High-Salary Associate's Degree JobsEven though the U.S. economy is recovering, many people are still unemployed or underemployed. Many others would just like to start a career that is more lucrative and rewarding. If you find yourself in either of these situations, retraining can be the answer. But how can you quickly retrain and then get back into the job market with your new skills?
Here are five 2-year degrees that can help you start a career with an average salary between $35,000 and $65,000 a year:
1) Computer Science Associate’s Degree: Computer science professionals focus on developing new technology rather than using or repairing existing technology. An associate’s degree in this field, combined with good computer skills, can qualify you for positions such as network administrator or systems administrator.
Sample Job and Salary: Systems Administrator, $44,703 - $63,973 Annually*
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2) Criminal Justice Associate’s Degree: Criminal justice associate’s degrees teach you the basics about a variety of law enforcement specialties: corrections, customs, forensics, police work and public safety. Most states now require that you earn such a degree before becoming a police, customs or corrections officer.
Sample Job and Salary: Police Officer, $38,681 - $66,563 Annually*
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3) Information Technology Associate’s Degree: Information technology (IT) careers include database management, network security, software engineering, web development and many more. An Associate’s degree in Information Technology, combined with good computer and/or Internet skills, can prepare you for entry-level positions in any of these fields.
Sample Job and Salary: Technical Support Specialist, $36,403 - $55,115 Annually*
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4) Paralegal Associate’s Degree: Paralegals assist lawyers with investigating clients and witnesses, preparation of briefs and cases, and research into laws and precedents. Because paralegals are now asked to perform many jobs once reserved for lawyers, the comprehensive education offered by an Associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies is preferred by most employers.
Sample Job and Salary: Paralegal, $35,303 - $52,454 Annually
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5) Physical Therapy Associate’s Degree: Associate’s degrees in this field prepare you for entry-level positions as a physical therapy assistant. Physical therapy assistants help licensed physical therapists treat patients with injuries, diseases or age-related problems that impair their physical well-being.
Sample Job and Salary: Physical Therapy Assistant, $35,396 - $52,710 Annually*
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*Income data from Payscale.com (accessed March 2011) represents national averages