Do you feel pangs of regret as another group of students prepares to graduate from college in just a few weeks, wishing you were up there onstage receiving your associate's or bachelor's degree as well? With the right career training, it's never too late to transition into an in-demand career. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects the following careers to continue growing much faster than average through 2018, so there's plenty of time to earn a degree and enter a growing industry.
1. Paralegal
Paralegals and legal assistants help attorneys prepare for cases by drafting documents, doing research, and preparing written reports. Because paralegals now perform some of the tasks that were previously reserved for lawyers, the BLS expects employment of paralegals to grow by 28 percent from 2008 to 2018. In 2008, paralegals earned a median income of $46,120.
The most common way to become a paralegal is to earn an associate's degree in paralegal studies through a local college or online degree program. If you already have a bachelor's degree, a certificate in paralegal studies can help you transition into an in-demand legal career.
2. Computer Software Engineer
Computer software engineers use computer science and mathematics to develop software applications and systems. From video games to operating systems, computer software engineers design, create, and test software that responds to users' needs. According to the BLS, computer-applications software engineers earned a median salary of $85,430 in 2008, and their employment is expected to increase by 34 percent from 2008 to 2018.
Most employers prefer to hire software engineers with at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or mathematics. In addition to formal career training, computer software engineers must stay abreast of new technology and trends in the computing world, and many go on to earn a master's degree in computer science.
3. Computer Programmer
After a computer software engineer designs an application, a computer programmer writes the code that makes the program function. Computer programmers use several computing languages to write programs. In 2008, computer programmers earned a median salary of $69,620, according to the BLS.
Most computer programmers hold a bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems, but some employers will accept programmers with an associate's degree in computer science or a related field. Online degree programs in computer science and information systems can help you make the transition into a programming career without leaving your current job.
4. Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst
Network systems and data communications analysts design and evaluate network systems like the Internet, local area networks, and intranets for corporations and other organizations. In 2008, they earned a median income of $71,100, and the BLS expects their employment to grow by 53 percent from 2008 to 2018.
Most network systems and data communications analysts hold a bachelor's degree or an associate's degree in information systems, computer science, or a related field. Online degree programs in computer science and information systems can help you gain the education you need to make the transition.
5. Registered Nurse
Registered nurses work alongside doctors in hospitals, care centers, and doctor's offices, and they play a key role diagnosing and treating patients. The BLS expects employment of nurses to increase by 22 percent from 2008 to 2018. In 2008, registered nurses earned a median salary of $62,450.
Nurses can train by earning a bachelor's degree in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing, or a diploma from an accredited nursing program. Associate's degree programs generally take two to three years to complete, whereas the bachelor's degree takes four years and involves more comprehensive coursework.
6. Accountant
Accountants maintain the financial records of companies, government agencies, and individuals, and their duties often include budget analysis, tax preparation, auditing, and investment planning. Accountants earned a median income of $59,430 in 2008, and the BLS expects their employment to increase by 22 percent from 2008 to 2018.
The first step to becoming an accountant is earning a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Most bachelor's degree programs take four years to complete, and online degree programs in accounting are available. After earning a bachelor's degree, many successful accountants go on to become Certified Public Accountants through a series of tests.
Entering a Growing Field
Whatever your current occupation, career training and online degree programs can help you transition into one of the decade's fastest-growing jobs. Employment opportunities for the above occupations are expected to be excellent through 2018, so you have plenty of time to meet your educational goals--and don that cap and gown.
Source: 2008 mean annual salary figures reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Info , Jobs Sources , Career
Tidak ada komentar:
Posting Komentar