Should You Earn an Associate Degree Online?

If your job is becoming stale, you may be contemplating a career upgrade. One of the best ways to obtain a better, higher-paying job is by earning an associate degree. If you have never considered enrolling in a higher education program, this path may seem intimidating. Keep reading and you will learn everything you need about whether an online associate degree is worth your time.

What is an Associate Degree?

An associate degree is an undergraduate academic credential typically offered by community colleges, technical schools, and some universities. They introduce fundamental concepts in your chosen field of study and are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge for entry-level positions. They usually take around two years of full-time study to complete, although the duration can vary based on the program and whether a student attends part-time or full-time.

A bachelor’s degree, on the other hand, is a more extensive and in-depth program that requires at least four years of study. It delves deeper into the curriculum, allowing you to better understand theoretical principles, critical thinking skills, and specialized knowledge. Bachelor’s degree programs are commonly offered at universities and colleges, and they aim to prepare students for more advanced roles in their chosen professions. Additionally, bachelor’s degrees often include general education requirements that contribute to a well-rounded education.

While both degrees can be valuable, they cater to different academic and professional objectives. An associate degree may be pursued for a quicker entry into the workforce or as a cost-effective way to explore a field of interest. In contrast, a bachelor’s degree is often viewed as essential for career advancement, as it provides a more comprehensive education and is frequently a prerequisite for higher-level positions and specialized roles. The decision between the two depends on your individual goals, career aspirations, and your desired level of expertise in a particular subject area.

If you wish to start earning an associate degree, it is important to know that many of your credits can transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. This means that if you earn an associate degree in two years, you should be able to complete your bachelor’s degree in another two years, provided both degrees are in similar disciplines. You will want to check with your college about transferring your credits, and they can tell you exactly what will transfer into a bachelor’s program.

What Associate Degree Should You Earn?

What degree you choose to earn is a very personal choice, and you should make your decision only after carefully considering your career goals, the amount of time you have to devote to classes, and the cost of going back to school.

So you understand the lingo as you compare programs, there are primarily two types of associate degrees:

Associate of Arts (AA): This degree is generally associated with liberal arts and humanities disciplines. It often includes courses in subjects like English, history, social sciences, fine arts, and languages. An AA degree can serve as a starting point for further education in fields like psychology, sociology, education, or humanities-related disciplines.

Associate of Science (AS): The AS degree is commonly linked to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. It involves coursework in subjects like mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, engineering, and related sciences. An AS degree can lead to careers in technology, healthcare, and engineering, or as a foundation for further studies in science-related disciplines.

Can You Earn an Associate Degree Online?

If you are a working professional, going back to school to earn an associate degree may seem daunting – you don’t want to miss work and you may have family responsibilities, as well. For these reasons, an online degree program may be the best solution for you. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of an online program:

• Job Opportunities. An associate degree can qualify you for exciting entry-level positions in fields like healthcare, technology, business, or skilled trades.
• Cost-Effectiveness. Associate degree programs are often more affordable than bachelor’s degree programs. Completing an associate degree at a community college or technical school can save money on tuition and related expenses.
• Time Efficiency. Associate programs are typically shorter, taking about two years to complete. This allows you to enter the workforce sooner or to continue your education at a four-year institution.
• Transferable Credits. Many colleges and universities accept transfer credits from associate degree programs. This allows you to save time and money on completing a higher-level degree.
• Focused Training. Associate degrees often provide specialized training, offering hands-on experience and practical skills relevant to the job market.
• Career Advancement. An associate degree can serve as a stepping stone for career advancement. While some positions may require a bachelor’s degree for higher-level roles, an associate degree can help secure entry-level positions and act as a foundation for further education and career growth.
• Flexibility. Many associate degree programs offer flexible schedules, including online courses and evening classes, allowing you to balance education with work or other commitments.
• Employability. Having an associate degree can increase employability and job prospects in various industries, allowing you to demonstrate a certain level of education and skill to potential employers.

What Steps Should You Take to Earn an Associate Degree?

1. Research and choose a program: Look for accredited online institutions that offer associate degrees in your field of interest, whether it’s computer science, business, healthcare, or something else. Consider factors like program curriculum, flexibility, tuition costs, and accreditation.
2. Meet admission requirements: Each program has its own admission criteria. Typically, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent (like a GED). Some programs might require standardized test scores (like the SAT or ACT) or placement tests.
3. Apply to the program: Complete the application process for your chosen online associate degree program. This may involve submitting an application form, transcripts, essays, and possibly letters of recommendation.
4. Financial aid and tuition: Explore financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and loans, to help cover tuition costs. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal aid.
5. Register for courses: Once you have been accepted to a program, work with an academic advisor to plan your course schedule. Online programs typically have a web-based portal where you can register for classes.
6. Study and complete courses: Complete your coursework according to the program’s requirements. Online programs offer flexibility, allowing you to access lectures, assignments, and materials remotely. Stay organized, manage your time effectively, and participate actively in discussions and assignments.
7. Complete Degree Requirements: Fulfill all the necessary credit requirements, including core courses and electives, to earn your associate degree.
8. Graduation and Certification: After completing all requirements, apply for graduation. Some programs may require a final project, exam, or internship. Once you meet all criteria, you’ll be awarded your associate degree!

What Associate Degrees are Most in Demand?

Three of the most in-demand career fields right now require an associate’s degree to get your foot in the door: business administration, computer science, and health science. (Link to my story “How an associate’s degree can turbocharge your earning potential”)

Due to rapid growth in the field of business administration, jobs like business administrator, operations analyst, payroll specialist, and sales supervisor will open up to you once you earn an associate degree.

University of the People offers an online associate of science degree in business administration, which you can complete in as little as four months. The curriculum covers topics like statistics, management, and accounting and is the perfect introduction to the competitive world of business.

Additionally, you can earn an associate degree from UoPeople in two other fast-growing fields: computer science and health science.

The associate of science in computer science degree prepares students with a solid foundation in computer programming, databases, software, and operating systems. Once you complete the program, you can become a network technician, data analyst, computer programmer, or IT support specialist.

Likewise, UoPeople’s associate degree in health science can turbocharge your career by preparing you for roles like community health educator, healthcare advocate, patient service representative, or wellness coordinator. This program will help you build an understanding of health-focused topics from disease prevention, psychology, global health, public healthcare, and biology to general health and wellness.

All three of UoPeople’s associate degree options are conducted fully online, making them a great choice for working professionals looking to grow their careers.

An Associate Degree Means Career Success

Contemplating a career change can be a pivotal moment in your professional journey. If you find your current job becoming stale, earning an associate degree could be the catalyst for positive change. Online programs, such as those offered by accredited institutions like UoPeople, cater to working professionals, offering flexible schedules and the convenience of remote learning.

In the current job market, associate degrees in business administration, computer science, and health science are particularly sought after. UoPeople’s online associate degree programs in these fields offer a convenient and efficient way for working professionals to enhance their skills and career prospects. By taking these steps, you can embark on a transformative journey towards a more fulfilling and rewarding professional future.