In basic education, most people believe that anyone has the potential of taking up any course that they feel is comfortable for them. However, an online associates degree is unique, it works for just about anyone who is willing to earn a degree. One has to pass a few tests for him or her to be able to earn any of these online associates degrees in any field. For success in any kind of unstructured coursework, one has to have self-motivation. One is required to have a high level of self-drive and the ability to work independently. This is needed because there is minimal supervision during learning. When you are self-motivated, it is easier to conduct your studies effectively as required and be careful enough to beat the set deadlines. An online associates degree is mostly constituted of reading and writing of assignments and not lectures as in traditional forms of learning. This requires that one possesses proficiency in reading and writing. Fluency in English writing is key to excellence in any online associates degree program.