From the high housing costs to grocery bills that seem to keep creeping up, we’re all looking for ways to get ahead financially . And while many high-paying jobs require a bachelor’s degree or higher, that’s true across the board.
There are many career paths out there that are accessible with a two-year associate’s degree, whether you're trying to earn more money or find a more rewarding career.
Here are 10 great options for those looking for a career change with a two-year degree.
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If you’re looking for the best jobs that don’t require decades of schooling, healthcare is always a great option.
For example, an MRI technologist is a professional who operates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologies that help provide complete patient care. Some MRI technologists have a specialty, such as X-ray or CT imaging.
To become an MRI technologist, you should pursue an associate’s degree in healthcare sciences. MRI techs make a median income of $76,020 per year.
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2. Dental hygienist
Most of us have been on the receiving end of what a dental hygienist does. Their job involves cleaning patients’ teeth and advising patients on the best oral care. In some cases, they may assist with things like fluoride treatments or topical anesthesia.
A dental hygienist plays an integral role in any patient’s dental exam and knows how to use a variety of specialized tools to assist in teeth cleaning and examination.
Dental hygienists have an annual median income of $87,530. Most work in private dental offices, though they can also be employed in outpatient care or education.
You can become a dental hygienist with an associate’s degree. This degree comes with hands-on practical clinical experience to best prepare you for the workforce.
3. Court reporter
Court reporters make an average income of $63,940. Court reports work in the courts to prepare verbatim transcripts for hearings, proceedings, and more.
You can become a court reporter with an associate’s degree. It’s important to have great communication and interpersonal skills for this job, as you’ll be reporting on speech (and sometimes body language) in real time.
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4. Elevator and escalator installer and repairer
Most of us use elevators and escalators on a daily basis. And though you might not think about it, there is a lot that goes into implementing and operating these systems. In fact, installing and maintaining elevators and escalators is a career on its own.
Most elevator and escalator installers do not require more than a high school diploma, although an associate’s degree in an engineering-related field helps. They will need to be licensed (depending on the state) and usually need to undergo an apprenticeship.
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers make an average of $102,420 per year.
5. Funeral service worker
Funeral service workers have a very important job to play. By managing the details of a funeral service, they help family members and friends honor their loved ones who have passed on.
Funeral service workers help families make funeral service arrangements and complete the necessary government paperwork. They also help prepare the deceased’s body for burial or cremation. Morticians and funeral home managers are funeral service workers.
An associate’s degree in mortuary science education is the best way to become a funeral service worker. They make a median wage of $60,580 per year.
6. Drafter
A drafter creates technical drawings for architects and engineers. Most drafters will have a specialty (ex. civil or mechanical engineering).
The work that drafters do is an essential part of designing any kind of structure and, in some cases, complex products and technologies.
Most drafters receive an associate’s degree in the applied sciences. The median annual pay for a drafter is $62,530. If you’re looking for a high-paying, low-stress job, this might just be one to consider.
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An occupational therapy assistant — sometimes called an occupational aide — supports patients in daily life. Many of these patients have limited mobility or developmental disabilities.
The individual work will vary by patient. Part of this job is working with an occupational therapist to develop a unique care plan for every patient and track their progress.
Occupational therapy assistants make a good income, with a median wage of $65,450 per year. It’s possible (and common) to become an occupational therapy assistant with an associate’s degree.
8. Air traffic controller
Have you ever wondered what goes on in those airport towers? That’s the workplace of an air traffic controller. Air traffic controllers have the important job of coordinating aircraft movement to ensure that they can take off, fly, and land safely without colliding with other aircraft.
Air traffic controllers are also responsible for issuing take-off and landing instructions to pilots. The work can be high-pressure and high-stress, but it’s very lucrative. The median annual income is $137,380.
Many air traffic controllers have a bachelor’s degree, but it’s possible to enter this career path with an associate’s degree in transportation or engineering as well.
9. Radiation therapist
As another healthcare entry on this list, radiation therapists help patients with cancer treatment. They work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, and doctor’s offices.
They are responsible for administering radiation therapy to patients and may also be tasked with informing them about treatment options and asking relevant questions.
To become a radiation therapist, you’ll need an associate’s degree in radiation therapy. The average median income is $98,300.
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Do you live near a nuclear energy plant? If so, you’re in luck — working as a nuclear technician is one of the best ways to make money . To do so, you’ll want to pursue an associate’s degree in nuclear technologies (most often, this is in nuclear science).
Nuclear technicians work at nuclear power plants, assisting physicists and other scientists in research. They also work in the control center to monitor the power plant and ensure that all operations are running smoothly. They are tasked with measuring radiation levels and collecting various air, soil, and water samples.
Nuclear technicians may specialize as operating technicians or radiation protection technicians. They make a median salary of $101,740 per year.
Bottom line
There are some high-paying jobs out there that only require a two-year degree. All of these salary numbers will vary depending on where you live — some are lower and some higher.
Choosing a well-compensating career is important, especially if you want to retire early . But make sure to take your interests into account as well.
If you’re unsure of which path is right for you, taking a career aptitude test is a good way to start — or even spend some time reflecting on your hobbies.
Money tips that can work for everyone
No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.
Focus on paying off your debt. Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.
Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.
Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).
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