Registered nurses are highly paid professionals.
An advanced degree may be unnecessary for landing a high-paying job. Professions like computer specialist, nuclear technician, registered nurse and dental hygienist are career paths that are in high demand; they can also be achieved by earning an associate's degree. These fields are ideal for individuals seeking an affordable short-term education. Career changers and working professionals should consider associate degree programs, which are available at community colleges or online.
Computer Support Specialist
Employment opportunities for computer support specialists are expected to grow by 18 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Computer support specialists are trained in information technology; they provide technical support and advice to individuals or companies. In addition to earning a college degree, computer support specialists may be required to complete additional job training and certification requirements. In 2009, the average salary for computer support specialists was $44,000.
Nuclear Technicians
Nuclear technicians work alongside nuclear physicists and engineers in laboratory settings. They are trained to monitor radiation levels and operate nuclear test and research equipment. Nuclear technicians can work in a variety of fields including radiology or health care. The minimum education requirement for nuclear technician positions is an associate degree. Nuclear technicians may have to satisfy additional on-the-job training requirements. In 2009 the median salary for nuclear technicians was $67,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Registered Nurse
Registered nurses make up the largest health-care profession, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nursing students who complete their associate degree training are eligible to become registered nurses by taking the National Council Licensure Examination or NCLEX. Registered nurses who wish to specialize in advanced nursing fields must earn a bachelor's degree or higher. An associate degree in nursing can be completed within two years and includes classroom and clinical instruction. In 2009 the average salary for registered nurses was $63,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists work under the supervision of dentists. They perform a wide array of duties such as taking patient x-rays, preparing equipment for dental procedures, counseling patients on oral care and assisting dentists during oral examinations. Other duties of dental hygienists include general office and administrative tasks. In addition to completing their formal training, dental hygienists must be state licensed. In 2009 the average salary for dental hygienists was $67,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment opportunities for dental hygienists are expected to grow by 34 percent between 2008 and 2018.
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