An associate degree is an undergraduate academic degree awarded after completing a post-secondary program that typically lasts two years of full- time study. It is positioned academically above a high school diploma but below a bachelor's degree
. Key characteristics of an associate degree:
- Duration: Usually takes about two years full-time, equating to around 60 credit hours in the U.S. Some programs may take up to three years depending on the institution and country
- Purpose: Provides foundational technical and academic knowledge and transferable skills for employment or further education. It can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or as a qualification for direct entry into the workforce
- Types: Common types include Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), Associate of Applied Arts (A.A.A.), Associate of Applied Business (A.A.B.), and Associate Degree in Nursing (A.D.N.), each tailored to different academic or career goals
- Cost and accessibility: Generally more affordable and less time-consuming than a bachelor's degree, with less competitive entry requirements. It is offered mainly in the U.S., Canada, and some other countries, often through community colleges, junior colleges, and technical colleges
- Credit transfer: Many associate degrees allow transfer of credits toward a bachelor's degree, potentially shortening the time needed for further study
In summary, an associate degree is a two-year undergraduate qualification that prepares students either for immediate employment or for continuing education at the bachelor's level, offering a cost-effective and accessible pathway in higher education
