Not every healthcare career requires a four-year degree. In fact, many essential roles in the medical field start with a focused, affordable associate degree. These programs can be completed in about two years — sometimes less — and lead straight to meaningful, well-paying jobs that make a difference.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to change paths, here are 10 of the most popular associate degrees in healthcare and what you can do with them.

1. Nursing (ASN)

• What You’ll Learn: Core nursing skills, patient care, medical ethics, and clinical procedures.
• Possible Careers: Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Nurse Assistant.

2. Radiologic Technology (AAS)

• What You’ll Learn: How to operate imaging equipment like X-rays and MRIs, patient positioning, safety protocols.
• Possible Careers: Radiologic Technologist, MRI Tech, X-ray Technician.

3. Medical Laboratory Technology (AAS)

• What You’ll Learn: Diagnostic lab testing, equipment handling, and specimen analysis.
• Possible Careers: Medical Lab Technician, Clinical Lab Technologist.

4. Respiratory Therapy (AS)

• What You’ll Learn: Respiratory assessments, ventilator management, emergency care.
• Possible Careers: Respiratory Therapist, Pulmonary Technician.

5. Occupational Therapy Assistant (AAS)

• What You’ll Learn: How to assist patients in recovering daily skills and mobility after illness or injury.
• Possible Careers: Occupational Therapy Assistant, Rehab Aide.

6. Physical Therapy Assistant (AAS)

• What You’ll Learn: Support for physical therapists in patient rehabilitation, exercise regimens, and mobility training.
• Possible Careers: Physical Therapy Assistant, Rehabilitation Assistant.

7. Health Information Management (AAS)

• What You’ll Learn: Medical data systems, patient privacy, and electronic health records.
• Possible Careers: Health Info Technician, Medical Records Manager.

8. Dental Hygiene (AAS)

• What You’ll Learn: Preventive dental care, patient education, and hygiene procedures.
• Possible Careers: Dental Hygienist, Dental Assistant.

9. Surgical Technology (AAS)

• What You’ll Learn: Surgical prep, sterilization techniques, and how to assist surgeons in the operating room.
• Possible Careers: Surgical Technologist, OR Tech.

10. Medical Assisting (AAS)

• What You’ll Learn: Clinical skills, basic medical procedures, administrative tasks, and patient communication.
• Possible Careers: Medical Assistant, Clinic Coordinator, Medical Office Admin.

Find the Right Program for You

These associate degrees offer practical, respected entry points into the healthcare field — whether you’re looking for direct patient care, diagnostics, rehab, or data management.

Explore available programs and start moving toward a career that matters — one that aligns with your strengths and gets you into the workforce faster.