Types of Associate Degrees: Overview
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Are you looking to jumpstart your career, further your education, or explore a new field? An associate degree may be the ideal path for you. In this blog, we’ll break down the different types of associate degrees, their unique benefits, and how to find the right program for your goals.
"What Are Associate Degrees?"
Associate degrees are undergraduate degrees typically offered by community colleges, junior colleges, and some four-year universities. They generally require about two years to complete if attending full-time and provide specialized knowledge and skills for various career paths. They are more advanced than a high school diploma but less extensive than a bachelor’s degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with associate degrees earn, on average, about 20% more than those with just a high school diploma.
Why Choose an Associate Degree?
Associate degrees offer several unique benefits:
- Affordability: Associate degrees are significantly less expensive than four-year degrees, making them an accessible and cost-effective option.
- Flexibility: Many associate programs offer night and online classes, making them ideal for those who need to balance work or other commitments.
- Career-Focused Options: Many associate degrees, especially applied degrees, provide hands-on training, making graduates career-ready.
- Transfer Potential: Some associate degrees allow students to transfer to a bachelor’s program with credits that count toward the next degree.
"Types of Associate Degrees"
There are several types of associate degrees, each with different outcomes, from career-focused training to transfer-ready academic foundations. Here’s an in-depth look at each type:
1. Associate of Arts (AA)
An Associate of Arts (AA) degree offers a broad-based liberal arts education, typically covering subjects like humanities, history, literature, communication, and social sciences. With about 60 credits, this degree serves as a foundational path for students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Best For: Students interested in careers in the arts, humanities, education, or social sciences. Common transfer majors include psychology, sociology, political science, economics, and communications.
Career Options: Though many AA graduates go on to earn bachelor’s degrees, those who enter the workforce may find opportunities in roles such as administrative assistant, social services assistant, or teaching assistant.
Transfer Potential: AA degrees often transfer easily to four-year institutions, allowing students to start as juniors instead of freshmen, saving time and money on their bachelor’s degree.
2. Associate of Science (AS)
An Associate of Science (AS) degree is similar to an AA but focuses more on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Students can expect to take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and mathematics, with some liberal arts electives.
Best For: Students aiming to work in or continue studying technical fields like engineering, health sciences, data analysis, or computer programming. AS degrees are ideal for those planning to transfer to a four-year program in a STEM field.
Career Options: Graduates often work as lab technicians, IT support specialists, or medical assistants, though many go on to pursue advanced degrees in areas like computer science, healthcare, or engineering.
Transfer Potential: AS degrees are also designed to transfer to four-year universities, and students can enter with junior status in many STEM-related majors.
3. Associate of Applied Arts (AAA)
An Associate of Applied Arts (AAA) degree prepares students for direct entry into the workforce, focusing on hands-on skills for specific careers in the arts. Unlike the AA, which is more academic, the AAA is career-oriented and might include practical training in areas like graphic design, media production, interior design, or theater.
Best For: Students looking to enter creative fields and who prefer hands-on learning, such as in design, digital media, or music production.
Career Options: Graduates are well-suited for roles in fields like graphic design, multimedia production, and advertising. Depending on the industry, they might start as graphic designers, production assistants, or sound technicians.
Transfer Potential: While the AAA degree is not typically intended for transfer, some schools may accept credits toward a bachelor’s program in related fields.
4. Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is a career-focused program similar to the AAA but with a focus on science-related fields. It’s geared toward students who want to enter technical or healthcare fields right after graduation, covering topics such as health information, medical assisting, IT systems, and accounting.
Best For: Those interested in fields like healthcare, business administration, automotive technology, or criminal justice who want a more direct route into the workforce.
Career Options: AAS graduates often pursue careers as dental hygienists, radiologic technologists, IT support specialists, and paralegals. These careers usually require specific technical training, which the AAS provides.
Transfer Potential: Like the AAA, the AAS is not commonly designed for transfer, though some schools may have articulation agreements with four-year institutions.
5. Certificate Programs
Certificate programs are not degrees but short-term, specialized training programs that focus on developing career-specific skills. They can range from a few months to a year in duration and are ideal for students who want to upskill or change careers quickly. Certificates are available in fields like cybersecurity, web development, data science, and project management.
Best For: Individuals looking to quickly gain or improve skills for a specific job, including professionals changing careers or advancing in their current field.
Career Options: Certificate holders can work in areas like digital marketing, software development, healthcare support, or financial services, depending on their program.
"How to Choose an Associate Degree Program"
Choosing the right program involves careful consideration of your goals, interests, and resources. Here’s how to make an informed decision:
1. Identify Your Career Goals
Think about your ultimate career or educational goals. If you aim to enter the workforce directly after two years, an applied degree (AAA or AAS) or a certificate may be ideal. If you’re considering a four-year degree in the future, an AA or AS will likely be a better fit, as these degrees offer a more transferable curriculum.
2. Assess the Program Requirements
Some programs have specific entry or completion requirements. For example, allied health programs may have prerequisites or selective admissions. Check the program requirements on each school’s website and discuss them with a counselor to ensure you’re well-prepared.
3. Review Course Offerings and Faculty
Explore the curriculum in detail to ensure that the courses align with your interests. Research the program’s faculty members and see if they have experience in the fields you’re interested in. Look for schools with resources like career counseling, tutoring, and internship programs, as these services can be valuable in your educational journey.
4. Consider Cost and Financial Aid
Associate degrees are generally more affordable than bachelor’s programs, but costs can still vary widely. On average, associate programs cost about $3,800 annually. Explore financial aid, grants, and scholarships available at each school to reduce costs. If you’re pursuing a certificate or applied program, you may be eligible for industry-specific scholarships as well.
"Finding the Right Community College Near You"
Community colleges are a common choice for earning an associate degree or certificate. They offer a variety of programs, flexible class schedules, and support services for students. Use tools like CollegeVine’s FREE Schools Hub or other online directories to find community colleges in your area.
Community colleges are known for their smaller class sizes, which can foster a closer learning environment, and their affordability, allowing students to access higher education without significant debt.
Choosing an associate degree that fits your career goals can be a valuable investment in your future. With options ranging from academic-oriented degrees to hands-on career programs, there’s something for everyone. Research your options, set clear goals, and find a program that aligns with your aspirations. Remember, whether your goal is to enter the workforce quickly or prepare for further education, an associate degree can open doors to new opportunities.
