& Universities
Two-year degrees are becoming increasingly popular among students who want to enter the workforce quickly and affordably. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, enrollment in two-year degree programs has increased steadily over the past decade, with over 7+ million students enrolled annually in these programs since 2020. This trend is expected to continue as more students seek alternatives to traditional four-year degrees.
One of the main benefits of earning a two-year degree is the lower cost compared to a four-year degree. According to CollegeBoard, the average cost of tuition and fees for a two-year degree program at a public community college is about $3,500 per year, while the average cost for a four-year degree at a public university is about $10,000 per year. Additionally, students who earn a two-year degree can enter the workforce faster, which means they can start earning a salary and gaining valuable work experience sooner.
There are many different types of two-year degree programs available, ranging from business and healthcare to technology and education. In this article, we will explore the 25 best two-year degree programs based on factors such as job prospects, earning potential, and overall value. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a working professional looking to switch careers, a two-year degree can be a great option for advancing your education and career goals.
Healthcare Degrees
Healthcare is a rapidly growing field, and there are many two-year degrees available for those who want to start their healthcare career quickly. Here are the top five healthcare degrees that can be earned in two years:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Radiologic Technologist
- Dental Hygienist
- Medical Laboratory Technician
- Physical Therapist Assistant
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for healthcare professionals is excellent, with many positions projected to grow faster than the national average. Here’s a breakdown of the job outlook and potential salaries for each degree:
| Degree | Job Outlook | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) | 12% growth from 2020-2030 | $75,330 per year |
| Radiologic Technologist | 9% growth from 2020-2030 | $63,120 per year |
| Dental Hygienist | 8% growth from 2020-2030 | $76,220 per year |
| Medical Laboratory Technician | 7% growth from 2020-2030 | $54,180 per year |
| Physical Therapist Assistant | 33% growth from 2020-2030 | $59,770 per year |
As you can see, all of these healthcare degrees have a positive job outlook and offer competitive salaries. Pursuing a two-year degree in healthcare can be a great way to start your career in this rewarding field.
Business Degrees
Business degrees are some of the most popular two-year degrees available. They offer a wide range of career opportunities and provide students with a solid foundation in business concepts. Here are the top five business degrees that can be earned in two years:
| Degree | Job Outlook | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Accounting | 6% job growth (BLS) | $71,550 per year (BLS) |
| Business Administration | 5% job growth (BLS) | $69,820 per year (BLS) |
| Human Resources | 6% job growth (BLS) | $61,920 per year (BLS) |
| Marketing | 8% job growth (BLS) | $135,900 per year (BLS) |
| Hospitality Management | 6% job growth (BLS) | $54,430 per year (BLS) |
Accounting degrees provide students with a strong understanding of financial accounting, managerial accounting, and taxation. Graduates can work as bookkeepers, accounting clerks, or tax preparers. Business administration degrees are more general and cover topics such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Graduates can work in a variety of fields, including finance, marketing, and human resources.
Human resources degrees focus on the management of employees within an organization. Graduates can work as human resources assistants, recruiters, or managers. Marketing degrees provide students with a strong understanding of marketing principles, including market research, advertising, and sales. Graduates can work in a variety of fields, including advertising, public relations, and marketing research.
Hospitality management degrees prepare students for careers in the hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, and event planning. Graduates can work as hotel managers, event planners, or food service managers.
Section 3: Technology Degrees
Technology is a rapidly growing field, and earning a two-year degree in a technology-related field can provide graduates with a wealth of job opportunities. Here are the top five technology degrees that can be earned in two years:
| Degree | Job Outlook | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | The job outlook for computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 11 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. (BLS) | The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $91,250 in May 2020. (BLS) |
| Information Technology (IT) | The job outlook for computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 11 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. (BLS) | The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $91,250 in May 2020. (BLS) |
| Cybersecurity | The job outlook for information security analysts is projected to grow 31 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. (BLS) | The median annual wage for information security analysts was $103,590 in May 2020. (BLS) |
| Web Design/Development | The job outlook for web developers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. (BLS) | The median annual wage for web developers was $77,200 in May 2020. (BLS) |
| Network Administration | The job outlook for network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. (BLS) | The median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators was $84,810 in May 2020. (BLS) |
With the increasing demand for technology professionals, these degrees can lead to a variety of high-paying careers. Graduates with a degree in computer science can become software developers, while those with a degree in cybersecurity can become information security analysts. Web developers and network administrators are also in high demand, with many opportunities for growth and advancement.
Overall, earning a two-year degree in a technology-related field can provide graduates with a promising career path with competitive salaries and job security.
Creative Arts Degrees
For those who are interested in pursuing a career in the creative arts, there are several two-year degree options available. Here are the top five creative arts degrees that can be earned in two years:
- Graphic Design: A degree in graphic design prepares students to create visual concepts that communicate ideas to inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for graphic designers was $56,510 in May 2021, and the job outlook is expected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030.
- Film/Video Production: This degree program teaches students the skills needed to produce films and videos, including screenwriting, directing, and editing. The BLS reports that the median annual wage for film and video editors was $63,780 in May 2021, and the job outlook is expected to grow 18% from 2020 to 2030.
- Interior Design: Interior design degrees teach students how to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for interior designers was $57,060 in May 2021, and the job outlook is expected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030.
- Fashion Design: This degree program teaches students the skills needed to design clothing and accessories. The BLS reports that the median annual wage for fashion designers was $75,810 in May 2021, and the job outlook is expected to decline 4% from 2020 to 2030.
- Photography: A degree in photography teaches students how to take and edit photographs. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for photographers was $36,280 in May 2021, and the job outlook is expected to decline 4% from 2020 to 2030.
Overall, while the job outlook varies for each creative arts degree, there are many opportunities for graduates to find work in their field. It is important to research specific job markets and potential salaries before choosing a degree program.
Education Degrees
For those who are interested in pursuing a career in education, there are several two-year degree options available. These degrees can provide a solid foundation for future educators and help them gain the necessary skills and knowledge to work in a variety of educational settings. Here are the top five education degrees that can be earned in two years:
| Degree | Job Outlook | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education | 5% growth (as fast as average) | $30,520 per year |
| Special Education | 3% growth (slower than average) | $61,030 per year |
| Elementary Education | 3% growth (slower than average) | $60,660 per year |
| Secondary Education | 4% growth (as fast as average) | $62,870 per year |
| Physical Education | 5% growth (as fast as average) | $45,510 per year |
Early Childhood Education degree programs prepare students to work with young children from birth to age eight. Graduates may find employment in daycare centers, preschools, and other early childhood education settings. Special Education degree programs prepare students to work with children who have disabilities. Graduates may find employment in public or private schools, rehabilitation centers, or other educational settings.
Elementary Education degree programs prepare students to teach in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms. Graduates may find employment in public or private schools, tutoring centers, or other educational settings. Secondary Education degree programs prepare students to teach in middle and high school classrooms. Graduates may find employment in public or private schools, tutoring centers, or other educational settings.
Physical Education degree programs prepare students to teach physical education classes in schools or to work as coaches or personal trainers. Graduates may find employment in public or private schools, fitness centers, or other athletic facilities.
Conclusion
Overall, earning a two-year degree can be a great option for those looking to enter the workforce quickly and at a lower cost than a four-year degree. With a variety of fields to choose from, students can pursue their interests and career goals while gaining valuable skills and knowledge.
While some may view a two-year degree as less valuable than a four-year degree, the reality is that many two-year degree holders can earn competitive salaries and have opportunities for advancement in their careers.
For those interested in business, a two-year degree in business administration or accounting can provide a strong foundation for a variety of roles in finance, marketing, and management. Those interested in healthcare may consider pursuing a two-year degree in nursing, medical assisting, or radiologic technology, which can lead to rewarding careers in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
STEM fields also offer a variety of two-year degree options, including computer science, engineering technology, and environmental science. These degrees can provide a pathway to careers in technology, manufacturing, and environmental management, among others.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue a two-year degree should be based on individual interests, career goals, and financial considerations. With the right degree and skills, two-year degree holders can find success and fulfillment in a variety of industries.
