Is a bachelor’s degree or higher necessary to earn a six-figure salary? Eva Chan, a career expert at the job resource platform “Resume Genius,” believes that by 2025, a four-year degree is not the only path to earning a high salary and lucrative benefits.
According to Chan, an associate degree that can typically be obtained in 18 to 24 months may be a faster and more economical option. Associate degree programs are designed to help you start working more quickly and are advantageous for job seekers looking to save on tuition and time.
Drawing on data and projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Resume Genius has identified the highest-paying jobs that can be obtained with an associate degree. The report does not cover occupations with a median salary below $49,500 or jobs with significantly lower growth projections.
Based on Resume Genius data, here are some of the highest-paying positions for associate degree seekers in 2025:
– Median annual salary: $144,580
– Projected employment growth (2023-2033): 3%
Air traffic controllers are responsible for managing aircraft traffic on the ground and in the air. This position also offers comprehensive federal benefits, including retirement plans and health insurance.
To become an air traffic controller, candidates must be U.S. citizens who can speak English clearly and pass the FAA’s medical exam and background check. The FAA mandates that individuals hired for this role must be under 30 years old since the mandatory retirement age for air traffic controllers is 56.
Interested in pursuing a career as an air traffic controller? Completion of designated courses and training at an FAA-affiliated institution is necessary. Passing the FAA’s unified exam, which includes written and oral components, is required for entry into training. Regardless of the pathway chosen, candidates must undergo FAA professional training and pass various exams, including written tests, simulator operations, and oral assessments.
According to the latest Human Capital Development Plan released by the Federal Aviation Administration, nearly 9,000 air traffic controllers are expected to be recruited by 2028 to address workforce gaps and enhance aviation safety.
– Median annual salary: $104,240
– Projected employment growth (2023-2033): -6%
Nuclear technicians work in control rooms, labs, or power plants to support energy production, research, and nuclear waste management. They ensure the safe operation of nuclear reactors, monitor levels of radioactive substances, and uphold safety and environmental standards. Additionally, nuclear technicians diagnose and repair equipment malfunctions to ensure optimal functioning of power stations.
Obtaining an associate degree in nuclear science, nuclear technology, or related fields serves as a stepping stone to securing this job. Despite a downward trend in job growth expectations for nuclear technicians, their salaries remain high, and this position can provide pathways to other opportunities in the nuclear energy management field.
– Median annual salary: $101,990
– Projected employment growth (2023-2033): 3%
Radiation therapists work within oncology teams to aid in treating cancer patients. They manage and operate medical equipment, closely collaborate with patients throughout the treatment process, and offer technical and emotional support. Radiation therapists play critical roles in cancer treatment teams.
The demand for this position is significant. Besides earning an associate degree in radiation therapy or a related healthcare field, obtaining additional licenses and certifications, including passing national certification exams, is necessary.
– Median annual salary: $97,020
– Projected employment growth (2023-2033): -1%
Nuclear medicine technologists are healthcare professionals specialized in using radioactive isotopes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in the medical field. They require knowledge in medicine, physics, and chemistry and must be proficient in operating nuclear medicine equipment, such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scanners. Additionally, they need strong communication skills and professional ethics to ensure patient and healthcare personnel safety.
Nuclear medicine technologists use radioactive substances for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other diseases. To become one, individuals must obtain a certified associate degree in nuclear medicine technology.
Some states also require additional licenses, which may involve passing exams such as those conducted by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Additional educational and training requirements may also need to be fulfilled.
– Median annual salary: $94,260
– Projected employment growth: 9%
Dental hygienists are dental healthcare professionals primarily responsible for providing oral health education and preventative dental care to prevent tooth and gum diseases. They work closely with dentists to offer comprehensive oral health services to patients. Dental hygienists are responsible for cleaning teeth, conducting oral health assessments, and assisting patients in learning how to care for their teeth.
According to the American Association of Dental Hygienists (AEDHA), in addition to acquiring an associate degree in dental hygiene (which may take nearly three years due to additional laboratory and clinical learning requirements), most states require hygienists to pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and regional or state clinical board exams.
(Report referenced from CNBC)