Top Paying Healthcare Jobs with an Associate’s Degree
The healthcare industry continues to be one of the fastest growing service-providing sectors in the country. Most healthcare jobs are highly specialized and require applicants have a specialized degree. A license and an associate’s degree may be all that is required to land some very lucrative jobs in the industry. Some of these professions pay a median annual salary of over $50,000, depending on experience and geographic location.
Healthcare careers that offer a median pay over $50,000 a year with an associate’s degree include:
Radiation Therapist – $74,980
Radiation therapists work with a team of specialists who provide radiation treatment for cancer patients by using specialized equipment. Radiation therapists may qualify to work after completing a 12-month certificate programs. Most employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists – $68,560
Nuclear medicine technologists scan patients for internal physical anomalies using scanners and radioactive drugs. Technologists need an associate’s degree in nuclear medicine technology. Employers hire nuclear medicine technologists with a license and degree in the field.
Dental Hygienists – $68,250
Dental hygienists work in a dentist’s office primarily providing teeth cleaning services. They also examine patients for oral diseases and educate patients on ways to take care of their dental health. Employers hire dental hygienists who are licensed and have an associate’s degree in dental hygiene.
Registered Nurses – $64,690
Registered nurses may work in a variety of settings such as hospitals and clinics. They are primarily responsible for direct patient care. Nurses may enter the field after completing an associate’s degree in a nursing program at an accredited college.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers – $64,380
Diagnostic medical sonographers perform ultrasound examinations. They work with special imaging equipment that uses sound waves. Most sonographers have an associate’s degree, although one-year certificate programs are available for healthcare professionals already employed in the industry
Radiologic Technologists – $54,340
Radiologic technologists work in hospitals, doctor’s offices and imaging clinics. They perform x-rays on patients. Most radiologic technologists earn an associate’s degree, although there are certificate programs available. They are also required to have a license before employment.
Respiratory Therapists – $54,280
Respiratory therapists work with patients who have breathing conditions such as asthma or emphysema. They may also assist patients during emergencies. Employers hire respiratory therapists who are licensed and have a minimum of an associate’s degree. Most employers prefer applicants with more education.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Retrieved April 25, 2012, from Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/ooh/
