It typically requires 60-hours worth of credit to obtain an associates degree, which is the equivalent of five three-hour courses for 4 semesters. If the student takes classes in the intervening summer, then that can reduce the workload during the school year. Many students work while obtaining an associates degree, which can lengthen the process. | It typically requires 60-hours worth of credit to obtain an associates degree, which is the equivalent of five three-hour courses for 4 semesters. If the student takes classes in the intervening summer, then that can reduce the workload during the school year. Many students work while obtaining an associates degree, which can lengthen the process. |