8 Highest-Paying Associate Degrees

One of the best careers for associate degree-seekers, air traffic controllers monitor aircraft and direct their movement. Before takeoff, they direct ground air traffic and issue takeoff instructions. As flights take off, air traffic controllers transfer control to other traffic control centers. During a flight, they communicate with pilots about conditions. They also issue landing instructions.

Air traffic controllers typically need an associate or bachelor's degree from an FAA-approved air traffic controller program. In these programs, students learn about topics like aviation, weather, federal regulations, and safety rules.

Source: BLS

Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other health conditions. They prepare patients for treatments, follow safety procedures to limit radiation exposure, and operate equipment to treat patients. Radiation therapists also maintain treatment records.

These professionals typically hold an associate degree in radiation therapy. During a radiation therapy program, students learn about anatomy, radiation science, and physics. They also gain clinical experience. Most states require radiation therapists to hold licensure or certification.

Source: BLS

One of the best careers for associate degree students, nuclear technicians work in nuclear energy facilities or nuclear research labs. They operate equipment to generate nuclear power and monitor radiation levels using special tools. Nuclear technicians also collect samples to test for radioactive contaminants and instruct people on radiation safety rules.

This career path requires an associate degree in nuclear science. The degree trains students in areas like nuclear energy, radiation, and nuclear power equipment. Nuclear technicians also complete on-the-job training.

Source: BLS

Funeral service managers oversee the process of preparing a deceased person for a funeral ceremony. They meet with family members to discuss funeral service options, file legal documents, and manage staff in a funeral home. As managers, they also plan schedules and budgets for funeral homes.

Most funeral service managers hold an associate degree, complete supervised training, and take a state licensing exam. The American Board of Funeral Service Education grants accreditation to funeral service management programs.

Source: BLS

Nuclear medicine technologists administer radioactive drugs to patients. They prepare patients for procedures, administer radioactive drugs, and monitor patients for their reaction. They must also follow safety procedures to protect people from radiation exposure and to dispose of medicines.

Most nuclear medicine technologists hold an associate degree in nuclear medicine technology, one of the best associate majors. These programs cover topics like anatomy, physics, and radioactive medicines. They also include clinical requirements.

Source: BLS

Dental hygienists clean patients' teeth and offer preventative care. They identify warning signs for oral diseases, educate patients on oral hygiene, and report information on oral health to dentists. These professionals also apply dental treatments and take dental x-rays.

As allied health professionals, dental hygienists need an associate degree in dental hygiene. During a program, learners study oral anatomy and periodontics while gaining clinical experience. Programs typically take three years to complete.

Source: BLS

Diagnostic medical sonographers, also known as diagnostic imaging workers, use medical equipment to create images. They discuss procedures with patients, prepare imaging equipment, and operate the equipment. They also analyze images and summarize their findings.

Most diagnostic medical sonographers complete an associate degree in sonography or medical imaging technology. During their program, students learn about human anatomy, imaging technology, and medical terminology. Programs typically incorporate clinical requirements.

Source: BLS

Web developers, also one of the best careers for associate degree-seekers, write code for websites. They often create the visual look and interactive qualities on websites while managing the code to keep websites running smoothly. Web developers use programming languages like JavaScript and HTML to build websites. They also test applications and other features on websites.

Typically, these professionals hold an associate degree in web development, though some employers prefer a bachelor's degree.

Source: BLS