Associate degree programs are two-year educational programs that appeal to a wide range of students. There are programs that meet general education requirements and can be transferred to a four-year university and applied toward a bachelor’s degree. There are also many concentrated technical programs that lead directly to jobs for those who don’t want to waste time with unneeded general education classes, as well as career changers who already have degrees but want to gain the additional knowledge needed to enter new fields. Community colleges, technical training schools, vocational schools, online schools, and sometimes four-year universities offer associate degree programs.
The programs known as “transfer” programs are the best option for those who want to eventually complete a bachelor’s degree or another type of advanced degree. Associate of arts or associate of science degrees are the most common. Some are focused on a single subject, such as English or math, but they all cover the general education requirements for a bachelor’s degree.
If you plan to transfer to a four-year university, it’s critical to match your classes to the transfer school’s requirements. State students transferring from certain associate degree programs will be considered to have completed all general education requirements at some state schools that have transfer agreements with community colleges. However, you should confirm this with the admissions office at the transfer school.
Not only are associate degree programs a cost-effective option for first- and second-year college students, but many community colleges are now allowing junior and senior high school students to enroll in courses prior to graduation. Given the difference in tuition between a community college and a private college, this could save many families a significant amount of money. This option is also beneficial to home schooled students, as it is a great resource for advanced students in science or technical classes. Early completion of an associate’s degree may allow students to complete advanced degrees sooner.
Technical and medical associate degree programs are also very popular. Instead of being labeled as “transfer,” these programs are frequently referred to as “applied” science or art. As a result, diplomas may read “associate of applied science” instead of “associate of science.” Each school has its own jargon, but these are the terms to look for when looking for a specific degree.
Nursing is one of the most popular associate degree programs in medicine. A two-year registered nurse (RN) program is now available at many schools. Radiology technicians, massage therapists, dental hygienists, medical billing specialists, physical therapy assistants, medical assistants, phlebotomy specialists, and medical lab technologists are among the most popular degrees.
There are a plethora of technical training options as well. Computer programmers, networking specialists, aerospace engineering technicians, construction managers, web designers, computer aided drafting designers, automotive technicians, electrical specialists, industrial machinists, welders, and a variety of other jobs are all available through various programs. There is almost certainly an associate degree program that will suit a student’s interests.