These Healthcare Jobs Show Promising Earning Potentials After Completing An Associate’s Degree
Healthcare is a field that is quickly growing, constantly innovating, and always seems to be in demand. With so many areas of specialization currently existing, and with new areas emerging all the time, it can be difficult to know for sure what professional positions will give you a strong start in regards to salary, without requiring the upfront educational investment of a Bachelor’s degree.
While many jobs in healthcare can require Bachelor’s degrees, and some of them may even require the commitment to a more extensive education (like earning a Master’s or a PhD), there are also jobs available for people looking to work in the field right away. Fortunately, because the healthcare industry is so large and so in-demand, there are many amazing opportunities. And, there are certainly openings for those who have an Associate’s degree in the field.
Our research partner, Burning Glass, has compiled data to pinpoint some promising healthcare jobs for those currently holding an Associate’s degree. Let’s take a look…
Now, after reviewing the visual image, let’s take a more in-depth look at each healthcare job on this list, to learn more about each professional role…
Ultrasound Technologist/Sonographer: This is a highly specialized clinical role that is a great match for people who like to work one-on-one with patients, to help solve diagnostic problems and/or monitor changes to other health conditions. Ultrasound technologists, also referred to as sonographers, use special equipment to direct high-frequency sound waves into areas of a patient's body, producing an image. On average, you could earn around $62,262 per year in this healthcare role, after completing an Associate’s degree.
Clinical Case Manager: Do you like to feel like you’re at the center of the action? Do you have an eye for detail? And, are you driven to help people in need? Then perhaps this type of healthcare job might be great fit. A clinical case manager is usually the first point of contact for an individual in crisis, and they often remain at the hub of the experience until the patient is successfully discharged. If the patient is in the hospital, they may monitor their progress, assist their family members and friends, help secure any counseling that may be required, and keep records of all actions taken on the clinical case. This is a terrific position for extroverts. On average, you could earn around $60,559 per year in this healthcare role, after completing an Associate’s degree.
MRI/CT Technician/Technologist: This healthcare job is a terrific option for people who also enjoy working with advanced technology. MRI and CT technicians use either computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to collect images of the interior of the patient’s body for diagnostic examination. They most often work in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient healthcare facilities. Some even travel and make their specialty as a traveling technician, going where they are most needed. On average, you could earn around $58,688 per year in this healthcare role, after completing an Associate’s degree.
Radiologic Technician/Technologist: Radiologic technicians, also known as radiographers, specialize in taking x-rays. Some also work with CT scans and MRI tests and results. The main goal of this position is to take diagnostic images of patients, to help the radiologists and other specialists diagnose illnesses and conditions. If you like working with a team and assisting with a bit of puzzle-solving, then this job could be a terrific match. On average, you could earn around $52,034 per year in this healthcare role, after completing an Associate’s degree.
Laboratory Technologist: If the sight of blood and other fluids doesn’t make you nauseous, then you may be a candidate for this fast-paced clinical role. Laboratory technologists work in hands-on clinical diagnostics and perform lab tests and procedures, such as analyzing body fluids and tissues, to identify microorganisms, bacteria, abnormal cells, or other signs of disease or infection. It’s a good fit for a detail-oriented individual. On average, you could earn around $47,846 per year in this healthcare role, after completing an Associate’s degree.
Physical Therapy Assistant: Do you feel that exercise and movement are key components to staying healthy? Then this job may be just what you are looking for to get started. Physical therapy assistants, often called PTAs, work directly with patients who have mobility issues due to illness or injury. Physical therapy assistants work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist, and they are part of a broader care team. If you enjoy staying active and helping others, then this job is an excellent choice. On average, you could earn around $47,729 per year in this healthcare role, after completing an Associate’s degree.
There are many career paths within the large professional field of healthcare, and there are lots of jobs suited to all different personality types and interests, too. Associate’s degree roles are available for those wanting to get started on their career quickly. If you think a job in healthcare may be for you, check out some of the Stride’s Career Prep options to learn more!
And, be sure to check out the article, Healthcare Certifications That Give You The Biggest Salary Boost, too!