Two-year medical degrees with high pay?

I recently started looking into medical fields which offer two-year degrees and have good salaries, to maybe help finance my future four-year education. Does anyone have any suggestions for promising medical careers that require only a two-year degree but still pay well?

You're on the right track by exploring two-year medical degree options that can lead to well-paying careers while potentially helping you fund your future education. Below are some promising medical careers that require an associate degree and typically offer competitive salaries:

1. Dental Hygienist: Dental hygienists work directly with patients to maintain their oral health by providing cleanings, conducting dental screenings, and educating patients on oral care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for dental hygienists was $77,090 in May 2020.

2. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: Diagnostic medical sonographers utilize ultrasound technology to produce images for physicians to examine and diagnose patients. These professionals can specialize in various areas such as obstetrics, cardiovascular, or musculoskeletal imaging. The BLS reports a median annual wage of $75,920 for diagnostic medical sonographers in May 2020.

3. Radiologic Technologist: Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging examinations on patients, operating equipment such as X-ray machines, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners. The BLS states that the median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $62,280 in May 2020.

4. Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists work with patients experiencing breathing difficulties, providing treatments and interventions to manage respiratory conditions such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The BLS indicates that the median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $62,810 in May 2020.

5. Occupational Therapy Assistant: Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) work under the supervision of occupational therapists, helping patients regain and develop life skills after illness, injury, or disability. They lead therapeutic activities and aid in evaluating patients' progress. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for OTAs was $62,940 in May 2020.

Remember that salaries for these professions can vary based on factors like geographical location, years of experience, and the specific healthcare setting in which you work. Also, keep in mind that many employers may require or prefer candidates with certifications or licenses in addition to an associate degree, so research your desired career path thoroughly to ensure you meet all the qualifications.