Education
What is an Associate’s Degree?
An associate’s degree is a two-year undergraduate academic program offered by community colleges, technical schools, and some four-year universities. It serves as an intermediate step between a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree, providing students with foundational knowledge and skills in a specific field of study.
Key aspects of associate’s degrees:
- Duration: Typically completed in two years of full-time study.
- Types: Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS).
- Credit hours: Usually requires 60 to 65 credit hours.
- Purpose: Can be terminal (career-focused) or transfer-oriented (preparation for bachelor’s programs).
- Fields of study: Offered in various disciplines, including liberal arts, business, healthcare, and technology.
Associate’s degrees can lead to entry-level career opportunities or serve as a stepping stone to further education, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness for students exploring higher education options.