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24 Highest Paying Associate Degree Jobs
HomeCareers 24 Highest Paying Associate Degree Jobs
When someone says “college,” what comes to mind? If you’re like most people, you probably think about four-year programs. However, there are many alternatives to the four-year approach. Associate degree jobs are booming and represent a popular, lucrative alternative path.
One of the most attractive alternatives to a bachelor’s degree is an associate degree. These programs offer fast, and often more affordable routes for education, making them a popular choice, especially among non-traditional students.
There are reasonable questions that arise with associate degrees. Do good associate degree jobs exist? What fields offer jobs you can get with an associate’s degree? Are they satisfying and financially rewarding? The answer is a resounding “yes!”
In general, you can step immediately from school to the work force and make a sizable income. The highest paying associate degree can result in a six figure salary. From technical careers to jobs in the medical profession, we list the best 2 year degrees for landing high paying jobs below. And, they pay more than you probably think!
What is an Associate’s Degree?
Associate degrees are simply two-year degrees. Although they can take more or less time to complete, depending on the pace of study, they are generally half the workload of a four-year bachelor’s degree. They are, therefore, about half the price of a bachelor’s degree, and sometimes significantly cheaper as associate’s degrees are often provided by affordable community colleges.
These programs are generally affordable and create a significant boost to your lifetime income. According to The College Board, the annual cost of attending a public two-year in-district school is $3,660. This number, however, does not take into account room and board, as well as other costs associated with attending school. Assuming graduation in two years, this means the tuition for attending a public program is roughly $7,320.
According to the BLS, the median salary for someone with “some college or associate degree” was $825 per week in the second quarter of 2018, translating into an annual salary of $42,900 (assuming 52 weeks of pay a year). High school graduates with no college earn a median salary of $726 a week, for an annual salary of $37,752. In this example, this results in an annual gain of $5,148 if you have no college education and were to complete your associate’s degree.
This means you could pay for tuition of an associate’s degree program in less than a 16 months. This does not, however, account for the cost of living while attending college, nor the potential lost wages that you might not be able to earn while completing an associate’s degree.
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- East Mississippi Community College Associate of Applied Science in Accounting Technology
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VIEW ALL ASSOCIATE DEGREES
Types of Associate Degrees
There are three specific types of associates degrees. Each one has its own qualities and advantages, as well as drawbacks.
Associate in Arts (AA)
An AA degree is usually the most broad, and therefore the least specific, of all the associated arts degrees. During the AA program, students will take wide-ranging courses that can include introductions to history, art, literature, music, business, writing, and communication. The main advantage of an associate in arts degree is that it does not limit the graduate to a certain path, meaning they have access to several types of AA degree jobs.
Associate in Science (AS)
An AS degree is still broad, but it has more specificity than an associate in arts. These types of degrees are generally chosen if the student intends to pursue further education in an area that includes science, such as nursing or engineering.
Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
An AAS degree is a highly-specific education path, usually technical, that focuses on a single career field. Students who want to get an education and jump immediately into a specific career will want to consider an associate in applied science. Popular associate’s in applied science programs include:
- Accounting
- Web development & design
- Nursing
- Paralegal
- Teaching assistant
- Respiratory care
Why Choose an Associate Degree?
There are many reasons that people choose an associate degree, but it really boils down to two major motivations: a faster education, and a cheaper price tag.
Associate degrees are two-year degrees, so for someone who wants to get in, get out, and get to work, they are excellent options, especially the associate in applied science degree. While bachelor degree studies can take four years or more, and earning a doctorate can take a decade of focused education, an associates degree can take less than two years if you take summer courses! Additionally, because associate degrees are often taught at community colleges, the per-semester price can be a fraction of the cost compared to major universities and private colleges.
Flexibility is also a popular motivation for earning an associate degree. Many on-campus and online associate degree programs work for non-traditional students; people with families, jobs, and busy schedules who can’t take classes at, for example, 9:00 am on a Tuesday. Instead, they need classes taught on the evenings, the weekends, or asynchronously online. An associate degree fills this need.
24 Highest Paying Associate Degree Jobs
So what careers with an associate’s degree are actually available? We analyzed employment and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data to find the 24 best associate degree careers taking salary, growth, and number of jobs into account. Many of these require the specific training of an associate of applied science degree, but some allow the broad education of an associate of arts degree. These jobs make an associates degree a wise decision.
- Air Traffic ControllerSalary: $124,540
Job Outlook: 3%
Number of Jobs: 24,900By directing the flow of traffic through our nation’s airports, air traffic controllers help maintain the safety efficiency, and effectiveness of air travel. They issue landing and takeoff instructions and monitor the movement of planes on the ground and in the air. While many of the positions suggest a four-year degree, air traffic controller schools offer two-year associate degrees that focus specifically on the career.Popular Pick: Associate of Science in Aeronautics from Embry Riddle Aeronautical UniversityVIEW MORE DEGREES - Computer ProgrammerSalary: $82,240
Job Outlook: -8%
Number of Jobs: 294,900Computer applications and software need proper code in order to function. It’s the job of a computer programmer to create this code. While many programmers will have a bachelor’s degree, you will certainly find employers who are willing to hire someone with an associate degree. The position, however, is expected to decline by 8%, losing as many as 22,600 jobs between 2016 and 2026. (But there are nearly 300,000 jobs, so opportunities are there.)Sponsored Pick: Associate of Science in Software Development from Champlain CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Radiation TherapistSalary: $80,570
Job Outlook: 13%
Number of Jobs: 19,100Working as a radiation therapist, you will treat cancer and other diseases using radiation treatments. These professionals generally work in hospitals, but they can also be found in physician offices and outpatient centers. Not only does this job command a salary of $80,570, it also has excellent expected job growth.Popular Pick: Associate in Applied Science in Radiation Therapy from Amarillo CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Nuclear TechnicianSalary: $80,370
Job Outlook: 1%
Number of Jobs: 6,900These highly-trained professionals assist in nuclear research and energy production by operating special equipment. They may monitor radiation levels, assist engineers, or work with physicists to create safe, reliable nuclear energy. In most cases, nuclear technicians will need an associate’s degree in nuclear science or a related technology, but expect a minimal growth of only 1% in demand.Popular Pick: Associate in Applied Science in Nuclear Technology from Lakeshore Technical CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Nuclear Medicine TechnologistSalary: $75,660
Job Outlook: 10%
Number of Jobs: 20,100This profession works in medical imaging, using safe dose of radiation to generate information on a patient’s body, which then can be used by doctors to diagnose or administer treatments. This career usually requires an associate’s degree from an accredited nuclear technology program. At 10% expected growth, it should be a steady and well-paying career.Popular Pick: Associate in Science in Radiology Technology from Barton County Community CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Dental HygienistSalary: $74,070
Job Outlook: 20%
Number of Jobs: 207,900As a dental hygienist, you’ll be responsible for cleaning teeth, talking to patients about proper dental hygiene, and assisting the dentist in whatever form is required. According the the BLS, all states require proper licensing and the career will grow by a potential 20% between 2016 and 2026.Popular Pick: Associate in Science in Dentistry from Barton County Community CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Registered NurseSalary: $70,000
Job Outlook: 15%
Number of Jobs: 2,955,200A bachelor’s level education is a common choice, but an Associate Degree in Nursing, or ADN, is a faster and more affordable option. Although many nurses will eventually move on to the four-year degree, a two-year program will help land a job and gain valuable experience.Popular Pick: Associate of Science in Nursing from Excelsior CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Web DeveloperSalary: $67,990
Job Outlook: 15%
Number of Jobs: 162,900If you have a knack for computers and complex coding, you could make a substantial income with only a two-year degree. Web developers generally need an associate degree, and the career field is expected to grow by 13%, so your services will likely be in high demand.Sponsored Pick: Associate of Science in Web Programming from Rasmussen CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Aerospace Engineering TechnicianSalary: $67,240
Job Outlook: 7%
Number of Jobs: 12,100Using computer-based modeling, robotics, and automation, aerospace technicians maintain the equipment that is used in air and spacecraft. They work with engineers and operators to implement test procedures, and they can also be involved in the design and construction of test facilities.Popular Pick: Associate of Science in Aeronautics from Embry Riddle Aeronautical UniversityVIEW MORE DEGREES - Medical SonographerSalary: $65,620
Job Outlook: 17%
Number of Jobs: 122,300Using special imaging equipment, medical sonographers create images of the body that can be used by physicians to assess and diagnose patients. A sonographer will be specially trained in the use of an ultrasonic imaging device, which uses sound waves and vibrations to create an image of a specified organ.Popular Pick: Associate of Applied Science in Polysomnographic Technology from Oregon Institute of TechnologyVIEW MORE DEGREES - Electronic Engineering TechnicianSalary: $63,660
Job Outlook: 2%
Number of Jobs: 137,000Working directly with the physical technology of electronics, these professionals help design a wide range of equipment, including navigational devices, electrical components, medical technology, and communications tools. With the right associate degree, someone can work in this field for both the government and private companies.Popular Pick: Associate of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology from South CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Police OfficerSalary: $62,690
Job Outlook: 7%
Number of Jobs: 807,000By protecting lives and property, police officers allow our society to function properly. The work can be physically and emotionally demanding, as well as dangerous, but it can also be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. The job prospects are also expected to be good in the near future, with a 7% growth between 2016 and 2026.Popular Pick: Associate of Science in Law Enforcement from Missouri Southern State UniversityVIEW MORE DEGREES - Avionics TechnicianSalary: $61,270
Job Outlook: 5%
Number of Jobs: 149,500These are the repair and maintenance technicians of the air-travel industry. They work in hangars, repair stations, and airfields, helping to ensure that the airplanes are properly maintained and ready for takeoff and (even more important!) a safe landing. Although the pay is excellent, there is only an expected job growth of 5%, which is slightly under the national average.Popular Pick: Associate in Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance from Vaughn College of Aeronautics and TechnologyVIEW MORE DEGREES - Radiologic & MRI TechnologistSalary: $60,070
Job Outlook: 13%
Number of Jobs: 241,700Working in hospitals and clinics, radiation therapists treat cancer and other diseases through the use of radiation treatments. In most states, they must be properly licensed or certified, but educational training often requires only an associate degree program. The career is expected to grow by 13% in the near future, making it stable and profitable.Popular Pick: Associate in Science in Radiology Technology from Barton County Community CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Respiratory TherapistSalary: $59,710
Job Outlook: 23%
Number of Jobs: 130,200When you hear the term “respiratory therapist,” think “helping people breathe.” This, quite literally, the the job description, as people in this field help anyone with a lung problem, including disease or injury, get the oxygen they need. With good pay and an expected job growth of 23%, this is a fantastic career opportunity.Popular Pick: Associate of Science in Physical Therapy from Barton Community CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Electro-Mechanical TechnicianSalary: $56,740
Job Outlook: 4%
Number of Jobs: 13,800Combining a deep knowledge of electrical systems and mechanical processes, these professionals are involved with the maintenance and operation of a wide variety of equipment. They are employed in many different industries, including manufacturing, engineering services, and transportation, giving graduates the chance to work in various settings.Sponsored Pick: Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology from ECPI UniversityVIEW MORE DEGREES - Occupational AssistantSalary: $56,690
Job Outlook: 28%
Number of Jobs: 46,800When people need help developing or recovering the skills required for daily living, occupational therapists are put to work. Their assistants and aides help achieve these goals by performing support duties such as assisting with stretches and encouraging patients to complete activities.Popular Pick: Associate in Science in Physical Therapy from Barton County Community CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Mechanical Engineering TechniciansSalary: $55,360
Job Outlook: 5%
Number of Jobs: 46,100These professionals assist in the design and creation of manufacturing devices, such as tool, machines, and motors. Duties can range from sketches to recording and analyzing data, as well as reporting the findings to mechanical engineers and other industry leaders.Sponsored Pick: Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology from ECPI UniversityVIEW MORE DEGREES - Telecom InstallerSalary: $53,880
Job Outlook: -8%
Number of Jobs: 237,600The responsibilities of this job require you to maintain and repair any equipment that carries communication. This can include internet connections, telephone lines, and communication devices. Some will work with homeowners while others may serve the commercial sector. The demand for this career has dropped, however, because many people are going wireless, which often requires less service, maintenance, and repair.Sponsored Pick: Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology / Networking from Purdue University GlobalVIEW MORE DEGREES - Funeral Service WorkerSalary: $53,550
Job Outlook: 5%
Number of Jobs: 54,400This career combines training in ethics, science, law, and many other areas, but it is possible to enter the position of a funeral service worker with as little as an associate degree. This position requires a flexible schedule, as many people in this career will work evenings and weekends, often well beyond an eight-hour work day.Sponsored Pick: Could not look up school using “23944”! from Penn Foster CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - DrafterSalary: $53,480
Job Outlook: 7%
Number of Jobs: 207,700Using software to create technical drawings, drafters are essential for the design and engineering of items as small as microchips and as large as skyscrapers. The position requires highly-specific training, which can usually be acquired through a two-year degree. While most of the work in done in an office, drafters will visit job sites and collaborate with other team members on a regular basis.Popular Pick: Associate in Applied Science in Computer Aided Drafting & Design from Ridgewater CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - Computer Network SpecialistSalary: $52,160
Job Outlook: 10%
Number of Jobs: 835,300Nearly every organization and business uses a network of computers, and they call on computer support specialists to keep the system running properly. While some of the positions may require a bachelor’s degree, specific training in an associate degree program is often enough to launch this career.Sponsored Pick: Associate of Science in Network Systems Administration from Rasmussen CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES - ParalegalSalary: $49,500
Job Outlook: 15%
Number of Jobs: 285,600Not only is the career of a paralegal very profitable, it generally requires only an associate degree to enter the field. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in the legal profession, which will be beneficial if you hope to pursue a career in the legal system. The job entails many responsibilities, such as organizing files, conducting research, and drafting documents.Sponsored Pick: Associate of Science in Paralegal from American Public University SystemVIEW MORE DEGREES - HVAC InstallerSalary: $45,910
Job Outlook: 15%
Number of Jobs: 332,900These professionals work on many different heating and cooling systems, involving home and appliances. Depending on the specific training, they may work on a home’s duct and furnace system, or they may be able to repair refrigeration units. Many of the employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed an apprenticeship as well as a postsecondary education.Sponsored Pick: Could not look up school using “23944”! from Penn Foster CollegeVIEW MORE DEGREES
Associate Degree Jobs Outlook 2019 – 2020
The job outlook is changing every day, and while there are general trends that apply to all people, from minimum-wage earners to top-level executives, there are also trends that impact people specifically with associates degrees.
Wage and Benefit Increases Are Expected
As the overall economy continues to grow, most employees can expect to see a general rise in their overall wages, as well as their benefits packages. Over years past, we had seen economic growth with stagnant or lagging wage increases, but this trend appears to be breaking, as wages appear to be on the rise. A report from ADP Research Institute says that wages increased 3.4% from the fourth quarter of 2017 to the fourth quarter of 2018, demonstrating a general trend of upward increases for workers.
There is also a strong indication that with a growing economy and stronger wages, total benefits packages for employees could be enhanced as well. In an effort to attract workers and keep them for years, employers are increasing benefits and modifying jobs to be more flexible to people’s preferred lifestyles. With an increase in mobile technology and connectivity, many employers are offering remote work for their top talent, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and profits. Flexible hours are also being added, as many workers prefer to work on their own terms, during hours that fit their schedule.
Hiring May be Faster, Less Exhaustive
There is also the increased possibility of faster hiring with less demand from potential candidates. Because so many companies are experiencing an overwhelming, non-stop need for employees, they have been forced to relax minimum requirements, opting for employees who may not have been eligible in the past. This can be good news for associate degree applicants, as jobs that previously needed a bachelor’s degree may be available. Not only are requirements lowered, the hiring process is being expedited. The need for employees, as well as the adoption of hiring technology, is generally leading to a reduction in the length of the overall hiring process, which is good news for many applicants.
