If you are interested in studying quality assurance, then read on to find out about the best quality assurance associate degrees, both in-person and online, that can set you down this career path. You will also learn about career options you can pursue once you graduate with an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance and the average annual salaries for different positions.
Discovering the benefits of online degrees and in-person degrees will help you choose the best Associate Degree in Quality Assurance for you. Follow along as we take a deep dive into admission requirements, degree requirements, and tuition and fees to help you find the perfect quality assurance associate degree programs.
What Is Quality Assurance?
Quality assurance (QA) refers to the procedures used to verify that a product complies with the imposed quality standards. These processes help a company meet the expectations and needs of its customers and be recognized for this.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance are Anoka Technical College, Ferris State University, and Goodwin University. You can also get a quality assurance associate degree at Eastern Kentucky University or Tidewater Community College.
What Schools Offer the Best Quality Assurance Associate Degrees?
- Anoka Technical College
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Ferris State University
- Goodwin University
- Tidewater Community College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance?
The main admission requirement for an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is a high school diploma or completion of a GED. The requirements for an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance vary depending on your program, but most programs require the completion of 60 credit hours.
The required language for an Associate of Quality Assurance is primarily English in the US. Although it is not a quality assurance associate degree requirement, you may have to learn localization quality assurance or certain coding languages. According to Statista, the most popular programming languages are JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Python.
Quality Assurance Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- Fill out the application form.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit your high school transcript.
- Submit your SAT/ACT test scores.
- Apply for financial aid.
How to Get an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance
You can get a quality assurance associate degree by completing all your required courses and credits. Although it is not necessary, it is very useful to have prior knowledge of data interpretation and communication, have project management skills, and understand how a product affects the humans that buy it.
The best way to get a quality assurance associate degree is to find the program that best suits your needs and expertise. You’re more likely to succeed in a happy environment, so choosing a good school is essential to getting an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance?
You need 60 to 65 credits for an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance. This varies from school to school, but you can generally finish a quality assurance associate degree in two years by taking 15 to 18 credits per semester.
Quality Assurance Degree Requirements
- Complete a total of 60-65 credits.
- Complete 15-20 general education credits.
- Complete your specialization.
- Pass all your core classes.
- Complete the required electives.
Best Quality Assurance Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Anoka Technical College | Associate of Applied Science, Quality Technician | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Chattanooga State Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Engineering Technology, Quality Assurance/Quality Control Technology Concentration | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Cuyahoga Community College | Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology–Programming and Development, Quality Assurance Concentration | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Eastern Kentucky University | Associate of Applied Sciences in Quality Assurance Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Ferris State University | Associate of Applied Science in Manufacturing Technology | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Goodwin University | Associate Degree in Quality Management Systems | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Herkimer State University of New York | Associate of Science in Quality Assurance – Business | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Quality Engineering Technology | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Tidewater Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Technology, Quality Assurance Specialization | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Waukesha County Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Quality Management | The Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Quality Assurance: Top Quality Assurance Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance are the ones that have courses and specializations that excite you. It’s also very important to consider tuition costs and location when finding the best quality assurance associate programs.
The following are the colleges and universities that offer the top quality assurance associate programs, along with each school’s curriculum. All the information in this article can be found on the various schools’ official websites.
Best Online Quality Assurance Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Central Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Quality Technology | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Davenport University | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Fox Valley Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Quality Engineering Technology | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Herkimer County Community College | Associate of Science in Quality Assurance | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Lakeshore Technical College | Associate Degree, Quality Assurance Technician | The Higher Learning Commission |
Best Colleges for Quality Assurance: Top Online Quality Assurance Associate Degree Programs
Sometimes online learning can be the best option if you need a more flexible approach to education. If you want to study quality assurance online, here are some of the best Associate Degrees in Quality Assurance that you can earn remotely.
What Is a Quality Assurance Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is a two-year program designed to teach students about the processes involved in maintaining the efficiency, quality, and effectiveness of a company’s products or services. These programs are taught using various existing methodologies to make recommendations based on data.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance?
An Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is important because all businesses and corporations need to be sure their systems are running smoothly. Quality assurance is the key to efficiently working in manufacturing. Certifications in quality assurance can get you recognition and give you higher earning opportunities, although there are many differences between a certificate and a degree.
The main reason a quality assurance associate degree is important is that it teaches you important life skills. If you’re wondering how important an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is, it’s important to note that students emerging from these programs have a better sense of different standards of quality. Here are some benefits of a quality assurance degree:
- Teamwork
- Cooperation skills
- Leadership skills
- Attention to detail
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Quality Assurance?
You can get the following types of Associate Degrees in Quality Assurance:
- Associate of Applied Science
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Applied Business
There are a few different quality assurance associate degree types, so it’s important to carefully research every program. The best degree type for quality assurance is the one that suits your interests and needs.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Applied Science or an Associate of Applied Business in Quality Assurance?
It is better to get an Associate of Applied Science in Quality Assurance because you’ll have enhanced career prospects and higher earning potential. An Associate in Applied Business prepares you for the realm of human resources, accounting, and business communication. An Associate of Applied Science gives you access to a much wider range of careers.
If you want to determine if an Associate in Applied Science or an Associate in Applied Business is better, you have to access your own career and long-term goals. If you want to work in manufacturing, choose the latter. If you intend to work in the power or construction industry, an AAS will be more suited to you. Either degree is better than no degree.
What Is the Difference Between a Quality Assurance Associate Degree and a Quality Assurance Certificate?
The main difference between a quality assurance associate degree and a certificate in quality assurance is that certifications often build on a student’s previous degrees. Although sub-baccalaureate certifications give you professional insight, they don’t go as in-depth as an associate degree.
It is better to get a quality assurance associate degree instead of a certificate because it covers a broader range of topics and gives you a more well-rounded education. Certifications tend to focus on more specialized topics, like pharmaceutical production for example. If you’re deciding between an associate degree or a certificate in quality assurance, choose the former.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the annual cost of tuition at a two-year institution is an average of $4,230. The quality assurance associate degree cost will vary significantly depending on the university you choose to enroll in.
Quality Assurance Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Quality Assurance Degree
You can consider several options when deciding how to pay for your Associate Degree in Quality Assurance, such as grants and loans. You can also apply for full financial aid for an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance. Many schools also offer scholarships based on academic achievements or financial needs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Quality Assurance Associate Degree?
It takes approximately two years to get an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance. To determine your Associate Degree in Quality Assurance length, you have to consider the number of credits it takes to complete the program, which is usually between 60 and 65. If you take 15-18 credits per semester, you can complete your associate degree in under two years.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance?
An Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is relatively easy to get if you study hard and apply yourself. These programs often include hands-on approaches and research projects, so it’s extremely important to do your work if you want to succeed.
However, getting a quality assurance associate degree is hard because you have to get very familiar with coding languages and software to excel in the field. If you do not master these more heady aspects, it will be very hard to graduate or get a good job after graduation.
Why Should You Get a Quality Assurance Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance are the following:
- Less time in school than other degrees
- Cooperation skills
- Leadership skills
- Attention to detail
- Cheaper tuition than other degrees
- Great job prospects
The benefit of getting a second Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is you get to expand on your field of study without having to go to school for another four years. If you took an Associate in Applied Science for your first degree, you could decide to try an Associate in Applied Business and pursue a slightly different career path.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Quality Assurance?
The required Associate Degree in Quality Assurance courses are those that cover communication, project management, coding, and technical procedures. An Associate Degree in Quality Assurance course list dives into plan testing and hardware testing. Here are a few examples of classes you might encounter in your associate degree.
Computer Applications
This is an introductory course that teaches students how to use computers as problem-solving tools. They take a deep dive into computer applications and computer concepts such as Word and Excel. Students will learn how to create basic web pages and use different systems.
Engineering Economics Analysis
Students in this course learn how to access risks associate with engineering economics. They’ll master project evaluation and excel in system analysis. Students learn how to make important decisions based on operation costs.
Introduction to Quality Management
This course is the foundation for a quality assurance associate degree. It covers the most important basic principles, tools, skills, and techniques used in this career field. These skills can be applied to a variety of industries.
Products and Material Testing
In a product and material testing class, students learn about the theory of mechanics and how it’s applied to mechanical testing. Students get an in-depth education on different devices and sensors, how to prepare and produce specimens, and how to process data.
Quality Control and Reliability
In this course students learn about production standards, including the safety and efficiency standards for the design of a product. They’ll also discover how to design and use charts and how to differentiate a good lot from a poor lot in sampling.
Continuing Education Paths for Quality Assurance Associate Degree Graduates
If you want to further your education, the best path to take with a quality assurance associate degree is a bachelor’s degree. For the most part, bachelor’s programs will let you transfer your credits so that you only have two years of the program to complete. Another valuable path after an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is a master’s degree.
The main difference between an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree is that the latter is twice as long, for a total of four years of school. Overall, an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is faster and easier to earn.
Related Quality Assurance Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Quality Assurance Associate Degree Programs
The best quality assurance associate degree programs have well-rounded courses and excellent career options. You can expect hard work and high-quality education from a quality assurance associate degree that suits your needs. Here are a few things to consider when choosing your program.
Accreditation
If a school or program is accredited, it means it has passed an inspection that rates the quality of the education given. Employers tend to favor graduates from these institutions because it’s guaranteed that they received proper and professional training.
Flexible Format
It’s important to pick a school that suits your schedule. If you need a bit more flexibility, many online programs exist that allow you to take your courses at your own pace. If you desire a more rigid format that makes you stay focused and productive, you may want to consider in-person programs.
Cost
Although associate degrees are less expensive than other degree types, it’s still a higher education program that costs a lot of money. You want to choose a program where you can focus on your studies without worrying about debt or running out of money. There are also many scholarships and loan options available to students.
Reputation of the Program
The reputation of your program highly affects the quality of your education and your possible employment outcomes. Read up on the program and ask around to see what the teachers and classes are like. You don’t want to be in a program that stunts your growth.
Employment Outcomes
The great thing about associate degrees is that they directly prepare you for the workforce after graduation. Research the employment outcomes of the schools in which you’re interested to see which program gives you the best chance of starting your desired career path.
What Is the Most Affordable Quality Assurance Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degrees in Quality Assurance are the following:
- Central Community College
- Cuyahoga Community College
- Lakeshore Technical College
- Chattanooga State Community College
Salary and Job Outlook for Quality Assurance Associate Degree Graduates
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for a quality assurance analyst is $98,220. Quality assurance associate degree job salaries depend on the degree of responsibility, their experience in the field, and the location.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Quality Assurance Associate Degree?
It is fairly easy to get a job with a quality assurance associate degree because graduates with this degree can work in many industries, such as manufacturing, management, food production, and healthcare. However, to work yourself up to bigger and higher-paying positions, most corporations do require that you have a bachelor’s degree.
What’s the Average Quality Assurance Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is $79,000 per year, as reported by PayScale. The yearly salary and median wages vary depending on the actual position and company that hired you.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Quality Assurance Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a quality assurance associate degree are mainly in the quality assurance and quality control departments. Your coding and technical training can serve you in analysis, tech, and manufacturing positions. The highest-paying jobs with a quality assurance associate degree are in the tech, pharmaceutical, and healthcare industries.
Quality Assurance Degree Jobs
- Calibration technician
- Manufacturing inspector
- Quality assurance technician
- Quality assurance analyst
- Quality control analyst
Potential Careers With a Quality Assurance Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance?
You can make between $40,000 and $120,000 per year with an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance. This degree can get you a very good entry-level job in which you can work your way up to high-paying jobs and benefits. The job title and duties are important to consider when wondering how much money you can make with an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance.
Highest-Paying Quality Assurance Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
In the following table, you will find information regarding the top jobs you can get with a quality assurance associate degree. All the data used in this section comes from BLS and PayScale.
| Quality Assurance Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Quality Assurance Director | $116,935 |
| Quality Assurance Analyst | $98,220 |
| Quality Assurance Manager | $82,552 |
| Quality Assurance Engineer | $72,316 |
| Quality Assurance Auditor | $62,208 |
| Quality Assurance Specialist | $62,096 |
| Quality Assurance Supervisor | $61,791 |
| Quality Assurance Coordinator | $53,340 |
| Quality Assurance Technician | $47,874 |
| Quality Control Inspector | $38,580 |
Best Jobs for Quality Assurance Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for quality assurance associate degree grads are the ones that pay well and leave you feeling fulfilled and satisfied. Although salary and benefits are obviously nice, it’s important to choose a job that fulfills your personal and emotional needs as well. Grads will be able to work in manufacturing, healthcare, and research facilities.
*Based on Bureau of Labors Statistics data on Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
**Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Quality Control Inspectors
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Quality Assurance Bootcamp vs Quality Assurance Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is better than a quality assurance bootcamp because the bootcamp does not go as in-depth as an associate degree, which can be very influential when it comes to applying for a job.
If you want to study quality control and are wondering whether you should enroll in a bootcamp or an associate degree program, you should choose the option that best fits your career goals and needs.
Benefits of a Quality Assurance Associate Degree
- Specializing. When you study in an associate degree program, you can gain field-specific knowledge that will help you acquire the unique skills necessary to get a job.
- Opportunities. With an associate degree, you will have a great chance of getting a job because of the value placed on a college degree.
- Continuing education. Most of these programs offer the possibility of continuing your studies by transferring the college credits you earn to a bachelor’s degree program.
- Cost. An associate program can cost you practically half the price of a bachelor’s degree. In addition, they usually offer different types of financial aid to help you pay the tuition fees.
- High earning potential. By earning an associate degree, you will be able to apply for jobs that offer a higher salary because you have a college degree.
Benefits of a Quality Assurance Bootcamp
- Curriculum. In a bootcamp, you will learn the necessary skills more efficiently than in a longer degree program.
- Schedule. Most bootcamps offer a flexible schedule. You can choose the one that allows you to do other activities while you study.
- Cost. A bootcamp is cheaper than an associate program and also offers different types of financial assistance.
- Time. The duration of a bootcamp can vary from a few months to a year, but it is much faster than obtaining a college or university degree. This way you can join the workforce almost immediately.
- Online. Many bootcamps are online, so you can do them from anywhere and adjust your studies alongside your work and other activities.
Is an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Quality Assurance is worth it if you are looking for a program that does not take four years or more to complete. An associate program will take you half the time to complete and still gives you a valuable college credential. An Associate Degree in Quality Assurance can lead to careers in quality control in a wide variety of industries.
Additional Reading About Quality Assurance
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Quality Assurance Associate Degree FAQ
Any degree is better than no degree for a job quality assurance. To perform a quality assurance position, you can either earn an associate or a bachelor’s degree.
An associate degree is not worthless. An associate degree is between a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree. It qualifies you to work in several entry-level careers that require higher-level training.
Some of the qualifications you need for quality assurance besides a degree are soft skills like being detail-oriented, having problem-solving and teamwork skills, and most importantly, knowledge of quality standards.
Yes, you need an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree to do quality assurance. You may need a more advanced degree for higher management positions, but an associate degree is enough to get you in the door.
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