An Associate of Arts degree can open doors to numerous career paths without the time and cost of a bachelor’s degree. This two-year program from community colleges provides essential skills that employers value.
Jobs with an Associate of Arts Degree
1) Graphic Designer
Graphic designers create visual concepts for advertisements, websites, and publications. They use computer software to develop layouts and images that communicate ideas to consumers.
- Job duties: Creating logos, selecting colors and fonts, designing layouts
- Typical salary: $45,000-$55,000 annually
- Typical day: Meeting with clients, sketching concepts, working on computer designs
2) Museum Technician
Museum technicians help prepare, install, and maintain exhibits in museums and galleries.
- Job duties: Handling artifacts, arranging displays, helping with preservation
- Typical salary: $35,000-$45,000 annually
- Typical day: Setting up exhibits, documenting collections, assisting visitors
3) Photography Assistant
Photography assistants support professional photographers with equipment setup and basic editing.
- Job duties: Managing equipment, helping with lighting, organizing digital files
- Typical salary: $30,000-$40,000 annually
- Typical day: Setting up photo shoots, managing schedules, basic photo editing
4) Early Childhood Education and Teaching Assistants
Teaching assistants work under licensed teachers to provide additional support in classrooms. Their duties include:
- Reinforcing lessons by helping students one-on-one
- Preparing educational materials and setting up activities
- Supervising students during non-classroom time
- Managing behavioral issues and reporting to lead teachers
The average salary for teaching assistants ranges from $25,000 to $32,000 annually. A typical day starts with morning preparation, followed by assisting with lessons, supervising lunch or recess, and ending with cleanup and planning.
To become a teaching assistant, you need an Associate of Arts degree, often in education or child development. Many states require passing a background check and completing specific certifications such as CPR and first aid training.
5) Occupational Therapy Assistant Careers
Occupational therapy assistants help patients develop, recover, and improve skills needed for daily living and working. They work under occupational therapists to implement treatment plans.
Job duties include:
• Helping patients with therapeutic activities
• Teaching patients how to use special equipment
• Recording patient progress
• Setting up therapy equipment
The typical salary ranges from $55,000 to $65,000 annually. Most states require an associate degree from an accredited program and passing a national certification exam.
A typical day might involve assisting several patients with different needs, documenting progress, and consulting with the supervising therapist. Most assistants work in hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient clinics.
Training typically takes 2 years plus fieldwork experience. The job outlook remains strong with projected growth of 32% through 2029.
6) Physical Therapy Assistant Positions
Physical therapy assistants work under the direction of physical therapists to help patients regain movement and manage pain after injuries or illnesses.
Their responsibilities include:
• Assisting patients with exercises
• Using massage and stretching techniques
• Operating physical therapy equipment
• Educating patients about at-home care
PTAs typically earn between $48,000 and $60,000 per year. The position requires an associate degree from an accredited program and state licensure.
A day in the life might involve treating 10-15 patients, adjusting treatment plans based on progress, and communicating findings to the supervising therapist.
7) Roles in Psychology and Therapeutic Support
With an AA degree, graduates can work as psychiatric technicians, human services assistants, or addiction counselors in training.
Common responsibilities include:
• Observing patient behavior and reporting changes
• Assisting with daily activities for clients
• Leading group activities
• Providing emotional support
These positions typically pay between $35,000 and $45,000 annually. Some roles may require additional certifications depending on state regulations.
A typical workday might involve monitoring clients, documenting behaviors, facilitating group discussions, and coordinating with treatment teams. Many work in mental health facilities, residential treatment centers, or community agencies.
Career advancement often requires additional education. However, these entry-level positions provide valuable experience for those considering further studies in psychology or counseling fields.
8) Humanities and Social Services Positions
Social Science Research Assistants work with experienced researchers to gather and analyze data.
They earn about $46,000 annually and typically need strong analytical skills.
Human Services Assistants help social workers and other professionals provide client services. Their daily tasks include:
- Interviewing clients about their needs
- Maintaining case files and records
- Connecting people with community resources
The position pays approximately $35,000-$40,000 yearly. You might want to gain experience through internships while completing your AA degree.
Case Management Aides support case managers by monitoring client progress and updating records.
Their typical day involves client check-ins and coordinating with service providers. The average salary ranges from $32,000-$38,000.
9) Jobs in Community-Based Support
Community Outreach Workers build connections between organizations and the people they serve. Their responsibilities involve:
- Organizing community events and workshops
- Distributing informational materials
- Identifying community needs
These professionals earn about $38,000-$43,000 annually. Most positions require strong communication skills and cultural sensitivity.
Youth Services Specialists work with children and teens in after-school programs, community centers, or residential facilities.
Daily activities include supervising recreational activities and providing mentorship. The average salary is approximately $36,000.
Substance Abuse Counselor Assistants support licensed counselors in treatment facilities. You can qualify with an AA degree plus additional certification in some states.
The typical salary ranges from $34,000-$42,000, with growth opportunities through further education.
10) Working in Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary technicians work alongside veterinarians to provide care for animals. They handle many important tasks in animal clinics and hospitals.
A veterinary technician’s duties include:
- Collecting blood, urine, and tissue samples
- Preparing animals for surgery and assisting during procedures
- Taking X-rays and performing lab tests
- Administering medications prescribed by the veterinarian
- Educating pet owners about animal care
The typical salary for vet techs ranges from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on location and experience.
A typical day might involve checking in patients, monitoring animals recovering from surgery, and assisting with exams. Vet techs often multitask between caring for animals and communicating with worried pet owners.
To become a veterinary technician, you need an Associate degree in veterinary technology. Most programs take two years to complete. Many states also require passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination for certification.
11) Administrative Assistant and Office Support Careers
Administrative assistants maintain office operations by organizing files, scheduling appointments, and managing communications. Their daily responsibilities typically include answering phones, drafting correspondence, and coordinating meetings.
A typical day might involve:
- Preparing documents and reports
- Managing calendars for executives
- Handling incoming mail and messages
- Organizing office supplies
The average salary ranges from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, with senior positions earning more. Some administrative assistants specialize in legal, medical, or executive support, which can increase earning potential.
Becoming an administrative assistant requires strong organizational skills and proficiency with office software. Many employers value certifications such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) designation, which can be obtained after gaining some work experience.
12) Opportunities in Business Administration
Business administration roles with an Associate of Arts degree include office manager, customer service supervisor, and sales coordinator positions. These jobs focus on operational efficiency and team management.
Office managers oversee daily operations and might earn $40,000-$55,000 annually. Their responsibilities include:
- Supervising administrative staff
- Managing office budgets
- Implementing office policies
- Coordinating with vendors and service providers
Sales coordinators typically make $38,000-$48,000 per year. They spend their days tracking sales data, supporting sales representatives, and maintaining customer records.
You can enter these fields directly with an Associate of Arts degree, though some positions might require additional business courses. Professional development opportunities often include project management or leadership training programs lasting 1-3 months.
Many professionals start in entry-level positions and advance through experience and demonstrated leadership abilities.