Some of the best Associate of Science (AS) careers include dental hygienist, web developer, registered nurse, respiratory therapist, and air traffic controller. These roles often have strong earning potential and can provide a direct path to employment or serve as a foundation for a bachelor's degree.

An associate's degree in science actually opens up a wide range of employment choices, despite the common misconception that it restricts one to a medical or healthcare-related field. In this article, we will explore some of the most common Associate of Science careers and their average earnings in the United States.

A List of the Most Common Associate of Science Careers

Take a look at the most common Associate of Science careers and their average earnings in the United States.

1. Nursing Assistant

Because they help patients with everyday tasks and provide vital care, nursing assistants are vital to the healthcare system. They keep track of and document patient vitals, help with eating and drinking, dressing, bathing, showering, and dental care, as well as helping with toileting and catheter care and making and changing beds. Excellent interpersonal skills and a high degree of sensitivity and compassion are necessary for this position. In the United States, nursing assistants typically make $13.75 per hour.

To become a nursing assistant, you usually need to finish a six- to 12-week training program and earn your certification. People with this accreditation are frequently hired for nursing assistant positions by organizations including Medilodge, HCR ManorCare, and VA Hospital.

2. Phlebotomist

Phlebotomists are responsible for drawing blood from patients, labeling vials, storing samples, and sending them to the appropriate destinations for testing. They must adhere to strict protocols for sterilizing and organizing equipment, following patient order forms, and safely disposing of needles and other biohazardous materials. Patient comfort and communication skills are essential for phlebotomists, as some patients may be uncomfortable or anxious during blood draws. On average, phlebotomists earn $14.89 per hour in the US.

Becoming a phlebotomist typically involves completing a phlebotomy training program and obtaining certification in some states. Employers like LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics, and the American Red Cross often hire certified phlebotomists for their healthcare facilities.

3. Medical Scribe/Transcriptionist

Medical scribes and transcriptionists are responsible for transcribing physician, clinician, and healthcare provider voice recordings into written reports. They may work in a variety of settings, including doctor's offices, hospitals, transcription companies, or as freelance professionals. While advancements in transcription technology may impact the demand for this role in the future, for now, medical scribes are still needed due to the complexity of medical terminology and dictation that cannot be accurately transcribed by machines. On average, medical scribes earn $14.02 per hour in the US.

Individuals interested in pursuing a career as a medical scribe or transcriptionist may benefit from having a medical background and completing relevant healthcare courses to gain knowledge of medical diseases, terminologies, and anatomy. Employers like Etheredge Chiropractic, Renalus Kidney Care, and LDMTS often have openings for medical scribe roles.

4. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are first responders who provide pre-hospital emergency medical care to individuals experiencing medical emergencies. They respond to 911 calls and other emergencies, assess patient vital signs and health status, and determine the appropriate course of action for transportation to a medical facility. EMTs must have strong people skills, empathy, and a passion for helping others in times of crisis. On average, EMTs earn $15.16 per hour in the US.

Employers such as Medcor, United Ambulance, and City Ambulance Service often hire EMTs to work in emergency medical services and allied healthcare settings.

5. Administrative Assistant

Administrative assistants play a vital role in the smooth operation of businesses and offices by performing a variety of administrative tasks, such as answering phones, scheduling appointments, ordering supplies, writing emails, and filing paperwork. Those with an Associate of Science degree may have the opportunity to work in a healthcare setting, where they can schedule appointments, manage office staff, and assist with patient care coordination. Administrative assistants must be proficient in multitasking, communication, and adaptability to thrive in fast-paced environments. On average, administrative assistants earn $15.47 per hour in the US.

Companies such as the US Department of Defense, Mount Sinai Health System, and UPS often have openings for administrative assistant roles in their healthcare facilities and offices.

6. Medical Assistant

Medical assistants work closely with doctors and healthcare providers in clinical settings, performing a variety of tasks such as collecting and testing patient samples, recording health histories, and assisting with routine check-ups. They also play a key role in patient care by managing health and prescription histories, filling out billing paperwork, and providing other administrative support. Medical assistants must possess strong interpersonal skills, organizational abilities, and attention to detail to excel in their roles. On average, medical assistants earn $15.10 per hour in the US.

To become a medical assistant, individuals must complete a certified training program and obtain registration in their state. Employers such as Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, and Dignity Health often hire medical assistants to work in their healthcare facilities.

7. Medical Biller

Medical billers play a crucial role in healthcare revenue management by processing insurance claims, coding medical procedures, applying patient balances, and communicating with insurance companies to track payments and confirm coverage. They must be detail-oriented and organized to prevent errors in billing and ensure accurate invoicing. On average, medical billers earn $16.03 per hour in the US.

Some employers prefer candidates with RHIT or CPB credentials for medical billing positions. Organizations like UnitedHealth, Planned Parenthood, and Texas Children's Hospital often hire medical billers to work in their healthcare facilities and billing departments.

8. Lab Assistant

Laboratory assistants support scientific research and testing by receiving and analyzing samples, preparing laboratory equipment, testing and analyzing samples, and maintaining accurate lab records. This role requires precision, organization, and attention to detail to ensure the reliable and consistent results of laboratory tests. On average, lab assistants earn $17.21 per hour in the US.

While formal certification is not always required, individuals interested in becoming lab assistants may benefit from obtaining a CMLA or Laboratory Technology Certificate to enhance their credentials. Employers such as PeaceHealth, Salem Health, and UT San Antonio often have openings for lab assistant positions in their research and healthcare facilities.

9. Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in providing prescription medications to patients, maintaining inventory, supervising junior staff, answering patient inquiries, and processing insurance claims. They must have strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. On average, pharmacy technicians earn $16.21 per hour in the US.

Pharmacy technicians must be CPT-certified in many states to work in a pharmacy setting. Employers such as Costco Wholesale, Magellan Health Services, and Aetna often hire pharmacy technicians to work in their retail and clinical pharmacy settings.

10. Engineering Technician

Engineering technicians play a vital role in assisting engineers with technological issues, conducting experiments, collecting data, and ensuring quality control in various engineering projects. While many may not associate this role with an Associate of Science degree, individuals with strong analytical skills, a love of numbers, and a solid math background can excel in this field. On average, engineering technicians earn an annual salary of $56,937 in the US.

Employers hiring engineering technicians often prefer candidates with associate's or bachelor's degrees in engineering or related fields. Professional certifications and advanced degrees, such as a master's degree, can help engineering technicians advance in their careers. Some specialized fields, like aerospace engineering, may require additional training and credentials for employment.

To sum up, an Associate of Science degree provides access to a variety of job options in a number of sectors, such as engineering, healthcare, and administrative assistance. With the correct training and abilities, people with an associate's degree can pursue successful and enjoyable jobs, even though the average salaries for these occupations vary. An Associate of Science degree can lead to a variety of job paths, including engineering, laboratory work, administrative assistance, and patient care.