Both associate and bachelor's degrees offer educational opportunities in a specific field and require students to complete general education courses in English, mathematics, communications, humanities and science. In order to enroll in these programs, students must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Certain programs at both levels may be available in distance learning formats. Both degree programs prepare graduates for entry-level work in a particular field.
While a bachelor's degree program takes four years to complete and an associate degree program takes two years, bachelor's degree programs may require students to achieve certain scores on college admission tests, such as the SAT or ACT. A bachelor's degree program offers a wider selection of degree options, and the final two years of a bachelor's degree program include upper level coursework that prepares students for careers or the opportunity to enroll in a graduate program.
While students who graduate with an associate degree have the option of transferring their credits into a bachelor's degree program, many degrees at this level prepare students for certain careers. According to GetDegrees.com, as of 2010, the highest paying jobs requiring an associate degree include nuclear medicine technologist, medical sonographer, dental hygienist, registered nurse and radiologic technician. The average salaries of these careers range from $52,000- $66,600 per year.
Students who graduate with a bachelor's degree not only have more career options, but may also receive advancement opportunities. Careers that require individuals to have a bachelor's degree include engineering, accounting, finance and education. According to CNBC.com, as of 2010, the five highest paying jobs with bachelor's degree include computer engineering, computer science, mining and mineral engineering, chemical engineering and petroleum engineering. The salaries for these careers range from $60,000-$87,000 per year.