A college degree can boost anyone’s career, as it can help workers earn higher salaries and climb the management ladder. However, many people do not have the time or money to invest in a four-year bachelor’s degree at a traditional university. They need a solution that will work for them more quickly, to get them into the workforce as soon as possible, and many need the flexibility of an online degree education.
The answer to the four year problem could be an associate’s degree. Students can earn an associate’s degree in two years at a community or online college, and typically pay much less for classes than at a liberal arts college or large university. In addition, they can choose to study almost any field, including business, marketing, education, healthcare and technology.
A shortened course of study means most students will not be saddled with student loans once they graduate, and will be ready to return to the job market sooner. This benefits students, lenders, and employers looking for the most eligible candidates. Qualified individuals will have a better chance at gaining employment, which will be reflected by their educational experience and the skills gained from it.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says an online associate’s degree can increase earning potential, as associate’s degree holders make about 15 percent more than individuals who only have high school diplomas. In a changing job market and weak economy, it is now more important than ever before to further you education in order to be more seriously considered for employment.
Convenience is another hallmark of most schools that award associates degrees. Most online colleges offer flexible schedules, including the opportunity to take online courses that can be completed on a student’s own time. What better way to complete your coursework than from the comfort of your own home and when your schedule permits it?
All these reasons have made the associates degree a very popular option. Studies show that almost half of all American college students are enrolled in two year programs. Enrolling in a two year program is a great way to start your education and get the ball rolling on a career as soon as you graduate.
They are typically studying for two types of associate’s degree – an occupational degree that qualifies them for work in a certain field, or a transferable degree they can use to enter a bachelor’s degree program after earning about half of their prerequisite credits. In fact, four out of 10 college-bound high school graduates start their college education by earning an associate’s degree.
Earning an associate’s degree is also a terrific tool for retraining, as many adult students may need to upgrade their skills for a second career or to re-enter the workforce. Typical concentrations for an associate of arts degree include economics, elementary education, psychology and sociology, while common topics for an associate of science degree are engineering, business administration and computer science. Individuals who are working toward an associate of applied science degree often choose to study graphic design, food service management, medical assisting or automotive technology.