Best Online Associate Degrees in Alabama 2024

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Top Online Associate Degree Programs in Alabama

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  1. Troy University
  2. Faulkner University
  3. Amridge University
  4. Wallace State Community College
  5. Southern Union State Community College
  6. Shelton State Community College
  7. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
  8. Heritage Christian University
  1. Troy University
  2. Faulkner University
  3. Amridge University
  4. Wallace State Community College
  5. Shelton State Community College
  6. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
  7. Heritage Christian University
  8. Southern Union State Community College
  1. Heritage Christian University 100%
  2. Troy University 95%
  3. Faulkner University 82%
  1. Wallace State Community College 19 to 1
  2. Southern Union State Community College 19 to 1
  3. Shelton State Community College 17 to 1
  4. Troy University 16 to 1
  5. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College 16 to 1
  6. Faulkner University 13 to 1
  7. Amridge University 12 to 1
  8. Heritage Christian University 8 to 1
  1. Faulkner University $23,920
  2. Heritage Christian University $11,632
  3. Troy University $9,312
  4. Amridge University $9,000
  5. Wallace State Community College $3,750
  6. Shelton State Community College $3,750
  7. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College $3,750
  8. Southern Union State Community College $3,750
  1. Faulkner University $15,325
  2. Amridge University $10,800
  3. Troy University $8,550
  4. Heritage Christian University $4,482
  1. Heritage Christian University
  2. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
  3. Shelton State Community College
  4. Southern Union State Community College
  5. Wallace State Community College
  6. Amridge University
  7. Faulkner University
  8. Troy University
  1. Southern Union State Community College
  2. Heritage Christian University
  3. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
  4. Shelton State Community College
  5. Wallace State Community College
  6. Amridge University
  7. Faulkner University
  8. Troy University
  1. Faulkner University 82%
  2. Troy University 95%
  3. Heritage Christian University 100%
  1. Heritage Christian University 8 to 1
  2. Amridge University 12 to 1
  3. Faulkner University 13 to 1
  4. Troy University 16 to 1
  5. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College 16 to 1
  6. Shelton State Community College 17 to 1
  7. Wallace State Community College 19 to 1
  8. Southern Union State Community College 19 to 1
  1. Wallace State Community College $3,750
  2. Shelton State Community College $3,750
  3. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College $3,750
  4. Southern Union State Community College $3,750
  5. Amridge University $9,000
  6. Troy University $9,312
  7. Heritage Christian University $11,632
  8. Faulkner University $23,920
  1. Heritage Christian University $4,482
  2. Troy University $8,550
  3. Amridge University $10,800
  4. Faulkner University $15,325

Key Takeaways

  • Earning an associate degree is an affordable way to get started on your college education. The typical associate degree will take about two years to complete.

  • Many community colleges and two-year schools in Alabama offer both traditional and online degree programs for students pursuing their associate degree in a wide variety of disciplines.

  • Students who earn their online associate degree in their state of residence are typically eligible for in-state discount rates. If you are a resident of Alabama, finding an online associate degree here at home will typically be the most affordable way to begin your higher education.

Featured Programs

Colleges and Universities in Alabama

Online students and traditional students alike have a lot of options in the state of Alabama. The 54 colleges and universities in Alabama allow students to pursue associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in many fields all over the state, as well as through a variety of excellent online degree programs. Some of the most notable degree areas include law, nursing, biology, history, engineering, and religious studies.

Students in Alabama can study any of these subjects either online or through online courses. If you’re looking for educational flexible education, Alabama has over 20 colleges and universities offering online degree programs.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

Students hoping to obtain a four-year degree at a larger university can attend one of the two largest - as well as rivalry - schools, the University of Alabama and Auburn University. Both schools’ tuition is about $11,000, though the University of Alabama’s student population, at nearly 36,000 students, is larger than Auburn’s.

Students also have the option of attending one of Alabama’s 18 private higher education institutes, many of which have religious affiliations. Tuition costs vary widely, from $4,000 per year to $36,000 per year. Student populations also vary widely, from less than 100 students to as many as 15,000 students.

Additionally, students who need more flexibility can take advantage of the satellite campuses, like at the University of North Alabama. Alabama also has a larger number of online college offerings. With 70 online degree programs offered at the University of Alabama alone, in-state residents have a lot of degree options, both for a traditional and online education.

For die-hard football fans and lovers of sweet tea, obtaining a higher education degree in Alabama can seem like an obvious choice. The Yellowhammer State, however, is also home to a unique mixture of coastal, mountainous, and swamp environments, making it a great choice for students who love soaking up the outdoors.

And if you’re looking for a mix of the campus experience and online education, many schools in Alabama have hybrid programs. With a hybrid program, you can take both online courses and classes on campus.


What are Alabama’s Colleges & Universities?


Alabama’s Best Overall

What is an Associate Degree?

An associate degree is a two-year degree that can be earned at state community colleges, vocational schools, and most accredited colleges and universities.

What will I study with an associate degree?

The associate degree provides an introductory level college education. You will usually take an array of liberal arts or humanities courses along with introductory level courses in a specific subject area. Most associate degree programs are available to both on campus students and online students.

Why get an associate degree?

There are several good reasons to get an associate degree. An associate degree is an affordable and accessible way to get a college education while improving your earning potential. The associate degree is popular both among students looking for entry-level work in their field, and for those who are already working.

The online degree is particularly popular at the associate level because so many students must balance work responsibilities and studies. Online courses and complete online programs make it possible for students to earn associate credits and degrees without disrupting daily work responsibilities.

The associate is also a far more affordable and accessible alternative to earning a bachelor’s degree. The associate degree takes about half as long to earn as a bachelor’s degree. Associate students need 60 credits to graduate, versus the 120 credits needed for a bachelor’s degree. And many state community colleges offer low tuition rates.

Can I get a job with an associate degree?

You can get an entry-level job in your field with an associate degree. Many students will use the associate degree as a way to get relevant job training before entering the job market. In fact, many associates will pursue entry level work in their field while earning a bachelor’s degree through online education.

Should I get an associate degree before pursuing a bachelor’s degree?

You may want to get an associate degree first to save money, or improve your admission chances, before getting a bachelor’s degree. The associate degree is a popular stepping stone for students who will seek a bachelor’s degree. When you earn an associate degree from an accredited state community college, you can usually transfer your credits toward your bachelor’s degree program.

Can I get an online degree at the associate level?

You can definitely get an online degree at the associate level. A growing number of online colleges offer high-quality associate-level online courses and complete online programs. Online students will typically take the same courses and curricula as on campus students.

Are associate degrees from online colleges respected?

Online degrees at the associate level are respected as long as these online degrees come from accredited community colleges or two-year schools. Regional accreditation is important when it comes to online colleges. If you plan to go into a bachelor’s degree program at a regionally accredited school, you must earn your online degree from a regionally accredited associate degree program.

If you need more answers to frequently asked questions about online degrees, we can help.

Best Online Associate Degree Programs in Alabama
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Best Online Associate Degrees in Alabama 2023

  1. #1

    Troy University

    Troy , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1050/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Troy University

    Cost of Degree: $9,312
    Expenses: $13,665
    Starting Salary: $41,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    AS in General Education
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  2. #3

    Amridge University

    Montgomery , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Amridge University

    Cost of Degree: $9,950
    Starting Salary: $47,600

    Online Associate Degrees

    AA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in Human Resource Leadership
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in Information Systems Management
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in Web Development
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in Human Development
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in Ministry/Bible
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
  3. Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for degree at Wallace State Community College

    Cost of Degree: $4,920
    Expenses: $15,620
    Starting Salary: $34,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    AAS in Business Education and Office Administration
    • Required Credits: 67
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AAS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 67
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AAS in Transportation Management
    • Required Credits: 67
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    AAS in Child Development
    • Required Credits: 67
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
  4. Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Graduation

    24%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at Southern Union State Community College

    Cost of Degree: $4,920
    Expenses: $9,200
    Starting Salary: $35,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    AS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 60-64
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  5. Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for degree at Shelton State Community College

    Cost of Degree: $4,980
    Starting Salary: $31,100

    Online Associate Degrees

    AAS in Business Office Management and Technology

    Concentrations

    • Bookkeeping/Accounting
    • Information Processing
    • Legal Secretary
    • Medical Records
    • Paralegal
    • Required Credits: 70-71
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    AAS in Management and Supervision

    Concentrations

    • General Business
    • Required Credits: 62-63
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  6. Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Graduation

    34%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College

    Cost of Degree: $4,920
    Expenses: $10,367
    Starting Salary: $32,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    Associate of Arts
    • Required Credits: 60-70
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Science
    • Required Credits: 60-70
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online

Alabama is just one of many states offering excellent online associate’s degrees. To check out our rankings, look into the best online associate’s degrees in Arkansas, California, Arizona, and more!

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Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?

If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.

In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).

While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Online College-Bound Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

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