When you list education on a resume, small grammar mistakes can make your application look rushed. One of the most common questions is whether it should be associate degree, associate’s degree, or associates degree.
Here’s the quick answer: associate’s degree is the most common form in everyday writing, associate degree is also widely accepted, and associates degree (no apostrophe) is the mistake you should avoid.
Associate degree or associate’s degree: which one is correct?
If you are choosing between associate or associate’s degree, both of these are generally acceptable:
- Associate’s degree (common in resumes, cover letters, and general writing)
- Associate degree (common in formal writing, school catalogs, and program descriptions)
What is not correct when you mean one credential:
- Associates degree (missing the apostrophe)
- Associates’ degree (plural possessive, also wrong in this context)
A simple way to think about it:
- If you want the most familiar wording for job applications, use associate’s degree.
- If you want a clean, formal style that avoids apostrophes entirely, use associate degree or list the degree by name (examples below).
Quick cheat sheet
| Use this | Avoid this | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Associate’s degree | Associates degree | Missing apostrophe |
| Associate degree | Associates’ degree | Incorrect plural possessive |
| Associate of Arts (AA) | Associates in Arts | Not the proper degree name |
Why people get confused about the apostrophe
The confusion usually comes from how English treats degree names.
- We commonly write bachelor’s degree and master’s degree with an apostrophe.
- People assume the two-year credential should follow the same pattern (and it often does), so associate’s degree is widely used.
At the same time, many schools and catalogs write degree names without the possessive form, which is why you will also see associate degree in official descriptions.
Both forms show up in professional settings. The important part is to avoid the incorrect plural form and keep your usage consistent across your resume, LinkedIn, and applications.
How to write an associate degree on a resume
A great trick is to write the degree in a way that avoids the apostrophe question entirely. Most hiring managers prefer a clear, standard education line over perfect grammar debates.
Option 1: Use the formal degree name (best for clarity)
This is the cleanest format and looks the most “resume standard”:
Education
Associate of Science in Nursing
XYZ Community College, City, State
Graduated May 2026
Other examples:
- Associate of Arts in Business Administration
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology
Option 2: Use associate’s degree (most common in everyday writing)
If you want to include the word degree, this is the most familiar form:
Associate’s degree in Business Administration, XYZ Community College (May 2026)
Option 3: Use associate degree (formal style, no apostrophe)
This is also acceptable and often used in official materials:
Associate degree in Business Administration, XYZ Community College (May 2026)
If you have not graduated yet
You can list it like this:
Associate of Arts in Psychology, XYZ Community College
Expected May 2026
Capitalization, abbreviations, and punctuation tips
Capitalization
Use lowercase when you are speaking generally:
- I completed an associate’s degree in business.
- She has an associate degree in accounting.
Capitalize when you use the formal degree name:
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Applied Science
- Associate of Arts
Abbreviations
Using abbreviations is another easy way to avoid the apostrophe issue:
- AA (Associate of Arts)
- AS (Associate of Science)
- AAS (Associate of Applied Science)
Example:
AAS in Information Technology, XYZ Community College, May 2026
Plurals
If you ever need to write it in plural form, these are common and clear:
- two associate degrees
- two associate’s degrees
Avoid:
- two associates degrees
Need proof of your associate degree for a job?
If this question came up because an employer asked you to confirm your education, the paperwork matters more than the wording on your resume.
If you need an official copy, our guide on how to get a copy of your associate degree walks through who to contact and what to request.
If you already earned your degree and want a display copy for personal use, the Associate Degree Diploma Maker is a simple way to create a realistic replica for framing, while your official document stays stored safely.
If you are still in planning mode, these related guides can help you make decisions:
Frequently asked questions
Is associates degree correct?
No. If you mean one degree, associates degree is the common mistake. Use associate’s degree or associate degree instead.
Is it associate or associate’s degree?
If you are writing the phrase with the word degree, associate’s degree is the most common form in resumes and general writing. Associate degree is also acceptable, especially in formal or academic contexts.
What is the most professional way to write it on a resume?
The most professional option is usually the formal degree name, such as Associate of Arts or Associate of Science, plus your school and graduation date. It is clear and avoids punctuation issues.
Should I capitalize associate’s degree?
Not usually. Capitalize only when you use the full formal degree name (for example, Associate of Applied Science). Otherwise, keep it lowercase in normal sentences.
How do I pluralize it?
Two clear options are two associate degrees or two associate’s degrees. Avoid two associates degrees.