The highest paying associate degrees offer a number of benefits. You can generally earn your degree after only 2 years, and you may then qualify to enter potentially lucrative fields with stable demand.
On top of this, you’ll often pay less tuition compared to a bachelors degree.
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Many associates degrees are are 2-year programs offered by a community college in preparation for a bachelors degree, but let’s take a look at some degree programs that can help get you started with a career in a thriving industry.
What Are the Highest Paying Associate Degrees?
Many of the top paid associate’s degree programs teach specialized skills in the fields of technology, healthcare, and engineering.
The following programs can fulfill the educational requirements for various profitable positions. Each listing also includes related career information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you’re interested in high paying careers with associate’s degree requirements, you may want to consider the following options:
- Radiation Therapy
- Nuclear Technology
- Nuclear Medicine Technology
- Web Development
- Dental Hygiene
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Aerospace Engineering
- Aeronautics
- Electrical Engineering Technology
- Network Administration
- Radiologic Technology
- Respiratory Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Mechanical Engineering Technology
- Paralegal Studies
You may want to explore your options to decide which program is right for you.
Associates in Radiation Therapy
- Radiation Therapists
- Median Annual Salary: $82,790
- Job Outlook: 9%
Radiation therapy is one of the high paying associate degrees. Radiation therapists are medical professionals who administer radiation to help treat patients with cancer. They generally work based on the instructions of an oncologist.
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An associate’s degree in radiation therapy can help prepare you to enter this field. The program features classes on anatomy, radiation physics, oncology, patient care, and treatment planning. You’ll also render at least 15 clinical hours under a radiation therapist. Graduates can become certified radiation therapists through the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) licensing exam.
Associates in Nuclear Technology
- Nuclear Technicians
- Median Annual Salary: $99,340
- Job Outlook: -12%
Nuclear power is a major source of electricity, and the US is the largest producer of nuclear power globally, with more than 50 power plants. For maintaining and operating the equipment in these power plants, nuclear technicians are needed.
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An associate degree in nuclear technology can provide you with the knowledge base to work as a technician in a power plant. In this program, you’ll study chemistry, engineering, and physics so you can understand how nuclear technologies work. You can also receive on-the-job training as a nuclear technician at a nuclear facility, where you’ll use specialized equipment and work with radioactive materials.
Associates in Nuclear Medicine Technology
- Nuclear Medicine Technologists
- Median Annual Salary: $78,760
- Job Outlook: 8%
Nuclear medicine technology involves using small amounts of radioactive materials for medical purposes, including visualizing organs and treating diseases. As a nuclear medicine technologist, you can work directly with patients while using sophisticated equipment.
To develop the specialized training required for this position, you can pursue an associate degree in nuclear medicine technology. This program consists of academic coursework and a clinical practicum. You’ll delve into how to perform various therapeutic procedures, administer radioactive drugs safely, and generate imaging results.
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Graduates may pursue professional certification as nuclear medicine technologists and work in hospitals, clinics, and medical centers.
Associates in Web Development
- Web Developers and Digital Designers
- Median Annual Salary: $77,200
- Job Outlook: 13%
Web development is one of the most in-demand skills today because practically every organization needs a website. With an associate degree program in web development, you can learn how to build professional websites that are secure, well-designed, and based on user needs.
A large part of web development involves writing code, manipulating data, and integrating with web services and frameworks for advanced functionality. As a web development student, you can learn the fundamentals of designing webpages and testing and maintaining live websites.
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It’s common for graduates to become front-end developers, back-end developers, UX designers, and web administrators.
Associates in Dental Hygiene
- Dental Hygienists
- Median Annual Salary: $77,810
- Job Outlook: 11%
Dental hygienists are licensed health professionals who help improve patients’ oral health through non-surgical procedures, such as X-rays, teeth cleaning and polishing, and general examinations.
To become a dental hygienist, you can pursue an associate’s degree in dental hygiene, where you’ll focus on preventive care for oral health. This degree includes general science classes on anatomy and physiology along with more specialized courses on pharmacology, radiology, and oral pathology. You can also get hands-on experience with providing dental services.
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Graduates can pursue board certification as dental hygienists or enter into public health, education, and research.
Associates in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
- Median Annual Salary: $77,740
- Job Outlook: 19%
A diagnostic medical sonographer works in clinics and hospitals, and uses ultrasound waves to create images of internal body parts and organs for diagnosing and evaluating diseases. Many sonographers start out with an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography.
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This two-year degree trains you in how to use ultrasound equipment medically and analyze the results, with courses on scanning techniques, ultrasound physics, and gynecology. Aside from this, a diagnostic medical sonographer studies how to provide professional patient care and guide patients through procedures. You will generally also complete several clinical rotations to give you sound practical experience before you graduate.
Associates in Aerospace Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering Technicians
- Median Annual Salary: $73,580
- Job Outlook: 9%
Aeronautical engineers specialize in designing, building, and maintaining aviation machines, such as airplanes, missiles, satellites, and drones.
This can be a lucrative field that involves cutting-edge technology, with aeronautical engineers often specializing in either aircraft or spacecraft. Two-year associate degree programs in aerospace engineering is usually taken as a preparation for a bachelors degree in engineering. It consists of advanced classes in math, physics, and chemistry, all of which are prerequisites for a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering.
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Students also get familiar with fundamental engineering concepts while using 3D programs for simulations. Some associate degree holders opt to enter the field as aerospace engineering technicians.
Associates in Aeronautics
- Avionics Technicians
- Median Annual Salary: $69,280
- Job Outlook: 10%
If you’re fascinated by airplanes and other aircraft, then you can look into an associate’s degree in aeronautics. There are generally two types of associate aeronautics programs. One program will prepare you to get certified as a commercial pilot, while the other will focus more on the mechanics behind aircraft for future avionics technicians.
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Either way, studying aeronautics can give you direct experience with handling flight equipment and industry-grade technology, such as GPS equipment and simulators. You can also take classes on air traffic control, aviation safety, aircraft systems, and aerodynamics.
Associates in Electrical Engineering Technology
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Median Annual Salary: $63,640
- Job Outlook: 2%
With an associate’s program in electrical engineering technology, you can study the principles and designs of electronic systems. You can also learn how to develop, maintain, and repair electronic devices.
On top of this, you may get to create your own engineering drawings using software and build circuits based on schematics and programming controllers. Aside from classes on industrial safety, microprocessor fundamentals, and electrical machinery, you’ll also work on hands-on projects so you can get comfortable with applying theory to real-world projects.
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Graduates tend to become electronic technicians and engineering assistants in various industries, including manufacturing, telecommunications, computer hardware, and research.
Associates in Network Administration
- Computer Network Support Specialist
- Median Annual Salary: $62,760
- Job Outlook: 7%
If you’re interested in computer networks, then associate degree programs in network administration might suit your career goals.
Computer networks include operating systems, local area networks (LAN), and company-wide computer systems—all of which are widely used by organizations of all kinds. Studying network administration can teach you how to install, manage, and optimize computer networks, from implementing security measures to looking out for issues.
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Most network degrees are meant to prepare you for CISCO and CompTIA industry certifications. Being certified can increase your chances of working as a network administrator in functions such as IT support and information security.
Associates in Radiologic Technology
- Radiologic and MRI Technologists
- Median Annual Salary: $61,980
- Job Outlook: 9%
Radiologic technologists are an important part of medical teams because they’re in charge of creating X-ray images for patient assessment and diagnosis.
Aside from operating the equipment, radiologic technologists need to position patients correctly for imaging while following safety practices. Associate degree programs in radiologic technology can get you started on this career path. You can be exposed to foundational courses in the field, with topics such as clinical radiography, imaging, and radiographic pathology.
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You may also have plenty of opportunity to practice through laboratory modules and clinical internships. Graduates often take a licensing exam to get certified.
Associates in Respiratory Therapy
- Respiratory Therapists
- Median Annual Salary: $61,830
- Job Outlook: 23%
Respiratory therapists specialize in helping people with breathing problems. Their responsibilities can include interviewing patients, conducting diagnostic testing, and administering therapy procedures, as supervised by a physician. An associate degree in respiratory therapy can teach you the scientific knowledge and practical skills to become a respiratory therapist.
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You can take diverse classes on patient care and cardiac and pulmonary anatomy and diseases. Later on, you’ll typically go through a clinical internship, where you’ll contribute to treatment plans and work with patients across a wide range of ages. Most graduates go on to pursue licensure and become certified respiratory therapists.
Associates in Occupational Therapy
- Occupational Therapy Assistants
- Median Annual Salary: $61,730
- Job Outlook: 36%
Occupational therapy is a medical field that aims to help people who have difficulties performing day-to-day activities.
Associate programs in occupational therapy are meant for people planning to become occupational therapy assistants. Students work under the supervision of occupational therapists to help implement treatment and monitor a patient’s progress. With this associate degree, you can learn how to handle diverse patients and help them do therapeutic exercises correctly.
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The program features classes on anatomy and kinesiology, human growth and development, and occupational therapy interventions, along with extensive fieldwork in clinical settings.
Associates in Mechanical Engineering Technology
- Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Median Annual Salary: $60,460
- Job Outlook: 6%
An associate degree in mechanical engineering technology specializes in using engineering principles to build products and systems.
Product design is a major part of this degree, with students learning how to do computer-assisted drafting, modeling, and rapid prototyping. You can become familiar with how different materials and tools work together through classes on hydraulics, thermodynamics, and physics. You can also get a detailed walkthrough of the production process, including testing, maintenance, and documentation.
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The skills taught in this program are applicable to many technical fields. Graduates tend to become mechanical engineering technicians, product designers, quality control specialists, or research and development technicians.
Associates in Paralegal Studies
- Paralegals and Legal Assistants
- Median Annual Salary: $56,230
- Job Outlook: 12%
Paralegals assist attorneys in legal processes, from interviewing clients to drafting important documents to prepare for trials. To become a paralegal, you’ll likely need formal training, and a popular option is to go for an associate’s degree in paralegal studies.
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This program features several specialized classes in law—such as law office management and legal bibliography—that can help you get ready for an entry-level paralegal job. Most programs also have an internship component. All in all, you have the opportunity to develop skills in legal research and analysis and learn about fundamental areas of law, including business and family law.
Types of Associate Degrees
There’s a growing number of degree programs available, but most of them fall into these three main types.
Associate in Arts (AA Degree)
An Associate of Arts (AA) degree typically has the most diverse coursework. It includes plenty of general education classes along with humanities and social science components. Because of this, AA degrees are wide-ranging, with programs in the liberal arts, psychology, business administration, and graphic design, just to name a few.
One of its main benefits is that it teaches skills—such as communication and critical thinking—that can be applied to a wide variety of careers. Graduates may start careers in communication and media, marketing, and the creative industries, among others. Credits may also be transferred to a bachelor’s degree.
Associate in Science (AS Degree)
An Associate of Science (AS) degree is more focused on math and science, and it’s geared toward those who want to develop technical skills.
Some Associate of Science degrees include engineering science, public health, computer science, biotechnology, network engineering, and architectural studies. It’s common for people to take an AS program and then transfer the credits to a related bachelor’s degree.
On the other hand, it’s also possible to start working right after graduation. For example, some web developers, air traffic controllers, and paralegals have AS degrees in their respective fields.
Associate in Applied Science (AAS Degree)
What sets apart an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) is that it aims to help students enter the workforce as soon as they graduate. In contrast, an AA or an AS is usually more of a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree.
An Associate of Applied Science emphasizes more practical skills, usually involving technology. Some AAS programs involve training for potential network administrators, game designers, bookkeepers, respiratory therapists, and electric engineering technicians, among many other careers. Some programs even prepare you to take any necessary licensing exams afterwards.
Accreditation
It’s beneficial to choose a regionally accredited school for your associate degree. Schools become accredited once they pass certain educational standards, as reviewed by an official agency. Regional accreditation has a stricter review process and is considered the gold standard of accreditation.
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Many colleges only accept credit transfers from regionally accredited schools, and some employers may also grant your degree greater validity if your school is regionally accredited. Licensing or certification boards can also require accredited degrees. You can verify a school’s accreditation status using the database of the US Department of Education.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Every year, many associate degree students receive financial aid from the government, private organizations, and schools. The most common forms of financial aid are scholarships, grants, loans, and federal work-study programs.
Grants and scholarships are the most convenient because they can help pay off part or even all of your tuition for free. Grants tend to be need-based, while scholarships are often given based on your achievements and related experiences.
On the other hand, loans are the most common and easily accessible type of financial aid. Loans have to be paid back with interest, though, after you graduate. Finally, work-study programs help you find a part-time job to offset your tuition while you’re studying.
To apply for government financial aid, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). School websites also often contain a list of financial aid resources, including scholarships.
What Associate Degree Should I Get?
When choosing an associate degree, it’s helpful to be confident in your decision. Since finishing the degree tends to only take 2 years, you don’t have much of a chance to change your focus.
Choosing a degree ultimately depends on your career plans, personal strengths, and interests. One consideration could be whether you want to work directly after graduation or transfer your credits to a bachelor’s degree. It can also be helpful to look at career outcomes. For instance, many associates degrees that pay well are in the technology or healthcare sectors.
How Long Is an Associate Degree?
An associate degree, even a highest paying associate degree, typically takes 2 years of full-time studies to finish. It requires at least 60 credits, which is half of what’s required for a 4 year bachelors degree. Still, the time it can take you to finish is adjustable. Some programs might give you the freedom to be self-paced, which could allow you to finish faster.
For example, there are schools that follow a quarterly or bimonthly schedule with shorter class terms. If you study all year round, then you may finish in less than 2 years. On the other hand, having the flexibility to study part-time lets you to take longer to finish your degree.
What Are the Highest Paying Jobs with an Associates Degree in Technology?
Here are some high-paying associate degree jobs with majors in technology, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Software developer: Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers earn a median of $110,140 yearly as businesses become more reliant on software.
- Information security analyst: This is one of the most in-demand careers, with information security analysts earning a median of $102,600.
- Database administrator: Database administrators have median earnings of $96,710, with those in data processing and hosting services earning the most.
- Computer system analyst: Computer system analysts make a median of $99,270 annually, and job growth is especially fast in the healthcare industry.
- Network administrators: Network and computer system administrators have median earnings of $80,600, with close to 25,000 job openings estimated each year over the next decade.
If you’re looking for associate degrees that pay well, specializing in technology can potentially lead to higher earnings.
What Are the Highest Paying 2 Year Degrees in the Medical Field?
Here’s a rundown of 2-year medical degrees that pay well, along with career information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Nuclear medicine technologists: Nuclear medicine technologists are among the most highly paid medical jobs obtainable with an associate degree, with median earnings of $78,760.
- Dental hygienists: Dental hygienists earn a median of $77,810 yearly, and they may juggle working with several dentists at the same time.
- Diagnostic medical sonographers: Medical sonography is one of the 2 year degrees that pay well, with medical sonographers having yearly median earnings of $77,740.
- Respiratory therapists: Respiratory therapists make a median of $61,830, with most making between $47,380 and $95,540.
- Occupational therapy assistants: Occupational therapy is an in-demand field, and occupational therapy assistants have median earnings of $61,730.
All of these associate degree jobs also require professional certification in addition to an associate’s degree.
Is an Associate’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an associate’s degree is worth it for many professionals. Earning a college degree can increase your earning potential and help you qualify for more job opportunities, especially for fields that require technical skills.
Associate degrees are typically 2 year programs earned at a community college that can put you on the fast track to entering the workforce with qualifications and training. Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for those with a high school diploma is 6.2%, while the unemployment rate for those with an associate degree is only 4.6%.
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There’s also a number of high paying associate degree jobs with requirements in the fields of healthcare, information technology, and engineering. These positions include web developer, occupational therapy assistant, and mechanical engineering technician.
Getting Your Associate’s Degree Online
If you want to learn on your own schedule, then getting your associate’s degree online might be a convenient option for you to consider.
Online associate degrees are already widely available from accredited institutions, and they’re ideal for studying part-time while juggling other commitments. On the other hand, since online programs are often known for their flexibility and shorter course terms, earning your degree online can also be beneficial if you want to finish more quickly.
With an associate’s degree, you can choose to either enter the workforce or pursue one of the highest paying bachelors degrees. Whatever your goals are, an online associate’s degree can help you qualify for more opportunities and help you move forward with your career.
The sooner you start exploring the highest paying degrees from accredited universities, the sooner you can start your educational journey in your chosen field.
