There is a place for any type of qualification in the job market today. Do not be discouraged by the number of people who may seem to be more qualified than you. Educational qualification is just one aspect of getting a job. This article will explain 10 high-paying jobs you can get with your associate degree.
What is an Associate Degree?
An associate degree is a two-year post-secondary degree that is typically offered by community colleges and technical schools. This degree is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce in a specific field. Associate degrees are a popular option for students who want to obtain a degree in a shorter period and at a lower cost than a traditional four-year degree. In addition, many associate degree programs offer hands-on training and practical experience, which can be beneficial for students who want to gain experience in a particular field.
Ten High Paying Jobs You Can Get with an Associate Degree
Here are some high-paying jobs one can get with an associate degree;
Nuclear Technician
Nuclear technicians work in nuclear power plants, laboratories, and other facilities that utilize nuclear energy. They assist physicists, engineers, and other professionals in nuclear research and development. The median annual salary for nuclear technicians ranges from $80,000 to $85,000 The highest-paid nuclear technicians earn over $100,000 annually.
To become a nuclear technician, you typically need an associate degree in nuclear science or a related field, as well as on-the-job training.
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists work alongside dentists to provide preventive dental care, including cleanings, x-rays, and patient education. They may also assist with procedures such as fillings and extractions. The median annual salary for dental hygienists ranges from $75,000 to $80,000. The highest-paid dental hygienists earn over $100,000 annually.
To become a dental hygienist, you typically need an associate degree in dental hygiene and a state license.
Environmental Engineering Technologist
An environmental engineering technologist puts environmental engineers’ plans into action. These plans are typically concerned with controlling, preventing, eliminating, or mitigating the environmental effects caused by environmental challenges such as carbon emissions.
Their average annual salaries ranges between $50,000 to $55,000.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound technology to create images of a patient’s internal organs and tissues. They work closely with physicians to diagnose medical conditions and plan treatment. The median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers ranges between $65,000 to $70,000. The highest-paid diagnostic medical sonographers earn over $100,000 annually.
To become a diagnostic medical sonographer, you typically need an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography and professional certification.
Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapists work with radiation oncologists to administer radiation treatments to cancer patients. They operate sophisticated equipment and monitor patients’ progress during treatment. The median annual salary for radiation therapists is between $85,000 to $90,000. The highest-paid radiation therapists earn over $120,000 annually.
To become a radiation therapist, you typically need an associate degree in radiation therapy and state licensure.
Computer Network Architect
Computer network architect’s design and implement computer networks for organizations, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. They ensure that networks are secure, efficient, and scalable. The median annual salary for computer network architects is between $110,000 to $120,000. The highest-paid computer network architects earn over $166,000 annually.
To become a computer network architect, you typically need an associate degree in computer science or a related field, as well as professional certification.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Nuclear medicine technologists are experts in diagnostic imaging procedures and radioactive drug equipment. A nuclear medicine technologist may administer radioactive drugs to patients orally or intravenously while keeping both the patient and themselves safe. These professionals typically specialize in radioactive drug-based diagnostic imaging, such as positron emission tomography (PET) or CT scans with radioactive isotopes.
Their average annual salaries ranges between $90,000 to $100,000
Aerospace Engineering Technician
Aerospace engineering technicians assist aerospace engineers in designing and testing aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. They may also maintain and repair equipment used in the aerospace industry. The median annual salary for aerospace engineering technicians is from $65,000 to $70,000. The highest-paid aerospace engineering technicians earn over $100,000 annually.
To become an aerospace engineering technician, you typically need an associate degree in aerospace engineering technology or a related field.
Web Developer
Web developers design and create websites and web applications. They may work on the front end (design and user interface) or back end (programming and database management) of a website. The median annual salary for web developers is $75,000 to $80,000. The highest-paid web developers earn over $140,000 annually.
To become a web developer, you typically need an associate degree in web development or a related field, as well as strong programming skills.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technician
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians assist electrical and electronics engineers in the planning and development of communications equipment, computers, medical monitoring devices, and other electrical or electric current-powered equipment.
To become an electrical and electronics engineering technician, you need an associate degree in electrical or electronics engineering technology.
Their average annual salaries range between $65,000 to $70,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Get A High Paying Job With An Associate Degree?
Yes, there are many high-paying jobs that you can get with an associate’s degree. Many of these jobs are in the healthcare and engineering fields.
How Long Does It Take To Earn An Associate Degree?
An associate degree typically takes two years to complete, although some programs may take longer.
How Much Does It Cost To Earn An Associate Degree?
The cost of earning an associate degree varies depending on several factors, such as the type of institution you attend (public or private), your location, and whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Furthermore, according to the College Board’s “Trends in College Pricing” report for the 2021-2022 academic year, the average annual tuition and fees for full-time, in-state students at public two-year institutions (community colleges) is $3,890. This means that the total cost of earning an associate degree from a public community college would be around $7,780 (assuming it takes two years to complete the degree).
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