Associate degrees are generally associated with entry-level positions.
But you might be surprised to learn that there are some associate degrees which can pay six figures for not-so-entry-level jobs, without you needing to undertake further studies to obtain a four-year college degree.
And even at the entry-level, with these degrees you can work your way up quickly if you are determined, have the right attitude, and keep building on your skills.
Sounds too good to be true?
Associate degrees in fields such as radiation therapy, air traffic control, dental hygiene, and even nuclear technology and manufacturing, can lead to lucrative careers with salaries in excess of $100,000, per analysis of jobs on Salary.com.
The best aspect of associate degree programs is that they are hands-on and equip graduates with specialized skills that are in high demand within the job market. This allows you to get your career off to a good headstart, and start earning a high income with minimal student debt costs, right after graduation.
The key is to choose the right associate degree and industry to work in, find locations that have substantial earning potential due to high demand, and add to your skills by not stopping merely at an associate degree. While you don’t need to go full-on with a bachelor’s degree, you can still continue learning and prove your value to employers by gaining extra licences and certifications.
3 Associate Degrees That Pay $100,000+ In 2024
Here are three examples of associate degrees (and related jobs) that allow you to earn enough to live a comfortable lifestyle and while experiencing a rewarding career:
1. Associate Degree In Aviation or Associate of Applied Science In Aircraft Structural Technology
An associate degree in aviation is offered by multiple colleges and aviation schools such as the Institute of Aviation at Parkland College, Hesston College’s Associate Degree In Aviation—Professional Pilot, and even an online Associate of Applied Science in Aircraft Structural Technology from Middle Georgia State College.
This forms the foundation for a successful career as a commercial pilot, flying for regional airlines as well as big-name carriers such as Delta or Virgin—although it is important to note that it is easier getting into a regional airline with just an associate degree than it is to work for a national or mainline airline, who usually prefer candidates with bachelor’s degrees.
Airline pilot average salary range: Between $176,101 and $224,601
2. Associate Degree In Web Development
Although there are still a number of employers who’d rather you complete a four-year degree, it is still possible to get your foot in the door within the computer technology industry with an associate degree.
An associate degree in web development can be combined with building your portfolio of practice projects, freelancing, attending bootcamps, and completing extra certifications to learn new technologies as they evolve, to help you stand out to employers.
Web developer average salary range: Between $81,641 and $107,664
3. Associate Degree In Nuclear Medicine Technology
Nuclear medicine technologists work with large electronic equipment and operate them in addition to using radiopharmaceuticals to perform tests which are used to diagnosis, as well as for medical and scientific research.
Radiopharmaceuticals can be used, not only for imaging, but for critical treatment, making this a deeply rewarding role within the medical industry to pursue. You will need at the minimum, an associate degree in nuclear medicine technology, to work in this role.
Nuclear medicine technologist average salary range: Between $85,400 and $104,455
These two-year degrees, in addition to obtaining the relevant licences and passing the necessary exams, enable you to have a high-earning, satisfying career without needing to worry about spending years studying something you are not sure of, or paying for college tuition. And as you work hard at your profession, your earning potential will expand as you work your way up the ladder.
