Associate of Arts vs. Associate of Science vs. Associate of Applied Science: What’s the Difference?

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Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a working professional looking to enhance your skills, earning an associate degree can be a great way to kickstart your career or pursue further education.

Associate degree programs are 60 credits and typically take two years of full-time study to complete. With an associate degree, you can expect to complete general education coursework and gain introductory knowledge of your major.

Many students pursue an associate degree to enter the workforce quickly or to complete general education courses and other prerequisites before transferring to a four-year college or university.

We’ll explore the differences between an associate of arts, associate of science, and associate of applied science and help you decide which degree type aligns with your career goals and educational plans.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

There are three general types of associate degrees you can earn:

AA programs include general education and the liberal arts, whereas AS programs include general education courses but focus more on business and STEM subjects

In contrast, AAS programs often focus on technical skills and prepare you to take on specialized roles in the workforce, such as in nursing or web design.

The most popular subjects for associate degrees are often those that provide practical skills and lead to career opportunities upon graduation.

These include fields such as business administration, nursing, computer science, criminal justice, and early childhood education.

Each of these disciplines offers a variety of specialization options, allowing students to tailor their studies to their personal interests and career goals.

Before deciding to pursue an associate degree, there are several factors to consider.

The cost of an associate degree can vary significantly depending on the institution you choose. Community colleges generally offer the most affordable options compared to four-year universities.

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that for the 2021-22 academic year, students attending a public, in-state two-year college paid an average tuition cost of $3,564.

Be sure to factor in costs for textbooks, course materials, and any necessary equipment or software. Financial aid, scholarships, and work-study programs can help offset these costs.

While associate degree programs are generally more accessible than bachelor’s programs, there may still be prerequisites you need to meet.

These could include a high school diploma or equivalent, minimum GPA, and prerequisite courses. Some programs may also require placement tests in subjects like math and English.

In some fields, certifications or bootcamps can provide similar skills and knowledge to an associate degree in a shorter timeframe.

These can be a good option if you’re looking to enter the workforce quickly or if you want to upgrade your skills in a specific area. However, keep in mind that these don’t provide the general education that an associate degree does, and they may not be recognized by all employers or institutions.

Many associate degree programs offer flexible options to accommodate working students or those with other commitments. These might include part-time study options, evening or weekend classes, and online or hybrid formats. Consider your personal circumstances and learning preferences when evaluating these options.

It’s important to ensure that the institution you choose is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation ensures that the institution and its programs meet certain standards of quality and that other institutions and employers will recognize the credits you earn.

Accreditation can also impact your eligibility for financial aid and the transferability of your credits. Always ensure that any school or program you’re considering is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed April 22, 2024.