AAS degree takes a learner for two years after which they must be placed in the job market within a specific area of discipline for instance health facilities, technological corporations, trades and much more.
Unlike the other associate degrees, the AAS is career-oriented, and takes between 60 and 80 credit hours to complete.
The curriculum comprises four technical options with some general education courses; skills can be obtained through practical sessions, including mock projects.
Air Traffic Controller
An Air Traffic Controller (ATC) ensures the orderly traffic pattern of aircraft within controlled areas and direct takeoff, landing or in-flight procedures to ensure that no two aircraft meet midair.
Requirements for an ATC generally consist of an AAS degree in air traffic management or a related field together with specific training and accreditation from the FAA.
This position requires good communications and interpersonal skills and the capacity to meet a lot of pressure.
Air traffic controllers receive an average salary of about $137,380 per year, on average.
Nuclear Technician
This type of nuclear professionals work to maintain nuclear power plants or research facilities’ equipment, emphasis is made on evaluating radiation exposure and inspecting nuclear equipment for issues as well as making sure all the guidelines and measures regarding safety are followed.
In order to start work in this field, candidates need to possess an AAS degree in nuclear technology or in related areas; candidates should also undergo training in radiation safety as well as obtain certification as such.
The average earnings for a nuclear technician amount to $101,740 a year.
Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapists have a significant function within cancer treatment, administering high energy waves to get rid of cancer cells without affecting the healthy ones.
They are involved in patient positioning, and controlling and maintaining devices used in radiation therapy as well as evaluating treatment for toxicity.
As for this profession, a candidate must possess an AAS degree in radiation therapy and certification from any recognized body and clinical experience. The estimated mean salary of a radiation therapist is $98,300 per annum.
Dental Hygienist
They play an important role in the overall health of the oral cavity performing such activities as scaling, examination, diagnosis, making of radiographic images and giving dental health advice.
They play an important role in destructing diseases of teeth such as removing plagues and tartar prior to the formation of cavities and periodontal diseases.
In order to become a dental hygienist, this individual must have an AAS degree in dental hygiene to become state licensed, through passing particular written and practical tests. The average remuneration of the dental hygienists is about 74,070 USD per year.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Sonography technology or commonly known ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses frequencies in the ultrasonic range of sound to produce real-time visual images of internal body structures thus a very important tool in diagnosing and evaluating many treatments.
It can be widely used for assessing the organ function as well as for providing the guidance during the biopsy procedures, and for the tracking of fetal growth in obstetrics, cardiology, and musculoskeletal medicine.
Currently, diagnostic medical sonographers are expected to possess, at minimum, an Associate of Applied Science degree in diagnostic medical sonography or a related health profession and certification from one of the professional certifying organizations. Sonographers can earn median of about $78,210 per year.
Aerospace Engineering Technician
Aerospace engineering technicians assist aerospace engineers in the design, testing, and maintenance of aircraft and spacecraft.
Their responsibilities comprise building and testing prototypes, analyzing data, and confirming aircraft systems function within design specifications.
To enter this field, candidates generally require an AAS degree in aerospace technology or a similar field, along with CAD skills and a solid understanding of engineering principles.
The median annual salary for aerospace engineering technicians is about $67,240.
Computer Programmer
Programming tasks cover multiple industries, such as software development, web design, data analysis, and automation, enabling professionals to build applications, oversee databases, and design algorithms to meet specific business requirements.
The value of coding boot camps and associate degree programs in computer science is in their provision of practical skills and real-world experience, serving as accessible routes for individuals wanting to enter the tech sector swiftly.
As the demand for programmers rises across industries, the median salary for computer programmers is around $82,240 per year.
Web Developer
Web development encompasses the creation and upkeep of websites and applications, involving tasks such as user interface design, coding, and database management.
Core technologies in web development comprise HTML for content structure, CSS for styling, and JavaScript for interactivity.
Developers may leverage frameworks like React and Angular to enhance efficiency. Aspiring web developers typically pursue coding boot camps and AAS degrees in web development or computer science, offering vital skills and hands-on experience.
The median annual salary for web developers is around $67,990.
Medical Sonographer
Sonographers use different imaging techniques, mainly ultrasound, to produce precise images of internal organs and structures for diagnosis.
This non-invasive method uses high-frequency sound waves to observe conditions in fields like obstetrics, cardiology, and abdominal health.
To become a sonographer, candidates generally need an AAS degree in diagnostic medical sonography, plus certification from an accredited professional organization, which usually involves passing a comprehensive exam. The median salary for sonographers is about $65,620 per year.
Electrical Engineering Technician
Electrical engineering technicians are essential in designing and testing electrical equipment, such as power generation, communications, and consumer electronics systems.
Their duties involve evaluating electrical systems, performing tests to verify functionality, and working with engineers to enhance designs.
To excel in this sector, individuals generally require an AAS degree in electrical technology or a similar field, along with practical training and knowledge of industry standards.
The median salary for electrical engineering technicians is around $63,660 per year.
Pursuing an AAS degree provides numerous high-paying career options in different industries, equipping individuals with in-demand specialized skills.
As the job market evolves, these positions not only ensure financial stability but also play a crucial role in technological and healthcare advancements.
By investing in education and training, graduates can secure fulfilling careers that positively influence their chosen fields.