What Jobs Can I Get With An Associate’s Degree?

Learn about a few popular jobs for associate degree graduates.

Due to the state of the economy, more people are returning to school to earn an associate’s degree.

The allures of an associate’s degree are:

  • Earn it in two years or less
  • Shorter degree lengths means less financial investment
  • Eligible for careers sooner, in some of the most in demand fields today
  • Learn close to home at your community college

Popular Associate’s Degree Jobs

Here are a few of some of the most popular jobs an associate’s degree can land you.

Forensic Science Technician

Forensic Science Technicians collect data at crime scenes and analyze it in a police laboratory for use by criminal investigators.

Degree: Associate’s Degree in Applied Science
Median Wage: $51,480

Paralegal

Mostly employed in law firms, paralegals assist lawyers in legal work. Although they are not allowed to practice law, they perform many functions within a law office.

Degree: Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies
Median Wage: $44,480

Registered Nurse

The largest healthcare occupations in the US, Registered Nurses (RN) are the backbone of most healthcare facilities. They provide support to doctors in the care of patients.

Degree: Associate’s Degree in Nursing
Median Wage: $62,450

Accounting Technician

Accounting technicians (bookkeepers) record personal and/or business financial transactions such as purchases, sales, income and payments. They report directly to accountants, who then create monthly or quarterly reports.

Degree: Associate’s Degree in Accounting
Median Wage: $32,510

Teaching Assistant

Teaching assistants work directly with teachers in helping students learn within the classroom. Almost half of all teaching assistants work part-time.

Degree: Associate’s Degree in Education
Median Wage: $22,200

Hairdressers, Hairstylists and Cosmetologists

Be self-employed and work flexible hours while making people look and feel beautiful.

Degree: Associate’s Degree in Cosmetology
Median Hourly Wage: $11.21

Keep in mind that in certain states, some of the jobs listed above require certification for entry-level employment on top of the associate’s degree. Contact your state for more information on requirements for your career.

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