With so many options for online education available today, determining your best option can be tricky. Jumping into a four-year degree plan may not be for everyone. That is why Boise State University has two brand-new online associate degree options available for anyone looking to get started on their higher education journey without locking in to a bachelor’s program.
What is an Associate Degree?
Unlike a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree program, Boise State Online’s associate of science or associate of arts can be completed in four semesters. With just 60 total credits needed to earn the degree, students can get a head start on either furthering their education or jumping straight into a thriving job market.
Faster time to completion means graduates can get started on building a career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, associate degree graduates earn more and face lower unemployment than those without a degree.
What are the Associate Degree Requirements?
As a part of the total 60 credits required to earn an online associate degree from Boise State University, students will enroll in University Foundations courses. These classes are tailored to offer the necessary building blocks of higher education with fundamentals taught in a variety of fields.
From oral and written communications to math and science, students will need to earn around 40 credits from University Foundation courses. An additional 20 elective credits round out the associate degree program, with many options for students looking to earn either an associate of art or sciences.
Connect with a student success coach to learn more about which program may be right for you.
What is the Difference Between an Associate Degree and a Certificate?
While earning an associate degree can offer you the foundational skills necessary to confidently enter a career, certificates are a great way to show potential employers your specific areas of study.
Boise State Online offers many different certificate options that can be paired with an associate degree, including two new paths: Business Preparation and Professional Readiness.
With a certificate in business preparation, students can learn the fundamentals of accounting, economics and business technology applications, making it easier to quickly transition into a bachelor’s of business program.
The Professional Readiness Certificate is designed for students who have earned less than 30 credits. Students will gain the skills and knowledge related to identifying job opportunities, personal brand development, professional competency, data-informed decision making, technology skills and career exploration through experiential learning.
How Can I Transfer an Associate Degree to a Bachelor’s Degree?
After completing an associate degree at Boise State University, beginning your bachelor’s is easy! Our dedicated student success coaches are here to answer any questions you might have, helping you make informed decisions about your education.