20 Surprising Careers for Associates of Applied Science Graduates

With the increasing demand for skilled professionals in science and technology fields, an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree offers an accessible pathway to a fulfilling career. Unlike traditional four-year bachelor's degrees, AAS programs focus on providing hands-on training and technical skills, making graduates highly sought-after by employers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for AAS holders are projected to grow 17% by 2030, significantly higher than the average growth rate for all occupations. Here are 20 promising career options for AAS graduates:

1. Dental Hygienist

Median Annual Salary: $77,000

Job Outlook: 11% growth by 2030

Duties: Perform dental cleanings, administer fluoride treatments, and provide oral hygiene education to patients.

2. Medical Assistant

Median Annual Salary: $32,000

Job Outlook: 19% growth by 2030

Duties: Assist physicians and nurses with patient care, administrative tasks, and medical procedures.

3. Veterinary Technician

Median Annual Salary: $35,000

Job Outlook: 14% growth by 2030

Duties: Assist veterinarians with animal care, perform diagnostic tests, and dispense medications.

4. Surgical Technologist

Median Annual Salary: $51,000

Job Outlook: 9% growth by 2030

Duties: Prepare patients for surgery, assist surgeons during procedures, and maintain sterile environments.

5. Radiation Therapist

Median Annual Salary: $84,000

Job Outlook: 11% growth by 2030

Duties: Use radiation therapy to treat cancer patients, monitor their progress, and provide patient support.

6. Physical Therapist Assistant

Median Annual Salary: $56,000

Job Outlook: 25% growth by 2030

Duties: Assist physical therapists in providing rehabilitative care to patients with physical limitations.

7. Dental Assistant

Median Annual Salary: $41,000

Job Outlook: 11% growth by 2030

Duties: Perform dental procedures under the supervision of a dentist, such as taking X-rays, assisting with fillings, and providing patient care.

8. Network Administrator

Median Annual Salary: $84,000

Job Outlook: 5% growth by 2030

Duties: Manage and maintain computer networks, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure network security.

9. Database Administrator

Median Annual Salary: $91,000

Job Outlook: 10% growth by 2030

Duties: Design, manage, and maintain databases, ensuring data integrity and security.

10. Web Developer

Median Annual Salary: $77,000

Job Outlook: 15% growth by 2030

Duties: Design, develop, and maintain websites, ensuring functionality, responsiveness, and user experience.

11. Computer Programmer

Median Annual Salary: $89,000

Job Outlook: 12% growth by 2030

Duties: Write, test, and maintain computer programs, developing software solutions for various industries.

12. Software Quality Assurance Tester

Median Annual Salary: $114,000

Job Outlook: 22% growth by 2030

Duties: Test software applications, identify defects, and ensure software quality and reliability.

13. Information Security Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $103,000

Job Outlook: 35% growth by 2030

Duties: Protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats, monitor security breaches, and respond to incidents.

14. Electrical Technician

Median Annual Salary: $56,000

Job Outlook: 10% growth by 2030

Duties: Install, maintain, and repair electrical equipment, such as lighting, wiring, and control systems.

15. Electrician

Median Annual Salary: $56,000

Job Outlook: 9% growth by 2030

Duties: Install, repair, and maintain electrical wiring, fixtures, and equipment in homes, businesses, and industrial settings.

16. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician

Median Annual Salary: $50,000

Job Outlook: 13% growth by 2030

Duties: Install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.

17. Plumber

Median Annual Salary: $56,000

Job Outlook: 11% growth by 2030

Duties: Install, repair, and maintain water supply, drainage, and other plumbing systems in homes and businesses.

18. Machinist

Median Annual Salary: $46,000

Job Outlook: 4% growth by 2030

Duties: Operate machines to create precision parts for manufacturing, construction, and other industries.

19. Welder

Median Annual Salary: $41,000

Job Outlook: 4% growth by 2030

Duties: Use welding techniques to join metal parts together, creating structures and products used in various industries.

20. Carpenter

Median Annual Salary: $48,000

Job Outlook: 7% growth by 2030

Duties: Build, remodel, and repair residential and commercial buildings using wood and other materials.

New Applications for AAS Graduates

The world of science and technology is constantly evolving, creating new opportunities for AAS graduates. To stay ahead of the curve, AAS programs are embracing the concept of "applicationeering" – the process of identifying new applications for existing technologies. Here are a few examples:

• Using AI in healthcare: Developing AI-powered diagnostics and treatment tools to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
• Integrating blockchain into supply chains: Using blockchain technology to track and trace goods, reduce fraud, and increase supply chain efficiency.
• Creating smart cities: Designing and implementing IoT-enabled technologies to enhance urban living and improve resource management.
• Developing renewable energy systems: Designing and installing renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.

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FAQs

1. What are the benefits of earning an Associate of Applied Science degree?
   - AAS degrees provide specialized training and hands-on skills, making graduates highly employable.
   - AAS programs are typically shorter and more affordable than traditional four-year degrees.
   - AAS graduates are in high demand in growing industries, such as healthcare, technology, and trade.

2. Which AAS programs offer the best job opportunities?
   - Healthcare-related AAS programs, such as dental hygiene, medical assisting, and nursing, offer stable and well-paying career paths.
   - Technology-related AAS programs, such as computer science, information technology, and database administration, prepare graduates for high-growth and lucrative careers.
   - Trade AAS programs, such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, provide a solid foundation for in-