Do You Need an Associate Degree to Be a Specialist?

An associate's degree is a two-year degree typically granted by a community college. While it may be useful in some fields, it is not a strict requirement to become a specialist in a particular area. However, the necessity for an associate's degree can vary widely depending on the specific profession and the level of expertise required.

Associate's Degree and Professional Fields

Many professional fields exclusively require an associate's degree for entry-level positions or specialized roles. Examples include:

Bookkeeper-Accountant: Bookkeepers and accountants who work in entry-level positions may require an associate's degree, although a bachelor's degree can often provide a competitive edge. Lands Surveyor: Surveyors who use technical expertise may benefit from an associate's degree, though advanced positions typically require more education. Construction Technology and Management: These roles often require formal training and an associate's degree to ensure competency in construction processes and technologies.

These fields are generally accessible to individuals who have completed an associate's degree, providing a solid foundation for further career development.

Requirements for Specialists

Specialists, particularly those in highly technical or specialized fields, often require more advanced degrees and certifications. Here's a breakdown:

Trades Specialists

Tradespeople, such as electricians, mechanics, and plumbers, can become experts by:

Taking classes at a trade school Working as an apprentice under a master craftsman

This hands-on approach can lead to high levels of expertise without the need for an associate's degree.

Academic Fields

Academically inclined specialists, such as those in history, mathematics, science, or music, are often expected to have at least a bachelor's degree. However, as the educational level increases, so does the specialization:

Bachelor's Degree: An undergraduate degree in a broad field like history Master's Degree: Further specialization, such as Western European history Doctoral Degree (PhD): Hyper-specialization, such as medieval Western European history

The individual with a PhD tends to have a much deeper understanding and expertise in their field compared to someone with only a bachelor's degree.

Professional Certifications and Licenses

Some specialists in specific fields can achieve their level of expertise through professional certifications and licenses rather than an associate's degree. For instance,:

Nurses: Registered nurses (RNs) and practical nurses (LPNs) may require an associate's degree, although diploma or bachelor's degree programs are also common. Auto Technicians: Some require an associate's degree, especially if not trained through the military.

These certifications and licenses prove specific skills and competency in their respective fields, sometimes without the need for a college degree.

The View of Recruiters

Recruiters, like the one who earned an AA, BS, MS, and MBA, often view an AA degree as a stepping stone rather than a terminal degree. Most specialists consider a higher level of education more valuable.

While an AA degree can open doors in certain fields, it is generally not a requirement for becoming a specialist. However, it can provide a valuable introduction to a particular field and may be beneficial for entry-level positions.

Conclusion

In summary, while an associate's degree is not a prerequisite for becoming a specialist, it can be beneficial in many professional fields. The requirement varies widely depending on the industry and the depth of expertise needed. For those pursuing advanced roles, a higher degree, professional certifications, or specialized training through trade schools may be more suitable.