An associate degree program is a 2-year degree program that prepares you for a chosen profession upon graduation or to continue your education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree increases your earnings potential and provides valuable career training. The courses in an associate degree program will include general education classes as well as classes in your chosen field. Community colleges, technical colleges, vocational colleges and even traditional colleges offer associate degree programs. There are two types of associate degrees: occupational and transfer. An occupational associate degree prepares you for the workforce. A transfer associate degree prepares you for a higher education and the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree.