Guide to Campus and Online A.A.S. Degrees

AAS degrees generally refer to associates of applied science, but in some cases this acronym refers to associates of arts and science. In both cases, the programs are considered to be undergraduate degrees that can be completed in two (2) years – sometimes less! Below, we have gathered some of the highest-rated online and campus AAS programs.

Kaplan University–Kaplan University is one of the best places for higher education and online degrees. Kaplan invests their interest into each student, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully fulfill job responsibilities. Each degree can quickly position students for careers in fast-growing fields.
Liberty University–Liberty University features an extensive, 100% online listing of associate's degree programs. These degrees serve as the base for further educational study and can springboard your career to new heights. Programs include Accounting, Business, Criminal Justice, Education, Interdisciplinary Studies, Management Information Systems, Paralegal Studies, and Religion, among others.
Post University–Post University offers five associates degrees, including Accounting, Early Childhood Education, Legal Studies, Management, and Marketing. The online format allows the student to work at his/her own schedule. Working professionals are able to earn the educational tools for future success without putting their life on hold.
Ashford University–Ashford University offers four associate degrees in Business, Organizational Management, Early Childhood Education, and Military Studies. Credits earned in these programs can be transferred toward a bachelor's degree at Ashford. Students rave that these programs provide a great stepping-stone to further education and career prospects.
Baker University–Baker University's Associates Program includes an Associate of Arts in Business. The 60 credit hour program features a curriculum that focuses on the fundamentals of business. The degree has been designed for individuals that have a few college credits or newcomers just starting in their educational journey.
California Coast University–For students wanting to jump-start their careers, California Coast University offers several degrees available through distance learning programs. These courses can be completed in less than two years and assignments can be completed and turned in any computer - no special software required. This is great for students with inconsistent schedules.
Everest University–As a leading provider of distance education, Everest University takes a practical approach by offering relevant curriculum and industry-driven exercises for students. Courses are available online and can be completed at your own pace from school, home, the library, or even on the go. EU strives to develop education that follows the today's standards and best practices in the field.
South University–South University, one of the nation's largest schools offering online programs, has associates online programs available for several of their popular degrees including paralegal studies, accounting, business administration, and information technology. These online programs use hands-on exercises and peer community feedback to help student gain the skills and knowledge needed to jump-start their careers.
Ivy Bridge College–Ivy Bridge College is a division of Tiffin University that focuses on associate's degrees, some of which can be completed in 16 months. IBC offers online courses as well for some of its most popular programs like criminal justice, accounting, IT, and business. After completion of the associate's program, IBC makes getting your bachelor's degree easy by providing smooth transfers to to
Tiffin U.
University of Phoenix–The associates degree programs at the University of Phoenix are all offered entirely online, providing you with a flexible, manageable method of earning your education. Programs are offered in a variety of fields, including arts, business, education, and sciences. Courses can be applied for credit towards a University of Phoenix bachelor's degree.
Rasmussen College–Rasmussen College has locations all over the nation, but you do not have to live by one in order to enroll in one of their accredited, online programs. Completing the program is fast and convenient, with students able to work and finish assignments from home, work, school, or even while they are traveling.
Keiser University–Keiser University, a respected leader in in higher education, offers online programs that empower students in two ways. First, students are able to quickly obtain degrees through programs that only last two years. Second, students are able to immediately apply their education to their careers because Keiser uses curriculum that reflects modern technological advances and current best practices. Students can choose from several programs including criminal justice, paralegal, accounting, and information technology.
Strayer University–The Associate in Arts programs at Strayer University are each 90 credit hours. These programs provide students with college-level training in such subjects as the arts, sciences, writing, and literature. The degree can usually be used to satisfy requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree. Strayer requires the student to possess a high school diploma.
Colorado Technical University–The associate's programs at Colorado Technical University are offered across the university's curriculum. Students are able to explore degrees in the following fields: Business & Management, Criminal Justice & Legal Studies, Engineering & Computer Science, Health Sciences, and Information Systems & Technology. These programs are a great stepping stone and will boost your career prospects.
Cleveland Institute of Electronics–CIE is focused on providing associate degree programs for students who are interested in taking on various roles in the tech industry. Because CIE has a specialized focused, students are able to use the latest technology and equipment, giving them an up-to-date experience through hands-on training and modern curriculum.
Virginia College–Virginia College knows that paying for college can be tough. However, VC takes several steps to make college affordable. Students receive financial aid for those who qualify, and tuition costs include the cost of text books - a huge expense normally left as surprises on college bills. VC also offers online programs like Business Administration, HR Management, and Paralegal Studies that can reduce many of the costs associated with campus life.
Herzing University–Herzing University offers several online associates degrees including Business Management, Legal Studies, Public Safety, and Information Technology Management and Administration. These programs can be completed in under two years (sometimes as little as eighteen months) and offer flexible hours for students with busy or inconsistent schedules. Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a North Central Association member.
Westwood College–Westwood College has quickly become one of the biggest providers in online education with students from all around the world. With several online Associates degree programs available, students can complete their education in under two years. This is great for jump-starting your career.
Harrison College–It is not common to see a respected institution at an affordable price, but Harrison College is backed with years of experience in helping students reach their career goals. Students will be able to complete online courses at a pace that is comfortable to them and best fits their schedule.
Carrington College California–CCC offers several online, accredited associates degrees for students who are interested in beginning a career. These programs can be completed in an environment of your choosing and offer greater flexibility when compared to traditional campus courses.
McKinley College–Whether you have a busy schedule or you prefer face-to-face time with professions, McKinley College has accredited, online associates degrees that can fit your situation. Some degrees can be completed in as little as just over a year and a half, but with online courses available, classes can be worked on at a timeline that fits your life style.
US Career Institute–US Career Institute, a leading educator both online and and campus-based, is an inexpensive, practical choice for students who are looking to take their lives in new directions. Online classes are available year-round, so it is never to late to begin the enrollment process.

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What types of AAS degrees and programs exist and what are they called?

The acronym AAS can stand for different degrees. Ultimately an AAS degree is a two year degree that explores an area in-depth without completing four years of school. For some, this allows them to make a living at a good job while pursuing a bachelor’s degree as opposed to working an entry level position. Two common types of degrees that use the abbreviation AAS are:

  • AAS – Associates of Applied Sciences
  • AAS – Associates of Arts and Sciences

Are there any AAS online degree rankings?

AAS degree programs are not ranked by an official source. Any ranking system you may run across online are arbitrary and do not reflect the quality of education you will receive as mandated by any higher education organization. Before beginning an AAS program, you should be certain your school is accredited by a national or regional accreditation organization. This ensures the degree you receive from the school is legit and will not be questions by an employer when it’s time to enter the work force for your field.

There are many AAS degrees offered in a myriad of subjects from criminal justice to the medical field. Some are more difficult than others, as those preparing students to work in the health industry will require significant hours spent doing lab work and shadowing existing employees in the field. Any lab or internships required outside of immediate course work should be outlined by your learning institution when you inquire about a program. Some AAS degrees will prepare students for a bachelor’s degree, while others are intended to be the sole preparation before obtaining a specific job position.

Transferring AAS school credits

The great thing about AAS degrees is most serve as the foundation for obtaining a four year bachelor’s degree. Should you decide to go for your bachelor’s in the future, you will already have several credits that count towards that degree. Some AAS degrees are general and those credits can be transferred to nearly any type of bachelor’s program.

Others are groomed for a specific field such as the healthcare industry. In this case, the majority of the AAS credits would transfer, but if you were to want to study a completely different field (i.e. moving from an AAS to be a dental assistant to a bachelor’s in early childhood development), only a portion of the AAS credits would be accepted as credit towards the new area of study. Schools accredited by the same organization would be more likely to accept past credits obtained during your AAS schooling.

Prior to starting any AAS degree program, consult your school’s academic advisor to find out which credits would transfer to a potential degree. Since most students stay studying the same or similar fields, it is likely the bulk of your credits will transfer to bachelor’s program that will increase your career options and earning power.

What sort of career can someone with an AAS degree have?

AAS – Associates of Applied Sciences

  • For this degree, common jobs include dental hygienists, physical therapy assistant or medical assistant. In some cases, additional courses and exams must be taken before obtaining these jobs in specialized medical areas.

AAS – Associates of Arts and Sciences

  • AAS degrees that have arts as part of the background should explore these areas that are in demand. Graphic designers can have high earning power and often work for themselves. Not all accountants must have a CPA to work in finances and this may be an area to look into if you are good with numbers and enjoy working with people. Teacher’s assistants for all grade levels do not require a four year degree.

What are the average salaries of a person with an AAS degree?

The average salary of an AAS degree holder depends on the specific type of degree they hold. For example:

AAS – Associates of Applied Sciences

  • Dental hygienists – Dental hygienists earn about $30 per hour. This can increase or decrease depending on the size of the practice they work for and also the cost of living. A dental hygienist in a large city like Houston will almost always earn more than a dental hygienist practicing in Little Rock.
  • Physical therapy assistant – The average earning rate for physical therapy assistants is $23 per hour. Again, this pay depends on the size of the practice and the city in which they live. Physical therapists are most often employed by private doctors who pay more than clinics or universities.
  • Medical assistant – A medical assistant earns about $12.50 per hour. The term medical assistant is very broad and can range from handling paperwork to assisting with lab work to prepping patients. Because the duties of a medical assistant vary greatly, so does the pay.

AAS – Associates of Arts and Sciences

  • Graphic artists – Graphic artists and designers earn an average of $38,000 per year. Depending on the size of company you work for, you can increase that number exponentially. Freelance graphic artists and designers can also run successful businesses with little overhead.
  • Accounting – With a two year degree with a focus in accounting, you can work in payroll, auditing or billing. These positions can pay anywhere from $14 to $25 an hour. Pay depends on experience and the responsibilities involved with the position.
  • Education – Those with a AAS can work as a teacher’s aide, an area that’s high in demand. Teacher’s aides or para-professionals earn about $10 per hour. This pay can increase if the aide is bilingual, allowing them to work with bilingual or ESL teachers, areas that are also in demand.

How expensive is an AAS degree?

Through a community college or online degree program, most associates degrees total about $8000. This includes all books and tuition, but does not include lab fees that one may encounter if seeking an AAS in the medical field. Most programs have a payment plan system that allows students to pay for courses as they go, so do not expect to plunk down exactly $8,000 when walking in to register for classes.

Speak to a counselor or someone in the registrar’s office prior to signing up for courses to learn about payment plans, AAS scholarships or grants, or any financial assistance that can be provided by the learning institution.

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