Can an Associate Degree Get You a Job?

Earning an associate degree can open doors to various career opportunities, but is it enough to secure a stable job in today’s job market?

The good news is that associate degrees provide a solid foundation for many fields, offering specialized knowledge and skills that can lead to well-paying jobs across industries. Additionally, associate degree programs are often designed to be more accessible and cost-effective than four-year degrees, making them an attractive option for students looking to enter the workforce quickly or change careers.

With growing demand in industries such as healthcare, technology and skilled trades, an associate degree can be a strong investment in career success.

What Jobs Can You Get With an Associate Degree?

An associate degree can provide a strong starting point in numerous career paths, particularly those that require a technical or specialized skill set. Many industries recognize the value of these degrees, especially when paired with relevant certifications or hands-on experience.

Here are some common occupations to consider, with advertised U.S. labor statistics being provided by Lightcast.

Healthcare Jobs with an Associate Degree

Occupational Therapy Assistants. Occupational assistants work directly with patients in healthcare settings to help them regain mobility and independence after injuries or illnesses.

• Annual Median Earnings (2023): $46,000

Nuclear Medicine Technologists. Technologists use radioactive drugs (radiopharmaceuticals) and specialized equipment to help physicians diagnose and treat diseases.

• Annual Median Earnings (2023): $85,600
   

Technology and Computer Science Jobs with an Associate Degree

Computer Support Specialists. Support specialists assist individuals and businesses with troubleshooting hardware and software issues.

• Annual Median Earnings (2023): $54,700

Web Page Designer. Web page designers create, design and maintain websites, ensuring functionality, aesthetics and user experience.

• Annual Median Earnings (2023): $75,700
   

Skilled Trade Jobs with an Associate Degree

Electricians. Electricians install, repair and maintain electrical systems in residential, commercial and industrial settings.

• Annual Median Earnings (2023): 56,100

Paralegals and Legal Assistants. Paralegals and legal assistants support lawyers by conducting research, drafting documents and organizing case files.

• Annual Median Earnings (2023): $56,000
   

Business and Administration Jobs with an Associate Degree

Office Managers. Office managers oversee daily operations in business settings, coordinating administrative tasks, managing personnel and maintaining efficiency.

• Annual Median Earnings (2023): $58,400

Customer Service Worker. Customer service supervisors manage teams responsible for client interactions, ensuring high customer satisfaction and support.

• Annual Median Earnings (2023): $36,600

*Some careers may require additional certifications or hands-on experience.

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Associate Degree vs. High School Diploma

Sarah Lathrop, program chair for Applied Management and Associate of Applied Science degrees at Franklin University, emphasizes the importance of achieving different education milestones:

“It's important to recognize that every milestone matters, from early childhood education to higher education. However, an associate degree can be a strong point of entry in various career paths, especially those that come with the opportunity to earn a career-related credential. Additionally, some companies or industries promote employees with an associate degree.”

With this in mind, it's important to recognize that an associate-level university or college degree typically leads to better job stability, career growth and higher pay. Compared to a high school diploma, an associate degree tends to provide greater access to skilled positions and long-term career prospects.

Job Options

A high school diploma may limit job seekers to entry-level roles with fewer growth opportunities. Many jobs available to high school graduates involve basic administrative work, customer service or manual labor, which may not offer significant career progression.

In contrast, an associate degree opens doors to more skilled fields with higher earning potential, equipping graduates with specialized knowledge in areas such as healthcare, technology and business.

Lathrop highlights the appeal of associate degree graduates to employers, saying:

“Employers see associate degree graduates from recognized community colleges and universities as well-prepared for the workforce. These graduates not only have a two-year education but have also persisted and graduated, often while working and tending to responsibilities. This makes them desirable employees who are ready for employer-specific and/or industry training.”

Earning Potential

Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics consistently show that associate degree holders earn higher median annual pay ($57,148) than those with only a high school diploma ($48,360). 

This difference in earning potential increases over time as employees gain experience and move into more advanced roles. Many fields that require an associate degree offer clear pathways to salary growth, particularly in technology and healthcare, where skilled professionals remain in demand.

Unemployment Rate

An associate degree also lowers the risk of unemployment compared to those with just a high school diploma. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of February 2025, the unemployment rate for individuals aged 25 and older with only a high school diploma was 4.2%, while those with an associate degree faced a lower unemployment rate of just 3.5%.  

This reflects the added job security that comes with specialized training and a skill set that is in demand across various industries.

Economic downturns and automation tend to impact lower-skilled jobs more significantly, making an associate degree a valuable asset for long-term employability and career resilience.

Do You Need a Bachelor’s Degree for a High-Paying Career?

While a bachelor’s degree can open up more career opportunities, an associate degree can still lead to a high-paying and stable career. Many jobs that require an associate degree provide competitive salaries and strong job security.

Employers recognize the value of practical experience and industry certifications, which can often outweigh the need for a four-year degree. Lathrop explains, “An associate degree represents an important milestone beyond high school, demonstrating the ability to complete a significant educational goal. It shows potential employers that the individual can finish what they start, which is a valuable trait in the workforce.”

However, in some cases, a bachelor’s degree may be necessary for career advancement. Higher-level management positions, specialized technical roles and professional fields such as engineering, law or medicine often require a bachelor's or a master's degree.

Lathrop adds, “Employers may prefer or require a bachelor's degree for certain roles, which could limit your opportunities for growth. In addition, in some industries, an associate degree may be perceived as less valuable than a bachelor's degree, which can affect job prospects and salary potential.”

Can an Associate Degree Help You Switch Careers?

Many professionals who feel stuck in declining industries or those who seek more fulfilling job opportunities pursue associate degrees to gain relevant skills.

Fields such as healthcare, technology and skilled trades offer particularly strong prospects for career changers, as they often have a high demand for skilled workers.

Benefits for Career Changers

An associate degree requires a relatively short amount of time to complete the program, typically two years or less, making it ideal for those looking to shift careers. Many programs also provide hands-on training that prepares graduates for immediate job readiness, allowing them to enter the workforce quickly.

Additionally, flexible learning options, including online and evening classes, enable students to balance education with their current job or personal commitments. These factors can make an associate degree worth the investment for those seeking to enter a new industry with minimal disruption to their lives.

How to Make the Most of Your Associate Degree

Gaining real-world experience can make a significant difference in jobs you can get with an associate degree. Internships, apprenticeships or part-time work in the chosen field can provide valuable insights and make candidates more competitive in the job market.

Lathrop highlights the importance of practical experience, saying:

“Hands-on experience is always important as it sets you apart from someone who doesn't have it when it comes to hiring decisions. It also gives students the opportunity to explore the job and its responsibilities. Work-based learning is crucial, especially in hands-on career and technical fields. For example, in Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees, two-thirds of the degree can be hands-on, whether it be in person or through online/digital simulation.”

In addition to experience, earning certifications can further enhance a résumé. Many industries offer professional credentials that demonstrate expertise in specific skills, increasing credibility with employers.

Graduates should also take advantage of networking opportunities by attending industry events, joining professional organizations and connecting with mentors who can provide guidance on career growth.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Career Goals

An associate degree can be a valuable stepping stone toward a rewarding career. Whether entering the workforce for the first time, changing industries or seeking career advancement, an associate degree can provide the skills and credentials needed for professional success.

Franklin University offers flexible, online associate programs built to give you the skills you need to enter the job you want. If you’re ready to take the next step in your educational and professional endeavors, connect with us to get more information or apply today.
 

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