IS YOUR TARGET DEGREE...?: Associate Degree

Associate Degrees: Associate Degree Programs

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A US associate degree is a 2-year degree given by two types of colleges upon completion of an associate degree program. The three classes of US associate degrees offered are the associate of arts degree (also called the A.A. degree), the associate of applied science degree (also called the A.A.S. degree), and the associate of science degree (A.S. degree). US Community colleges offering associate degree programs are operated by the local government and are financed by public funds. US junior colleges offering associate degree programs are generally privately run. Both are excellent options for those wanting to earn an associate degree.

There are three general groups of students that generally pursue and enroll in an associate degree program: (1) students who do not want to pursue a bachelor degree but want to attend a US community college, enroll in an associate degree program, and pursue an associate degree; (2) students who want to pursue a but who want to complete the first two years of their undergraduate education (by enrolling in one of the many associate degree programs) at a US community college and then transfer to a four-year US college for the last two years; (3) members of the local community want to attend associate degree program classes in various subjects at US community colleges without pursuing any type of degree or enrolling in formal associate degree programs (this is called “continuing education”). Here is our list of top US community colleges and junior college offering associate degree programs

The tuition for associate degree programs at US community colleges is typically much less than at a four-year college or university, even a public one. Therefore many American students choose to attend a US community college for two years and enroll in one of the many associate degree programs as a way of lowering the cost of getting a bachelor’s degree in the USA. US community colleges offer a great education in the way of associate degree programs at a great price. More and more international students are now becoming aware of the opportunities offered by US community colleges in the way of associate degree programs. Note that as with any US public college, the tuition for international students and for students who are residents of another state will be higher than the tuition for residents of the state where the US community college offering the associate degree program is located. However, it will still be lower than what an international student would pay at a public four-year college. Students on a tight budget should consider associate degree programs at US community colleges and junior colleges as way to cut costs.

US Junior colleges also offer associate degree programs and are very similar to US community colleges except that some are privately funded and, therefore, are not always as economical. It is important to make sure that the associate degree programs you are considering are fully accredited and the associate degree units you earn transferable. The best way to verify if associate degree programs are accredited is to ask major universities if they would recognize an associate degree from that community college or junior college. Search our list of top US community colleges and junior college offering associate degree programs. Or check out our list of schools offering online associate degree options.

Associate Degree Advantages

· An associate degree can be completed in approximately two years.

· Many skilled professions and high-paying jobs require an associate degree in a specialized field.

· An associate degree is much cheaper than a bachelor's degree.

· Most cities have two year colleges situated conveniently so that you will most likely have more associate degree options.

· Associate degree holders are now more sought after than ever before due to the increased favorable reputations of many community and junior colleges.

Associate Degree Quotes

"I chose to enroll in an associate degree program at a community college. It saved me money, which I then used to get a bachelors degree. I would highly recommend an associate degree to anyone."

-Jennie Montash-

"I earned an associate degree in criminal justice and now earn 30% more than I did before."

-Michael Ford-

"After getting my associate degree, I enrolled in a university, got my bachelors, and now am on my way to an MBA."

-Vicki Lee-

According to the Census Bureau, associate degree holders earn about $1.6 million in their lifetime.

Learn more about a bachelor degree

Learn more about a masters degree: master degree guide.

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