In a recent study by salary data provider Payscale, it was revealed that college graduates with associate degrees can also secure high-paying jobs, with some earning well over $100,000 annually. The report analyzed the education and career paths of over 3 million college graduates, comparing the early-career and mid-career salaries of individuals holding associate and bachelor's degrees.
1. Instrumentation Technology
With an early-career median pay of $55,300 and mid-career median pay of $116,300, instrumentation technology tops the list of the highest-paying associate degrees.
2. Software Engineering
Software engineering follows closely behind, offering an early-career median pay of $67,200 and a mid-career median pay of $112,400.
3. Radiation Therapy
Those pursuing radiation therapy can expect to earn an early-career median pay of $75,200 and a mid-career median pay of $109,500.
4. Fire Technology
Fire technology degree holders earn an early-career median pay of $50,600, with mid-career median pay reaching $102,500.
5. Instrumentation & Control Engineering
Lastly, instrumentation & control engineering provides an early-career median pay of $63,300 and a mid-career median pay of $101,900.
The study also highlighted that students in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) fields are likely to earn the highest salaries overall. Industries such as technology and healthcare, which have faced talent shortages, are increasingly open to hiring individuals with two-year degrees, creating new opportunities for associate degree holders.
Instrument technicians specializing in areas like chemical plants and food processing facilities can enjoy lucrative careers with mid-career salaries averaging $116,300. Similarly, software engineers and radiation therapists are in high demand, commanding mid-career salaries of $112,400 and $109,500, respectively.
The report emphasized that institutions offering specialized training in nursing, engineering, and other STEM-related disciplines produce the highest-earning associate degree holders. Schools like Helene Fuld College of Nursing in New York City and Pacific Union College in Angwin, California, are known for producing graduates with mid-career pay exceeding $100,000.
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