An associate’s degree is ideal for building skills and knowledge efficiently, in as little as two years.
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Want to consider building multiple unrelated skill sets? It makes more sense to earn multiple associate degrees than multiple four-year degrees.
Similarly, the risk of financial waste is much less with an associate’s degree. Earning an associate degree is several times less expensive than earning a traditional bachelor’s. The payoff of pursuing this two-year degree is excellent – especially if you choose an associate degree that pays well.
RELATED: Highest Paying Degrees in Associates – Majors & Careers
How much can you earn with an associate’s degree? For the highest-paying associate degree jobs, you will find median annual salary data of more than $45,000. Our list of the highest paid associates degree jobs includes roles with median annual salaries in the $60,000, $70,000, $80,000 and $90,000 ranges. In fact, the best jobs with associates degree level of education may have median salaries approaching or exceeding the six-figure range.
For more on the best and most lucrative careers available to a professional with an associate’s degree, read on.
A Shift Toward Associate Degrees
The evolution of higher education over the past seventy years proves one thing. The best education path – in terms of value and efficiency – is in a state of constant flux.
From the fifties to the early nineties, the four-year degree reigned as the undisputed king of jumpstarting careers. Earning a bachelor’s degree affordably and effectively unlocked top-tier salaries.
RELATED: Associate Degrees: Bang for Your Education Buck
Today, the abundance of possible education paths shifts the value away from the four-year bachelor’s degree. It’s not that students aren’t pursuing bachelor’s degrees anymore. Rather, more students want to consider alternative paths.
Millennial and Generation Z workers are more likely to have side hustles and entrepreneurial pursuits. These pursuits may even replace the traditional, linear career paths that were the norm of their predecessors.
Gen X’ers are now jumping on board, too. Stay-at-home moms are starting Shopify and Etsy businesses. Dads are adopting side hustles to boost the income of their day jobs. Time is money, after all.
With all this in mind, the key to building a lucrative career seems to be adaptability. The most successful entry-level professionals are able to jump on specific skill development to capitalize on the emerging needs of the market.
In the 2020s, everything moves fast. As such, it is becoming more common for the younger generations to decide against a four-year commitment in favor of programs of study and training that prepare students for multiple tangential career paths at once.
College still provides a strong base for any aspiring professionals. Associate degrees might get you the same results more efficiently and affordably. An associates degree represents one of the best options available to build skills quickly.
RELATED: Which College Degree Is Easiest?
Our Ranking Methodology
How do you identify the best-paying associate degrees? You start by looking at the median annual salaries of jobs you can get with only an associate degree. As it turns out, there are plenty of good paying jobs with associates degree education. You just have to look at the data and be willing to keep an open mind to find them.
We organized this ranking according to the following methodology:
- Our editors consulted aggregate occupation data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- They then filtered results for salaries of $45,000 or above.
- We removed careers with poor job growth trajectories.
- Finally, we ranked the results according to the occupation’s median salary as well as higher-end salary potential.
50 Highest-Paying Associate Degree Careers
Before we dive into the ranking, there are some clear takeaways to note:
Firstly, many of the most lucrative careers listed in this resource require a high level of specialization. These jobs may not require a college education. However, they usually require considerable skill development or education.
The process of acquiring this specialized knowledge can take the form of:
- Apprenticeships
- Trade schools
- The associate’s degree program itself
Secondly, many of these high-end careers offer top-notch salaries because the skill requirement for these roles is so high. Although this list encompasses the highest-paying associate degree jobs, achieving top earning potential in these jobs may require more than an associate’s degree. To unlock the upper-percentile salaries in any one of these fields, you may need additional work experience or schooling.
Ultimately, your ability to earn the highest salary with an associate degree depends on the extent of your skills and experience.
Air Traffic Controller
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Air Traffic Control
Median Annual Salary – $124,000
Career Description
Air traffic controllers take home some of the most impressive salaries you will see for a career that does not require a bachelor’s degree. Air traffic controllers earn a six-figure median salary. The high-end air traffic controller salary, however, is indicative of the high level of responsibility required of air traffic controllers.
Air traffic controllers are the quarterbacks of the skies. An air traffic controller directs landing and taking-off procedures for all manner of aircraft. Another responsibility of an air traffic controller is to monitor all in-progress flights. Have ever wondered how thousands of planes could all take off, fly thousands of miles and land without crashing into one another? Air traffic controllers are the ones to thank. Given the importance of this role, it’s no wonder that air traffic controller is one of the best associate degree jobs.
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Career Requirements
Most air traffic controllers work for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). If you want to become an air traffic controller, you need to earn a degree accredited by the Federal Aviation Administration.
An array of institutions offer associate degree programs that are fully accredited by the Federal Aviation Administration for aspiring air traffic controllers. At some schools, an aspiring air traffic controller can complete a degree program accredited by the Federal Aviation Administration for a tuition cost of less than $20,000.
RELATED: How to Become an Air Traffic Controller: What Degree Do I Need?
This is still a fairly large expense when compared to other associate’s degree programs. However, the high salaries air traffic controllers earn balance out this expense.
If you want to consider pursuing air traffic controller leadership roles in the aviation industry after graduation, you may need a higher level of education than an associate degree. However, air traffic controllers may be able to land these promotions with only an associate’s degree once they have built a successful work history.
Computer Scientist – Full-Stack Engineer
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Computer Science in Computer Engineering
Median Salary – $120,000
Career Description
Another of the highest paying associate degrees is computer science. A degree in computer science can prepare you for any number of high-paying jobs. However, the highest paying jobs with associates degree in computer science is full-stack engineer.
If you are even somewhat familiar with the field of computer science, then you have probably heard the terms ‘front-end’ and ‘back-end’ development. A full-stack computer science professional has mastered both sides of development. Full-stack engineers employ a hybrid approach that allows them to develop both components simultaneously where possible.
The level of skill and knowledge required to pull this off is sizable. Full-stack engineers earn some of the industry’s best starting salaries. For established professionals, the upper-level salary potential is jaw-dropping, exceeding $200,000.
Career Requirements
There are few degree programs that are specialized enough to prepare students for a full-stack career in computer science. Working as a full-stack engineer requires the knowledge and skills of two separate approaches and principles, as well as a level of natural aptitude. Aspiring full-stack engineers should consider earning an associate degree in computer science with a specialization in computer engineering. In addition to a two-year degree, consider enrolling in a coding bootcamp or apprenticeship that specifically targets full-stack engineering.
RELATED: 50 Best Online Associate’s Degrees 2021
Transportation Manager
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Transportation Management
Median Salary – $92,000
Career Description
Another of the good associate degree jobs with a median annual salary above $90,000 is transportation manager.
Transportation managers direct all forms of transportation in order to maintain supply lines of large corporations and logistics operations. To accomplish this feat, they employ a variety of skills and software programs.
There are various levels of employment in the transportation operations line of work. To achieve the median annual salary of a transportation manager, though, you’re likely to need formal education. A relevant degree, such as an associate degree in transportation management, will open the doors to a management position with strong earning potential requires highly specialized knowledge of a company’s unique transportation management system software.
Even after earning an associate degree, you will need on-the-job training to find success as a transportation manager. The best transportation managers also have communication and leadership skills. They are hands-on managers comfortable with boots-on-the-ground protocols.
Career Requirements
Professionals can break into this career with an associate’ degree in transportation management. To start commanding upper-end salaries, established and aspiring transportation managers should build a sub-specialization in areas of the market such as warehousing or supply-chain technology.
Some of the best associate’s programs for transportation management allow students to begin building an area of expertise as they work toward their two-year degree. This ability to focus their education also helps students right off the bat by giving them a major leg upon entering the job market. The best-paid transportation managers have established a successful reputation in the field, as well as cultivated specialized areas of expertise.
Logistics Manager
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Logistics Management
Median Annual Salary – $92,000
Career Description
Like transportation manager, logistics manager is among the top associates degree jobs in terms of earning potential. The median annual salary for this role exceeds $90,000.
A logistic manager works in tandem with transportation management. The role of a logistics manager is to organize schedules and to ensure requirements are met in order to keep operations running smoothly. These professionals are detail-oriented masters of efficiency. Good logistics managers effectively lead teams to meet daily goals. In this sense, logistics management is as much about directing teams of professionals and freight crews as it is about directing the logistics of the larger operation.
There’s often a lot of overlap between the roles of a transportation manager and a logistics manager. In many cases, the biggest difference between these jobs is the emphasis the position places on transportation software. Generally, logistics managers focus more on the logistics of boots-on-the-ground operations. Transportation managers are more concerned with software mastery.
Career Requirements
An associate’s degree in logistics management will function as an excellent foundation for breaking into this field. The median salary range of jobs in this field makes logistics management one of the best-paid associates degrees.
Still, management-level jobs in logistics are highly competitive. You might not be able to jump straight into a logistics manager role with an associate degree in logistics. Often, logistics professionals need to build an extensive resume in a related field before landing a management position. Some logistics managers pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree program, but a more advanced degree isn’t generally required. Logistics specialists can advance their careers by gaining experience in the acquisition, storage, and distribution of goods as part of the supply chain.
Radiation Therapist
Required Salary – Associate Degree in Radiation Therapy
Median Salary – $82,000
Career Description
For radiation therapists, daily responsibilities include assisting radiologists, oncologists, and physicians in the treatment of cancer patients. A treatment plan for cancer patients often focuses specifically on identifying tumors in the patient’s body and administering various forms of therapy, including radiation therapy. Radiation treatments work to destroy cancer cells using beams of intense energy, often in the form of X-rays or protons. Radiation therapists work under the direction of physicians who treat cancer patients to administer radiation therapy.
The median annual radiation therapist salary is in the $80,000 range. How does a radiation therapist command this level of earning potential? For the best jobs for radiation therapists – the ones with the highest earning potential – you must beat out the competition.
Career Requirements
There are two main paths into a career in radiation therapy. Radiation therapists start out their careers with either a professional certification in radiation therapy or an associate’s degree. Certification is the most efficient way to get into the radiation therapist occupation. This path only requires one year to complete. However, with only a certification, you will be limited to more entry-level positions. Earning a two-year associate degree prepares students for mid-level radiation therapist positions.
Nuclear Engineering Technologist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Nuclear Engineering Technology
Median Annual Salary – $80,000
Career Description
When considering the best career choices for an associate’s degree, nuclear engineering probably doesn’t come to mind. By median annual salary, though, an associate degree in nuclear engineering technology is one of the high paying associate degrees out there.
So much of the field of nuclear science is shifting toward computer applications. Learning these computer applications can help aspiring nuclear technicians break into the field of nuclear technology.
Nuclear technicians work primarily at power plants field by nuclear materials. The work of nuclear technicians involves monitoring daily activity using various types of computer software. In mid- to upper-level nuclear technician positions, the job duties are more extensive. Nuclear technicians at these levels may research and design new power plant protocols for the following points:
- Safety
- Efficiency
- Waste management of nuclear materials
Career Requirements
The day-to-day mechanics of the nuclear technician profession emphasize highly specialized computer applications. Still, nuclear technicians need a solid base of knowledge in nuclear engineering, nuclear science and nuclear technology.
A two-year associate’s degree program in nuclear engineering technology is sufficient for entry-level nuclear technicians. Nuclear technicians who aspire to mid- to upper-level positions may need a bachelor’s degree. Some nuclear technicians pursue a master’s degree in a field like nuclear technology. Nuclear technicians in the upper reaches of the field hold a doctorate in nuclear engineering or nuclear technology.
The favorable job growth rate for nuclear technicians should generate new opportunities in this field. Thanks to the high demand in the nuclear technology field, there will likely be more mid- to upper-level opportunities for nuclear technicians with only an associate degree. For nuclear technicians in these roles, having strong management skills and impressive work history can compensate for not having a higher level of education.
Mortuary Scientist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Mortuary Science
Median Salary – $79,180
Career Description
Mortuary science deals with the posthumous handling of human bodies through funeral services. Mortuary scientists work in a variety of roles, including:
- Funeral service workers
- Funeral home workers
- Funeral service managers
- Funeral directors
Job duties of a funeral service worker include the following:
- Repairing damaged bodies for presentation during the funeral
- Consoling bereaved families
- Directing daily operations at funeral homes
The median annual salary for a funeral service worker amounts to nearly $80,000. This impressive salary indicates how uniquely demanding funeral service work is. Naturally, the higher your level of seniority as a funeral service worker, the greater your earning potential. Funeral service managers earn more than the average funeral service worker. Funeral directors have the potential to earn even more money.
You can work in the funeral services profession with only an associate degree. However, not just any associate degree will do. Funeral directors and funeral service workers must have highly specialized skills. They can acquire these skills through an associate degree in mortuary science.
Career Requirements
Earning an associate degree in mortuary science typically takes just two years. An aspiring funeral director or funeral service worker must have an aptitude for both the social and medical sciences.
Opportunities for funeral service managers are competitive. There are, after all, a limited number of funeral homes. Most professionals in this field who advance to funeral service manager or funeral director roles have in impressive resume, seniority in their organization and high levels of talent.
Elevator Installer
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Elevator Mechanics
Median Salary – $79,000
Career Description
A surprisingly high median salary makes elevator mechanics one of the top paid associates degree programs.
Ever wonder what goes into installing and maintaining those amazing elevators that are able to scale 50 floors in a minute? Elevator mechanics who specialize in the installation process are able to bring home the big bucks.
Entry-level professionals in the field hold positions beneath a managing mechanic. They use the most current technology to build elevator tracks, lifts and electrical systems.
The best installation companies will send good elevator mechanics around the world to install various types of elevators. Still, the demand for the best-performing elevators is limited. For the best installation contracts, competition is high. This fact makes the best-paying elevator installer jobs very competitive, as well. If you want to command a top-tier salary as an elevator installer, you will need to prove yourself.
Career Requirements
Aspiring elevator installers can prepare for this role in a couple of ways. Some professionals in this field receive specialized training through an apprenticeship in elevator installation. Others instead pursue professional certification as an elevator mechanics technician.
For the best positions, you will need a stronger background in the field of elevator mechanics. One of the best ways to attain the specialized training and knowledge you need is through an associate degree in elevator mechanics. An associate degree in mechanics with a specialization in elevator technology is another degree option to consider.
Electrical Repair for Powerhouse, Substation, Relay
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Industrial Technology (Electrical)
Median Annual Salary – $78,000
Career Description
Associate degrees in industrial technology and electrical repair may not be among the most popular college majors. They are, however, among the top associate degrees that pay well.
Ever wonder who maintains all the complex electrical systems behind power lines or subway stations? Line technicians work to make sure the daily operations of such technology run smoothly. These specialized professionals also repair faulty components in these electrical systems.
Electrical repair is a challenging and potentially dangerous line of work. Line technicians must scale heights to repair power lines that are high off the ground. When parts fail in subground railway units, line technicians have to climb deep down into these areas.
The higher level and more specialized your role as an electrical repair technician, the greater your earning potential. For the best salaries, you should focus on either developing a specialization in one type of maintenance or advancing to a managerial role.
Career Requirements
The minimum level of education to become a line technician is a high school diploma. Once hired, you will undergo on-the-job training. Specific training in your company’s unique protocols is important, even if you already have the knowledge and experience to repair electrical lines and systems in general.
Earning an associate degree can give your career a boost and prepare you to qualify for better (and better-paying) positions. Prospective line technicians can benefit from pursuing an associate degree in industrial technology. Some community college programs offer an emphasis in electrical repair. Completing an apprenticeship under an established line repair tech can also help you get the training you need for this role.
Fire Science Management
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Fire Science Management
Median Salary – $76,000
Career Description
It isn’t only the median annual salary that lands an associate degree in fire science on our list of good associate degrees. A fire science associate degree also allows you to make a difference.
The 10 Best Online Fire Science Degree Bachelor’s Programs
Fire science is the field of study that prepares students to be firefighters or fire science consultants. The fire science role is the most impressive median annual salaries is fire science manager. Fire science management professionals who work in managerial positions hold roles like the following:
- Fire department leader (fire chief or fire commissioner)
- Fire investigator
- Forest fire inspector
- Fire prevention specialist
In any one fire science manager role, you may hold a range of job responsibilities. Of course, management roles in fire science are competitive, since any given fire department or agency only needs so many leaders.
Career Requirements
Before you start earning an associate degree in fire science, consider acquiring some entry-level work experience in the industry. Working around something as dangerous as fire poses some serious risks. Employers often want to see a successful work history in this field before they will consider you for the kinds of managerial roles to which an associate degree is relevant.
As you start your school search and prepare to apply to college, work on cultivating this experience. Undergo specialized training or professional certification as an entry-level firefighter or fire investigator. Then pursue an associate degree in fire science management so that you’re prepared for a managerial role.
Cyber Security Specialist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Cybersecurity
Median Salary – $76,000
Career Description
Cybersecurity degrees and related areas, like information technology, information security and computer science, are all good associate’s degrees to consider.
The cybersecurity industry focuses on protecting data, privacy, and software from corruption or theft. Cybersecurity specialists ensure the safety of a company’s or individual’s digital resources from data security breaches and cyber-attacks.
The field of cybersecurity is expansive. It encompasses various areas of computer science that pertain to securing data and putting protocols in place to prevent security breaches. Cybersecurity specialists need to be proficient in each of these areas. However, most cybersecurity professionals specialize in an area like business-to-business correspondence or anti-identity theft measures. The specialized skill sets that have become prevalent in the field of cybersecurity are driving up compensation potential in this industry.
Career Requirements
How do you get started in cybersecurity? You can choose from a number of suitable entry points into this profitable career. Possible paths include the following:
- Cybersecurity professional certifications
- Apprenticeships
- Cybersecurity skill-based boot camps
- A formal college program of study
College programs in cybersecurity exist at various levels of study. An associate degree is a great starting point for a cybersecurity career. Associate degrees equip you with the basic knowledge you need for an entry-level position. This level of study can serve as a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s degree and graduate school, if you decide to advance your education.
Any major in the areas of computer science, information technology and information security can prepare students to work in cybersecurity. However, the more specialized your curriculum, the better your odds of reaching an impressive salary. Majoring in cybersecurity allows you to better master the use of software programs relevant to preventing and managing data security breaches.
We recommend looking at community colleges that offer associate degrees or concentrations in cybersecurity specifically. If you are interested in a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree program, look for cybersecurity majors or computer science programs with specializations in cybersecurity.
Dental Hygienist
Required Degree – Associate in Dental Hygiene
Median Salary – $74,000
Career Description
An Associate of Applied Science in dental hygiene is unique among the associates degrees that pay well. While the dental hygienist salary is high, this program requires more study than traditional associate degrees.
If you’ve ever been to the dentist to have your teeth cleaned or a cavity filled, you have encountered a dental hygienist. Dental hygienists are healthcare professionals. They assist dentists with examining patients and carrying out treatment plans to address and prevent dental diseases.
Dental hygienists are to dentists what surgical techs are to surgeons. A dental hygienist provides valuable support and assistance for dentists examining patients and implementing treatment plans. Often, dental hygienists take on the responsibility of educating patients about oral diseases and best practices in dental hygiene.
RELATED: Best Major for Dentist: What Major Do You Need to Be a Dentist?
The dental hygienist career is a terrific middle-ground if you are interested in dentistry but not able or willing to go to dental school. Even entry-level dental hygienists take home an impressive salary. The more experience and specialized knowledge dental hygienists have, the greater their earning potential.
Like other areas of the healthcare industry, the need for dental healthcare is steady. In fact, the dental hygienist occupation is seeing considerable job growth. That’s good news for aspiring dental hygienists. Dental hygienists enjoy high salaries even for entry-level positions. The favorable job growth rate offers opportunities for new dental hygienists. Overall, the job security for a dental hygienist career is excellent.
Career Requirements
Dental hygienists working in clinical practice need a specialized associate degree. In an associate degree program in dental hygiene, students learn about oral diseases and safety protocols for examining patients and assisting a dentist with dental procedures. Aspiring dental hygienists gain experience educating patients and helping carry out treatment plans in clinical settings. This specialized associate degree program typically takes three years to complete.
For a dental hygienist interested in primarily clinical practice, this specialized associate degree is enough to work in this career long-term. Teaching and clinical research positions for dental hygienists require a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree. Most dental hygienists are concerned with the hands-on work of cleaning teeth and assisting dentists with dental procedures and carrying out treatment plans, not with research into oral diseases and developing new methods of dental interventions.
An aspiring dental hygienist will pay a higher tuition rate for their associate degree in dental hygiene than the average associate’s degree. The average tuition cost for a dental hygiene associate degree is around $22,000 from start to graduation. Considering the lucrative median annual salary for dental hygienists and the more extensive education these programs provide, the additional expense seems reasonable.
Check out these 15 affordable degrees in dental hygiene (associate’s and beyond).
Nautical Engineering Technologist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Marine Engineering
Median Salary – $73,000
Career Description
Nautical engineering technicians and technologists assist engineers in the research and design of all manner of marine crafts. The field of nautical engineering also includes overseeing offshore operations such as oil rigs and marine research stations.
In their work, nautical engineering technologists use specialized skills and knowledge to maintain the safety and efficiency of marine operations. For example, nautical engineers and the engineering technologists that assist them might serve as consultants for off-shore oil operations. They help companies use efficient methods for drilling and ferrying staff that comply with federal guidelines.
Career Requirements
To qualify as a nautical engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in nautical engineering. However, an associate degree is sufficient for a nautical engineering technologist role.
Your local community college may not offer an associate degree in nautical engineering. A general engineering program can cover the basics. An internship or apprenticeship can help you develop specialized knowledge of nautical engineering technology.
Students who aspire to become licensed engineers will still need a bachelor’s degree. If you’re not too concerned with the title and prestige, though, having only an associate degree will put you on the path to the nautical engineering technologist median annual salary, which surpasses $70,000.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Nuclear Medicine Technology
Median Annual Salary – $72,000
Career Description
As medical technology evolves, so too does the market for highly specialized professionals. Nuclear medicine technologists put into action nuclear medicine technology for clinical patient care.
One such form of nuclear medicine technology is a medical imaging method called radiotracing. In radiotracing, a patient ingests or is injected with trace amounts of radioactive materials. Medical professionals use imaging equipment to track how these radioactive materials move and how the patient’s body processes them. Imaging tests that utilize nuclear medicine technology can help medical professionals identify diseases. Medical professionals like nuclear medicine technologists and physicians use this technique and similar approaches to make diagnoses not possible by that other methods.
Career Requirements
How do you become a nuclear medicine technologist? First, aspiring nuclear medicine technologists should complete a two-year associate degree in nuclear medicine technology program. Either through their associate degree program or after graduation, aspiring nuclear medicine technologists need to attain professional certification. The more extensive work history and specialized skills a nuclear medicine technologist acquires, the greater their earning potential.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Required degree – Associate Degree in Diagnostic Sonography
Median Salary – $72,000
Career Description
Another of the best associate degree jobs in the healthcare industry is diagnostic medical sonographer.
While nuclear medicine technologists use radioactive materials for medical imaging, diagnostic medical sonographers use sound. In diagnostic medical sonography, special imaging equipment projects sound waves to create images of the organs and tissues inside a patient’s body.
The images diagnostic medical sonographers produce are called ultrasounds or sonograms. One of the most well-known examples of the work of diagnostic medical sonographers is allowing an expecting mother to see early-development pictures of her child.
Medical professionals use the images generated through diagnostic medical sonography testing to diagnose patients. Diagnostic medical sonographers may also assist doctors in performing other diagnostic tests and medical procedures, such as ultrasound-guided biopsies.
The median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers exceeds $70,000. Pursuing specialization can help you maximize your earning potential in a diagnostic medical sonography career.
The diagnostic medical sonography specializations that can boost your annual salary the most include:
- Abdomen
- Breast
- Vascular
- Cardiac
Career Requirements
An associate degree in diagnostic sonography program can help you get started in this career. Associate degrees are sufficient for entry-level roles as diagnostic medical sonographers and to begin working toward certification in this field.
After earning your associate degree, you can start building a work history in an area of specialization that interests you. Some associate’s degree programs offer courses or areas of concentration in one or more specializations.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Magnetic Imaging Resonance Technology
Median Salary – $71,000
Career Description
Along with diagnostic medical sonographers and nuclear medicine technologists, magnetic resonance imaging technologists are healthcare professionals who can qualify for their career with only an associate degree.
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a type of diagnostic tests used to create images of the inside of the body. In magnetic resonance imaging, high-tech scanners create high-detail images of the inside of the body. What makes diagnostic tests using magnetic resonance imaging different from other imaging technology is the use of high-power magnetic waves to create the image.
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists are also called MRI technicians. MRI technicians operate magnetic resonance imaging equipment to help doctors reach diagnoses and develop a patient treatment plan.
Career Requirements
An associate’s degree is the most common path to a career in magnetic resonance imaging. Before magnetic resonance imaging technologists can qualify for full-time employment, they often need to acquire professional certification.
Web Developer
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Computer Science
Median Salary – $70,000
Career Description
Web developers bring websites to life.
- Social functionalities
- Data hosting
- Media sharing
There are so many different web programming avenues that it is difficult to master them all. The most popular programming languages for web development include HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Most web developers specialize in web development using one or two of these languages.
Career Requirements
For web developers, success has more to do with skills and results than a formal degree. There is no set degree path for web development. This career path is highly flexible. Some web developers have no formal education, while others have a graduate degree.
Earning an associate degree is a great way to prepare for this career path. An associate degree in computer science equips students with the skills they need to get started without requiring as much time or financial investment as a bachelor’s degree. For prospective web developers, the most effective associate’s degree to pursue will be a program in computer science with a focus on web development.
Earning potential for web developers depends on how effectively they master programming languages to become able to build the desired websites and functionalities. Median annual salary for web developers also depends on the extent to which they focus on front-end or back-end development. Web developers who master both approaches enjoy a massive jump in salary (see our entry on full-stack engineering above).
Engineering Technologist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Engineering Technology
Median Annual Salary – $67,000
Career Description
Careers in the engineering services pay well and have the potential for high job satisfaction. Unfortunately, you can’t be an engineer with only an associate degree; you would need at least a bachelor’s degree. You can, however, leverage an associate degree to work as an engineering technician or technologist.
An engineering technologist takes engineering into the mainstream. Engineering technicians implement complex engineering principles or techniques into products or organizations. Engineering technicians may help the manufacturers improve their products. For example, an engineering technician may help a coffee machine manufacturer make their product quieter, faster, less wasteful and more affordable to produce.
Being able to apply engineering technologies to a variety of products, processes and organizations is a skill in high demand. Any industry that might benefit from the creative problem-solving of an engineer may employ engineering technicians.
Engineering technologists work in an astounding variety of environments and disciplines of engineering. Electronics engineering technicians work with electronic and electrical equipment and bring to fruition the designs of electrical engineers. Mechanical engineering technicians work with mechanical engineers. Environmental engineering technicians support the work of environmental engineers. Aerospace engineering technicians support the work of aerospace engineers.
Several types of engineering technicians have landed individual sports on our list of the highest-paying associate degree jobs.
Career Requirements
Either an associate’s degree program or a bachelor’s program can prepare students for entry-level technician careers in the engineering technologies. Starting with an associate degree allows engineering technicians to more quickly acquire entry-level skills that they can apply to work in the engineering services. From there, engineering technicians can either pursue bachelor’s degrees or build their expertise through work experience and on-the-job training.
The more advanced and specialized skills engineering technicians possess, the higher their annual salary.
Applied Behavior Analysis Assistant
Required Degree – Bachelor’s / Board Certified BCaBA Certification
Median Salary – $65,000
Career Description
Behavior analysis is a massive industry. Professionals in this field work in industries ranging from sports to the medical field to corporate human resources.
A sub-specialization of this profession is applied behavior analysis. Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs) are trained to evaluate behavior according to very specific testing procedures and protocols.
Some applied behavior analysis assistants work with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in private healthcare facilities, monitoring behavior and analyzing test results. Others work in hospitals, administering tests to patients with brain trauma. BCaBAs may also work in a consulting capacity. They may, for example, assist in testing the results of a new drug or supplement intended to alter brain function.
Career Requirements
You need more than an associate degree for this career path. A Board-Certified Assistant Applied Behavior Analyst must have at least a bachelor’s degree. That degree, however, can be in any discipline.
Despite the need for a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree is an excellent starting place for a BCaBA career. Because a specific major isn’t required, it’s easy to transfer from an associate degree program at a community college to a bachelor’s program (in any major) at a four-year school. If you want to qualify for the BCaBA credential, you need to complete an accredited BCaBA certification course and pass the certification exam.
Electronics Engineering Technologist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Engineering Technology in Electronics Technology
Median Salary – $64,000
Career Description
Electronics engineering technology is one of the specialized fields of engineering technology. Electronic engineering technicians focus onelectronic and electrical engineering technology. Electronics engineering technicians and electrical engineering technicians work closely with electronics engineers and electrical engineers, respectively. They assist in the design and development of electronic components and devices, including instrument panels and other types of electronic and electrical engineering technology.
If you’re wondering why electronics engineering technicians and electrical engineering technicians rank lower on our list than engineering technicians in general, it’s because that category encompasses a variety of specialized engineering technicians. Some of these roles in engineering technology are harder to obtain, and thus more lucrative, than others.
Still, electronics engineering technicians and electrical engineering technicians are well-compensated for their work. A degree in electronics and electrical engineering technology remains one of the highest-paying associate degrees. Electronics engineering technicians can earn even higher annual salaries if they specialize in certain types of electronics engineering – particularly industrial electronics.
Career Requirements
For aspiring electronics engineering technicians who already have a background in working on electrical systems, little or no further formal schooling is necessary. Trained electricians often make the switch to roles as electronics engineering technicians. Earning an associate degree in engineering technology is a good option for aspiring engineering technicians who still need to develop their electrical skills and cultivate a background in electrical work.
Avionics Technology Technician
Degree Requirements – Associate Degree in Avionics, Aeronautics or Aviation Electronics Technology
Median Salary – $64,000
Career Description
Another of the highest paying associate degree jobs is avionics technician. The avionics technician salary of $64,000 lands this occupation a spot on our rankings list.
Aviation technology encompasses the operation and maintenance of aircraft. Work in the field of aviation technology may include aircraft navigation equipment and aircraft structures.
The broad responsibilities of avionics technicians are similar to a mechanic but focus on planes and aircraft. The exact duties of the avionics technician profession vary from technician to technician. Factors that affect the job duties of an avionics technician include the type of certification they hold. This certification establishes which types of aircraft avionics technicians are qualified to work on and what maintenance methods they can employ.
Even entry-level avionics technicians enjoy solid annual salaries. The more certifications avionics technicians hold and the more extensive their level of specialization, the higher their earning potential. With an extensive work history and professional credentials, avionics technicians can earn six-figure annual salaries.
Career Requirements
Before you start working toward a career as an avionics technician, you need to make some choices. What type of machines do you want to work with? What maintenance methods would you like to develop skills in? Answering these questions is the first step to deciding what certifications you need for the avionics maintenance work you would like to do.
Fast-paced aviation maintenance technology certification programs can train new mechanics to enter the job market as quickly as possible. If you don’t already have a background in using aviation software, though, you may need some more extensive training. Associate degrees are popular career preparation paths for avionics technicians, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported.
Cardiovascular Technologist
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Cardiovascular Technology
Median Salary – $64,000
Career Description
As our list has shown, the medical field encompasses several of the highest-paying associate degree jobs. Cardiovascular technologists are among these careers.
Heart disease is a major problem around the world. Cardiovascular physicians – heart doctors – use a number of diagnostic approaches to assess a patient’s heart health and develop treatment plans. At the center of this effort are cardiovascular technologists.
Cardiovascular technicians, or cardiovascular techs, offer critical support to physicians making decisions about patient care. Computer software, diagnostic instruments and medical imaging technology are among the tools and methods cardiovascular technologists use to provide cardiologists and other healthcare providers with the information they need about a patient’s heart health.
Cardiovascular techs usually work in hospitals. They can also work in research facilities that target the development of new medical technology.
Career Requirements
To land a job as a cardiovascular technician, you need the right professional certifications. Cardiovascular technologists may pursue these certifications in the course of earning an associate degree in cardiovascular technology or as a separate endeavor.
Most cardiovascular technologists prepare for this role in the healthcare industry through an associate’s program in cardiovascular technology.
Cardiovascular tech is a profitable career for workers with only an associate degree. Cardiovascular technologists who specialize report the highest earnings. Areas of specialization for cardiovascular technologists include cardiac catheterization, electrocardiogram (EKG) testing and pulmonary function.
Electro-Mechanical Technician
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Electro-Mechanics
Median Salary – $64,000
Career Description
The electro-mechanical technician salary in the range of $60,000 lands this career a spot among the highest-paying associate degree jobs.
The field of electromechanics is concerned with designing, maintaining, and operating mechanical equipment.
Recent developments in the industry have shifted the market’s focus. Today, electro-mechanical technicians operate unmanned, automated and robotic electromechanical equipment.
Electro-mechanical technicians make sure machines and mechanical equipment are working properly. If these machines are not working, electro-mechanical technicians implement action plans to fix them.
Technicians with a background in electro-mechanical technology find work in a variety of environments. Any environment that utilizes machines or mechanical equipment may have a need for skilled electro-mechanical technicians.
As an electro-mechanical technician cultivates work experience and specialized skills, they can move up in this career.
Career Requirements
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the most common background of entry-level electro-mechanical technicians is an associate degree. Electro-mechanics is the most relevant field o study for this high-paying career. Other career options include professional diploma programs, apprenticeships and bachelor’s programs in electro-mechanics.
Crane Operator
Required Degree – Apprenticeship; Journeyman Certification
Median Salary – $63,000
Career Description
You could make a career out of operating equipment used for construction and heavy lifting. Crane operator may seem like a straightforward career, but operating heavy machinery can be dangerous. A two-year college program can help prepare you for this occupation, which is one of the highest-paying associate degree jobs.
Crane operators work in a variety of settings but most commonly on large-scale construction sites. The heavy responsibilities – and risks – of operating such large pieces of machinery are what make the median annual salary for crane operators so high. With more experience, crane operators can become qualified to take on jobs that require higher levels of skill and operate more highly technical equipment. This allows them to work on higher-paying jobs and bring home more money.
Career Requirements
There aren’t a lot of hoops to jump through to prepare for career in crane operation. As long as you have a high school diploma, you can pursue a crane operation apprenticeship program or associate degree at a local community college. This education allows you to earn your Journeyman certificate. From there, crane operators looking to expand their skill set can develop their capabilities through on-the-job training. You can also enroll in specialized apprenticeship programs and professional development courses offered by unions.
Network Administrator
Required Degree – Associate Degree in Network Administration
Median Salary – $62,000
Career Description
The computer technology field is home to yet another of the highest-paying associate degrees: network administration.
Network administrators set up, maintain and troubleshoot computer network connections. Businesses and organizations in all industries rely on a computer network for both internal and external operations and communications. By solving network problems – both in the troubleshooting sense and the sense of planning to meet organizations’ computer network needs – network administrators play an important role in keeping organizations running smoothly.
Network administrators may work in any setting where computer systems and a computer network are found. Some network administrators work in groups with other information technology professionals. Others work independently. The technical skills to solve network problems and manage computer systems are essential to success in this role. Soft skills matter, too. Most employers prefer to hire network administrators who have strong communication skills and work well with others.
Network administration is a highly skill-based profession. Although the median annual salary for this job is high, compensation depends on having expertise you can demonstrate. Enhancing your skill set can