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Want more job opportunities, a higher salary, and a lower likelihood of finding yourself unemployed? Earning a college degree is one of the best ways to improve your career prospects.
With an associate degree, you'll earn an average of $150 more per week than a high school graduate. Plus, your chances of unemployment drop by a third, according to May 2022 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
You can get those benefits in a way that suits your schedule when you earn your associate degree online. Want to know more? Then keep reading to learn about the best online associate degrees.
Popular Associate Degrees
Why Get an Associate Degree Online?
- An associate degree can prepare you for entry-level jobs and professional certifications.
- An online associate degree can offer flexibility to balance work and other commitments.
- Workers with an associate degree earn about $150 more per week than those with only a high school diploma.
- Online college is often more affordable than traditional programs.
- Many associate degrees help you meet the general education requirements for a bachelor's degree.
- An asynchronous online learning format lets you complete schoolwork anytime and anywhere.
- Many students prefer the convenience and accessibility of an online degree.
Does Accreditation Matter for Online Associate Degrees?
College accreditation matters. Accredited schools meet high standards for academic quality. Independent accrediting agencies evaluate colleges based on their student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic mission. That means an accredited degree is worth more than an unaccredited degree.
In addition to the quality of your education, accreditation can shape your financial aid and job opportunities. Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. What's more, many employers and licensing boards require an accredited degree.
You should always choose an accredited college for your online associate degree.
Popular Online Associate Degrees
What are the most popular online associate degrees? Check out the list below to find your major.
Accounting
An accounting associate degree trains you to maintain financial records and take on clerical responsibilities. You can work as a bookkeeper or accounting clerk with an online associate degree in accounting. These career paths report median salaries of $45,560 per year, according to May 2021 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Featured Associate in Accounting Programs
Animation
Study animation to learn artistic techniques and software programs. You'll build a portfolio to showcase your skills. With an accredited online associate degree in animation, you can qualify for some animator and special effect artist roles. Or work in the graphic arts as a designer.
Business Administration
Sharpen your analytical skills with an online associate degree in business administration. You'll take core classes in finance, accounting, and marketing.
Use your skills to become a claims adjuster, financial clerk, or administrative assistant. You can also increase your career opportunities and earning potential by transferring into a four-year business program.
Featured Associate in Business Administration Programs
Child & Adolescent Psychology
Explore human development with a child and adolescent psychology degree. You'll learn how young children develop social and emotional skills.
The degree can help you pursue roles in early childhood education or special education. For example, you can become an occupational therapy aide, a field with a median annual salary of $33,560 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Psychology Programs
Computer Science
Learn programming languages, network architecture, and systems management during your computer science associate degree. You can also specialize in areas like web development.
With an associate degree, you'll stand out compared to job candidates from bootcamp programs. Web developers earn a median pay of $78,300 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Computer Science Programs
Criminal Justice
Prepare for a career in law enforcement or corrections with an online associate degree in criminal justice. You'll study criminology, the court system, and homeland security while earning your degree.
After graduation, you can become a police officer, a career path with a median salary of around $66,000 annually (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Criminal Justice Programs
Education
Want to work with children? Then consider an associate degree in education. You'll study childhood development and learn how to create lesson plans.
With your degree, you can work as a preschool teacher or teacher assistant. Preschool teachers report a median annual salary of over $30,000 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Education Programs
Electrical Engineering
Learn about electronic parts and circuitry while earning your electrical engineering degree. You'll prepare for roles like electrical engineering technician, a field with a median annual salary of $63,640 (BLS, May 2021).
You can also boost your earning potential by transferring to a four-year electrical engineering degree to become an electrical engineer.
Featured Associate in Electrical Engineering Programs
Engineering
Explore material science and engineering principles by earning your online associate degree in engineering. You'll take foundational math, science, and engineering classes for your degree.
Then, you'll qualify for engineering technologist and technician roles. For example, mechanical engineering techs earn a median pay of around $60,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Engineering Programs
Entrepreneurship
Learn how to launch a new business venture and run a small business with an entrepreneurship degree. You'll strengthen leadership, finance, and marketing skills while earning your associate degree online.
After graduation, you'll apply your knowledge and skills as an entrepreneur. Or you can work for established businesses.
Fashion
Explore the business side of fashion with an online associate degree in fashion merchandising or fashion business. Or flex your creative skills with a fashion design degree.
Once you graduate, you'll qualify for roles like fashion merchandiser, buyer, or designer. Some career paths may require a bachelor's degree.
Fire Science
Train as a firefighter or fire inspector by earning your associate degree in fire science online. You'll study fire prevention strategies, protection systems, and firefighting techniques.
With an associate degree, you can become a firefighter. These protective services careers report a median annual pay of $50,700 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Fire Science Programs
Graphic Design
Flex your design skills with an associate degree in graphic design. You'll learn about design principles, design software programs, and typography.
As part of your two-year graphic design degree, you'll build a portfolio of work. Then, pursue graphic design jobs that pay a median salary of $50,710 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Health Services
An associate degree in health services prepares you for support roles in the medical field. You'll take classes in medical terminology, medical records, and healthcare operations.
You can work as a medical assistant or patient services assistant with an associate degree. Or become a medical records specialist, a field with a median pay of $46,660 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Healthcare Management
Learn about the business side of healthcare with an online associate degree in healthcare management. Your coursework will prepare you for careers as a health information technologist or medical assistant.
Health information technologists report median annual salaries of $55,560 (BLS, May 2021). To qualify for management roles, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree.
Featured Associate in Healthcare Management Programs
Homeland Security
Explore threats to national security with an associate degree in homeland security. You'll learn about cybersecurity, domestic terrorism, and international threats as you gain law enforcement skills.
With an associate degree, you'll qualify for roles in law enforcement and emergency management, including federal citizenship and immigration services jobs.
Featured Associate in Homeland Security Programs
Hospitality Management
Add management skills to your hospitality knowledge with an associate degree in hospitality management. You'll learn about food service, lodging, and tourism as you prepare for leadership roles in the hospitality industry.
After graduation, you can become a food service manager or a lodging manager. These management careers report median salaries of around $59,000 (BLS, May 2021).
Human Services
Prepare for social and human services roles by earning your human services associate degree online. You'll take courses in case management, addiction studies, and social welfare policy.
Then, you'll qualify for entry-level and support roles in family services, mental health services, child welfare, and housing services organizations.
Information Technology
Build programming and IT skills with an associate degree in information technology. You'll study database management, web development, and the business applications of tech during your two-year program.
With an IT degree, you'll qualify for roles like IT support specialist. These computer support roles pay a median salary of nearly $58,000 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Information Technology Programs
Marketing
Strengthen your research and analytical skills with an associate degree in marketing. You'll study marketing strategies, consumer research approaches, and competitor analysis during your program.
With an associate degree, you'll qualify for entry-level roles in direct marketing, digital marketing, and social media marketing. Or earn your bachelor's degree for more career opportunities.
Featured Associate in Marketing Programs
Medical Assisting
Gain focused medical training by earning your medical assisting associate degree online. You'll learn medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology as you train for careers in the medical field.
As a medical assistant, you can expect a median salary of around $37,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Medical Coding
Learn how to maintain medical records and submit insurance documents with a medical coding degree. You'll gain career-ready skills for roles like medical records specialist.
In these roles, which blend medical and information management skills, you can expect a median annual salary of $46,660 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Medical Coding Programs
Medical Office Administration
Build administrative skills focused on medical settings with an online associate degree in medical office administration.
You'll learn how doctor's offices and hospitals run, including patient scheduling, office management, and medical terminology. As a medical office assistant, you can expect median salaries of around $38,500 (BLS, May 2022).
Featured Associate in Medical Office Administration Programs
Network Administration
Specialize your tech education by earning your network administration associate degree online. You'll study network diagnostics, cybersecurity, and network design.
With your associate degree, you can become a network or computer systems administrator. These career paths report median wages of $80,600 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Network Administration Programs
Paralegal
Interested in legal jobs? With a two-year associate degree, you can become a paralegal. During your program, you'll study legal writing, the court system, and legal research.
After graduation, you'll qualify for paralegal and legal assistant jobs. These career paths report median salaries of around $56,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Paralegal Programs
Pharmacy
Learn how to assist pharmacists with an online pharmacy technician associate degree. You'll study pharmacy law, how to dispense medication, and pharmacy recordkeeping.
Then, use your degree to work as a pharmacy technician. Pharmacy technicians earn a median pay of around $36,700 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Pharmacy Programs
Photography
Earn a photography associate degree online to strengthen your creative and technical skills. You'll learn digital photography and Photoshop skills as you build a portfolio.
In addition to creative roles as a photographer, you'll also qualify for image retouching and graphic artist jobs. Photographers make a median wage of nearly $39,000 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Associate in Photography Programs
Public Safety Administration
Explore emergency management and learn how to protect the public by earning your public safety administration associate degree online.
You can pursue protective service and public safety careers with this degree. For example, you can use your education to become a police officer, fire inspector, or emergency responder.
Retail and Sales Management
Add management skills to your retail and sales knowledge with an online associate degree in retail and sales management. You'll strengthen leadership, communication, and decision-making skills with a focus on retail and sales careers.
The degree prepares you for supervisor positions in retail and sales. Retail supervisors earn a median pay of $45,250 (BLS, May 2022).
Small Business
Learn how to run a small business with the flexible format of an online associate degree. You'll study entrepreneurship, management, and business during your two-year program.
With a small business degree, you can start your own small business or take on management responsibilities in an established business.
Featured Associate in Small Business Programs
Top 10 Associate Online Degrees
Read About Our Methodology Here
These rankings include
#1 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $320
Credits to Graduate: 60
Southern New Hampshire University's online associate degree programs can help you land jobs in in-demand fields more quickly by counting up to 45 transfer credits toward your degree.
With an AS in information technology from SNHU, you can become a web developer or a computer user support specialist. The school also offers an online AS in business administration for aspiring business managers and an AA in digital photography for budding photographers.
To apply, you must submit all high school and, if applicable, college transcripts.
#2 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $390
Credits to Graduate: 60-64
Offering a wealth of online associate degrees, Liberty has not raised its tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in eight years.
With a medical office assistant associate degree, you can work in doctor's offices. Alternatively, you can become a tech support worker with Liberty's AA in information systems. The university's online AA programs in philosophy, politics, and economics can prepare you for continued study in business and government bachelor's degree programs.
Most online associate programs at Liberty accept up to 75% of transfer credits to count toward your degree. To apply, you must submit official transcripts and military service background information with your application.
#3 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Ivy Tech Community College
Indianapolis, IN - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $150 (in-state) | $293 (out-of-state)
Credits to Graduate: 60
ITCC offers 23 fully online associate degree programs that can prepare you for various professional certifications. For example, with an associate in cloud technologies, you can go on to earn CompTIA A+, Security+, and Network+ certifications. Other associate programs include accounting, paralegal studies, and professional communications.
The asynchronous learning format allows you to complete coursework around your unique schedule. You'll have access to virtual services like tutoring, advising, and career development. Your credits will also easily transfer to other Indiana colleges and universities.
To apply, simply fill out a free online application.
#4 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Eastern Gateway Community College
Steubenville, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $131-$137 (in-state) | $245 (out-of-state)
Credits to Graduate: 60
An online associate degree from EGCC can prepare you for careers in public relations, cybersecurity, and finance. The university also offers transfer programs, such as the associate of individualized studies.
You can pursue a certified public accountant license after earning an AAB in accounting. You can also prepare for Comptia A+, Security+, and Linux+ certifications while completing an associate of technical studies in information technology.
You can apply by submitting transcripts and submitting SAT or ACT scores.
#5 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Lone Star College System
The Woodlands, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $96 (in-state, in-district) | $214 (in-state, out-of-district) | $269 (out-of-state)
Credits to Graduate: 60
With an online associate degree from Lone Star College, you can save money on a four-year degree by earning a transfer degree.
Earn your associate degree in fields like biomedical engineering, computer programming, the health sciences, and teaching. Graduates of LSU's business administration associate program can apply for Dell's marketing summer internship.
Admission requirements include submitting all high school and college transcripts and taking a placement test.
#6 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Houston Community College
Houston, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $33 (in-state, in-district) | $121 (in-state, out-of-district) | $151 (out-of-state)
Credits to Graduate: 60
Houston Community College offers over 60 online programs, including around three dozen online associate degrees. Get ready to work in public relations with an AA in communications or prepare for a job in education or museum work with an AA in history.
Other programs of interest include HCC's AAS in geographic information science, AA in business, and AS in computer science. As an online student at HCC, you'll get access to a variety of resources, such as counseling services, career services, and technical support.
The college has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts all students who apply.
#7 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Northern Virginia Community College
Annandale, VA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $180 (in-state) | $360 (out-of-state)
Credits to Graduate: 60
NOVA offers around 20 online associate degrees. The college has an open admissions policy, so any person 18 years or older with a high school diploma or equivalent can enroll.
The business management AAS can prepare you to become a project manager or a business owner. You can also prepare for a four-year degree or teacher prep program with the social sciences teacher education specialization AS. Other popular associate programs include cybersecurity and criminal justice.
#8 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Austin Community College District
Austin, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $85 (in-state, in-district) | $286 (in-state, out-of-district) | $353 (out-of-state)
Credits to Graduate: 60
With an associate degree from Austin Community College, you can become a real estate broker, reporter, or administrative assistant. Choose from more than 20 online associate programs, such as real estate, business administration, and journalism. You can take self-paced or scheduled online courses or opt for hybrid courses.
You can also access remote services and resources like online tutoring, coaching, and library journals. To apply, submit all high school and college transcripts and SAT or ACT scores.
#9 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
West Lafayette, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $280-$315 (in-state) | $371 (out-of-state)
Credits to Graduate: 90-116
Purdue Global's online associate degree programs can prepare you for professional licensure and various in-demand careers. The university lets you count outside educational experience toward your degree requirements.
With an AAS in accounting, for example, you can become a bookkeeper or auditing clerk. An AAS in human services can provide you with the foundation needed to work in social services, community work, or rehabilitation. Meanwhile, Purdue's online AS in nursing can help you prepare for nursing licensure.
Service members and veterans can earn an AAS in small group management in as few as 5-7 courses by counting military training experience toward their degree. To apply, you can self-enroll in an online associate program. You must then complete an interview.
#10 10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg, ID - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $135 (LDS members) | $169 (non-LDS members)
Credits to Graduate: 60
BYU-Idaho provides a religiously oriented educational experience. Here, you can earn an online associate degree in fields like applied health, information technology, and family and human services. As you complete your degree requirements, you can earn certificates in basic accounting, communication fundamentals, and web and computer programming.
You can get 20% off tuition by completing PathwayConnect at the beginning of your studies. To apply, you must receive ecclesiastical endorsement from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), even if you are not an LDS member. Submit your high school GPA and SAT or ACT scores with your application.
6 Tips for Choosing an Online Associate Program
Considering an online associate degree? Comparing programs? Here are some practical tips to help you find the right program at the right school for your needs.
1. Define Your Goals
First, consider your goals. Are you ultimately hoping to earn a bachelor's degree? Choose a two-year school with a strong transfer record. Are you interested in allied health or technical programs? Find a school with a high job placement rate.
Once you know your goals, you can narrow down your options.
2. Choose a Field of Study
Some people know their major before applying to college. Others are less sure. It's important to carefully consider your field.
The difference between a business and accounting degree might seem small, but one might make it easier to launch a bookkeeping career, while the other might meet more prerequisites for a bachelor's in business program.
Learn more about popular programs and consider your career and educational options with different majors.
3. Determine Your Budget
Many students rank cost as their top concern. And there's good news if you're considering associate programs: Public community colleges are the most affordable way to earn a college degree. Plus, an online learning format can save even more!
After looking at your budget, consider financial aid options like scholarships and loans. Make sure to factor in any fees or technology costs, and find a school that matches your budget.
4. Compare Online Associate Programs
Once you've considered your goals, interests, and budget, it's time to compare programs. Look at delivery options — do you want a fully online program, or would you prefer a hybrid option? Do you want asynchronous classes with no set meeting times, or do you prefer live class sessions?
You can also research course offerings, graduation rates, and placement records. Consider online student services. Does the school offer tutoring, advising, and career services online? These factors will shape your experience as a student.
5. Confirm Accreditation
Before applying to an online college, check the school's accreditation. An unaccredited school or diploma mill can cost you, so take the time to do your research.
The U.S. Department of Education offers a Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs. Check whether your school holds accreditation.
6. Talk to Current Students, Faculty, and Alumni
Still curious about the program? Connect with current students, recent graduates, faculty members, and staff to learn more about the program. Ask students about their experience.
Learn more about online student services. And make connections that will help you once you enroll in your associate program.
Popular Associate Degrees
Associate Degree vs. Bachelor's Degree: How Do They Differ?
What's the difference between an associate degree and a bachelor's degree? While graduates with a bachelor's degree report a higher annual salary, an associate degree costs significantly less — and takes less time to complete.
You can earn an associate degree in two years, while a bachelor's degree takes four years on average. At the end of your degree, you'll spend around $7,000 for an associate degree compared with over $37,000 or more for a bachelor's degree.
| Points to Consider | Associate Degree | Bachelor's Degree |
|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition Cost | $7,002 | $37,500 |
| Program Length | 2 years | 4 years |
| Number of Credits | ~60 | ~120 |
| Average Annual Salary for Graduates | $50,076 | $69,368 |
| Degrees Available |
|
|
Transferring From an Associate Program to a Bachelor's Program
Most community college students ultimately want to complete a bachelor's degree. And earning an online accredited associate degree can help.
That's because you can apply credits earned during your associate degree toward a bachelor's degree. Many colleges have transfer agreements in which an associate degree meets the general education requirements for bachelor's programs.
How does that help students? By paying a lower tuition rate for the first two years, you can save a ton of money on your bachelor's degree.
Should you graduate from an associate program before transferring? Or can you transfer at any time? If you choose an accredited online associate degree, you can transfer before or after completing your program. Make sure to check with four-year colleges about their transfer credit policies.
Popular Associate Degrees
Frequently Asked Questions About Associate Degree Programs
How much does an associate degree cost?
Your tuition expenses for an associate degree will largely depend on which school you attend.
In 2021, students pursuing associate degrees from two-year public schools paid an average of $3,859 annually.
How much can you make with an online associate degree?
An associate degree can increase your earning potential. The median annual salary for professionals with an associate degree is around $50,000, while high school graduates report a median pay of $42,000.
Can I get an associate degree online?
Yes, many colleges offer fully online associate degrees. You can also choose hybrid programs if you wish to attend some classes on campus.
Note that some online programs may require in-person labs, residencies, or internships that you can usually complete locally.
What is the fastest way to get an associate degree online?
Enrolling in an accelerated online program can speed up your graduation timeline. Some colleges offer accelerated schedules that allow you to finish in a year. These programs are rigorous and cover the same curricula as two-year programs do.
If you have relevant work experience, you can explore programs that award credits for work and life experience. And if you took advanced placement courses in high school, you can apply those credits toward your associate program as well.
What are the different types of associate degrees?
The types of associate degrees you can earn include an associate of arts (AA), associate of science (AS), associate of applied arts (AAA), and associate of applied science (AAS). Each type of degree has a selection of specialties or fields of study you can choose from.
Some associate programs prepare students for bachelor's-completion programs, like ADN-to-BSN nursing programs.
Are associate degrees credible?
Yes, an online associate degree from an accredited program meets the same academic standards as an on-campus degree. Many colleges offer identical diplomas for online and in-person graduates.
However, make sure to avoid unaccredited schools. Diploma mills and unaccredited schools can put your education and career at risk. Many employers only hire graduates with an accredited degree, and four-year colleges generally do not award transfer credit from unaccredited schools. Only earn your associate degree online from an accredited school.