The Different Types of Associate Degrees You Can Earn at Community College
April 15, 2019
An associate’s degree is a two-year degree that allows students to complete a program in as little as two years. At this time, they can start working in their desired field and earn an income. Jobs are more limited with an associate degree, but students can continue working toward a four-year degree while building experience.
Associate’s degrees are popular because they are fast and cost-effective. Students value their flexibility and the fact that they can enter the workforce in the foreseeable future. The earnings aren’t bad, either. Some of today’s highest paying jobs only require an associate degree, such as a dental hygienist, registered nurse, or physical therapist assistant.
Let’s explore the different types of associate degrees that you can earn at a community college.
Main Types of Associate Degrees
There are three types of associate degrees that can be earned at community colleges, trade schools, and vocational schools. Before choosing a degree program, consider what kind of job you are looking for, what requirements are needed, and if you need science-based or humanities-based qualifications.
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Associate of Arts (AA). An Associate of Arts degree covers general subjects that are related to the performing arts, such as arts, literature, and languages. An AA is best for students who plan on getting a bachelor’s degree in one of these areas. This degree is also highly versatile and opens up job opportunities in sales, management, and education.
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Associate of Science (AS). An Associate of Science program focuses more on math and science than art. While some students feel that this path is slightly harder, an AS opens up more opportunities and can be used for nursing, business administration, criminal justice, and technology.
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Associate of Applied Science (AAS). An Associate of Applied Science degree is best for students who want a higher education but are not interested in pursuing a four-year degree. These degrees are more targeted and focus on areas like human resources, customer relationship management, and entrepreneurship.
Start Working Toward Your AA or AS Today
Anyone can start working toward their associate degree, particularly those who are looking for the fastest and least expensive way to earn a degree and start working in their desired field. The best part about an associate degree is that it sets the foundation to earn a bachelor’s degree. You can start working and earning an income while finishing out your last two years of school online.
To learn more about earning your associate’s degree at a flexible, 2-year, affordable, community college in Alabama, contact Lurleen B. Wallace today.
