High-Paying Jobs That Only Require a Two-Year Degree

Last updated May 07, 2024 | By Amanda Thompson
High-Paying Jobs That Only Require a Two-Year Degree image

Are you looking for a high-paying job, but don't want to spend four years in college? You're in luck! There are many high-paying jobs that only require a two-year degree. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best options available to you. So what are you waiting for? Start reading and start planning your future today!

Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists are one of the highest-paying jobs that only require a two-year degree. With the average salary for dental hygienists sitting at around $72,000 per year, this career offers a great return on investment. In addition, dental hygienists enjoy good job security and steady demand for their services. As the population ages and people live longer, the need for dental care will only continue to increase. For those looking for a high-paying career that doesn't require years of schooling, dental hygiene is a great option to consider.


MRI Technologist

MRI technologists are in high demand due to the ever-growing medical industry. Hospitals, private practices, and research facilities all require MRI technologists to help provide patient care. The job outlook for MRI technologists is very positive, with a projected 18% growth in jobs in the next decade. In addition, MRI technologists are among the highest-paid workers in the medical field, with a median salary of $73,410 per year. The relatively high pay and positive job outlook make MRI technologist an attractive career choice for those looking to enter the medical field. One of the great things about becoming an MRI technologist is that it only requires a two-year degree. This means that students can enter the workforce relatively quickly and begin earning a good salary. If you are interested in working in the medical field, then becoming an MRI technologist is a great option to consider.

Court Reporter

Court reporters are in high demand and have a very important role in our legal system. They create a verbatim record of proceedings, which means they capture every single word that is spoken during a trial or other legal proceeding. This record can be used by attorneys to prepare for their cases, and it can be used as evidence if the case goes to appeal. Court reporters typically have a two-year degree from an accredited court reporting program. Some states also require court reporters to be certified by a professional organization, such as the National Court Reporters Association. In addition to being skilled in shorthand and transcription, court reporters must also be able to use courtroom technology, such as stenography machines. Court reporters typically earn higher than average salaries, making this a great career choice for those who are looking for a high-paying job that only requires a two-year degree.

Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer

Elevator and escalator installers and repairers are among the highest-paid workers in the country, yet the job only requires a two-year degree. The median annual salary for this occupation is over $85,000, and the top earners make over $130,000 per year. The job outlook is also very positive, with an expected growth rate of 13% over the next ten years. So if you're looking for a high-paying career that doesn't require a four-year degree, elevator and escalator installer and repairer is a great option to consider. Plus, you'll get to work in some of the most interesting and iconic buildings in your city.

Drafter

A drafter is a high-paying job that only requires a two-year degree. The median annual salary for a drafter is $56,830, and the top 10% of earners make more than $85,540 per year. Drafters prepare drawings and plans used by engineers and architects to construct buildings, bridges, and other structures. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create two-dimensional (2D) drawings or three-dimensional (3D) models of projects. Drafters typically specialize in a particular type of drafting, such as mechanical, architectural, or electrical drafting. With experience, drafters can advance to supervisory or managerial positions, or they may become self-employed consultants.

Funeral Service Worker

Funeral service workers are responsible for helping families during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Though the job can be emotionally draining, it is also very rewarding. Funeral service workers typically have a two-year degree, and the average salary is $50,000 per year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in the funeral service industry will grow by 11 percent over the next ten years. Funeral service workers must be compassionate and able to handle stress well. They also need to be organized and detail-oriented, as they will often be responsible for coordinating funerals and managing paperwork. If you are looking for a high-paying job that makes a difference in people's lives, funeral service worker may be the perfect career for you.

Occupational Therapy Assistant

A career as an occupational therapy assistant is a great way to begin a career in the medical field without having to commit to a long and expensive education. With a two-year degree, you can begin working in this rewarding field and earning a good salary. As an occupational therapy assistant, you will help patients regain independence after an injury or illness. You will work with patients of all ages, providing them with guidance and support as they return to their daily activities. This can be an emotionally rewarding job, as you witness your patients make progress towards their goals. In addition to the satisfaction of helping others, you can also expect to earn a good wage as an occupational therapy assistant. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for this profession is $57,260. So, if you are looking for a high-paying job that only requires a two-year degree, consider becoming an occupational therapy assistant.

Nuclear Technician

Many people often associate high-paying jobs with the need for a four-year college degree. However, there are a number of occupations that offer significant salaries without the need for a lengthy and expensive education. One such occupation is that of a nuclear technician. Nuclear technicians typically receive two years of training from an accredited program and are responsible for operating and maintaining equipment that is used in nuclear power plants. Due to the nature of the work, technicians are well-compensated for their skills, with the average salary exceeding $80,000 per year. In addition, technicians often enjoy good job security and benefits, making it an attractive career option for many people.