{"id":6079,"date":"2021-08-19T17:28:30","date_gmt":"2021-08-19T21:28:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.goodwin.edu\/enews\/?p=6079"},"modified":"2024-12-16T17:02:17","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T22:02:17","slug":"is-an-associate-degree-worth-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.goodwin.edu\/enews\/is-an-associate-degree-worth-it\/","title":{"rendered":"Is an Associate Degree Worth It? 3 Questions to Consider"},"content":{"rendered":"

Is an associate degree worth it in today\u2019s competitive workforce? How can you choose between an associate or bachelor\u2019s degree? Find out!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Getting a college education can be a key step in launching a successful career. Whether you are just carving out your career path, or are looking to change careers completely, pursuing a college degree will provide many benefits. With a degree in hand, you can qualify for more jobs, increase your earning potential, and stand out to prospective employers \u2013 all while gaining knowledge and experience in your desired field. The question is, which type of college degree makes the most sense for you?<\/p>\n

Many people looking to advance their education will come to a crossroads, asking, \u201cShould I pursue an associate degree or bachelor\u2019s degree?\u201d You may be wondering, \u201cIs an associate degree even worth it in today\u2019s competitive workforce, or will I need a bachelor\u2019s degree to succeed?\u201d<\/p>\n

It is not uncommon to think that, in order to be successful, one must have a bachelor\u2019s degree. Somewhere along the way, it became ingrained in us that a four-year college education is the ticket to a great career. However, as we revealed in a recent article<\/a>, there are many incredible jobs available \u2013 and in-demand \u2013 for those with an associate degree or even certificate in hand.<\/p>\n

The Associate Degree vs. Bachelor\u2019s Degree Debate<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Of course, bachelor\u2019s degree programs do have many benefits. Some jobs, for example, require a minimum of a bachelor\u2019s degree for entry. And, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS<\/a>), bachelor\u2019s degree holders make more, on average<\/em>, than those with an associate degree or less. This makes sense, as these graduates have invested more in their educational programs. However, there are many high-paying jobs that do not require a bachelor\u2019s degree<\/u>, and the pay for these roles is increasing. According to new surveys, average salaries for skilled trades jobs are expected to increase 2.8% in 2022<\/a>.<\/p>\n

However, associate degree programs also have great benefits. Associate degree programs prepare you to enter the workforce in two years (or less!), offering a fast-track, alternative option to the traditional degree program. Additionally, many respected and high-paying careers only require an associate degree. So, is an associate degree worth it, with these factors considered?<\/p>\n

Well, that depends on your goals and needs.<\/strong><\/p>\n

There is much to consider when deciding on a college degree and, more specifically, whether an associate degree is worth it to you. Below, we break down the top questions to ask yourself when weighing an associate or bachelor\u2019s degree program.<\/p>\n

Is an Associate Degree Worth It? Ask Yourself:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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  1. What are my career goals?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    When weighing your degree options, your first and foremost consideration should be your professional goals. What do you want to do with your career? In which field do you want to work? Certain fields require a certain level of education\u2014but not all require a bachelor\u2019s degree. Below are some examples of careers where an associate degree is the standard for getting started:<\/p>\n