Popular Associate Degree Jobs That Are In Demand

The most popular associate degree jobs are exciting and well-paying. If you’re thinking about getting an associate degree, this is a good time to do so. In the modern job market, a 4-year bachelor’s degree isn’t the sole route to landing a high-paying job.

Associate degrees, with their hands-on nature, teach you the most important skills you need to know to hit the ground running. They’re also shorter in duration and more cost-effective, making them an ideal option for many students. 

In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of 10 popular associate degree jobs that are in great demand and come with high salaries. 

Related: What is an Associate Degree?

Looking to kickstart a career with an associate’s degree? You’re in the right place. We’ve put together a selection of 2-year degrees that pay well and lead to rewarding jobs. The best part is that this list includes jobs that may pay as much as $88k a year while also offering strong career growth.

1. Dental Hygienists 

Median Annual Pay: $87,530

Demand Projection: 7% (with the average growth rate being 3% to 4% for all occupations)

Dental hygienists take care of patients’ oral health; responsibilities include cleaning teeth, examining for signs of oral diseases, and providing preventive care. To become a dental hygienist, you’ll need to get an associate degree in dental hygiene, which takes about 3 years, and licensure. 

If you’re interested in becoming a dental hygienist, you should focus on biology, chemistry, and math in high school. The median annual wage for dental hygienists is $87,530. Employment is projected to grow 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

2. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers 

Median Annual Pay: $84,470

Demand Projection: 10%

Diagnostic medical sonographers operate equipment to create images of the body, which are then used to assess and diagnose medical conditions. To join this profession, you’ll need to get an associate degree in sonography. 

In high school, it’ll be useful if you focus on classes in anatomy, physiology, physics, and math. The median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers is $84,470. Employment is projected to grow 10 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

3. Respiratory Therapists 

Median Annual Pay: $77,960

Demand Projection: 13%

Respiratory therapists work with people experiencing difficulty breathing. Their duties include diagnosis, providing treatment, aiding with breathing equipment, and monitoring progress. To become a respiratory therapist, you’ll need to hold an associate degree in respiratory theory along with licensure. 

High school students interested in applying to respiratory therapy programs should take courses in biology, algebra, chemistry, and physics. The median annual pay for respiratory therapists is $77,960 per year and employment is projected to grow by 13 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

4. Radiologic Technologists

Median Annual Pay: $73,410

Demand Projection: 6%

Radiologic technologists perform X-rays and other imaging procedures to assist with diagnosis. Duties include preparing the patient, operating the equipment to get the right images, and keeping detailed records. To become a radiologic technologist, you need an associate degree along with licensure.

In high school consider focusing on anatomy, biology, chemistry, and physics. The median annual wage for radiologic technologists and technicians is $73,410. Employment is projected to grow by 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

5. Computer Support Specialists

Median Annual Pay: $71,530

Demand Projection: 5%

Computer support specialists assist computer users by helping in resolving technical issues and offering guidance. To become a computer support specialist, you’d need an associate degree in IT. Achieving certifications like CompTIA can prove to be beneficial.

In high school, consider focusing on computer science, mathematics, and electronics. The median annual wage for computer network support specialists is $71,530. Employment is projected to grow 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

6. Occupational Therapy Assistants 

Median Annual Pay: $67,010

Demand Projection: 23%

Occupational therapy assistants work under the supervision of occupational therapists to help clients develop, improve, and maintain everyday skills. To become an occupational therapy assistant, you’d typically need an associate’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited institution. 

Your focus areas in high school should include biology, health, and psychology. The median annual pay for occupational therapy assistants is $67,010 per year. The demand is projected at 23 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

7. Paralegals and Legal Assistants 

Median Annual Pay: $60,970

Demand Projection: 4%

Paralegals assist lawyers by performing tasks like maintaining files, conducting research, and drafting legal documents. To become a paralegal, you’d need to get an associate degree in paralegal studies. 

High school students should focus on courses in English, history, and government studies. The median annual wage for paralegals and legal assistants is $60,970. The demand for paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow by 4 percent from 2022 to 2032, matching the average growth rate for all occupations.

8. Veterinary Technicians 

Median Annual Pay: $43,740

Demand Projection: 21%

Veterinary technicians perform medical tests and assist with animal care under the supervision of veterinarians. To become a veterinary technician, you usually need to hold a 2-year associate’s degree in a veterinary technology program.

High school students should study biology, chemistry, and animal science. The median annual wage for veterinary technologists and technicians is $43,740. Demand is projected to grow by 21 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is significantly higher than the average growth rate for all occupations.

9. Preschool Teachers 

Median Annual Pay: $37,130

Demand Projection: 3%

Preschool teachers educate and care for children younger than age 5 who have not yet entered kindergarten. Responsibilities include teaching language, motor, and social skills to young children. Preschool teachers need at least an associate degree to start. Some states require preschool teachers to obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA).

If you’re keen on joining this profession, consider focusing on English, psychology, and child development in high school. The median annual wage for preschool teachers is $37,130. The demand for preschool teachers is projected to grow by 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is about the same as the average growth rate for all occupations.

10. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses 

Median Annual Pay: $59,730

Demand Projection: 5%

LPNs and LVNs provide basic medical care to patients who are ill, injured, or disabled. Their tasks include checking vitals, assisting patients with bathing/dressing, and reporting their condition to registered nurses. To become an LP/LVN you’d need to complete a state-approved educational program and get licensure.

In high school, aspiring students should focus on biology, chemistry, and health. The median annual salary for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is $59,730. The demand for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is projected to grow by 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations.

Related: Getting an Associate Degree in Finance.

Related: How to Earn an Associate’s Degree in Project Management

Now the question arises, which associate degree should you go for? How do you know which associate degree is best for you? While choosing an associate degree, consider the following factors:

1. Career Goals  

Choose a degree that aligns with your long-term goals and interests. Ensure that there’s good demand and growth potential in the field.

2. Interests and Strengths  

Opt for a program that captivates your interest and plays to your strengths. Being passionate and skilled in your field can lead to greater academic success and job satisfaction.

3. Accreditation  

Verify that the program is accredited to ensure high-quality education and smooth credit transfers. Accreditation ensures your degree holds value with employers and further educational opportunities.

4. Flexibility  

Choose a program that fits your lifestyle, whether it’s online, part-time, or full-time. 

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Pursuing an Online Associate Degree

Keep these factors in mind so you can choose an associate degree that suits you best.

Obtaining an associate’s degree is a great way to kickstart your career. With an associate degree, you will have several job options to choose from, many of which are in demand and pay well. You can enter the job market quickly and gain valuable experience.

Eventually, if you want to pursue a degree from a 4-year institute, you can even transfer your credits. All these factors combine to make associate degree programs an attractive option.

If you’re planning to pursue an associate degree, take some time to thoroughly research your shortlisted degree programs, their accreditation, curriculum, and if they match your long-term goals. Still looking for the right college? Explore a list of colleges that fit your needs with our personalized college match tool.