30 Best Online Associates Degree Programs [2024 Guide]

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Online Associates Degree

Gone are the days when you have to stop your life to go to college. Now, you can earn your associate’s degree online.

With online associate’s degrees, you have the convenience of getting a college education at your own pace while working and taking care of your family.

Associates Degree Online

We’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular associate’s degrees offered online.

Click on the associate degree program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide.

Each of these associate’s degree programs can help prepare you for entry-level positions in your chosen field.

Accounting

accountant working on her computer

An online associates degree in accounting can help you start a career in the accounting sector. With this associate degree program, you can pursue a variety of entry-level jobs in the field. The good thing about the field of accounting is that every industry has businesses requiring accounting staff.

You might find work anywhere from a local medical center or a big accounting firm. You may pursue jobs as a payroll accountant, cost accountant, staff accountant, accounting technician, and more. This degree can help you pursue a very exciting future in accounting.

If you love numbers and don’t mind a job where you perform repetitive tasks, earning an accounting associate degree may be a good choice for you. In our modern world with remote work and telecommuting, this may also a great option to keep yourself in the pool of in-demand jobs that can survive the new working era.

Business Administration

office manager working on her computer

With an online associate’s degree in business administration, there is a focus on leadership, strong management, strategic decision making, what keeps a business running.

There is a steady rate of growth projected for all positions in the business and financial sectors, and as such, it is often a great degree to get into the vast field of business.

With the flexibility offered by online degrees, you have the option to complete your associate degree program without the commitment required of full-time college courses.

Upon completion of an associate degree in business, you should be able to find work as administrative assistants, operations managers, office managers, and more.

Most industries will require business and office personnel, so you should be able to find jobs across a vast number of different industries as well.

Child Development

preschool teacher teaching a child how to write

With a child development Associate degree, you may be able to pursue a career in the fields of administration, psychology, and teaching. This type of degree may be ideal for those who love to work with children and who want to help mold them into the best adults they can become.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the jobs for preschool teachers are expected to see a 2% growth over the next ten years. Positions for kindergarten and elementary school teachers are expected to see a 4% growth. School counselor jobs are expected to see an 8% growth.

With a child development degree, you should have a sharper focus on the emotional, psychological, and physiological growth of children. With this degree, you can seek out jobs in daycare centers, preschools, child enrichment centers, and more.

You may pursue work as a preschool teacher, teaching assistant, daycare provider, and head-start teacher.

Computer Science

data administrator working on his laptop

An online computer science associates degree can help you start a career in the IT industry. Its jobs are in demand and are projected to continue to grow as we lean more and more on technology to get through our day-to-day lives.

With the possibility to complete this associate degree program within 18 months, you might be in a new or different job quite soon. Associate degrees cover information, including network security, data management, algorithms, programming or computer forensics, etc.

With an Associate of Science degree in Computer Science, you can pursue several different entry-level computer jobs. You may be employed in several different information technology areas.

The degree can help set the perfect foundation for a follow-up 4 year degree in IT in which you can go ahead and choose to further your career path in a specialized field.

Criminal Justice

forensic scientists investigating the crime scene

An online criminal justice associates degree is a social science degree that helps to identify and explain the behaviors of criminals. It is also focused on analyzing delinquency and crime control in society. It involves the study of crime, criminals, and the criminal justice system.

The coursework will likely combine political science, legal studies, psychology, sociology, forensic science, philosophy, urban studies, and philosophy. You may also learn about the ethical codes that society is expected to operate under.

A Criminal Justice degree might be right for you if you are passionate about preventing crime and helping to uphold the law.

When you graduate with an Associates degree in Criminal Justice, you can pursue work in several career paths. You might work as a criminal investigator, a corrections officer, a forensic science technician, a security guard, or go on to become a police officer.

With this associate degree, you may find that you can benefit from a higher salary package and could have more room for advancement in your current role. It can help open up several career options.

Education

high school teacher assisting her students in a classroom

An Associates degree in Education may have you going through a rigorous line of coursework. The program typically involves observation and fieldwork, hands-on experience in a classroom as well as regular coursework.

This associate degree may be ideal for persons who like to teach and those who want to have a positive impact on the lives of young people.

Graduating with an education degree can help you enter the industry as a teaching assistant. The degree may also be used as a stepping stone to further achieve a Bachelors degree in Education. Many universities also offer online bachelor’s degree programs in education.

The associate degree can help you take your first step toward a career in teaching. You may be able to find work in early childhood as a teacher’s aide or as a preschool teacher. With further training, certification, and licensure, you may be able to teach older children.

Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineer working on cables

An Associates degree in Electrical Engineering typically includes courses in engineering skills, science, and mathematics.

Electrical engineering degree programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and foundational skills necessary to enter the world of work as an engineering technician. It can also help to lay the required groundwork for further studies at a bachelor’s degree program level, including online bachelor’s degree programs.

Upon completion of this associate degree program, you pursue jobs such as Field Service Technician, Engineering Technician, Maintenance Technician, Electronics Technician, Biomedical Equipment Technician, and Electrical Technician, to name a few.

Students may learn about electronic devices as well as the development of electrical systems. They may also learn about how to apply science and mathematical principles to the design,  maintenance, and installation of electrical systems and devices.

Coursework may cover topics such as circuits, electronics, digital logic, computer programing, and computer-aided drafting design.

Elementary Education

preschool teacher reading a book to children

An Elementary Education Associate degree if often ideal for students who want to get into a teaching career path. If you love kids and love teaching, this degree may be a great starting point.

This degree can help prepare students for entry-level education and childcare jobs. With this degree, one may become a teacher’s assistant or teach preschool children or work in daycare center settings.

The degree can help prepare you for jobs in preschool, kindergarten, and up to 6th grade. Most of these entry-level careers will also require preschool teacher licensing.

The associate degree usually has a 60-credit hour requirement and combines coursework in education career courses and liberal arts. Common coursework to be completed includes education theory, early childhood development, students with special needs, and cultural issues.

An Associates in Elementary Education degree is often used as a stepping stone to get to a bachelors degree, including the online bachelor’s degree programs that many universities offer, which should open more room for more job opportunities in education.

Engineering

engineer talking to foreman in a construction site

An Associate of Science in Engineering can help you learn how to solve real-world problems as well as scientific knowledge and how to apply it. With this degree, you should be able to discover solutions to urgent issues in whichever work setting you end up in.

Common coursework includes topics on scientific theories and principles, mathematics computer science, construction technology, drafting tools, blueprints, surveying techniques, and more.

Graduates of this associate degree program can pursue work in private or government sectors. You may work in the technical service industries as well as the scientific industries or even in professional sectors.

With this degree, you can pursue career paths such as Mechanical Engineering Technician, Civil Engineering Technician, and Industrial Engineering Technician.

If you are already working in a technical job position, this degree may be the leverage you need to land a promotion or a higher salary.

Entrepreneurship

entrepreneur working on her tablet

An Associates degree in Entrepreneurship can help you become your boss. While you may start your own business without this degree, it can help you learn a lot of information that should help you to be more successful with less trial and error.

You may also use the foundational skills and knowledge learned in this degree program to become a business consultant, assisting others in launching their businesses.

The entrepreneurship degree is beneficial to many nowadays, with so many people going the freelancing career path route. The workforce is now more flexible with a lot of telecommuting and remote work that you can do at your own pace.

This associate degree can help guide you into the intricacies of running a business and work toward creating your own business and doing what you love.

This program can help you learn the different aspects of owning and managing your own business. You may learn about administration, financing, legal requirements, and much more with an Associated degree in Entrepreneurship.

Fashion

fashion designer working on a sketch in her office

The fashion industry is a very dynamic one; it is always evolving. This means that an Associate degree in Fashion can help you stay employable. With consumers using the internet more and more, it is easier to reach the customer wherever they are.

This associate degree program can help you learn how technology affects sales and the way consumers behave. You may learn about the economic climate and how technology will change this in the coming years.

You may also learn about how to understand market trends and how to work in clothing production and with designers.

This degree can help prepare you for a bachelor’s degree program and transfer credits to a four-year university. This can then help you get a foot in with entry-level jobs in apparel marketing, merchandising, and to work with textile designers.

You may be able to work with people who have a significant impact on the production, creating, and distributions of garments.

This degree may be right for you if you love to work in a hands-on job and if you love the fashion industry. It might be the boost to get you into a better position if you are already working in retail, and might get you into a supervisory position.

Fire Science

firefighters preparing the water hose to put out a fire

An Associates degree in Fire Science can help you pursue a fire department job. While it used to be okay to enter this field with a high school certificate, more and more fire departments are requiring Associates degrees.

This degree can help you to advance in your current firefighting career. This, along with years of experience, can help equip you with what you need to get a promotion to a smokejumper, captain, fire inspector, or fire investigator.

Coursework for this degree will likely include causes of fire, fire behavior, organizational structure, emergency tactics, fire suppression, wildland firefighting, and urban and rural basics.

You may also find yourself completing general education courses in communications, physics, chemistry, computer science, and psychology.

This degree may ideal for the person that has always wanted a job in a fire department. It can help prepare you for a dangerous, fast-paced career path that can be very fulfilling at the end of the day.

Graphic Design

graphic designers collaborating on a project

A degree in Graphic Design may be great for those who know they have that creative touch. This degree can help you learn how to use text, images, shape, and color to create graphics for various reasons.

It can help you learn how to use multiple media forms for complying with creative typography with images in layouts that are user-friendly. The main focus of this type of degree is creating products for illustration, advertising, publishing, web design, and several other fields.

The demand for graphic designers continues to increase as every industry uses both electronic and print media. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the median salary for graphic designers is $53,380 annually.

An Associates degree in Graphic Design can help you develop the skill set necessary to enter the field. Coursework can help you to build your strengths as you create a portfolio to take out into the world of work upon completion of your degree.

Health Services

clinic office supervisor talking to a client in the reception area

An Associates degree in Health Services can help you pursue an administrative positive in a medical office. You may also start at the entry-level as a medical coding and billing clerk.

Coursework for this degree can provide you with exposure to the basics of health insurance billing, medical terminology, coding, medical office procedures, medical transcription, and more. Some courses even include hands-on training in a medical office setting.

These two-year courses may also provide you with education in accounting, human resources, management as well as some general education courses as well. With this two-year degree, you can pursue jobs in a variety of health care settings.

You should be able to apply for employment with the titles of admitting clerk, medical records clerk, clinic office supervisor, health care administrative assistant, home health care administrative assistant, and medical claim service representative.

Healthcare Management

administrative support specialist talking to a patient on the phone

With an Associates degree in Healthcare Management, you may fill jobs such as medical secretary, patient service representative, administrative support specialist, and operations assistant.

If you have strong leadership skills and a passion for health care, this degree may be ideal for you. You may learn the essentials of health care management as well as complete courses in electronic medical coding and records, management essentials, and more.

This degree can help equip you with the necessary knowledge for sitting for industry certification to become a Certified Coding Specialist, a Certified Coding Associate, or a Certified Professional Coder.

These certifications are offered by different associations, including the American Academy of Professional Coders and the American Health Information Management Association. In addition to the degree in healthcare management, some universities also offer an online associates in healthcare administration.

Hospitality Management

hotel manager talking to a chef

An online associates degree in hospitality management can help prepare you for jobs in the tourism and travel sector. You may find employment in resorts, casinos, hotels, and transportation.

If you have a passion for people and want to interact with people from a variety of cultures, then this degree can help put you in the right place.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that management careers are expected to increase by 5% for the next 10 years. With an Associates degree in hospitality management, you may open doors for employment in tourist towns, luxury resorts, and more.

Most hospitality associate’s degree programs commonly include coursework in business, human resources, customer service, management, and more.

You may enter the workforce with this degree as a management trainee, a guest services manager, a dining room supervisor, assistant food and beverage manager, among other job titles. You may also have the opportunity to work in catering, at conference centers, and much more.

Human Services

social worker interviewing an elderly man

An online associates degree in human services can help prepare you for entry-level roles such as intake specialist, social work assistant, case management aide, victims advocate associate, community outreach worker, etc.

This online associate degree program includes typically coursework in social work, sociology, diversity, and psychology.

The Bureau of Labor and statistics forecasts a growth of 12% over the next decade for workers in the community and social service industry. If you are interested in having a positive impact on families, individuals, and communities, this may be an excellent choice for a degree.

This online associate degree program can help you learn the foundational skills and knowledge to help people. The career is often rewarding for people who are empathetic and have a love for people.

With this degree, you can help people get the resources they need to ensure they have a brighter future. You may have a positive effect on the entire community as you help to solve real-world problems on a mental and emotional level.

Information Technology

network administrators working in front of network database

An online associates degree in information technology can help you launch a career into the very dynamic field of information technology.

Some job titles you may find yourself suitable for after graduating from this program include network systems administrator, computer support specialist, database administrator, computer network architect, etc.

Working in the information technology industry often provides many great benefits. You may be able to pursue jobs in a variety of industries, many of which should be extremely interesting while being paid well for your efforts.

The job outlook for information technology is outstanding as we continue to make advances in technology to make our lives easier and to provide us with more convenient ways to accomplish our day-to-day tasks.

Marketing

art director checking photos during photo shoot

An Associates degree in Marketing may be an excellent start to get into professional advertising and branding. Nowadays, most businesses have their very own marketing departments, and this degree can help you get into a job.

Typical coursework in marketing associate’s degree programs includes content in advertising, consumer behavior, business regulations as well as principles of marketing. This is the minimum requirement for getting into the field of marketing.

Equipped with this degree, you may be able to get into advertising, market research, product management, and more. You may also want to transfer credits to a 4 year marketing bachelor’s degree program.

You should be able to apply for jobs with the titles of business operations specialist, market research analyst, public relations specialist, sales supervisor, or even art director.

Medical Assisting

doctor and nurse checking on a patient's records

This Associate degree is often ideal for those who want to become medical assistants. The Associates degree features a comprehensive study in the tasks specific to complete the job of a medical assistant.

In most medical assisting associate’s degree programs, you will most likely work under the supervision of a physician. You may also work under the supervision of other health care providers.

You can use this online associate degree program to apply for jobs such as radiology technician, surgical technologist, phlebotomist assistant, respiratory therapist assistant, and more.

For this degree, you will need to complete course work in doing supplementary medical tasks such as medication administration, charting, X-ray placement, urinalysis, and even bookkeeping. The forecast for job growth in this field is 19% over the next decade (Bureau of Labor Statistics), making it an up-and-coming area.

To enhance your opportunities further, you can obtain a professional certification after completing the Associates degree. This certificate is conferred by the American Association of Medical Assistants as well as the American Medical Technologists agency.

Medical Coding

medical coder working on her computer

With this Associates degree, you should be able to enter the field of medical billers and coders. This career is currently in high demand and is offered in several forms. There are diploma, certificate, Associate, and Bachelors options.

Choosing the Associates option can help you set yourself apart and make yourself more marketable for entry-level jobs.

This program typically covers general education continent as well as content related to billing and coding, administrative coursework, customer service, and more. Your Associates degree should allow you to move to the Bachelors degree easier when you are ready to take the next step.

With this Associate degree and prior experience working in a health care facility, you may create the right environment to be promoted or to change roles to one that is better matched with the career future you are envisioning for yourself.

Medical Office Administration

office administrator talking to a client in an office

If you want to work in the health sector but are looking for more of a non-clinical job setting, an Associate degree in Medical Office Administration may be the right pick.

This degree can help equip you to work in several health care settings, and often there are areas of specialization from which you can choose.

Expect to complete coursework in medical ethics and law, business skills, medical transcription, software applications, coding and billing, and more. Some programs have an externship requirement that allows you to get hands-on training, which can be a big plus when you go out job hunting.

With the knowledge gained from this program, you should be able to manage health records and information and use computer software for billing and coding. You can further enhance your marketability by taking a certification exam after completing this Associates degree.

With this online associate degree program, you may pursue a job as medical coder, medical secretary, or office administrator. You may be able to find employment in insurance companies, clinics, hospitals, and even doctor’s offices.

Network Administration

network administrator working in data room

A Network Administration Associates degree can help you obtain the foundational skills needed to work in several networking job settings. With this degree, you may pursue work in computer support, network support, and network installation.

Network administrators work to ensure that all software programs and security functions on a computer network are working cohesively.

With this degree, you may gain employment in private corporations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, schools, and so much more.

There is a growing demand for skilled professionals across all fields of information technology, and so this field is expected to see a 4% growth over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Large companies have growth projections that will likely continue to grow, and the healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing.

With this degree, you may be in demand as companies try to maintain their networking standards, keeping themselves and their customers’ information safe.

Paralegal

Paralegal and lawyer working together

An Associate degree can help you gain an edge when you want to get a job in the paralegal field. The program typically is a 60-credit hour program with around 15 credit hours of general education courses.

Also known as legal assistants, you may work in legal offices and be a part of teams. You might assist with administration, preparing documents, interviewing, and researching.

The Associates degree can help you build a broad foundation on the ins and outs of the legal system.

With this degree in hand, you may find work in private legal offices or government offices as well. The profession is expected to see average growth with projected growth for this job title is 10% for the next 10 years (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Since most companies don’t require education as a paralegal, an associate’s degree in paralegal studies can help set you apart from the rest of the candidates. This may be a great way to get a foot into the door of legal firms if you hope to someday become a lawyer.

Pharmacy

pharmacist checking label of medicine

An Associates degree in Pharmacy technology can help equip you to work in an assistive role within a pharmacy setting. The degree may give you hands-on training as well as lecture-based instruction. This degree can help you learn what you need to know to sit the national certification exam.

Your coursework may include instruction in medical terminology, biology, chemistry, and general ed courses as well. You may learn to handle patient paperwork, insurance claims, pricing prescriptions, filling prescriptions, taking inventory, stocking inventory, and more.

All of this is typically done by working alongside a registered pharmacist.  Additionally, you may learn the fundamentals of pharmacology anatomy and physiology, pharmacology mathematics, medical laws, and pharmacy administration.

You may find work in private pharmacies, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy call centers, specialty pharmacies, in hospital pharmacies and may work to distribute medications to ambulatory care settings, in-home care or extended care settings, etc.

You should be able to apply for job titles such as pharmacy records manager, pharmacy billing specialist, and pharmacy technician.

Photography

wedding photographer working

Pursuing an Associates degree in Photography can help you learn the professional way to take photographs. It can help you learn the concepts of film speed, style, and light and how these all affect the quality of the final product.

You may cover theory and general education courses to help you better your craft. For this degree, you will likely have to purchase an array of equipment, including a camera, a variety of lenses, a quality photo printer, and lighting equipment.

A digital photography course can help you learn the skills of editing and formatting images to produce a top-quality finished and printed photograph. You may also learn about the various equipment and editing software available for use.

Once you have completed this course of study, you may venture out into entrepreneurship. You may be able to find jobs as photographers at your usual in-store photoshops, resorts, hotels, design agencies, entertainment companies, etc.

Public Safety Administration

police officers walking on the streets

If you want a job that allows you to make a positive, meaningful impact on your community, then a job in Public Safety Administration may be a good fit. An Associates degree in Public Safety Administration can help you open doors to several different career options.

You may be able to work in Emergency Management, Fire Prevention, Law Enforcement, or Government. You might have the job of protecting the public from various harmful threats.

The demand for a job in the protective service field is average, with an expected growth of up to 3% over the next decade (Bureau of Labor Statistics). The most in-demand job titles include emergency manager, firefighters, detective, and police officer.

If you are a quick thinker and work well under pressure while having an urge to dedicate yourself to serve others, you may be a good pick for this Associates degree and the jobs that come with it.

If you are diligent and hardworking and are up to the task of committing to the principles of abiding and upholding public safety, you may do well to advance your career with this degree.

Retail & Sales Management

retail manager assisting an employee

An Associates degree in Retail & Sales Management is designed to introduce students to selling, advertising, and purchasing concepts.

You may study several business-related topics as well as retailing theories, an overview of marketing, computer practices, managing, administration, accounting, and communication.

The degree is often an excellent choice for those who want a career in retail management or the retail sector on the whole. You may use this degree to help you to advance in your current retail job. The degree can help get you into entry-level to mid-level careers in the retail industry.

With this degree, you may land a role that has you working directly with management to oversee staff. The staff you may be supervising could include greeters, customer service representatives, stock clerks, or cashiers based on the setting.

Getting this degree can help you to move up the ladder if you are currently working in any of the above-mentioned roles. You may be able to move up to assistant store manager, shift manager, or store key holder.

Small Business

office receptionist talking to a client on the phone

A Small Business Associates degree can help you develop all the skills you need to venture into your own business or to start a consulting firm to help people turn their business ideas into fully-fledged profitable companies.

You may have coursework in leadership, accounting, marketing, financial management, and business law. You may find programs that have an internship component attached that gives you some hands-on training in a small business environment.

While attending school, you may have the opportunity to work on your own small business, especially when you take advantage of the flexibility of online courses.

Many schools will have networking events that you can attend and will have talks and presentations were other small business owners come in and share with students their successes and struggles. Most programs will have resources you can use to launch ventures closer to your graduation.

You are not limited to starting a small business or helping others with theirs. With this associate degree in business, you can seek traditional employment as well. You may land jobs in office environments as a customer service representative, financial clerk, or receptionist, to name a few.

Special Education

Special Education teacher teaching a child with down syndrome

If you are considering getting the Child Care Development Credential (CDA), you can start with an Associates’ degree in Special Education. With this degree and certification, you may be able to work in several different types of early childhood settings.

This is a national credential that can allow you to pursue work with children to provide the necessary support for emotional, intellectual, and social growth.

The program length for this degree is, on average, between 64 and 69 credit hours. You will likely take several general education courses, special education courses, and early childhood courses. If you have not previously obtained CPR certifications, arrangements will likely be made for you to complete it.

The program for this Associates degree is very similar to the curriculum provided for an Associates degree in early childhood education. And so, the types of careers you can engage in tend to overlap when it comes to both degrees.

You may be able to find employment as a child care professional, a preschool teacher, or a teacher aide.

Is an Associates Degree Online Accredited?

nice-looking university campus

When it comes to any kind of education, the most crucial question is whether it is an accredited degree program or not. Accreditation is a throughout vetting process that ensures that the educational program provides quality information and training to students.

The last thing you want to do is complete a program that is not accredited and has paid all this money to have a useless degree.

When checking on online associate degree programs, you must check for each degree to see if it is indeed accredited by official accreditation granting agencies. Seven regional accreditors provide accreditation across the United States.

Each college or university is responsible for ensuring their programs meet accreditation standards.

While many online associate degree programs are accredited degree programs, there are some out there that are not. It is wise for online students to check if an online associate degree program is accredited and by which agency before you apply.

Financial Aid for an Associates Degree Online

Financial Aid for an Associates Degree Online

Your education can get expensive quickly.

There is a large amount of financial aid available to students that go unused each year because students don’t know it is available. But the truth is that you may be able to find financial aid that can help you to attain your Associates degree online.

You may find loans through the government as well as you can apply for grants and scholarships. Most universities have their own financial aid arrangements as well that you may be able to benefit from.

You can also check with your school or private organizations, which often have scholarships or grants available to online students as well.

Can You Earn an Associates Degree Online?

Yes, it is possible to earn an online associate degree in two years or even less. There is a wealth of programs online students can choose from as well.

These programs are usually highly flexible and allow you to continue with your regular life duties while you earn an associate degree.

How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associates Degree Online?

On average, an online Associate’s degree can cost around $3,770 annually for public in-district schools. There are, of course, a lot of factors that affect the price of a college education for online students, like board and room, estimated at $9,080 per academic year, according to the College Board.

Depending on your field of study and the area you live as well as the college you choose, your cost could be higher or lower to earn an associate degree.

What Is the Cheapest Online Associates Degree?

Cheapest Online Associates Degree

If you want to find the cheapest online Associate’s degree, community colleges often offer some of the most affordable online associate degree programs.

This way, you may qualify to pay the in-state tuition and should be able to benefit from several other options to help cut your online associate degree tuition costs even more.

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

On average, it takes two years to earn an associate degree, whether you do them in an online program or in person. You may find degrees that allow you to complete them in as little as 18 months.

If you will be attending school part-time, then that will mean your time to completion will increase.

What Is the Easiest Online Associates Degree to Get?

The easiest online Associates degrees tend to be those that do not have a lot of specializations. You may find programs in General Education, Anthropology, Entrepreneurship, and Corrections to be very easy.

The coursework in these online associate degree programs will likely be light and filled with a lot of general education courses.

Universities 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 degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University

Helping students turn creativity and drive into personal and professional development. The Academy of art University has been offering private school education since 1929.

With a variety of courses to help students to recognize the depth of their knowledge and how to use it in today’s economy, AAU has both virtual and traditional associate, undergraduate, and graduate degrees.

  • AA in Advertising
  • AA in Animation & Visual Effects
  • AA in Fashion
  • AA in Fine Art
  • AA in Game Development
  • AA in Graphic Design
  • AA in Illustration
  • AA in Industrial Design
  • AA in Interior Architecture & Design
  • AA in Jewelry & Metal Arts
  • AA in Landscape Architecture
  • AA in Motion Pictures & Television
  • AA in Music Production & Sound Design for Visual Media
  • AA in Photography
  • AA in Visual Development
  • AA in Web Design & New Media

Academy of Art University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Albany State University

Albany State University

Opening in 1903 as a historically black public university, Albany State University builds upon the ideas of social equality and civil liberties for all and incorporates them into each of the associate, undergraduate, and graduate course programs offered. Serving students from multiple areas of the country, ASU has flexible online associate degree programs available.

  • AA in English
  • AA in Foreign Language
  • AA in Liberal Arts
  • AAS in Legal Assistant/Paralegal
  • AS in Biological Science
  • AS in Business Administration
  • AS in Computer Information Systems
  • AS in Criminal Justice
  • AS in General Studies
  • AS in Health & Physical Education
  • AS in Health Information Technology
  • AS in Health Sciences
  • AS in Medical Laboratory Technology
  • AS in Political Science
  • AS in Psychology
  • AS in Sociology
  • AS in Teacher Education – Early Childhood
  • AS in Teacher Education – Middle Grades
  • AS in Teacher Education – Special Education
  • Associate’s in Dental Hygiene
  • Associate’s in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
  • Associate’s in Nursing
  • Associate’s in Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Associate’s in Physical Therapy Assistant
  • Associate’s in Radiologic Science
  • Associate’s in Respiratory Care

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

Arkansas Northeastern College

Arkansas Northeastern College

Arkansas Northeastern College is a two-year public education facility that started in 1975. Offing students an array of majors to choose from, students at ANC can enter associate degree programs in arts, science, or applied science.

ANC also has an abundance of vocational training courses to help students needing academic credentials or career advancement opportunities.

  • AAS in Criminal Justice
  • AAS in Steel Industry Technology
  • AS in Business
  • AS in Criminology
  • AS in Early Childhood Education – Elementary Education (K-6)
  • AS in Early Childhood Education – Mid-Level Education

Arkansas Northeastern College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Cameron University

Cameron University

Cameron University enrolls thousands of students annually who participate in the many associate, bachelor’s, and graduate degree programs offered. With small class sizes and the ability to participate in class or using a virtual setting, CU gives students individual attention needed.

Combining the latest technology with liberal arts curricula, graduates from CU are ready to take on any challenge.

  • AA in Strategic Communication
  • AAS in Criminal Justice
  • AAS in Information Technology
  • AS in Allied Health
  • AS in Interdisciplinary Studies

Cameron University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Carl Albert State College

Carl Albert State College

Carl Albert State College is a public college that caters to the individual needs of students. CASC has over 28 educational majors and minors to help students obtain And associates, undergraduate, or graduate degree. Each course taught at CASC surpasses state guidelines in rigor and quality.

Carl Albert State College has been serving in the industry since 1933.

  • AA in Business Administration
  • AA in Child Development
  • AA in General Studies
  • AA in Enterprise Development
  • AA in Social Science
  • AA in Sociology
  • AA in Psychology
  • AAS in Child Development
  • AAS in Computer Technology
  • AAS in Occupational Health & Safety
  • AS in Enterprise Development

Carl Albert State College is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

Founded in 1969, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College has over 75 associate degree programs and 40 vocational certifications. Giving flexibility to students looking to attend a public school, CSTCC allows students to Gain Course credit hours through Co-op and apprenticeship programs. Some students at CSTCC participate in class via online.

  • AAS in Computer Programming and Database Management – Computer Software Development
  • AAS in Health Information Management Technology
  • Associate’s in Accounting Technology
  • Associate’s in Administrative Assistant
  • Associate’s in Finance Technology
  • Associate’s in Hospitality Management
  • Associate’s in Pre-Business Administration

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Cochise College

Cochise College

Cochise College began in 1964 as a public college. Cochise College specializes in providing quality two-year degrees in a variety of course majors. Gaining a two-year degree at Cochise College not only allows students personal and career growth, but it also can set the groundwork towards a four-year college degree.

  • AA in Economics
  • AA in General Requirements
  • AA in Liberal Studies
  • AA in Social & Behavioral Sciences
  • AAS in Computer Programming
  • AAS in Intelligence Operations Studies

Cochise College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

College of Southern Nevada

College of Southern Nevada

Commenced in 1971, the College of Southern Nevada serves thousands of students over three campuses in an extensive distance learning platform. The College of Southern Nevada also has several learning centers, laboratories, and libraries for students to take advantage of.

This public school offers an array of associate and bachelor’s degree programs.

  • AA in Communications
  • AA in Criminal Justice
  • AA in Early Childhood Education
  • AA in Elementary Education
  • AA in English
  • AA in History
  • AA in Hospitality Management
  • AA in Psychology
  • AA in Sociology
  • AA in Special Education
  • AA in World Languages
  • AAS in Business Management
  • AAS in Casino Management
  • AAS in Computing and Information Technology – Software Programming
  • AAS in Computing and Information Technology – Software Web Development
  • AAS in Criminal Justice

CSN is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Flint Hills Technical College

Flint Hills Technical College

Flint Hills Technical College has been offering public education since 1963. Located in Kansas, Flint Hills Technical College Helps students obtain the educated needed for personal and career growth by granting associate and vocational certifications in a variety of majors. Some majors offered at FHTC include health care, Liberal arts, and science.

  • AAS in Business Technology
  • AAS in Computer Program Design and Development
  • AAS in Healthcare Administration/Management
  • AAS in Interactive Multimedia Design
  • AAS in Power Plant Technology

FHTC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Florida Southwestern State College

Florida Southwestern State College

Florida Southwestern State College is a world-renowned public education facility that serves students using virtual platforms and campus-based learning. FSS has more than 20 associate degrees and a number of bachelor’s degree program options.

Each degree offered at Florida Southwest State College is packed with 21st-century learning and high-quality instruction.

  • AA in General Education
  • AS in Accounting Technology
  • AS in Business Administration & Management
  • AS in Criminal Justice Technology
  • AS in Early Childhood Education

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

Florida Tech

Florida Tech

Florida institution of technology opened its doors in 1958 is a private academic institution That excels in many areas, including science health and technology. Students enrolled at Florida Institution of Technology connect with industry professionals across the globe to participate in research and discovery as they seek an undergraduate or graduate degree.

  • AA in Accounting
  • AA in Aviation Management
  • AA in Business Administration
  • AA in Criminal Justice
  • AA in Healthcare Management
  • AA in Liberal Arts
  • AA in Management
  • AA in Marketing
  • AA in Applied Psychology
  • AS in Computer Information Systems

Florida Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Highland Community College

Highland Community College

As the first public learning Institute in Kansas, Highland started in 1858 and serves over 3,000 students every year. With an array of associate degrees and vocational certification programs, Highland sets the bar high for academic and personal achievement.

Some programs offered at HCC include technology, arts, and science.

  • AAS in Accounting
  • AAS in Business Administration
  • AAS in Criminal Justice
  • AAS in Medical Coding
  • AAS in Personal Fitness Trainer

Highland Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indian River State College

Indian River State College

Indian River State College began in 1959 As a leader in public education. IRSC encourages students to take on Real-world problems to find a way to solve these issues. Offering associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and technical certifications in various program majors. Popular programs at IRSC include education, healthcare, and science.

  • AS in Business Administration
  • AS in Computer Information Technology
  • AS in Criminal Justice Technology
  • AS in Health Information Technology

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

Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University

1920 marks the beginning of Indiana Wesleyan University’s history of providing a private Christian based education. Students attending IWU have access to global learning through online classes, study abroad programs, in traditional learning at campuses around the world.

Giving students an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, IWU takes pride in the diversity of their educational practices.

  • AS in Accounting
  • AS in Business
  • AS in Christian Ministries
  • AS in Computer Information Technology
  • AS in Creative Digital Media
  • AS in Criminal Justice
  • AS in Early Childhood Education
  • AS in Human Services
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Business
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Communications
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Computer Information Technology
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Criminal Justice
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Fine Arts
  • AS in Integrative Studies – History
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Human Services
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Individualized
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Liberal Arts
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Mathematics
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Natural Science
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Religious Studies
  • AS in Integrative Studies – Social Services
  • AS in Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • AS in Public Service and Management

Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Liberty University

Liberty University

Commenced in 1931, Liberty University sits in Lynchburg, Virginia, and is a private school that blends Christian ideals into 21st-century learning. Offering a multitude of academic majors, Liberty University has undergraduate and graduate degree programs that can be accessed both online and on-campus.

Popular majors include general studies, education, and technology.

  • AA in Accounting
  • AA in Apologetics
  • AA in Business
  • AA in Creative Writing
  • AA in Early Childhood Education
  • AA in Education
  • AA in History
  • AA in Information Systems
  • AA in Military History
  • AA in Paralegal Studies
  • AA in Psychology
  • AA in Psychology – Christian Counseling
  • AA in Religion
  • AS in STEM Mathematics
  • Associate’s in Criminal Justice

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

Lone Star College

Lone Star College

Established in 1973, Lonestar college serves the public as a academic learning facility that is recognized globally for its ability to create future leaders in critical thinkers. Lone Star University awards associate degrees in a variety of academic majors.

Working with students for distance learning formats and traditional style classrooms, LC provides a student-centered approach to learning.

  • AA in Business
  • AA in Criminal Justice
  • AA in International Studies
  • AA in Speech Communication
  • AA in Teaching
  • AAS in Accounting
  • AAS in Business Administration – Business Management
  • AAS in Business Administration – Human Resources
  • AAS in Computer Programming

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

Navarro College

Navarro College

Recognized as a public academic facility in 1946, Navarro College has an assortment of disciplines and campuses to help students receive a well-rounded college experience. Navarro College serves thousands of individuals seeking associate degree programs, vocational certificates, or other non-credit programs.

Some of the most esteemed programs offered at NC include business, education, and science.

  • AA in Criminal Justice
  • AA in English
  • AA in General Studies
  • AA in Speech
  • AAS in Accounting
  • AAS in Business Administration
  • AAS in Business Information Technology
  • AAS in Child Development
  • AAS in Criminal Justice
  • AAS in Paralegal Studies
  • AAS in Paralegal Studies – Criminal Justice
  • AS in Biology
  • AS in Business
  • AS in Chemistry
  • AS in Environmental Science
  • AS in General Studies
  • AS in Pre-Engineering
  • AS in Psychology
  • AS in Sociology

Navarro College is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Northeast Community College

Northeast Community College

Northeast has been a popular option for students seeking high education since the 1920s. Throughout the years, Northeast has flourished and grown into one of the nation’s top public community colleges (College Factual).

Offering many program majors that help students earn an associate degree or career development, NCC costly strives to meet NB industry education standards.

  • AA in Accounting
  • AA in Administrative Professional
  • AA in Behavioral Science
  • AA in Business Administration
  • AA in Criminal Justice – Corrections
  • AA in Criminal Justice – Law Enforcement
  • AA in Education – Elementary
  • AA in General Studies
  • AA in Social Science
  • AAS in Administrative Professional
  • AAS in Business

Northeast Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Nyack College

Nyack College

Nyack College is a Christian-based private academic institution that brings modernization and technology to the head of education. Opening in 1882, Nyack helps students find their way to the top of their professional ambitions by giving them a means of earning an associate, undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree.

  • AA in Biblical Studies
  • AA in Liberal Arts & Science

Nyack College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Ohio Christian University

Ohio Christian University

Founded in 1947, Ohio Christian University takes pride in Delivering solid academic courses that are enriched by faith-based academia to help students develop a sense of self. This private educational institution equips students with what they need to acquire undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Research and technology are essential aspects of OCU.

  • AA in Business
  • AA in Christian Ministry
  • AA in Human Services
  • AA in Interdisciplinary Studies
  • AS in Information Technology

OCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Pensacola State College

Pensacola State College

Sitting in one of the most stunning areas in Florida, Pensacola State College opened in 1948 and provides public education via online program and in-class learning options. Students enrolled at PSC have access to over 100 academic majors that lead to an associate or bachelor’s degree.

Popular programs at PSU include pre-med, education, business, and technology.

  • AS in Accounting Technology
  • AS in Business Administration
  • AS in Criminal Justice Technology

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

Purdue University

Purdue University

As one of the most longstanding public schools, Purdue University opened in 1869 and has been providing students with a foundationally rich education since. Purdue University reaches students across the globe through distance learning and study abroad programs.

Encouraging students to positively change the world while completing undergraduate or graduate degrees is a crucial part of University.

  • AAS in Accounting
  • AAS in Business Administration
  • AAS in Criminal Justice and Criminology
  • AAS in Fire Science
  • AAS in Health Science
  • AAS in Information Technology
  • AAS in Legal Support and Services
  • AAS in Small Group Management
  • Associate’s in Health Science

Purdue University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Sauk Valley Community College

Sauk Valley Community College

With a variety of learning opportunities for students to be able to advance to the next level in their academic and personal lives, Sauk Valley has been committed to helping students grow and discover themselves since 1965.

SVCC has a variety of educational programs that lead to a two-year associate degree and several vocational and career readiness certifications.

  • AA in General Education
  • AAS in Accounting
  • AAS in Management
  • AAS in Marketing

Sauk Valley Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

State Fair Community College

State Fair Community College

With more than sixty-five academic majors, students have taken advantage of the high-quality education and low-cost tuition since 1966. With a variety of associate degrees in arts, science, and applied science offered, students enrolled at SFCC can major in a wide range of academic disciplines.

  • AAS in Business Management
  • AAS in Health Care Specialist – Nurse Aide
  • AAS in Health Care Specialist – Pharmacy Technician
  • AAS in Health Information Technology
  • AAS in Medical Assistant

State Fair Community College is accredited by HLC.

Tarrant County College

Tarrant County College

Tarrant County College has five vibrant campuses for students to take part in their journey to higher education. Opening in 1965, this massive public school educates more than 90,000 students worldwide each year.

Tarrant County College has associate degree programs offered through online or on-campus learning for students looking to gain a higher learning experience.

  • AAS in Accounting – Accounting Information Management
  • AAS in Business Administration – Accounting Assistant
  • AAS in Business Administration – Business
  • AAS in Business Administration – Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
  • AAS in Business Administration – Marketing
  • AAS in Human Resources Management
  • AAS in Office Technology

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

Tulsa Community College

Tulsa Community College

1970 was the year that Tulsa Community College began providing public education. Tulsa is a sizable, career-oriented learning facility with a significant number of associate degree programs in many academic fields.

Tulsa also offers career readiness and certificate programs for students needing career advancement opportunities.

  • AA in Elementary Education
  • AA in Liberal Arts
  • AA in History
  • AA in Psychology
  • AAS in Information Technology
  • AAS in Management
  • AS in Business Administration
  • AS in Computer Information Systems
  • AS in Marketing
  • AS in Mathematics

Tulsa Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of North Georgia

University of North Georgia

The University of Georgia is the largest postsecondary school in the state and has been offering adult public education since 2013. Students at the University of Georgia have access to a vast assortment of associate, undergraduate, and graduate degrees in an array of academic disciplines.

UG offers students the opportunity to attend online or through traditional learning opportunities.

  • AA in General Studies
  • AA in Political Science
  • AA in Social Work
  • AA in Sociology
  • AS in Healthcare Services and Informatics Administration
  • AS in Criminal Justice
  • AS in General Studies

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

University of Potomac

University of Potomac

The University of the Potomac is a private school that was started in 1991. UP has four campuses and online learning programs for busy adult students. The University of Potomac offers accelerated degree programs for students looking to earn an associate, undergraduate, or graduate degree.

Accelerated degrees can be completed quicker and at a lower cost.

  • AS in Accounting
  • AS in Business
  • AS in Early Childhood Development
  • AS in Information Technology
  • AS in International Business
  • AS in Network Security Management

The University of the Potomac is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Weber State University

Weber State University

Opening in 1933, Weber State University is a leader in Higher education. Working with students through traditional programs and virtual learning platforms, Weber State University yes pathways to an associate, undergraduate, or graduate degree.

Each program offered at this private educational facility incorporates faith-based learning and rigorous content.

  • AAS in Computer Science
  • AAS in Early Childhood
  • AAS in Health Information Technology
  • AS in General Studies

Weber State is regionally accredited through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Western Wyoming Community College

Western Wyoming Community College

Western Wyoming Community College gives a new look to public education. Opening in 1959, WWCC awards a multitude of associate degrees and technical certifications each year. WWCC partners with a local University to assist students looking to transfer credits to a four-year program.

Academic majors offered at www.ccinclude art, science, education, and health care.

  • AA in Anthropology
  • AA in Criminal Justice
  • AA in Elementary & Early Childhood Education
  • AA in English
  • AA in History
  • AA in Music
  • AA in Political Science
  • AA in Psychology
  • AA in Secondary Education – English
  • AA in Secondary Education – Mathematics
  • AA in Secondary Education – Physical Education
  • AA in Secondary Education – Social Studies
  • AA in Secondary Education -Spanish
  • AA in Social Science
  • AA in Social Work
  • AA in Sociology
  • AA in Spanish
  • AAS in BIS – App Software Specialist
  • AAS in BIS – Digital Media
  • AAS in BIS – Medical Administrative Assistant
  • AAS in Business Information Systems
  • AAS in Business Management
  • AS in Business Administration
  • AS in Elementary & Early Childhood Education

Western Wyoming Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of colleges and schools.

Is an Associates Degree Worth It?

business professionals having a meeting in an office

Yes, an Associates degree is worth it for many students. There are a lot of options that allow you to be flexible with your time and with your money. Many of these degrees are affordable, and you don’t have to stop your entire life to go to school full time.

With an Associates degree, you should have better employment prospects, and you may be able to enjoy a higher earning level. While experience can help propel you in a job, a combination of experience and a degree may get you to a supervisory position faster and with less associated costs.

Searching for the best associates degree online? With an online accredited degree, you complete your college education at your own pace, so you make it work for you.

Ready to start your journey?
Jordan Meeks
WRITTEN BY
Jordan is pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Policy and earned her Master of Business Administration in Strategic Management and her Bachelor's in Business Administration. Jordan's research focuses on adults returning to college and online degree programs.