Become a Teacher: Associate's Degrees in Education

All states require future teachers to earn a bachelor's degree before becoming full-time teachers. But earning your associate's degree in education first has many advantages.

The benefits of an associate's degree (A.A., or associate of arts degree) are very attractive:

• Getting an associate's degree in education will save you money

Attending a 4-year college can be expensive. Many students graduate from college with a bachelor's degree...and a lot of debt. If you start your college studies with an associate's degree in education, you'll actually save money.

You can pursue an associate's degree and take your first two years of required courses for a lower tuition than at a large college or university. These core courses will transfer to a new school if you decide to pursue a bachelor's degree and become a teacher. Earning an associate's degree can help you get a college education without accumulating excessive debt.

• Earn an associate's degree in education and keep your full-time job

Whether you are interested in earning an associate's degree in general studies, paraprofessional education or early childhood education, earning your degree from an accredited online institution will give you the flexibility to keep your current job while going to school. Some students have found they can actually increase their savings while earning their associate's degree in education.

• An Associate's Degree in Education requires less of a commitment

Unlike a bachelor's degree, an associate's degree in education takes only two years to finish. And associate degree programs let you earn a degree that can be used as a gateway into dozens of different bachelor degree options. Students often enroll in associate degree programs as a first step toward a better career, sometimes even before deciding what career to pursue. You can decide on your future course of study while you're getting your associate degree.

• Associate degree holders are attractive to 4-year institutions

Many 4-year colleges and universities find that students with an associate's degree in education are more mature and make better students than those who start college right out of high school. Students with associate degrees have proven time and time again that they are more focused and successful in their bachelor's studies.

• Associate degree graduates are more attractive to employers

Some careers in education require only a high school education. Teacher's aide (also known as paraprofessional), preschool teacher and childcare worker are three of the most popular ones.

However, many employers prefer to hire someone with a college degree. To become a teacher's aide or preschool teacher, an associate's degree in early childhood education is a great option. If you don't want to go to college for four years but still want to work in education, check below for associate degree options in education.

Get into Education with an Associate Degree

Expectations for the people who teach our children are on the rise. As a prospective teacher, you can climb on board and be a part of the improved teaching force that will make a difference in the lives of tomorrow's leaders today. An associate's degree in education may be the best place to start.