An associate's degree is generally the fastest to obtain. Normally, it takes two years and 60 college credits to complete an associate's degree program, if the student is attending full time. Associate's degree programs are available in all types of subjects, including technology, arts, health, business, education and criminal justice. Students can obtain this degree online or in person at community colleges and universities. Some use an associate's degree as a foundation for their education and then transfer to a school where they can work toward a higher degree.
Bachelor's degrees can be earned at a baccalaureate college or university and normally take around four years and 120 credit hours to complete, if the student attends classes full time. Online bachelor's degrees are starting to become more popular. Most courses are taken in general education subjects, social sciences and liberal arts, along with classes related to the student's major. Bachelor's degree are of two main types: bachelor of science and bachelor of arts. A bachelor of science degree focuses on life, mathematical and physical sciences; a bachelor of arts has courses in areas such as arts, social sciences and humanities.
A master's degree program is a way of building on what you have learned while working on a bachelor's degree. You can continue in college full time after completing your bachelor's degree or go into the work force and attend classes part time to obtain a master's degree. Earning a master's degree often means higher pay, more job opportunities and an edge over others who do not have a graduate degree. Common types of master's degrees include the master of business administration, master of science and master of arts.
One of the biggest differences among associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees is the time it takes to complete them. An associate's degree can be finished in as little as two years, a bachelor's in four years, and a master's degree can take up to three additional years of schooling to complete. Another notable difference is the cost of each degree. According to the College Board, earning an associate's degree, on average, will cost $2,713 per year. Earning a bachelor's or master's degree at a four-year college can cost about $7,600 per year of study. Ultimately, the choice of degree will depend on what type of career you want to pursue and how much time and money you can invest in your education.