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An associate degree in psychology gives you the flexibility to pursue entry-level careers or pursue higher education. This page explores pros and cons of associate degrees, what you can expect from your program, and potential career paths.
Popular Online Psychology Associate Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Pros and Cons of Getting an Associate Degree in Psychology
Like all academic programs, associate degrees in psychology offer both advantages and drawbacks. Weigh both the pros and cons in deciding whether this degree matches your learning interests and goals.
Pros
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Associate degrees generally take two years to complete, allowing you to enter the workforce quickly. -
Because associate degrees require less time for completion, they cost less and may deliver strong returns on educational investment. -
You have the flexibility to pursue job opportunities or continue studying psychology or another subject at the bachelor's level. -
Community and junior colleges typically host two-year associate programs. These institutions often have smaller class sizes, lower tuition fees, and instructors who focus solely on teaching, rather than research and publishing. -
Associate degree programs offer an introduction to psychology at the college level without extended cost or time commitments. This can help you make a more accurate determination regarding your long-term academic interest in the subject.
Cons
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With only about 60 credits of required coursework, associate degree students are limited to the study of fundamental psychology concepts. -
Compared to the opportunities that open up with a bachelor's or master's degree, your career options and advancement potential may be limited. -
Candidates with higher degrees may qualify for entry-level professional opportunities before an associate degree-holder. -
Your overall earning potential may be lower than it would be if you held a four-year degree.
What to Expect from an Associate Degree in Psychology
Associate degrees in psychology usually comprise 60 semester credits. By following a typical full-time study schedule, you should be able to graduate in about two years.
Curricula, admission requirements, and costs vary among schools. The sections below offer a snapshot of what you can generally expect in these regards.
Associate Degree in Psychology Courses
- Introduction to Psychology: Associate programs often begin with a high-level, survey-style introduction to psychology covering the field's history, development, and fundamentals.
- Psychology Research Methods: This course explains foundational concepts related to quantitative and qualitative social science research. You explore methodologies, techniques, and common obstacles and issues facing researchers.
- Developmental Psychology: In this course, you engage with theories and research covering human development across the lifespan. Concepts explore a combination of social, emotional, and physical learning.
- Social Psychology: This course introduces the subfield of social psychology, which studies how individuals interact with social groups, institutions, and larger social structures.
- Theories of Personality: Building a foundation for later learning, this course covers historical and contemporary personality theories. Content explores ideas about the origins and lifelong evolution of human personalities.
Associate Degree in Psychology Admission Requirements
Most schools maintain inclusive admission policies for their associate programs. In general, you need a high school diploma or the equivalent and a cumulative GPA of about 2.0.
In terms of application materials, expect to provide:
- Proof of high school completion
- Academic transcripts
- An institutional application
Some schools may request letters of recommendation and/or personal essays. For further details on the application process, consult this guide to undergraduate admissions.
Paying for an Associate Degree in Psychology
Attending a public in-state school is a great way to save money, especially if you're on a budget. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), out-of-state students paid 236% more than their in-state peers to attend a public two-year college in 2021-2022.
If you need financial aid, start by exploring non-repayable options, such as psychology scholarships and grant programs. Reserve loans for funding emergencies, since they create debt.
Annual Tuition and Fees at Two-Year Institutions, 2022-23
$3,598
Public Institution
$17,408
Private Institution
Source: NCES
What You Can Do with an Associate Degree in Psychology
An associate degree in psychology can lead to multiple entry-level career paths and to higher-level learning opportunities. The following subsections profile some options available once you complete a two-year degree.
Careers with an Associate Degree in Psychology
Psychiatric Technicians and Aides
Psychiatric technicians and aides play important frontline roles in caring for patients with developmental, emotional, or psychiatric conditions. They provide supportive care, assist patients in completing everyday activities, and help manage and administer medications. Importantly, technicians and aides also communicate changes in the patient's condition to medical-level caregivers.
Median Salary (2022): $37,330
Social and Human Service Assistants
Social and human service assistants work in settings that include inpatient care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and public agencies. They connect people to resources and support services, follow up with client queries, and liaise with social workers and caregivers on treatment plans and service delivery.
Median Salary (2022): $38,520
Community Health Workers
Community health workers help people access treatments and support services. They also work to identify and reduce barriers that underserved community members face in accessing care and resources. In some cases, community health workers participate in condition management and treatment by coaching patients, monitoring their health, and recommending interventions.
Median Salary (2022): $46,190
Additional Education After an Associate Degree in Psychology
If you earn an associate degree in psychology at an accredited school, other accredited institutions will recognize your credentials. This makes it easy to continue your psychology studies at higher levels, which may open up job opportunities with more pay and greater advancement potential.
The following table summarizes post-associate undergraduate and advanced degree paths:
| Degree | Typical Duration | Median Weekly Earnings | Potential Careers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's in Psychology | 4-5 years | $1,432 | Human resources specialist, case manager, correctional treatment specialist |
| Master's in Psychology | 2-3 years | $1,661 | Mental health counselor, marriage and family therapist, industrial-organizational psychologist |
| Doctorate in Psychology | 4-7 years | $2,083 | Clinical psychologist, counseling psychologist, forensic psychologist |
Is an Associate Degree in Psychology Right for You?
An associate degree in psychology might be right if you're new to higher education or seeking a quick transition to entry-level careers. Associate programs provide an engaging but compact introductory learning experience. Their shorter duration makes graduation more immediately attainable.
You might also be interested in psychology but unsure whether you'd like to pursue a four-year degree or a career in the field. Associate programs can help you resolve that uncertainty by providing a rigorous introduction without demanding a four-year commitment.
Conversely, if you are certain about your academic interests and career choices, a bachelor's program in psychology might make a better match. A bachelor's degree leads more directly to advanced programs and career paths with greater growth potential.
Frequently Asked Questions About an Associate Degree in Psychology
Is an associate degree in psychology worth it?
Associate degrees in psychology often deliver positive returns thanks to their shorter durations and the flexibility they provide. With an associate degree, you can enter the workforce or transfer into a four-year program with advanced standing.
What is the difference between an AA and AS in psychology?
Associate of arts (AA) and associate of science (AS) programs differ slightly in their academic coverage. AA programs focus more on theory and the qualitative elements of psychology. Meanwhile, AS programs typically place more emphasis on scientific research and the field's quantitative aspects.
What are the highest-paying jobs with an associate degree in psychology?
Community health workers earn median salaries of $46,190 per year, ranking them among the best-paid in-field professionals whose roles require only a two-year degree. You can boost your earning potential and your career options by upgrading to a bachelor's degree.
Is an associate degree in psychology respected?
Employers of psychology graduates generally consider associate degrees appropriate for entry-level and supporting roles. However, note that you may compete for these jobs against candidates who hold higher degrees. If you find your employment options limited after graduation, consider earning a higher degree.
Page last reviewed on March 13, 2024