Jun 12, 2026  
2026-2027 University Bulletin Working Copy 
    
2026-2027 University Bulletin Working Copy

Liberal Arts and Sciences - A.A.

Location(s): Chicago Campus


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Chicago Campus

The Associate of Arts (AA) Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences at Dominican University prepares a student to be a successful, accomplished, and independent human being. Our liberal arts AA degree opens doors to a world of knowledge and to rewarding and responsible careers in technology, health, legal, and human services. The AA degree program at Dominican is intentionally designed around a small cohort model at the Chicago campus. We are a learning and living community integrated into the historical Pilsen neighborhood. While we encourage students to live on campus for the first year of the program, we also welcome commuter students join our program. The curriculum is career-focused and transfer-ready, offering courses that, in addition to the Dominican Liberal Arts Core, prepare students to continue pursuing higher degrees with the option of acquiring certifications that suit students’ career goals at their own pace. Student advising and access to holistic support services will promote student success and engagement. The coursework is aligned to the Dominican University Core Curriculum and the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI). Upon completion, students can transfer to Dominican University bachelors programs as well as other IAI participating bachelor’s degree institutions.

Online

Dominican University understands the challenges of balancing work, family, and personal commitments.  That’s why our online Associate Degree program is designed to provide the flexibility, support, and career-focused education adult learners need to succeed.  Developed in partnership with employers and aligned with workforce demands, the program equips you with in-demand skills, stackable credentials, and a clear pathway to both career growth and bachelor’s degree completion. 

Degree Requirements


Students must complete a minimum of 62 credit hours to earn the associate of arts.

A minimum of 32 credit hours must be completed at Dominican, including the final 15 credit hours.

General Education Core Courses


City as Campus


Students take City as Campus  all 4 semesters. Health Care Concentration students, take the first 3 semesters.

3-4 credits

Career-Focused Concentration


Students must select at least one career-focused concentration.  Concentrations are aligned with a variety of bachelors programs at Dominican University; students should select their concentration(s) in consultation with an academic advisor.

If students choose to complete their academic career at the AA level, students will have the option to take a certification exam to apply for jobs in the fields of their concentration. 

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