Looking for high-paying jobs with just a two-year degree? This article covers the best associate degree jobs, and how you can get your degree quickly at any stage in life.
Key Takeaways
- Associate degrees can lead to high-paying jobs in fields like healthcare and technology, with roles like radiation therapists earning a median salary of up to $98,300 annually.
- The job market for associate degree holders is strong, especially in healthcare, with many positions projected to grow significantly in the next decade.
- Obtaining an associate degree is more affordable than a four year bachelor’s degree and can be achieved more quickly through flexible and accelerated programs. This makes an associate’s degree a smart investment for a rewarding career.
The Value of Associate Degrees
An associate degree can be a game-changer in today’s job market. These programs are designed to be completed in two years, offering a faster path to employment compared to a traditional four-year degree. This is especially beneficial for those who want to enter a higher-paying or more skilled job more quickly or minimize student debt. The financial benefits can be significant, with many associate degree holders earning competitive salaries in technical and medical fields.
The job outlook for careers requiring just an associate degree remains strong, with several roles projected to experience growth over the next decade. This is especially true in the healthcare sector, where an aging population and changes in healthcare laws have driven up demand for medical workers. For instance, the job outlook for registered nurses is projected at 15%, highlighting the ongoing need for skilled healthcare professionals.
Associate degree holders earn significantly more than high school graduates, with an average annual income of $42,900 compared to $37,752. This difference in earnings underscores the value of pursuing an associate degree program.
Many associate degrees are lucrative alternatives to four-year programs, offering a worthwhile return on investment without the extended time and higher costs.
Associate Degree Jobs are Numerous and Lucrative
The job market for associate degree holders is robust, with many roles expected to grow significantly over the next decade. This includes positions in high-demand sectors such as healthcare and technology, where the need for skilled professionals continues to rise.
Also important to note, is that choosing one of these high-paying careers is one that is not likely to be replaced by AI anytime soon. Community college plays a crucial role in this, offering flexible scheduling options that cater to non-traditional students balancing work or family obligations. Many two-year degrees offer lucrative careers with affordable education costs, making them a smart investment.
The top associate degree jobs offer diverse opportunities to maximize earning potential without a four-year degree commitment. From the impressive dental hygienist salary to the competitive radiation therapist salary, these careers provide financial stability and job satisfaction. The combination of excellent job growth projections and the relatively low cost of education makes pursuing an associate degree a wise choice for many.
Growing Medical Field Jobs That Require Only an Associate Degree
The medical field is a prime example of an industry with high-demand jobs that only require an associate degree. From radiation technologists to dental hygienists, these careers offer substantial salaries and excellent job growth prospects.
Rising demand for healthcare professionals makes this sector attractive for those pursuing an associate degree. Median salaries and job projections noted below, unless otherwise noted, are from the Bureau of Labor Statistic’s Occupational Outlook Handbook and are for the year 2023.
Radiation Technologists and Therapists
Radiation therapists play a critical role in treating cancer and other diseases, working primarily in hospitals, physician offices, and outpatient centers. These professionals earn a median salary of $98,300, making it one of the most lucrative associate degree jobs in the medical field.
The job growth for radiation therapists is projected at 2.4%, with a job availability outlook of 13%, reflecting a steady demand for this crucial role. In addition to an associates degree, most states require certification and licensure for radiation therapists, ensuring they are well-prepared to provide top-notch care.
Radiologic technologists, who perform diagnostic exams and X-rays using medical equipment, also enjoy a promising career path with an associate’s degree in radiologic technology. These professionals have a job growth projection of 6%. Over half of radiologic technologists work in hospitals, highlighting their critical role in healthcare.
Median Radiation Therapist Salary: $93,300
Median Radiation Technologist Salary: $73,410
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Diagnostic medical sonographers are responsible for creating images of the body for diagnostic purposes using specialized imaging equipment. Using a transducer, sonographers create ultrasounds, often the first test used to detect disease.
Projected job growth for diagnostic medical sonographers is 11% through 2032, indicating strong and growing demand.
Median Medical Sonographer Salary: $84,470
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologists operate MRI scanners to create detailed images of the body. Most MRI technologists work in healthcare facilities, with a significant number employed in hospitals.
MRI technologists have a projected job growth rate of 6%, reflecting steady demand for their expertise.
Median MRI Technologist Salary: $83,740
Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory therapists specialize in helping patients who have trouble breathing due to chronic respiratory diseases or emergencies. They perform tests, help develop treatment plans, and monitor patient progress.
Employment for respiratory therapists is expected to grow by 13% from 2023 to 2033, making it a promising career choice.
Median Respiratory Therapist Salary: $77,960
Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists are essential to the dental care team, assisting with cleanings and x-rays, and updating patient records. Their primary dental hygiene responsibilities include cleaning teeth and assisting the dentist during procedures. Dental hygienist jobs pay an average salary of $81,400 annually; however those in Alaska earn the highest average salary, at approximately $115,050 per year!
The job growth rate for dental hygienist is projected at 7%, reflecting a steady demand for these professionals. Dental hygienists must pass national and regional licensing exams after completing an associate degree.
Median Dental Hygienist Salary: $81,400
Cardiovascular Technologists
Cardiovascular technologists and technicians conduct tests related to the heart and lungs. They also create images that help in diagnosis and treatment. They manage essential cardiovascular equipment, ensuring proper maintenance and operation. These professionals often conduct non-invasive tests like echocardiograms to assess heart function.
The projected job growth for cardiovascular technologists is 11%, primarily due to workforce retirements and transitions.
Median Cardiovascular Technologist Salary: $66,170
Physical Therapist Assistants
Physical therapist assistants play a vital role in patient recovery and pain management under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. They usually work in a therapist office or hospital.
Physical therapist assistants must hold an associate degree and obtain licensure to practice. With a projected job growth of 19% through 2032, this is an excellent career option for the health-minded job seeker.
Median Physical Therapy Assistant Salary: $64,080
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Associate Degree Jobs in Technology
Numerous high-paying technology careers only require a two-year degree. These roles span various fields, including aerospace, engineering, and IT, offering excellent opportunities for tech-minded individuals.
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists
Aerospace engineering and operations technologists assist engineers in developing, maintaining, testing, and calibrating the equipment used to test aircraft and spacecraft systems. This job sites for this career are typically manufacturing facilities and labs.
With a projected job growth of 8% over the next 10 years, aerospace engineering is a burgeoning field for interested individuals.
Median Aerospace Technologist Salary: $77,830
Avionics Technicians
Avionics technicians and aircraft equipment technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining aircraft electronic instruments. While many enter this field with an associates degree from an FAA-approved program, others only a high school diploma and obtain training on the job or in the military. These aviation repair and maintenance technicians often complete repairs and maintenance in the field, in hangars, airfields, and repair stations.
The job growth projection for avionics technicians is 5% from 2022 to 2032.
Median Avionics Technician Salary: $77,420
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists
These highly trained professionals assist engineers in creating and developing equipment powered by electricity. They also assist with installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting electronic equipment.
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists understand circuitry and electronic components, and make parts from plans and sketches using a variety of tools. The projected job growth over 10 years for this occupation is 3%.
Median Electrical Engineer Technologist Salary: $72,800
Computer Support Specialists
Computer support specialists provide help and advice to computer users and organizations. While a computer network specialist usually provides network support to organizations, a computer user support specialist provides support and diagnostics to individuals.
Expected job growth for computer support specialists is 6% over the next 10 years. An associate degree in IT or computer science is typically required for entry-level positions.
Median Computer Network Specialist Salary: $71,530
Median Computer User Support Specialist Salary: $59,240
Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Mechanical engineering technicians assist mechanical engineers in developing and manufacturing mechanical devices. They often work with drawings, blueprints, and 3D design software. Additionally, their role typically involves installing machines, testing them, and troubleshooting problems.
While the projected job growth for this role is just 2% over the next 10 years, this career offers an excellent career path for engineer-minded individuals.
Median Mechanical Engineering Technician Salary: $64,020
Human-Centered Careers for Associate Degree
For individuals who thrive on human interaction and support, there are several fulfilling careers available with only an associate degree. These roles allow you to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives while enjoying a rewarding career.
Funeral Service Workers
Funeral service workers include funeral home managers, morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers. These positions combined manage all aspects of funeral homes, ensuring that everything runs smoothly while providing compassionate support to grieving families.
To work in this field, an associate’s degree is required, along with state licensure specifically for morticians. The job outlook for funeral service workers is promising, with an expected job growth of 4% over the next 10 years.
Median Funeral Service Worker Salary: $60,580
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Occupational therapy assistants help patients develop the skills needed for daily living and working. They may assist therapists with a variety of tasks from providing patient treatment to preparing facilities and completing paperwork.
This role requires an associate degree and involves working closely with occupational therapists to provide essential support to patients.
Median Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary: $67,010
Teachers
Teaching offers numerous opportunities for those with an associate degree, especially in early childhood education and as teacher assistants. The demand for teacher assistants is projected to rise, and early childhood educators are among the most sought-after positions nationally. As of 2023, there were approximately 528,500 jobs available for preschool teachers, highlighting the steady demand for educators.
Library assistant is another occupation in the teaching field that only requires an associate’s degree – and in some cases, only a high school diploma is required. Other teaching jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree include substitute teachers, tutors, and special education aids.
Teachers specializing in certain subject areas may require additional certifications or licenses, depending on state requirements.
Median Preschool Teacher Salary: $37,130
Median Teacher Assistant Salary: $35,500
Median Library Assistant Salary: $36,700
Other Career Paths for Associate’s Degree Holders
Beyond the medical and technology fields, there are numerous other career paths available for individuals with only an associate degree or an applied science degree. These careers span industries such as legal, aerospace, and veterinary care, offering diverse opportunities for those with the right associate degree.
Legal Support Workers
Legal support workers, including paralegals and legal assistants, play a crucial role in the legal system by assisting attorneys with research, documentation, and case preparation. They earn a median annual salary of $59,200, with a job growth projection of 4%.
The job outlook percentage for paralegals is an impressive 15%, driven by the ongoing need for legal services among individuals and businesses. An associate’s degree in legal studies is typically sufficient to begin a career in this field.
Median Paralegal Salary: $59,200
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Air Traffic Controllers
Air traffic controllers guide the movement of aircraft to ensure safety in the skies. They earn a median salary of $124,540, making it one of the highest-paying jobs available with an associate degree. There are approximately 24,900 air traffic controller jobs available, with a job growth projection of 1.4%.
Air traffic controllers require rigorous training and certification from the Federal Aviation Administration, but are rewarded with significant financial compensation and job stability.
Median Air Traffic Controller Salary: $124,520
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary technicians work alongside veterinarians to provide care for animals, often using cutting-edge veterinary technology. They typically complete 2 to 4 years of education beyond high school, culminating in an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology. To be recognized as licensed or certified, veterinary technicians must pass a credentialing exam and participate in ongoing education.
In 2023, there are approximately 125,700 jobs available for veterinary technicians, with an projected job growth of 19% from 2023 to 2033. The median annual salary for veterinary technicians is $43,740, equating to $21.03 per hour.
Median Veterinary Technician Salary: $43,740
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How to Get an Associates Degree
Obtaining an associate degree can be a relatively fast and affordable process, especially with the variety of options available today. From traditional community colleges to online and hybrid university programs, there are numerous ways to fit education into your life at any stage.
Financing Your Associate Degree
The average annual cost of attending a two-year community college is estimated to be around $3,598, making it a cost-effective option for higher education. The total tuition for a public associate’s degree program, assuming graduation in two years, is approximately $7,196. Community colleges typically charge significantly lower tuition rates compared to four-year universities, further enhancing their affordability.
As of 2024, 35 states offer free community college tuition. Attempts have been made to offer free cc tuition at the federal level, but were stalled. If you do not live in a state that offers free tution, or if you don’t meet the state’s requirements, there are other ways to obtain help to pay for your eduction.
Students seeking financial aid should start with scholarships, grants, and federal work-study programs, as these do not require repayment. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential for determining eligibility for various financial aid options, including scholarships and federal loans.
Federal student loans offer flexible repayment options and do not require a credit check, making them a popular choice for many students. Private student loans may require a cosigner and are based on the borrower’s creditworthiness, offering different interest rate options. Understanding the costs involved and exploring financial aid options is crucial for planning your educational path.
Choosing the Right Associate Degree Program
When choosing an associate degree program, consider the institution’s accreditation to ensure quality and recognition. Evaluate the course relevance to your career goals to make an informed decision. The reputation and qualifications of the faculty members can significantly impact your educational experience and opportunities as well.
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation CHEA has a searchable database of the universities accredited by recognized US accrediting organizations. Additionally, Rate My Professors is an excellent resource for reviewing the reputation of faculty members.
Personal interests in the field should also be a primary factor when choosing an associate degree program. Review the degree’s course requirements and compare them to your past grades and inherent skills. Lastly, be sure to choose a program that aligns with growing job markets – the last thing you want to do is spend the time and money to get a degree, only for there to be no open positions in your desired role.
Flexible and Accelerated Programs for Getting an Associate’s Degree Fast
Flexible and accelerated programs can enable you to obtain an associate degree in less than two years. Many community colleges offer summer courses and other accelerated options to speed up the process.
Another option is using online institutions like:
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Rasmussen University
- University of Phoenix
- Colorado Technical University
- University of Arizona Global Campus
These universities provide flexible online associate degree programs designed to help students achieve their academic goals quickly, and can later be relayed into bachelor’s degree programs if desired.
These dynamic college degree programs allow students to transfer a significant number of credits, focus on one course at a time, and start their degrees throughout the year, offering maximum flexibility.
Summary
Associate degrees offer a faster, more affordable route to high-paying jobs than a bachelor’s degree. These jobs span various industries, including healthcare, technology, and human-centered careers. With the potential for excellent salaries and job growth, these programs are a valuable alternative to traditional four-year degrees.
The medical field, in particular, showcases numerous opportunities for those without an advanced degree, from radiation therapists to dental hygienists. Technology-focused careers and human-centered roles also present lucrative and fulfilling options for associate degree holders, such as jobs from aerospace engineers to funeral service directors. And for those who prefer less human involvement, paralegal and veterinary technicians offer more focused and independent work.
The pathway to obtaining an associate degree is flexible and accessible. A variety of universities offer online and hybrid course options. Community colleges offer low tuition rates, and there are numerous free or financial aid options available to any students pursuing a degree. Pursuing an associate degree can lead to a rewarding and financially stable career, making it a smart choice for many.
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