The Top Online Associate in Psychology Degree Programs
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An associate degree in psychology can be parlayed into many professions. The ability to understand the mind is essential in a variety of fields. Possible careers include teacher's aide, family advocate, correctional officer, home care aide, youth counselor, or social services assistant.
To earn an associate degree in psychology, students must complete a minimum of 60 credits. Usually this translates into two years of full-time coursework. Graduates often go on to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology.
If you're interested in helping others, an associate degree in psychology can be a stepping stone to a fulfilling career.
What Can I Expect From an Online Associate in Psychology Program?
An online associate degree in psychology typically requires a minimum of 60 credits. You can typically graduate this program in two years. Some programs may offer self-paced or part-time options.
These programs focus on general education and foundational courses in psychology. An associate degree in psychology typically does not require internships, practicums, or labs beyond standard coursework. Degree concentrations are uncommon for associate degrees in psychology.
You can choose between an associate in arts (AA), an associate in science (AS), or an associate in applied science (AAS) degree in psychology. The AA degree will have humanities and theoretical concepts as cornerstone content. The AS or AAS degrees will include more math and science coursework.
If you demonstrate integrity, collaboration, leadership, and information management, you may do especially well in online psychology programs.
Popular Online Associates's in Psychology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Associate in Psychology Program?
General Psychology
General psychology gives students an overview of the scientific study of human behavior. Topics include sensations, perceptions, abnormal behavior, and research methods. After the course, students should be able to describe major concepts of psychology, including human development, social behavior, and learning.
Childhood Psychology
Childhood psychology covers the development and behavior of infants, children, and adolescents. Topics include environmental influences, gender roles, language, genetics, and personality development. By the end of the course, students should understand theories, research, and cultural perceptions related to childhood development.
Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal psychology examines various psychological disorders. Topics include the clinical, theoretical, and experimental perspectives on psychopathology. The legal and ethical issues associated with treatment are also discussed.
Developmental Psychology
Developmental psychology covers the study of human growth and development throughout the lifespan. Discussions cover social, psychosocial, physiological, and cognitive development from prenatal stages to death. Course objectives include understanding major theories and research in human growth and development.
Social Psychology
Social psychology explores how group dynamics affect individuals' emotional well-being, behavior and cognitive functions. Topics include implicit bias, prejudice, social behavior, and diversity. Social psychology also explores cultural influences, attitude formation, and decision-making.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Associate in Psychology Program?
Admissions requirements for an online associate in psychology degree program vary by school and specific program. Most programs require an application and proof of high school graduation or a GED certificate. Some programs also ask for high school transcripts, a minimum GPA, standardized test scores, or work experience. Here are the most common requirements:
- Application essay: Programs that require one or more essays look for applicants who reflect individuality, reflection, and deep thinking.
- Standardized test scores: Some programs require SAT or ACT scores, while others set minimum exam score requirements.
- Letters of recommendation: Programs may ask applicants for recommendation letters from teachers, supervisors, or colleagues to confirm students' college readiness.
- Work experience: Many programs value relevant work experience and may even offer credit for experiences related to courses offered.
What Can I Do With an Online Associate in Psychology Degree?
Career Outlook
An online associate in psychology degree can prepare you for a bachelor's program in psychology. This type of degree can also be a stepping stone to careers in many fields, from psychiatry and medicine to education, research, and social services.
Many of these fields are growing: Jobs for social and human service assistants are projected to grow 9% from 2022-2032, according to the BLS. This is much faster than the average projected job growth in that period of 3%. The BLS also projects that jobs for psychiatric technicians and aides will likely grow 9%.
Career Paths
Psychiatric Technician or Aide
Psychiatric technicians or aides work in healthcare settings including psychiatric hospitals and mental health facilities. Responsibilities focus on caring for individuals with disabilities or mental illness. This career requires a lot of time on your feet. Job opportunities are projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030.
Median Annual Salary: $33,140
Assessment Specialist
Assessment specialists work in educational or business settings to create learning or employment assessment materials. Tests include student placement exams and employee performance or suitability assessments. Some assessment specialist positions may require an internship or previous experience.
Average Annual Salary: $59,770 (as of February 2022)
Correctional Officer
Correctional officers oversee those awaiting trial or who are sentenced to prison. Correctional officers can choose to work with juvenile offenders or may also serve the general public.
An associate degree in psychology can open more senior positions. The number of correctional officer jobs is projected to decline from 2020 to 2030.
Median Annual Salary: $47,440
Teacher's Assistant
Teacher's assistants work with teachers to give students additional instruction and personal attention. If you're considering a career in teaching, becoming a teacher's assistant can provide valuable experience. Teacher's assistant positions are available at all levels of education. The BLS projects an average 9% job growth from 2020-2030.
Median Annual Salary: $28,900
Social and Human Service Assistant
Social and human service assistants can work in psychology, rehabilitation, or social work. Activities include helping clients find services and benefits or assisting social workers. These jobs are available with nonprofits, companies, and government agencies. The BLS projects a 17% growth rate from 2020-2030, which is much faster than average.
Median Annual Salary: $35,960
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Continuing Education
Many graduates with an associate degree in psychology go on to earn a bachelor's degree in psychology. Those who earn an associate degree in psychology can also choose to pursue degrees and certifications in counseling.
Many degree programs allow you to transfer credit from an associate to a bachelor's program. With a credit transfer, it is possible to finish a bachelor's degree in psychology in an additional two years or less. This is also a cost-saving strategy as two-year schools often have lower tuition rates than four-year colleges and universities.
At the bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. level, you may specialize in various areas of psychology such as clinical, educational, counseling, organizational, or forensic psychology.
In addition to bachelor's and master's degrees, associate degree holders can earn psychology-specific certifications. These include mental health or psychological first aid.
How Do I Choose an Online Associate in Psychology Program?
Cost
Cost is a major deciding factor for many students. Online programs often have lower total costs than in-person programs. Of course, you'll want to factor in fees, books, transportation, technology, and other expenses to estimate the true program cost. In-state public institutions and community colleges are usually the least expensive choice.
Program Format
Depending on your school, you may be able to choose between full-time or part-time programs and synchronous and asynchronous program formats. Accelerated programs make it possible to complete an associate degree in under two years. An asynchronous online degree program offers flexibility to earn a degree while working full time.
Location
Even in an online program, some students prefer a nearby college. Many schools also offer hybrid learning. In this case, choosing a location with an easy commute becomes more important. If the program has an on-campus requirement, you'll need to account for travel time and costs. These requirements vary by program.
Accreditation
Program accreditation is important. Look for institutional and programmatic accreditation. Students can search for their program to ensure the associate degree in psychology is widely accepted. An accredited associate degree will allow you to transfer your credits to a four-year bachelor's program. It is also more valued in the workforce and can open higher-paid positions.
Student Support
Strong student services support every part of student life. Consider whether a program offers mentorships, career services, tutoring, internships, alumni connections, or other student services.
Online students should have access to much of the same resources and materials as on-campus students. This is especially valuable for online students who do not have in-person networking opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Associate in Psychology Programs
Is an associate degree in psychology worth it?
Yes, an associate degree in psychology is worth it. With an associate degree in psychology you are qualified to enter the workforce. Credits from an associate degree can often be transferred to complete a bachelor's degree in psychology or counseling. Earning an associate degree before transferring to a bachelor's program can often save you considerable tuition expenses.
If you want to earn an associate degree in psychology without traveling, you can pursue an online associate degree. Online degrees are rapidly gaining credibility and acceptance by both employers and students.
How fast can I get an associate in psychology degree online?
It usually takes full-time students about two years to complete an associate psychology degree online. The time to completion can be accelerated in some cases with additional coursework.
Online associate in psychology degree programs require all the same core courses and curriculum as on-campus degree programs. Some students prefer to enroll in an online associate degree program while working full-time.
Online programs may provide an asynchronous option that allows students to adapt classes to their schedule. With a full course load, they should still be able to complete the degree in two years.
Is an online associate degree in psychology credible?
Yes, an online associate degree in psychology is credible. Be sure to choose an accredited institution to enroll in the online degree program.
An accredited associate degree ensures that the online program adheres to national educational standards. Credits earned for an associate degree in psychology from an accredited institution are often transferable to a bachelor's program.
Some online associate in psychology programs are also accredited by the American Psychological Association. This accreditation is usually held by graduate-level programs, but can indicate the quality of program coursework.
How much money can I make with an associate in psychology?
How much money you can make with an associate in psychology degree will depend on the career path you choose. Work experience can also lead to increased salary over time. With online and part-time degree programs, you can even pursue further education while working, increasing earning potential.
Salaries can range from $28,900 as a teacher's assistant to $48,430 in family, child, or school social services, according to May 2020 median salary data from the BLS. The average salary for assessment specialists was $59,770, according to Payscale data from February 2020.
Is an associate degree in psychology in demand?
Many jobs that you might pursue with an associate degree in psychology are currently in demand.
According to the BLS, teacher's aides, research assistants, assessment specialists, and psychiatric technicians are projected to experience above-average job growth between 2020-2030. Social and human service assistant jobs are projected to increase 17% in that same time frame, which is much higher than average.
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