Recent articles and studies note major trends in education that are taking shape in 2021. The top online Associate’s Degrees in Education in this list will prepare entry-level educators to work in pre-K-12 settings, or to go on to earn higher degrees. These excellent online degrees will provide the foundation of educational theory and practice. These degrees also equip entry-level educators to integrate new trends such as the integration of technology, “gamification” of teaching, and other key areas of technology.
Those who are pursuing careers as educators should consider one of these outstanding distance education, two-year degrees. These degrees provide students opportunities to teach in pre-K-12 classroom settings as well as quality coursework. Find a perfect match with OnlineSchoolsCenter.com!
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Check this out: Best Concentrations in Education and our Education Degree and Career Guide
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Best Online Schools for Associates in Education
METHODOLOGY: This list was researched and built according to criteria that were outlined by the OnlineSchoolsCenter.com writers. The requirements for inclusion on the list were as follows:
- Offers an Associate of Arts, Science, or Applied Science in Education or an applicable alternative in Education,
- A program with 100% online availability,
- Retention rate no lower than 50%,
- Exquisite opportunities in coursework and real-world experiences related to the field of Education,
- Excellent faculty members and staff available for assistance,
- Displays proper accreditation,
- Offers programs that satisfy transfer credits to bachelor’s degree programs.
For more information, check our Methodology page.
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NORTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION – ELEMENTARY PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The Northeast Community College online Associate in Education – Elementary includes many real-world experiences in which students work directly with teachers and instructors in the school setting. The coursework includes general education courses, as well as those in Elementary Education. Students develop impressive portfolios to use as supplements to their college and job applications going forward. NCC works closely with other schools in the Norfolk area and around Nebraska, so those in the state have excellent opportunities to continue their education at a school that is guaranteed to accept their transfer credits.
Campus Location: Norfolk, NE
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Elementary School Art
- Child and Adolescent Psychology
- Elementary School Music
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 65%
Graduation Rate: 50.1%
LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION – ELEMENTARY PROGRAM
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BRENAU UNIVERSITY
ONLINE (AAECE) ELEMENTARY EDUCATION ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The Associate of Arts in Elementary Education online from Brenau University provides students with the necessary credit hours in education and liberal arts coursework to get them into prominent bachelor’s degrees. The curriculum includes perspectives of scientific analysis, creative problem solving, communication and language fluency, and world understanding. Students engage online programs at an institution that has been educating future teachers since 1878! This online school also offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, into which graduates of the AA program can seamlessly enter.
Campus Location: Gainesville, FL
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Sampling of Coursework:
- Science Concepts
- Introduction to Multicultural Education
- Mathematics Concepts for Teachers
Acceptance Rate: 66.1%
Retention Rate: 65%
Graduation Rate: 35%
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRENAU UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ELEMENTARY EDUCATION ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE PROGRAM
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LEHIGH CARBON COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ONLINE ASSOCIATE’S DEGREES IN EDUCATION
Program Standouts:
The Education Associate’s Degree at this online school lays an excellent foundation for future studies in a Bachelor’s Degree, as well as teacher certifications in middle and secondary schools in various states throughout the country. Graduates have the skill and understanding to analyze family structures and communications, identify individual learning patterns, and implement successful education environments and curricula. Lehigh Carbon Community College Students work closely with Education Advisors to ensure that they are pursuing the coursework that satisfies their needs. There are also LCCC associate’s majors in the topic of Special Education, for those who would rather work with students with behavioral and mental disabilities.
Campus Location: Schnecksville, PA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Program Options:
- Education
- Paraprofessional/Special Education
- Special Education
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 24.2%
LEARN MORE ABOUT LEHIGH CARBON COMMUNITY COLLEGE ONLINE ASSOCIATE’S DEGREES IN EDUCATION
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ROWAN COLLEGE AT BURLINGTON COUNTY
ONLINE AS OR AA IN EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The Department of Education at Rowan College at Burlington County is an incredibly nurturing and supportive online program that trains students for entry-level positions in schools and clinics, as well as for their four-year baccalaureate degree. The coursework is well-suited for those who want to become teachers, teachers’ assistants, paraprofessionals, or substitute teachers. There is a strong emphasis on theory, practice, and diversity, as well as how to communicate with individuals and an entire classroom. The coursework also explores the historical and philosophical trends in education, as well as the instructive and psychological aspects of the major.
Campus Location: Pemberton, NJ
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Educational Psychology
- Written and Oral Communications
- Diversity
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 29.8%
LEARN MORE ABOUT ROWAN COLLEGE AT BURLINGTON COUNTY’S ONLINE AS OR AA IN EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAM
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SOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE
ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Program Standouts:
The online Associate in Education and the Associate in Teaching Degree Programs at South Texas College include numerous curricula tracks, specialization courses, and concentration options. Distance education students will explore the areas of teaching and education to discover the areas that best match their individual pursuits, such as the grade level at which they would like to instruct. Students engage in field experiences, and observations that are intended to cement concepts and principles learned in the classroom. The Education Department strongly recommends that students intending on majoring in this field contact them for recommended degree plans that will nurture their approach.
Campus Location: McAllen, TX
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Program Options:
- Education – 4-8 Generalist
- Education – EC-6 Generalist
- Education – Grades 8-12
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 26.9%
LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION PROGRAMS
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LONE STAR COLLEGE
ONLINE A.A. IN TEACHING DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
Lone Star College’s online Associate in Education is an excellent start for students who are seeking teacher certification in Texas as well as other states. The curriculum includes general education and core requirements that are satisfactory for transfer to most online four-year institutions of higher education, and many students go on to major in History, Speech, Education, Music, Criminal Justice, and Business. Online students in this program also engage in experiential learning opportunities outside of the virtual classroom. The 2+2 program at LSC allows students to complete the two years of their associate degree as well as two years at a college or university of their choice, with the help of advisors and counselors.
Campus Location: Houston, TX
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Technical Communications
- Life and Physical Sciences
- Public Speaking or Interpersonal Communication
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 18%
LEARN MORE ABOUT LONE STAR COLLEGE’S ONLINE A.A. IN TEACHING DEGREE PROGRAM
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HAGERSTOWN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ONLINE A.S. IN EDUCATION
Program Standouts:
Hagerstown Community College maintains numerous online programs in Education, Early Childhood Education, and Child Care, including the Associate in Education Degree. This curriculum includes practical and theoretical approaches to education, classroom design, and communication, as well as real-world experiences that foster invaluable skills. The coursework is well-suited for continuing one’s learning in a Bachelor’s degree at another online college or university. In fact, the program is specifically designed with such a goal in mind. General Education requirements and core coursework will give students all of the academic foundation necessary for success in the future.
Campus Location: Hagerstown, MD
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Biological/Physical Science
- Foundations of Early Childhood Education
- Educational Psychology
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 38.9%
LEARN MORE ABOUT HAGERSTOWN COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE A.S. IN EDUCATION
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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION
Program Standouts:
The Liberty University online Associate in Education (Non-Licensure) program is a 60 credit curriculum, of which students may transfer up to 75% from another online or on-campus institution. Students typically finish this degree in about a year-and-a-half with classes that are completed over 8-week accelerated terms. This array of coursework is an excellent entry into students’ education careers as it allows them to explore a wide variety of topics, pursuits, and issues in the field, which therefore narrows their focus into specific areas of future study. Liberty University is an Evangelical Christian school where students gain an educational perspective that includes the principles and teachings of Christ.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Principles of Education
- Learning Theory and Portfolio Development
- Classroom Management
Acceptance Rate: 29.8%
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 42.6%
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION
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RICHMOND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ONLINE AA IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
Program Standouts:
This program is offered online through Richmond Community College in partnership with the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Students enrolled in this online Associate Degree in Elementary Education have the opportunity to transfer applicable general education credits and conversely shorten the length of the program. There are a considerable number of elective options available in this curriculum that help students direct their academic and career goals in a personalized way. Upon graduating, students can make a seamless transfer into the UNCP Bachelor in Elementary Education online.
Campus Location: Laurinburg, NC
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Writing and Inquiry
- Writing/Research in Disciplines
- Art Appreciation
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 63%
Graduation Rate: 31.1%
LEARN MORE ABOUT RICHMOND COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
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SOUTHWESTERN ASSEMBLIES OF GOD UNIVERSITY
ONLINE ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN EDUCATION
Program Standouts:
This online Associate Degree in Education provides a structure that approaches traditional educational techniques as well as modern practices. The curriculum includes coursework in instructional technology, psychology, child and adolescent growth and development, and more. Southwestern Assemblies of God University has recently made the executive decision to lower the tuition rate by $76, which is a 13% cut, and for a 2-year degree students are saving almost $5,000! Graduates from this online program have gone on to work as teachers, professors, administrators, counselors, librarians, and more in various educational and high school settings.
Campus Location: Waxahachie, TX
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Fundamentals of Speech Communication
- Instructional Technology
- Developmental Psychology
- Theories and Principles of Learning
Acceptance Rate: 27.9%
Retention Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 55.8%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SOUTHWESTERN ASSEMBLIES OF GOD UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN EDUCATION
THE ENDPOINT
If it is your dream to become a teacher and change the lives of future students forever, it will be necessary to start your educational career in order to become certified. An Associate in Education, or its equivalent, is a great start to achieving this dream, as it allows you to explore some introductory concepts and topics that may point you in a specific area of interest, such as Elementary Music, Physical Education, Art, etc. With an AA/AS/AAS in Education, you will not only be ready to take on entry-level positions of employment in the teaching field, but you will also be able to transfer your credits to a four-year institution and earn your bachelor’s degree, which would put you much closer to gaining certification and start work as an actual teacher!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I take all of my general education credits in an Associate’s Degree?
Most likely not. It may require some more work to finish your gen. ed. credits in your bachelor’s degree, but the amount will be significantly reduced! However, you will be much freer to focus on core coursework and gaining more real-world learning experiences. You should also make sure that your credits are all transferrable to the university or college of your choice.
If I start my Associate in Education, does that mean that I am stuck in this major for my bachelor’s degree?
Well, you are always free to change your major, but it will just extend the amount of time you spend in college. If you think that you might change your mind, it might be better to enter into an Associate of General Studies or Liberal Arts, which would also allow you to choose an Education major later on in your bachelor’s degree. Or you can also double major, as well, but that would also require more dedication, responsibility, and commitment.
Does an Education degree mean that I will only be working with elementary school and high school students?
It is most likely that these are the educational environments that you will be working with a major in Education or Elementary Education. However, if it is your goal to work at the college level eventually, it is important to communicate such pursuits to your advisors and professors, as they will help you get pointed in the right direction.