According to CareerOneStop.org and data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov), below is a list of the 25 fastest-growing occupations that require a minimum of a diploma or an associate’s degree. These occupations are growing at 19% or more from 2008 to 2018, versus the national average of 10%.

A diploma can take several months to a year to complete, and an associate’s degree can take up to two years to earn. There are many options for earning an online associate's degree. As with college degrees in general, you will have more opportunities, higher earnings and greater job security so a college diploma or associate’s degree may be well worth your investment in time and tuition.

Associate's Degrees and Diplomas are the fastest way to start a higher paying career. And they can be the first step toward more advanced degrees. 

Skin Care Specialists – growing at 38% and requires a diploma from a cosmetology school

Dental Hygienists – growing at 36% and requires an associate’s degree

Veterinary Techs – growing at 36% and requires an associate’s degree

Physical Therapy Assistants – growing at 33% and requires an associate’s degree

Environmental Engineering Assistants – growing at 30% and requires an associate’s degree

Occupational Therapy Assistants – growing at 30% and requires and associate’s degree

Fitness Trainers – growing at 29% and requires a diploma

Environmental Science and Health Technicians – growing at 29% and requires an associate’s degree

Heating, AC & Refrigeration Mechanics – growing at 28% and requires a diploma

Paralegals and Legal Assistants – growing at 28% and requires an associate’s degree

Medical Equipment Repairers – growing at 27% and requires an associate’s degree

Radiation Therapists = growing at 27% and requires an associate’s degree

Surgical Techs – growing at 25% and requires an associate’s degree

Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers – growing at 25% and requires a diploma

Cardiovascular Techs – growing at 24% and requires an associate’s degree

Registered Nurses (RNs) – growing at 22% and requires an associate’s degree

Respiratory Therapists – growing at 21% and requires an associate’s degree

Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses – growing at 21% and requires a diploma

Medical Records and Health information Techs – growing at 20% and requires an associate’s degree

Hairdressers, Hairstylists and Cosmetologists – growing at 20% and requires a diploma

Interior Designers – growing at 19% and requires an associate’s degree

Gaming Dealers – growing at 19% and requires a diploma

Preschool Teachers (not special ed) – growing at 19% and requires a diploma

Massage Therapists – growing at 19% and requires a diploma

Nursing Aides, Orderlies and Attendants – growing at 19% and requires a diploma