* In terms of completion of education: Yes, an associate degree is a formally awarded degree representing the completion of a specific course of study at a college or university. It's a legitimate credential.
* In terms of equivalency to a bachelor's degree: No, an associate degree is generally not considered equivalent to a bachelor's degree. Bachelor's degrees typically require more coursework and represent a higher level of educational achievement. A bachelor's degree is often a prerequisite for many jobs and graduate programs.
* In terms of acceptability for a specific job or program: This varies greatly. Some jobs may accept an associate degree, while others may require a bachelor's degree or higher. Similarly, some graduate programs may accept applicants with associate degrees, but often require a bachelor's degree or specific prerequisites. You always need to check the specific requirements.
In short, an associate degree is a real degree, but its acceptability depends on the specific situation. It's not a direct substitute for a bachelor's degree in most cases.