48 yr old, newbie here. Need degree planning advice.

[ReyMysterioso]

In addition to that, the classes you take at Pierpont actually are the exact classes you'll be taking for transfer into UMPI or WGU, whatever other institution that fits your needs, etc.  The main benefit is the cost and if something happens along the way of your journey, you'll have an Associates under your belt....

Agreed. And having an Associate's can have job market value if you're job-hunting while also grinding on your bachelor's. If you plan it right, it won't cost you any extra time/work or money to get the Associate's on the way to your bachelor's. All upside, no downside there.