How Long Does It Take To Earn an Associate Degree Online?

Completing an associate degree online is a great step toward launching a new career. However, there are lots of questions that need to be answered before picking a degree:

• What Kind of Degree Should I get?
• How Much Will It Cost?
• How Long Will It Take?

In this article, we will explore and provide answers to these questions, as well as take a look at career opportunities, different options for degrees, and the answers to some frequently asked questions.

How Long Does an Associate Degree Take?

While the answer to this question will always vary somewhat depending on program of study, the institution being attended, personal circumstances, the general answer is that an associate degree will take two years to complete.

Things to consider in calculating this include whether a student is full time or part time, if classes can be attended year round, various course requirements, and more.

Accelerated Programs

Many institutions offer accelerated online programs that allow students to work at their own pace and complete an associate degree in less than two years. They also offer opportunities to earn course credits and skip superfluous classes.

For example, at Southern New Hampshire University's online Associate of Science in computer science program, students are able to earn math course credits by passing assessments, as well as earn course credit for previously earned certifications.

All of these things translate to saved time and money.

What Is the Fastest Associate Degree To Get?

While associate degrees are often described as 'two-year degrees' they can often be completed in 12 to 18 months.

The fastest associate degree to get would be one that allows students to utilize everything available to make the process faster. Look for online, accelerated programs that allow transfer credits and experience credits.

All of these things will significantly reduce the time spent completing an associate degree.

Types of Associate Degrees

There are a few different types of associate degrees to keep in mind; let's explore them now.

Associate of Arts (AA)

An Associate of Arts degree is the first of the two most common kinds of associate degrees. An AA degree features courses that are more general and less geared toward a specific career type.

Often, these degrees are more focused on liberal arts and general education classes, so they are an excellent option if a student wants to transfer their associate degree toward a bachelor's degree.

Associate of Science (AS)

An Associate of Science degree is the other most common type of associate degree. These degree programs tend to be more specific and technical in their subject matter, and they usually involve more science and math-oriented courses.

These programs are not limited to science and math, however. There are many fields to study with an AS degree, and they can also be transferred toward a bachelor's degree.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

Associate of Applied Science, or AAS, degree programs are perfect for students who want to study very technical and practical fields and are interested in beginning their career as soon as possible.

These degrees are more vocational in nature, and they are best for entering into a career field after graduating, rather than transferring to a four-year institution. However, graduates of AAS programs can absolutely return for a higher degree in the future.

Others

There are several other more specific and less common associate degree types that a college may offer. They include things like:

• Associate of Applied Business
• Associate of Engineering
• Associate of Fine Arts
• Associate of Applied Arts
• Associate of General Studies

Associate Degree Careers

Many fields offer well-paying, entry-level positions to applicants with an associate degree. Take a look at some of them below.

• Computer Programmer
• Drafter
• Dental Hygienist
• Web Developer
• Paralegal
• Chef
• Accountant
• Web Designer

Associate or Bachelor's Degree?

What are the crucial differences between these two kinds of undergraduate degrees?

Time

In general, an associate degree will take about two years to complete, and a bachelor's degree will take about four years to complete. It's fair to assume that a bachelor's degree will take about twice as long or more than an associate degree to finish.

Cost

As they take twice as long or more, bachelor's degrees represent a greater financial investment when compared to an associate degree. Also, associate degrees are usually available at community and technical colleges which tend to be much more affordable.

Transferring

Something to keep in mind is that many associate degrees are easy to transfer toward completing a bachelor's degree. If a student begins work on an associate degree and then decides to pursue a bachelor's degree, that is a perfectly viable option.

Career Opportunities

While there are many career opportunities for graduates of associate degree programs, some fields and positions may want applicants to have a bachelor's degree.

This is something to consider when choosing a field of study and a career path.

What Is the Easiest Associate Degree To Get?

Whether something would be considered easy depends upon the individual. However, the programs considered by most to be the easiest associate degrees are degrees in liberal arts, general studies, or certain business fields.

These fields tend to involve fewer technical subjects with high levels of complexity, and they often allow flexibility for students to choose which courses they would like to pursue.

What Is the Cheapest Associate Degree?

The cost of a degree will depend upon the institution attended. Online degrees tend to be cheaper, and community and technical colleges are much more affordable and offer associate degree programs.

The cheapest online degree would be an online program at an affordable, in-state community college with access to financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Earn an Associate Degree Online Today

Now that you know more about associate degrees, you're ready to earn an associate degree online today.