Best Online Associate Degrees in New Mexico 2025
Top Online Associate Degree Programs in New Mexico in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or last ground for the 2025 school year.
There are no changes to our ranking of the best online associate degree programs in New Mexico for 2025.
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.
Featured Programs
Best Online Associate Degrees in New Mexico
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in New Mexico 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in New Mexico 2025 #2 Best Colleges in New Mexico 2024
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
51%
Student body
16K
Median SAT/ACT
1020/20
Career Outlook for degree at New Mexico State University
Cost of Degree: $8,147Expenses: $17,964Starting Salary: $40,300Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryStart shaping your future as you study for an online associate degree at New Mexico State University. They welcome all students and professors who all have a common goal, which is to make a difference in society. Providing access to education is a priority for this minority-serving institution.
What we love about New Mexico State University:
All the programs at New Mexico State University come with affordable pricing. On a national level, the university has been known for its efforts in launching innovative research initiatives. Graduates from their programs finish with elevated research skills and are career-ready in their respective industries.
New Mexico State University is ideal for students who:
Want to attend a university with more research initiatives.
New Mexico State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a more modern school campus.
Online Associate Degrees
AAS in Computer Information and Technology
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Arts
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Early Childhood Education
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Education
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Pre-Business
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Public Health
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Science
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Social Services
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Accounting/Bookkeeping
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Applied Business
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Creative Media Design
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Electronic Publishing
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in General Management
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Health Information Technology
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Marketing
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Paralegal Studies
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #4 Best Small Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #5 Best Colleges in New Mexico 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in New Mexico 2024
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
31%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Western New Mexico University
Cost of Degree: $7,868Expenses: $16,828Starting Salary: $35,800Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryPerfect for online learning, Western New Mexico University comes with 3,500 students who study online. The university is a Hispanic-serving institution, ready to help communities and improve their lives. From accounting to zoology, you can find a field of study that matches your personal and career goals.
What we love about Western New Mexico University:
Aside from its popular academic offerings, Western New Mexico University is famous for its campus and location. Students can do a lot of student activities on campus. They have diverse kinds of sports and organizations for students to join.
Western New Mexico University is ideal for students who:
Want to attend a Hispanic-serving university.
Western New Mexico University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer to attend less rigorous classes.
Online Associate Degrees
AS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AA in Early Childhood Education and Family Support
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AA in Human Services
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$2K
Graduation
28%
Student body
28K
Career Outlook for degree at Central New Mexico Community College
Cost of Degree: $1,934Starting Salary: $34,000Central New Mexico Community College is offering premier education but with affordable tuition fees. Get ready to acquire skills that will prepare you for the modern workplace through their online programs.
What we love about Central New Mexico Community College:
There are career-technical programs offered at Central New Mexico Community College, in which students can gain the modern skills that are in demand by employers today. The community college is focused on bettering lives and building communities.
Central New Mexico Community College is ideal for students who:
Want to develop the skills that are in demand for the modern workforce.
Central New Mexico Community College might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer to attend a college that offers more college experience.
Online Associate Degrees
AA in Business
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
AA in Criminology
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$2K
Graduation
41%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Clovis Community College
Cost of Degree: $1,736Starting Salary: $32,300Attend a diverse public community college when you enroll at Clovis Community College. They prioritize student success and ensure that all students thrive through their diverse program offerings.
What we love about Clovis Community College:
Comprehensive student support services are being offered at Clovis Community College. Their programs are designed with core values in place, such as accountability, generosity, and integrity.
Clovis Community College is ideal for students who:
Want to attend a college that is focused on student success and academic excellence.
Clovis Community College might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer to attend a college with more research opportunities.
Online Associate Degrees
AAS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 62-63
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Computer Information Systems
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Information Systems and Technology
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
Associate of General Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
AS in Behavioral Science
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$3K
Graduation
20%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at New Mexico State University Alamogordo
Cost of Degree: $3,000Starting Salary: $40,300Whether you’re looking for a career or technical online associate degree, the New Mexico State University Alamogordo offers more than 40 programs to choose from. They cater to a diverse community and ensure student success.
What we love about New Mexico State University Alamogordo:
The state university aims to serve diverse communities. Their core values include globalization, innovation, excellence, integrity, and diversity. Mutual respect among all staff, faculty, and students is being prioritized in their institution.
New Mexico State University Alamogordo is ideal for students who:
Want to attend a diverse state university.
New Mexico State University Alamogordo might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer to attend a university with more rigorous programs.
Online Associate Degrees
AAS in Business Management
Concentrations
- Accounting
- General Management
- Marketing
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
AAS in Paralegal Studies
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Pre-Business
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Arts
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Associate of Science
- Required Credits: 60-66
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$2K
Graduation
19%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Luna Community College
Cost of Degree: $1,634Starting Salary: $33,000Offering smaller-sized classes, Luna Community College creates a bigger impact on a student’s educational experience. The school is dedicated to academic excellence by ensuring quality in its curricula and teaching methods.
What we love about Luna Community College:
Luna Community College aims to provide integrated learning experiences to all its students. They develop future leaders of industries who are innovative and forward-thinkers.
Luna Community College is ideal for students who:
Want to be a part of a collaborative community.
Luna Community College might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer to attend a bigger college.
Online Associate Degrees
AAS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
New Mexico 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 Indiana, New Hampshire, Mississippi, and more!
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.
