Based on weekly earning data from , BLS estimates that those with the highest educational levels earn on average three times more than those with the lowest levels of education.
The median weekly earnings for U. Also, their unemployment rate is 6. Related: 4 Different College Degree Levels. Their unemployment rate is 4. Their unemployment rate is also slightly better, at 4. However, a common issue with people who partially attended college is that there is a high likelihood that they have accumulated debt from their college years, but lack the degree that would increase their income enough to make the debt more easily payable.
Associate degrees are the most basic form of college education and typically last two or three years. They can be pursued at some colleges and universities, but also at community colleges, vocational schools and technical colleges, depending on the preferred specialization. Their average unemployment rate is 3. Bachelor's degrees are the most common form of college education and typically require four years of full-time study, with some needing five years.
Their unemployment rate is also significantly lower, at 2. A master's degree can be pursued after earning a bachelor's level education, as a way of improving the student's knowledge on the subjects studied during the bachelor's program. Their unemployment rate is slightly lower than the rate for bachelor's degree graduates, at 2. A professional degree, also called a first professional degree, is a degree that is pursued after earning your master's degree and is meant to provide training and preparation for a specific profession, like medicine or law.
A doctoral degree is the most advanced form of higher education and is awarded to master's studies graduates who successfully complete and promote independent research, presenting it to a commission in the form of a dissertation. Besides higher expected lifetime earnings, earning a college degree can bring you other benefits.
Some of them are:. Related: 9 Benefits of Going to College. Dental hygienists work closely with dentists, reporting their findings and assisting in developing treatment plans for patients. They keep detailed records and educate patients on the best practices in oral care.
Dental hygienists need knowledge of anatomy, medical ethics, safety protocols, and periodontics. Two-year college degrees in dental hygiene accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation can prepare students for licensure as a dental hygienist. Magnetic resonance imaging MRI technologists operate scanners that use magnetic resonance technology to create diagnostic images of patients' organs and soft tissues.
They inject contrast dye into patients to produce images. Some MRI technologists begin their careers as radiologic technologists before choosing this specialty.
Diagnostic medical sonographers operate devices that use soundwaves to create images used in medical tests and procedures. Sonographers perform sonograms and ultrasounds on all parts of the body, often specializing in areas such as the abdomen, heart, or muscles. They must gather essential information for physicians, often reviewing images and reporting on any abnormalities or anomalies. These professionals must understand anatomy and physiology, sonographic technology, and medical terminology, which they can achieve through an associate in medical sonography or a related field.
Professional certifications through organizations like the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers enhance career opportunities.
Cardiovascular technologists and technicians gather diagnostic and treatment data about the circulatory and respiratory systems. They carry out tests and help with procedures to assess heart and lung health.
Duties for cardiovascular technologists and technicians include monitoring heart rates, assisting with catheterization, administering electrocardiograms, and measuring lung capacity. Cardiovascular technologists and technicians work in hospitals and private medical offices.
Many schools offer associate degrees or postsecondary certifications in cardiovascular technology. Although not required, certification through organizations like Cardiovascular Credentialing International demonstrates expertise to potential employers.
Aerospace engineering and operations technicians work with fellow engineering personnel to operate, install, and maintain equipment and instruments used to monitor air and space vehicles.
They collect data on parts, assembly, and mechanism performance; ensure computer systems and devices meet safety and industry standards; and inspect equipment to detect malfunctions and potential problems. They also run computer simulations, automation programs, and quality assurance tests on aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles.
Aerospace engineering and operations technicians need skills in mathematics, general engineering, physics, and computer technology. An associate degree in aerospace engineering or engineering technology prepares students for careers with aerospace manufacturing companies, research and development agencies, and engineering services firms, making it one of the top associate degrees that pay well.
Electrical and electronics engineering technicians assist in the design, development, and production of computers, communication and navigation equipment, and comparable devices. They conduct diagnostic tests, monitor performance, and resolve problems related to design and function. Electrical engineering technicians often install and maintain electrical systems, while electronics engineering technicians focus on identifying and fixing malfunctions.
Both positions require knowledge of engineering design principles and practices, circuitry, physics, and programming languages. A two-year degree in electrical or electronics engineering blends didactic coursework with practical laboratory classes to hone mechanical, observational, and logical-thinking skills.
Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians carry out essential maintenance and repair on aircraft structures and systems. Aircraft equipment mechanics and technicians focus on mechanical and electrical components such as wings, brakes, and electric systems. Avionics equipment mechanics and technicians work on instruments like radios, radar systems, and navigational tools. Both aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians regularly inspect aircraft, use specialized tools and diagnostic equipment, and keep detailed records about maintenance and repairs.
These professionals must earn an associate degree from a school approved by FAA. FAA also offers certifications for mechanics and technicians specializing in bodywork and engine work. Also called radiographers, radiologic technologists take x-rays and administer mammograms. MRI technologists perform diagnostic tests using magnetic resonance imaging equipment.
Both radiologic and MRI technologists carry out tests according to orders issued by physicians. They must prepare patients for testing, adhere to safety guidelines and protocols, and provide input on image evaluations.
An associate degree in radiologic and MRI technology prepares students for careers in the field through a combination of coursework and clinical requirements. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists accredits associate degree programs in radiology and certifies practitioners in the field. Respiratory therapists assist patients who have difficulty breathing.
They work with physicians to carry out diagnostic tests, administer treatments, and monitor overall progress. Respiratory therapists may take blood, connect patients to respirators, remove mucus from a patient's lungs, or teach patients to use inhalers and nebulizers.
They may work in hospitals or as home health aides. Respiratory therapists need at least an associate degree in the discipline, which combines coursework in anatomy, health sciences, pharmacology, and mathematics with clinical experience. Licensure requirements for respiratory therapists vary by state, but the National Board of Respiratory Care is the main certifying body for the field.
Occupational therapy assistants and aides work under the direction of occupational therapists. Occupational therapy assistants may perform therapeutic treatments, offer educational and socialization guidance to children with developmental needs, and teach patients to use equipment and devices appropriate to their needs. Occupational therapy aides often tend to administrative tasks, setting up appointments, transporting patients, and overseeing billing and insurance tasks.
Occupational therapy assistants need an associate degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. Occupational therapy aides typically only need a high school diploma. A two-year degree in occupational therapy blends coursework in health sciences, education, and social science with fieldwork requirements. Most states require occupational therapist assistants to hold a license from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy.
Electro-mechanical technicians test, maintain, and operate electromechanical devices and equipment. They perform diagnostics on automated, robotic, and other unmanned equipment used on worksites. They read schematics and verify measurements to ensure proper assembly and production. Electro-mechanical technicians may work in industrial settings, on energy projects, or in oil drilling operations.
They also need strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Electro-mechanical technicians can advance their careers through certifications from the International Society of Automation or the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies. Salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time employees with either two to four years of experience or 10 or more years of experience. Salaries listed include all bonuses, commissions or profit sharing.
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