Written by Coursera • Updated on May 4, 2022 Show
Often called a “two-year degree,” an associate degree could take more or less time depending on your school, your goals, and your pace. An associate degree is often referred to as a “two-year degree,” because it typically takes about two years to earn one. You'll find associate degree options at a variety of post-secondary institutions, including vocational colleges, community colleges, and traditional colleges and universities. With an associate degree, you can enter the workforce after graduation, or you can put it toward earning your bachelor's degree. If you're able to transfer your college credits, an associate degree can usually fulfill the first two years of requirements for a four-year bachelor's degree. To determine if an associate degree is right for you, learn more about the potential time investment and benefits. Typical timeline for an associate degreeThe biggest factor determining how long it takes to get an associate degree is whether you choose to attend school full- or part-time. The timeline may also vary from program to program and from school to school. Full-time associate degree timelineAs a full-time student, you can expect to earn your associate degree faster than if you were a part-time student. The average amount of time it takes is around two years. However, it's possible to get an associate degree in 12 to 18 months if your school offers an accelerated schedule. Advantages of full-time schoolingThe biggest advantage of going to school full-time is the potential to finish your degree faster. If you take 15 credit hours per semester, sometimes known as a full course load, you can complete your requirements in four semesters. Other advantages of full-time schooling include:
Part-time associate degree timelineIf you have family obligations or work, you might opt to pursue an associate degree as a part-time student. Studying part-time, it may take you anywhere from 48 to 72 months to earn an associate degree. Advantages of part-time schoolingOne of the biggest advantages of a part-time schedule is greater flexibility. Because you're taking fewer classes every semester, you have more free time, which may be a good option if you're working or have family obligations. In addition to that flexibility, other advantages of going to school part-time include:
Other factors that affect the length of timeWhile different schools may have different requirements, most require 60 to 68 credits in order to graduate with an associate degree. Here are a few other factors that may lengthen the timeline:
Accelerating your associate degree programIf you’re motivated and have the time, you may be able to speed things up. Here are a few steps that might help you earn your associate degree faster:
Benefits of an associate degreeIf you’re unsure of the value of an associate degree, consider a study by Harvard Business School that suggests employers are more likely to see you as being job-ready if you have a degree [3]. In fact, the demand for associate degrees is steadily growing, according to data from Statista. An estimated 1.07 million American students will earn an associate degree in the 2029-2030 academic year, up from 1.04 million in the 2018-2019 academic year [4]. Here are some other reasons why students choose to pursue an associate degree:
Learn more: 10 High-Paying Jobs You Can Get with an Associate Degree Alternatives to an associate degreeEarning an associate degree isn’t the only path available to you. Many students choose to take a gap year to work, travel, or discover their passions. Others explore job-training opportunities that enable them to learn while gaining work experience. Other options include taking online courses or pursuing a certificate. Online coursesTaking online courses can help you sharpen individual skills or explore your interests in more depth. This option often gives you greater flexibility with your time while exposing you to a wide range of subjects. For example, you might learn about machine learning now, and then take an introductory course in psychology next. CertificatesHaving a certificate on your resume validates that you've completed courses in specific subjects. With these programs, you'll develop technical skills associated with whatever the subject matter may be. For example, earn a Google Project Management: Professional Certificate to built skills in organizational culture, change management, and project planning. You are Currently on slide 1 Related articles
Article Sources1. College Raptor. “Part Time and Full Time Student Hours: What's the Difference?, https://www.collegeraptor.com/getting-in/articles/college-applications/difference-between-part-time-and-full-time-student-hours/." Accessed December 29, 2021. 2. National Center for Education Statistics. “Graduation and Retention Rates: What Is the Part-Time Retention Rate in Postsecondary Institutions?, https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/TrendGenerator/app/answer/7/33." Accessed December 29, 2021. 3. Harvard Business School. “Dismissed by Degrees, https://www.hbs.edu/managing-the-future-of-work/Documents/dismissed-by-degrees.pdf." Accessed December 28, 2021. 4. Statista. “Number of Associate's Degree Recipients U.S. 2030, https://www.statista.com/statistics/238249/associate-degree-recipients-in-the-us/." Accessed December 28, 2021. 5. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Education Pays, https://www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm." Accessed December 29, 2021. Written by Coursera • Updated on May 4, 2022 This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals. How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree?A bachelor's degree typically takes four years to complete, but that time can vary – especially if you're earning an online bachelor's degree.
What is the quickest way to get a degree?How to Get a Bachelor's Degree Fast – A Step-by-Step Guide. Choose a college with alternative credit options.. Take accelerated classes online (6 week or 8 week). Get college credit for your experience.. Get up to 1 year of credit with CLEP exams.. |