What is an Associate of Science Degree Good For?

Introduction

An Associate of Science (AS) degree is a two-year post-secondary program that provides students with the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in a specific field of study. AS degrees are offered at many community colleges, vocational schools, and universities across the United States. The degree focuses on providing students with an education in the sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, and business fields.

An Associate of Science degree can be beneficial for those who are looking to further their education or improve their career prospects. With an AS degree, students have access to a variety of career options, from entry-level positions to more advanced roles. Additionally, students can use the degree to prepare for a bachelor’s degree program or even a graduate program.

Benefits of Earning an Associate of Science Degree

Earning an Associate of Science degree comes with a number of benefits that can help students reach their goals. Here are some of the most notable advantages of obtaining an AS degree:

Improved Job Prospects

One of the main benefits of an Associate of Science degree is improved job prospects. According to a report by the National Center for Education Statistics, individuals with an Associate of Science degree earned an average salary of $48,600 in 2018, compared to $38,400 for those without a degree. This means that individuals with an AS degree can expect to earn more than those without one.

Increased Earning Potential

In addition to improved job prospects, those who hold an Associate of Science degree can also expect to earn more money over the course of their careers. A 2017 survey by the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that workers with an Associate of Science degree earned an average of $61,000 per year, compared to $50,000 for those without a degree. This demonstrates that an Associate of Science degree provides individuals with the opportunity to earn a higher salary over the course of their career.

Flexibility of the Degree Program

Another advantage of an Associate of Science degree is the flexibility of the program. Many AS degree programs allow students to customize their curriculum to meet their individual needs and interests. This allows students to focus on the topics that are most relevant to their career goals and ensures that they are well-prepared for the job market.

Opportunities Offered by an Associate of Science Degree

In addition to the benefits listed above, an Associate of Science degree also provides students with the opportunity to further their education and pursue professional certifications. Here are some of the opportunities that an Associate of Science degree provides:

Transferring Credits to a Bachelor’s Degree Program

Many colleges and universities offer credits that can be transferred from an Associate of Science degree to a bachelor’s degree program. This allows students to complete their bachelor’s degree in a shorter amount of time and with less expense. Additionally, transferring credits from an Associate of Science degree to a bachelor’s degree program can make it easier for students to obtain a higher-level position in their chosen field.

Preparing for a Graduate Program

An Associate of Science degree can also be used to prepare for a graduate program. Students who complete an AS degree are often well-prepared for the rigors of a graduate program, as they have already developed the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed. Additionally, many graduate programs accept credits from an Associate of Science degree, making it easier for students to transition to a graduate program.

Pursuing Professional Certifications

Finally, an Associate of Science degree can provide students with the opportunity to pursue professional certifications. Many employers require certification in order to qualify for certain positions, and having an Associate of Science degree can make it easier for students to obtain these certifications. Additionally, professional certifications can increase an individual’s earning potential and open up new career opportunities.

Common Majors in Associate of Science Degrees

An Associate of Science degree can be pursued in a variety of fields, including health sciences, computer science, business administration, and engineering. Here are some of the most popular majors in Associate of Science degrees:

Health Sciences

The health sciences major focuses on providing students with an understanding of the human body and how it works. Students will learn about anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, medical terminology, and other topics related to health care. This major prepares students for a career in the health care field, such as a nurse, doctor, or medical technician.

Computer Science

Computer science is a rapidly growing field, and an Associate of Science degree in this subject can provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the industry. Students will learn about programming languages, software development, data structures, algorithms, and other topics related to computer science.

Business Administration

Business administration is a popular major for those looking to pursue a career in the business world. An Associate of Science degree in this subject provides students with an understanding of basic business principles, such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management. This major prepares students for a variety of business-related roles, such as marketing manager, financial analyst, and operations manager.

Engineering

Engineering is another popular major for those looking to pursue a career in the sciences. An Associate of Science degree in this subject provides students with an understanding of the principles of engineering, such as physics, mathematics, and computer programming. This major prepares students for a career in the engineering field, such as electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, and civil engineer.

Preparing for the Future with an Associate of Science Degree

An Associate of Science degree can provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a successful career. Here are some tips for preparing for the future with an Associate of Science degree:

Building Marketable Skills

It is important for students to build marketable skills while pursuing an Associate of Science degree. These skills can include problem solving, communication, teamwork, and leadership. By building these skills, students can demonstrate to employers that they are capable of succeeding in the workforce.

Networking with Professionals

Networking with professionals in the field can be an invaluable resource for those looking to advance their career. By connecting with professionals, students can gain insight into the industry and learn about potential job opportunities. Additionally, networking can provide students with valuable advice and mentorship that can help them succeed in their chosen field.

Participating in Internships

Internships can provide students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field. Many employers view internships as a way to evaluate potential employees, so participating in an internship can be a great way to demonstrate to employers that you are qualified for the job. Additionally, internships can provide students with the chance to network with professionals and build their portfolio.

Conclusion

An Associate of Science degree can be a great way for students to pursue a successful career. An AS degree provides students with improved job prospects, increased earning potential, and a variety of opportunities to further their education. Additionally, there are a number of majors available in Associate of Science degrees, such as health sciences, computer science, business administration, and engineering. Finally, students should take advantage of the opportunities provided by an Associate of Science degree by building marketable skills, networking with professionals, and participating in internships.