Best Online Associates Degrees

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The ability to earn online associates degrees has made it easier than ever for adult students to find entry-level employment fast, without putting work or family obligations on hold.

Online Associates Degrees

For students who are looking for a way to stand out in today’s competitive job market and want to earn a degree fast, without a 4-year commitment, 2-year degrees online can help fast-track a new career with quick and affordable programs.

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We’ve gathered a wealth of information to help you decide whether an online associate degree is the right choice for your future.

Online Associates Degrees

There are online 2-year degrees for students with a variety of interests, from technology to business to mental health and psychology.

Choosing the right associate’s degree program requires evaluating your passions, strengths, and career goals.

Online Associates Degree in Accounting

accountant working on a balance sheet

Associate in Accounting degree programs typically offer courses in accounting, finance, business, taxation, and mathematics.

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They may also focus on the technology used in the field. This can help prepare you for entry-level careers. such as bookkeepers, accounting assistants, payroll clerks, tax preparers, and administrative assistants.

Online Associates Degree in Business Administration

business managers discussing annual reports

An Associate in Business Administration degree program will likely cover business fundamentals. This can help to prepare you to work in entry-level positions in a wide variety of industries.

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You might choose to work as an assistant manager, an office assistant, or a sales assistant or pursue further education.

Online Associates Degree in Computer Science

Students taking Associates in Computer Science

Students in computer science associate degree programs study subjects like programming languages and software engineering and development. While earning this degree, you will develop advanced analytical and technological skills.

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Private businesses, universities, and government agencies all seek job candidates with knowledge of the latest trends in computer technology. After graduating, you may be well-qualified for a position as a web developer or systems analyst. Professionals in these roles complete tasks like writing code, building new websites, and troubleshooting networks.

Online Associates Degree in Criminal Justice

female lawyer reviewing contract documents

As a criminal justice student, you will likely learn about law and ethics, criminal investigations, corrections and probation, juvenile justice, homeland security, and much more.

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Your associate degree will allow you to pursue exciting entry-level positions. You might become a police officer, a detective, a paralegal, a forensic science technician, or a probation officer.

Online Associates Degree in Cybersecurity

People with degree in Associates in Cybersecurity

As cyber-attacks against businesses and individuals have grown, cybersecurity has become a critical area of expertise. Organizations rely on cybersecurity professionals to keep their systems and information safe. You will likely study subjects like network security, database management, and system vulnerabilities.

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Many jobs in cybersecurity require only an associate’s for employment. This degree may help you qualify for a number of lucrative careers, such as a computer support specialist or network administrator.

Online Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education

preschool teacher helping her student

An associate degree program in early childhood education can help you learn how to shape the cognitive, emotional, and social development of children from infancy through around third grade. It will likely encourage you to explore the larger social context of childcare as well.

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With your degree, you could pursue a career as a childcare worker, a preschool teacher, a childcare center director, or a teacher’s assistant.

Online Associates Degree in Fashion Merchandising

students taking Associates in Fashion Merchandising

Fashion merchandising is an ideal field for students who are passionate about marketing, advertising, and sales and who hope to build a career in fashion.

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You will typically learn about subjects like textiles, sales strategies, and visual merchandising. These areas of study help you build the skills necessary to succeed in the business world as a marketer, sales specialist, or buyer. This degree is also a good choice if you hope to transfer to a four-year program focusing on business, marketing, or fashion design.

Online Associates Degree in Healthcare Administration

med students working on their homework

The healthcare field is booming, and this degree can help you get your foot in the door fast! You’ll likely learn about healthcare technology, medical terminology, marketing, healthcare laws and ethics, administrative skills, and more.

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Common entry-level positions you might consider pursuing with this degree include medical secretary, medical assistant, and medical records technician.

Online Associates Degree in Human Resources

Human resources specialists having a meeting

Human resources specialists play a vital role in every organization. They help to hire, train, and oversee employees. Earning an associate’s degree in human resources is a good way to begin a career in this growing field.

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The curriculum typically focuses on topics like labor laws, conflict resolution, and compensation and benefits. Students who aspire to become human resources managers may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree, and an associate’s in human resources is a natural entry point for this academic path.

Online Associates Degree in Information Technology

Programmer testing the system

Information technology involves installing, organizing, and maintaining computer systems and designing and operating networks and databases.

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With an associate degree in this field, you could pursue a career as a computer support specialist, network systems administrator, computer systems analyst, or database administrator.

Online Associates Degree in Marketing

marketing team planning together

If you love sales and business, an associate’s degree in marketing can serve as a strong foundation for an entry-level position. Your studies during this program will focus on topics like public relations, business law, and advertising.

A marketing degree helps you learn how to analyze consumer behavior and use that knowledge to increase sales. These are essential skills for careers such as wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives and advertising sales agents.

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Marketing professionals who excel in their field may, over time, go on to become managers and top executives, even without an advanced degree.

Online Associates Degree in Network Administration

Network administrator doing assessment in server control room

An associate’s degree in network administration focuses on the skills that are necessary to keep networks functioning properly, recover from failures and cyberattacks, and reduce vulnerabilities.

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Common courses in two-year network administration programs include information systems security, network diagnostics, and enterprise networks. Students learn how to use and manage popular operating systems, such as Windows and Linux. Skilled computer support specialists and network administrators are highly sought after by a variety of employers.

Online Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies

Paralegal working on some reports

If your goal is to enter the legal profession, an associate’s degree in paralegal studies is a good place to begin. With this degree, you may be able to immediately enter the workforce and take on a position as a paralegal with a law firm or independent attorney.

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A paralegal associate’s degree centers on the essentials of law, such as legal research, ethics, contracts, and the court system. Many students who hope to become attorneys complete an associate’s degree and work as paralegals while preparing for or enrolling in law school.

Online Associates Degree in Digital Photography

Digital Photographer checking her output

Photographers are naturally creative, and they can improve their artistic abilities and expand their skills with an associate’s degree in digital photography. This degree program also helps you to develop skills in business and communication.

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Common areas of study include lighting, color, and portfolio development. You may be well-positioned to work for a specific publication or to take on a related role such as a lighting technician or photo editor. Many digital photographers also work independently and offer their services on a freelance basis.

Online Associates Degree in Psychology

Youth Counselor in a session with a child

While earning an associate’s degree in psychology, students explore subjects like personality types, mental health disorders, and human development. Psychology professionals excel at understanding people’s behavior and addressing conflict.

A two-year psychology program may help prepare you for positions in healthcare settings like hospitals, psychiatric facilities, and treatment centers. Schools, law enforcement agencies, and government offices also hire psychology graduates. Possible job opportunities for psychology graduates include home care aides, psychiatric technicians, and youth counselors.

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Students who hope to become psychologists or counselors may also use an associate’s degree as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s program.

Online Associates Degree in Social Work

social worker visiting an elderly couple at home

If you’re interested in working closely with individuals, groups, families, and communities and helping people resolve problems, an Associate in Social Work may be a great choice for you.

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This degree can help open the door to entry-level positions, such as case management aides, intake specialists, probation officers, substance abuse counselors, victim advocate associates, and more.

Common Types of Associates Degrees at Online Colleges

university students preparing for online class

Are there different types of online associates degrees? Once you have decided to pursue associate degrees online, the next step is deciding which type of degree is right for you.

There are three common types of online associate’s degrees with affordable programs:

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS Degree): While the A.A. and A.S. degrees are designed to give students the foundational skills needed to transfer to 4-year programs, online Associate of Applied Science degree programs usually offer something different. In an A.A.S. degree program, you will likely take career-specific courses that offer a well-rounded education to help you directly enter the workforce after graduation.
  • Associate of Arts (AA Degree): Like Associate of Science degree programs, online programs for an A.A. degree are typically designed to lay the foundation for moving into bachelor’s degree programs. Along with career-specific training, your A.A. degree program will likely cover a core liberal arts curriculum that is intended to give you a broad knowledge base of several essential subjects.
  • Associate of Science (AS Degree): Associate of Science degree programs are typically designed to prepare students for transfer into bachelor’s degree programs. During an A.S. degree program, you will likely concentrate on completing core education courses that will lay the foundation for your future bachelor’s degree.

The best choice of a 2-year program for you depends on your future career goals and whether you plan to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program or move straight into the workforce.

Associates Careers & Salaries

Associates Careers & Salaries

Depending on your major, earning an associate’s degree can open the door to many different kinds of careers. Many online associate degrees focus on areas related to healthcare. Dental offices, hospitals, psychiatric facilities, and medical practices have positions for employees with associate degrees.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are some of the most common career paths for graduates that have completed associate degree programs.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Radiation Therapists $82,790
Dental Hygienists $77,810
Registered Nurses $77,600
Web Developers $78,300
Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representatives $62,890
Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides $61,520
Computer Support Specialists $57,910
Paralegals and Legal Assistants $56,230
Photographers $38,950
Psychiatric Technicians and Aides $36,320

Many of these positions pay above-average salaries and have excellent projected growth over the next several years.

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For example, occupational therapy assistants (25%) and paralegals (14%) are expected to grow at rates that are much faster than the average for all occupations.

How to Choose an Online Associate’s Degree Program

student taking online Associates Degree program

Selecting the right school for your online associate’s degree can be challenging. As you evaluate your options, it may be helpful to consider these factors:

  • Format: Schools offer online courses in two formats: synchronous and asynchronous. Synchronous courses involve live lectures that you must attend at a specific time, while asynchronous courses have previously recorded material that you can view at the time that works best for you. Determine whether the online program offers one or both types of courses and which is more appropriate for your needs.
  • Cost: Two-year colleges frequently offer very affordable programs, but it’s still important to evaluate the total cost of attendance. Speaking to the financial aid office can help clarify any fees that you will have to pay in addition to tuition.
  • Accreditation: If an online college is not accredited, you’re better served to look into other options. Accreditation helps ensure that you are receiving the best possible education and that the courses you complete will transfer to other schools.
  • Resources: Many of today’s associate’s degree programs offer students services and resources that are the same as those available to students attending on campus. Look for programs that have resources like tutoring, accessibility, college advisor services, library research specialists, and career placement.

During your research, you may find more than one college that meets your requirements. Reaching out to recruiters, department faculty, and alumni may help clarify your decision.

Associate Degree Program Admissions Requirements for Students

Man preparing requirements for Associates Degree

What is the application process like for an online associate degree program? Some common criteria that students must meet or submit to be considered for an associate’s degree program might include:

  • SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require these)
  • Official transcripts from prior education
  • Completed application
  • Letters of recommendation

When you’re ready to enroll, it is a good idea to take the time to meet with an academic advisor at your school of choice.

Accreditation

University offering Associates Degree Programs

Colleges and universities have the opportunity to demonstrate the quality of their programs by applying for national or regional accreditation. To become accredited, they must undergo a thorough evaluation and assessment process.

Affordable colleges with regional accreditation are generally ideal because they have met the highest possible standards of academic quality. Employers often look more favorably at degrees from accredited institutions. If you plan to transfer to a bachelor’s program in the future, keep in mind that most schools accept credits and associate’s degrees from regionally accredited programs.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Online Colleges

Associates Degrees Financial Aid

An associate’s degree is usually less expensive than a bachelor’s, but it can still be a significant financial investment. There are several kinds of aid that can offset the cost of your education.

Begin your search by filing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines whether you’re eligible for federal aid. Many states also offer grants and aid programs specifically for two-year colleges.

If you are currently employed, speak to your supervisor or human resources department about tuition reimbursement or assistance programs. Finally, research scholarships for your academic major or personal circumstances, such as if you are a member of a minority group.

What Is an Associate Degree?

college student checking e-mails on laptop

An online associate degree is the same as a traditional associate degree with the coursework being completed online or through a hybrid schedule.

An associate degree is an undergraduate degree between a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree. These programs can be found at community and technical colleges, vocational schools, and some 4-year colleges and universities.

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Associate degrees can provide an educational foundation, a stepping stone from which you can transfer to a bachelor’s program, or allow you to begin your career quickly in a technical or skilled-labor industry.

Should I Get an Associate Degree?

Students taking Associates Degree in class

An associate’s degree isn’t right for everyone, but it has a lot of advantages for many students who want fast and affordable program. While bachelor’s degrees offer higher earnings in many careers, associate’s degree graduates in several fields have above-average earnings with excellent opportunities for advancement.

Freelancers and consultants can also benefit from an associate’s degree because they build their skills and expertise. If you are anxious to begin working, an associate’s degree makes it possible to complete your degree more quickly. It is also a cost-effective way of starting your path toward a bachelor’s degree if that is your ultimate goal.

Can You Get an Associate College Degree Online?

Man taking Associates Degree online

Yes, you can earn an associate’s degree entirely online. Many colleges offer fully online two-year degrees in a variety of fields. The curriculum, faculty, and resources of these programs are often equal to on-campus offerings.

One of the greatest advantages of completing an associate’s degree online is flexibility. You can work at the time and place that best fits your schedule. You can communicate with your instructors and classmates via email, video chats, and discussion boards. This makes it possible for many students with other obligations, such as work or family, to earn a degree.

Are Online Associate College Degree Programs Respected?

Student studying in the library with laptop

Earning degrees online can be just as credible, legit, and respected as those earned on campus. The key, for online and traditional programs alike, is accreditation. To be regionally accredited, schools must meet very strict standards established by a board or agency.

To find accredited programs, you can search the US Department of Education’s database. It’s also worth noting that unless your degree is earned from an online-only school or you specify it in your resume, employers will likely not know you earned your degree online.

What Can Students Do With an Online AS Degree?

People with Associates Degree working in a marketing agency

Healthcare, technology, and law are all popular areas of employment for graduates of associate degree programs. If you are interested in working in the medical field, roles like radiation therapists and dental hygienists pay healthy salaries. Many registered nurses also become licensed after completing a two-year program.

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If you prefer to work with technology, an associate’s degree can help you prepare for a position as a web developer or computer support specialist. Students who hope to pursue careers in law can study to become paralegals or legal assistants.

How Much Does an Associates Degree Cost Online?

Woman pursuing Associates Degree online

The cost of your online associate degree, just like for online bachelor’s degrees, will depend on many factors, including the type of school and the major you pursue.

Although tuition varies, you can expect to pay between $120 to $250 per credit hour when pursuing an online associate’s degree. Occasionally, online programs can be less expensive as schools typically don’t charge out-of-state tuition fees to online students.

Online students are less likely to have as many additional expenses, like campus fees, commuting costs, and parking fees, and often don’t have to purchase expensive textbooks and course materials.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree Online?

group of students working on laptop in classroom

How long does it take to earn an online associates degree? If able to attend full-time, it usually takes 2 years to earn an online college associate’s degree, which is the same amount of time it usually takes someone to earn one on campus.

If you follow a traditional, 16-week semester and attend full-time, it will take two years for an associate’s degree. If you follow an 8-week semester and stay continuously enrolled year-round, you can finish in less time. Some schools offer accelerated online programs where it is possible to earn an associate degree in as little as one year.

How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate’s Degree?

Associates Degrees Income

How much money can I make with an online associate degree is a common question when pursuing your education.

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), workers with associate degrees earn a median weekly salary of $887. Compared to the $746 median weekly salaries earned by those with only a high school diploma, an associate’s degree can boost your earnings significantly.

According to the BLS, these are some of the highest-paying jobs you could pursue with an associate degree along with their median annual salaries and projected growth rate over the next 10 years.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Radiation Therapists $82,790
Nuclear Medicine Technologists $78,760
Dental Hygienists $77,810
Web Developers and Digital Designers $77,200
Computer Support Specialists $57,910

As you can see, these are growing fields with impressive salaries. While some of the top-paying degrees may not be able to be pursued exclusively through online education, many schools offer hybrid programs and other flexible alternatives designed for working adults.

Can I Transfer Credits Into an Associates Degree Online?

Students researching on transferring credits to Associates Degree

Are you wondering if you can transfer credits you already have to use toward an online associate degree? It’s helpful to know that if you started a degree program at an accredited institution, your credits are more likely to transfer to the accredited college or university of your choice.

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Ultimately, it will be at the school’s discretion which credits are accepted and how they apply toward your degree. If you do have credits you wish to transfer, it’s important to check your school’s transfer policy and speak to an academic advisor to make sure you will get credit for the work you’ve completed.

Do Associate Degree Credits Transfer to Bachelor Degree?

Friends checking on transfering credits from Associate's to Bachelor's degree

Many students who enroll in associate degree programs do so with the intention of transferring their credits to a four-year college. They typically save money while completing their general education requirements.

Some institutions offer bridge programs that allow students to transition seamlessly from a two-year school to a four-year college. Associate degree students can refer to the curriculum for their future bachelor’s degrees to select the courses that will be most beneficial.

Some courses that you take may not be transferable. Attending an accredited associate’s degree program is essential to ensuring that you can transfer as many credits as possible.

What’s the Difference Between Online Degrees vs. Traditional Degrees?

college students doing online activities

What is the difference between an online associate degree and a traditional degree? The primary difference between online learning and traditional, in-the-classroom learning is the way the material is delivered to students. The best learning format for you will really be up to your personal preference and learning style.

Below we’ve listed some of the important differences to consider.

Online Degrees:

  • Allow you the flexibility to study anywhere with an internet connection, often at any time
  • Often allow you to work at your own pace so you can fly through your degree program or scale back when life gets hectic
  • Make it possible to attend without having to move
  • May cost less than traditional programs
  • Don’t subject you to long commutes or parking hassles

Earning an online associate’s degree requires self-motivation and discipline. You will have to stay on top of things and keep yourself organized so you don’t fall behind.

Traditional Degrees:

  • Provide a structured schedule
  • Allow you to interact face-to-face with professors and classmates
  • Have more safeguards for keeping you on track, such as reminders for assignments and exams
  • May lack flexibility
  • Limited to schools within your proximity or pay to live on-campus

As you can see, there are pros and cons to both. You will have to consider which format works best for you, fits within your lifestyle, and will help you achieve your goals.

What’s the Difference Between an Associate Degree vs. Bachelor Degree?

Associate’s and bachelor’s degrees are both valuable credentials but have key differences based on the degree type.

Associate’s Degree Bachelor’s Degree
  • Typically takes 2 years to complete based on your schedule
  • Require 60 credit hours
  • Less expensive
  • Designed for a more specific set of careers
  • Typically takes 4 years to complete based on your schedule
  • Require 120 credit hours
  • May be more expensive
  • Designed for a broader set of careers

Earning an associate’s degree is a logical step for students who are unsure whether they want to invest their time and money into a bachelor’s program.

Is an Associate Degree Worth It?

Man taking online Associates Degree

Yes, an associate degree is worth it for many professionals. If you are eager to enter the workforce but want to strengthen your resume, an associate degree may be a great fit. Associate’s degrees require a smaller financial investment than bachelor’s programs, but they also offer ample job opportunities. Many of these careers show strong growth potential for the future.

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, web developers (23%), psychiatric technicians (9%), and dental hygienists (9%) are among the positions that require an associate’s degree and are expected to grow at rates that are much faster than average.

Best Colleges Offering Online Associates Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer associate degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

American Public University

American Public University

American Public University offers over 25 associate degree programs designed for students with high school diplomas or the equivalent. The programs are fully online and require the completion of 60 credit hours.

There are monthly start dates, and courses are conducted in an asynchronous format with scheduled due dates. Fields of study offered include counterterrorism, military history, and culinary and food service management.

APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Baker College

Baker College

Baker College offers two options to earn an associate degree online: Baker Online and Online Live. While both programs are fully online, Baker Online follows an asynchronous format, and Online Live has scheduled online meetings. Courses are between 8 and 16 weeks long. Fields of study offered include health information technology and criminal justice.

Baker College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Bismarck State College

Bismarck State College

Bismarck State College offers online learning opportunities for adult learners. BSC offers 16 fully online associate degree programs. Programs either follow a semester schedule or an 8 week, accelerated format. There are multiple start dates offered each year. Areas of study offered include web page development and design and electric power technology.

Bismarck State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Central Texas College

Central Texas College

Central Texas College provides distance education programs for students all over the world. CTC offers over 30 online associate degree programs. Most programs are fully online, while others have on-campus components. Many are self-paced, and courses start each month. Fields of study offered include child development and homeland security and emergency management.

Central Texas College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Century College

Century College

Century College aims to provide its students with affordable associate degree programs that are easily transferable to 4 year colleges. Many of these programs are available fully online. Some programs are offered in a hybrid format. Some programs are asynchronous, while others are synchronous. Degree fields offered include addiction counseling, applied big data analytics, and gender studies.

Century College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia College

Columbia College

Columbia College offers online and night degree programs designed for students who need flexibility in their schedules. Columbia offers associate degrees that can be earned fully online. Courses are conducted in an asynchronous format. There are six start dates offered each year, and classes are 8 weeks long. Fields of study offered include health services, criminal justice, and real estate management.

Columbia College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Delta College

Delta College

Delta College aims to provide students with an affordable education with the convenience they require. Delta offers 8 associate degree programs. The programs are fully online, and courses are conducted in an asynchronous format. Courses are 7.5 to 15 weeks long. Areas of study offered include business information technology and cybersecurity.

Delta College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

DeVry University

DeVry University

DeVry University offers a variety of associate degrees that can be earned fully online. There are six sessions offered each year, and classes are 8 weeks long. An associate degree can potentially be earned in just 16 months. Degree fields offered include business and automation and electronic systems.

DeVry University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Georgia State University

Georgia State University

Georgia State University offers online programs designed to provide the same quality education and taught by the same instructors as their on-campus counterparts. GSU’s associate degrees may be earned fully online or in a hybrid format. Most courses are conducted in an asynchronous format. Fields of study offered include health and physical education, film and media studies, and political science.

Georgia State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools: Commission on Colleges.

Hutchinson Community College

Hutchinson Community College

Hutchinson Community College has received several recognitions from Colleges of Distinction. It offers several fully online associate degree programs. Courses are conducted in 8 week bi-terms or follow a traditional semester schedule with 16 week classes. Degree fields offered include mass communication, business administration, public health, and missions and ministry.

Hutchinson Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University

Liberty University

Niche named Liberty University among the best online colleges in the country. The school offers associate degree programs that are designed to be easily transferred into bachelor’s degree programs. The programs are fully online, and courses are conducted in an asynchronous, 8 week format. Eight start dates are offered each year. Degree fields offered include creative writing and religion.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Lone Star College

Lone Star College

Lone Star College offers fully online associate degree programs in a wide variety of fields. There are several start dates offered each year. Many classes are conducted in an 8 week format. Shorter formats are offered during the winter and summer. Fields of study offered include civil engineering, administrative services, and health information technology.

Lone Star College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

MassBay Community College

MassBay Community College

MassBay Community College offers a variety of distance learning options for earning associate degrees. The school’s online programs feature asynchronous learning, while remote programs have scheduled online class meetings. Blended programs are also available.

Students may transfer credits through the MassTransfer program with Massachusetts universities. Fields of study offered include liberal arts, criminal justice, psychology, and social science.

MassBay Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Northern Virginia Community College

Northern Virginia Community College

Northern Virginia Community College offers a variety of online associate degree programs. Most programs are fully online and conducted in an asynchronous format. These degrees can typically be completed in 2 years. Courses range in length from 4 to 15 weeks long to better suit various schedules. Fields of study offered include accounting and science.

Northern Virginia Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University’s World Campus offers seven fully online associate degree programs. All courses are offered in an asynchronous format. They follow a regular semester schedule with start dates in the fall, spring, and summer. Degree fields offered include labor and human resources, human development and family studies, and turfgrass science and management.

Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Post University

Post University

Post University has offered online learning since 1996. Post offers six associate degrees that can be earned entirely online. Some degree programs have evening and weekend, on-campus class options. Many courses are offered in an asynchronous format. Fields of study offered include legal studies and early childhood education.

Post University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Purdue University

Purdue University

Purdue University offers several options to earn an associate degree online, including fully online and hybrid programs. Synchronous and asynchronous programs are offered. These programs offer the same degrees as their on-campus counterparts. Fields of study offered include information technology, health science, and fire science.

Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Seminole State College of Florida

Seminole State College of Florida

Seminole State College of Florida offers a variety of associate degrees that can be earned fully online or in a hybrid format. Online courses follow a traditional semester schedule and may be attended during the fall, spring, or summer. Fields of study offered include social media and marketing and supply chain management.

Seminole State College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers a variety of associate degrees that can be earned fully online. Most courses are offered in an asynchronous format.

Courses are 8 weeks long, and several start dates are offered each year. Degrees may be earned in 2 years or less, depending on the program and course load. Fields of study offered include accounting and fashion merchandising.

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

University of the Cumberlands

University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands offers 20 online associate degree programs. These programs are designed for students who need flexible schedules.

Several start dates are offered each year. Courses are either conducted in an 8 week, accelerated format or follow a traditional semester schedule. Degree fields offered include mass communication, psychology, and missions and ministry.

The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Getting Your Associate Degree Online

student getting her Associates Degree Online

An associate’s degree is an attractive option for people who want to advance their careers in a shorter period of time. With an online two-year degree, you may be well-positioned to enter an exciting new position in a rewarding field.

Students from many different areas can benefit from an associate’s degree. Whether you hope to work in a medical setting, private business, law office, or IT department, earning a degree may help you move toward your professional goals more quickly.

Begin your journey toward a new career by researching accredited online associate’s degree programs today.

Ready to start your journey?
Kama Offenberger
WRITTEN BY Kama Offenberger

Kama has a master's degree in English from Virginia Tech and a bachelor's in English from Concord University. She previously taught college-level English composition, literature, and English as a second language courses. She is now a full-time writer in the education field, with a particular focus on educational technology and pedagogical best practices for English language learners.