An Associate's Degree is a college degree that, typically, involves two years of study. It is most often awarded by junior colleges, community colleges, and business colleges, though some larger universities and colleges also offer these degree programs. Generally speaking, an Associate's Degree is the same as the first two years of study for a typical four-year Bachelor's Degree.
• Associate of Arts Degree - Usually given to people who intend to go on to pursue a four-year Bachelor's Degree with a major in the humanities or social sciences.
• Associate of Science Degree - Study focuses in the areas of mathematics, natural sciences, or technology, depending on what the individual pursuing the degree plan to do with it.
• Associate of Fine Arts Degree - Given to students who study areas associated with Music, Theater, and Art.
• Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree - Allows students interested in becoming teachers to test their interest early in their academic careers and, by later transfering credits earned to a four-year school, decrease the amount of time required to earn a Bachelor's Degree.
• Associate in Applied Science Degree - This degree program tends to relax some of the general education requirements so the student can focus more on their area of interest. Usually obtained by students who plan to enter the work force once the degree is obtained.
• Associate in Industrial Technology Degree - While this degree can be used by those who plan to transfer to a four-year institution later on, it is most often used by students planning to work after graduation. This degree focuses on fields such as Electronics, Engineering, Radio and Television Broadcasting, and Computers.
• Associate in Business Administration Degree - Can either be used to enter the work force after graduation or to continue on to a four-year college or university, typically in pursuit of a business major.
• Associate in Occupational Studies Degree - Generally, this degree has no liberal arts requirements. It is intended primarily for those students who want to enter the work force once they graduate.
