Best Online Associate Of Science Degrees

An associate of science degree helps professionals increase their skills, qualify for job opportunities, and increase their earning potential.

Updated August 24, 2023

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Best Online Associate Of Science Degrees

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Are you ready to find your fit?

An associate of science degree provides college-level training in fields like business, science, engineering, and allied health. During a two-year associate program, undergraduates may take courses on topics like mathematics, chemistry, materials science, management, and healthcare.

Our list ranks the best online associate of science programs for 2021. Prospective students can use the rankings to find the right fit for their interests, budget, and career goals. This article also introduces common AS courses, types of AS degrees, and scholarships for AS students.

FAQ About Associate of Science Degrees


Is an associate of science degree worth it?

An associate of science degree helps professionals increase their skills, qualify for job opportunities, and increase their earning potential, making it a worthwhile investment.

What is the difference between an AS and AA degree?

AS majors include science, engineering, business, and allied health. AA majors include communication, English, and liberal studies. AA degrees typically require more math and science courses than AA programs.

What kinds of jobs can you get with an associate of science degree?

Graduates with an associate of science degree can pursue roles like engineering technician, dental hygienist, and web developer. Graduates can also transfer to a bachelor's program.

How much money can you make with an associate degree?

Professionals with an associate degree earn around a median of $46,000 per year. However, some degrees, including dental hygiene and engineering degrees, lead to higher salary potential.

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Best Online Associate of Science Degrees

#1 Best Online Associate Of Science Degrees

Hazard Community and Technical College

  • Hazard, KY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Hazard Community and Technical College, located in Hazard, Kentucky, operates as a public institution. The two-year associate in science program accepts applicants with a high school diploma or the equivalent. The school may require placement tests for some incoming students. Contact the program for more information on start dates and admission requirements.

The distance learning format appeals to learners who require a flexible schedule. Enrollees benefit from the program's asynchronous course options, which let students complete coursework at any time of day.

An associate degree from the accredited institution prepares graduates for the workforce or a bachelor's program. Most schools maintain articulation agreements with four-year colleges, enabling graduates to transfer their credits seamlessly into a bachelor’s program.

Hazard Community and Technical College Facts:

Online Enrollment: 1,559

Rate of Undergraduate Admission: Not Known

Undergraduate Graduation Rate: 36%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,176

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,616

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,176
Out-of-state
$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
58%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,245
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Types of Associate of Science Programs

Students earning an associate of science degree may specialize in disciplines like allied health, business, science, or engineering. These programs emphasize analytical and problem-solving skills.

Why Pursue an Associate of Science Degree?

An associate of science degree offers several personal and professional benefits, including higher earning potential and specialized training.

  1. 1

    Specialized Training

    Associate programs offer specialized training for in-demand careers.

  2. 2

    Flexibility

    Online AS programs give students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.

  3. 3

    Transfer Options

    Many AS degrees seamlessly transfer to bachelor's programs, allowing students to save money on their bachelor's degree.

  4. 4

    Accessibility

    Online AS programs allow students to attend top programs in the country without relocating.

  5. 5

    Increased Earning Potential

    Professionals with an associate degree benefit from a higher median salary and a lower unemployment rate than workers with only a high school diploma, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What Are the Requirements for an Associate of Science Degree?

Most associate of science degrees require a high school diploma or the equivalent. They may also require SAT or ACT scores, though this requirement is more common in bachelor's programs. Applicants may also need to submit recommendation letters, a resume, and/or a statement of purpose.

After gaining admission, undergraduates complete major courses, general education requirements, and electives. Some programs include laboratory or practicum requirements to give students hands-on experience. Full-time students typically complete their degree in two years.

Courses in an Associate of Science Program

Associate of science degrees may focus on fields like natural sciences, allied health, engineering, business, and mathematics. During an AS program, learners complete introductory courses on topics like chemistry, physics, computer science, engineering, and biology. Most programs also incorporate math courses. Associate of science courses build strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

While each school sets its own curriculum and major requirements, this section introduces courses commonly found in AS programs.

Scholarships for Associate of Science Students

Students earning an associate of science degree qualify for several scholarship opportunities. Professional associations, private foundations, and businesses offer scholarships to AS students. In addition to the following opportunities, students should research scholarships based on factors like their major, state, and career goals.


Scholarships for Associate of Science Students
Scholarship Amount Who Can Apply

Geico Pathway to Completion Associate Degree Scholarship

$1,000 Phi Theta Kappa members pursuing an associate degree qualify for this scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate leadership experience. The award gives preference to applicants with leadership roles in Phi Theta Kappa.

AAWCC National Board Scholarship

$500 The American Association for Women in Community Colleges offers scholarships for women pursuing an associate degree at a community college. Applicants must hold a minimum 2.75 GPA and submit a personal statement and a statement on their financial need.

Darrel Hess Community College Geography Scholarship

$1,500 The American Association of Geographers offers a scholarship for community college students planning to transfer into a four-year institution to earn a geography degree. Applicants must be enrolled at a two-year institution and must have taken at least two transferable courses in geography. The award considers academic excellence and financial need.

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