30 Vocational Careers That Pay Well 2025

Author: Bambi Majumdar
Reviewed by: Melissa Anderson, MS.Ed.
Reading Level: Grade 10
Updates: 3

Key Takeaways:

• Many vocational careers are in high demand. Fields like healthcare (e.g., nursing, dental hygiene), skilled trades (e.g., plumbing, electrical work, welding), and technology (e.g., IT support, cybersecurity) consistently have strong job markets.
• Vocational training programs are typically shorter than traditional four-year college degrees. This allows individuals to enter the workforce sooner and start earning an income more quickly.
• Vocational programs often cost less than a traditional college education, reducing student debt and financial burden.
• Many vocational careers offer competitive salaries. For example, skilled tradespeople, healthcare technicians, and IT professionals can earn substantial incomes.
• Many vocational fields offer strong job security due to consistent demand for skilled workers.

An associate degree prepares students for jobs in multiple industries. Many students wish to enter the workforce right after completing high school but, at the same time, continue with their education. An associate degree from a community college will give them a quick-start career as they earn a degree in two years. Though this is a basic degree, students get foundational knowledge for the field they are interested in and start their careers. They provide focused, high-quality education and help students find a job in their field. You can get into a lot of the trades with an associate’s degree.

In 2020, around 11 million students were enrolled in vocational programs. Today, the demand for associate degree programs, including online ones, is rising. Part of this growth is that many jobs don’t require a bachelor’s degree program. For students considering an associate degree, it is important to consider the types of jobs they can get compared to a bachelor’s degree. It means getting a degree quickly and for much less, but the job potential with an associate degree can be pretty good. Due to these job market changes, more and more colleges are now offering two-year degree programs.

Some associate credentials offer higher returns than others, but most put students on a path to earning above the median household income level. Career opportunities that pay the most for an associate degree lie in the healthcare and information technology sectors. Students can earn an associate degree from accredited local universities and local community colleges. The latter’s attendance cost is much less, which means they do not incur too much college debt. Since they also start earning sooner than later, they can pay off whatever loans they may have and realize the ROI of their degree quickly.

In this article, we have listed the best vocational school careers well by salary and position. Note that the median annual salaries and projected job growth are sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Best Vocational Jobs in 2025

#30. Retail Sales Associate

Retail sales associates work in boutiques, large department stores, and big grocery chains. They help customers find, select and purchase products in a store. Key duties for these associate degree jobs include: 

#29. Veterinary Technicians

Veterinary technicians are responsible for carefully and humanely handling animals in laboratories and veterinary offices. They work under the supervision of licensed veterinarians to conduct various medical tests and help diagnose injuries and illnesses of various animals. Professionals with these associate degree jobs handle different kinds of tasks at veterinary offices, including: 

• Taking X-rays
• Assisting veterinarians during exams
• Preparing pets for surgical procedures
• Administering vaccines and medications
• Bathing and doing other grooming tasks

According to the BLS, the job outlook for vet tech jobs is excellent, with a projected 19% growth (2023-2033). That’s why this is one of the best careers that take 2 yrs of college.

Median pay per year: $43,740

#28. Human Resources Assistant

Human resources assistants work under the supervision of HR managers and help them with everyday administrative and human resources tasks in HR departments of organizations. They help in payroll processing, recruitment, and compiling and maintaining records. Key responsibilities for these associates degree jobs in business include: 

• Recruiting new employees and maintaining employee records
• Doing exit interviews
• Supporting employees with administrative tasks
• Maintaining HR calendars, coordinating training seminars and sessions
• Interacting with benefit vendors

Regarding job outlook, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs in this sector will grow by 8% through 2033.

Median pay per year: $48,800

#27. Customer Service Representatives

Customer service representatives work in various industries, from retail to manufacturing to IT companies. Any company that sells products or services needs a customer service team to support clients. This is why associate degree jobs in this sector are always growing. Key responsibilities include: 

• Handling and resolving customer complaints
• Keeping records of customer interactions
• Engaging with customers and responding to their queries about an organization’s products and services
• Processing orders, updating customer accounts, and filing documents

Customer service representatives must be patient and remain calm while ensuring resolution to various problems. They also need to follow communication procedures and policies closely. 

According to the BLS, demand for customer service representatives will decrease by 5% (2023-2033). But about  365,300 openings are available every year, on average. 

Median pay per year: $39,680

#26. Fire Services Assistants 

Fire service assistants are very important members of firefighting teams and fire stations. They also work with police departments and insurance companies to help arson investigators. Key duties for these types of associate degree jobs include:

• Detecting fire hazards and investigating their causes
• Carrying out the meticulous inquiry after fire accidents have occurred to uncover criminal activities, if any
• Determining the origin of the incident, capturing evidence through pictures, and testing samples for DNA
• Ensure the use of updated fire codes in buildings

Students with an associate’s degree will find it easy to get their foot in the door though they may need advanced degrees and hands-on experience to grow and become fire investigators. In terms of job outlook, jobs in this field will grow by 4% through 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Median pay per year: $57,120

#25. Marketing Assistants 

This is one of the jobs available with associates degree in business administration programs. Marketing assistants work in larger marketing teams to help plan, execute, manage, and track marketing programs. They work under the supervision of marketing managers or directors to develop and execute new marketing strategies. Key responsibilities include: 

• Researching, compiling, and reporting on buying trends and statistics
• Copywriting for marketing materials and other support
• Monitoring active marketing campaigns
• Making campaign improvements when needed and completing projects

Marketing assistants need to have excellent communication and organizational skills, a high level of organization, and attention to detail.

Projected job growth for marketing professionals including marketing assistants is 10% (2023-2033). 

Median Annual Salary: $50,574

#24. Environmental Technicians

With the increasing threat of global environmental change, environmental engineering technology has never been more critical. Environmental technicians are in high demand. They work alongside environmental engineers in core engineering teams to uncover and eliminate climate-related or ecological threats. Their job responsibilities mainly involve taking practical measures to curb the effects of climate change. These could include:

• Investigating sources of pollution and contamination
• Reducing water contamination
• Monitoring soil samples
• Cleaning up hazardous wastes

In terms of job outlook, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that jobs in this environmental engineering technology are projected to grow 7% through 2033. 

Median Annual Salary: $50,660

#23. Mortician

A mortician’s job may sound like an unusual option for an associate’s degree holder, but it is one of the highest-paying jobs with an associate’s degree. Sometimes, they work as assistants to the funeral director or funeral service manager and then become one themselves with more experience. They are mainly responsible for embalming and preparing bodies for burial. They also help in planning funerals and burial services. They need an associate’s degree and their state’s license to work in funeral homes and crematories. 

Projected job growth for morticians is 4% (2023-2033).

Median Annual Salary:  $60,580

 #22. Civil Engineering Technician

Civil engineering technicians assist senior civil engineers in carrying out large civil projects, including planning, designing, and building infrastructure projects. Students with an associate’s degree in math, geometry, and physics will be well suited for the role of civil engineering technicians. Some of their responsibilities for these associate degree jobs include:

• Using computer-aided designs (CAD)
• Interpreting the blueprints
• Examining the site conditions and preparing reports 
• Estimating costs for the construction process

Civil engineering technician is one of the highest-paying jobs with an associate degree, with an expected growth rate of 2% through 2033, according to recent job market projections. 

Median Annual Salary: $60,700

#21. Avionics Technician

Avionics technicians are essential members of the avionics teams as they are responsible for properly functioning an aircraft. They help maintain the electronic system of an aircraft. Jobs in this field are expected to grow by 4% through 2032. Key responsibilities associated with these high-paying associate degree jobs include: 

• Diagnosing the electrical problems
• Inspecting the performance standards
• Repairing and replacing the defective components
• Maintaining the records

Candidates, who often work in the army or navy, need to hold at least an associate’s degree and professional certification from the Federal Aviation Administration to work in the field. These are similar requirements to those for air traffic controllers, but positions for air traffic controllers are growing slowly as of this writing.

The projected job growth for avionics technicians is 5% (2023-2033).

Median Annual Salary: $75,400

#20. Wind Turbine Technician

Wind turbine technicians mostly work for energy companies. With an increasing focus on renewable energy, they are in high demand. Jobs in this sector are expected to grow at a whopping 45% by 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and they are among the highest-paying jobs with an associate’s degree. Key responsibilities include: 

• Maintaining, installing, and repairing wind turbines
• Inspecting the turbine towers, testing the different components, maintaining the routine performance of wind turbines, and replacing or repairing malfunctioning devices

Turbine technicians can get into the workforce with an associate’s degree from a community college, but most employers also prefer them to have 12 months of training on the job as well. 

The projected job growth for wind turbine technicians is 60% (2023-2033). The fast growth is due to the increased demand for clean energy sources including wind turbines.

Median Annual Salary: $61,770

#19. Industrial Engineering Technician

An industrial engineering technician assists senior engineers in large industrial and commercial projects. They work closely with industrial engineers to manage production levels at factories. They help manage work schedules, plan layouts, and cut cost estimates so that there is optimum production at a reasonable cost. It is one of the best jobs to consider with an associate’s degree in science, and employment is set to grow at a steady rate. Employers prefer that students hold a diploma or an associate’s degree in industrial engineering for these high-paying associate degree jobs. 

The projected job growth for industrial engineering technicians is 4% (2023-2033).

Median Annual Salary: $62,610

#18. Paralegal and Legal Assistants

Paralegal and legal assistants are always in demand, and the associate degree jobs in this field will continue to grow at a rate of 4% in the next decade, according to recent job market projections. These legal assistants work closely with the lawyers and attorneys and assist them with their cases. In most cases, an associate’s degree in legal studies with an approved certification by American Bar Association is an accepted degree to work with reputable legal firms or legal teams of large organizations. Along with administrative duties, they also file documents, interview clients, gather evidence, write trial statements, and file appeals.

While the 1% projected job growth (2023-2033) of paralegals and legal assistants seems slow, about 37,300 openings are projected every year, on average.

Median Annual Salary: $60,970

#17. Electro-Mechanical Technicians

One of the best associate degree jobs available, electro-mechanical technicians work with mechanical engineers to manage products that have electric or magnetic components. Students need to hold an associate’s degree with relevant professional certification to get a job in this field. Their key duties include: 

• Using equipment for the installation of electronic hardware
• Reading blueprints
• Maintaining records of routine activities

Electro-mechanical technicians are part of larger teams, including mechanical engineers as well as mechanical engineering technicians and electrical engineering technicians, that are responsible for operating robots, industrial machines, submarines, electrical systems, and temperature systems.

There’s a 1% decline in projected job growth for electro-mechanical technicians. But things can change and their demand can increase.

Median Annual Salary: $65,080

#16. Assistant Respiratory Therapists

This is one of the many available medical careers with associate degree programs. Assistant respiratory therapists work with doctors to help patients suffering from breathing disorders. They help treat patients with asthma, cancer, emphysema, cystic fibrosis, and other illnesses to maintain oxygen levels in their lungs. Demand for respiratory therapists is quite high and will continue to grow by 13% in the next decade. Key responsibilities for these associate degree jobs include:

• Demonstrating the use of nebulizers and inhalers
• Connecting patients to respirators
• Removing mucus from the lungs
• Maintaining case records and giving CPR

Students need to hold an associate’s degree in the field along with a certification from the National Board of Respiratory Care. 

Median Annual Salary: $77,960

#15. Nurse Associate 

Nurse associates work with registered nurses in clinics and hospitals to assist in patient care. An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) allows students to gain core knowledge and foundational clinical skills in nursing. They focus on providing comprehensive care to patients across their lifespans. They learn to address the complex needs and various health conditions of each patient. These experiences prepare students to jumpstart their careers as registered nurses and earn a more advanced degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). In terms of job outlook, associate degree jobs in this field will grow by 4% through 2033.

Median Annual Salary: $38,130

#14. Aircraft Service Technician

One of the highest-paying associate degree jobs right now, an aircraft service technician, much like an avionics technician, is responsible for the maintenance of aircraft structures and systems. However, they often work for commercial airlines more than the defense, but there are no hard barriers. The job opportunities in the field are promising, with a projected growth of 5% by 2033. Their key responsibilities include identifying errors, replacing defective parts, and filing records. They repair the planes before takeoff and inspect parts to ensure passenger safety. Similar to air traffic controllers, candidates must have an associate’s degree approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to land a job as an aircraft service technician.  

Median Annual Salary: $75,400

#13. Radiologic Technologists

Not to be confused with radiation therapists, radiologic technologists help senior radiologists perform X-RAY scans and other diagnostic examinations on patients. They help physicians by providing x-ray and scan reports so that they can better treat their patients. Other responsibilities for these associate degree jobs in the healthcare industry include: 

• Prepare patients for the procedure
• Maintain the imaging equipment
• Evaluate the images with the physicians and radiologists 
• Maintain the records

In terms of job outlook, positions in this subfield of the healthcare industry will grow by 6% in the 2023-2033 period. That’s not to mention that this is one of the top earning associate’s degrees available. Students need to hold an associate’s degree in radiologic technology to become radiologic and MRI technologists.

Median Annual Salary: $76,020

#12. Physical Therapy Assistant

Not to be confused with occupational therapy assistants, physical therapy assistants mainly work in rehabilitation centers but can also work in hospitals or in extended teams of hospitals where they have to visit patients’ homes. An aging population and patients with chronic illness have led to the growing demand for this role. It is one of the fastest-growing associate degree jobs in the healthcare industry, with a projected growth of 19% through 2033. 

• They assist therapists in helping patients regain their movement after injuries and illness. 
• They use traction machines and weights to help patients exercise and observe the muscles’ movement.

Candidates should have an associate’s degree and a license to work as therapist assistants. 

Median Annual Salary: $58,740

#11. Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers

Telecommunication equipment installers or repairers work with larger teams to help set up and install the equipment necessary to carry the signals for communication. The primary responsibility associated with these associate degree jobs is to maintain the flow of communication and prevent disruptions in internet routers and telephone lines. Candidates need training before working independently. Their main duties include: 

• Inspecting the equipment
• Testing the new devices
• Repairing the faults
• Maintaining records

While they can easily get into entry-level jobs in the field, those who wish to grow in the field will have to pursue a bachelor’s in electronics or a related degree. 

The projected job growth for the occupation is 3% decline (2023-2033). Still, there are about 24,600 openings projected every year, on average, for the 10-year period.

Median Annual Salary: $62,350

#10. Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational therapy assistants work with occupational therapists and have promising career prospects. They mainly work in rehabilitation centers and clinics but can also work in hospitals or in extended teams of occupational therapists or sports teams. They help in:

• Performing therapeutic treatments for patients suffering from various sports or exercises related injuries. 
• Administrative functions like transporting patients, setting up appointments, carrying out treatment plans, and maintaining records. 

These high-paying associate degree jobs for occupational therapy assistants are projected to grow at the rate of 21% through 2033.

Median Annual Salary: $65,450

#9. Auto Damage Appraiser

Auto damage appraisers typically work in insurance companies, particularly their vehicle insurance departments. The rise in automobile ownership and usage will continue to fuel the growth of associate degree jobs in this sector. The main responsibilities of auto damage appraisers include the following: 

• Examining the photos and evaluating the damaged vehicle
• Carrying out in-depth investigations to assess the damages 
• Determining the cost of vehicle repair after the accidents
• Filing claim settlements

Jobs are plenty in this field, and they offer a very competitive salary. But there’s a projected 5% decrease in demand for these workers. Still, about 21,500 openings are projected on average every year.

Median Annual Salary: $75,020

#8. Computer Network Support Specialist

Computer network support specialists work as a part of larger tech teams or as individual service providers. They offer technical support to companies and homes and work to resolve computer-related problems. Some of their key responsibilities include: 

• Restoring and backing up files
• Checking the networks constantly 
• Preventing and maintaining security breaches
• Maintaining network areas such as LAN and WAN

Employers prefer specialists with an associate’s degree in IT, computer science, computer systems, or customer services for entry-level roles. The job outlook for these professions is good. Jobs in this field are projected to grow 6% through 2033.

Median Annual Salary: $60,810

#7. Web Developers

Web developers are always in demand, thanks to the digital age we live in. Web developers are IT professionals who are responsible for creating websites for businesses, non-profits, and other organizations, as well as for individuals. They use programming languages and computer coding like HTML and XML to create these websites. An associate’s in web development, web design, and computer-related courses will get them into promising roles with many growth opportunities. Associate degree jobs in this field are expected to grow at a rate of 8% through 2033.

Median Annual Salary: $92,750

#6. Geological and Petroleum Technician

Among the highest-paying associate degree jobs, geological and petroleum technicians assist senior engineers in offices, laboratories as well as project sites. Along with engineers and scientists, they carefully extract the natural resources from Earth’s crust. Other responsibilities include: 

• Looking for the best drilling spots
• Monitoring the rock formations and testing soil samples
• Maintaining the record of the availability of natural resources

Candidates must have a two-year associate’s degree in geoscience, physics, or mining for entry-level roles. However, to grow as senior geological and petroleum technicians, they will need advanced degrees. Jobs in this field are projected to grow by 3% by 2033.

Median Annual Salary: $53,440

#5. Assistant Nuclear Technician

Assistant nuclear technicians assist senior engineers and physicists in various nuclear research and other projects. Their jobs revolve around the production of appropriate levels of nuclear power. They form a part of very important projects. Key job responsibilities for these associate degree jobs include:

• Monitoring nuclear reactors in nuclear power plants
• Conforming to safety guidelines and procedures
• Measuring appropriate radiation levels

While students holding an associate’s degree can get into entry-level roles, they will need advanced degrees in nuclear science and nuclear-related technology to grow in this field. 

There’s a 6% decline in projected growth for the occupation due to fewer nuclear power plants being built.

Median Annual Salary: $101,740

#4. Food Services Manager

Some of the highest-paying associate degrees are in food service management and closely related fields. Food services managers are an integral part of the operations teams for hotels, restaurants, and related food businesses. They plan and oversee daily operations related to food services and supervise restaurant staff. They are responsible for adhering to the signature meals restaurants are known for, planning nutritious meals, and upholding health regulations. They also train staff and respond to customer complaints. Those who hold an associate’s degree, especially an associate’s degree in culinary arts, or one-year relevant certificates are preferred candidates for this job. An associate’s degree can get your foot in the door, and many companies have ways for you to build on that. One example is McDonald’s management and ownership training center, Hamburger University.

The projected job growth for this occupation is 2% (2023-2033) or about 44,500 openings every year, on average.

Median Annual Salary: $63,060

 #3. Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists work closely with dentists. In their role as a dental hygienist, they are responsible for providing oral care and assisting in the overall dental hygiene treatment of their patients. An associate degree from dental hygiene programs with courses accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) will make students eligible for dental hygienist jobs. Key responsibilities for a dental hygienist include:

• Cleaning teeth
• Taking dental X-RAYs
• Providing dental consultation
• Consulting with dentists
• Managing all patient records

A dental hygienist job is one of the highest-paying jobs with an associate’s degree, and employment in the field is projected to grow at a rate of 9% by the year 2033. There are many affordable dental hygiene programs available to prospective students.

Median Annual Salary: $87,530

 #2. Executive Administrative Assistant

Executive administrative assistants provide high-level administrative support to senior executives in an office setting. They handle multiple administrative tasks, including: 

• Answering calls and scheduling appointments
• Setting up staff or client meetings
• Managing an executive’s calendar and handling email/mail
• Maintaining files or databases and other office duties
• Preparing documents like reports and invoices

Some also supervise lower-level office employees and oversee office functions. The top three skills of an executive assistant are people skills, adaptability, and organization. Two-year credentials in this field are some of the highest-paying associate degrees available.

The projected job growth for the occupation is 1% (2023-2033).

Median Annual Salary: $46,010

#1. Ultrasound Technician

Ultrasound technicians help doctors, and other health care professionals evaluate and classify a patient’s medical conditions. Also referred to as diagnostic medical sonographers, they work with senior ultrasound specialists to produce images used to diagnose medical conditions or track a baby’s growth in the womb. They work with imaging equipment that produces high-frequency waves to record these images or conduct tests. Other duties include: 

• Reviewing images to search for abnormalities or areas of concern
• Answering patients’ inquiries about these imaging procedures
• Recording their findings

Jobs in this field will grow by 11% through 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A two-year program in ultrasound technology ranks among the highest-paying associate degrees one can earn.

Median Annual Salary: $80,850

Other High Paying Associate Degrees to Consider

• Associate’s in Aerospace Engineering
• Associate’s in Industrial Engineering Technology
• Associate’s in Radiation Therapy

Other High Paying Jobs to Consider With an Associate Degree

• air traffic controllers
• industrial engineers
• nuclear medicine technologists
• radiation therapist
• MRI technologists
• nuclear technicians
• medical equipment repairers
• petroleum technicians
• aerospace engineering technicians and technologists

More About Best Associates Degree Careers

What is an associate degree?

Associate degrees are two-year degrees that are available on campus as well as online. They are usually offered by a community college and typically include half the workload of a four-year bachelor’s degree. Students who are working and need a more flexible schedule often opt for an online associate degree. They can either stretch their time from two years to more if they are juggling other responsibilities or choose an accelerated option to earn their degree in less than two years. Affordable community colleges often provide associate degrees, so students do not incur too much debt. Even if universities offer them, the programs are affordable and set students up for success, growth, and excellent earning potential.

Typically, the average cost of attending a two-year associate degree program can range between $4000-$8000. However, this number does not take into account room and board and other costs associated with attending school. You might be able to cut down on all your costs and time invested by earning an accelerated associate’s degree online. The BLS states that associate degree holders earn a median wage of $55,016 per year (i.e., based on $1,058 median weekly wage). This is a higher figure than the median wage of $46,748 per year (i.e., based on $899 median weekly wage) that high school graduates earn. Students looking to enter the workforce and get a quick start to their careers should consider an associate degree and its many benefits. Recovering the cost of education is also easier since the programs are cheaper and getting into entry-level roles is easier with this degree. Most students can gain back the money in less than two years.

Associate degree students study fields like business, political science, technology, communications, healthcare, nursing, biology, and aerospace engineering, among others. These provide foundational knowledge to work in multiple industries as well as pursue bachelor’s degrees. Most colleges and universities have generous credit transfer policies for students with an associate degree and allow them to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in two years. The two-year degree provides training for a wide range of careers with competitive salaries. High-paying associate degree jobs include air traffic controllers, nuclear medicine technologists, environmental engineering technicians, industrial engineering technicians, electronics engineering technicians, marketing or project coordinators, social media specialists, office assistants, and occupational therapy assistants, among others.

As an alternative to the four-year college degree, two-year degrees represent a popular, lucrative path. Many jobs do not require advanced degrees for entry-level roles. There are also jobs for associate degree holders that pay well but offer more scope to grow with advanced degrees. All of them, however, make it easy for many students to get into the workforce early and start earning. 

How does an associate degree help? 

An associate degree can lead to getting a degree faster and with a cheaper price tag. More than that, many choose it as the fastest way to get into a good career. Even with entry-level roles, they can start earning immediately and gaining experience in the career of their choice. They know this will jump-start their careers, but it does not end there. Students can apply to four-year undergraduate programs after earning their associate degrees so that they can grow in their careers. The benefit of a two-year degree is they can complete a bachelor’s degree in just two years and at much less cost.

Associate degrees are great for candidates who want to get in and out of college and get to work. Flexibility is also a popular motivation for earning an associate degree. The programs at community colleges are offered at a fraction of the cost compared to major universities and private colleges. Associate degree programs offer fast and often more affordable routes for education, making them a popular choice, especially among non-traditional students. Many on-campus and online associate degree programs are designed for non-traditional students. This includes people with full-time jobs and families. Their busy schedules prevent them from attending a regular or full-time college. Instead, they opt for classes taught in the evenings, on the weekends, or asynchronously online.

Affordability is a significant benefit of associate-level degrees. A college degree has immense value, but college debt and expenses have continued to rise in recent years. These expenses can be hard to bear for many students. This makes getting an associate degree worth it since completing it takes less time and money than a bachelor’s degree. Students can immediately step from associate degree programs to the workforce and make a sizable income.  

What are the different kinds of associate credentials?

• Associate in Science (AS) – The Associate in Science degree is related to STEM subjects like math, science, and technology and covers a broad range of topics. They are a great fit for students looking for foundational knowledge so that they can pursue further science, engineering, or technology education. 
• Associate in Arts (A.A.) – Students opting for Associate in Arts degrees can take wide-ranging courses. These can include literature, history, humanities, art, sociology, music, creative writing, business management, and communication. The broad curricula of each of these subjects prepare students for a wide range of bachelor’s degrees beyond the field they study. The great advantage of an Associate in Arts degree is that it offers unlimited potential for students with access to several types of Associate in Arts degree jobs.
• Associate in Applied Science (AAS) – An Associate in Applied Science degree is designed for students who wish to gain hands-on knowledge in a field and jump immediately into a specific career path. Typically, these focus on highly specific careers like skilled trades and technology-related fields. That is why they mostly fall under vocational degrees for specific career fields like HVAC systems or auto appraisals. Applied science programs like Web Development & Design, Nursing, Accounting, Teaching Assistantship, Paralegal and Legal Assistantship, and Respiratory Care Providers, are also popular. 

What will you learn in an associate degree?

Associate degree programs cover a wide range of subjects and topics. These include:

• Business Administration
• Engineering Studies
• Computer Science and Information Technology
• Economic Studies
• Performing Arts
• Accounting
• Early Childhood Education
• Management Studies
• Project management 
• Graphic Design
• Marketing 
• Web Design and Web Development 

What is the career outlook for associate degree jobs?  

Many job opportunities in the market only require an associate degree. Associate degree jobs are in great demand. Someone with an associate degree will have a much better chance of securing a job than just a GED. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the career prospects for students with an associate’s degree are good. While they are entry-level roles, they come with a great deal of growth potential. Hiring has increased in the United States, which is great news for the workforce. Companies are looking for talent to make up for the shortage in staffing and resources. Students with an associate degree should also look at the employment growth in their areas to see what jobs they can get.

The median salary for associate degree holders is $55,016 per year. Some degrees pay more. For example, an associate of applied science in business administration salary is $58k on average. According to the BLS, associate degree graduates may earn $1,058 per week on average, while high school graduates with just a high school diploma may earn $899 per week. The distinct difference in the value of the associate degree and earning potential should make it a worthwhile consideration. The low cost of an associate’s degree program usually means that students can pay off their loans in less than 16 months. Students will have a less severe financial loan burden to carry. It is beneficial for working professionals. Down the line, students can expand their education and earn a bachelor’s degree with less debt.

What are the best associate degree jobs and careers? 

There is a wide range of career options to consider when it comes to associate degrees that pay well. Students should look at the list and then try to determine which one best suits their skills, interests, and career goals. This will help them narrow down their degree as well as their career path. The pay and availability for these associate degree jobs vary by location and previous experience, so that should be kept in mind as well. Another thing to note before narrowing down on the choices is that some careers may require certification or licensure beyond the associate’s degree. So, reviewing individual state and industry requirements is a must.

For example, office assistants, paralegals, marketing assistants, and web developers may only need an associate degree and a vocational certificate if they want. But engineering technicians (e.g., industrial engineering technicians, electronics engineering technicians, mechanical engineering technicians, nuclear medicine technologists), nurses, or other healthcare specialists and medical professionals like radiation therapists, diagnostic medical sonographers, and medical equipment repairers, for example, will need an associate degree. They will need to earn professional certification or licensure to practice. Students need to do thorough research and carefully review each career detail before choosing a particular associate’s degree path. Pay, as well as job requirements, vary a lot between different professions.

But no matter which path they choose, they will gain solid foundational skills to get started in a good career with an associate degree. While many associate degree jobs pay well and have immense growth potential, one will truly succeed in a field that best aligns with one’s interests, career, and educational aspirations. The best associate degree careers that pay well include:

• Retail Sales associate
• Veterinary Technicians
• Human Resources Assistant
• Customer Service Representatives
• Fire Services Assistants
• Marketing Assistants
• Environmental Technicians
• Mortician
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Avionics Technician
• Wind Turbine Technician
• Industrial Engineering Technician
• Paralegal and Legal Assistants
• Electro-Mechanical Technicians
• Mechanical Engineering Technician
• Nuclear Medicine Technologists
• Assistant Respiratory Therapists
• Nurse associate
• Aircraft Service Technician
• Radiologic Technologists
• Radiation Therapists
• Physical Therapist Assistant
• Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers
• Occupational Therapy Assistant
• Auto Damage Appraiser
• Computer Network Support Specialist
• Web Developers
• Geological and Petroleum Technician
• Assistant Nuclear Technician
• Food Service Manager
• Dental Hygienists
• Executive Administrative Assistant
• Ultrasound Technician

Some of the best associate degree programs lie in the healthcare field and offer immense opportunities for students. Jobs for medical professionals like radiology technicians, occupational and physical therapy assistants, dental hygienists, respiratory therapists, radiation therapists, diagnostic medical sonographers, medical assistants, and surgical technologists require only an associate degree. Students interested in becoming registered nurses can earn an associate degree to become an R.N., start practicing, and then move on to a bachelor’s degree and advanced studies.

Associate degrees that pay well also lie in the field of information technology. Computer repairs and maintaining computer hardware and networks are careers that can begin with an associate degree. There are many opportunities in the field of computer science available for students who wish to be software developers, computer programmers, and troubleshooters. However, they may have to get an advanced degree in computer systems or a certificate in programming languages to grow in these fields. 

How much do students with an associate degree job earn?

Depending on the profession they choose, associate degree holders can earn anything between $36,000 and $101,000 per year.

Here’s a quick reference of the 30 best vocational jobs in 2025.

#	Occupations	Median Pay Per Year	Job Outlook (2023-2033)
30	Retail Sales Associate	$36,690	Little to no change
29	Veterinary Technicians	$43,740	19% increase
28	Human Resources Assistant	$48,800	8% increase
27	Customer Service Representatives	$39,680	5% decrease
26	Fire Services Assistants	$57,120	4% increase
25	Marketing Assistants	$50,574	10% increase
24	Environmental Technicians	$50,660	7% increase
23	Morticians	$60,580	4% increase
22	Civil Engineering Technicians	$60,700	2% increase
21	Avionics Technicians	$75,400	5% increase
20	Wind Turbine Technicians	$61,770	60% increase
19	Industrial Engineering Technicians	$62,610	4% increase
18	Paralegal and Legal Assistants	$60,970	1% increase
17	Electro-Mechanical Technicians	$65,080	1% decrease
16	Respiratory Therapists	$77,960	13% increase
15	Nurse Associates	$38,130	4% increase
14	Aircraft Service Technicians	$75,400	5% increase
13	Radiologic Technologists	$76,020	6% increase
12	Physical Therapy Assistants	$58,740	19% increase
11	Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers	$62,350	3% decrease
10	Occupational Therapy Assistants	$65,450	21% increase
9	Auto Damage Appraisers	$75,020	5% decrease
8	Computer Network Support Specialists	$60,810	6% increase
7	Web Developers	$92,750	8% increase
6	Geological and Petroleum Technicians	$53,440	3% increase
5	Nuclear Technicians	$101,740	6% decrease
4	Food Services Managers	$63,060	2% increase
3	Dental Hygienists	$87,530	9% increase
2	Executive Administrative Assistants	$46,010	1% increase
1	Ultrasound Technicians	$80,850	11% increase

Sources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 
• U.S. News & World Report
• Yahoo.com
• InsiderMonkey.com 
• Salary.com 
• Glassdoor.com
• Payscale.com

Related Resources

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• What is an Associates Degree in Science?
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