Online Associate's Degrees

In short: Associate degrees are generally 2-year degrees, like those conferred at community colleges. Once you get an associate's degree, you typically need another 2 years or 60 credit hours to earn a bachelor's (college) degree, or you can go into the workforce at the entry level. Many associate's degrees are available online, allowing you to study whenever or wherever you want. In fact, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, over half of all degrees earned online are associate's degrees-so you're in good company!.

An Associate Degree is a type of undergraduate degree, requiring a minimum of 60 semester credit hours. The program consists of three parts: general education requirements, major requirements, and electives. You can complete an online associate degree at your own pace; full-time study is equivalent to 4 semesters or 2 years (15 semester credit hours). Accelerated online associate degree programs are available. Online associate degrees are the same as on-campus or in-classroom associate degrees, but the degree can be taken entirely through the Internet or by distance education.

Associate degrees are awarded by a community, junior or technical colleges indicating that you have completed a program of study with a broad base in general education and a concentration in a specific area. Your degree may be in an occupational area (such as Electronics) or in liberal arts (such as an associate degree in science or arts).

Associate of Applied Science degrees (or occupational associate degrees) are now preferred by many employers for mid-level technology positions.

An online associate degree in business, liberal arts, and other disciplines, is widely accepted for transfer into bachelor's degree programs throughout the country.

Types of Associate Degree Programs:

A.A. - "Associate of Arts" degree
This degree is designed to transfer to a four-year college or university.

A.A.S. - "Associate of Applied Science" degree
Designed to prepare graduates for career entry or job advancement after 2 years of college study. AAS degrees may transfer in whole or in part to 4 year colleges. A.A.S degrees may also be known by occupational specific titles such as Associate in Engineering Technology, Associate in Business, etc.

A.S. - "Associate of Science" degree
Designed to transfer to a 4 year college or university.

Occupational Degree
Also referred to as "applied" degree programs, an occupational degree program at a two-year college is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce immediately following graduation. The primary function is career preparation, however some courses and/or programs may transfer to 4 year colleges.

Online Associate Degrees Available

classestoedu.com features universities and colleges offering online associate degree programs in the following disciplines:

Looking for an Online Associate Degree?

World Wide Learn recommends our featured accredited university and college partners, all of which offer online associate degree programs: