Associate degrees in the US and Canada

Two-years of undergraduate degree equivalent to bachelor’s

If you are thinking of studying in the United States or Canada, there is another wonderful option of associate degrees accessible in addition to regular degree options such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and PhDs.
Read on to learn more about associate degrees in the United States and Canada and how they can help you advance in your profession.

What are associate degrees?

An associate degree is an academic program offered at the undergraduate level that provides students with the fundamental technical and transferable skills, as well as the academic knowledge required to immediately enter the workforce or extend their education in the chosen field.

Why choose associate degrees?

There are various reasons why associate degrees are so popular among international students:

It is simple to launch a career.

It is reasonably priced.

Bachelors students might follow a path to their selected college.

Find your passion before earning a bachelor’s degree.

Obtain the most relevant qualifications and skills as determined by employers.

Difference between a bachelor’s degree and associate degrees

Undergraduate students can pursue both bachelor’s and associate degrees, but there are some major differences to be aware of before deciding which to pursue:

Basis	Bachelor’s degree	Associate degrees
Time	A bachelor’s degree is typically a four-year full-time course.	The associate degree is typically a two-year full-time course.
Cost	The cost of a bachelor’s degree is typically two to three times that of an associate degree.	Tuition fees for associate degrees are generally lower than the bachelor’s degree. Also, you can save on expenses for two-years
Entry	The admittance standards are specified ahead of time, and they are often strict.	The entry requirements for associate degrees are less competitive and flexible, and they also serve as a stepping stone to a desired bachelor’s program.
Part-time option	There is no part-time option for this degree.	Associate degrees can also be completed part-time, but it will take a long time.

Types of associate degrees

Associate degrees are available in four types: AA (Associate of Arts), AAA (Associate of Applied Arts), AS (Associate of Science), and AAS (Associate of Applied Science). The applied course is career-specific and focuses on practical skills. These programs are designed for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees or preparing for higher academic study.

Transferring from associate degrees to a bachelor’s degree

Transfer process is straightforward until course credits are accepted by your preferred institution for a particle bachelor’s program. Transfer credits and enroll in the desired degree in a 2+2 arrangement. To prepare, examine prerequisites and credits in specific classes at your chosen institution.

Steps to choose an associate degree program

1. Compare your abilities and interests.
2. To plan your future, choose a career that interests you and provides success. Reflect on your job and explore alternative career options based on hobbies and interests.
3. Thorough investigation
4. Research your abilities and interests to analyze career aspects and job category factors.
5. Reduce your options
6. After choosing a career path, consider options like university, college, program, and faculty.

Career scope

Associate degrees offer diverse career prospects depending on degree type and chosen subject. 
Here’s the list of jobs that paid well in the US after the associate degrees in 2019: