Associate Degree in Psychology Programs
(found programs from 197 schools)

Think of getting your associate degree in psychology as a first step on a branching path with many options. You won't be able to start treating patients with this degree - nor will you earn the big bucks - but earning your associate degree in psychology is an inexpensive and efficient way to explore the field and begin building your credentials. If you aren't ready to start college, aren't sure where you want to go in your career, and don't have to money for a big upfront tuition commitment, an associate degree might be the perfect choice.

What kinds of jobs will I qualify for with an associate degree in psychology?

The kinds of jobs you can get with just an associate degree don't pay very much, but they can open doors to your future. Many of your options will be close to volunteer or intern status, but the work experience and networking value far outweigh the pay. Look for jobs as a research assistant and openings with government agencies and non-profits. If you hope to eventually get a degree in early childhood psychology, seek out a job working with kids. Keep in mind that a degree in psychology doesn't lead in just one direction, however. Sure, you can study to become a full-fledged psychologist, but you can just as easily branch out into law, business, human resources, teaching, and medicine.

While you are getting a start in the field through education, you might as well get started networking, too. Consider joining professional organizations as a student and then participating in as many programs as you can. While the American Psychological Association is one of the biggest and best-known, many smaller organizations exist, often with a specific focus or specialty such as the Eating Disorders Association. You might find a grant, a mentor, or even a job.

What are associate degree programs in psychology like?

Getting into any associate degree program requires you to have a high school diploma or at least a GED. Once in, you'll study a mix of subjects. You'll take classes in English, math, science, and social studies in addition to courses in psychology. The degree-specific courses are all going to cover entry-level material. Programs vary from institution to institution, but most cover an overview of mental illnesses, how the mind works, and influences on behavior. The better programs also include practical classes that will help you succeed in further study in the field including basic research, medical terminology, and basic biology. An associate in arts with a major in psychology will have greater focus on humanities, while an associate in science with a major in psychology will focus more on math and science.

What are my options for continuing my education in psychology?

If you hope to pursue a career in the field of psychology, you will need a bachelor's degree, then a master's degree and possibly even a PhD or PsyD. Your associate degree is a good first step and could possibly help you qualify for a scholarship. It's important that you keep your end goals in mind when choosing a school. Here are some tips:

• Make sure you earn your associate degree in psychology from an accredited institution. Most associate degree programs are accredited by a regional accrediting body and online programs can be accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC).
• Think a step ahead. If you are planning on earning your bachelor's degree or even your master's, check to see if the classes you will take in your associate program will count toward these advanced degrees. You'll save both time and money.
• Networking is an important component of your associate degree. Find out who your professors will be. Ideally, they will be as involved in their professional community as they are in teaching you. See if the school has relationships with potential employers or with institutions of higher learning. Check if they have placement programs with employers.
• Financial assistance is also important. Check to see what grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs are available as you start the program.

What about pursuing an associate degree in psychology online?

Psychology associate degree programs are particularly well-suited for distance learning online. Very little of the course work requires hands-on, face-to-face contact. Once you have decided that this is the degree you want to pursue, check with the institutions you are considering to see if they offer an online alternative to campus learning. Many community colleges include an online component to most courses of study. Some offer entire degrees online. The State University System of New York's community college network, for example, offers an Associate of Arts in psychology degree online. The credits you earn directly transfer to the four year colleges in the system, saving you time and money. Some four year universities also offer online associate degrees. Florida Tech, for example, allows you to earn your Associate of Arts in applied psychology degree online and then continue on to a bachelor's degree.

Show me all the Associate Degree in Psychology programs in:

In addition to the campus based programs, there are numerous online programs available for many of the common Psychology degree types (Associate, Bachelors, Masters, PhD) and specialties. Please feel free to use the links on the left-hand side of this page to explore some of the online degree programs available. Thanks for visiting!