10 Best 2-Year Degrees That Pay 100k: High-Paying Associates

A four-year degree isn't the only path to a six-figure salary. A handful of associate degree programs lead to careers with median pay of $100,000 or more, though these opportunities are more limited and concentrated in specific fields compared to bachelor's or advanced degree paths. Air traffic control, energy, aviation, and select healthcare fields make up most of the options available at this degree level.

Below, we highlight 10 associate degree programs connected to careers with median salaries of $100,000 or more, based on the most recent wage data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Some of these careers require an associate degree as the standard entry point, while others typically require less formal education but still benefit from the specialized training an associate degree provides. Each entry notes which applies, along with the typical career path and current salary data.

Salary Disclaimer: The salary ranges provided in this article are estimates based on national averages. Actual earnings may vary depending on location, employer, level of experience, and industry demand.

Do Many Associate Degrees Pay $100K?

Six-figure pay at the associate degree level is far less common than at the bachelor's or graduate level. Across all fields, workers with an associate degree earn a median salary well below $100,000 overall, and only a small number of specific careers clear that threshold. The fields that do tend to share a few traits: specialized technical training, licensing or certification requirements, high responsibility, or work environments with limited entry points, like air traffic control towers or nuclear power plants.

It's also worth noting that not every high-paying career on this list technically requires an associate degree. Some, like commercial piloting or elevator repair, are traditionally entered through apprenticeships, on-the-job training, or industry-specific certifications, with a formal associate degree program option available and often preferred by employers rather than strictly required. Each entry below notes where this applies.

Because these opportunities are more limited than at other degree levels, researching demand and openings in your specific region is especially important before committing to one of these paths. 

Best 2-Year Degrees That Pay $100K

Each associate degree below connects to at least one career with a median salary of $100,000 or higher, based on the most recent BLS wage data. Some of these fields require an associate degree as the standard entry point, while others are more commonly entered through apprenticeships or on-the-job training, with an associate degree serving as a helpful but optional credential. 

1. Air Traffic Control

An associate degree in air traffic control, often through an FAA-approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program, is one of the most direct paths into this career. Graduates must still pass the FAA's Air Traffic Skills Assessment and complete additional agency-specific training after hiring.

The most recent BLS data shows air traffic controllers earn a median of roughly $148,100 annually, the highest-paying career on this list. Positions are limited and highly competitive, with hiring concentrated at FAA facilities nationwide, so candidates should be prepared for a rigorous and selective application process even after completing the degree.

2. Aviation / Professional Flight

Commercial pilots typically enter the field through flight training and FAA certification rather than a formal degree, though associate degree programs in professional flight or aviation can combine coursework with flight hours toward required certifications. This can streamline the path to a commercial pilot certificate for some students.

According to the most recent BLS data, commercial pilots earn a median of roughly $123,200 annually. This role often serves as a stepping stone toward higher-paying airline pilot positions, which typically require a bachelor's degree and significantly more flight experience.

3. Nuclear Engineering Technology

An associate degree in nuclear engineering technology prepares graduates for roles supporting nuclear power plant operations, radiation monitoring, and reactor systems. Nuclear power reactor operators typically enter through employer-sponsored training programs, often after gaining experience in another technical role, while nuclear technicians more commonly hold a related associate degree directly.

BLS data shows nuclear power reactor operators earn a median of roughly $122,900 annually, while nuclear technicians earn a median of roughly $110,200 annually. Both roles require additional licensing or certification, and reactor operators must also pass exams administered by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

4. Electromechanical / Elevator Technology

Elevator and escalator installers and repairers most commonly enter the field through a formal apprenticeship rather than a degree program, but an associate degree in electromechanical or elevator technology can provide relevant coursework in electrical systems, hydraulics, and safety codes that supports apprenticeship applications.

According to the most recent BLS data, elevator and escalator installers and repairers earn a median of roughly $109,900 annually. Most apprenticeships in this field are sponsored by unions or employers and combine paid on-the-job training with technical instruction over several years.

5. Marine / Maritime Engineering Technology

Ship engineers typically train through maritime academies, which may offer associate, bachelor's, or specialized licensing programs depending on the institution. An associate-level maritime engineering technology program can provide a faster path into the field for students who don't pursue a four-year maritime degree.

The most recent data from the BLS shows ship engineers earn a median of roughly $109,500 annually. Most positions also require a Merchant Mariner Credential issued by the U.S. Coast Guard, along with specific sea service hours depending on vessel type and role.

6. Logistics / Supply Chain Management

An associate degree in logistics or supply chain management covers inventory systems, transportation planning, and operations management. Transportation, storage, and distribution manager roles typically call for several years of relevant work experience beyond formal education, regardless of degree level.

According to the BLS, the most recent data shows transportation, storage, and distribution managers earn a median of roughly $107,200 annually. Because this role is often filled through internal promotion, candidates with an associate degree may need to start in an entry-level logistics or operations role and work their way up to management.

7. Power Plant / Energy Technology

An associate degree in power plant or energy technology covers electrical systems, plant operations, and safety protocols relevant to the energy sector. Power plant operators and power distributors and dispatchers typically enter through employer-sponsored training programs rather than a degree requirement, though relevant coursework can strengthen a candidate's application.

The most recent BLS data shows power distributors and dispatchers earn a median of roughly $106,700 annually, while power plant operators earn a median of roughly $102,000 annually, making these some of the highest-paying trade jobs. Electrical and electronics repairers specializing in powerhouse, substation, and relay systems, a related role in this cluster, earn a median of roughly $103,000 annually and typically enter through a postsecondary non-degree program or apprenticeship.

8. Criminal Justice

An associate degree in criminal justice covers law enforcement procedures, criminal law, and public safety systems, and is commonly held by officers working toward supervisory roles. First-line supervisors of police and detectives typically reach this position after several years of experience as an officer, regardless of degree level, since most departments require candidates to work their way up through the ranks.

According to the most recent BLS data, first-line supervisors of police and detectives earn a median of roughly $106,000 annually. An associate degree can support both initial hiring and promotion eligibility at many departments, though specific requirements vary significantly by agency and state.

9. Radiation Therapy

An associate degree in radiation therapy is the standard entry point for this career, combining coursework in radiation physics and patient care with supervised clinical training. Graduates must pass a national certification exam, and most states also require licensure to practice.

BLS data shows radiation therapists earn a median of roughly $105,300 annually. This field is projected to grow about as fast as average, and because the role involves working directly with cancer patients and other individuals undergoing treatment, strong communication skills matter alongside technical training.

10. Nuclear Medicine Technology

An associate degree in nuclear medicine technology is the typical entry point for this career, preparing graduates to administer radioactive drugs and operate imaging equipment used to diagnose and treat disease. Certification through a national accrediting body is required after graduation, and most states also require licensure.

According to the most recent BLS data, nuclear medicine technologists earn a median of roughly $101,400 annually. Employment growth in this field is projected to be slower than average, so researching demand in your specific region is worth doing before committing to this path.

How to Choose an Associate Degree

Salary potential is a strong starting point, but a few other factors matter just as much when narrowing down which associate degree to pursue. Consider the following before committing to a program:

• Whether the degree is required or optional: Some careers on this list require an associate degree for entry, while others are traditionally filled through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. Understanding which applies to your target career can help you decide whether a degree is the most efficient path.
• Local job availability: Several of these fields have a limited number of employers, such as FAA facilities, nuclear power plants, or maritime shipping companies, so researching opportunities in your region matters more here than in broader fields.
• Licensing and certification requirements: Most careers on this list require passing an exam or earning certification after graduation, so factor that additional time and cost into your overall plan.
• Transferability: If you might want to continue toward a bachelor's degree later, look for associate programs with credits that transfer to four-year institutions in a related field.

Weighing these factors alongside salary potential can help you choose a program that fits both your career goals and your local job market. 

How Much Do Associate Degrees Cost?

Associate degrees are generally one of the more affordable paths to a high-paying career, especially compared to bachelor's or graduate programs. Community colleges, which offer many of the programs on this list, typically charge lower tuition rates than four-year institutions, and many students complete their degree while living at home or working part-time.

Costs vary based on program type and institution. Highly specialized programs, like nuclear engineering technology or maritime academies, can cost more than general associate degrees due to specialized equipment, facilities, or accreditation requirements. In-state public community college tuition tends to offer the lowest overall cost, while private or out-of-state programs typically run higher. Researching total program cost, not just per-credit tuition, can help you get a clearer picture before enrolling, since fees, equipment, and clinical or training requirements can add to the total. 

How to Pay for an Associate Degree

Associate degrees come with a lower price tag than many other paths on this list, and several funding options can reduce the cost even further.

• Federal financial aid: Completing the FAFSA opens the door to federal grants, work-study, and student loans, and many students at this degree level qualify for need-based grants that don't require repayment.
• State and community college grants: Many states offer grant programs specifically for community college students, and some cover tuition entirely for eligible residents.
• Employer-sponsored training: Fields like power plant operations and nuclear technology sometimes offer employer-sponsored training or tuition assistance for employees pursuing a relevant associate degree.
• Military aid: Service members, veterans, and their families may qualify for benefits like the GI Bill or tuition assistance programs, which can cover some or all of the cost of an associate degree.

Because associate degrees typically cost less than four-year or graduate programs, many students can graduate with little to no debt, particularly when combining these funding sources with in-state community college tuition.

FAQs About 2-Year Degrees That Pay 100k 

Here are answers to a few common questions about high-paying associate degrees.

What's the Highest-Paying Associate Degree on This List?

Air traffic control leads the list by a wide margin, with median pay of roughly $148,100 annually. Because positions are limited to FAA facilities and hiring is highly competitive, strong performance in training and testing matters as much as the degree itself.

Do All of These Careers Actually Require an Associate Degree?

No. Several, including commercial piloting, elevator repair, and power plant operations, are traditionally entered through apprenticeships or employer-sponsored training rather than a formal degree. An associate degree can still support these applications, but it isn't always the standard requirement.

Which of These Careers Has the Best Job Outlook?

Radiation therapy is projected to grow about as fast as average, while several others on this list, including nuclear medicine technology, are projected to grow more slowly. Because opportunities in these fields can be limited by region, researching local demand matters more than the national outlook alone.

Can You Transfer an Associate Degree Toward a Bachelor's Degree Later?

In many cases, yes, particularly for degrees in fields like criminal justice or logistics, where four-year programs are widely available. Technical or highly specialized associate degrees, like nuclear engineering technology, may transfer less easily, so it's worth checking articulation agreements with a specific four-year program in mind.

Are These Careers a Good Fit for Career Changers?

Several of these fields, including power plant technology, air traffic control, and logistics management, welcome candidates from other backgrounds, particularly those with relevant work or military experience. Requirements vary by employer, so it's worth researching specific hiring criteria before enrolling in a program.

How Competitive Is Admission to These Programs?

This varies widely. Air traffic control and specialized technical programs, like nuclear engineering technology, often have limited enrollment and specific prerequisites, while fields like criminal justice and logistics are more widely available at community colleges nationwide.

Find High-Paying Associate Degrees

A six-figure career may be easier to reach than you think. Start your journey toward a high-paying career by exploring the programs and resources featured on Learn.org.