What Is an Associate Degree in Psychology Called?

If you're thinking of starting your college education, an associate degree might be your first goal. Psychology majors may have questions about whether they can earn an associate degree in psychology and if so, ''What is this type of degree called?''

Students can choose from three different types of psychology associate degrees: Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Arts (AA), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS). The official title of your degree will vary depending on which type of associate degree you obtain.

Read on for further information about associate degrees in psychology.

Types of Associate Degrees in Psychology

Let's take a closer look at each type of psychology program you can pursue at the associate level.

Associate of Arts in Psychology

An Associate of Arts in psychology provides a broad introductory education to the field of psychology. This type of psychology degree is typically designed to transfer to a bachelor's degree program after graduation. Coursework covers many different topics, including:

• developmental psychology
• abnormal psychology
• forensic psychology
• social psychology
• clinical psychology
• mental health
• organizational psychology
• human behavior and behavioral sciences
• introductory research methods
• human development

High school graduates commonly choose this type of associate degree program as a stepping stone to advanced credentials, such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and eventually doctoral degrees.

Associate of Science in Psychology

An Associate of Science in psychology is another common program available at many community colleges. This type of degree provides broad foundational coursework in psychology but typically takes a more practice-based approach than an AA degree.

Students in this type of program typically transfer into advanced degree programs, but they can also pursue entry-level careers in psychology. Common fields they work in may include:

• social sciences
• human services
• human resources

Associate of Applied Science in Psychology

An Associate of Applied Science degree in psychology is similar to an Associate of Science degree but has a more practical, job-centered focus. Students in these programs can transfer to four-year schools, and they also have a wider array of career options.

Some of the entry-level positions AAS graduates can pursue include:

• psychiatric technician
• social worker
• human service assistant

Colleges and Universities Offering Online Associate Degrees in Psychology

Online associate in psychology programs are typically more flexible than in-person programs. You can find various online programs available across different disciplines, including psychology. Now that you know about the different types of psychology associate degrees and what they're called, let's take a look at some accredited schools offering online psychology programs at the associate degree level.

Florida Tech Online

The Florida Institute of Technology offers many online programs through its remote campus, Florida Tech Online. The Associate of Arts in applied psychology is one of these programs. It can be a great option for students looking for a solid liberal arts education and a foundation in psychology.

California Coast University

California Coast University offers an Associate of Science in psychology, which is available entirely online. The program is highly flexible, allowing students to complete courses at their own pace and begin when they're ready. To meet the admission requirements, students must have a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years old.

Fisher College

Fisher College offers an online Associate of Arts in psychology. This program features eight-week course sessions. Students with a full-time enrollment status can finish the program in about 20 months or less with relevant transfer credit.

Waldorf University

Waldorf University's Associate of Arts in psychology is only available online. Students in this program fulfill bachelor's degree general education requirements while taking introductory courses in psychology. The program provides for seamless transition into a bachelor's degree program.

South Texas College

South Texas College provides a 100% online Associate of Arts in psychology. Like other AA programs, it is designed for students planning to transfer into bachelor's degree programs. It teaches students about the various fields of psychology, helping them decide how to continue their education to best align with their career goals.

Central Wyoming College

Central Wyoming College offers an Associate of Arts in psychology that can be completed online. The program provides a foundational education to help students develop critical thinking skills and prepare them for transfer into advanced psychology, social work, social service, and social science programs.

Amarillo College

Amarillo College offers an online Associate of Science in general studies with a concentration in psychology. The program helps students learn about various areas of psychology and allows them to specialize in one or two of these areas, making it possible for them to pursue either continuing education or career options in their specialties.

Ashworth College

Ashworth College provides an associate degree in psychology that includes four introductory courses in the subject and the option to take more through electives. The program prepares students to seek entry-level employment in psychology or to transfer into a bachelor's degree program.

Seminole State College

Seminole State College allows students to obtain their Associate of Arts in psychology either online or in-person. The school offers affordable tuition and a transfer guarantee that makes it easy to transfer into a bachelor's degree program at various four-year schools in Florida.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online Associate of Arts in psychology that is great for busy students. Online courses are completed in eight-week sessions, and students can transfer up to 75% of their total credits into the program, which can help them graduate more quickly.