Area studies typically examine the development of a particular population or region. While other, similar interdisciplinary studies, such as gender, disability, and ethnic, may have some part in course discussions, these are not considered area studies.

An Associate of Arts degree is the stepping-stone for many students. After focusing on a field of study for two years at a vocational, technical, or community college, students can go onto finding better careers or earning a higher degree.

Part time learning allows one to obtain part-time degrees even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at his or own pace, gradually accumulating credits which count towards final qualification.