While a bachelor’s degree typically requires twice the amount of time to complete compared to an associate degree, experts agree that the investment in your future is worthwhile.. In many cases, an associate degree can do double duty, demonstrating skills to an employer while also offering a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree. Associate degrees in fields like accounting, business administration, and fashion merchandising also lead to entry-level jobs paying more than $30,000 with significant growth opportunities. An Associate of Applied Science, or AAS Degree, is a two-year undergraduate degree similar to the Associate of Arts (AA) and the Associate of Science (AS). Associate’s degree programs also offer plenty of flexible learning options so you can continue working your current job while fitting courses into your busy schedule. Here’s how to get started. An associate degree in human services typically takes about two years of full-time study to complete. Most associate’s degree programs can be completed in two years or less. They are primarily based on technical training and not designed for transfer. It has been my first job in the field since graduating. This program is an innovation in advancing working professionals from Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) to Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS). Earning a bachelor’s degree improves your earning potential, job opportunities, and job satisfaction. 3 This option has the ability to save you time and money compared to a four-year bachelor’s program. I've learned a lot and made a lot of contacts over the time. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts they will all have employment growth of 14 to 31 percent between 2016 and 2026—faster or much faster than the increase for most careers. However, in recent years, there has been an emergence of vocational degrees at the bachelor's level called Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degrees. I went to a community college to get my associates before going to a university as well. Hello folks, I have been a GIS consultant for a private firm for over 4 years now. Value depends on how you value…so results will vary. Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees are vocational degrees designed to prepare students for a vocation. These 10 jobs that you can get with an associate degree all have a stellar employment outlook. Having the degree shows accomplishment. An Associate of Applied Science in welding, commonly called an AAS in welding technology, is a two-year program that prepares students for a career as a welder. In general, having an AA is better than having credits with no degree. The reality is that most of the requirements for AA are not technical (math's, reading, etc.) Weber State University was the first school in the world to develop an online Medical Laboratory Sciences program for both AAS and BS degrees, beginning in 2001. That all depends on your skill set. When choosing an occupation, it is essential to make sure there will be employment opportunities in the … The AAS degree is designed for students who want to go straight into the workforce whereas the AA and AS are designed as transfer degrees. Students searching for Associate in Applied Science (AAS): Accounting Degree Overview found the following information and resources relevant and helpful.