Is this degree suitable for students unsure about their career path?
Yes, it offers a broad foundation in literature and writing that can help clarify interests before pursuing a longer degree.


























