2026 AA vs AS vs AAS Degree: Explaining the Difference

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What is the difference between an AA, AS, and AAS degree?

While an AA, AS, and AAS degree leads to an associate-level credential, the focus and career outcomes can differ significantly. The best choice depends on whether you plan to continue your education toward a bachelor’s degree or enter the workforce immediately after graduation.

Below is a breakdown of each degree type to help you make an informed decision.

Associate of Arts (AA) Degree

An AA degree centers on the humanities, social sciences, and liberal arts. It’s ideal for students who enjoy subjects like literature, history, psychology, and communications. This degree provides a broad educational foundation and is especially suitable for those planning to transfer into a four-year university. Common transfer majors include education, psychology, sociology, and communications.

For example, many of the shortest online professional writing programs are structured as AA degrees because they emphasize creativity, critical thinking, and strong communication skills, abilities that are valuable across many career fields.

Associate of Science (AS) Degree

An AS degree places a stronger emphasis on math, science, and technical coursework. It is designed for students who plan to continue into bachelor’s programs in engineering, computer science, biology, or other STEM-related fields. The AS pathway often includes advanced courses in calculus, chemistry, or physics, providing a solid academic foundation for more specialized scientific or technical degrees.

Students pursuing an AS degree can also benefit from transfer agreements with universities, allowing them to enter a four-year program as juniors and save both time and tuition.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree

An AAS degree focuses on hands-on, career-ready training that prepares students to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. It is the most practical of the three and is often chosen by students pursuing careers in healthcare, information technology, criminal justice, or skilled trades.

Unlike the AA or AS, which are designed to transfer to a four-year institution, the AAS is meant to provide specialized skills employers value right away. Courses tend to include internships, lab work, and applied projects that simulate real-world job environments. Graduates of AAS programs often find employment as technicians, medical assistants, IT specialists, or paralegals soon after completing their degree.

If you're eyeing a tech niche, you will be qualified for many cloud computing degree jobs.  

What are some popular associate degree programs in 2026?

Choosing the right associate degree is a strategic step toward launching or advancing your career. Whether your goal is to enter the workforce quickly or transfer to a bachelor’s program, the type of degree you choose can shape your professional path and earning potential.

Below are some of the most popular associate degrees available today, each offering unique benefits, skill sets, and career opportunities across high-demand fields.

Business Administration

This associate degree provides a solid foundation in management principles, economics, and marketing. Students learn how organizations operate, how to make strategic decisions, and how to manage resources effectively. Many graduates find opportunities as administrative assistants, sales coordinators, or small business managers, gaining practical experience that serves as a stepping stone to higher-level positions.

Healthcare Management

An associate degree in healthcare management combines health sciences with leadership and organizational studies to prepare students for administrative roles in medical settings. Coursework covers healthcare systems, patient services, medical billing, and regulatory compliance. Graduates often pursue roles as medical office managers, health services coordinators, or billing specialists. 

Accounting

An associate degree in accounting teaches students the fundamentals of financial reporting, bookkeeping, and auditing. Core subjects include taxation, business law, and computerized accounting systems. Graduates are qualified for positions such as accounting clerks, payroll specialists, or tax preparers, and many go on to complete a bachelor’s degree to become certified public accountants or financial analysts.

Computer Science

Students of an associate degree in computer science focus on programming, algorithms, and data structures, equipping students with technical skills for today’s digital economy. Coursework typically includes computer systems, software development, and database management. Graduates can pursue careers as computer support specialists, junior programmers, or IT technicians, or transfer to a four-year program in computer science or information technology. 

Liberal Arts

An associate degree in liberal arts provides a well-rounded education in the humanities, social sciences, and communication. Students develop critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving skills that apply to virtually any profession. This degree is particularly flexible, making it ideal for students who are undecided about their major or plan to transfer to a bachelor’s program later on. 

For students focused on career-ready credentials, programs such as associate degree vs certificate in dental assisting also show how associate paths can open faster employment opportunities compared to shorter technical certificates.

How long does it take to finish an AA vs. AS vs. AAS degree full-time?

The time to complete an AA degree or an AS degree is basically two years. These programs can be finished in four semesters, assuming students follow a full-time schedule of around 15 credits per semester.

Many students opt for summer courses or take a full-time course load during regular semesters to stay on track. Those who are transferring their credits from another institution may face variations in completion time.

For full-time AAS degree students, expect to spend two years earning the degree. Internships, clinical hours, or lab work can extend the time slightly. Some students may also take longer due to the technical nature of the coursework and the need for certification or licensure exams.

Students comparing degree paths often face a similar decision in nursing—choosing between programs like difference between LPN RN and BSN, where completion time and professional scope differ depending on the level of education pursued.

Can I complete an AA, AS, or AAS degree faster with accelerated or online programs?

Yes. Accelerated programs can condense the timeline through shorter courses and more intensive terms. These programs allow students to get more credits within a year, sometimes reducing the time to as little as 18 months for full-time students. 

Many colleges and universities also offer online AA, AS, and AAS degrees. These programs carry out asynchronous learning, which may speed up the pace for those who can devote extra time to their studies.

Online programs still adhere to the same credit requirements. The timeline can be flexible, but the total duration is largely dependent on the number of courses a student takes per term and the program's guidelines.

Online learners weighing costs and speed may also find parallels in the is it better to get a certificate or a degree in UX design debate, where accelerated formats and shorter credentials can fast-track entry into competitive industries.

Can you transfer an AA, AS, or AAS degree to a 4-year university for a bachelor’s degree?

Yes, but the ease and extent of the transfer rely on the degree type and the university’s policies. AA degree and AS degree students can easily transfer to a 4-year university, especially if they attend a community college that has transfer agreements with universities. 

The transferability from an AAS to bachelor's degree can be more limited. It delivers specific vocational training, but it often includes a substantial amount of technical coursework that may not align with a bachelor's degree.

Some universities may accept credits from an AAS degree. In many cases, though, AAS graduates may find that only a portion of their credits transfer, or they may need to fulfill additional coursework to be accepted into a bachelor's program. 

A bachelor's degree remains the most common credential among Americans.

What jobs can I get with an AA, AS, or AAS degree?

The type of jobs you can get with an AA, AS, or AAS depends on whether you want to work immediately or use the degree to transfer to a bachelor’s. Here’s a breakdown:

Jobs with an AA Degree

• Main purpose: Transfer to a 4-year degree, but some jobs are available with just the AA degree.
• Job options (direct-to-work)
  • Administrative assistant
  • Office manager
  • Customer service representative
  • Sales associate/retail supervisor
  • Police officer/corrections officer (many departments accept AA + academy training)
  • Teacher’s aide/paraeducator
  • Social services assistant
• Note: Many higher-paying AA fields (education, psychology, social work, etc.) require a bachelor’s, so AA is often a stepping stone.

Jobs with an AS Degree

• Main purpose: Transfer to a BS program in STEM or healthcare, but some immediate jobs exist.
• Job options (direct-to-work)
  • Laboratory technician (biology/chemistry labs)
  • Computer support specialist/IT help desk
  • Engineering technician
  • Environmental science technician
  • Pharmacy technician (with certification)
  • Medical records/health information technician
• Note: Many AS degree jobs are entry-level in STEM/healthcare. Higher-paying roles (engineer, nurse, scientist) need a bachelor’s or professional license.

Jobs with an AAS Degree

• Main purpose: Prepare you for immediate work in a skilled trade, healthcare, or technical profession.
• Job options (career-ready)
  • Healthcare: Registered nurse (if AAS in Nursing + licensure), dental hygienist, radiologic technologist, respiratory therapist, physical therapist assistant, surgical technologist
  • Trades & Technical: HVAC technician, electrician, automotive technician, welder, construction manager assistant
  • IT/Business: Computer network specialist, cybersecurity analyst (entry-level), paralegal, accounting technician
  • Creative/Service fields: Culinary arts chef, graphic designer, early childhood educator, hospitality manager
• Note: AAS degree programs are the most job-focused, leading to jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s at all.

For those thinking of becoming an HVAC technician, consider these cheapest HVAC certification schools.  

Which degree leads to which job path?

• AA - generalist/humanities/social science jobs, or transfer to a BA.
• AS - entry-level STEM/healthcare/IT jobs, or transfer to a BS.
• AAS - skilled trade, healthcare, or technical jobs where the associate is the main credential.

The jobs mentioned in the chart below require only a certificate, an associate's degree, and some college, but no degree.

How does salary vary between AA, AS, and AAS degree holders?

Individuals with an AA degree or AS degree may see lower starting salaries compared to those with an AAS degree, as these degrees prioritize general education. Graduates can earn $30,000 to $50,000 annually. Students who will use their education as a pathway to further study can eventually qualify for higher-paying roles.

AAS degree earners are eligible for more robust job prospects and competitive wages. For example, medical assistants with an AAS degree can earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, while information technology specialists can earn upwards of $50,000.

Skilled trade positions, such as electricians or HVAC technicians, can also command salaries in the range of $40,000 to $60,000.

If you're interested in welding, check out this welder salary guide.

What are the admission requirements for AA, AS, and AAS programs?

Admission requirements for AA, AS, and AAS degrees follow similar standards. Most community colleges and technical schools have open-admission policies, making these programs accessible to many students. 

AA Degree

• Admission: Usually open (HS diploma/GED).
• Academic expectation: Placement testing for English and math is expected.
• Extra requirements: AA degree programs rarely ask for program-specific prerequisites; some majors (music, art) may require auditions/portfolios.

AS Degree

• Admission: Usually open, same baseline as an AA.
• Academic expectation: Applicants may need higher placement scores or prerequisite high-school coursework (e.g., algebra, biology) for some tracks.
• Extra requirements: Some AS degree majors (engineering prep, lab sciences) may require a higher GPA or a placement threshold to enroll in certain courses.

AAS Degree

Admission to an AAS degree is selective even if the college has open admission. Requirements are:

• Minimum GPA (e.g., 2.0 or higher) or minimum grades in prerequisite courses
• Program application or ticketing (separate from college application)
• Prerequisite coursework (e.g., basic algebra, English, or specific trade prerequisites)
• Placement tests and/or competency assessments
• Background check and/or drug screening
• Immunizations and TB tests for clinical programs
• Physical ability requirements for some trades
• Drug-screen/CPR/First Aid/professional licensing

Admission criteria vary by program type, similar to specialized healthcare training routes like difference between a licensed and certified pharmacy technician, where entry standards differ depending on credential level and state regulations.

How to decide between AA vs. AS vs. AAS degrees based on career goals?

AA, AS, and AAS degrees serve very different purposes, and the “best” choice depends on your career and education goals. Here’s a clear way to decide:

AA Degree

Best for you if:

• You want to transfer to a 4-year college/university to complete a BA.
• Your career goal requires a bachelor’s or higher degree.
• You want the broadest transfer option. AA degree programs are typically accepted for general education credit at most 4-year schools.

Career path examples:

• Teacher (BA → teaching certificate)
• Social worker (BA/BSW → MSW)
• Lawyer (BA/BS → law school)
• Manager/business professional (BA in Business)

AS Degree

Best for you if:

• You want to transfer to a 4-year university for a BS in a more math/science-centered major.
• You are comfortable with more math and science coursework.
• You have a career goal in a STEM field or healthcare path that requires further study.

Career path examples:

• Nurse (AS degree → BSN → RN license)
• Engineer (AS in engineering science → BS in engineering)
• Computer scientist or IT professional (AS in computer science → BS)

AAS Degree

Best for you if:

• You want to go directly into the workforce after 2 years.
• You want to prepare for a specific career/technical field (e.g., automotive tech, HVAC, welding, culinary arts, IT support, radiologic tech, dental hygienist, early childhood education).
• You do not plan to transfer.
• You want a career credential fast.

Career path examples:

• Registered nurse (some colleges offer AAS degree in nursing leading directly to RN licensing)
• Dental hygienist
• HVAC technician
• Computer network specialist
• Paralegal

If you're interested in the dentistry field, you can check jobs with a certificate in dental assisting.

Before enrolling in an associate degree program, it’s important to consider a few key factors. First, check your career’s minimum education requirements. Some professions may require a bachelor’s degree or higher for entry-level roles.

Next, review any transfer agreements between your community college and nearby four-year universities, as AA and AS degrees are often designed to transfer smoothly into bachelor’s programs.

Finally, confirm any licensing or certification requirements if your chosen field is regulated, such as healthcare, law, or education, to ensure your degree aligns with state or industry standards.

How much does an AA, AS, or AAS degree usually cost?

The cost of earning an AA, AS, or AAS degree can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of institution, location, and program of study.

On average, students attending public community colleges can expect to pay between $7,000 and $11,000 in tuition and fees over two years for in-state programs. When factoring in housing, food, transportation, books, and personal expenses, the total cost can climb to $20,000 to $40,000 or more, especially in higher-cost-of-living areas or private schools.

According to recent educational data, the typical two-year total at a community college ranges from $9,845 to $20,091 for in-state students, depending on whether they live at home, on campus, or independently. Out-of-state and private institutions tend to charge higher tuition rates, which can significantly increase the overall cost.

Several other factors can also influence the final price tag of your associate degree. Programs in healthcare, technology, or engineering often require lab access, specialized equipment, or additional course fees.

Students in STEM or technical tracks may also need to purchase extra materials, tools, or uniforms. In addition, colleges frequently charge student services fees that cover amenities such as health services, transportation, parking, and technology support.

Ultimately, understanding these costs upfront, and exploring financial aid, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement programs, can help you plan more effectively and reduce the overall financial burden of your associate degree.

What scholarships are available for associate degree students?

An associate's degree can be more affordable than a bachelor’s, but many students still need help covering costs. 

When it comes to financial aid, students pursuing associate degrees have access to a variety of funding options. Federal and state financial aid programs—including the FAFSA, Pell Grants, and work-study opportunities—are available to eligible students.

Many community colleges also offer institutional scholarships, tuition waivers, and payment plans to make education more affordable. Additionally, students in technical or high-demand fields like healthcare and computer science may qualify for industry-sponsored grants or employer tuition reimbursement programs, reducing out-of-pocket costs even further.

Listed below are some scholarships for this degree type:

• Associates Scholarship by the Center for Cyber Safety and Education: This scholarship is for associate's degree students in cybersecurity, information assurance, or a similar field. It requires a minimum GPA (~2.50), proof of financial need, and an essay.

• Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship: Offered by Phi Theta Kappa to community college students; it gives $1,000 to help cover costs. It helps those in 2-year colleges, especially students who are involved in leadership or community service.
• Horatio Alger Career & Technical Scholarship: This program assists students enrolled in certificate or associate's programs, particularly those exemplifying perseverance and overcoming adversity. Awards are usually up to a few thousand dollars (e.g. $2,500) and help with tuition, fees, and housing.

• Online Associate Degree Scholarship: This scholarship is for students taking online associate degrees from accredited institutions. It only requires proof of enrollment in a fully online associate program.

What timeline and next steps should I follow after choosing an AA, AS, or AAS degrees?

Once you have chosen whether you want an AA, AS, or AAS degree, the next step is to apply for admission and get ready for a new academic experience. Here’s a timeline that you can follow.

Immediately after deciding (0–1 month)

• Research colleges/programs that offer your prospective degree. Make sure they have transfer agreements (for AA/AS) or career placement (for AAS).
• Check the admission requirements.
• Contact an academic advisor or admissions office to learn about program details.

3–6 months before classes

• Apply for admission to the community college.
• Submit transcripts (high school or prior colleges).
• Take placement tests (English/math) if required, or submit SAT/ACT scores to waive them.
• Apply for scholarships early.
• Check program-specific requirements.

2–3 months before classes

• Meet with an academic advisor to select courses and build your degree plan.
• Register for classes as soon as registration opens.
• Arrange housing/transportation (on-campus, off-campus, or commuting).

1 month before classes

• Buy textbooks, supplies, and equipment.
• Attend orientation.
• Set up student accounts (email, online learning portals, financial aid dashboards).
• Finalize financial aid.

First semester & beyond

• Stay in touch with your advisor to make sure you’re on track for transfer (AA/AS) or graduation/licensing (AAS).
• Form relationships with professors and peers, so you can get help with transfer recommendations or job leads.
• Track requirements each semester.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their AA, AS, and AAS Degrees

What is the return on investment of an associate degree?

Evaluating long-term financial benefits relative to upfront costs is essential when choosing an educational pathway. Analysis indicates that associate degrees may offer accelerated ROI through lower tuition, reduced student debt, and earlier entry into the workforce compared to traditional bachelor's programs. In many fields, starting salaries for associate degree holders help offset the initial investment, contributing to quicker financial stability. Additionally, career services and targeted training programs can enhance earning potential and streamline professional growth. Students seeking flexible, cost-effective education paths should also consider pursuing online degrees that align with market demands and future career planning.

Other Things You Should Know About an AA, AS, and AAS Degree