Top 10 Highest-Paying Associate Degree Jobs in the U.S.: Check Median Salaries and Career Details

As the cost of higher education continues to soar and student debt crosses alarming thresholds, more Americans are rethinking the traditional four-year college path. With the average student loan debt exceeding $29,000, associate degree programs are gaining popularity as a more affordable and quicker route to a lucrative career.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a two-year associate degree from a community college can open the door to high-paying professions, some even offering six-figure salaries. 

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List of Top 10 Associate Degree Jobs and Median Annual Earnings

So, if you’re looking to balance education costs with future earnings, here are the top 10 highest-paying associate degree jobs in the U.S. in 2024, based on median annual salaries.

1. Air Traffic Controllers 

Job Growth (2023–2033): 2.9%

Air traffic controllers are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in U.S. airspace. Despite the high responsibility, the path to this career usually begins with an associate degree, along with passing FAA training programs. It also has a special Requirement that one must be a U.S. citizen and pass the FAA exams and health checks.

2. Nuclear Technicians 

Job Growth (2023-2024): 6.2%

Working alongside nuclear engineers and physicists, nuclear technicians operate equipment and monitor radiation levels at power plants and research facilities.

3. Radiation Therapists

Job Growth (2023-2024): 3.1%

Radiation therapists treat cancer and other serious diseases using targeted radiation. They typically work in hospitals or cancer treatment centers and require certification in most states.

4. Nuclear Medicine Technologists

Job Growth (2023-2024): -1.3%

These professionals prepare and administer radioactive drugs for imaging or therapeutic purposes. Although some states require licensure, many begin this career with just an associate degree.

5. Dental Hygienists 

Job Growth (2023-2024): 9.2%

Working closely with dentists, dental hygienists clean teeth, check for oral diseases, and provide preventive care. Most programs last three years, and licensure is mandatory.

6. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers 

Job Growth (2023-2024): 15.1%

Sonographers use ultrasound equipment to create images of the body's internal organs. They typically work in hospitals, labs, or physicians' offices.

7. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists

Job Growth (2023-2024): 8.4%

MRI technologists operate machines to produce detailed images of patients’ internal structures. Most start their career as radiologic technologists before specializing.

8. Respiratory Therapists

Job Growth (2023-2024): 13.1%

These therapists assist patients who struggle with breathing due to chronic conditions like asthma or COPD. An associate degree and state licensure are typically required.

9. Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists

Job Growth (2023-2024): 7.9%

Aerospace technologists help design and maintain aircraft and spacecraft. The job may require security clearance for defense projects.

10. Radiologic Technologists 

Job Growth (2023-2024): 5.8%

These professionals use X-ray and other imaging equipment to help diagnose patients. While an associate degree is sufficient, certification requirements vary by state.

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Conclusion

An associate degree can be your gateway to a rewarding and high-paying career, without the time and debt burden of a traditional four-year program.