An associate degree is equal to approximately 2 years of school. It is also equal to almost 90% more earnings than one without the degree. In other words, it’s possible for you to take a relatively short course and come out qualified for a high paying job. The choice of jobs where an associate degree is required is broad and caters to a wide spectrum of people. Maybe you’re new job is listed here? Read on to find out more details including how much you could be earning!

1. Computer Support Specialists $59,480

The number one top paying job requiring an associate degree is a Computer Specialist. A Computer Specialist can be one of many computer professionals, from help desk technicians to network admins, providing technical assistance to network security. An associate degree in IT or a related field will often get you in the door.

2. Nuclear Technicians $59,200

Nuclear Technicians much like Nuclear Medicine Technologists, also called Radiologic Technologists or X-Ray Techs, monitor nuclear testing equipment for personal safety. They can be found on nuclear submarines or other naval fleets and work hard to maintain nontoxic operations. It’s an important job, and they get paid well to do it. As you would expect!

3. Dental Hygienist $58,350

Dental Hygienists may only need an associate degree, but getting in to the Associate Dental program is the tough part. Dental schools have very high standards of admission, often requiring the highest GPA’s as well as high community involvement. Additionally, a battery of tests will follow.

4. Radiation Therapist $57,700

Radiation Therapists actually administer radiation to cancer patients to kill the disease. Safety is the most important factor in this industry, both for the patient and the therapist.

5. Fashion Designer $55,840

Fashion designers are paid well as they typically have the creativity many others simply can’t express in clothing. With an associate degree in fashion design or art, designers are well placed to tackle such an industry. Fashion designers typically receive generous pay checks as they typically have the creativity many others simply can’t express in clothing.

6. Aerospace Engineers $52,500

Aerospace engineers actually build, test and prepare space craft for flight. An associate degree in engineering is tough to get through but rewarding for those who can make it.

7. Sonographer $52,490

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasounds and other imaging technology for women in pregnancy. Those in sonography tend to find their field rewarding, both financially and personally.

8. Registered Nurse RN $52,330

Registered Nursing is another associate degree program that can be difficult to get into. Furthermore, the curriculum can be extremely fast-paced and in-depth. Registered nurses can make more money by working more or looking for other advantages and opportunities, i.e. work as a traveling nurses.

Source: BLS

This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 10th, 2007 at 1:26 pm and is filed under Careers and Salaries. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.