In 2025, a four-year degree isn’t the only path to a six-figure salary with great benefits, says Eva Chan, career expert at Resume Genius.
Associate degrees, which typically take 18 to 24 months to earn, can be a faster, more affordable alternative, she says.
Associate programs are “designed to help you start working faster,” Chan says, and they’re beneficial for job seekers “looking to save on both tuition fees and time.”
Especially when combined with resume boosters like internships, clinical experience or volunteer work — which are often built into these programs — an associate degree can open the door to roles with high-earning potential, she says.
Resume Genius identified the top-paying associate degree jobs using data and projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The report did not include jobs with median annual salaries below $49,500 or significantly low growth projections.
Here are the top-paying associate degree jobs of 2025, according to Resume Genius.
1. Air traffic controller
- Median salary: $144,580
- Estimated job growth (2023-2033): 3%
Air traffic controllers manage the flow of aircraft on the ground and in the air. The job is great for people who value structure, communication and high-stakes work, and also possess strong spatial awareness skills, Chan says. Another perk of the role is that it comes with a comprehensive federal benefits package, including retirement planning and health coverage.
Air traffic controllers are required to be United States citizens who speak English clearly enough to be understood through control systems. They also must be 30 or younger when they’re hired, as the job comes with a mandatory retirement age of 56, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Certification requires passing the FAA’s pre-employment tests, including the Air Traffic Controller Specialists Skills Assessment Battery, in addition to medical and security screenings. After that, you’ll undergo academy training covered by the FAA before you’re out on the job, Chan says.
Despite the number of screenings and extra trainings, air traffic controller jobs are a “really good opportunity” for younger applicants, as the FAA is always seeking new candidates, Chan says.
2. Nuclear technician
- Median salary: $104,240
- Estimated job growth (2023-2033): -6%
Nuclear technicians work in control rooms, laboratories or power plants supporting energy generation, research and nuclear waste management. It’s a highly technical job, best suited for someone with strong analytical skills and attention to detail, as well as a background in science and math.
Earning an associate degree in nuclear science, nuclear technology or a related field will best equip you for this role. Once you’re hired, you’ll also need to undergo extensive training to ensure you’re prepared for the intricate operational and regulatory aspects of the job, Chan says.
While the estimated job growth for nuclear technicians is declining, salaries still remain high, and the role can provide avenues for other opportunities in nuclear energy management, Chan says.
3. Radiation therapist
- Median salary: $101,990
- Estimated job growth (2023-2033): 3%
Radiation therapists work on oncology teams to help treat people with cancer. They manage and operate medical machines and work closely with patients throughout their treatment, providing both technical and emotional support.
The role may be a great fit for someone who is passionate about health care and helping others, Chan says. Plus, she says, the job is in high demand.
In addition to earning an associate degree in radiation therapy or a related health-care field, you will also need to earn additional licensing and certification, including passing a national certification exam, Resume Genius reports. Flexible learning programs with online learning and in-person rotations are available, though, Chan says.
4. Nuclear medicine technologist
- Median salary: $97,020
- Estimated job growth (2023-2033): -1%
Nuclear medicine technologists use radioactive materials to diagnose and treat cancer and other medical conditions. It’s a highly specialized role, combining aspects of health care, oncology, cardiology and neurology, Chan says — one best suited for people who are tech-savvy with a strong interest in pharmacology and health care.
To become a nuclear medicine technologist, you should earn your associate degree from an accredited nuclear medicine technology program, Chan says.
Some states also require additional licensing, she says, which involves passing an exam such as the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board exam or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam. You may also have to meet other education and training requirements.
5. Dental hygienist
- Median salary: $94,260
- Estimated job growth: 9%
Dental hygienists are responsible for performing teeth cleanings, conducting oral health assessments and helping patients learn how to take care of their teeth.
Someone who is interested in dental care, hands-on tasks and working with others may enjoy this job, Chan says. It’s a social role, as hygienists typically work closely with dentists and other office staff while serving as a primary point of contact for patients.
In addition to needing an associate degree in dental hygiene, which can take closer to three years due to the additional lab and clinical learning requirements, most states also require hygienists to pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination alongside a regional or state clinical board exam, according to the American Dental Hygienists Association.
Source – https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/07/high-paying-jobs-you-can-land-with-an-associate-degree.html