An associates degree is typically a four-year degree that is offered by junior colleges, community colleges, and some bachelor degree granting colleges within the United States. In general, an associates degree is equivalent to learning within the guidelines of the first two years of a four-year college. The associates degree is considered the lowest among the hierarchy of college degrees, but still has a large impact on students looking to advance in their careers, particularly those who are subject to entering a specific field. Canada and the United States most commonly offer associates degrees, but in 2000 Japan also introduced it, and Australia also adopted an associates program in 2004. Some common abbreviations for associates degrees include AS (Associate of Science), AA (Associate of Arts), and AAS (Associate of Applied Science).

With an AA degree, focus is mainly on humanities or studies within the guidelines of social sciences. This type of degree is typically given to students who have not yet chosen a major of study, and for those whose degree is in general studies. An AS degree is usually geared more towards students who most likely plan to move onto a four year university, and focuses on subjects such as mathematics, sciences, and technology. The AAS version of an associates is tailored more towards students who plan to enter the workforce immediately after earning their degree. Because of this, AAS provides more hands-on learning experiences, as well as some intern and externships to give students real experience they can use to succeed in their work life.

In most cases, an associates degree can be earned in two years if the student is attending classes full time. In most cases, the time it takes to earn an Associates degree can be longer, particularly if the student is also working at the time. Around the 1970s, more and more people began earning their associates degrees. By the beginning of the 1980s, the number had significantly increased to about 25%. Many people view associates degrees as vocational degrees, since the scope of learning is much more focused versus other degrees where students must be well rounded and spend a minimum of four years in study.

Because the associates is known as a vocational degree, most people who earn one enter into a specific field, most commonly business and commerce technology fields. Other commonly chosen fields for those with an associates degree include nursing and paramedic degrees, paralegal, mechanical, data processing, public service, computer related fields, and natural sciences. If you decide to get your associates and are considering transferring to a four-year college, talk to you advisor about which classes will transfer so you will not have to retake them. The associates degree program is an important part of the higher learning landscape.