What Two-Year Degree Jobs Are in Demand? 5 Jobs to Consider

Key takeaways

Veterinary techs, radiation therapists, and sonographers are among the top in-demand jobs that require a two-year degree. Explore key facts:

• Veterinary technicians, a job that requires an associate degree, have a projected job outlook of 9 percent over the next decade, which is much faster than average [1].

• Popular majors for associate degrees typically include business, criminal justice, and information technology (IT).

• You can earn your two-year degree by choosing a major, applying to schools, and completing the program requirements.

Two-year degrees, often referred to as associate degrees, take less time to complete than a bachelor’s or master’s degree and can still lead to high-paying, in-demand roles in the United States. Explore two-year degree jobs, what each role entails, and additional requirements and qualifications. Additionally, learn how to obtain a two-year degree from a college or university.

Top two-year degree jobs in demand in the US

Many industries, including business, information technology, and health care, offer jobs that require two-year degrees to qualify for the position. To better understand all your options, explore five in-demand jobs that require a two-year degree in the US below. 

1. Veterinary technician 

Median annual US Salary (BLS): $45,980 [1]

Job outlook (estimated growth from 2024 to 2034): 9 percent [1]

Recommended: Associate degree and Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE)

Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians in overseeing the medical care of animals and pets. In this role, you'll work directly with animals in a laboratory or animal hospital setting, taking their X-rays, running medical tests, and helping them prepare and recover from surgery.

To become a vet tech, you'll need a two-year associate degree, with some employers requiring candidates to pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). You can take the exam through the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). 

2. Radiation therapist

Median annual US Salary (BLS): $101,190 [2]

Job outlook (estimated growth from 2024 to 2034): 2 percent [2]

Requirements: Associate degree, radiation license, or certification

As a radiation therapist, you work with patients diagnosed with cancer who choose to undergo radiation treatment. Your responsibilities include helping patients prepare for radiation and managing and overseeing the radiation treatment.

To become a radiation therapist, you must have a two-year associate degree from an accredited institution or a bachelor’s degree. Many states require radiation therapists to possess state licensure or certification to qualify for a job. Radiation therapists must register with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and may also obtain certification from their program before becoming licensed by the state.

3. Network support specialist

Median annual US salary: $61,550 [3]

Job outlook (estimated growth from 2024 to 2034): -3 percent [3]

Requirements: Associate degree

Network support specialists help users ensure that their computer network functions properly. As a network support specialist, you may help individuals or businesses with computer usage and technical problems.

Depending on the job, the requirements to become a computer support specialist may vary. Typically, employers require a two-year degree and computer software and programming knowledge. To expand your knowledge and enhance your skills, consider a bachelor’s degree in information technology (IT) or obtaining IT certifications.

Read more: What Does a Technical Support Specialist Do? Career Guide

4. Sonographer

Median annual US salary: $89,340 [4]

Job outlook (estimated growth from 2024 to 2034): 13 percent [4]

Requirements: Associate degree; one-year certificates are also often accepted

As a sonographer, you create and analyze the images that patients see on ultrasounds. These images give an inside view of the human body to detect tumors, cancers, diseases, and pregnancy.

Sonographers need an associate degree and knowledge of how to use medical equipment. Some states require licensure to become a sonographer, which is obtainable once you’ve completed your degree and certification. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the following organizations offer professional certifications for sonographers [5]:

• American Registry of Radiologic Technologists

• Cardiovascular Credentialing International

• American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography

• Point-of-Care Ultrasound Certification Academy

5. Paralegal

Median annual US salary: $61,010 [6]

Job outlook (estimated growth from 2024 to 2034): 0 percent [6]

Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree

As a paralegal, you assist lawyers on cases by organizing files and information, researching aspects of cases, and taking notes during trials and meetings.

To become a paralegal, you must obtain an associate degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Employers may accept candidates who have completed a paralegal certificate program, depending on the role you apply for. You may opt to obtain a paralegal certificate from a college or university in addition to completing your two-year degree.

What job pays the most with a two-year degree?

An air traffic controller is one of the highest-paying jobs you can get with a two-year degree. The BLS  reports that the median annual salary for this role is $144,580 or $69.51 per hour [7]. 

Majors for two-year degrees

When choosing a major in college, consider which major best fits your career path. For a two-year degree, selecting a major that gives you many possible job prospects is important. Explore the following majors to receive your two-year degree:

Business

With a major in business, you can explore careers in business management and administration or begin to think about starting your own business. An associate degree in business typically focuses on the basics of running and managing a business and analyzing marketing trends and finances.

Information technology

To explore a career in computer programming, data analysis, or web development, consider majoring in information technology. A two-year degree in information technology can teach you about computer programs and how to develop them, and give you the skills you need to start your career.

Criminal justice

Criminal justice majors may pursue a career in law or law enforcement. Their coursework typically covers the intricacies of the criminal justice system and how to apply that information to trials and investigations.

How to get a two-year degree

To obtain your two-year degree, find a college that offers your desired major. Requirements may vary depending on the program you attend, though two-year degrees usually require the completion of 60 credit hours to graduate.

1. Choose an area of study.

Determine what your interests are and take time to decide what you want from your career. Once you decide on your career goals, you can begin researching majors to pursue as a degree program, or you may choose to get a degree in general studies.

2. Apply to schools.

Find a school that offers an associate degree in your intended major. Start the application process once you find an accredited institution that fits your needs. Apply to schools through online application forms or contact the school to determine what materials you need to apply.

3. Complete the program.

Once you’ve taken all the required classes, you may graduate and begin to look for jobs in your field. An associate degree in your intended career field, as well as any internships, years of experience, or certifications, may make your resume stand out to future employers.

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