Did you know that the health care industry is experiencing a high demand for skilled professionals? If you’re passionate about entering the medical field but want a faster track than a four-year degree, an associate degree could be the perfect choice for you.
Associate degree programs offer focused, practical training that prepares you for in-demand medical careers with an associate’s degree. At AdventHealth University, we offer various associate degree programs designed to launch your health care career in as little as 20 to 24 months.
The Advantages of an Associate Degree in Health Care
An associate degree offers a time-efficient and cost-effective way to gain the skills needed to begin your career in health care. Both bachelor's and associate degrees often require a full-time commitment, but associate degrees can be completed in two years or less, allowing you to enter the workforce sooner and start earning a competitive salary.
Let’s take a closer look at the different careers you can pursue with an associate degree, including their expected salaries.
Registered Nurse (RN)
Our Associate of Science in Nursing program prepares you to become a registered nurse (RN), an essential team member of any health care team. RNs provide direct patient care, administer medications and educate patients and their families on health-related matters.
RNs assess patient conditions, develop care plans and collaborate with physicians and other health care professionals to deliver care. RNs work in various environments, including hospitals, clinics and home health care. This career offers a high level of job security and excellent growth potential. If you’re looking for a two-year medical degree that pays well, then nursing is a great option.
Learn more about the roles and responsibilities of registered nurses and how to become an RN.
Salary Expectations for Registered Nurses
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a registered nurse in the U.S. is about $94,000.
Health Sciences
Our Associate of Science in Health Sciences program provides a broad foundation in health care principles, opening doors to various roles. Graduates can pursue careers in medical assisting, health care administration and other supportive positions.
For example, medical assistants perform both administrative and clinical tasks in physicians’ offices, hospitals and other health care facilities. They may schedule appointments, take vital signs and perform patient exams.
Health care administrators manage the business aspects of health care organizations, ensuring efficient operations and compliance with regulations. If you’re looking for a medical career with an associate's degree but aren’t sure what you want to do yet, this is a great general program.
Salary Expectations for Health Sciences Professionals
Salaries vary based on the role. For example, according to the BLS, medical assistants had an average annual salary of around $44,000 in 2024.
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Our Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program trains you to use advanced imaging technology to create diagnostic images of internal organs and tissues. Diagnostic medical sonographers, often referred to as sonographers or ultrasound technologists, use ultrasound equipment to produce images that assist physicians in diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions.
Sonographers prepare patients for procedures, operate equipment and analyze images. They work in hospitals, clinics and private practices, playing an essential role in patient care by providing physicians with important medical information. This program is ideal for individuals interested in hands-on medical careers with an associate degree.
Salary Expectations for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
The BLS reports that the median annual income for diagnostic medical sonographers in 2024 was $89,000.
Radiography
Our Associate of Science in Radiography program prepares you to become a radiologic technologist. Radiologic technologists, often referred to as “rad techs” or “X-ray techs,” use X-rays and other imaging equipment to produce images that aid in patient diagnosis and treatment. They position patients for imaging procedures, operate equipment and ensure image quality. They work in hospitals, clinics and imaging centers, playing a vital role in the diagnostic process.
This degree also serves as a crucial first step for those interested in pursuing more advanced and lucrative certifications in specialized fields, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and interventional radiology (IR). Explore our blog on radiography careers to discover other potential paths this field has to offer.
Salary Expectations for Radiologic Technologists
According to the BLS, the average annual income for radiologic technologists was about $79,000 in 2024.
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Our Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program prepares you to assist patients in regaining or developing the necessary skills for daily living. Occupational therapy assistants work under the supervision of occupational therapists to provide therapeutic interventions and support for patients.
Occupational therapy assistants help patients with daily living activities, like dressing, bathing and eating. They also help patients improve their motor skills and cognitive abilities. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and home health care settings.
Salary Expectations for Occupational Therapy Assistants
The BLS reports that the average annual income for occupational therapy assistants was about $66,000 in 2024.
Your Path to a Career in Health Care Starts Here
Take the first step toward a rewarding medical career by exploring AdventHealth University’s associate degree programs today. With over 80% of AHU graduates being hired within the AdventHealth system after graduation, you could invest as little as 20 months to lay the foundation for a promising career. If you would like more information about specific programs, please contact us, and a member of our team will be happy to assist and guide you through the process.
