25 Easiest Associates Degrees Online [2024 Guide]

The easiest associates degree programs can be just as effective as other degrees in expanding your job options.

Whether you want access to more job opportunities or want to earn a degree as soon as possible, there are many easy associates degree programs available fully online. How easy an associate degree program seems to you may depend upon the type of degree you’re interested in, your preferred learning style, and the admissions and program requirements.

Identifying your strengths in learning and what subjects you may feel more comfortable with can help you determine what associate’s degree may seem easier to you.

Universities Offering Easiest Online Associates Degree Programs

The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format. In addition, the school either do not require SAT scores as part of the admission requirements or have less math or science required.

Academy of Art University

The Academy of Art University’s AA in Fashion Styling is available 100% online. The program requires the completion of 60 credit hours that may be completed across 4 semesters. Potential courses include Introduction to the Fashion Business, Styling, and Editorial Makeup and Hair Styling. Courses may be taken during the summer to speed up the time to completion.

Academy of Art University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

American InterContinental University

American InterContinental University’s Associate of Arts in Business Administration is designed to be adaptable so students can skip what they already know. Credits for past work or military experience may also be available. The program requires the completion of 90 credits and is offered online and at the Atlanta and Houston campuses.

American InterContinental University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Baker College

Baker College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice with classes available in online, online live, and on-campus formats. On-campus classes are offered at multiple locations. The program can typically be completed in 2 years.

Baker College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Bismarck State College

Bismarck State College offers three different Associate in Applied Science degrees. Options are Administrative Assistant – General, Administrative Assistant – Legal, and Administrative Assistant – Medical. Coursework may be completed online or on campus. Opportunities are available to participate in co-ops and internships.

Bismarck State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Cameron University

Cameron University’s AS in Interdisciplinary Studies allows students to create an individualized degree plan to match their educational goals and interests. An advisor works with each student to help them choose what to study. Some concentrations are available entirely online, but courses may be taken on campus.

Cameron University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University offers associate degrees both online and on campus. Possible majors include Information Technology, Management, Health Services Administration, Business Administration, Accounting, and Electronics Technology. Fast Track exams and the Intellipath learning tool provide the opportunity to skip material that is already known. Courses are designed to be flexible to better fit busy schedules.

Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Cornerstone University

Cornerstone University offers an AS in Human Services 100% online. Courses are 7 weeks long and designed to fit busy schedules. Up to 30 qualifying credits may be transferred toward the program’s 61 required credit hours. SAT and ACT scores are not required to apply.

Cornerstone University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Finger Lakes Community College

Finger Lakes Community College offers a flexible Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences with a General Studies track. The diverse curriculum allows the exploration of a variety of interests and provides preparation for a variety of bachelor’s degree programs.

FLCC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an Associate of Arts in Psychology that can typically be completed in 1.5 years. The program consists of fully online, 8 week courses. The curriculum emphasizes liberal arts rather than math and science. Potential courses include Psychology of Personality, Introduction to Research, and Developmental Psychology.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Northeast Community College

At Northeast Community College, an Associate of Applied Science or an Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education can be earned. The AAS is designed to prepare students to directly enter the workforce, while the AA aims to prepare students for transfer into a bachelor’s degree program. Both programs are available online, with some practicum courses required.

Northeast Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Ohio Christian University

An AA in Interdisciplinary Studies can be earned at Ohio Christian University. The program can be completed on campus or online, with the online courses using a flexible, 5 week format. Students can design their own plan of study that includes general education and 24 credit hours of electives.

Ohio Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University offers an online Associate in Science in Business Administration. The program is designed to provide career preparation and serve as a foundation for a bachelor’s degree program in business. Potential courses in the curriculum include Effective Speech, Introduction to Business Information Systems, and Rhetoric and Composition.

Penn State is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

South Florida State College

South Florida State College’s Associate in Arts degree is designed to easily transfer into other institutions in Florida. Class sizes average just 13 students and are capped at 24 students. Classes are available online and during the daytime and evening. SFSC has an open admissions policy and does not require SAT or ACT scores.

South Florida State College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online AS in Business Administration. The program provides around-the-clock access to its virtual classroom. There are six 8 week terms each year, with no set meeting times. SAT and ACT scores are not needed to apply.

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc.

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers an Associate in English that focuses on topics such as American literature, the Bible as literature, and creative writing. Class sizes are small to help provide the opportunity to receive one-on-one attention from faculty. Online students have access to campus resources such as career services, counseling, and the wellness center.

SAGU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Care and Education. The program can be attended full-time or part-time. There are four concentrations to choose from: Preschool, Infant and Toddler, Nature-Based Early Learning, and Administration. Applications are reviewed holistically, and SAT and ACT scores are not required.

The University of Cincinnati is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of New Hampshire

The University of New Hampshire offers an AS in Early Childhood Education that is designed to transfer smoothly into teacher-certification BS programs. The program is available fully online, with select courses also on campus. Courses are taught by instructors with real-world experience. Potential courses in the curriculum include Child Development, Visual Communication, and Language and Literacy Development.

The University of New Hampshire is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix offers an online program for an AA with a concentration in Business Fundamentals. With 5 week classes, the program is designed to fit busy lifestyles. The program’s Prior Learning Assessment provides the chance to earn credits for prior experiences and knowledge. The application does not require SAT or ACT scores or essays.

The University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of the Potomac

An Associate of Science in Business can be earned at the University of the Potomac. The program requires the completion of 60 credits, up to 42 of which may be transfer credits. Classes are available online and on campus. Potential courses in the curriculum include Computer and Office Applications, Foundations of Business, and Organizational Behavior.

The University of the Potomac is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Weber State University

An Associate of Science in Business can be earned at the University of the Potomac. The program requires the completion of 60 credits, up to 42 of which may be transfer credits. Classes are available online and on campus. Potential courses in the curriculum include Computer and Office Applications, Foundations of Business, and Organizational Behavior.

Weber State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Easiest Associates Degrees Online

All degree programs take a considerable amount of dedication, but some associate degrees are less difficult to obtain for some students. Associate’s degrees that are considered easier may offer more flexibility, fewer admissions requirements, or coursework that is easier for some students based on their interests and learning style.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

• Associates in Accounting
• Associates in Business Administration
• Associates in Computer Science
• Associates in Criminal Justice
• Associates in Cyber Security
• Associates in Data Analytics
• Associates in Early Childhood Education
• Associates in Entrepreneurship
• Associates in Finance
• Associates in Health Services
• Associates in Healthcare Administration
• Associates in Human Resources
• Associates in Information Technology
• Associates in Legal Studies
• Associates in Liberal Arts
• Associates in Management
• Associates in Marketing
• Associates in Medical Assisting
• Associates in Medical Coding
• Associates in Paralegal
• Associates in Photography
• Associates in Psychology
• Associates in Small Business Management
• Associates in Software Engineering
• Associates in Supply Chain & Logistics

You may want to explore your options to decide which program is right for you.

Associates Degree in Accounting

If you’re proficient in mathematics, an associate’s degree in accounting may come easy to you. This degree can help prepare you for various careers in accounting and finance, such as bookkeeper, accounting clerk, or payroll assistant.

Topics typically covered include financial and managerial accounting, taxation, principles of finance, and business law. General education courses that are essential to understanding accounting principles include applied statistics, microeconomics, and macroeconomics.

Associates Degree in Business Administration

A business administration associate’s degree can help prepare you for entry-level leadership positions in business, such as office manager, executive assistant, or store manager.

Major coursework can help you develop an understanding of business operations, business management strategies, marketing strategies, and strategic decision-making. You can learn how to communicate effectively, lead a team, and understand the implications of different decisions made in business based on data.

Associates Degree in Computer Science

An associates degree in computer science can introduce you to software development methodologies, programming languages, scripting, and data structures.

Computer science degrees are very technical, and a basic understanding of mathematical concepts can be helpful for grasping foundational topics explored in computer science. This degree can be applied to various entry-level positions in the computer science and information technology (IT) fields, such as computer support specialist or web developer.

Associates Degree in Criminal Justice

An associate degree in criminal justice can introduce you to all aspects of the criminal justice system, including policing in the US, the judicial system, the correctional system, and laws and regulations.

Some careers that may be attainable with an associates in criminal justice include police officer, fire inspector, correctional officer, or bailiff. Additional training or certification may be required for some criminal justice positions.

Associates Degree in Cyber Security

A cyber security associate’s degree examines security principles applicable to the digital world. You can learn about different programming languages, security software, and cyber defense strategies and procedures.

A cyber security degree can be useful for a variety of careers that focus on cyber defense of computer networks, systems, and data. Some examples of entry-level careers in cyber security include computer support specialist, cybersecurity technician, and web developer.

Associates Degree in Data Analytics

If you’re interested in collecting and analyzing data for businesses or other organizations, an associate degree in data analytics may be useful. You may use this degree to pursue a career as an entry-level data analyst or data technician.

Some of the major topics examined in a data analytics associate’s degree include data collection and analysis, structured database environments, and how data is used in different contexts.

Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education

Early childhood education associates degrees can help prepare you for a career as a teacher’s assistant, preschool teacher, or childcare worker.

Major coursework generally includes introductory courses in developmental psychology, classroom management, and early childhood learning approaches. Coursework specific to early childhood learning is also examined, which can include classroom activities, language arts for young children, and music and movement.

Associates Degree in Entrepreneurship

An associate’s degree in entrepreneurship can help you develop skills and knowledge essential to identifying venture opportunities and developing business plans as an entrepreneur.

Much of the coursework focuses on the foundational principles of business management, business plan preparation, and market research. You can learn how to recognize business opportunities and apply strategic decision-making skills to scale ventures.

Associates Degree in Finance

An associates degree in finance incorporates financial analysis and accounting principles to help prepare you for various careers in accounting and finance, such as bookkeeping, payroll, or billing.

You may learn how to analyze and interpret financial statements, make decisions based on financial information, and understand how supply and demand works. Other topics typically explored include banking, consumer demand, market economy, and corporate finance.

Associates Degree in Health Services

A health services associate degree can introduce you to healthcare information systems, healthcare terminology, and the operations of health and human services organizations.

The knowledge and skills you may acquire in this degree program can be useful for careers like medical transcriptionist, health information technologist, and medical office assistant. Some responsibilities professionals in health services may have include maintaining medical records and carrying out administrative duties for healthcare organizations.

Associates Degree in Healthcare Administration

An associates degree in healthcare administration is designed to teach you leadership skills to prepare you for a variety of roles in the healthcare industry.

Course topics typically offered in this program include introduction to healthcare management, health policy, medical terminology, and healthcare systems. Topics pertaining to patient privacy and office applications in healthcare can help prepare you for a career as a medical office assistant, patient services representative, or similar roles.

Associates Degree in Human Resources

Human resources is the department within a business or organization responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and other tasks related to employee relations.

An associate’s degree in human resources can help prepare you for entry-level human resources roles, such as human resources assistant, payroll clerk, or timekeeping clerk. Some courses typically offered in the program include organizational behavior, introduction to compensation and benefits, business principles, and employment law and labor relations.

Associates Degree in Information Technology

An associate’s degree in IT explores scripting, programming languages, computer systems, and project management.

You may have the opportunity to work with industry tools and technologies used to manage and protect computer systems, including software and applications. Jobs that may be attainable with an IT associate’s degree include web developer, digital designer, and computer network support specialist.

Associates Degree in Legal Studies

An associate degree in legal studies focuses on the application of legal research and writing methodologies to various contexts within the legal system.

Topics such as litigation, real estate law, civil and criminal law, and probate are explored. A legal studies associate degree can help prepare you for a career as a paralegal, legal assistant, or similar legal support occupations.

Associates Degree in Liberal Arts

A liberal arts degree combines subject matter relating to the arts and humanities into one degree program. You may enjoy this degree program if you’re interested in subjects like history, English, psychology, philosophy, or sociology.

Since liberal arts includes a wide variety of subjects, it’s very flexible in terms of career options. It can help prepare you for a career in education, writing, public relations, and more.

Associates Degree in Management

An associates degree in management generally focuses on the development of leadership skills and the application of management strategies.

Key topics introduced in the program include marketing strategies, team management, human relations in business, and project management. A management associate’s degree can be applied to nearly any industry. For instance, it can be useful for pursuing management careers in office settings, retail, or sales.

Associates Degree in Marketing

An associates degree in marketing examines the principles and practices of marketing, which include marketing research, pricing, product promotion, consumer behaviors, and marketing communications.

There are several sectors in marketing, including advertising, social media marketing, promotions, sales, digital marketing, and product development. Some entry-level marketing careers that this degree can be useful for include social media specialist, market research assistant, and event promoter.

Associates Degree in Medical Assisting

Medical assisting associates degrees can help prepare you for support positions in the healthcare industry. The skills and knowledge you learn in the program can be applied to jobs like medical assistant, physician’s office secretary, or administrative assistant in a medical office.

Some topics typically explored in the curriculum of this program include medical office applications, patient intake procedures, principles of pharmacology, medical terminology, and medical coding and billing.

Associates Degree in Medical Coding

An associate’s degree in medical coding can help prepare you for a career as a medical records specialist, medical registrar, medical coder, or similar roles.

Certifications are available for medical coders, but they’re usually not a requirement for entry. Major coursework typically offered in the program include introduction to coding, medical terminology, patient privacy, insurance claims and adjudication, and pharmacology.

Associates Degree in Paralegal

If you’re interested in assisting attorneys in the legal industry, an associate degree in paralegal can help prepare you for a paralegal career. It can also be useful for similar jobs, such as legal assistant, law clerk, and court reporter.

Paralegal associate’s programs study all aspects of legal procedures from the paralegal perspective. Some key topics typically studied include criminal law and procedure, civil practice, and legal research and writing.

Associates Degree in Photography

An associate’s degree in photography can be an easy degree option if you understand basic concepts of photography.

A photography degree isn’t just about taking pictures, though. It includes the study of lighting, business, and the history of photography. There are several types of photography, such as portrait, news, fine arts, and digital photography. The degree may help you stand out as a professional photographer, photo editor, or photo technician.

Associates Degree in Psychology

An associate’s degree in psychology explores the study of the human mind and behavior through various types of psychology. Major course topics typically offered at the associate’s level include introduction to psychology, abnormal psychology, human growth and development, and introduction to research.

While a doctoral degree is the minimum education requirement to become a psychologist, some entry-level psychology careers include psychiatric technician or aide, social services assistant, and family advocate.

Associates Degree in Small Business Management

An associate degree in small business management can introduce you to the functions of a small business and the basic fundamentals of business operations, such as marketing, finance, and human resources.

Entrepreneurial practices are studied to help you gain an understanding of how to grow a business and carry out daily responsibilities as a small business manager.

Associates Degree in Software Engineering

An associate’s degree in software engineering explores basic concepts of computer science and the design and development of software. You may be introduced to programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and operating systems.

A bachelor’s degree is generally required to be a software engineer, but entry-level software engineering jobs can include associate software engineer and web developer.

Associates Degree in Supply Chain & Logistics

A supply chain and logistics associate degree studies the basic elements of distribution, supply, and costs in different contexts. Some topics usually explored include transportation planning and management, purchasing policies, supply chain networks, and inventory.

Purchasing manager, buyer, and purchasing agent positions may be attainable with an associate’s degree, but a bachelor’s degree is usually preferred. This degree can be useful for purchasing assistants, inventory assistants, and similar support roles.

Common Types of Associate Degrees

The type of associate degree you choose can influence what kind of coursework you take and what it prepares you for upon graduation.

There are three main types of associate’s degrees typically offered by colleges and universities:

• Associate of Arts (AA). An AA integrates subject matter within the arts and humanities.
• Associate of Science (AS). An AS offers more coursework in STEM-related subjects that are designed to prepare you for a technical or scientific career or a Bachelor of Science degree program.
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS). An AAS is similar to an AS in that they both focus on STEM-related subjects, but an AAS is often more ideal if you wish to immediately enter the workforce upon graduation.

An Associate of Arts degree is considered multidisciplinary because it explores several subject areas related to the arts and humanities. This degree type may be a good option if you’re considering a career in the field of education, writing, fine arts, or public relations.

Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science degrees can both help prepare you for a technical or scientific profession, but an AS may be a strategic option if you intend on pursuing a higher degree down the road.

Careers & Salaries

Earning an associate’s degree can help you become a more competitive job candidate and may provide you with a wider range of job opportunities. It can also demonstrate to employers that you possess the qualifications necessary to take on certain responsibilities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are some careers usually attainable with an associate’s degree in specialized fields.

Most of these positions are recognized as entry-level jobs. With more experience in your desired field, you may be able to move into a higher job title, depending on the occupation and industry.

Licensure may be required for some jobs, such as dental hygienist and veterinary technologist, depending on the state you plan to work in. Salaries can vary due to a number of circumstances, like work experience, job type, employer, and geographic location.

Should I Get an Associate’s Degree?

There are many reasons why an associate’s degree can be a strategic option if you’re interested in pursuing higher education. Whether you should pursue an associate’s degree or not may depend upon your desired career.

There are many entry-level careers that only require a high school diploma or equivalent, while others require some postsecondary education or a degree. Earning an associate’s can potentially increase your job opportunities and salary.

“Do you need an associate’s degree to get a bachelor’s degree?” This question comes up a lot when people talk about different ways to go through school. While it’s not a requirement, an associate degree can be a valuable step on your way to a bachelors, giving you the basics you need and maybe even letting you skip some classes later on, so you can finish your bachelor degree faster.

Pursuing an associates degree can also cost less than pursuing a bachelor’s. If you don’t want to fully commit to a 4 year degree, an associate’s degree could be a beneficial option.

Accelerated Associates Degree Admissions Requirements

Some colleges and universities have more admissions requirements for associate’s degrees than others.

These are some general admissions requirements you may see when applying to different associate’s degree programs:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Any official transcripts from prior education
• Online application
• SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)

Along with an online application, many schools request official transcripts to review coursework you’ve completed in high school or at the postsecondary level. Not all colleges ask for SAT and ACT scores, but if they’re requested, they’re generally used to consider general education placement level or admissions eligibility.

Online Associate Degree Programs Accreditation

Colleges and universities can seek institutional or programmatic accreditation to assure students that they offer quality educational resources and facilities.

Schools don’t have to seek accreditation, but regionally accredited colleges and universities are evaluated by accrediting agencies and recognized as meeting national education standards. Accreditation is often taken into consideration by employers and college admissions offices. It can potentially affect financial aid eligibility, credit transferability, employment opportunities, and your ability to apply for certification or licensure.

You can access a list of regional accrediting organizations and accredited schools through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation’s website.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

If you qualify, financial aid opportunities may be available to you to help pay for your college expenses. Some different forms of financial aid you may apply for or receive include:

• State and federal financial aid. Government aid is offered by state and federal governments to students who demonstrate financial need. Governmental financial aid may come in the form of grants, loans, or work-study programs.
• Scholarships. These monetary awards are given to students who typically submit an application to be considered for the scholarship. This form of aid may be offered by schools, non-profits, or other public and private institutions.
• Work-study programs. This form of federal aid helps students find part-time work to earn money to help pay for college.

To apply for federal financial aid, you can submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through the US Department of Education.

What Can You Do with an Online Associates Degree?

There are many quick and easy associate degrees that can help you develop skills and knowledge to prepare you for various entry-level jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some occupational groups with several career options available at the associate’s level include computer and engineering, education, legal and office support, and healthcare support.

With an associate’s degree, you might qualify for technologist and technician positions in various industries, support positions in education or the legal industry, and other assistant positions across virtually any industry. The focus of your associate program may also determine what type of jobs you qualify for.

What Is the Easiest Associates Degree to Get?

Some of the easiest online associates degree programs based on flexibility of curriculum include:

• Associate of Arts (AA) in Liberal Arts
• Associate of Arts (AA) in Interdisciplinary Studies
• Associate of Science (AS) in General Business

Some programs like those listed above explore a wider range of subject areas than others, which may give you a more flexible educational experience. If you have a strong background in STEM-related subjects, the easiest associates degree online programs to you may be more technical or scientific in nature.

Can You Get an Associate’s Degree Online?

It is possible to earn an associate’s degree fully online. Some of the fastest associates degree programs may be offered online and allow you to earn an associate degree in 1 year. Online associates degrees may be available through either online postsecondary institutions or traditional, in-person institutions that offer online degree options.

An online associates degree may be a strategic option if you’re looking for a flexible coursework schedule and want to have the freedom to learn from anywhere. Online associate degrees may offer a more structured learning format through synchronous, or live instruction, courses. Asynchronous courses allow you to study class materials on your own time while still adhering to assignment deadlines.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree Online?

A minimum of 60 credit hours is usually required to complete an associate’s degree online. Some schools may offer different semester schedules that can influence how long it can take. It usually takes 2 years to complete an associate’s degree if you follow a traditional, 16 week semester and study full-time.

If you stay continuously enrolled year-round and follow an 8 week semester schedule, you may finish in less time. Part-time enrollment can add on more time. Some accelerated degree programs allow you to complete your associate degree in 6 months online.

What Are the Highest Paying Jobs with an Associate’s Degree?

Depending on the degree field, there are numerous easy 2 year degrees that pay well.

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some of the highest paying associate degree-level jobs:

• Air traffic controllers — $132,250
• Nuclear technicians — $100,420
• Radiation therapists — $89,530
• Nuclear medicine technologists — $85,300
• Dental hygienists — $81,400

Pay is often variable and can be influenced by a number of factors, such as where you live, the employer, job tasks, and work experience. Some jobs that are in high demand may pay better if there are not many job candidates available to fill those positions.

Is an Easy Associate Degree Worth It?

Yes, an easy associate degree is worth it for many students. Associate’s degrees offer a shorter, 2 year commitment and allow you to explore your academic and career interests before delving into more advanced subject matter. Although cost of attendance can depend on the program and school, associate’s degrees usually cost less than bachelor’s degree programs.

Earning an associate’s degree can also be beneficial in qualifying for more job opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some of the fastest growing positions over the next decade that typically require an associate’s include web developer (30% job growth), physical therapist assistant (26%), paralegals and legal assistants (14%), and preschool teachers (15%).

Getting the Easiest Associates Degree Online

Some associate’s degree programs may be deemed easier than others based on flexibility of curriculum, admissions requirements, credit transferability, and subject matter.

Every degree program still requires dedicated work and the ability to complete assignments and adhere to deadlines. There are many reasons students choose to pursue an associate’s degree rather than a four-year degree. Time, money, and career goals are a few factors that may influence your decision in choosing an online associate’s degree over other degree options.

If you’re interested in pursuing an associate’s degree, you can begin by exploring the various quick and easy associate degrees offered by accredited colleges and universities.