5 “Sure-Thing” Career Fields
As you pursue a career for the first time or transition into a new job, you don’t want to jump into a career where opportunities are limited. Instead, look at these hot programs in industries where the demand for trained professionals will be high for years to come.
Computer schools: Stay on top of the latest technology by enrolling in computer schools and learning the skills needed to land a position as a computer scientist, database administrator, or other computer-related roles. Job growth is expected to be much faster than the average for other occupations, with a 37 percent increase from 2006 to 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Companies are expected to be adding jobs as they and their clients update their technology and meet the demands of an increasingly tech-savvy customer base. Some employers will require a two-year degree, but many of them seek a bachelor’s degree, according to the bureau.
Culinary schools:
TV shows and movies, from “Top Chef” to “Iron Chef America” to “Julie and Julia,” all indicate that the kitchen is a hot place to be. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11 percent job growth by 2016 for chefs, cooks and food preparation workers. It points to factors such as population growth and people seeking convenience, whether on a budget and picking up a meal on the run, or wanting healthy dishes without slaving over them. While on-the-job training will suffice for some jobs in the culinary industry, those seeking advanced positions will need to complete academic training programs offering certificates and two- or four-year degrees at a culinary school, according to the BLS.
Dental tech schools:
Take a bite out of your new career with the education offered by dental tech schools. A 30 percent hike in dental hygienist jobs and a 29 percent in dental assistants is expected through 2016, a faster rate than the average for other occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s due to the aging population and the trend toward preventative care among younger generations. The addition of assistants is due to the changing nature of practices, the bureau says, with more of them needed as new graduates take over practices from retired workers and as workloads increase. For dental hygienists, you’ll need to earn a degree from an accredited dental hygiene school, and pass a licensing exam to practice. While those working as dental assistants can get on-the-job training, they may benefit more by enrolling in programs offered by technical institutes, community and junior colleges, and trade schools, according to the bureau.
Art schools:
Creativity still shines, even in depressed job markets. But although job growth for artists and other workers in the field is expected to be 16 percent by 2016, the best will get prime positions, as competition will remain strong in this field, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s where the training provided by art schools can give you an edge in the market. As you learn to hone your skills, you’ll be able to employ technology working as illustrators, multimedia artists and animators, and succeed in a full-time salaried role or as a freelance professional. The bureau says a bachelor’s degree is typically needed for those working in roles such as multimedia artists, medical illustrators and art directors, although those working in the craft and fine arts areas may not need to have had formal schooling.
Photography schools:
Smile as you pursue this field, which is expected to experience 10 percent job growth by 2016, about as fast as the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS identifies jobs in demand as portrait photographers, but does note that as more magazines, newspapers and Web sites accept images from untrained photographers, that could make it more difficult for trained photojournalists to find jobs. In addition to having an eye for a strong shot, most employers seek a college degree when hiring photojournalists or photographers in an industrial or scientific role; portrait photographers don’t necessarily need to show a degree but completion of a training program or a certain amount of experience.
Also check out our post on: Recession Proof Jobs.
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