Five Good Reasons to Complete That Associate's Degree

I read an interesting article today, which I'd like to share. As a faculty member, I have often been asked whether the associate's degree is worth the effort. I've always held my own belief that an associate's benefits people, but this article really struck me as a hitting all of the ideas I have considered. Thanks to the League for Innovation and Jeffrey Ross, here are five really good reasons why students should complete that associate’s degree before moving on (or up):

Program Articulation. Most community colleges, including CSM, have articulation agreements with local universities that allow associate’s degree completers to transfer articulated courses and programs.

Terminal Work Force Program Completion. The career benefits of an associate's degree for people in nursing, computer, and hundreds of fields should not be overlooked, even for individuals who hold baccalaureate or graduate degrees in other academic fields.

A Rung on the Ladder to Personal Success. An associate's degree can be a great milepost of academic success. By completing an associate’s degree, a student can take pride in accomplishment and envision a future filled with other academic successes.

Future Career Plans. This is probably not mentioned often, but for students who may some day consider working at a community college, the attainment of an associate’s degree might help land a job at such an institution.

Immediate Career Advancement. An associate’s degree is a college degree and is often highly regarded by employers; impacts on lifelong earnings have also been well-documented.

Other reasons to complete that associate's degree? Share them by commenting using the link below.