Online Associate Degree Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re thinking about going back to school to get your associate’s degree, you might have some questions. If you do, you’re in luck! We’ve got a comprehensive list of associate degree FAQ’s that other students just like yourself have submitted.
- What can I do with an associate’s degree?: There is a lot you can do with an associate’s degree. Nurses, computer programmers, dental hygienists, paralegals, and radiation therapists are just a few careers you can make great money with just as associate’s degree. Associate degrees are also a great stepping-stone towards a Bachelor’s degree.
- How long does it take to get an associate’s degree?: It depends on how many classes you take each semester. Most of the time, it takes students two years (full time is 12-18 credit hours per semester). If you decide take your classes online, however, this can be shaved down to 1 ½ years. An associate’s degree usually requires at least 60 credit hours.
- Are there classes I HAVE to take to get my associate’s degree?: Yep. At least half of your credits when getting your associate’s degree will revolve around general education courses. Every student, whether they’re going into law or computers, has to take the required courses to graduate. This includes classes in history, math, biology, English and literature, art, and speech. These classes give students a firm foundation from which to start their education.
- Is getting an online associate’s degree easier than going to a campus?: It depends. Many people find that getting an online associate’s degree is easier because there are no distractions. They don’t have to waste time driving to and from class, and the study itself is much more focused. On the other hand, some students aren’t motivated enough to learn on their own, and they need the discipline of a class atmosphere to do well. Being a successful online learning student all depends on your level of motivation and time-management skills.
- Can I get an associate’s degree if I have a GED?: Yes. A high school diploma or GED will get you into a 2-year degree program.
- What kinds of associate degrees are there?: To name just a few, there are: health care administration, computer information systems, medical assisting, web design, graphic design, liberal arts, early childhood development, fire science, online marketing, and hundreds of others. No matter what you’re interested in doing, chances are pretty high that there’s an associate degree out there for you.
- What do the different associate’s degree abbreviations mean?: The A.A. stands for “Associate of Arts”; these degrees are meant to transfer to 4-year schools. A.A.S. stands for “Associate of Applied Science”; these are meant for entry-level career openings, or for transfer. A.S. stands for “Associate of Science”; these also are meant for transfer.
- Is getting an online associate’s degree common?: You bet. Over half of all degrees earned online are associate degrees, so if you decide to take this route you’ll be in good company!
Guide to Online Associates Degree Programs
Associate degree holders generally have better job prospects than those with only a high school diploma. Earning an associate degree usually takes two years, and doing so in at an online school can be much more convenient than at a traditional campus. Below are the top accredited online schools offering associate degrees in the US.
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With one of the largest offerings of accredited online associate degrees, Post University is consistently highly rated by its students because of its flexibility and affordability. All associate degrees offered are fully accredited. Post was founded in 1890 and has been providing highly-rated degree programs to students ever since with an emphasis on practicality and application. Read full school profile » |
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The University of Phoenix was one of the first accredited colleges to offer online degrees. Today, it has grown to become one of the nation's largest universities through its online division and campuses coast to coast. They remain one of the top choices for students looking for an associates degree online because of the broad array of choice and affordability they offer students. Read full school profile » |
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With perhaps the largest number of online associates degrees offered, Kaplan University's degrees are fully accredited, affordable, and offer a flexibility that many other online schools cannot match. This unrivaled selection spans several industries, hundreds of specializations, and all degree levels of education, empowering students to choose their own path to a career. Read full school profile » |
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One of the nation's leading Christian universities, Liberty offers a broad range of accredited associate degrees online. Their incorporation of moral and ethical considerations into study make them a popular choice for students seeking a well-rounded education built on academic integrity. Established in 1985, Liberty University has one of the longest-standing online education programs in the country. Read full school profile » |
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The online associates degrees at Everest University can be completed in under 2 years, making this a great way for students to quickly works towards their life goals. An associates degree can give you a jump-start on your career and open opportunities around every corner. Many of the programs help students pursue positions in ever-growing fields. Read full school profile » |
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Virginia College offers a wide range of accredited associates programs. VC takes several steps in helping students pays for college by offering financial aid to those who qualify, including textbooks in the tuition cost, and providing online programs that can be completed under two (2) years, giving students a quick way to jump start their careers. Read full school profile » |
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DeVry University is a highly-regarded leader in education with campuses across the nation and several online degrees available. DeVry focuses on providing degrees centered in the technology industry or fields that require a broad understanding and need for technical skills. DeVry has several highly popular degrees like Accounting, Web Graphic Design, Health IT, and Network Systems Administration. Read full school profile » |
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Strayer University has over the last decade become one of the most respected schools offering accredited online associate degrees. Their strong reputation among employers, broad course offerings, and over one hundred years in education make them consistently a top choice for students. Strayer has over 85 campuses and 60,000 students currently attending online or at one of its campuses. Read full school profile » |
