Online Associates Degree in Education Programs

This article discusses associates degree in education programs online. There are many advantages associated with pursuing an associate degree in education.

For teachers and other professionals in the education industry, it allows them to pursue a degree program that is focused and beneficial to their career. It is a practical program that does not involve too much time. One can study as they continue working on their career. There are many ways through which one can study a degree in associate education. There are different programs designed to meet the needs of different students. Those who want to work and study at the same time can consider joining online, part time or long distance programs. Those who are just starting out in a teaching career can consider joining a full time program. There are different ways that one can develop their teaching career. It is possible to earn an associate degree before pursuing a Bachelors program in education. One can consider getting training through an associate program if they are not ready to go through the four-year course associated with a Bachelors degree.

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Selected Universities with Online Associates Degree in Education Programs

University of Phoenix

• AA in Paraprofessional Education
• Associate of Arts in Elementary Education

Kaplan University

• Associate of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies/Early Childhood Development
  

Post University

• A.S. in Early Childhood Education

Education Degree Preparation and Training

It can be useful for those who intend to join the education profession but cannot afford the money needed to pursue a Bachelors program. One can consider pursuing the course to learn the basic courses required to launch a teaching career. It takes two years to complete the program. Depending on the career plans of an individual, they can consider transferring their core courses to another institution to study a Bachelors degree in Education later on.

The associates degree in education program covers a wide range of courses that are beneficial to a teaching professional. One can earn the required skills and knowledge needed in general studies, paraprofessional education, and early childhood education among others. All the courses provided by the program are beneficial and a prerequisite in enabling one become an exemplary teacher.

Usually the course duration is two years. However this might vary slightly depending on an institution. The time taken to complete the course material and to qualify as a teacher makes it a beneficial course. However it is important to understand and gain the knowledge and skills provided by the program. Courses may include child development theories, educational psychology, classroom management, and teaching pedagogy.

Education and Teaching Careers

Another benefit of pursuing an associates degree in education is that it makes it easier to join accredited institutions for higher learning. Colleges and universities find professionals with a degree in associate education more mature than first time students fresh from high school. This opens a lot of opportunities for students with such qualifications as they can apply to a university or college of their choice. Professionals with an associate degree are also more attractive to employers.

Any professional in the teaching industry can pursue an associate degree in education. A qualification in the program helps to open many opportunities to an individual. It is possible to join other degrees program if one has successfully qualified in this type of program. One is sure to get better opportunities, salary package and career development by pursuing the degree.

With an online associate's degree in education, you can work in Head Start programs, day care, and child care services. You can also work as an elementary school paraprofessional, or become a teacher aide or teacher assistant.

Expected Salary and Projected Career Growth

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, teachers' assistants and teachers assistants held over a million jobs in 2004. Those teacher aids with knowledge of special needs or ESL are also in demand. The median annual income for teachers' aids was close to $20,000 in 2004. However to practice in these positions, an associates degree in education may be required or recommended.

Online associates degree in education programs and education bachelor degree programs