Earning you associate of applied science (or AAS) degree allows you to start working in your field a quickly as possible. While you won’t qualify for the top positions, you can go on to get your bachelor’s degree (or an even more advanced degree), and in the meantime you can get experience working in your field. Going to a top school in your field can help you earn as much as possible, even with just an AAS. While specific top schools vary by field, let’s take a look at some of the best general colleges to consider attending if you want to earn an AAS.

Atlanta Technical College

Most AAS students go to community colleges or other two-year schools. The top community college as rated by Washington Monthly is Atlanta Technical College in Georgia. This school offers a wide variety of associate’s degree programs in areas like health and public service, and the credits can be easily to bachelor’s degree programs at four-year colleges through the Technological College System of Georgia program.

Herkimer County Community College

Herkimer Country Community College, which offers a number of associate’s degree programs, is a great community college to consider due to its low costs. Tuition at this school, which is located in New York, is among the lower in the country – New York residents pay less than $7,000, and even out-of-state residents pay much less in tuition here than at comparable schools.

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix is a great school to consider because you can take classes online. In fact, most of their associate’s degree programs can be earned 100% online, giving you complete flexibility in your schedule, as well as saving you money. The University of Phoenix is one of the largest and oldest online schools, with new associate’s degree programs being added every day.

Other Great AAS Schools

The above three schools are not, by far, the only ones you should consider. In fact, it typically makes the most sense to check out schools local to your area, along with online schools, rather than moving across the country for a two-year degree. You can also search for schools according to your desired major.

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.

AAS – Criminal Justice AAS – Business Admin AAS – Web Development AAS – Health Info Tech AAS – Network Admin View more »	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.
AA – Accounting AA – Business AA – Criminal Justice View more »	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.
AS – Accounting AA – Legal Studies AA – Marketing View more »	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.
AA – Business	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.
AA – Accounting AA – Business AAS – Computer Programming View more »	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.
AS – Paralegal Studies AS – Accounting AS – Business Admin AS – IT View More »	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.
Associate's Degrees	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.
AA – Accounting AA – IT/Networking AA – Criminal Justice View More »	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.
AAS – Info Systems Mgmt AAS – Database Admin AAS – Banking AAS – Business Mgmt AAS – Paralegal View More »	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.
AA – Criminal Justice AA – Paralegal AA – Accounting AA – IT View more »	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.
AA – Accounting AA – Economics AA – Criminal Justice View more »	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.
AA – Accounting AA – Business Admin AA – Health Admin View more »	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.
AAS – Software Engineering	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.
AS – Business Admin AS – Office Mgmt AS – HR Mgmt AS - Paralegal Studies View More >>	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.
AS – Business Mgmt AS – Legal Studies AS – Public Safety AAS – IT Admin View More »	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.
AAS – Graphic Design & Multimedia AAS – Paralegal AAS – Info Tech View More »	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.
AAS – Accounting AAS – Admin Professional AAS – Business Finance AAS – Business Mgmt AAS – Medical Reimbursement Tech View More »	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.
AAS – Criminal Justice AAS – Health Care Admin AAS – Health Info Tech View More »	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.
AAS – Health Info Tech AAS – Accounting AAS – Business Mgmt AAS – E-Commerce AAS – Fashion Merchandising View More »	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.
AAS – Accounting AAS – Business Mgmt AAS – Marketing AAS – Human Resources AAS – Health Info Tech View More »	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.