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Over 600,000 students earn Associate Degrees each year in the US. Many 4-year institutions also offer associate’s degrees, with over 2,832 accredited 4-year schools in the US offering these degrees by 2017.

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There are several types of Associate Degrees, each with its unique advantages and differences.

Associate of Arts Degree (AA)

The AA degree is aligned with liberal arts subjects and is often pursued by students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree with a major in humanities, social science, or fine arts.

Associate of Science Degree (AS)

The AS degree is typically geared towards STEM disciplines and is a good choice for students who want to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, or engineering.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree

The AAS degree emphasizes technical skills and practical, hands-on training experiences that prepare students for direct entry into the workforce. Some jobs an AAS may help you get include nurse practitioner, veterinary technician, culinary worker, automotive repair technician, dental hygienist, computer programmer, and graphic designer.

Occupational Associate Degrees

Occupational Associate Degrees are career-focused and designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for entry-level positions in fields such as healthcare, business administration, criminal justice, information technology, and paralegal studies. These degrees often incorporate internships or practicums to provide real-world experience in the chosen field.

Pros and Cons of Associate Degrees

Associate Degrees offer several advantages, including the opportunity to save money on fees and tuition, the ability to finish in two years instead of four, and the potential to boost chances for getting into a competitive research university as a “transfer student.” Additionally, technical and vocational associate degree programs may reward you with a quick career launch in fields such as nursing, computer science, automotive repair, and more.

However, some disadvantages include finding less course options at a 2-year college, instructors at 2-year colleges potentially having less credentials and research experience compared to those at 4-year institutions, and potentially limiting opportunities to access certain kinds of careers and professions without a bachelor’s degree.

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When considering an Associate Degree, it is crucial to weigh your individual goals and interests. For some, an Associate Degree is a great way to try out college life and explore different subjects, buying time to make a decision about a longer, more costly bachelor’s degree program.