Earning an Associate of Arts (AA) degree can open the doors to a myriad of rewarding and...
An Associate of Science (AS) degree is a gateway to a world of lucrative career opportunities across various industries. This versatile credential equips graduates with a solid foundation in scientific and technical disciplines, opening doors to high-paying roles that require specialized knowledge and skills. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the 35 highest-paying jobs that individuals with an Associate of Science degree can pursue. From healthcare and technology to engineering and beyond, we will explore the responsibilities, growth prospects, and average salaries associated with each profession.
1. Registered Nurse
Registered nurses provide essential healthcare services, assisting physicians and caring for patients. With an AS degree in nursing, you can earn an average annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $90,000, depending on your specialization and location.
2. Radiologic Technologist
Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging examinations, including X-rays and CT scans. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $50,000 to $70,000.
3. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases, and provide preventive dental care. Their average annual salary ranges from $70,000 to $80,000.
4. Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists assist individuals and organizations with technical issues, troubleshooting software and hardware problems. The average annual salary for this role is around $50,000 to $60,000.
5. Environmental Science Technician
Environmental science technicians work to prevent environmental hazards and collect samples for analysis. Their average annual salary is approximately $50,000 to $60,000.
6. Cardiovascular Technologist
Cardiovascular technologists assist physicians in diagnosing and treating cardiac and vascular issues. Their average annual salary ranges from $50,000 to $70,000.
7. Aerospace Engineering Technician
Aerospace engineering technicians support the design and production of aircraft and spacecraft. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $60,000 to $70,000.
8. Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical therapist assistants help patients recover from injuries by assisting with exercises and treatments. Their average annual salary is around $50,000 to $60,000.
9. Geological and Petroleum Technician
Geological and petroleum technicians assist in the exploration and extraction of natural resources. Their average annual salary ranges from $50,000 to $70,000.
10. Medical Laboratory Technician
Medical laboratory technicians conduct tests and analyze samples to diagnose illnesses. Their average annual salary is approximately $50,000 to $60,000.
11. Electrical Engineering Technician
Electrical engineering technicians help design and develop electrical systems and equipment. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $50,000 to $70,000.
12. Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists care for patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary disorders. Their average annual salary ranges from $60,000 to $70,000.
13. Civil Engineering Technician
Civil engineering technicians assist in planning, designing, and supervising infrastructure projects. Their average annual salary is around $50,000 to $60,000.
14. Occupational Therapy Assistant
Occupational therapy assistants help patients develop and improve daily living and work skills. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $50,000 to $60,000.
15. Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radioactive drugs for imaging purposes. Their average annual salary ranges from $70,000 to $80,000.
16. Mechanical Engineering Technician
Mechanical engineering technicians aid in designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices. Their average annual salary is approximately $50,000 to $60,000.
17. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound technology to create images of the body's internal structures. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $60,000 to $80,000.
18. Chemical Technician
Chemical technicians assist in laboratory research, testing, and analysis. Their average annual salary is around $50,000 to $60,000.
19. Veterinary Technician
Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians in caring for animals and performing medical procedures. Their average annual salary ranges from $30,000 to $40,000.
20. Biomedical Equipment Technician
Biomedical equipment technicians maintain and repair medical equipment used in healthcare facilities. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $40,000 to $50,000.
21. Dental Assistant
Dental assistants support dentists during procedures and perform administrative tasks. Their average annual salary is approximately $35,000 to $45,000.
22. Surgical Technologist
Surgical technologists assist in surgical procedures by preparing operating rooms and sterilizing equipment. Their average annual salary ranges from $45,000 to $55,000.
23. Architectural Drafter
Architectural drafters create technical drawings and plans for building projects. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $45,000 to $55,000.
24. Radiologic Technician
Radiologic technicians operate medical imaging equipment to create diagnostic images. Their average annual salary is around $50,000 to $60,000.
25. Electronics Engineering Technician
Electronics engineering technicians assist in developing, testing, and maintaining electronic equipment. Their average annual salary ranges from $50,000 to $60,000.
26. Forensic Science Technician
Forensic science technicians collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $50,000 to $60,000.
27. Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing pharmacy operations. Their average annual salary is around $30,000 to $40,000.
28. Industrial Engineering Technician
Industrial engineering technicians help improve manufacturing processes and systems. Their average annual salary ranges from $50,000 to $60,000.
29. Medical Assistant
Medical assistants support healthcare professionals with clinical and administrative tasks. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $30,000 to $40,000.
30. Quality Control Technician
Quality control technicians test and inspect products to ensure they meet quality standards. Their average annual salary is approximately $40,000 to $50,000.
31. Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write and test code for software applications and systems. Their average annual salary ranges from $50,000 to $70,000.
32. Environmental Engineering Technician
Environmental engineering technicians assist in designing and implementing environmental projects. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $50,000 to $60,000.
33. Health Information Technician
Health information technicians manage patient records and ensure their accuracy and security. Their average annual salary is around $40,000 to $50,000.
34. Radiologic Therapist
Radiologic therapists administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases. Their average annual salary ranges from $80,000 to $90,000.
35. Network Support Technician
Network support technicians troubleshoot and maintain computer networks for organizations. Their average annual salary falls within the range of $50,000 to $60,000.
Conclusion: Nurturing Your AS Degree for Success
An Associate of Science degree serves as a potent catalyst for accessing high-paying positions that require specialized expertise. Whether you're delving into healthcare, technology, or engineering, your AS degree equips you with a foundation that's in high demand across industries. Even if you're starting with no experience, strategic networking, skill highlighting, and embracing internships can pave the way to securing your desired role. Crafting a remarkable resume and composing an impactful cover letter are invaluable tools that can significantly elevate your chances of standing out to potential employers. As you embark on your journey, armed with knowledge and determination, your Associate of Science degree becomes the foundation upon which you build a prosperous and fulfilling career.
