That's way high for an associates degree that is pretty much useless. I think you're in California right? According to Dr Google, in state tuition for any UC school is $13,300 (including average fees). So for roughly $10k more you could get a four year degree from a more reputable school in a subject that could actually earn you some money outside of aviation (I personally recommend petroleum/civil/mechanical engineering as great backups). And as a bonus you get enjoy regular college life a bit (women, tailgating, beer, etc).

There is no need to get an aviation degree, take whatever they say to you through a filter. The reduction in ATP requirements is not worth it, you can build the extra hours in less than a year.

Continue training where you are at (if you're happy with them) and pay as you go.