The ongoing effects of the pandemic have expedited digital transformation in just about any industry and sector, including education. Because of this, aspiring teachers need to be proficient not only in the most essential teaching skills but also in digital learning. One way to accomplish this is by looking into associate degree programs in education.
Getting this degree is a step closer to becoming one of the 68.8 million teachers needed to attain basic education worldwide by 2030 (UNESCO, 2022). Pursuing an associate degree in this field entails learning about the importance of education, educational theories and their applications, and classroom management, to name a few. Moreover, while this degree does not result in obtaining a license, graduates can still practice their passion for teaching in different ways.
Our team at Research.com explains why soon-to-be college students should consider pursuing an associate degree in teaching. We also include a list of postsecondary institutions that offer this degree to provide students with insights into what an associate degree in education entails.
Education degrees prepare students to become competent professionals, ready to face any challenge. As the effects of COVID-19 and the Fourth Industrial Revolution shape the world, students of teaching programs need to be equipped with skills that will help them become effective Education 4.0 educators. Data from HolonIQ (2021) reveals that global education technology spending will reach $404 billion by 2025, a 12.2% increase from 2020. By preparing for educational and digital advancements, future teachers can enhance learning and teaching.
A study by González-Pérez and Ramírez-Montoya (2022) further cements this. They say that “The dynamics of Industry 4.0 in the present and the future present a reality that makes changes imperative for Education 4.0: Educational models must integrate artificial intelligence, data management, ubiquitous technologies, robots, and cloud computing to facilitate, among many other things, reducing the post-pandemic collateral damage of a world in complete technological change. Reconstructing knowledge and the ways to apply it…can serve as a starting point to generate the necessary changes to construct a sustainable development future in all disciplines of knowledge.”
Their work titled “Components of Education 4.0 in 21st Century Skills Frameworks: Systematic Review” published in Sustainability, adds that education stakeholders must “follow up with training that generates new knowledge, services, or products in 21st century education. Training in complex reasoning skills, with scientific, critical, creative, innovative, and systemic thinking, and developing habits for well-being, mental health, and interpersonal relationships will support training that leads to problem-solving and attention to social needs.”
Furthermore, whether students take up associate degree programs in education or other degree types in teaching, they are geared up with the necessary skills needed in Industry 4.0 and in a digitally transforming world.
Prospective students interested in an early childhood education degree might be wondering, “What can you do with an associate’s degree in education?” if it is not a licensure track. In this section, we answer this question with the top three reasons why students should consider pursuing an early childhood education degree and choosing the right institution that fits their needs.
Salaries for the different types of associate degrees vary. For instance, with a two-year degree in education, graduates can become preschool teachers, teacher assistants, and childcare workers. In particular, the associate degree in education salary for preschool teachers is $30,210/year. By comparison, the average weekly salary of associate degree holders is around $963. Those occupations have a job outlook of 2% to 6%, except for preschool teachers. The latter has a 15% job outlook, which is much faster than the average percent change in employment (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021; 2022).
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
Getting an associate degree in teaching means that students can take on a teaching job without the pressure of committing to a bachelor’s program. This is a smart choice for students who wish to have experience in the field but are not yet set on their career paths.
Related occupations include paraeducators, substitute teachers, tutors, or childcare directors. Meanwhile, those who do not wish to teach can work as library technicians, counselor assistants, research assistants, translators, or school administrator assistants.
Another option is to consider applying for the highest-paying jobs without a degree. Suffice it to say, this program is perhaps the best degree to study for those who simply want to explore various careers within the education sector.
Students wishing to take an associate degree can save on expenses for the same quality of education. So, how much does it cost to get an associate degree? The average cost of an associate degree on campus is around $15,900 for public institutions and around $27,200 to $33,300 for private universities (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022). Furthermore, students who take associate degrees usually complete their courses in two years or less, since the curriculum focuses on the core skills of that program. The associate degree in education requirements are also easy to accomplish since these usually include a high school transcript or diploma and GPA scores.
Our team of researchers collated 20 of the best associate degree programs in education from credible sources to help potential students make informed decisions. We looked into the postsecondary institutions’ rankings, affordability, and other key metrics to complete this list. Furthermore, the data below consist of the total credit hours, cost per credit, available concentrations, and description of the institution’s program.
Credit hours: 60-64
Cost per credit: $75 (in-district), $85 (out-of-district), $95 (out-of-state)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AA, AAS), Teacher Education: Elementary/Secondary (AA)
Since its inception in 1923, Allen Community College has fostered an accessible and affordable institution for all types of students. Its programs are directed toward enriching students’ skills so that they reach their full potential. The associate degrees in education also aim to challenge students in different teaching scenarios. This helps them develop into effective instructors who value growth, diversity, and partnership.
Credit hours: 60
Cost per credit: $242.50 (in-state), $485 (out-of-state)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AS)
Arkansas Tech University offers accessible education that promotes innovation, civic engagement, and student development. The institution takes pride in its 18:1 student-to-teacher ratio, which is conducive to hands-on learning. The associate degrees in education are both offered on campus and online and focus on helping students succeed as early education teachers. The programs also instill technical and soft skills in their learners. In fact, they offer a competitive cyber security degree online to those who want to pursue a career in tech.
Credit hours: 62
Cost per credit: $160 (in-state), $357.60 (out-of-state)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Development (AAS)
Brightpoint Community College, formerly John Tyler Community College, empowers students to be creative thinkers by fostering an engaging and culturally diverse community. It aims to produce global citizens who are proactive and ready to face any challenge with the skills they developed in the institution. The associate degree focuses on the core education theories and strategies to help future educators thrive in their field. The program also enables learners to participate in a practicum to further improve their teaching abilities.
Credit hours: 60
Cost per credit: $153 (in-state), $258.50 (out-of-county), $283.50 (out-of-state)
Concentrations: Elementary, Middle School, and Secondary Education, Education (AA), Early Childhood Education (AA), Education (AS), Technical Education (AAS)
Brookdale Community College is a diverse institution that produces engaged students through informative and cultural programs. Its aim is to promote economic empowerment and institutional integrity by molding motivated students who are willing to learn and participate in the community. Students pursuing an associate degree in teaching gain knowledge of social learning theory and other instructional theories, as well as effective classroom management strategies.
Credit hours: 72
Cost per credit: $420
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AA)
Concordia University, St. Paul offers more than 100 degree programs that cater to all types of students all over the world. In the past century, It had provided flexible learning schedules to improve students’ skills and abilities. With its online two-year program in education, it teaches students about school system structures, child development, and introduction to psychology to form a solid foundation in teaching. The institution also offers credit transfers to help students advance their education.
Credit hours: 91
Cost per credit: $350
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AAS)
Davis College was founded in 1858 and has since produced graduates who are marketable and will be highly valued in their fields. With a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, it ensures that all learners receive the highest quality of education. It prepares students to be compassionate teachers and competent professionals who can work in any field. The program also guarantees students a direct transfer path to a four-year degree in its partner universities.
Credit hours: 60-61
Cost per credit: $188.90 (in-state), $283.35 (out-of-state)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AAS), Foundations of Teacher Education (AAS), Career and Technical Education Instruction (AAS), Family & Consumer Sciences Education Instruction (AAS)
Fox Valley Technical College provides 200 two-year programs to help students become lifelong learners and skilled members of the workforce. It aims to promote advanced educational solutions in classes to further hone learners’ talents and skills. The associate degrees in education train students to create effective curricula, apply learning strategies, and implement child development processes. It also offers technical diplomas in assistant and early childhood teacherships and an apprenticeship in early childhood education.
Credit hours: 60
Cost: $15,438 (tuition per semester for 12-17 credit hours)
Concentrations: Elementary and Early Childhood (AA), Secondary (AA)
Hesston College aims to provide holistic quality education to learners by engaging them in diverse activities and challenging opportunities. It also aims to nurture students in caring environments and through a Christ-centered community. The associate degrees in teaching engage learners to experience hands-on teaching through active class sessions and observations. It also assists students should they wish to transfer to a four-year teaching program to continue their studies.
Credit hours: 60
Cost per credit: $390
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AA), Education (AA)
Founded in 1971, Liberty University offers more than 300 residential and online undergraduate programs. The university aims to develop Christ-centered students who will make impactful changes in society. The career-focused associate degrees in teaching are both online and serve as great stepping stones to a four-year program. In addition, its program also equips students with core competencies to meet the demands of today’s workforce.
Credit hours: 60
Cost: $46/unit (in-state), $332 + $46/unit (non-resident)
Concentrations: Child & Adolescent Development for Transfer (ADT), Early Childhood Education for Transfer (ADT)
With an innovative approach to teaching, Norco College aims to transform learners’ lives by delivering inclusive and quality education to all types of students. It offers various programs that encourage students to reach their full potential. In particular, the degrees in education offer information-packed pathways that help them become competent teachers of tomorrow. It also helps learners develop the soft skills they need to thrive in any kind of environment.
Source: Norco College, 2020-2021
Credit hours: 60
Cost per credit: $108 (resident), $151 (non-resident)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AAS, AA), Education: Elementary/Secondary (AA), Education Paraprofessionals (AA)
Northeast Community College provides more than 130 degree programs that put its students’ success forward. With a 17:1 student-to-teacher ratio, it also offers hands-on learning that trains students to become stewards of resources. The two-year education programs aim to prepare instructors by teaching them about professional concepts and learning strategies. It also enables learners to practice their skills in a practicum and other college activities.
Credit hours: 60-61
Cost per credit: $266 (in-state), $800 (out-of-state)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AS), Early Childhood Teacher Credential Studies (AS), Early Childhood/Elementary Education Transfer Pathways (AS)
Part of the Connecticut community college system, Northwestern Connecticut Community College trains students to be lifelong learners and functioning members of society. It aspires to be an inclusive institution that cultivates a supportive and inspiring environment. In addition, the associate degrees in education help future educators understand their students and foster safe learning spaces. It also trains learners to become engaged and proactive members of the workforce.
Credit hours: 60
Cost per credit: $293.75 – $389.63
Concentrations: Early Childhood Development and Education (AA)
Ohio State University takes pride in producing graduates who are engaged leaders and citizens by providing programs for education and business administration degree online, among many other disciplines. It aims to provide a culturally diverse, community-engaged, and innovative environment for all types of learners. In particular, the teaching program helps build the foundation that future educators will need in a fast-paced world. It also offers associate licensure in pre-kindergarten education, which enables graduates to become licensed childcare professionals.
Credit hours: 60
Cost: $1,104/year or $690/semester
Concentrations: Education (AA, AS), Early Childhood Education (ADT, AS), Elementary Teacher Education (ADT), Child and Adolescent Development (ADT)
Riverside City College promotes a student-centered community that promotes diversity, social justice, and equity. It empowers students to become civic engagers and responsible young adults who can contribute well to society. The associate degrees in teaching and education follow a liberal studies curriculum that prepares students to become fully equipped educators. The institution also enables students to advance their studies through transfer-ready programs.
Credit hours: 60
Cost per credit: $399 (on campus), $415 (online)
Concentrations: Education (AA), Early Childhood Education (AA)
SAGU American Indian College aims to provide quality education to help students develop their skills and abilities holistically. Its “mission-minded” centered programs also help students to become proactive members of the community. The two-year degrees in education focus on the foundations of education and Christian values. Lastly, it also offers an online program for students who wish to study remotely.
Credit hours: 63
Cost per credit: $485
Concentrations: Early Childhood Educatin (AS)
A Catholic educational institution, Saint Francis University aims to mold students who are on a lifelong path to learning and good virtues. It promotes innovative and collaborative learning to hone students to be compassionate and truthful members of society. The degrees in education concentrate on developing learners’ pedagogical mastery, professional competence, and soft skills. Lastly, the institution guides students who wish to continue their studies with a four-year degree.
Credit hours: 63
Cost per credit: $192 (in-state), $366 (out-of-state)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AAS)
Southern State Community College aims to provide affordable and quality education to students all across the world. It wishes to shape learners into becoming engaged, fair, and excellent citizens of the future. In its associate degree program, students are trained to become responsible educators who can implement the curriculum and teaching strategies efficiently. Students will also learn about the principles of education and undergo practicum and seminar sessions.
Credit hours: 60
Cost per credit: $234 (in-state), $800 (out-of-state), $18,390 (total cost, online)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AAS)
Since 1935, the University of Alaska Fairbanks has been providing transformative experiences through education programs as well as creative writing degrees online to students to help them improve. It aims to foster an educational community rich in diversity, research, and engagement. The two-year program delivers a student-centered approach that builds the foundation of childhood education. It offers this program online, in-person, or in hybrid mode and enable students to easily transfer to a bachelor’s degree.
Credit hours: 60
Cost: $5,964 (total cost, in-state)
Concentrations: AAS with an emphasis on Education
University of Wisconsin – Washington County fosters a caring community where students can explore and test their skills before entering the workforce. With a small class size of 12 students, they can ensure that all students receive hands-on learning. The associate of arts and sciences entails a liberal arts program with a concentration on a chosen discipline. In particular, education emphasis tackles psychology, childhood and adolescent studies, and experience in education.
Credit hours: 60
Cost: $46/unit (in-state), $337/unit (out-of-state) or $10,824 – $25,176 (in-state), $19,554 – $33,906 (out-of-state)
Concentrations: Early Childhood Education (AS-T), Child and Adolescent Development (AA-T), Liberal Studies – Elementary Teaching (AA)
West Hills College – Coalinga empowers students to reach their full potential by providing high-quality education and a supportive environment. The goal is to produce graduates who are practicing their skills with focus and communicating effectively. The two-year degrees in education focus on shaping future educators who can work in any field. In addition, the institution also helps learners who wish to transfer credits to a baccalaureate degree to become gain licensure.
Source: West Hills College - Coalinga, 2022
In this guide, our Research.com team briefly detailed why future postsecondary students should consider pursuing associate degree programs in education. We also listed universities and colleges that offer this program. As Education 4.0 continues to evolve, the next breed of educators should be adept at all kinds of skills and knowledge that will not only make them competent but also help them improve their students.
Choosing an institution from the best associate degree programs in education that we provided above can also aid would-be teachers to keep up with the latest techniques and pedagogies in education. Likewise, they can consider advancing their degrees through online education degree programs to equip themselves with the abilities needed in a more competitive field of teaching and learning.
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by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
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