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Associate Degree Vs. Bachelor Degree

from: Kyle Besser

There really are few ways to compare a two-year education with a four-year education that would be fair to either degree program. The truth of the matter is that both are excellent for certain situations while both also offer limitations. When it comes to pros and cons, they both have their own set of both.

Associate's Degrees Pros

When considering a two year college program, there are several things to consider in its favor before you decide. The degree or certification you would receive at the end of your two year college studies wouldn't necessarily be the end of your education. Two-year college degrees are excellent starting points for four year college degrees. Two-year college degrees allow you the option to venture out into the workplace with your skills and knowledge and give you greater earning potential than just a high school diploma. You will also have the benefit of entering the workplace sooner with an associate's degree than with a bachelor's degree. Most importantly for those who are limited by budgets, two year colleges offer an affordable alternative for a college education or even the first two years of your education.

Associate's Degrees Cons

The biggest con that most people find when it comes to two year college degrees is the growing competition for limited jobs. It is difficult to remain competitive in any industry when there are more and more people entering the work force with bachelor's degrees. It is simply more difficult to maintain a competitive edge with only a two-year degree, though it is not impossible. The other obvious con when it comes to two year college degrees is that some positions will not even consider anyone with less than a four year degree.

Bachelor's Degree Pros

A bachelor's degree will give you far greater earning potential in your lifetime than a high school education and even a two year college degree. A bachelor's degree will also place you in a position of serious competition within your chosen field or industry. You will often be given preference when seeking jobs over those who do not have degrees or those with lesser degrees, regardless of experience. There is also the personal confidence that goes along with earning your degree. You will find that you are much more confident on both a personal and a professional level once you have earned a bachelor's degree.

Bachelor's Degree Cons

The single largest con associated with a bachelor's degree is the expense, both in terms of time and money. You should be certain that you are both willing and able to pay the price before setting out to get a bachelor's degree.

Either a two year degree or a four year degree is in your personal best interest. You can start with the two year degree and eventually seek a four year degree as this will give you a competitive edge. If a two year degree is all you can manage, even the smallest improvement in your education level can mean big gains over the course of your lifetime in earning power.

Sometimes it helps to improve your education in steps. Take one class at a time until you have your associate's degree, and then do the same until you have your bachelor's degree.

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