Online Associate Degrees
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You don’t need to attend a four-year university to have a fulfilling career. An associate degree is a two-year credential that can raise your earning potential and teach you practical skills — usually for a fraction of the cost of a bachelor’s degree.
“Many students are told that in order to earn more money, they need to earn a higher degree,” says Norma Feriz-Gordon, a college and career success coach. “Several associate degrees may lead to a higher earning potential [than a bachelor’s degree].”
Commonly offered by community colleges, associate degrees cover a variety of subjects, such as business, technology, criminal justice, education, and healthcare. Many associate degrees are also available fully online or in a hybrid format.
Read on to learn more about online associate degrees and find the right program for you.
Explore Online Associate Degrees by Subject
Discover various online associate degree programs using the jump links below.
Buisness
An associate degree in business covers foundational concepts like accounting, finance, marketing, and human resources. These degrees can prepare you for entry-level business roles such as accounting or finance clerk, advertising sales representative, administrative assistant, and market researcher.
Computers & Technology
Computer science and technology associate degrees teach the fundamentals of computer programming, web development, and other tech skills. In a computer science program, you’ll take courses such as computer networks, programming, and database management.
Criminal Justice & Legal
A criminal justice or paralegal associate degree equips you with basic knowledge of law enforcement and the legal system. An associate degree in criminal justice can prepare you to become a police officer, detective, criminal investigator, or corrections officer.
Education
An associate degree in education introduces you to foundational concepts of teaching. These programs typically allow you to choose a concentration, such as early childhood, elementary, secondary, or special education.
Healthcare
An associate degree in healthcare teaches you key clinical and administrative skills needed to work in healthcare. You can choose from subjects like sonography and radiography, medical assisting, medical billing and coding, and medical office administration.
Liberal Arts
The liberal arts includes the humanities, arts, and the natural and social sciences. Specifically, you could earn an associate degree in a subject like philosophy, history, English, psychology, or communication.
What Can You Do With an Online Associate Degree?
An online associate degree can qualify you for an array of in-demand careers, including physical therapist assistant, web developer, and dental hygienist.
Overall, healthcare roles boast the highest projected growth rates among jobs requiring associate degrees. Between 2023 and 2033, jobs for physical therapist assistants are projected to grow 19%, while jobs for respiratory therapists and medical sonographers are projected to grow 13% and 15%, respectively.
The table below shows 10 popular jobs you can get with an associate degree.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) | Projected Growth Rate (2023-2033) |
|---|---|---|
| Air Traffic Controllers | $137,380 | 3% |
| Computer Support Specialists | $60,810 | 6% |
| Dental Hygienists | $87,530 | 9% |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographers | $80,850 | 15% |
| Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $60,970 | 1% |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | $58,740 | 19% |
| Preschool Teachers | $37,130 | 4% |
| Radiologic and MRI Technologists | $76,020 | 6% |
| Respiratory Therapists | $77,960 | 13% |
| Web Developers | $84,960 | 8% |
How Long Does an Online Associate Degree Take?
Associate degree programs typically require 60 credits and two years of full-time study.
Most online associate degrees are the same length as in-person programs if you study full time; however, some schools may offer part-time or accelerated degree options.
Carefully review the academic requirements of the online associate degree programs you’re considering, as some classes may require in-person lab components, internships, or clinical experiences.
How Much Does an Online Associate Degree Cost?
Cost of Online Associate Degree, 2019-2020
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$3,323
Avg. Net Price
$1,869
Source: NCES PowerStats
During the 2019-2020 academic year, the average tuition and fees for an online associate degree was around $3,300, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Several options can help lower the cost of your online associate degree:
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Student loans
- Grants
- Online student scholarships
You can also check out our ranking of the most affordable online community colleges. And, some states allow you to attend community college tuition-free.
Should You Get an Associate Degree Online?
“Deciding whether to attend an in-person or online program is a very personal decision,” says Feriz-Gordon. “Students must assess how they learn best.”
While not for everyone, an online associate degree program can be a flexible, more affordable way to get an education, especially if you work full time and have other obligations.
Many online associate degree programs offer asynchronous courses, allowing you to complete requirements at your own pace.
“Make sure the programs are accredited, in addition to comparing cost and length of the program,” recommends Feriz-Gordon.
Pros
Flexible schedule and course options- No campus commute
- Can learn from anywhere
- Typically more affordable than on-campus programs
Cons
Not all programs are available fully online — especially healthcare programs- Limited social interaction and networking
- Requires lots of self-discipline
- Can lack hands-on learning opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Associate Degrees
The easiest online associate degree to get will depend on your skill set and academic and career goals. For example, students with stronger math and science skills may find a STEM-based degree easier, while those who prefer reading and writing may do better in a humanities program.
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Updated September 28, 2023
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