NOTE: This page is regularly updated to include new data and best reflect current hiring trends. We outline our methodology and provide a bit of context about who we are at the end of the report.
If you’re exploring a practical and efficient route to a successful career, getting an associate degree is a great option.
These 2-year degrees can open doors to several work opportunities with excellent earning potential, especially when combined with relevant work experience, training, internships, and certifications.
Below is a list of high-paying jobs with promising job growth projections that you can pursue with an associate degree:
Job | Median Annual Salary | Number of Jobs |
---|---|---|
Air traffic controller | $137,380 | 24,000 |
Nuclear technician | $101,740 | 5,400 |
Radiation therapist | $98,300 | 17,200 |
Nuclear medicine technologist | $92,500 | 17,800 |
Dental hygienist | $87,530 | 214,100 |
Diagnostic medical sonographer, cardiovascular technologist/technician | $80,850 | 143,400 |
Respiratory therapist | $77,960 | 133,900 |
Aerospace engineering and operations technologist / technician | $77,830 | 11,000 |
Radiologic and MRI technologist | $76,020 | 271,200 |
Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technician | $75,400 | 163,300 |
1. Air traffic controller
- Median annual salary: $137,380
- Number of jobs (2023): 24,000
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 3%
Job responsibilities for air traffic controllers
Air traffic controllers keep aircrew and passengers safe by managing the flow of air traffic. Some of their tasks include giving pilots updates on weather, flight paths, and runway information to ensure safe takeoffs and landings.
They’re also responsible for alerting emergency services and helping to prevent air traffic delays by directing planes and analyzing flight data.
How to become an air traffic controller
To get started as an air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), you must be a U.S. citizen, be under 31, have an associate degree in this field or the equivalent of three years of work experience, and be willing to relocate as needed.
The hiring process also includes passing the Air Traffic Skills Assessment, medical and security screenings, and completing intensive training by the FAA.
2. Nuclear technician
- Median annual salary: $101,740
- Number of jobs (2023): 5,400
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): -6%
Job responsibilities for nuclear technicians
Nuclear technicians work with physicists, engineers, and various professionals to conduct nuclear research and help produce nuclear energy.
They typically operate from offices and control rooms within nuclear power plants, and use computers and specialized equipment to monitor and manage nuclear reactors.
How to become a nuclear technician
To become a nuclear technician, you can start by getting an associate degree in nuclear science, nuclear technology, or a related field. Once hired, new nuclear technicians undergo extensive practical training to learn more about the necessary operational, safety, and regulatory procedures.
3. Radiation therapist
- Median annual salary: $98,300
- Number of jobs (2023): 17,200
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 3%
Job responsibilities for radiation therapists
Radiation therapists work closely with medical teams to provide targeted radiation treatment for patients with cancer and other serious diseases. They plan and deliver radiation therapy, while also ensuring procedures are done accurately and safely.
How to become a radiation therapist
The path to becoming a radiation therapist usually requires an associate bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy or a healthcare-related field. Most states in the U.S. require radiation therapists to be licensed or certified, which involves passing a national certification exam.
4. Nuclear medicine technologist
- Median annual salary: $92,500
- Number of jobs (2023): 17,800
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): -1%
Job responsibilities for nuclear medicine technologists
Nuclear medicine technologists must safely prepare and administer radioactive drugs to patients. These drugs are for either imaging or therapeutic purposes primarily tied to cancer treatment.
How to become a nuclear medicine technologist
The outlook for nuclear medicine technologists starts with graduating from an accredited nuclear medicine technology program with an associate degree. Additionally, some states require nuclear medicine technologists to be licensed, which typically involves passing an exam and meeting educational and training criteria.
5. Dental hygienist
- Median annual salary: $87,530
- Number of jobs (2023): 214,100
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 9%
Job responsibilities for dental hygienists
Dental hygienists help maintain the oral hygiene of patients by assessing them for oral health conditions like gingivitis and performing preventative services such as dental cleanings and fluoride treatments.
How to become a dental hygienist
To get a job as a dental hygienist, you usually need to finish a 2-year program that awards an associate degree in dental hygiene. It takes about 3 years to complete these studies due to the combination of laboratory, clinical, and classroom instruction.
All states require dental hygienists to be licensed but requirements vary by state.
6. Diagnostic medical sonographer, cardiovascular technologist/technician
- Median annual salary: $80,850
- Number of jobs (2023): 143,400
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 11%
Job responsibilities for diagnostic medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists/technicians
Diagnostic medical sonographers as well as cardiovascular technologists/technicians use imaging technology to conduct tests and create images of the human body.
These medical professionals diagnose and treat patients within specific areas of focus. For instance, cardiac sonographers focus on studying heart images, while vascular technicians focus on blood flow through arteries and veins.
How to become a diagnostic medical sonographer and cardiovascular technologist/technician
To get started in this career, you’ll need to complete an associate degree or a postsecondary certification.
Some employers may require additional certification, which you can receive through organizations such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Credentialing International.
7. Respiratory therapist
- Median annual salary: $77,960
- Number of jobs (2023): 133,900
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 13%
Job responsibilities for respiratory therapists
Respiratory therapists specialize in treating patients with breathing difficulties, and their work ranges from caring for premature infants with undeveloped lungs to treating elderly patients with lung diseases.
How to become a respiratory therapist
Becoming a respiratory therapist generally requires an associate degree, although some positions might prefer or require a four-year bachelor’s degree. All states (except for Alaska) require respiratory therapists to be licensed, with specific requirements varying from state to state.
8. Aerospace engineering and operations technologist/technician
- Median annual salary: $77,830
- Number of jobs (2023): 11,000
- Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 8%
Job responsibilities for aerospace engineering and operations technologists/technicians
Aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians work on testing and maintaining aircraft and spacecraft. Their meticulous work ensures that these vehicles are safe and reliable.
How to become an aerospace engineering and operations technologist/technician
To enter this field, you’ll need an associate degree in engineering technology or a related subject, although some positions accept candidates with a high school diploma or a certificate of program completion.
9. Radiologic and MRI technologist
- Median annual salary: $76,020
- Number of jobs (2023): 271,200
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 6%
Job responsibilities for radiologic technologists and MRI technologists
Radiologic technologists and MRI technologists are both medical professionals who work with diagnostic imaging equipment, but they specialize in different types of technology and procedures.
Radiologic technologists conduct X-ray and CT scans on patients, while MRI technologists specifically use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to produce diagnostic images.
How to become a radiologic technologist and MRI technologist
If you want to become a radiologic technologist or MRI technologist, you’ll likely need an associate degree to qualify. While most states require radiologic technologists to become certified, only a handful require certification for MRI technologist positions.
10. Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic/technician
- Median annual salary: $75,400
- Number of jobs (2023): 163,300
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 5%
Job responsibilities for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics/technicians
Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair planes and helicopters. Their job involves diagnosing and fixing mechanical or electrical issues, replacing defective parts, and ensuring that aircraft comply with federal safety standards.
How to become an aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic/technician
Avionics technicians must earn an associate degree before entering this role. Then, they should attend an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) or gain relevant experience through military training.
The FAA requires certification for this role, which means these technicians also need to pass oral, practical, and knowledge exams.
3 job-seeking tips for associate degree holders
According to a study done by Georgetown University in 2021, 28% of associate degree workers earn more than 50% of workers with a bachelor’s degree.
This finding suggests that your degree can take you further in the workforce than you might think. As an associate degree holder looking to start your job search, consider these three tips to set yourself apart as a strong candidate:
1. Highlight practical skills and experience when applying for jobs
Employers value associate degree holders because of the practical knowledge and experience they receive from the degree program.
To demonstrate the real-world benefits of your associate degree to potential employers, emphasize the skills and knowledge you’ve gained by including any relevant coursework and hands-on experience from your time at school.
When writing your resume, include relevant practical experience from your courses that showcases how your specific skills align with your target job’s requirements.
For example, if you completed a project in your Business Management course where you developed a detailed business plan, highlight this experience in your resume’s work experience section.
Here’s an example of a bullet point you could use:
- Developed a comprehensive business plan during Irvine Valley College’s Business Management course, including market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategies, which was praised by faculty and adopted as a model project for future classes.
2. Enhance your career with further education
Investing in continuing education is a great way to showcase your dedication and enhance your career prospects.
One method is to secure in-demand certifications within your field so you can boost your skills and open doors to advanced positions.
Certifications are a cost- and time-efficient option that allow you to demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and keep your skills up-to-date with industry standards. Earning these credentials online or from in-person courses can boost your resume and increase your job prospects.
For example, including certifications such as CompTIA A+ on your resume can help you land roles such as Network Administrator or Systems Analyst.
CNBC recently reported how earning IT certifications led to a tech job paying $125,000 for an associate degree holder, demonstrating the significant career benefits of certifications.
If you have the time and resources, a bachelor’s degree can offer even greater job stability and earning potential. Many universities even provide flexible online programs that fit various schedules.
3. Research job roles specific to your career
The list we’ve compiled of top-paying jobs you can get with a two-year degree doesn’t include all the industries that value this qualification. If you have an associate degree, you can consider opportunities in industries such as:
- Nursing
- Computer Programming
- Technology
- Engineering
- Healthcare Administration
- Paralegal Services
- Graphic Design
- Manufacturing
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
- Business Management
Come up with keywords that describe the career you want to pursue and use job search engine websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor to help you find jobs within industries that best fit your degree. Understanding the landscape of your field can help you identify the roles that align with your skills and interests.
4. Communicate your strengths and practical skills
When reaching out to potential employers, be confident in your skills and experience. Your practical training and knowledge make you a valuable asset, and many employers recognize the benefits of hiring associate degree holders.
While listing your experiences in your resume or cover letter, showcase your hands-on experience by detailing specific projects or tasks you’ve completed.
You can also highlight your ability to adapt quickly by providing examples of how you’ve successfully navigated changes or learned new skills on the job.
Additionally, emphasize your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning any additional courses or certifications you’ve pursued.
By knowing your value and effectively communicating it, you can stand out in the job market and secure a position that best matches your career goals.
Methodology
The data presented here is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), particularly from their Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupation Finder, and Employment Projections data tools and publications. Our research focused on occupations that require an associate degree, ranging from technical and vocational training to specialized associate-level education.
Our selection was based on two criteria: a minimum U.S median annual salary of $48,060, with high growth projections as well as those with more stable, little change scenarios. The occupations were then sorted in descending order of their median annual wage, and the top 10 were selected for detailed analysis. Our researchers used the most recent data available at the time of writing to ensure that the analysis reflects the current labor market trends as closely as possible.
Limitations
The study is limited to occupations in the United States and may not reflect global trends. Please note that labor market conditions are subject to change, and the data reflects the situation as of 2024.
Sources
- CNBC Make it, “30-Year-old was Laid off From her Hotel job, Now Earns $125,000 Without a Bachelor Thanks to This One Skill“
- Georgetown University – Center on Education and the Workforce, “The College Payoff“
- Indeed, “10 In-Demand Career Certifications (And How to Achieve Them)“
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment Projections“, “Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics“, & “Occupation Finder“
- U.S. News, “Accredited Online Colleges“
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Eva Chan, CPRW
Career Expert & Senior Digital PR Writer (CPRW)
Eva Chan is a Senior Digital PR Writer and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) at Resume Genius. Born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, Eva is passionate about researching and discussing the ever-changing career space and its latest trends, and channels this enthusiasm into supporting professionals of all experience levels so they stand out in a competitive job market. Eva graduated from the University of British Columbia with a bachelor’s degree in English. Eva's insights and career advice have earned recognition from leading platforms including CNBC, Harvard Business Review, The Globe and Mail, Forbes, Newsweek, and Entrepreneur. For any media-related queries or for a future quote, you can reach her at [eva] @ [resumegenius.com] or connect with her via LinkedIn. Please note that we don’t accept any guest posts.
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