Associate degree coursework gives college students a solid educational foundation on which to build, introducing key concepts and providing a path to advanced study. Online associate degree programs in education take things one step further, allowing you to learn about your chosen field when and where you choose.
What to expect from associate degree programs in education
While associate degree programs can give students a broader view of a discipline, many also allow you to hone in on a certain area. Popular specialties within education include:
- Subject-specific teaching (science, math, English, etc.)
- Early childhood education
- Elementary education
- Secondary education
- Special education
The exact coursework you'll study changes based on your program and specialization choices. However, you might learn any of the following skills in an associate education degree program:
- Approaches to modern education
- Designing learning activities and educational games
- Working with children with special needs
Associate degrees in education can be completed in as little as two years, making it a focused, practical degree program that doesn't have the four-year time commitment of a bachelor's degree.
Benefits of online associate degree programs in education
For working adults, online associate degree programs in education are a smart way to move your career forward while keeping a full-time job. With online education, you can learn and study virtually anywhere, at any time. This convenient study mode provides you with 24-hour access to course materials, qualified instructors and fellow students. Whether you've been away from school for a long time or you're adding on to more recent training, an online associate degree helps smooth the transition back to school, as you gain valuable skills.
Careers for graduates with associate degrees in education
Earning an associate degree in education means starting your education career with targeted training. This level of degree can qualify you for a number of entry-level jobs in the field. Here are just a few potential careers for those with associate degree in education, including salary statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Preschool teachers work with young children on developmental growth skills through play, reading, and other activities. Job prospects are supposed to be excellent for this profession. May 2014, mean annual salary for preschool teachers: $32,040
- Teacher assistants work with different age groups. They help instructors plan lessons, work one-on-one with students, monitor cafeteria and playground time and more. The best job opportunities are expected for those with at least two years of higher education. May 2014, mean annual salary for teacher assistants: $26,000
- Substitute teaching is another option for graduates with an associate degree in education. These "day-to-day" teachers fill in for full-time teachers at all grade levels. Substitute teachers in public schools usually sign up at the school district level. Some individual schools and principals hire substitutes directly, especially at private schools. Per diem pay rates may vary by district, level and school. May 2014 mean annual salary for substitute teachers: $29,790
Many graduates with associate degrees in education go on to pursue bachelor's degrees, opening up more options for teaching and other careers. Some add specialized training in special needs or English as a Second Language (ESL), further increasing their value in the teaching world.
Explore education degree programs
You can find more specifics by visiting the Majors in Education section of WorldWideLearn's Guide to College Majors. Or get started by researching the education degree programs below. If a program interests you, simply fill out the form requesting more information and an admissions representative from that school will contact you.
Pursue online associate degree programs in education today and discover how online career training adds freedom and flexibility to your educational plans.
"Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education," Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2014, June 24, 2015, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252011.htm
"Preschool Teachers," U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, June 24, 2015, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/preschool-teachers.htm
"Teacher Assistants," Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2014, June 24, 2015, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes259041.htm
"Teacher Assistants," U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, June 24, 2015, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/teacher-assistants.htm
"Substitute Teachers," Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2014, June 24, 2015, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes253098.htm
"Substitute Teachers," Occupational Classification System Manual, June 24, 2015, http://www.bls.gov/ncs/ocs/ocsm/comA160.htm