Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Thomas Broderick
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Updated on December 3, 2024
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Want more job opportunities, a higher salary, and a lower likelihood of unemployment? 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? Keep reading to learn about the best online associate degrees.

Popular Online Associate Degrees

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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Top 10 Accredited Schools for Online Associate Degrees

#1 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Ivy Tech Community College

  • Location-markerIndianapolis, IN
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Ivy Tech Community College offers 44 online associate degree programs, including accounting, business administration, and data analytics. Programs may include synchronous or asynchronous courses.  Approximately 75% of full-time students receive financial assistance via scholarships or grants. 

Highlights

  • Includes lectures, group work, online assignments, and discussion boards for a diverse learning experience 
  • Provides 25 hours of free online tutoring per term
  • Does not charge an application fee 

Know Before You Apply

  • Students who do not meet GPA or testing requirements may need to take an online assessment or corequisite courses. 
  • Curricula may not have electives for major courses. 
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,487
  • Out-of-state$8,777
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate46%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled89,705
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment31%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Northern Virginia Community College

  • Location-markerAnnandale, VA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Northern Virginia Community College provides 22 online associate degrees with multiple start dates throughout the year. The school has a 71% retention rate for full-time, first-year students. Attendees paid an average annual net price of $8,242 in 2022-2023.

Highlights

  • Provides a virtual orientation
  • Offers multiple pathways to receive credit for prior learning
  • Has virtual career counseling sessions 

Know Before You Apply

  • Programs may not be designed to facilitate credit transfers to other institutions. 
  • Students must complete an ID check via webcam.  
  • Scholarships for certain programs only have a one-month application window. 
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,051
  • Out-of-state$10,790
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate71%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled51,896
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment54%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Houston Community College

  • Location-markerHouston, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Houston Community College offers 41 associate degrees split between academic and workforce programs. Academic programs prepare students to transfer to a four-year college, while workforce programs prepare attendees to secure jobs after graduation. Enrollees paid an average net price of $6,033 after financial aid in 2022-2023. 

Highlights

  • Provides academic advising, including degree planning and transfer information 
  • Offers free tutoring services 
  • Has multiple scholarship opportunities through the Houston Community College Foundation

Know Before You Apply

  • Programs may require online students to complete up to 15% of courses on campus.
  • Certain programs have limited elective choices.
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,904
  • Out-of-state$3,624
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate63%
  • Acceptance Rate100%
  • Students Enrolled48,159
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment62%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Tidewater Community College

  • Location-markerNorfolk, VA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Tidewater Community College offers 17 online associate degree programs, including five transfer programs. The school has a 100% scholarship and grant award rate for incoming first-year students. As of 2022-2023, attendees paid an average net price of $7,599 annually. 

Highlights

  • Provides a free online application for admission
  • Offers virtual appointments for academic advising 
  • Has free individual and group tutoring sessions

Know Before You Apply

  • Courses can be asynchronous or synchronous, and some offer compressed timelines. 
  • Some program specializations may only be available on campus.
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,680
  • Out-of-state$9,978
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled16,195
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment71%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Fayetteville Technical Community College

  • Location-markerFayetteville, NC
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Fayetteville Technical Community College offers 30 online associate degree programs. The school has a 59% retention rate for first-year full-time students. Attendees pay an average annual net price of $3,616 after grant or scholarship aid. 

Highlights

  • Has academic agreements with four-year institutions for students who plan to transfer
  • Assigns an academic advisor to new enrollees 
  • Offers educational credit for military training

Know Before You Apply

  • Online students who require assessment tests must complete tests at an assessment facility. 
  • Attendees who drop a class before 10% of the course is completed must pay 25% of tuition and fees for the course.
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,432
  • Out-of-state$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate59%
  • Acceptance Rate100%
  • Students Enrolled10,233
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment94%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Gaston College

  • Location-markerDallas, NC
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Gaston College offers 15 online associate degree programs, including accounting, information technology, and human resources management. The school has a 75% retention rate for first-year, full-time students, and 66% of students received a grant or scholarship in 2022-2023. 

Highlights

  • Offers full-time and part-time programs
  • Provides a general scholarship application that covers multiple internal scholarships
  • Has student success coaches who offer video conferences

Know Before You Apply

  • Applicants with a GPA lower than 2.8 may need to take a placement test.
  • Students must attend the online orientation.
  • Online courses may require proctored exams.
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,432
  • Out-of-state$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate75%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled5,558
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment94%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Central Georgia Technical College

  • Location-markerWarner Robins, GA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Central Georgia Technical College offers 13 associate degree programs that can be completed in 60-72 credit hours. The school has a low 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Over 90% of first-year students were awarded grants or scholarships in 2022-2023, and 59% of first-year attendees return for their second year. 

Highlights

  • Has a simple application process and checklist
  • Provides free online tutoring in individual or group sessions
  • Offers confidential distance counseling services 

Know Before You Apply

  • Online courses may require in-person labs or exams.
  • School scholarships require a current instructor's recommendation.
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,400
  • Out-of-state$4,800
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate59%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled9,683
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment45%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Washtenaw Community College

  • Location-markerAnn Arbor, MI
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Washtenaw Community College offers 21 online associate degrees in seven categories, including broadcast media, computer technology, and workforce development. In 2022-2023, full-time, first-time students paid an average net price of $3,588. 

Highlights

  • Offers academic advising online or via phone 
  • Provides a student welcome center to assist with online orientation, admissions, and registration
  • Has scholarships that can cover childcare costs

Know Before You Apply

  • Individual courses may be synchronous or asynchronous. 
  • Only half of full-time, first-time students receive grant or scholarship aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,056
  • Out-of-state$5,736
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled10,622
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment71%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Bluegrass Community and Technical College

  • Location-markerLexington, KY
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Bluegrass Community and Technical College offers 34 online associate degree programs with a combination of synchronous and asynchronous courses. Over 90% of enrollees receive financial aid through grants or scholarships. Full-time attendees paid an average annual net price of under $8,000 in 2022-2023. 

Highlights

  • Provides digital literacy courses to help students adjust to online learning
  • Has a single application for all institutional scholarships 
  • Offers accessibility services, including specialized software and counseling 

Know Before You Apply

  • First-year applicants must complete the SAT, ACT, or placement testing.
  • The school has a 38% graduation rate.
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,368
  • Out-of-state$15,288
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled10,318
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment66%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Best Accredited Online Associate Degrees 2025

Cuyahoga Community College District

  • Location-markerCleveland, OH
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Why We Chose This School

Cuyahoga Community College District offers 20 fully online associate degree programs in accounting, business, marketing, and more. As of the 2022-2023 academic year, the school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11-to-1 and an average annual net price of $4,675. 

Highlights

  • Provides concentration options for certain programs 
  • Offers free tutoring services 
  • Has virtual counseling for academic, career, and personal support

Know Before You Apply

  • For each class, enrollees must log in twice and complete one assignment per week for the first two weeks.
  • Admission requirements vary by program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,230
  • Out-of-state$6,521
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate39%
  • Acceptance Rate100%
  • Students Enrolled15,764
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment68%
  • AccreditationYes

Popular Associate Degrees

Popular online associate degrees include accounting, business administration, and criminal justice. Work with your school’s advisors to learn how a degree can jumpstart your career.

1. Accounting

Online associate degrees in accounting may feature classes in microeconomics and managerial accounting. You can use this degree to work as a tax preparer or bookkeeper. BLS data from 2023 reveals that bookkeepers earn a median annual salary of $47,440.

2. Business Administration

The best associate degrees in business administration may require coursework in finance and marketing. Careers for recent graduates include construction and sales manager. Construction managers who further their education with a bachelor’s earn a median salary of $104,900 (BLS, May 2023).

3. Criminal Justice

An online associate degree in criminal justice requires an in-depth study of criminal procedures and investigations. You can apply your education to a career as a police officer, with a median salary of $72,280 (BLS, May 2023).

4. Education

An associate degree in education requires selecting a concentration, such as primary or special education. Primary education degree-seekers take classes in early childhood development. You can become a preschool teacher with this degree, a career with a median salary of $37,130 (BLS, May 2023).

5. Fire Science

An online associate degree in fire science can prepare you for a career as a firefighter, a job offering a median salary of $57,120 (BLS, May 2023). Typical fire science programs emphasize coursework in fire protection equipment and fire protection organization.

Types of Associate Degrees

Your future career or bachelor’s program depends on what kind of associate degree you choose. Keep in mind that each degree features different graduation requirements.


Why Should You Get an Associate Degree?


  • check An associate degree can prepare you for entry-level jobs and professional certifications.
  • check An online associate degree can offer flexibility to balance work and other commitments.
  • check Workers with an associate degree earn about $150 more per week than those with only a high school diploma.
  • check Online college is often more affordable than traditional programs.
  • check Many associate degrees help you meet the general education requirements for a bachelor’s degree.
  • check An asynchronous online learning format lets you complete schoolwork anytime and anywhere.
  • check Many students prefer the convenience and accessibility of an online degree.

Choosing the Best Associate Degree for You

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 status. An unaccredited school or diploma mill can cost you, so take the time to do your research.

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.

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.

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 $12,000 for an associate degree compared with over $30,000 or more for a bachelor’s degree.

Differences Between an Associate Degree and a Bachelor’s Degree
Points to ConsiderAssociate DegreeBachelor’s Degree
Average Tuition Cost$11,976$30,031
Program Length2 years4 years
Number of Credits~60~120
Average Annual Salary for Graduates$50,076$69,368
Degrees Available
  • Associate of Arts (AA)
  • Associate of Science (AS)
  • Associate of Applied Arts (AAA)
  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
  • Bachelor of Science (BS)

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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Associate Degree Programs

Yes, if you know what you want to do with an online associate degree. This degree can qualify you for one of many entry-level positions aligning with your major. You can also use the degree to transfer to a bachelor’s-completion program.


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