If You Have a Bachelor’s, Do You Have an Associate’s?
Most people would say a person with a bachelor’s degree also has an associate’s degree. After all, an associate’s degree is a prerequisite for a bachelor’s degree. However, the answer is not as straightforward as it seems.
In the United States, an associate’s degree is typically a two-year degree that students can earn at a community college. A bachelor’s degree is a four-year degree that students can earn at a university or college. The association between the two degrees is a bit confusing. Do you automatically have one if you attain the other? Do you still get an associate’s if you finish only the first two years of a bachelor’s program?
The Answer: It Depends on a Few Factors
Whether or not you have an associate’s degree if you have a bachelor’s degree depends on a few factors.
1. The school you attended
Not all schools award associate’s degree as part of a bachelor’s degree program. Some schools only award bachelor’s degrees, while others award both associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. If your school does not offer associate’s degrees, you will not have one, even if you have a bachelor’s degree.
2. The program you completed
Even if your school awards associate’s degrees, you may not have earned one if you did not complete the associate’s degree program. Some students start a bachelor’s degree program but do not finish it. If you did not complete the associate’s degree program, you will not have an associate’s degree, even if you have a bachelor’s degree.
3. Your transcript
The best way to determine if you have an associate’s degree is to look at your transcript. Your transcript will show all of the degrees you have earned. If you see an associate’s degree on your transcript, then you have one. If you do not see an associate’s degree on your transcript, then you do not have one.
Associate’s Degree Worth It?
If you are considering getting an associate’s degree, you may wonder if it is worth it. The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances.
Benefits of an Associate’s Degree
- An associate’s degree can help you get a job in a field that requires specific knowledge or skills.
- An associate’s degree can help you get promoted in your current job.
- An associate’s degree can help you prepare for a bachelor’s degree program.
Drawbacks of an Associate’s Degree
- An associate’s degree can be expensive.
- An associate’s degree can take two years to complete.
- An associate’s degree may not be necessary for some jobs.
Making the Decision
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get an associate’s degree is a personal one. You should consider your individual circumstances and goals before making a decision.
Tips for Getting an Associate’s Degree
If you have decided that you want to get an associate’s degree, here are a few tips to help you get started.
Step 1: Research your options.
There are many different associate’s degree programs available. You need to research your options to find a program that fits your needs and interests.
Step 2: Apply to a program.
Once you have found a program, you need to apply. The application process will vary depending on the school you are applying to.
Step 3: Complete the program.
Once you have been accepted into a program, you need to complete the program. This will involve attending classes, completing assignments, and taking exams.
Step 4: Get a job.
Once you have completed your program, you can start looking for a job. Your associate’s degree will qualify you for a variety of jobs.
FAQ
Q: How long does it take to get an associate’s degree?
A: It typically takes two years to get an associate’s degree.
Q: How much does it cost to get an associate’s degree?
A: The cost of an associate’s degree varies depending on the school you attend and the program you choose.
Q: What are the benefits of getting an associate’s degree?
A: An associate’s degree can help you get a job, get promoted in your current job, or prepare for a bachelor’s degree program.
Conclusion
Whether or not you have an associate’s degree if you have a bachelor’s degree depends on a few factors. If you are considering getting an associate’s degree, you should carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.
If you are interested in learning more about associate’s degrees, I encourage you to do some research online or talk to a counselor at your local community college.
