Associate in Arts Online Degree
Black Hawk College now offers an Associate in Arts (AA) degree that is 100% online.
An Online Option for Starting Your Education
The Associate in Arts degree (AA) is great for students who want to fulfill the general education courses to transfer to a specific four-year college or university, or for students who may still be deciding which major to pursue.
The first two years of a baccalaureate degree at a four-year college or university are devoted primarily to a general education core curriculum. Transfer students can complete these types of courses at Black Hawk College and then arrive at the transfer school well prepared for their major.
Other Benefits
- Dedicated online advisor.
- Eight-week or sixteen-week classes.
- Online AA Canvas orientation and resources.
How to Apply
Students interested in enrolling in the Online AA program will follow the same application process as traditional students, with one small difference. On your BHC application you will be asked: “Do you want to complete your Associate in Arts degree completely online, enrolling in only online coursework?” Simply choose yes.
Apply to BHCView the New Student Checklist
Online AA Requirements
The requirements for the Online AA degree are the same as those for the traditional AA degree.
The Associate in Arts degree (AA) provides a framework for equipping students who want to transfer and who wish to earn an associate degree from Black Hawk College. The AA is suitable for students who are selecting courses appropriate for their major at a specific four-year college or university or who are deciding which major to pursue.
The AA degree is widely accepted by transfer schools. Academic advisors work closely with students and four-year colleges and universities to choose suitable courses. Students may begin their transfer planning by reviewing Transfer Guides & Agreements. Students interested in exploring transfer colleges or universities should contact the Online AA advisor.
Online AA Learning Objectives
Students completing the Associates in Arts degree will be able to:
- Apply scientific thinking skills through the study of physical and life sciences
- Apply quantitative skills through the study of mathematics
- Apply communication skills through the study of speech and writing
- Evaluate human experiences through the study of the humanities and fine arts
- Develop an appreciation of human continuity, diversity and change through the study of social and behavioral sciences
New Online AA Degree Students
- View the New Student Checklist to learn more about starting at BHC.
- You will receive an email one to two business days after applying with information needed to set up your myBHC Student Portal. myBHC set-up info can also be found on the Technology Help page.
- Complete the Canvas module, “Online Learning Orientation.” This is an in-depth program that simulates an online class and is not expected to be completed in one sitting. It can be found under the “Register for Classes” tile in myBHC.
- Contact the online advisor (listed below) to schedule an appointment to register for classes once you have completed myBHC access (step 3) in the New Student Checklist.
Current and Returning Online AA Degree Students
The online advisor is available by appointment Monday through Friday. Students are required to meet with their online advisor for course selection and to register for online completely classes.
There are three ways you can make an appointment:
- Online through your myBHC account.
- By calling 309-796-5100.
- By emailing online@bhc.edu.
Tips for Success
Financial Aid
While tuition is affordable, Financial Aid through the FAFSA can still be an important resource for many students. The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and can help with tuition and book costs. More information about the FAFSA and benefits can be found on our Financial Aid page.
Learn More about Financial Aid


