Good Careers With 2 Year Degree

You’ve heard it before: a four-year college degree is not for everyone. If you’re interested in earning as much money as possible and securing a good career, perhaps you should consider getting an associate’s degree instead of an undergraduate degree. In general, employers are looking for people with these skills:

• Communication: The ability to convey information clearly will be very important in any job. You’ll need to be able to effectively communicate with your coworkers, customers, and clients.
• Critical Thinking Skills: Employers want people who can think outside of the box and solve problems creatively. Employers also want people who are able to take criticism without taking it personally and look at things objectively without becoming defensive.
• Computer Skills: Most jobs require some level of computer proficiency. Even if your job doesn’t require much typing or computer knowledge, there’s still a chance that you’ll need some basic computing skills like using email or word processing programs like Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

Good Careers With 2 Year Degree

1
Air Traffic Controllers
Median Salary
$122,990
Industry Transportation and Materials Moving
Median Annual Salary (2020) $122,990
Projected Job Growth (2018-2028) 1%
Air traffic controllers communicate with pilots, grounds crew, and fellow aviation personnel to coordinate the movement of aircraft. They remain in contact with pilots at all stages of flight, monitoring approaches, departures, and en route activities. They relay essential information about weather, flight patterns, runway closures, and potential hazards.

Air traffic controllers need an associate degree approved by an Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program. Overseen by the Federal Aviation Administration, these degrees emphasize aviation technology, air traffic control procedures, airport management, and aviation regulations. As a fast-paced and high-stress position, air traffic controllers need acute concentration, decision-making, and communication skills.

2
Radiation Therapists
Median Salary
$85,560
Industry Healthcare
Median Annual Salary (2020) $85,560
Projected Job Growth (2018-2028) 9%
Radiation therapists work with physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals to administer radiation treatments. They explain methods and protocols to patients, keep detailed records, and monitor patient reactions during and after treatment. Radiation therapists operate machines that deliver focused radiation to tumors and other cancers. They most often work in hospitals, spending long hours on their feet.

As members of radiation teams, radiation therapists need strong communication and interpersonal skills. They also need a technical understanding of radiation equipment. An associate degree in radiation therapy prepares students for entry-level positions. These programs typically facilitate certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists by blending clinical requirements with coursework in science, anatomy and physiology, and computer technology.

3
Nuclear Technicians
Median Salary
$82,080
Industry Life, Physical, and Social Science
Median Annual Salary (2020) $82,080
Projected Job Growth (2018-2028) -4%
Nuclear technicians work at nuclear energy facilities, nuclear research laboratories, and other locations where radiation and nuclear materials are present. They test for radiation contamination, monitor equipment used in nuclear experiments, and ensure adherence to safety guidelines and procedures. Most nuclear technicians work in the power generation industry, making adjustments and repairs to reactors and other equipment.

An associate degree in nuclear science or nuclear technology prepares students for this career, making it one of the highest-paid associate degrees. Students gain practical experience through internships. Nuclear technicians can advance their careers through certifications from organizations like the Nuclear Energy Institute, the American Society of Nondestructive Testing, and the National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists.

4
Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Median Salary
$77,950
Industry Healthcare
Median Annual Salary (2020) $77,950
Projected Job Growth (2018-2028) 7%
Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radioactive drugs for diagnostic and treatment purposes. They must explain medical procedures and treatments to patients, abide by safety procedures and regulations, and monitor patients for drug reactions. Most nuclear medicine technologists work in hospitals, but they may also serve as research assistants to nuclear scientists in laboratory settings.

Nuclear medical technologists need an associate degree from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology. Students with an associate degree in a related discipline may enter the profession by completing a certificate program from an organization like the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board.

5
Dental Hygienists
Median Salary
$76,220
Industry Healthcare
Median Annual Salary (2020) $76,220
Projected Job Growth (2018-2028) 11%
Dental hygienists provide oral care to patients. They take dental x-rays, clean teeth, inspect for oral diseases, and administer fluoride and sealant treatments. Dental hygienists work closely with dentists, reporting their findings and assisting in developing treatment plans for patients. They keep detailed records and educate patients on the best practices in oral care.

Dental hygienists need knowledge of anatomy, medical ethics, safety protocols, and periodontics. Two-year college degrees in dental hygiene accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation can prepare students for licensure as a dental hygienist.

6
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist
Median Salary
$71,670
Median Annual Salary (2020) $71,670
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologists operate scanners that use magnetic resonance technology to create diagnostic images of patients’ organs and soft tissues. They inject contrast dye into patients to produce images. Some MRI technologists begin their careers as radiologic technologists before choosing this specialty.

7
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Median Salary
$68,750
Industry Healthcare
Median Annual Salary (2020) $68,750
Projected Job Growth (2018-2028) 14%%
Diagnostic medical sonographers operate devices that use soundwaves to create images used in medical tests and procedures. Sonographers perform sonograms and ultrasounds on all parts of the body, often specializing in areas such as the abdomen, heart, or muscles. They must gather essential information for physicians, often reviewing images and reporting on any abnormalities or anomalies.

These professionals must understand anatomy and physiology, sonographic technology, and medical terminology, which they can achieve through an associate in medical sonography or a related field. Professional certifications through organizations like the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers enhance career opportunities.

8
Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
Median Salary
$68,750
9
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians
Median Salary
$66,020
10
Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians
Median Salary
$65,260