Associate degree jobs that pay well

It's a sweet deal for workers who can collect medical diagnostic images like MRI scans, X-rays and mammograms. A two-year degree along with a passing score on your state's radiologic licensing exam generally means a median salary of $52,210, full benefits, the ability to work in medical settings ranging from hospitals to private practices and sometimes a flexible schedule, too.

The BLS reports that the radiologic technician field is one of the fastest-growing occupations, expected to expand by 17 percent between 2008 and 2018. Though workers are on their feet for most of the day and are required to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years -- don't worry, it's usually paid for by the employer -- technicians can be rest assured that their salaries will cover a foot massage every now and then.