10 Jobs You Can Get With an Associate in General Studies

If you’re looking for a flexible degree that opens doors to a wide range of opportunities, an associate in general studies may be the right fit. This program isn’t tied to a single career path but instead builds foundational skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

With this degree, you can choose to step directly into the workforce or transfer your credits into a bachelor’s program for even more career options. Below, you’ll see how general studies works, what you can do with it, and which jobs offer the best earning potential.

What Is an Associate in General Studies?

An associate in general studies is a two-year degree focused on broad learning across liberal arts and general education subjects. Instead of specializing in one field, you’ll take a mix of classes in English, math, social sciences, and natural sciences, along with electives that let you explore your interests.

This flexibility allows you to shape your studies around personal and career goals. For example, you could choose electives in health care, business, or technology to prepare for a specific job field. Because the program focuses on transferable skills like communication and analysis, it works well as both a career entry point and a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree.

What Can You Do With an Associate in General Studies?

Graduates with an associate in general studies have a wide variety of options. The degree builds skills employers value, such as writing, organization, and problem-solving, that translate into entry-level roles in business, health care support, education, customer service, and social services.

At the same time, many students use the program primarily as a transfer pathway. Since most of the courses align with four-year degree requirements, you can move smoothly into a bachelor’s program in fields like business, psychology, or education.

Best Associate in General Studies Jobs

With an associate in general studies, you’re not locked into one field. Instead, you can choose from a range of entry-level roles where your communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills make a difference.

1. Sales Representative

Sales offers some of the strongest earning potential for general studies graduates. Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives connect directly with clients, helping companies purchase products and negotiate contracts. 

Strong communication and critical thinking skills set you up for success here. Many roles also include commission, which means top performers can earn well beyond the median pay.

• Median annual salary: $74,100
• Job outlook: 1% (Slower than average)

2. Marketing or Communications Assistant

If you like writing and creative work, marketing or communications is a promising path. Assistants may draft content, manage social media, support PR campaigns, or help with market research. These entry-level jobs provide solid pay and can lead to higher-level careers in brand management, advertising, or corporate communications.

• Average annual salary: $60,892 (marketing assistant); $53,737 (communications assistant)
• Job outlook: 5% (Faster than average)

3. Administrative Assistant

Administrative assistants serve as the backbone of many offices, handling scheduling, correspondence, and recordkeeping. A general studies degree prepares you to juggle these responsibilities with strong organization and communication skills. With experience, you could advance into executive assistant or office manager positions.

• Median annual salary: $47,460
• Job outlook: 0% (Little or no change)

4. Retail Manager or Supervisor

Supervisors in retail use leadership and customer service skills to oversee daily operations, manage staff, and ensure customers have a positive experience. Many graduates move into these roles after gaining hands-on work experience. The role offers stable pay and can provide a springboard into higher management positions.

• Median annual salary: $46,730
• Job outlook: 0% (Little or no change)

5. Human Resources Assistant

If you’re interested in supporting employee relations and workplace culture, HR is a natural fit. HR assistants may help with recruitment, onboarding, or benefits administration. General studies coursework in communication and social sciences provides a solid foundation for these responsibilities, and the field offers clear advancement opportunities.

• Median annual salary: $45,930
• Job outlook: 6% (Faster than average)

6. Social Services Assistant

Working in social services lets you support nonprofits and community agencies that help individuals and families. Assistants may coordinate client services, conduct outreach, or manage paperwork. Your general studies background prepares you to communicate effectively and adapt to different situations. It’s a meaningful career path with growth potential.

• Median annual salary: $45,120
• Job outlook: 6% (Faster than average)

7. Customer Service Representative

Customer service roles exist in nearly every industry, from retail to financial services. Representatives answer questions, resolve issues, and keep customers satisfied. The interpersonal and problem-solving skills from general studies apply directly here. While the job outlook is declining due to automation, positions remain widely available.

• Median annual salary: $42,830
• Job outlook: -5% (Decline)

8. Medical Administrative Assistant

Healthcare settings need organized professionals to handle scheduling, records, and billing. A general studies degree paired with health-related electives can prepare you for these roles. The strong job outlook means opportunities are expanding quickly, even if salaries start lower compared to business-focused positions.

• Median annual salary: $40,640
• Job outlook: 12% (Much faster than average)

9. Bank Teller or Financial Services Clerk

Bank tellers and clerks handle transactions, customer interactions, and account services. Your math and communication skills from general studies are an asset here. While job growth is declining as banks automate more services, these positions still provide an entry into the financial sector.

• Median annual salary: $39,340
• Job outlook: -13% (Decline)

10. Teacher’s Aide or Paraprofessional

For those who enjoy working in education, paraprofessional roles allow you to assist teachers in classrooms, help individual students, and manage learning materials. This role doesn’t pay as highly as some others, but it’s rewarding and can be a first step toward pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education.

• Median annual salary: $35,240
• Job outlook: -1% (Decline)

FAQs About Associate in General Studies Jobs

Many students wonder what they can actually do with an associate in general studies and where the degree can take them. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about jobs, salaries, and transfer opportunities.

Is an Associate in General Studies Worth It?

Yes, this degree can be worth it if you want a flexible and affordable way to start your college journey. It opens the door to a variety of entry-level jobs while giving you transferable credits toward a bachelor’s. Many students appreciate the freedom to explore different fields before committing to a specific career path.

How Much Can I Earn With an Associate in General Studies?

Earnings depend on the career path you choose. Entry-level positions like customer service or administrative support may start in the $30,000 to $45,000 range. However, you can increase your earning potential by gaining work experience, moving into supervisory roles, or transferring your credits into a bachelor’s program that leads to higher-paying careers.

What Is the Best Job You Can Get With an Associate Degree?

The “best” job depends on your interests and long-term goals. In general, higher-paying associate-level careers often include healthcare roles like dental hygienist or sonographer, IT positions, or paralegal work. With a general studies degree, you can qualify for solid jobs in administration, retail management, or marketing support while preparing to pursue additional education if you choose.

Can I Be a Social Worker With a General Studies Degree?

You cannot become a licensed social worker with only an associate in general studies. To qualify for professional roles in social services, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW), psychology, or sociology. That said, your associate degree can be a strong foundation for transferring into one of these programs and working toward licensure.

Can I Become a Teacher With a General Studies Associate Degree?

An associate in general studies alone won’t qualify you for a teaching license. However, you can work as a paraprofessional or teacher’s aide in schools. If teaching is your long-term goal, your general studies credits can transfer into a bachelor’s degree in education, which is required for licensure.

Explore Associate Degrees Online

You can complete an accredited associate in general studies online, giving you the flexibility to balance school with work or family. Explore programs on Learn.org to find one that helps you build skills and prepare for your next step.