Before Enrolling in an Associate's Degree Program

• 1). Do some research and make notes about the types of journalism that might interest you. Explore the various aspects of each type (typical working conditions, typical pay scale, typical benefits and perks, and any negative or undesirable aspects of the job) to narrow your selection criteria.
  
  
• 2). Research and identify institutions that offer an associate's degree program in the type of journalism you want to study.
  
  
• 3). Contact the institutions to inquire about their admission criteria, costs and degree offerings. This is the time to ask about what courses they require, class schedules and the typical time it takes to earn the degree.
  
  
• 4). Request the necessary admission and financial aid application forms, then apply to the institutions that best fit your needs.
  
  

After Being Accepted in an Associate's Degree Program

• 1). Maintain your focus and take the courses that will fulfill your degree requirements. Your student adviser will be able help you make appropriate course selections to achieve your goal.
  
  
• 2). Study, attend classes, turn in required papers and essays on time, and pass the course exams so that you will meet or exceed the minimum grade requirements for your associate's degree.
  
  
• 3). Prepare your petition for matriculation at the conclusion of your associate's degree program. Review it with your student adviser to make sure you have met all the requirements for the institution to grant your degree.