Associate Degree vs. Bachelor’s Degree: Which One is Better?

    Friday, January 15, 2021



    If you have been wondering what the difference is between an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree, here is the answer to all your doubts. Check out the differences between these two and find out when it is best to study each of them.

    The decision to go for an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, a master’s, or a doctorate is really difficult. Have you ever thought about which is the best option for you? Have you thought about the differences and similarities between some of these types of degrees? In this article, we will try to explain the differences between an associate degree and a bachelor's degree and the best situation in which you can choose one or the other. 

    Main Differences between Associate Degrees and Bachelor’s Degrees  

    One of the main differences between an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree is the program length. On the one hand, Associate degree programs last 2 years if you complete them full-time. On the other hand, bachelor’s degrees last at least 4 years completing it full-time. Part-time programs are possible since most universities offer flexible schedules, online classes, and the possibility of working while studying. 

    Another key difference is that associate degrees focus on gaining an understanding of a certain topic to get an education in a short period of time. Associate degree programs serve as the beginning of what could be a great professional career. In opposition, bachelor’s degrees focus on a deep understanding of practical and theoretical skills that will allow the person to acquire a certain degree of knowledge that will give them the possibility to become a professional. 

    The third difference between associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees is that the cost of an associate degree is half the price of a bachelor's degree. College tuition varies from one college to another, but generally, the cost of an associate degree is lower than that of a bachelor’s degree. This is so, because of the time it takes to complete one and the other. 

    When Should I Enroll for an Associate Degree? 

    • If the job you want is a vocational or trade career that does not require a bachelor’s degree, then go for an associate degree! With a two-year associate degree, you can complete your education quickly and work your way up right away! Later on, when you are a mid-career professional and perhaps looking to ease into management roles, a bachelor’s degree may come in handy. But until you are ready and have the desire to do so, an associate degree will be just fine.
    • If you want to gain relevant work experience as soon as possible, an associate degree will help you do so because you will spend less time in school before being qualified to work.
    • If you are not sure what career path is right for you, an associate degree that is highly transferable can help you get your foot in higher education while giving you time to reflect and choose your later career path.
    • If your current lifestyle does not have room for a full-time degree program, an associate degree may be the way to go! With work to go to, bills to pay, and family to take care of, a full-time or part-time bachelor’s degree may be too much to put on your plate. An associate degree will fit in well with your busy schedule and allow you to advance your education. 

    When Should I Enroll for a Bachelor’s Degree? 

    • If you have the time and financial resources to spend, then you can consider a bachelor’s degree as a long-term investment that will be worth the effort. As bachelor’s degrees take longer and, in general, dive deeper into their respective topics, you will be able to open many doors to different careers later on. 
    • If you will be alright about not earning your full salary potential during these next four years, then you can also consider a bachelor’s degree as a sound option. There are many young, prospective college students who are right out of high school and do not have to worry too much about the same issues that a full-time professional with a family has to take care of. You may not have the same privilege of being able to spend years in a row without meeting your full earning potential. If, however, you find that you are in a place of financial stability or whatever reason, then a bachelor’s degree could be right for you. 
    • If you are looking to maximize your long-term earning potential and have the desire to qualify for upper-level positions in competitive job markets, a bachelor’s degree can help you achieve those goals. Some fields require bachelor’s degrees as a minimum. It will be up to you to do some research and determine if a bachelor’s degree is necessary in order to move forward with your preferred career.

    All in all, the decision on which degree to pursue is up to you, but you have to take into consideration that all of them have their advantages and disadvantages. Nevertheless, some are more accepted than others. 

    If you want to find more information about associate degrees, you should read: 

    What are the 4 Types of Degrees and Their Characteristics

    What is an Associate’s Degree? Is it Worth It?

    What can I do with an Online Associate degree in Accounting?


    Navigate through Start University to find more information about the different degrees offered.