What Is the Easiest Associate Degree to Obtain?

An associate’s degree can often be a stepping stone to higher education, especially if you take your prerequisites at a community college and then transfer to a four-year degree. You may be wondering ‘what is the easiest associate degree to obtain’, but that often relies on a myriad of factors.

We’ll cover what associate degrees can offer and the pros of getting an associate degree first.

What Is the Easiest Associate Degree to Obtain?

While "easy" is subjective, some associate degrees offer faster completion times and more flexible online learning. Some don't demand advanced math skills, which can appeal to many online students. Choosing the right associate degree program often depends on your existing skills, interests, and personal learning style.

Factors Affecting "Ease"

Several factors contribute to how "easy" an associate degree might be.

Online associate degree programs provide flexibility and sometimes accelerated learning paths. Transfer credits can also speed up completion, as they’ll transfer to a four-year college. Often, you can take all of your prerequisites for cheaper and then transfer to the four-year.

Some online associate degree programs recognize prior learning, allowing you to potentially earn college credit through experience, certifications, or even military training.

A school’s accreditation ensures its courses meet academic standards and that credits are often transferable. Accreditation also matters for online students who are considering furthering their higher education.

Popular "Easy" Associate Degrees

Here are some popular associate degrees often considered less difficult due to their flexibility or ease of transfer:

1. Liberal Arts

A liberal arts associate degree involves exploring various subjects from art to communications to history. This interdisciplinary approach suits curious people. It offers a broader base than a purely vocational field.

2. Business Administration

A business administration degree provides foundational knowledge for diverse business roles.

Graduates with an associate degree in business administration may pursue recruiter positions with decent job growth potential. Graduates could also pursue entry-level positions that could lead to future administrative assistant duties or another similar field that doesn't necessarily need an advanced degree, such as an MBA.

3. General Studies

General studies often combine arts, social sciences, and natural sciences.

This flexible approach provides a broader education base. It can prepare students for entry-level business positions.

4. Psychology

A psychology associate degree explores human behavior. While advanced roles require further degrees, an associate degree can qualify graduates for roles such as psychiatric technician or substance abuse counselor. Human resources is another common field.

5. Criminal Justice

Those interested in the legal field may consider a criminal justice associate degree program.

It can be a starting point for those considering law school later on.

6. Early Childhood Education

Passionate about working with children? An Early Childhood Education degree can lead to jobs like preschool teacher, teacher assistant, and childcare provider.

7. Accounting

An accounting degree involves number work and keeping account balances.

Graduates often pursue roles as financial clerks or accounting managers. Many continue their education with an advanced business degree, perhaps even pursuing affordable associate degrees that help with tuition costs before getting their Master's degree.

8. Information Technology

An Information Technology associate degree focuses on computer networks, system analysis, and security software. Potential roles include computer support specialist, information security analyst, or IT specialist.

Considering Your Goals

While these associate degrees are often considered easier, the best choice depends on your goals. An associate degree can be sufficient for some technical jobs, or it can prepare you for bachelor's level studies, potentially lowering initial costs. Community colleges offer general education courses at a lower cost before transferring to more challenging universities.

So, what is the easiest associate degree to obtain? There's no single answer. If you need guidance, check out Clark College Consulting. We’re here to help prepare you for college.