Associate Degree Programs (2-Year)

This site is designed to help students and families explore 2-year associate degree programs and understand how they can lead directly to careers or serve as a pathway to a 4-year college or university.

Associate degrees are affordable, flexible, and career-focused—making them a strong option for many students.

What Is an Associate Degree?

An associate degree is a 2-year college degree typically earned at a community college or technical college.

Most programs require 60 credit hours and can be completed in 2 years or less.

Common Types of Associate Degrees

• AA (Associate of Arts) – Often transfer-focused

• AS (Associate of Science) – STEM or health-related pathways

• AAS (Associate of Applied Science) – Career & technical programs designed for immediate employment

Why Choose a 2-Year Program?

• Lower cost than 4-year colleges

• Smaller class sizes

• Career-ready skills

• Flexible scheduling (day, night, online)

• Ability to transfer to a 4-year university

• Opportunity to explore careers before committing long-term

Career-Focused Associate Degree Programs

These programs are designed to prepare students for immediate employment after graduation.

Popular Career Pathways

• Nursing (RN)

• Radiologic Technology

• Dental Hygiene

• Physical Therapist Assistant

• Computer Information Systems

• Cybersecurity

• Welding

• HVAC

• Automotive Technology

• Construction Technology

• Culinary Arts

• Criminal Justice

• Early Childhood Education

Transfer Associate Degrees (2+2 Pathway)

Many students earn an associate degree and then transfer to a 4-year university.

How the 2+2 Pathway Works

1. Complete an AA or AS degree at a community college

2. Transfer credits to a 4-year university

3. Earn a bachelor’s degree in 2 additional years

Benefits of Transferring

• Save money on tuition

• Stay close to home

• Smaller classes for general education courses

Admissions Requirements

Requirements vary by college, but often include:

• High school diploma

• Placement testing (ACT, Accuplacer, or similar)

• Application for admission

• FAFSA (for financial aid)

Cost & Financial Aid

Typical Costs

• Tuition is usually significantly lower than 4-year universities

• Many programs qualify for financial aid and scholarships

Financial Aid Options

• FAFSA

• A+ Program (if eligible)

• Scholarships

• Grants

• Workforce development funding

Local & Regional 2-Year Colleges

• Jefferson College

• St. Louis Community College

• State Technical College of Missouri

• Mineral Area College

• East Central College

How to Get Started

1. Research programs of interest

2. Visit college websites

3. Attend campus tours or open houses

4. Apply to the college

5. Complete FAFSA

6. Meet with your school counselor

Helpful Resources

• College websites

• FAFSA: https://studentaid.gov

• Missouri A+ Program

• Career interest inventories

Need Help?

If you have questions about associate degree programs or how they fit into your postsecondary plan, please contact:

Andrea Reed
College & Career Counselor
Windsor High School