Education
Fact-checked

At PracticalAdultInsights, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are Different Types of Associate Degree Programs?

Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Associate degree programs are two-year education programs which appeal to many different types of learners. Programs are available that satisfy general education requirements that can later be transferred to a four-year university and applied to a bachelor's degree. Plus, there are many concentrated technical programs that lead directly to jobs for those who don't care to take unneeded general education classes, as well as career changers who already have degrees but want to gain the added knowledge required to enter new fields. Associate degree programs are available at community colleges, technical training schools, vocational schools, online schools, and sometimes four-year universities.

For those intending to eventually complete a bachelor's degree or other type of advanced degree, the programs called "transfer" programs are the appropriate route. These are usually associate of arts, or associate of science degrees. Some are focused on one area such as English or math, but all cover the general education requirements that will most likely be required for a bachelor's degree.

Radiologic technologists take diagnostic images for use by doctors in diagnosing diseases.
Radiologic technologists take diagnostic images for use by doctors in diagnosing diseases.

If transfer to a four-year university is the intent, it's important to match the classes to the requirements of the transfer school. Some state schools will have transfer agreements with community colleges that state students transferring from certain associate degree programs will be considered to have completed all general education requirements. This is something that must be confirmed with the transfer school's admissions office, however.

Associate degree programs can be completed in two years.
Associate degree programs can be completed in two years.

Associate degree programs are not only an economical alternative for first and second year college students, but many community colleges are now allowing junior and senior high school students to take courses before graduating from high school. Considering the tuition difference of a community college and a private college, this could save many families a considerable amount of tuition money. Home schooled students can also benefit from this option, as it's a great resource for advanced students in the sciences or technical classes. Earning an associate's degree early may allow students to complete advanced degrees early as well.

The best associate degree programs in the medical field offer in-depth training, including hands on experience with patients.
The best associate degree programs in the medical field offer in-depth training, including hands on experience with patients.

Associate degree programs in technical and medical fields are also very popular. Instead of the "transfer" label, these programs are often designated as an "applied" science or art. So, instead of "associate of science" degree, diplomas may read "associate of applied science." Each school uses its own terminology, but those are things to look for when seeking a specific type of degree.

One of the most popular associate degree programs in the medical field is nursing. Many schools now offer a two-year registered nurse (RN) option. Other favorites are degrees leading to jobs as radiology technicians, massage therapists, dental hygienists, medical billing specialists, physical therapy assistants, medical assistants, phlebotomy specialists, and medical lab technologists.

Technical training options are also legion. Programs are available that lead to jobs as computer programmers, networking specialists, aerospace engineering technicians, construction managers, web designers, computer aided drafting designers, automotive technicians, electrical specialists, industrial machinists, welders, and a host of others. Whatever a student's interest, there is most likely an associate degree program to fit.

Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Joining the PracticalAdultInsights team has helped to satisfy Hillary’s insatiable curiosity for knowledge. She also manages an electronic publishing business that allows her to develop her skills in technical writing, graphic design, and business development. Hillary has a passion for satirical writing and enjoys traveling, especially to places of historical importance.

Learn more...
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Joining the PracticalAdultInsights team has helped to satisfy Hillary’s insatiable curiosity for knowledge. She also manages an electronic publishing business that allows her to develop her skills in technical writing, graphic design, and business development. Hillary has a passion for satirical writing and enjoys traveling, especially to places of historical importance.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

surfNturf

Sunshine31- Many schools are now offering associate degrees in nursing programs. The LPN or the licensed practical nurse degree is offered as a two year associate’s degree program in many community colleges as well as vocational schools.

Many schools offer accelerated degree programs leading to an RN, or registered nurse degree. In order to qualify you have to have a bachelor’s degree in a discipline and be able to do the coursework which can take up to two years to complete.

Some schools even offer accelerated associate degree programs in other fields. Miami Dade College offers a new associate degree program in computer information technology and business administration. These will be an associate’s of science degree and the students would be eligible for employment immediately upon graduation.

sunshine31

Cafe41-I know that many community colleges that offer associate in science degrees.

For example, at Miami-Dade College, formally known as Miami-Dade Community College, you can receive and Associates in Science with a concentration in accounting, early childhood education, air conditioning, funeral services, hospitality management, graphic design, landscape design, addiction studies, paralegal, and photography to name a few.

I know that they offer an associate’s of arts online as well as an associates in science in business administration. Those are the only online associate degree programs that they offer.

cafe41

I think the best associate degree programs are found in community colleges. These programs for associate degrees and are relatively inexpensive, and in the state of Florida, graduates of community colleges that seek a four year degree will automatically be accepted to a public university due to a reciprocal agreement that the community colleges have with the state universities.

Programs for an associate degree are separated into two categories. The associate of arts degree, a two-year degree in which the student seeks out a four year degree and will go on to a four-year college.

An associate of science degree is a two-year degree in which the student is immediately prepared to work in the field of study upon graduation.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Radiologic technologists take diagnostic images for use by doctors in diagnosing diseases.
      By: bunyos
      Radiologic technologists take diagnostic images for use by doctors in diagnosing diseases.
    • Associate degree programs can be completed in two years.
      By: Monkey Business
      Associate degree programs can be completed in two years.
    • The best associate degree programs in the medical field offer in-depth training, including hands on experience with patients.
      By: Tim UR
      The best associate degree programs in the medical field offer in-depth training, including hands on experience with patients.