12 high paying jobs you can get with an associate degree
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Key takeaways
Picture this: In just two years, you could be walking into a career that pays well above the national average. Associate degree programs can save you time and money compared to a four‑year degree while also opening doors to roles that are stable, respected, and often pay six figures. In this guide, we’ll explore high paying associate degree jobs with 2024 BLS salary data, easy‑to‑understand job descriptions, and clear tips on how to advance, so you can find the path that matches your goals and lifestyle.
The best high paying jobs with an associate degree
1) Air traffic controller
Air traffic controllers are responsible for directing the safe movement of aircraft in the air and on the ground. They monitor radar, communicate with pilots, and coordinate takeoffs and landings to prevent collisions.
Median pay: $144,580
Entry path: Typically requires an associate degree, completion of the FAA Academy, and passing strict medical and background checks. Applicants must be under age 31 when accepted.
Level up: Earning top scores on FAA tests, being open to relocation, or bringing prior experience such as military aviation training can improve hiring chances and advancement.
2) Nuclear technician
Nuclear technicians operate and maintain nuclear equipment, measure radiation levels, and assist engineers and scientists in laboratories and power plants. They play a key role in ensuring safety standards are met.
Median pay: $104,240
Entry path: Requires an associate degree in nuclear science or nuclear technology, followed by extensive on-the-job training.
Level up: Earning certifications in radiation safety or advancing to licensed reactor operator roles can open higher-paying positions and greater responsibility.
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3) Radiation therapist
Radiation therapists deliver targeted radiation treatments to cancer patients. They set up and operate machines, position patients correctly, and work alongside oncologists to make sure treatment plans are followed safely.
Median pay: $101,990
Entry path: Requires an associate or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy plus state licensure in most areas.
Level up: Gaining experience with treatment planning software, specializing in advanced oncology techniques, or moving into lead therapist roles can lead to higher pay and more responsibility.
4) Nuclear medicine technologist
Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and give patients small doses of radioactive drugs, then use imaging machines to see how the body processes them. Their work helps doctors diagnose and treat conditions.
Median pay: $97,020
Entry path: Requires an associate degree in nuclear medicine technology, plus state licensure in some areas.
Level up: Adding PET/CT or MRI certifications or cross-training in additional imaging techniques can expand job opportunities and increase earning potential.
5) Dental hygienist
Dental hygienists clean and polish teeth, take dental X-rays, and guide patients on proper oral health habits. They play a key role in preventative care and patient education.
Median pay: $94,260
Entry path: Requires an associate degree in dental hygiene, which usually takes about three years, plus passing state licensing exams.
Level up: Adding local anesthesia certification, pursuing expanded function credentials, or working in high-demand clinics can boost hourly rates and career flexibility.
6) Web developer
Web developers design, code, and maintain websites and web applications. They combine technical skills with design awareness to create sites that work smoothly and look appealing.
Median pay: $95,380
Entry path: An associate degree in web development or computer science plus a strong portfolio of projects can help you land your first role.
Level up: Building advanced skills in areas like e-commerce platforms, cybersecurity, or web accessibility — and showing them through real projects — can make you more competitive and increase your earning potential.
7) Diagnostic medical sonographer
Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound machines to create images of internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. These images help doctors detect, monitor, and diagnose medical conditions.
Median pay: $89,340
Entry path: Requires an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography and passing registry exams; some states also require licensure.
Level up: Gaining certifications in specialties such as vascular, obstetric/gynecologic, or cardiac sonography can increase pay, provide more shift options, and broaden career opportunities.
8) MRI technologist
MRI technologists use magnetic resonance imaging machines to capture detailed internal images of the body. They prepare patients, ensure safety, and work closely with radiologists to interpret scans.
Median pay: $78,980
Entry path: Requires an associate degree in radiologic or MRI technology plus ARRT credentials.
Level up: Specializing in advanced areas such as cardiac or neurological MRI, or moving into lead technologist roles, can increase salaries and career opportunities.
9) Respiratory therapist
Respiratory therapists care for patients who have trouble breathing due to conditions like asthma, pneumonia, or chronic lung disease. They operate ventilators, deliver breathing treatments, and monitor patients’ progress.
Median pay: $80,450
Entry path: Requires an associate degree in respiratory therapy and passing a state licensing exam. Training programs include hands-on clinical practice.
Level up: Pursuing neonatal or pediatric respiratory care certifications, or working in intensive care settings, can raise salaries and lead to senior roles.
10) Electrical & electronics engineering technician
Electrical and electronics engineering technicians work alongside engineers to design, build, test, and maintain electrical systems and devices. They may set up equipment, run experiments, and troubleshoot issues in labs, factories, or utility plants.
Median pay: $77,180
Entry path: Requires an associate degree in electrical or electronics engineering technology, often with hands-on lab work.
Level up: Developing skills in programmable logic controllers (PLCs), power distribution systems, or advanced testing and quality control can make you stand out and qualify for higher-paying roles.
11) Registered nurse (ADN‑to‑RN pathway)
Registered nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, give medications, assist in procedures, and educate patients and families about health conditions. They are often the primary point of contact for patients in hospitals and clinics.
Median pay: $93,600
Entry path: Start with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a two-to-three year program focused on clinical and classroom training. Graduates then take the NCLEX-RN exam to earn a nursing license. While some employers prefer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), many nurses start with an ADN and later complete an RN-to-BSN program while already working.
Level up: Gaining certifications in specialties such as critical care (ICU), pediatrics, or surgical nursing can boost pay. Moving into charge nurse or management positions also opens opportunities for higher salaries and leadership roles.
12) Paralegal/legal assistant
Paralegals work under the supervision of lawyers to draft contracts, prepare case files, and conduct research. They help keep legal practices efficient and organized.
Median pay: $61,010
Entry path: Typically requires an associate degree in paralegal studies or a certificate program, sometimes paired with on-the-job training.
Level up: Developing expertise in e-discovery, litigation support software, or corporate compliance can lead to higher pay and better job prospects.
How to choose a program that pays
When weighing different associate programs, here are five clear steps to help you pick the right path:
Confirm licensing requirements. Make sure the program prepares you for any mandatory exams (NCLEX‑RN, FAA training, ARRT boards, or state licenses).
Look for built‑in experience. Programs that include clinical rotations, externships, or employer partnerships make it easier to land a job quickly.
Run the ROI math. Compare the total cost of tuition to your expected first‑year salary. Many associate programs can pay for themselves within 12 to 24 months.
Check local demand. Search job boards in your area — some careers, like dental hygiene or medical imaging, pay more in certain regions.
Add stackable credentials. Short add‑ons, such as specialty imaging or IT security certifications, can increase your skills and salary potential.
Your next steps
An associate degree may sound like no more than a stepping stone, but it can be the fastest route to a rewarding, high-paying career. By choosing programs with strong career potential and opportunities to advance, you can start earning in as little as two years.
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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.
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