Online Associate’s Programs
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Online Associate’s Programs
National University’s online associate degrees offer an accessible and convenient way for busy adults to quickly build essential skills, kick-start their careers, or lay a strong foundation for advanced education. Our programs are designed to fit seamlessly into your life, giving you the flexibility to learn on your schedule and the support needed to succeed professionally.
Featured Associate’s Degrees
Explore some of our most popular online associate programs designed for career readiness and academic advancement:
- Associate of Arts in General Education
- Associate of Science in Human Biology
- Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
Benefits of Online Associate’s Degrees
An online associate degree from National University can enhance your career, education, and professional potential in several meaningful ways:
Enhance Your Professional Edge
Gain relevant skills employers value, positioning yourself as a qualified and competitive candidate in today’s job market.
Stepping Stone to Your Bachelor’s Degree
Earning an associate degree first can significantly accelerate your journey to a bachelor’s degree, as credits seamlessly transfer into many four-year programs at NU and beyond.
Career Advancement
An associate degree can lead to higher earning potential and improved job security. It’s an ideal credential for quickly moving into entry-level roles or advancing within your current organization.
Flexibility and Convenience
Our online associate programs offer unmatched flexibility, with courses structured in four-week sessions that enable you to balance education around your personal and professional responsibilities.
Industry Certifications
NU integrates valuable industry-recognized certifications within select associate programs, giving you a direct advantage in your job search, and potentially increasing your earning potential.
FAQs
Yes, National University offers fully accredited associate degree programs online, providing flexible, career-focused learning options designed specifically for busy adult students.
Typically, associate’s degrees take about two years. At National University, however, our accelerated four-week courses allow motivated students to complete their degree sooner, often in less than two years.
Absolutely. Online associate degrees from National University are fully accredited, respected by employers, and viewed as equivalent to traditional on-campus degrees.
An associate’s degree provides essential foundational knowledge in specific career fields or academic areas. It prepares you for entry-level employment or serves as a strategic first step toward earning a bachelor’s degree, with credits designed to transfer smoothly into four-year programs.
Yes. NU makes transferring credits straightforward and efficient. We have transfer agreements with numerous colleges, universities, and community colleges, offer financial aid and transfer scholarships, and provide special tuition support for military personnel and their dependents. Connect with an admissions advisor to streamline your transfer process.
National University is a private, nonprofit institution that is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Accreditation ensures our university meets the highest standards of quality in education. Visit our accreditations page to learn more.
Yes. Our goal is to make transferring to NU as seamless as possible, no matter what school you’re coming from. NU has credit transfer agreements with many universities, colleges, and community colleges, and we offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities, including the CCC-ADT Transfer Scholarship and the Transfer to Success Scholarship (available to those who qualify). As a Yellow Ribbon school, we also offer tuition discounts for military personnel and their dependents. Contact an experienced admissions advisor today to learn more about transferring to NU.
Absolutely. National University’s Career Services provides comprehensive career support, including personalized coaching, resume-building workshops, networking opportunities, and access to job portals to help you successfully launch or advance your career.
Resources for Associate’s Programs
Is it Worthwhile to earn an Associate’s Degree?
Yes. Associate degrees open doors for millions of people looking to start a career or jump-start their progress toward a bachelor’s degree. In less than two years at National University, you can acquire the knowledge and skills to pursue some of today’s most in-demand jobs, including entry-level careers in business, education, healthcare, criminal justice, Information technology, and more.
Earning an associate degree from National University is a smart investment in your career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with an associate degree earn a median salary approximately $16,730 higher annually compared to those with only a high school diploma, significantly increasing your earning potential and career opportunities. BLS data.
Find the Online Associate’s Degree Program That’s Right for You
Associate Degree vs. Bachelor’s Degree
If this is your first time getting a degree in higher education, you may wonder if there’s a significant difference between an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree. There are a few differences and key factors to consider.
- Length of Study: Generally, an associate degree program, especially an online one, will take less time to complete. Think of associate programs as more of a broad overview of a subject, while a bachelor’s explores the nuances of your subject of study.
- Career Opportunities: Many entry-level jobs are available for people who get an associate degree, but earning a bachelor’s degree can also open the door to more career advancement opportunities and, sometimes, better pay.
- Future Education: Associate degrees offer transferable credits for further education; bachelor’s degrees allow deeper academic specialization.
- Cost: Of course, with fewer classes, you’ll pay less for an associate degree program than a bachelor’s. It may make more sense to start with an associate degree so you can enter your field and gain experience while earning the money you need to further your education.
Very few solutions are one-size-fits-all, so be sure to think of what your educational and career goals are as you enroll at National University. We’re happy to help in any way we can.
How long does it take to earn an associate’s degree?
Typically, associate degrees take two years to complete, but online programs with accelerated four-week course formats, such as those at National University, often allow students to finish faster.
Accreditation
Accreditation is official confirmation that a university provides quality education meeting rigorous academic standards. National University is proudly accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), ensuring your degree’s value and recognition by employers and other institutions.
Why Choose National University
National University’s holistic approach ensures you receive comprehensive academic, emotional, financial, and career support tailored specifically for busy adults like you. Our online associate degrees provide the flexibility, convenience, and guidance you need to achieve your personal and professional aspirations.
Ready to Get Started?
Take the next step toward your future today. Connect with an NU advisor, explore your online associate degree options, and discover how we can help you reach your goals.
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