what are the benefits of an associate's degree

Benefits of an Associate Degree

1. Flexibility. An associate degree program offers flexibility in more than one way. For instance, there are many online...
2. Cost-effectiveness. The effect an associate degree has on cost is closely related to the amount of time it takes to...
3. Likeliness to graduate. Since associate degree programs usually take less time to finish and...

Full Answer

What type of jobs can I get with associates degree?

Associate degree jobs. Below is just a small sample of the types of jobs you can get with an associate degree, listed in salary order: 1. Preschool Teacher. National Average Salary: $12.56 per hour. Primary Duties: A preschool teacher works with young children, typically up to age five, daily.

How long does it take to obtain associates degree?

How long does it take to get an associate’s degree? Associates Degrees are worth roughly 60 credit hours. While the schedule you complete those credits on is flexible, most students choose to complete them in two calendar years.

Is bachelors degree better than associates degree?

Landing a job that will pay you more than $75,000 a year doesn’t require an MBA. In fact in many cases, it doesn’t necessarily require a bachelor’s degree.  Forget four-plus years of college studying and thousands in student loans, there are dozens of occupations that reward them workers for skills gained outside the classroom.

What should I get associates degree in?

Associate degrees are two-year degrees, so for someone who wants to get in, get out, and get to work, they are excellent options, especially the associate in applied science degree. While bachelor degree studies can take four years or more, and earning a doctorate can take a decade of focused education, an associates degree can take less than ...

Is an associate's degree in it worth it?

If you're deciding between no higher education degree at all and an associate degree, the answer is, quite simply, “Yes; getting an associates degree is worth it!” If you are hoping to break into a professional field and want to raise your job prospects, getting an associate degree is going to serve you much better ...

What are the disadvantages of an associate's degree?

ConsYou may be competing with people with bachelor's degrees for the same jobs. ... Your earnings may be lower than that for people with a bachelor's degree.Getting into managerial or supervisory positions may be difficult without a higher degree.

Can you get better jobs with an associate's degree?

These programs are known for focusing on helping students find a job in their field while also providing a high-quality education. Keep in mind that in some cases the best careers with associate degree programs can sometimes lead to jobs that pay higher than bachelor's degree careers.

What's the best associate's degree to get?

What Are the Highest-Paying Associate Degrees?Electrical Engineering. ... Aeronautics. ... MRI Technology. ... Radiology Technology. ... Respiratory Therapy. ... Occupational Therapy. ... Mechanical Engineering. ... Network Engineering. Network engineers design, administer, and maintain local and wide area network systems.More items...•

What is a benefits of getting an associate's degree before bachelors?

A new study out underscores the value of getting an associate degree, rather than just attending a community college, before transferring to a four-year university. It can increase the likelihood of completing a bachelor's degree, save students money, and improve their earnings compared with that of earlier transfers.

What 2 year degree makes the most money?

Highest Paying 2-Year DegreesRankMajorEarly Career PayRank:1Computer Science (CS) & MathematicsEarly Career Pay:$45,5002Nondestructive TestingEarly Career Pay:$49,9003Radiation TherapyEarly Career Pay:$65,3004Software EngineeringEarly Career Pay:$53,60021 more rows

Can you make a lot of money with an associate's degree?

Attending community college and earning an associate degree can lead to an annual salary of more than $50,000.

What career makes the most money with an associate's degree?

MRI technologists, nuclear technicians, funeral service managers, and dental hygienists all earn over $70,000 a year, on average, making their respective degrees among the best associate degrees by salary.

What are the different types of associate degrees?

Different types of associate degrees are available. The kind you should choose will depend on the type of career you’re interested in, as well as other factors, such as whether or not you plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree afterwards. These are the main types of associate degrees, but keep in mind that there can be several specific degree programs that fall under these broader categories: 1 Associate of Science: An Associate of Science degree includes several courses in science, math, or both, along with any other coursework students need for their particular degree program. For example, students can pursue an Associate of Science degree with a focus on legal studies, early childhood education, criminal justice, marketing, accounting, or management. These degrees are common among students who plan to earn a bachelor’s degree or higher after getting an associate degree. 2 Associate of Arts: This degree is also a common choice for students who want to work toward a higher degree after earning an associate degree, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree. An Associate of Art degree includes several courses in the humanities, social sciences, or both. 3 Associate of Applied Science: An Associate of Applied Science degree tends to offer more targeted courses based on a student’s major instead of general education courses. 4 Associate of Applied Business: This degree also typically offers courses that are more focused on a student’s major rather than more general college courses.

How long does it take to get an associates degree?

Associate degrees typically only take 2 years to complete compared to 4 years for a bachelor’s degree or 6 or more years for a bachelor’s plus a master’s degree. When you want to earn a college degree and get started on your career as soon as possible, associate degrees provide you with a faster way to do so.

What is an associates degree in science?

Associate of Science: An Associate of Science degree includes several courses in science, math, or both, along with any other coursework students need for their particular degree program. For example, students can pursue an Associate of Science degree with a focus on legal studies, early childhood education, criminal justice, marketing, accounting, ...

Why do people think twice about getting a degree?

Lower Tuition. The rising cost of tuition for higher education is one of the main reasons for people to think twice about getting a degree. In fact, college costs have gone up 25 percent over the past decade. This increase has been even more significant over the past few decades.

What is the benefit of having an associates degree?

With an associate degree, you’ll have a better chance at finding plenty of job opportunities to choose from, no matter what the current unemployment rate is. Whether you plan on starting a new career or advancing in your current career, this kind of degree can open a lot of professional doors for you.

How much does an occupational therapy assistant make?

For example, an occupational therapy assistant can earn a median pay of $59,200 a year or $28.46 an hour, while a computer programmer can earn a median pay of $86,500 a year or $41.61 an hour.

Do associates cost more than bachelors?

Associate degrees generally cost less than what you might pay for tuition when you join a bachelor’s degree program. You’ll pay even more if you plan on earning a master’s degree or higher. With an associate degree, you can start working in your field earlier without having to shoulder the burden of high tuition costs.

What does an associates degree mean?

The number of employers who are seeking employees who have an associate degree over those who have just a high school diploma is increasing. Many employers are requiring that candidates possess a minimum of an associate degree for all types of job openings.

How much do associates earn?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, workers who have an associate degree earn about $8,000 more per year than those with only a high school diploma. This can add up to a lot of money over a lifetime making it worth the time and effort to earn an associate degree.

How long does it take to get an associates degree?

Typically only taking two years or less to complete, an associate degree can provide more opportunities and higher pay in today’s job market. If you choose to earn your degree at a private college, such as Fremont College, an Associates degree can be obtained in as little as 15 months. Continue reading to learn about the many advantages of earning an associate degree and how it can lead to career success.

How long does it take to get an associates degree at Fremont College?

It takes just 15 months to earn an associate degree at Fremont College, which means you will be able to utilize your skills in just over a year. Learn more about our associate degree programs and choose the one that is right for you. Don’t wait another day – take the first step on the path to career success by enrolling at Fremont College today!

What is the advantage of an associates degree?

As a result, tuition and other costs can be significantly lower. If a student is concerned that she or he may not have the resources to fund four whole years of classes, an Associate’s degree could be an appealing alternative.

Can you transfer your associates degree to a bachelors?

An Associate’s degree doesn’t have to be the end of the road. The credits earned for your Associate’s may transfer toward a Bachelor’s, putting that goal within your reach. And holding an Associate’s degree could mean earning more while pursuing the Bachelor’s degree, if you decide to continue your education.

You can transfer to a four-year institution easily

Many states guarantee admission into their public four-year colleges for students who earn associate degrees at one of their community colleges.

Everyone is welcome

FRCC and other community colleges have an open enrollment policy, which means adults over the age of 17 with or even without a high school diploma or GED are guaranteed admission. Even if your high school GPA wasn’t too impressive, it’s OK.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michaele Charles is the founder of Voice Communications and writes frequently for higher education institutions, small businesses, corporate clients, and others. In her pre-writing life, she worked in accounting and finance and she has written stories for various children’s magazines.

How many years of school should I spend on a career change?

It’s time for a career change—and you’re starting to think that a formal education is the key to opening those new doors. You know one thing for sure – you’d rather not spend four years in school before launching your new career. Spending two years or less earning an associate’s degree seems a little more manageable.

Why do I hold off on getting an associates degree?

Maybe you’ve held off on pursuing a degree because you’re not exactly sure where you want your career path to lead in the future. The courses you’ll encounter in an associate’s program will introduce you to a range of topics within your industry of choice.

Why do you need options in associates?

More options means you’ll have a better chance of finding a career that’s a great fit for you.

Can you get an associates degree later?

Not only can your associate’s degree introduce you to your true career interests, it can also pave the way for further education down the road. If you ever choose to earn a bachelor’s degree later, many schools will wave credits for prior education or offer other opportunities to build upon your previous degree.

How much does an associates degree pay?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, associate degree jobs pay an average salary of $56,590.

What is the best degree to get if you don't have a bachelor's degree?

If you would rather not spend four years in college pursuing a bachelor’s degree, an associate’s degree may be a great alternative. With associate degree jobs usually paying a very reasonable salary, it’s easy to see why so many students opt for a 2 year degree.

What are the different types of associates degrees?

The three most common types of associate’s degrees are: 1 Associate of Arts (AA) 2 Associate of Science (AS) 3 Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

How long does it take to get an associates degree?

Completing an associates degree usually only takes two years, whereas a regular bachelor’s degree program usually takes four years to complete. Associates degrees are typically less expensive, and you may be able to pay off loans much quicker because you start earning earlier.

How many credit hours are required for an associates degree?

Most associate degree programs are 60 credit hours. At most colleges, the majority of your credits will be general education credits required of all students. The remaining credit hours can be used for your major field of study, as well as elective courses.

What is Indiana Wesleyan University?

Indiana Wesleyan University. As a recognized leader in higher education since 1920, Indiana Wesleyan University empowers busy adults to reach their educational goals, advance in their careers, and find a fulfilling life all within a supportive, faith-based environment.

Is an associates degree more affordable?

An associate’s degree program is typically much more affordable and can spare you from large debt burdens. Associate’s degrees usually prepare you for a specific career. If the job you want doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree qualification, an associate’s degree may be a suitable path.

Is unemployment higher with a bachelor's degree or associate's degree?

Though unemployment rates are typically lower and earnings are higher for those who complete a bachelor’s degree than those who earn an associate degree, the two degrees offer different advantages and disadvantages.

Is an associates degree worth it?

If you’re deciding between no higher education degree at all and an associate degree, the answer is, quite simply, “Yes; getting an associates degree is worth it!” If you are hoping to break into a professional field and want to raise your job prospects, getting an associate degree is going to serve you much better than just having a high school diploma.

What is the difference between a bachelor's degree and an associate's degree?

The primary difference between an associate degree and a bachelor's degree is the time each takes to complete. An associate degree is a two-year program, and a bachelor's degree is a four-year program. There are many careers you can pursue with an associate degree only, but obtaining a bachelor's degree might offer additional opportunities.

What are the different types of associate degrees?

Some other associate degrees that many colleges offer include: 1 Associate of Applied Arts 2 Associate of Forestry 3 Associate of Engineering 4 Associate of Industrial Technology 5 Associate of Business Administration 6 Associate of General Studies 7 Associate of Applied Business 8 Associate of Fine Arts 9 Associate of Pre-Engineering

What is an associate degree?

An associate degree is a two-year college degree at the undergraduate level. Associate degrees are available at many universities, colleges, technical colleges and community colleges. Students in an associate degree program often study general education requirements and courses specific to their area of study.

What is an A.A. degree?

Students often pursue an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree as a first step toward getting a bachelor's degree. Many AA degrees are transferable, which means the credits count toward a student's bachelor's degree. Additionally, the focus of many A.A. degrees is not associated with a specific job or career. The classes students pursuing an A.A. degree take are very similar to what students take in their first two years of a bachelor's degree, including general education courses and humanities courses.

Is an associates degree better than a bachelors?

One benefit of an associate degree is that the costs are lower compared to a bachelor's degree, especially at the same educational institution. However, depending on your field, you may find that a bachelor's degree offers greater earning potential. A student with an associate degree can decide later if they want to pursue a bachelor's degree, ...

Is an A.S. degree more science focused?

An A.S. degree is often more science-focused than an A.A. degree and typically involves more math and science courses. However, not all A.S. degrees solely focus on science-related topics. Certain A.S. degrees, such as business or graphic design degrees, are less focused on science specifically.