What Comes After Associate Degree: Here Are Your Options

Key Takeaways

• An associate’s degree opens many doors, but deciding what comes next depends on your goals and situation.
• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree after an associate’s can lead to better job opportunities and higher earnings.
• Advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral programs, offer specialization and leadership roles but require more time and commitment.
• Not everyone must continue school immediately since certifications, internships, and networking are also valuable alternatives.

If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that choosing a career path is rarely simple. Even after earning an Associate’s degree, many are left asking, what comes after an associate’s degree? The process often brings uncertainty, questions, and the need for clarity. While an Associate’s degree opens doors to new opportunities, it can also spark a desire for something more. Understanding the paths available beyond this point can make all the difference in shaping a successful career.

What Comes After an Associate Degree?

Figuring out your next step after earning an Associate’s degree can feel overwhelming. You’ve already put in the hard work, and now you’re standing at a crossroads wondering, “Is this enough?” or “Should I keep going?” 

Many people face the same uncertainty. The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are plenty of options, depending on your goals, interests, and life situation. 

Let’s break them down and explore where you can go from here.

Bachelor Degree

If you’re thinking about building on your associate’s degree, a bachelor’s might be your next move. It typically takes two more years if you’ve already completed general education credits. This path can open doors to higher-paying jobs, deeper expertise in your field, and more opportunities for growth. It’s a solid step if you’re looking to move beyond entry-level positions or switch career paths entirely.

Compiling a list of bachelor’s degrees and their specific majors would make such a long, utter list. The most popular types of bachelor’s degrees you can choose from are:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A. degree)
• Bachelor of Science (B.S. degree)
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A. degree)
• Bachelor of Business Administration
• Bachelor of Architecture

Master’s Degree

After a bachelor’s degree, you might start thinking about a master’s degree, especially if you’re aiming for specialized roles or leadership positions. A master’s program lets you dive deeper into your area of interest and can significantly boost your earning potential. It’s a bigger commitment, but for many, it’s a rewarding one.

There are different types of master’s degrees, just as was the case with B.A. degrees. However, the most pursued ones remain.

• The M.A. (Master of Arts) or the M.F.A. (Master of Fine Arts), which cover social sciences, communication, and education
• The M.S. (Master of Science) covering science and social science programs
• The M. Res. (Master of Research) prepares students with research methodologies
• M.Phil. (Master of Philosophy)
• The Master of Laws, which allows lawyers to specialize
• The M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration), which is designed for management professionals

Doctoral Degree

This is the highest level of academic achievement and is usually pursued by those interested in research, academia, or highly specialized careers. It takes time, focus, and dedication, but if you’re passionate about becoming an expert in your field, it could be the ultimate goal. It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. The important thing is knowing it’s there if you ever feel called to pursue it.

How to Transition From an Associate to a Bachelor’s Degree

Obtaining an associate’s degree in two years seems like the obvious choice for someone who does not want to commit to a four-year program immediately.

An associate’s degree program contains more general education courses, so when you transition into a bachelor’s program, what will be left to complete are the courses directly linked to your major. There are several benefits of an associate’s degree before a bachelor’s, and most of them result from the differences between the two programs. 

Reasons to transition to a bachelor’s

If you have decided to take the next step after your associate’s degree, here are some key reasons why that’s the smart move:

• Better job opportunities – Many employers prefer or require a bachelor’s degree for mid-level and specialized roles.
• Higher earning potential – On average, bachelor’s degree holders earn more than those with only an associate’s degree.
• More career flexibility – A broader education can open doors to different industries or roles within your field.
• Pathway to advanced degrees – A bachelor’s is usually required if you plan to pursue a master’s or doctorate degree.
• Personal growth – Going further in your education can help build confidence, critical thinking, and deeper knowledge in your area of interest.

Differences Between The Degrees

Before deciding what comes next, it helps to understand how each degree level builds on the one before it.

An associate’s degree is typically a 2-year program focused on foundational knowledge and skills, ideal for quick entry into the workforce. A bachelor’s degree usually takes 4 years total and offers more in-depth study, opening doors to higher-paying and more specialized roles.

A master’s degree digs deeper into a specific field and can lead to leadership or expert-level positions. A doctoral degree is the most advanced, focusing on research or highly specialized knowledge, often required for academic or top-tier professional roles.

Each step up provides you with more expertise, but it also requires more time, investment, and clarity about your career goals.

Other Pathways to Consider

Not everyone needs or wants to continue immediately after earning an associate’s degree, and that’s completely okay. If you’re ready to join the workforce, there are still plenty of ways to grow your career.

Consider internships to gain real-world experience and explore roles in your field. Professional certifications can add value to your resume and increase your employability in areas like IT, healthcare, or business. Don’t underestimate the power of networking; connecting with professionals or joining industry groups can lead to new opportunities.

Tap into your school’s alumni resources for mentorship and guidance. At the University of the Potomac, for instance, students benefit from career services, industry-aligned certificate programs, and a supportive alumni network, all designed to help you thrive, even if you decide not to pursue a bachelor’s right away.

How to Choose the Right Path

Still not sure which direction to go? That’s perfectly normal. Start by asking yourself a few honest questions: 

• “What are my career goals”? 
• “Am I happy with the job options available to me now?” 
• “Do I want to specialize further or move up in my field?” 

Think about your financial situation, time availability, and whether continuing school fits into your current lifestyle. It can also help to talk with career counselors, academic advisors, or even professionals currently working in the roles you’re aiming for. Your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s because what matters most is that it works for you.

Bottom Line

In a world full of stiff competition for jobs and degrees, having a good understanding of the options available to you will certainly assist you in making better and well-informed choices. So you should make sure to check the individual college’s requirements and eligibility criteria before you apply to any of their programs.

The way we make our decisions determines the success we have in life. Therefore, before deciding on any of the degrees listed above, make sure to have a clear mind and reflect on your goals for the future. Studies have shown that the prospects of having a brighter future are higher if you possess advanced qualifications. Yet, in some cases, your work experience can be all the qualifications you need.

That’s why we at Potomac believe that career decisions are subjective. However, if you want to get more informed on what we can offer you, then contact us and learn more about the degree alternatives available at Potomac University.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are associate degrees worth it?

Absolutely! An Associate’s degree can be a great stepping stone—it often leads to entry-level jobs, provides essential skills, and can save you time and money compared to jumping straight into a bachelor’s program. Plus, it gives you a solid foundation if you decide to continue your education later.

How long does it take to get an associate’s degree?

Typically, an Associate’s degree takes about two years of full-time study to complete. Part-time options may take longer, depending on your schedule and pace.

When is a Ph.D. degree necessary, and what are the main types of doctoral degrees?

A Ph.D. degree is the most advanced and research-focused form of a doctoral degree. Common types of doctoral degrees include Ph.D., M.D. (Doctor of Medicine), Ed.D. (Doctor of Education), and J.D. (Juris Doctor).