Five High-Paying Careers in Two Years or Less
Working Without a Bachelor’s Degree Can Pay Off
Elizabeth Weiss McGolerick, ClassesUSAPrint Email
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Digg Feel like the absence of a bachelor’s degree on your resume is forcing
you to settle for a second-rate job? With today’s myriad opportunities to
earn certificates and associate degrees, you can change your career, your
salary, and your life in just a short amount of time.
Check out these five high-paying careers — no bachelor’s degree required!
1. Dental Hygienist
Employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow much faster than average
for all occupations through 2014, ranking among the Bureau of Labor
Statistics’ list of fastest-growing occupations.
To practice in a dental office, hygienists must earn an associate degree or
certificate from a school accredited by the American Dental Association
Commission of Dental Accreditation. A base of biology, chemistry, and math
courses are advised, and program coursework will include clinical,
laboratory, and classroom instruction.
Median annual earnings: $58,350.
2. Fashion Designer
In this creative field, an inherent artistic ability and eye for detail,
color, balance, and proportion are necessary. Ingenuity is key, as are
sewing, pattern-making, and sketching abilities.
Designers usually hold at least a two-year associate degree in fashion design
or fine arts. They must be knowledgeable about textiles, ornamentation,
fabrics, and fashion trends, and exhibit communication and presentation
skills, problem-solving abilities, and the willingness to work occasional
long hours and travel to trade and fashion shows.
Median annual earnings: $55,840.
3. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Also known as ultrasonographers, diagnostic medical sonographers can
specialize in obstetrics and gynecology, abdominal or breast sonography, or
neurosonography.
A strong background in math and science is recommended, as associate degree
coursework will include anatomy, physics, and physiology. A good bedside
manner enables the sonographer to explain complex procedures to patients and
reassure those who fear the health matters the testing may reveal.
Median annual earnings: $52,490.
4. Forensic Science Technician
You’ve seen the TV shows — these professionals collect and analyze physical
evidence and document laboratory methods and findings. Computer skills and
attention to detail are crucial as collection and processing of materials
must be spot-on to safeguard evidence.
Forensic science technicians should develop a strong base in math and science
as preparation for their associate degree, typically earned in applied
science or science-related technology. Coursework will include laboratory
work and hands-on learning. Once in the field, technicians can choose to
specialize in a certain type of analysis or examination.
Median annual earnings: $44,010.
5. Paralegal
Lawyers assume ultimate responsibility for legal work, but they often
delegate tasks to paralegals, also called legal assistants. Paralegals help
prepare for trials, hearings, and meetings; investigate facts; identify
appropriate laws and decisions; and, after analyzing and organizing
information, prepare and present reports of their findings.
Most paralegals have an associate degree in paralegal studies, however,
intensive certification programs are also available and can often be
completed in just a few months.
Median annual earnings: $39,130.
All salaries listed are median annual earnings based on 2004 data from the
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).