Associate’s Degrees vs. Bachelor’s Degrees
Feeling the effects of a recession, more and more people aware of the benefits of having a solid educational background, especially in the face of the economic crisis of this magnitude. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70.1 percent of high school graduates were enrolled in colleges or universities in October 2009 .*
At the same time, not everyone has the resources to spend five to seven years in higher education. For those who want to fast track fruitful career without compromising on college education, Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees offer the perfect start. Here is some information about both types training :
Associate Degree ’s: This is the lowest rank in the hierarchy of post-secondary academic degrees. It is awarded to students who have completed two years study in a particular area. The rate is usually offered by private, community and technical colleges and some colleges and universities award Bachelor.
Average annual income: ** $ 33,838
best suited for: Associate’s degrees are best suited for entry-level jobs in a variety of fields such as nursing, respiratory therapy, graphic design, programming, medical specialties, and many other professions.
Pros & Cons: The biggest advantage of an Associate Degree is the relatively short time needed to complete it. This two-year college degree is eligible for a large number of individuals who are not white collar jobs would have been open to high school graduates. The other advantage of an Associate Degree is that it is cheaper than a four-year bachelor degree. Besides saving on tuition, students also save money on boarding, fuel, cars, books, etc. An Associate degree paves the way for future educational pursuits. Students have the option of applying their associate degree credits to a bachelor.
Associate’s degree but have certain disadvantages compared with bachelor degrees. First they put you at a disadvantage when competing for the same jobs as middle-. Second, your earning capacity is much lower than those who graduate with a bachelor. Finally, moving up the ladder to the supervisory or managerial positions can be difficult without a degree.
Bachelor’s Degree: This is a diploma from a post-secondary institution with undergraduate students a program that usually takes about four years.
Average annual income: ** $ 47,853
best suited for: Bachelor’s degrees are best suited for a career in accounting, computer software engineering, healthcare administration, management, and many other high profile white-collar jobs.
Pros & Cons: A Bachelor’s degree in general increase your job prospects, as some positions are only open to those that degree. Your earning potential is also the level of your education. Graduates with a Bachelor’s degree find it easier than those who hold an Associate Degree to get up the ranks and take roles with higher levels of responsibility in their respective fields. A bachelor degree provides a broad knowledge and expertise in your field of study, and you are likely to be treated as a serious professional if you have completed a four-year course as opposed to a one two years.
The main disadvantage of a four-year course is the cost, as a bachelor’s usually more expensive than an Associate’s. Since it also takes a longer time to complete, you end up spending much money on rent, car, fuel, books, etc.
Both courses have their advantages and disadvantages, and you have a decision based on their personal goals, expectations of education, and resources.
* Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook
** U.S. Census Bureau
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