Associate Degree vs. Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare: Is It Worth Advancing Your Education?

September 30, 2026

Many healthcare professionals begin their careers with an associate degree, which is a path into entry-level employment. However, an associate degree may not be enough to secure higher-level positions. Advancing your associate degree with a bachelor’s degree could help your career, especially if you intend to move into teaching or management positions. In this guide, we’ll explore your healthcare degree options.

Difference Between Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees

Let’s define our terms. An associate degree requires about two years of study and focuses on foundational knowledge and practical skills. An associate degree has fewer credit requirements and is typically more affordable than a bachelor’s degree.

A bachelor’s degree is a four-year degree that combines in-depth study of a topic with general education classes. Bachelor’s degree programs offer a more well-rounded education while providing a deeper understanding of the core topic. Often, students can transfer credits earned in an associate’s degree toward completing a bachelor’s degree.

What are Some Benefits of a Bachelor’s Degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), advancing your education may lead to better earnings and other benefits. The BLS reports that in 2025, on average, those with a bachelor’s degree earned $443 more a week than those with an associate degree. (1) The BLS also reports that those with an associate degree had a 3% unemployment rate compared to those with a bachelor’s degree, who reported a 2.8% unemployment rate.

In addition to monetary reasons, having a bachelor’s degree may help your career in other ways.

Potentially show employers a commitment to your field.
May open the door to management or teaching positions.
Teaches critical thinking and problem-solving skills transferable across industries.
Improves written and verbal communication skills.
Provides opportunities to develop time management and organizational skills.
Median lifetime earnings are $1.2 million higher for bachelor’s degree holders. (2)

Popular Bachelor’s Degree Completion Pathways in Healthcare

While many careers can benefit from increased education, there are several medical and dental fields where a bachelor’s degree can make a significant difference in your career path. Here are some programs you can pursue to advance your education after joining the workforce.

RN to BSN

Registered nurses seeking to advance into team leader, case manager, or clinical educator support roles should consider earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. A BSN program also helps RNs develop their skills in leadership, communication, and evidence-based decision-making.

RNs can earn a BSN online, allowing them to balance studies with their work schedule.

Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy

To become a respiratory therapist, students must complete a Respiratory Therapy program and then pass a credentialing exam from the National Board for Respiratory Care.* There are two NBRC credentials: registered respiratory therapist (RRT) and certified respiratory therapist (CRT). CRT certification is the entry-level certification in respiratory care.

A Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy provides additional opportunities for professional growth and development. A BSRT can prepare licensed practitioners for new levels by building skills for career advancement in leadership, education, research, and critical care.

Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration

A Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration is an option for professionals with associate degrees who want to move into administration or management. Roles you may be prepared for after completing this degree include:

Administrative Services Managers
General and Operations Managers
Medical and Health Services Managers

Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene

Dental hygienists often begin their careers by earning an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene and obtaining the appropriate state licensure. Dental hygienists may later pursue a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH).

The BSDH is intended for dental hygienists who want additional opportunities for professional growth and development in leadership, education, and research.

How Can I Find Reliable Healthcare Colleges With Certificate, Associate Degree, and Bachelor Degree options?

Carrington College offers a range of healthcare degree options, including certificates, associate degrees, and online bachelor’s degree programs. Our bachelor’s degrees in healthcare are for working professionals in respiratory therapy, dental hygiene, nursing, and healthcare administration who want to expand their skill set and pursue career advancement. Our online healthcare degrees are useful for those who want to work while they attend school.

Learn more about Carrington College’s online bachelor programs:

Visit Student Consumer Information for important information on program outcomes.

*Carrington College prepares students to take appropriate certification and licensure exams related to their individual majors. The College does not guarantee students will successfully pass these exams or be certified or licensed as a result of completing the program.