Formal training is becoming more of a prerequisite for jobs, whether it be certification, an associate degree, or a bachelor's degree. If you're interested in a particular career field, you've probably wondered what type of education is necessary to get you there. Read on to learn more about the differences between bachelor's and associate's degrees.
Associate Degrees
Associate degrees typically take two years to obtain and are offered by universities, community colleges, or for-profit private institutions. Usually, they are very focused on your program of study. Associate degrees are popular options because they only take two years to earn, meaning that you can start working sooner, and because they are offered at community colleges, meaning that they usually cost much less than a bachelor's degree. Also, associate's degrees are available in a wide variety of specialties, and for some jobs, such as veterinary technician or paralegal, they are the most prominent means of attaining education.
Bachelor's Degrees
Bachelor's degrees typically take about four years to obtain and are offered by universities. They require both more general academic courses and more specialized courses than associate degrees. The fact that the education is both deeper and wider means that for many jobs, those with bachelor's degrees are preferred over those with associate degrees. This is particularly true in supervisory or research-heavy positions, or jobs like teaching, computer engineering, and financial analysis. Ultimately, the best way to know what kind of degree you need is to research the career in which you're interested.
Get Your Degree!
Find schools and get information on the program that’s right for you.
Powered by Campus Explorer