What is an associate’s degree?

Key takeaways

• An associate’s degree is a two-year college degree that helps you get a job or prepare for further education.
• There are four main types (AA, AS, AAS, and AGS) depending on your goals.
• An associate’s degree is typically more affordable than a four-year university.
• In 2026, new rules like Workforce Pell could make it even easier to pay for technical training.

An associate’s degree is an undergraduate academic program usually completed in two years (60 credits). It is a foundational credential that allows students to enter the workforce quickly in technical or vocational fields or to transfer into a four-year bachelor’s degree program at a significantly lower total cost.

How long does it take to get an associate’s degree?

If you attend full-time and average 15 credits per semester, most students graduate with an associate’s degree in 2 years. These programs typically require 60 credits, or around 20 total classes. This usually means taking five classes each semester. If you work or have a busy family life, you can go part-time, but it might take three or four years to finish. Many colleges now offer online classes so you can study whenever and wherever you have time.

AA vs. AS vs. AAS vs. AGS: What are the different types of associate’s degrees?

• Associate of Arts (AA): Focuses on social sciences, business, literature, arts, and general education subjects. This is a strong option if you plan to transfer to a four-year college to earn your bachelor’s.
• Associate of Science (AS): Emphasizes science and math-related fields, such as Criminal Justice or Information Technology. This is also a common transfer pathway.
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Built for students heading directly into the workforce. These programs cover technical and vocational skills for specific careers. Transfer options are more limited, though some exceptions exist.
• Associate of General Studies (AGS): A flexible option that allows students to sample different subjects. Good for those still exploring their academic interests.

Average cost of an associate’s degree (2025-2026)

One of the biggest advantages of an associate’s degree is the price. Here’s how it compares to a bachelor’s program:

Sources: NCES, BLS

Can you transfer an associate’s degree to a four-year university?

Yes, you can transfer an associate’s degree to a four-year university, and it’s called the 2+2 model. You spend two years at a community college and then two years at a university. Most states have articulation agreements. These are legal contracts that guarantee your community college credits will count towards your bachelor’s degree at the university, helping the transition go more smoothly. This could save you thousands of dollars while still giving you a degree from a top school on your diploma.

High-paying associate degree jobs you can get quickly

You don’t need four years of college to make a good living. Here are some jobs you can get with a two-year degree:

• Dental Hygienist
  • Median salary: $94,000
  • Projected job growth: 7%
• Physical Therapy Assistant
  • Median salary: $65,000
  • Projected job growth: 22%
• Electrician
  • Median salary: $62,000
  • Projected job growth: 9.5%
• HVAC Technician
  • Median salary: $59,000
  • Projected job growth: 8.1%

A report by the Community College Research Center shows that nearly 75% of workforce associate degree programs lead to a living wage (enough money to live comfortably) within just two years of finishing school.

Tips for paying for your associate’s degree

Even though associate’s degrees are much less expensive than bachelor’s programs, they can still be out of reach financially for many. Here are some tips to help you cover the cost:

• Complete the FAFSA. You need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to be considered for federal student loans, Pell grants, and institutional aid.
• Apply for state grants. Many states have college grants for 2-year students. In fact, a majority even have discounted or free community college programs for their residents. You may have to complete a separate state financial aid application to qualify.
• Apply for scholarships. There are thousands of scholarships that help students pay for their higher education. Many are available to both associate’s and bachelor’s students.
• Take out private loans. Private student loans can help you bridge the gap between your financial aid offers and the total cost of attendance (COA). However, private loans tend to have much higher interest rates and fewer repayment options than federal loans. You should always take out federal student loans first.

What’s new in 2026: Workforce Pell

Starting in July 2026, the government is working to make Workforce Pell grants available. This means if you are studying for a technical job (like welding or nursing), you might get extra money from the government that you don’t have to pay back. This could make school much more affordable for many students.

Frequently asked questions

Is an associate’s degree worth it in 2026?

Yes! It is a smart move because you get a degree with much less debt. Since many jobs now care more about your skills than how many years you spent in school, an associate’s degree is a fast way to start a great career.

What are the highest-paying two-year degrees?

Jobs in healthcare and technology pay the most. Working as a dental hygienist, a nurse, or a cybersecurity expert is one of the best ways to earn a high salary with only two years of college.

Can I get an associate’s degree online?

Yes. Almost every community college will have online options. This is perfect if you need to work a job while you go to school.

Start your search today

An associate’s degree may be the right first step. Whether you want to launch your career quickly, save money before transferring, or explore your options before committing to a four-year program, it’s a great option.

Ready to find community colleges and transfer schools that match your goals? Use College Raptor’s College Match tool to get started for FREE. And check out our 2026 Best Colleges Rankings to explore four-year schools worth transferring to.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​