Associate Degrees

Associate degrees in Australia are two-year tertiary qualifications that provide students with foundational knowledge and skills in a specific field of study. These degrees act as a pathway to a bachelor’s degree or prepare you for an advanced diploma in specialist industry training.

Associate degrees typically offer a mix of theoretical and practical learning, with a focus on developing practical skills and real-world experience. Some common fields of study for associate degrees include business, information technology, education, engineering, and health sciences.

Browse Associate Degree Results

Associate Degrees found:

Associate Degree of Sport Business (NSW Only)

Get a higher education qualification in two years when studying full-time! Based on the Bachelor of Sport Business in terms of content, the Associate Degree of Sport Business offers students the opportunity to get into the workforce quicker or alternat...

Study Method In-class, Online

Location Sydney New South Wales

Job Outcomes Sport manager +4

Associate Degree of Football (Development, Management and Performance) (NSW Only)

The Associate Degree of Football (Development, Management and Performance) will prepare you with the skills, knowledge and understanding for a diverse range of future career paths in the football industry. Study how the football industry (e.g., soccer,...

Study Method In-class, Online

Location Sydney New South Wales

Job Outcomes Football coach +8

Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy)

A Higher Education course to identify you as an expert in the dynamic and evolving field of Dermal Therapy. This qualification will help you accelerate your career by giving you a solid foundation in Dermal Therapy and is also your first step towards a...

Study Method Blended, Online, Virtual

Location Anywhere

Job Outcomes Aesthetic Clinics +7

Why study an associate degree in Australia?

An associate degree in Australia is a versatile qualification that helps students gain practical skills, transition into higher education, or enter the workforce quickly. It’s an affordable and flexible option, ideal for career starters, changers, or upskillers.

Benefits of studying an associate degree

Career readiness: Gain hands-on, industry-relevant skills for entry-level roles in fields like IT, healthcare, and business.
Pathway to further study: Transfer credits toward a bachelor degree, saving time and money.
Flexibility: Choose full-time, part-time, or online study to fit your lifestyle.
Affordability: Shorter duration and commonwealth supported place (CSP) options reduce tuition fees, making it cost-effective.

Who benefits from an associate degree?

School leavers: Transition smoothly from high school to higher education or the workforce.
Mature-age students: Upskill or change careers with recognition of prior learning.
Lifelong learners: Formalise knowledge and skills in areas of interest for personal or professional growth.

Popular fields of study for an associate degree

Business and management: Develop leadership, project management, and operational skills.
Information technology: Learn programming, cybersecurity, and information systems.
Healthcare and nursing: Acquire clinical and hands-on skills for roles in healthcare.
Creative arts: Focus on graphic design, media, and portfolio development.
Engineering and applied sciences: Gain technical expertise for in-demand industries.

Entry requirements for an associate degree

Completion of year 12 or equivalent, including ATAR considerations.
Mature-age entry: Relevant work experience or qualifications.
English proficiency: IELTS or equivalent scores for international students.

Some programs may require prerequisites, such as prior knowledge or portfolios, depending on the field of study.

Duration and study options for an associate degree

Full-time: Typically 2 years.
Part-time: Flexible scheduling over 3–4 years.
Accelerated programs: Complete in less time for faster career opportunities.

Comparing qualifications with an associate degree

Diploma: Short, vocational, job-specific (6–12 months).
Associate degree: Balanced mix of practical and academic learning, offering pathways to higher education study (2 years).
Bachelor degree: Comprehensive, advanced study (3+ years) for specialisation and career advancement.

An associate degree provides a cost-effective, practical route to success in australian higher education, with flexible study options tailored for domestic and international students.