The median hourly wage in May of 2012 for all medical assistants -- including morgue attendants -- was $14.12, while the median annual wage was $29,370, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. On average, pay is greater for morgue attendants than others with no college education. Wages can reach $33,000 per year for those with only a high school degree, while those with an associate degree earn more. Jobs as medical assistants are expected to increase 31 percent between 2010 an 2020. In addition, many of the skills acquired are transferable to other medical fields.