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The 7 Best Online Associates in Economics

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Economics is an important aspect of the field of business and finance. Emerging companies and growing cities rely on economists for various studies, modeling, and planning. Aside from the corporate world, economics is also present in the academe, law firms, and research centers.

Best Online Associates in Economics - fact

For Economics associate degree holders, an option is to pursue educational advancement through an online bachelor program. Undergraduate students can perhaps move further up with an advanced degree or graduate study in the field.

Pursuing Economics also opens the gateway to a multitude of career options—and earning an associate degree gives you a head start!


Would you like more information? The Best Online Associates in Finance


Methodology

Students with an Economics major typically need to take courses from different fields to prepare them for various career paths. Most online economics programs cover a wide range of courses without compromising their quality of instruction.

We picked the country’s top Associate in Economics degrees that blend flexibility and convenience options with quality instruction. Each program on our list stands out with these features:

  • Delivered 100% online or as a hybrid associate program,
  • Similar to traditional program coursework, it focuses on the core Economics courses, featuring supply chain management, business economics, global and environmental sustainability, and other concepts that come in handy as students transition into the bachelor’s degree program,
  • Utilizes an LMS (Learning Management System) with features that make online learning a breeze, including convenient access to the online associate program coursework and reliable technical assistance or support,
  • Taught by seasoned Economics professors who have established careers relevant to the discipline,
  • Offers financial aid options through federal student aid and scholarships,
  • Received proper accreditation from relevant academic agencies that have set the standard of online and in-person instruction for associate degree programs, including Economics,
  • Recognized by associations and groups that seek to advance Economics as a discipline and celebrate the work of economists and experts in the field,
  • Positive feedback and reviews from Economics majors and alumni.

Please read our Methodology page for more information about our associate program ranking process.


Best Online Associates in Economics Degree Programs

Foothill College

Foothill College

Online Associate of Arts in Economics

Offering over 100 online degree programs, Foothill College is one of the country’s leading providers of distance education. Its AA Economics is worth noting since it centers on enhancing your logic and economic reasoning to become effective future decision-makers in business.

Requiring a high school diploma primarily, the 90-credit online Economics degree program focuses on both macroeconomics and microeconomics alongside other topics like:

  • Political Economy
  • Statistics
  • Research Methods and Designs
  • Composition
  • International Economics and Business

With this fully online program, you’ll be able to pursue different industries such as politics, the academe, or even law. You may also pursue a Bachelor’s in Economics or a Master’s in Business Administration. 

Did You Know?

Foothill College provides a wide range of resources for its online students. Some online services include tutoring, webinars, and mental health services. Plus, students may request to borrow a laptop or housing assistance.


West Valley College

West Valley College

Online Associate of Arts in Economics

If you’re planning to build a career in economics, West Valley College may be one of your best options. The college offers an Associate’s Degree in Economics that will expose you to various economic models and real-world markets.

Learn different economic policies and improve your analytical skills through courses like:

  • Principles of Microeconomics
  • Principles of Macroeconomics
  • Comparative Governments
  • Sociology
  • International Relations

Aside from the regular associate’s degree, West Valley also offers an Associate’s Degree for Transfer in Economics. This is perfect if you plan to continue your education within the California State University system.

Did You Know?

West Valley College offers a Student Success Ambassador program where interested students may join to participate in various activities. Here, you’ll be able to represent the school during campus tours, recruitment, and student events.


Liberty University Online

Liberty University Online

Online Associate in philosophy, politics, and economics (PPE)

Liberty University Online has been a trusted distance-learning institution since the 1980s. It offers a range of degrees, from online associate to undergraduate and master’s degrees. Go beyond economics through an Associate Degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics.

Aside from learning economic theories, you’ll also touch on philosophical concepts and be exposed to various political principles. Cover a diverse mix of courses, including:

  • Modern Political and Economic Ideas
  • Classical Economics
  • Philosophy & Contemporary Ideas
  • Critical Thinking
  • Principles of Macroeconomics

Learn from experts in business and economics and be exposed to real-world practices in the comfort of your home. With this degree, you’ll be able to work in law and public policy or even pursue a teaching career. 

Did You Know?

LU Online offers an affordable way to complete your online associate degree. Aside from affordable tuition, the university offers various funding options like federal state aid, scholarships, and military benefits. Plus, electronic books are provided free of charge!


John Wood Community College

John Wood Community College

Online Associate of Arts In Economics

John Wood Community College stays true to its mission of providing accessible education by offering numerous online degree programs. If you’re passionate about economics, the Associate in Economics degree is a great program to enroll in.

With this online program, you’ll be able to acquire the right skills to analyze a wide range of economic data and create helpful forecasts. On top of the Economics courses, you’ll also cover general education topics such as:

  • Social Science
  • Computer Literacy
  • Humanities
  • Rhetoric and Composition
  • Life Science

Completing this economics degree will help you land roles like financial analyst, market researcher, or statistician. As a fully online program, all classes and submissions will be made through Canvas, the college’s learning platform.

Did You Know?

John Wood is home to a variety of student organizations and clubs. You may join the Theatre Guild or the Blazerettes Dance Team if you’re all for entertainment. Similarly, student leaders may join the Student Government Association or the College Republicans.


Tyler Junior College

Tyler Junior College

Online Associate of Arts in Economics

Tyler Junior College has produced successful graduates through its comprehensive curriculums and superior teaching strategy. With more than 115 degree programs, the Associate in Economics online program is a wise choice for those interested in learning more about the global economy from the comfort of their home.

Centered on academic growth, this economics program covers 60 credits, 16 of which are major courses. Enroll in courses such as:

  • Calculus for Business & Social Sciences
  • Sociology
  • Principles of Microeconomics
  • Elementary Statistical Methods
  • Federal Government

The program also centers on personal growth, incorporating communication and creative arts courses to produce well-rounded graduates. Additionally, virtual learners can access online IT help, academic advising, and library services anytime.

Did You Know?

To help lighten the financial burden of college, Tyler Junior offers an installment payment option to qualified students. With this, you may pay tuition in different terms, so you don’t have to pay right away. 


City College of San Francisco

City College of San Francisco

Online Associate of Arts in Economics

The City College of San Francisco offers various pathways for its prospective students. Here, you may choose from nine academic communities and various learning modes. The school’s Economics Associate degree is known for providing a fully online option that’s convenient and accessible.

With this online program, you’ll be able to effectively analyze economic data, communicate results, and report comprehensive evaluations. This is made possible through courses like:

  • Critical Thinking
  • Principles of Microeconomics
  • Oral Communication
  • Calculus
  • Humanities

Take on roles in corporate businesses, government positions, or even international relations. After completing the 64-credit program, you’ll also qualify to transfer to the California State Universities or the university of your choice.

Did You Know?

The City College of San Francisco believes that learning doesn’t stop with textbook education. That’s why it offers interest-based classes to enrolled and adult learners outside their chosen curriculum. Here, you’ll have the chance to find a new hobby, like gardening or aerobics, learn a new language, or pursue the arts.


College of Southern Idaho

College of Southern Idaho

Online Associate of Arts concentration in Economics

College of Southern Idaho features various degree options for interested learners. Its Economics Associate degree program, which is offered online, is one of the best in the country, establishing a good foundation in macro and microeconomics. Students may choose between a business or social science concentration, depending on their academic needs.

Students enrolled will be able to examine the relationship between the supply and demand of goods and the interpretation of economic data. Take up courses such as:

  • Principles of Microeconomics
  • Writing and Rhetoric
  • Financial Accounting
  • Business Statistics for Decision-Making
  • Information Science and Data Management

At Southern Idaho, economics students can gain sufficient knowledge and skills ideal for roles like analysts or brokers. Through the school’s online learning option, students may take up synchronous discussions through video conferencing or asynchronous classes using its learning platform.

Did You Know?

If you want to save time with your studies, you may work on a college degree before graduating High School. This is possible through CSI’s Dual Credit program. This program allows you to take college courses in advance, saving time and tuition.


Check this out: The Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Economics Degree Programs


Frequently Asked Questions

How do you apply for an Associate degree in Economics?

While admission requirements vary per academic institution, general ones apply to a majority. Initially, filling out the school’s application form and paying initial fees for testing or processing is important. Alongside the completed forms, some schools require a copy of your transcripts, application letter, and ACT or SAT scores. You’ll also need to satisfy GPA requirements, which differ for every university.

What is the average time to complete an Economics Bachelor’s degree online?

Students taking the economics program full-time may graduate in as fast as two years. On the other hand, part-time online learners may take at least two years to finish, depending on the number of credits taken every semester. Some universities cap the maximum number of years to finish the degree, with some requiring completion in five years.

Is an online Associate more expensive than studying in-campus?

Distance learning has many benefits, including saving on your finances. Online programs cost $100 to $1,100 per credit hour, while tuition fees for private colleges may cost around $1,500 per credit hour. Aside from tuition being cheaper for online programs, you’ll also save miscellaneous expenses studying at home, like gas, housing, and book fees. 

What’s in store after completing the Associate’s degree?

Depending on your career goals, finishing an associate’s degree in economics will surely open many doors for you. For some, finding a job right after graduation is their preferred choice. Enter the business world and work in sales, banking, or retail.

On the other hand, graduates may also choose to continue their education by entering a university. Further education may include:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Economics – Fortify your foundational knowledge and deepen your understanding of various economic concepts and business policies. This four-year program may offer other majors and even internships.
  • Master’s Degree in Economics – After finishing an undergraduate degree, a master’s degree will help you specialize in your area of interest. If you’re passionate about the impact of economics in the health sector, some universities offer a specialization in health policy.
  • Doctoral Degree in Economics – This degree will help you pursue a career in the academe. Centered on research, a doctoral degree will help you qualify for top-level positions in consultancy firms and government agencies.

What are some of the careers available for Economics Associate graduates?

An economics degree may allow you to take on roles in various industries. You may apply for job titles like:

  • Sales Officer – With a background in finance, you’ll have the right skill set to oversee sales and tracking. You’ll also put your interpersonal skills into use with this position.
  • Bookkeeper – Take charge of the company’s cash flow and financial transaction records. This requires good attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Political Analyst – Gather and analyze economic data and its impact on political issues. Work in media or private institutions. 
  • Loan Manager – Be part of a banking institution that evaluates loan applications. With your background, you’ll be in charge of loan processing and approvals.
  • Operations Analyst – Work alongside supervisors and managers to improve certain internal processes, efficiency, and work output.

Take a look: Is a career in Business Administration the right choice for me?

Rowan Jones
Chief Editor