The Associate of Arts Degree is well-recognized in the USA. It includes of a number of general subjects which constitute the General Education Requirements in American Universities. In order to complete the A.A. degree a student needs to earn around 60-63 credits. After obtaining the A.A. Degree a student may proceed with his/her studies to earn another 60 credits (2 years) and earn a BA or B.S.

The advantage of earning an Associate of Arts degree in Sri Lanka is that it constitutes formal recognition of a student's academic achievement after two years, and it is often viewed as a terminal qualification for entry into the job market. In addition, many Colleges and Universities in the USA have articulation agreements with two year Colleges that offer the Associate degree. This means that students completing this degree may be admitted into the third year of a four year degree Program at State and Private Universities.The Associate of Arts degree is awarded by Excelsior College. The degree is open to students who complete at least 60 credits as follows: