The associate degree has been a staple in higher education for about 150 years.

This collegiate credential originated in the United Kingdom and soon gained momentum in the United States at the turn of the 20th century. It was, for a time, the hot new thing in higher education. If longevity were the criteria, this two-year degree would be an educational Oak tree that symbolizes strength, stability, and wisdom. 

Despite enduring the test of time, the associate degree's history has taken twists and turns, only to be viewed as a bramble, a thorny brush with limited utility, a credential for jucos and community college, less prestigious than a traditional four-year degree. I've heard it described as the younger sibling you let tag along because your parents say so. The perception of this maligned credential needs redemption. 

Take notice this degree is making a subtle comeback. During my 15 years in higher education, I've observed a shift in perception. Colleagues, educators, students, and news articles reflect a linguistic change attached to the associate's degree with phrases such as "an attractive option," "an add-on," and "part of an educational sequencing plan." Generational proclivities are also a factor. Millennials in management are more concerned with portfolios and competencies. Although a four-year degree can provide a deeper level of education, associate degrees are valuable for those that understand its purpose. The Institute’s associate program can stand alone or complement the college's two baccalaureate degrees. 

Reason 1: The Synergy between Associates & Bachelors

Associate degrees can work in tandem with a bachelor's in a complementary fashion. By earning an associate, students can complete their general studies while earning an initial collegiate-level credential and have credits transferable into a four-year program. The popularity of this educational strategy, referred to as credential staking, is one reason the overall number of undergraduate degrees is rising. Graduates that would have only earned a bachelor now have two credentials. The goal is to bolster a resume, add upward mobility to employment, and increase earning potential. This trend reveals how college students view the two-degree as part of an educational sequencing plan. 

The utility of the Associate of Biblical Foundations is remarkable if you plan to pursue biblical training in stages. Graduates that want to continue their studies at a deeper level can transfer all 60 units of this associate degree into one of the Institute's baccalaureate programs. A traditional undergraduate can achieve an initial benchmark before continued studies. Non-traditional professionals with limited time can strategize to complete this credential full-time or part-time, returning for the bachelor's when and if a new season of life makes it feasible.      

Reason 2: Bolster Professional Capacity

Some two-year degree cans stand alone. Before choosing an associate, you should review its requirements and program outcomes. The preliminary work is worth the effort. An A.A. or A.S. degree is more general and provides foundational learning before further studies in the arts and sciences. In contrast, other two-year degrees contain more specialized content that equips students with knowledge and skills for occupational development. Historically, two-year nursing degrees worked this way. More recently, this has been true for some technological and medical fields. Educational add-on to increase capacity.

The Biblical Foundations degree is one such option. This sixty-unit program includes 36 Bible & Theology credits. The depth of study compares, and in some cases, goes beyond the level of Scriptural training in other Biblical Studies baccalaureate programs. This foundational study in the Scriptures equips those beginning their educational journey and can increase biblical knowledge for those who have already been serving in a ministerial capacity. Also, for those that plan to pursue a secular profession, having foundational biblical training is paramount to help them live out their faith in that context while applying God's wisdom and discernment to their jobs.    

Reason 3: Time and Cost Flexibility 

The complexity and circumstances of life impact our educational choices. Time and program costs are significant factors. Take, for example, the person in a professional field responsible for a family. If the program considers adult degree completion, you can finish sooner at less cost. Adult degree completion is typically more generous to award transfer and life experience credits. Again, the advice is to evaluate a program before applying so that you know the maximum number of transfer and life experience credits the college will accept.  

Schools that offer multiple terms allow you to take more courses part-time. Those unable to devote full-time hours to their schooling find quite the advantage with such flexibility. Semesters at the Institute for GOD have two terms with additional winter and summer intensive options available (seven total on the year). So, with incoming credits and taking a class per term, a part-time student positions themself to finish the program in two years. Before applying for a program, contact the school's registrar's office to request a preliminary transfer credit evaluation. Also, inquire about life experience credits and test out options. This service, provided by many colleges, can let you know how many credits will transfer into the program before admittance.      

In Closing

Writing about a college credential compellingly is no small task, and when the associate plays the protagonist, the challenge magnifies. Since you are still here, something piqued your interest. That means the associate degree may be the program for you! So, ask yourself the following questions: 

•  Is flexibility related to time and cost a consideration?

•  Do you want to sequence your education in stages? 

• Are you looking for a program this add to your professional capacity? 

Hopefully, this article brought a measure of redemption to the associates and provided helpful information as you consider a program.