Helms School of Government
Associate Degrees
Overview
Practice Servant Leadership with an Associate Degree from Helms School of Government
Pursuing an associate degree is an excellent option if you need a college degree in a shorter amount of time than a 4-year bachelor’s degree program offers. You can use an associate degree to enter the workforce at a higher salary, in a position that requires a degree, or as a chance to prepare for a 4-year bachelor’s degree.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, someone with an associate’s degree receives median usual weekly earnings around $169 higher than someone with just a high school diploma does.* Start your educational journey to a career that is meaningful to you as you use your associate degree to serve your community and reach your goals.
Through our School of Government, you can pursue either a criminal justice degree or government degree. If you decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree, you can transfer the credits from your associate degree to continue either online or residentially.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Earnings and unemployment rates by educational attainment, 2023 (viewed online May 12, 2025). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
Degree Programs
Government Associate Degree Programs
Criminal Justice (AA)
Government (AA)
Benefits
Why Choose Liberty’s Helms School of Government Associate Degree Programs?
Study with Purpose
As a student in the Helms School of Government, named after Senator Jesse Helms, you’ll explore conservative values and foundational principles that can help shape your future in public service, policy, or law enforcement.
Faculty with a Christian Worldview
Your courses are taught from a distinctly Christian worldview. You’ll be mentored by professors who hold doctoral degrees and bring years of real-world experience to the classroom, giving you both academic insight and practical perspective in criminal justice or government.
Join a Diverse and Supportive Student Community
Connect with students from all 50 states and over 70 countries as you grow personally and academically. Whether you’re collaborating in class or building friendships outside of it, you’ll be part of a community that supports your goals and reflects Liberty University’s mission of faith and excellence.
Develop Character and Critical Thinking
As a student in the Helms School of Government, you’ll be challenged to think critically and lead with integrity. Guided by the principles of duty, honor, and morality, your associate degree experience can help you build the character and ethical foundation for meaningful leadership.
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Experience Student Life at the Helms School of Government
Experience student life at the Helms School of Government and become part of a vibrant, values-driven community. As you pursue your associate degree in government or criminal justice, you’ll connect with classmates who share your passion for leadership, integrity, and public service. Whether you’re attending campus events, participating in student organizations, or building friendships that last a lifetime, you’ll find countless opportunities to grow both personally and professionally in a supportive, faith-based environment.
