Consider an associate degree for a job that pays well and requires minimal time in school. Most associate degrees only take two years of study at a community college, but during that short time, you boost your earning potential dramatically. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, associate degree holders earn a median weekly salary of $1,058, while high school graduates make $899 by comparison. It’s important to bear in mind, however, that not all associate degrees pay equally. To help you maximize your degree’s earning potential, we ranked the highest-paying occupations that typically require an associate degree for entry-level positions. We also provided extra information on key factors like licensure requirements and projected employment growth and spoke to Blanca Villagomez, a program coordinator and counselor at UC-Irvine, for her insight into selecting an associate degree program.
Calculating Return on Investment for an Associate Degree
While there are associate degree programs that can lead to jobs with high earning potential, it’s not an across-the-board guarantee that an associate degree has a positive return on investment (ROI).
According to the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOPP), 57% of associate degree programs have a positive ROI. This means that only slightly more than half of students who earn an associate degree can expect to be fully compensated for the cost of obtaining this level of education.
The area of study a student pursues has the most significant impact on the ROI potential of an associate degree, according to FREOPP’s analysis. Associate degrees in fields like nursing, science, and business typically lead to a positive ROI, while those in fields such as liberal arts and education have a negative ROI.
Students must also be mindful of the investment part of the return on investment when deciding how much they want to pay for their associate degree. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition and fees for a two-year degree program in the 2022-23 academic year was $3,598 at public universities and $20,019 at private institutions. Even if students enter a high-paying field, if they’ve spent or borrowed a significant amount of money to pay for their associate degree, it can be more challenging to see a positive ROI.
Villagomez also reminds students that investment in education isn’t just about money; the time and energy students commit are also important. “It’s not enough to simply attend classes,” she says. “Students must also actively pursue opportunities to develop skills and knowledge outside of the classroom in order to stand out to employers in the competitive job market. It’s also crucial for students to recognize that, while certain majors may lead to jobs with higher salaries, building a successful career takes time and that financial gain is not always linear.”
The Highest-Paying Jobs You Can Get With an Associate Degree
Our ranking criteria
To save you time, we researched the earning potential of different associate degrees and narrowed down the top degrees for this guide. Our list of the highest-paying associate degrees was assembled based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. We researched over 120 degrees and selected those that had the highest median annual salary of common jobs associated with that degree. From there, we recommended the top schools at which to pursue each degree.
1. Air Traffic Controller
Median Annual Salary: $137,380
What They Do: Air traffic controllers coordinate the movement of aircraft to promote safety and efficiency in air travel. They manage the flow of aircraft into and out of the airport airspace, guide pilots during takeoff and landing, and monitor aircraft as they travel through the skies. Controllers usually manage multiple aircraft simultaneously and must make quick decisions to ensure safety. Most controllers are employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and work in control towers, approach control facilities, or en route centers.
How to Become One: People who want to become air traffic controllers typically need an associate or bachelor’s degree from an FAA-approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program. AT-CTI schools offer two- and four-year degrees that teach courses focused on subjects fundamental to aviation, such as aviation weather, airspace, clearances, and federal regulations. Due to the seriousness of the job, air traffic controllers must also meet other requirements, including passing a medical evaluation, passing the FAA pre-employment test, passing the Air Traffic Controller Specialists Skills Assessment Battery, completing a training course at the FAA Academy, and starting it before turning 31 years of age.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 1% (little or no change)
- Highest-Paying States: New Hampshire, Virginia, Minnesota, Illinois, Colorado
Top Academic Programs for Air Traffic Controllers:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Aims Community College | In-State: $82 – $130 Out-of-State: $479 |
65 |
| University of Alaska Anchorage | Resident: $234 Non-Resident: $800 |
61 |
| Tulsa Community College | Resident: $116 Non-Resident: $341 |
60 |
2. Nuclear Technician
Median Annual Salary: $101,740
What They Do: Nuclear technicians assist the work of physicists, engineers, nuclear research professionals, and nuclear energy production professionals. They operate and maintain equipment used in nuclear testing and research and monitor radiation. Much of their day-to-day work concerns safety and quality control. Nuclear technicians monitor operations to ensure they adhere to safety protocols, inspect work sites for potential hazards, test equipment to ensure it still functions properly, and communicate safety protocols to others.
How to Become One: People who want to become nuclear technicians typically need an associate degree in nuclear science. Nuclear technician degree programs usually include math, physics, and chemistry courses, as well as more technical courses in subjects like radiation and equipment management. If you do not have any prior experience in the field, you can expect on-the-job training and will likely be supervised by a more experienced technician. Some workplaces may require certification through the Nuclear Energy Institute, the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, or the National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: -1% (little or no change)
- Highest-Paying States: Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, North Carolina, New Mexico
Top Academic Programs for Nuclear Technicians:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Bismarck State College | Resident: $260 Non-Resident: $304 |
83 |
| Bellevue College | Resident: $114 Non-Resident: $315 |
98 |
| GateWay Community College | Resident: $97 Non-Resident: $372 – $518 |
110-123 |
3. Radiation Therapist
Median Annual Salary: $98,300
What They Do: Radiation therapists administer radiation therapy to patients with cancer and other diseases as prescribed by radiation oncologists. They operate technical equipment and machines, such as linear accelerators, to deliver targeted radiation therapy to the area of a tumor. The treatment radiation therapists provide can shrink or eliminate cancer or tumors, making them key members of oncology teams. Radiation therapists work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, physicians’ offices, and outpatient clinics.
How to Become One: People who want to become radiation therapists typically need an associate or bachelor’s degree. In most states, radiation therapists must be licensed or certified and must pass a national examination. Licensing requirements vary from state to state, so it’s important to check the requirements of the state where you intend to practice. Radiation therapy programs typically require two to four years of study and cover topics such as pathology, oncology, radiation physics, treatment planning, and human relations, as well as hands-on practice in the laboratory and real-world medical settings.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 2% (as fast as average)
- Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Nebraska, New York, Massachusetts
Top Academic Programs for Radiation Therapists:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Thomas Edison State University | Resident: $427 Non-Resident: $556 |
60 |
| College of Southern Nevada | Resident: $124 – $203 Non-Resident: $136 – $223 |
82 |
| Galveston College | Resident: $56 Non-Resident: $147 |
65 |
4. Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Median Annual Salary: $92,500
What They Do: Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer small doses of radioactive drugs (known as radiopharmaceuticals) and then use high-tech imaging machinery to capture images of the radioactive material in the body. These images are interpreted by physicians and used in diagnosis. In addition to administering radiopharmaceuticals for imaging purposes, nuclear medicine technologists also issue these drugs to patients as part of their disease treatment. Nuclear medicine technologists play an important role in minimizing radiation exposure to patients and staff.
How to Become One: People who want to become nuclear medicine technologists typically must complete an associate or bachelor’s degree program and, in many cases, earn a special certification or licensure. The Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists offer certification exams for students who have completed a nuclear medicine program. The career outlook for nuclear medicine technologists is good. Given that the population is aging and technology is rapidly advancing, it is likely that nuclear medicine will increasingly be used for diagnostic and disease treatment purposes.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 0% (little or no change)
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Hawaii, Oregon, Rhode Island
Top Academic Programs for Nuclear Medicine Technologists:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Prince George’s Community College | Resident: $119 – $214 Non-Resident: $316 |
68 |
| Cuyahoga Community College | Resident: $129 – $159 Non-Resident: $296 |
72 |
| Chattanooga State Community College | Resident: $185 Non-Resident: $541 |
69 |
5. Dental Hygienist
Median Annual Salary: $87,530
What They Do: A dental hygienist is like a nurse for teeth. These professionals work side by side with dentists, focusing on preventative oral health care. They provide teeth cleanings using special polishers and scrapers, examine gums, collect patients’ medical history, and educate patients on at-home oral care practices. Further, dental hygienists take x-rays of patients’ mouths, apply protective treatments such as sealant to the teeth, and assist the dentist during dental procedures by, for instance, supplying the necessary tools or assisting with anesthesia.
How to Become One: All states require dental hygienists to be licensed, though the licensing requirements differ from state to state. The minimum level of education required is an associate degree, which must be approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). In addition to required coursework in four key content areas (general education, biomedical science, dental science, and dental hygiene), accredited programs include a strong clinical component where students get hands-on training with patients.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 7% (faster than average)
- Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Alaska, District of Columbia, Oregon
Top Academic Programs for Dental Hygienists:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| University of Pittsburgh | Resident: $839 Non-Resident: $1,605 |
79 |
| New York City College of Technology | Resident: $305 Non-Resident: $620 |
66-67 |
| Virginia Peninsula Community College | Resident: $165 Non-Resident: $354 |
72 |
6. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Median Annual Salary: $84,470
What They Do: Diagnostic medical sonographers use advanced imaging technology and sound waves, called ultrasounds, to capture images of different body parts. Because ultrasound is a noninvasive diagnostic tool, it is often one of the first diagnostic steps once a disease is suspected. Diagnostic medical sonographers play an important role in obtaining and analyzing initial imaging tests that may help patients get an accurate diagnosis and start their disease treatment quickly.
How to Become One: People who want to become digital medical sonographers typically need an associate or bachelor’s degree with extensive coursework in anatomy and biology. Many employers require sonographers to have completed a professional sonography certification and training in basic life support. Certification can be obtained through several professional organizations, including the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS), Cardiovascular Credentialing International, and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Diagnostic medical sonographer jobs are expected to grow very quickly over the next decade, well above the average predicted growth.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 14% (much faster than average)
- Highest-Paying States: California, Hawaii, Oregon, Massachusetts, Connecticut
Top Academic Programs for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Joseph’s University | $683 | 66 |
| Miami Dade College | Resident: $82 Non-Resident: $331 |
77 |
| Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | Resident: $169 Non-Resident: $243 |
70 |
7. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist
Median Annual Salary: $83,740
What They Do: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists, known as MRI techs, specialize in MRI diagnostic imagery. Like radiology and sonography, MRI technology is used to get a look inside the human body to assess whether there is damage or disease present. MRI techs are experts in situating patients in the MRI machine to ensure the best images can be obtained. Once the images are ready, MRI techs help physicians interpret the images and make diagnoses. MRI techs need to be skilled at explaining the procedure to patients and helping to calm their nerves.
How to Become One: People who want to become MRI techs typically need an associate or bachelor’s degree in MRI technology in a program accredited by an agency such as the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (AMRIT), or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). After completing an MRI degree program, students can sit for the MRI tech certification exam.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 8% (faster than average)
- Highest-Paying States: California, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Hawaii
Top Academic Programs for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| San Jacinto College | In-District: $83 Out-of-District: $144 Non-Resident: $223 |
60 |
| Bay de Noc Community College | Resident: $155 Non-Resident: $231 |
67-69 |
| CBD College | $499 | 60 |
8. Respiratory Therapist
Median Annual Salary: $77,960
What They Do: Respiratory therapists treat conditions that affect the lungs and breathing. Their responsibilities include examining patients who are having trouble breathing, providing treatments such as oxygen therapy and chest physiotherapy, and monitoring patient progress. They typically work closely with physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals to help care for patients and develop treatment plans.
How to Become One: To become a respiratory therapist, you will need to earn an associate degree from a program that has been approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. Some employers even require a bachelor’s degree. These programs cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and clinical care.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 13%
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, District of Columbia, Alaska, Washington
Top Academic Programs for Respiratory Therapists:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Northcentral Technical College | Resident: $149 Non-Resident: $224 |
67 |
| Bowling Green State University | Resident: $212 Non-Resident: $333 |
62 |
| Cameron University | Resident: $236 Non-Resident: $550 |
66-67 |
9. Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologist and Technician
Median Annual Salary: $77,830
What They Do: Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians work on the maintenance, development, repair, testing, and creation of equipment used to sustain aircraft and spacecraft. They test aircraft/spacecraft under simulated conditions to identify any potential flaws or malfunctions, collect data, and perform systems readiness tests. This is a very practical, hands-on career that is well-suited to people who like to work with their hands and identify and solve mechanical problems.
How to Become One: People who want to become aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians typically need an associate degree in engineering technology or a similar field. Other areas of study closely related to aerospace engineering and operations are computer programming or robotics and machining. In addition to developing math and mechanical skills, programs in aerospace engineering and operations help students cultivate strong attention to detail and critical thinking.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 8% (faster than average)
- Highest-Paying States: Colorado, Nevada, Washington, California, Virginia
Top Academic Programs for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| New Mexico State University | In-District: $76 Out-of-District: $93 Non-Resident: $101 – $245 |
60 |
| Nashville State Community College | Resident: $185 Non-Resident: $726 |
60 |
| Eastern Florida State College | Resident: $104 Non-Resident: $406 |
64 |
10. Avionics Technician
Median Annual Salary: $77,420
What They Do: Avionics are the electronic systems used in aircraft, including radio communication devices and radar navigation systems. An avionics technician’s day-to-day responsibilities may include installing instrument panels, testing electronic instruments, reviewing flight test data for potential performance issues, and repairing malfunctioning electronic components. They are also expected to keep meticulous records of their maintenance and repair work.
How to Become One: Avionics technicians typically earn an associate degree before entering this field. The electronic systems in aircraft are more complex than they used to be, and the technology gets more advanced every year — a college education is helpful for understanding these systems and succeeding in this role. Earning additional credentials, such as the Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification, will allow you to expand your skill set and access more employment opportunities.
- Job Outlook, 2022-2032: 4% (as fast as average)
- Highest-Paying States: Maryland, California, Washington, Nevada, Hawaii
Top Academic Programs for Avionics Technicians:
| School | Tuition | # Credits to Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Vaughn College | $964 | 65 |
| San Bernardino Valley College | Resident: $46 Non-Resident: $414 |
60 |
| Enterprise State Community College | Resident: $127 Non-Resident: $254 |
72 |
Other Factors to Consider When Choosing an Associate Degree Program
Employment outlook
Predicting which jobs will see employment growth or decline isn’t always an exact science, but it can be helpful for students to consider selecting a major for their associate degree.
“I recommend that students thoroughly research the job market they’re interested in and pay attention to the projected salaries and available career advancement opportunities for their intended major,” Villagomez says. Even if a field offers high salaries, if employment is projected to experience limited growth or decline in the future, it may not be a good option, as opportunities will become more limited.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes an Occupational Outlook Handbook that offers employment projections for hundreds of jobs and career fields. Students can use this as a resource when determining what major and career path works for them.
Location
Where you live can impact what job opportunities are available and how much average salaries are. When selecting an associate degree program, consider what type of location you want to live in (urban, rural, international) and if you are willing to move, if necessary, to pursue better job opportunities and higher pay.
It’s also important to factor in the cost of living when determining the location in which you want to live and work. Many high-paying industries, like finance or tech, are concentrated in urban areas that come with a high price tag. While salaries for jobs in these locations are usually commensurate with the cost of living, it’s not always the case, especially for entry-level workers who are new to the field.
Perhaps you want to work remotely, with the freedom to live in a more affordable area, or move from place to place. This can also impact your choice of degree program, as some jobs are more conducive to remote work than others.
Employability
While there are many jobs students can pursue with an associate degree, it’s helpful for students to research what type of education will make them the most employable following graduation.
“I strongly recommend that students begin by meeting with a college or career counselor to develop an action plan that aligns with their career and educational goals,” Villagomez says. “Working with trained professionals can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty that comes with this process.”
Students can also use the BLS’s Occupational Outlook Handbook and job postings on sites like Indeed or ZipRecruiter to learn more about educational requirements for jobs that interest them. Although educational requirements can shift depending on labor trends and employer needs, a bachelor’s degree is still considered the standard minimum entry-level education requirement for many fields. One of the benefits of an associate degree is that it can help students gain educational and professional experience before they go on to earn their bachelor’s degree. Students may also find that, in order to obtain the highest-paying roles, they need an advanced degree, such as a master’s or doctorate.
Work-life balance
It’s essential to remember that employment is only one aspect of life. Before selecting a degree program and career path, students should consider how their job will impact their lives overall. For example, many high-paying jobs, such as physicians, nurse practitioners, or air traffic controllers, require long or irregular hours, consistent travel, or stressful working conditions, which may not align with students’ other plans for their lives.
As you contemplate your future, it’s wise to think about what you want your life to look like overall, not just in terms of career and salary. Establish your priorities for working hours and location, stress levels, flexibility, and room for personal growth, hobbies, and relationships. This can help you determine if a high-paying job is really the right fit for you.
Personal interests and aptitudes
Students who select a major based solely on salary potential may end up in fields for which they are not well-suited in terms of personal interests, skill level, natural aptitudes, or values and beliefs.
“That’s why, when students are selecting a major, I encourage them to consider what type of work they find fulfilling and aligns with their values,” Villagomez says. Students can use career guides and aptitude tests to help them gain an understanding of what careers might align with their abilities. They can also explore careers related to academic or extracurricular interests and hobbies.
Professional fulfillment can come in many different forms beyond a high salary, and students should consider what is most important to them before deciding which major and career path they want to pursue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an associate degree?
Associate degrees are two-year programs that enable students to advance in their academic or professional careers more quickly than is possible in a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree program. They can be used as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree or as a stand-alone degree that prepares students for diverse, entry-level positions.
Who should pursue an associate degree?
Associate degrees can be a good fit for students who want to save money on a bachelor’s degree by starting at a community college and those who want to significantly boost their earning potential in a relatively short period of time. Earning an associate degree opens doors to lucrative careers that would not be accessible with only a high school diploma.
What associate degree pays the most?
The associate degree with the highest median annual salary is air traffic control ($137,380). Other high-paying associate degrees include medical technologies such as radiation therapy ($98,300), nuclear medical technology ($92,500), diagnostic medical sonography ($84,470), and magnetic resonance imaging technology ($83,740).
How much does an associate degree cost?
The cost of an associate degree varies depending on the number of credits required to graduate, the difference between resident and non-resident tuition (if applicable), and the type of school (public/private, community college/university, and so on). According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual tuition and fees for a two-year college is $4,000 at public schools and $19,500 at private nonprofit schools.
Interested in a degree instead?
Learn more about online degrees, their start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.