Degrees Employers Hate and Love

Wondering which college degrees employers are looking for - and which don't stand out as much? Keep reading to learn more.

By Terence Loose

Are you considering returning to school and want to earn a degree that's attractive to future employers?
Now is a good time to be practical about what you study, says Susan Heathfield, About.com's Human Resources Guide.
"With the unemployment situation the way it is right now, I would be considering what degree to get more closely than any other time in history," says Heathfield. "If you want to be employable in this economy and the future, you have to have valuable skills."
With that in mind, we asked Heathfield what degrees employers might love - and which could make them frown.
We also consulted Anthony Carnevale, director of the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, and his department's 2012 study called "Hard Times: College Majors, Unemployment and Earnings." With the subheadline "Not All College Degrees Are Created Equal," this report studied the unemployment rates for recent (aged 22 to 26) and experienced (aged 30 to 54) college graduates in various majors.
Using the U.S. Department of Labor's most recent U.S. unemployment rate of 8.1 percent (April 2012), we considered unemployment rates above 8.1 percent as bad, and rates below 8.1 percent as good.
Keep that in mind as you learn more about college majors employers love and hate.

Loved Degree #1: Bachelor's in Health Care Administration

Do you have a passion for health care but want to pursue more of a leadership role? Consider earning a degree in health care administration.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor's 2010-2020 projections, 28 percent of all new jobs in the U.S. economy will be in the health care and social assistance industry.
So it's no wonder that the "Hard Times" report found a 2.9 percent unemployment rate for experienced health and medical administrative services grads.
"The cost of health care is now 18 percent of GDP (gross domestic product), our total economic activity," says Carnevale. "It's the biggest industry we have." And because management of that industry is such a large part of it, this is an attractive degree to employers, according to Carnevale.
Click to Find the Right Health Care Administration Program.
Health services administration programs could include courses from accounting and health care law to health care ethics and epidemiology, according to the College Board, an organization of colleges and universities that administers tests such as the SAT.

Hated Degree #1: Bachelor's in Architecture

Okay, so architecture might not be such a hated degree; it's just that there aren't many employers around to love it, says Carnevale.
Basically, it's all tied to the capital markets and the implosion of the housing market over the past few years. According to Carnevale, when Wall Street went under so did construction - which is closely linked to architecture field.
Perhaps that's why recent architecture graduates had an unemployment rate of 13.9 percent - the worst unemployment rate of all the listed degrees in the "Hard Times" report. But if your passion still has you signing up for this degree, here are a few examples of the courses that are generally offered in an architecture program, according to the College Board: architectural design, building methods and materials, architectural history, and structural design.

Loved Degree #2: Bachelor's in Communications

If there's one thing we love to do in this age of the Internet, it's communicating. With everything from Twitter and Facebook to chat rooms and blogs blasting us every minute of every day, a degree in communications seems relevant.
The "Hard Times" report found a 7.4 percent unemployment rate among recent grads of communications. And the unemployment rate for experienced grads was even lower at 6.3 percent.
What's behind these strong numbers? Carnevale says communications is growing even though print journalism is not. He adds that "communications includes a lot of the Internet stuff and a lot of the institutional work."
Heathfield echoes this optimism, saying that a specialization in social media could help make you marketable now and well into the future. "But if you only do paper print advertising, you're a dinosaur," she warns.
Click to Find the Right Communications Program.
Ready to learn more about social media and the communications field? The College Board says mass communications programs typically include courses in communication and mass media research, media law and ethics, mass media and society, or global perspectives in media.

Hated Degree #2: Bachelor's in Fine Arts

We're not trying to stunt your growth as an artist here. But if you're planning to pursue a fine arts - or any arts - degree, Carnevale and his "Hard Times" report have some possibly uninspiring advice.
The report found that recent fine arts grads had a high unemployment rate of 12.6 percent. Experienced grads did fare a bit better, though, at 7.3 percent.
"There just isn't that much demand for the arts. We're taking the arts out of a lot of our schools," says Carnevale. "And at the same time a lot of people get degrees in the arts."

Carnevale advises considering a master's degree if you pursue the arts, which he says could open a lot of doors.
If you still want to study fine arts, your coursework depends on the area of art that you choose to study. For example, the U.S. Department of Labor notes that fine arts courses could include studio art, art history, and even core subjects like English and social science.

Loved Degree #3: Bachelor's in Computer Science

Are you thinking about putting your love for computers to the test by earning a degree in computer science?
Employers like what you're thinking, at least according to Heathfield and the "Hard Times" report. The report found that recent computer science grads had a 7.8 percent unemployment rate, while experienced computer science grads had an even lower unemployment rate of 5.6 percent.
What are some factors that might contribute to these low unemployment figures? Consider this: "There's just a whole wide range of what this degree can prepare you to do," says Heathfield. "You can do development, technology support, IT systems; you could move into the cloud and mobile world, data and network security, and identity theft."
Click to Find the Right Computer Science Program.
The College Board says that computer science programs could include courses in artificial intelligence, digital system design, software engineering, or computer system organization.

Hated Degree #3: Bachelor's in Philosophy

Philosophy is a wonderful and fascinating field that delves into life's biggest questions: What is consciousness? Why should we be ethical? Why can't I find a job? Oh, sorry, that last one is not usually asked in school - but it may be asked when you graduate with a philosophy degree.
According to the "Hard Times" report, recent philosophy and religious studies grads had a high unemployment rate of 10.8 percent.
"Humanities degrees may make you a really well-rounded person, and I treasure my background in English, but they aren't giving you a skill that you can apply in the workplace unless you go on for advanced degrees," says Heathfield.

Carnevale agrees, adding that if students don't get a higher degree in philosophy, they often pursue a law degree or a teaching credential for more career prospects.
If you decide to stick with philosophy, the College Board lists some common courses such as epistemology, logic, ethics, and metaphysics. And to help put philosophy hopefuls at slight ease, the "Hard Times" report noted that experienced grads in this field had a more favorable unemployment rate of 6.8 percent.

Loved Degree #4: Bachelor's in Nursing

Do you have a great bedside manner and a hankering to help those in need? Pursuing a nursing degree could be your calling. With an unemployment rate of 4 percent for recent grads and only 1.9 percent for experienced grads - according to the "Hard Times" report - it's probably safe to say that employers are quite fond of this degree.
Because nurses can't be outsourced, says Heathfield, and in the future world order, that's a big deal.
"Degrees that lead to careers that provide direct services to patients in health care will be in higher demand," she says. "Registered nurse is the prime example of this."
Click to Find the Right Registered Nursing Program.
Nursing students may take commonly offered courses such as anatomy and physiology, health assessment, nutrition, or pharmacology, according to the College Board.

Six Fast-Growing Careers Taking Over the U.S.

Source: Yahoo

Despite the delicate economy, these jobs are projected to experience significant growth until at least 2020.

By Terri Williams

Whether you are fresh out of college, unemployed, or considering a mid-career change, you want to land a job in a field that's growing.
But with the ever-changing global economy, how can you know if today's hot jobs will still be in demand years from now? There may never be an exact science for this type of grand economic prediction, but by looking at the fastest-growing jobs in the country, we can identify some career trends that provide useful direction for anyone wanting to plan their professional future.
Many careers throughout the country are experiencing modest growth, but some quickly expanding fields are seeing at least a 30 percent projected growth between 2010 and 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Intrigued? Keep reading to learn more about six careers that are sweeping the nation.

Career #1: Personal Financial Advisor

Projected Job Growth 2010-2020: 32 percent*

If you're good with numbers, and you like to help people set financial goals and make sound financial decisions, you might be fulfilled in a fast-growing career as a personal financial advisor.
Personal financial advisors help individuals determine the best course of action regarding their money. The U.S. Department of Labor notes that they may assist with investments and help clients achieve financial goals. Personal financial advisors may also provide tax advice and help clients plan for important financial events like retirement.
Why It's Taking Over: "Financial advisors are in high demand to meet the growing number of aging Americans who are retiring," says Kristi Merritt, a career search coach at Claim It, a career consulting company. "These retirees have to make their money last for an indefinite amount of time, so they need investment and money management advice."
Click to Find the Right Finance Program.
Not only that, but the Department of Labor notes that a decrease in corporate and government pension plans will require retirees to take a more active role in planning their financial futures. And this will, in turn, increase the need for personal financial advisors.
Education Options: The Department states that a bachelor's degree is usually required for this position. And while no specific field of study is required, the Department lists economics, business, accounting, finance, mathematics, or law as good preparatory majors if you're considering this career.

Career #2: Database Administrator

Projected Job Growth 2010-2020: 31 percent*

If you are excited by working with digital information, a rapidly-growing career as a database administrator may feed your data desire.
The U.S. Department of Labor states that database administrators are responsible for making sure that the company's computer database runs smoothly. This entails creating and managing the database, in addition to making revisions and performing tests when necessary. Database administrators also work to prevent security breaches and data loss, says the Department of Labor.
Why It's Taking Over: "With the explosion of digital information, database administrators, particularly in SQL Server and Oracle, are essential to protecting company information from digital security threats," says Merritt.
Click to Find the Right IT and Information Systems Program.
The Department adds that the rise of electronic medical records will also spur demand for database administrators working in the health care industry. Additionally, the Department  notes that database administrators are in high demand because there is simply a shortage of qualified workers in the field.
Education Options: To pursue a career as a database administrator, you may need a bachelor's degree in management information systems or a computer-related field, according to the Department. Companies with large databases may prefer those with an MBA.

Career #3: Market Research Analyst

Projected Job Growth 2010-2020: 41 percent*

If you're intrigued by the unofficial science of how products are sold to consumers, you should consider a high-demand career as a market research analyst.
Market research analysts monitor marketing and sales trends and create methods for collecting data, says the U.S. Department of Labor. They also assess the effectiveness of marketing strategies and create charts, graphs, and reports to present their analyses.
Why It's Taking Over: "Research occupations, such as market research analysts, are on the rise as consumerism reaches an all-time high and companies are scrambling to analyze and predict consumer buying trends," notes Merritt.
Click to Find the Right Business Administration Program.
The Department of Labor's 41 percent projected growth rate for the career between 2010 and 2020 confirms this insight. Why so high? The Department attributes the substantial growth to an increased use of data to understand the needs of customers.
Education Options: A bachelor's degree in market research or a related field is usually needed if you want to apply to a market research analyst position, says the Department. Many analysts hold degrees in math, computer science, or statistics, but others may have a background in other areas, such as communications, business administration, or the social sciences. The Department also states that many market research positions may require you to have a master's degree.

Career #4: Medical Assistant

Projected Job Growth 2010-2020: 31 percent*

If you like health and wellness, and you're a people-person who enjoys helping others, you might consider the hot career of medical assisting.
Medical assistants work in different types of medical offices and assist doctors with a variety of patient-related tasks, such as taking and measuring vital signs, giving injections, and preparing blood for laboratory tests, notes the U.S. Department of Labor. Additionally, they may handle administrative duties like answering phones, recording patient information, and scheduling appointments.
Why It's Taking Over: "With the increase of aging baby boomers, many more medical assistants will be needed to help with their health care needs, both in hospitals and elderly care facilities," says Merritt.
Click to Find the Right Medical Assisting Program.
Also, the Department of Labor states that as electronic health records (EHR) become more prevalent, the demand for medical assistants is expected to increase.
Education Options: The Department notes that if you want to pursue this career, most states do not have formal education requirements, but most assistants typically have a high school diploma. The Department also notes that some states might require you to graduate from an accredited program, or complete a medical assistant exam, or both. 

Career #5: Physical Therapy Assistant

Projected Job Growth 2010-2020: 46 percent*

If you have a tolerant personality, and like the idea of helping injured or sick patients regain their mobility, you might enjoy an in-demand career as a physical therapist assistant.
The U.S. Department of Labor reports that physical therapy assistants treat injured patients using massage and other methods. They also help patients use walkers, stretch, or perform exercises. In addition, these professionals may execute other duties, like setting up the treatment area or providing clerical support, says the Department of Labor
Why It's Taking Over: "There's an increasingly older population that wants to remain independent and mobile - even when they fall or get injured," says Merritt. "They're turning to physical therapy as a way to restore their strength, flexibility, and range of motion, so they can continue to be self-reliant."
Click to Find the Right Physical Therapy Assisting Program.
The Department adds that the large number of aging baby boomers will require physical rehabilitation, as they are more susceptible to heart attacks, strokes, and other debilitating conditions.
Education Options: If you want to pursue a career as a physical therapy assistant, most states will require that you have an associate's degree in physical therapy, according to the Department.

Career #6: Software Developer

Projected Job Growth 2010-2020: 30 percent*

If the idea of combining analytical, technical, and creative skills to design computer software sounds intriguing, you may be hard-wired for a rapidly-growing career as a software developer.
Software designers evaluate a client's software needs, and then create software solutions, says the U.S. Department of Labor. They also test and maintain computer software as needed.
Why It's Taking Over: "Software development is exploding and the demand from software companies is far exceeding the number of developers available, including trainable students," says Merritt.
Click to Find the Right Computer Science Program.
The Department of Labor notes that the skyrocketing demand is due in part to an increase in products that use software. The prevalence of smartphones, increasing use of electronic health records, and additional need for cyber security, notes the Department, have also contributed to the boom in this career.
Education Options: According to the Department, you'll need to have a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related subject to pursue this career, which is typical for software developers.

How to Change Careers to Get Happier

Check out these careers that could help others as well as improve your happiness.

By Jennifer Berry

Do you dread going to work every day? You're not alone.
According to a 2009 survey, "I Can't Get No... Job Satisfaction," from the Conference Board, less than half of Americans are satisfied with their jobs.
If you're ready to take control of your career happiness, good news: There are careers out there that tend to be more fulfilling.
Keep reading to learn more.

Career #1: Psychologist

Do people turn to you when in need of a good listener or some wise advice? If you feel happy when helping people work through their problems, you might want to think about pursuing a career as a psychologist.
As a psychologist, you could study human behavior by observing how people relate to one another and their environment, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Your insights might help people at home, at work, or as they struggle with substance abuse.
Career change coach Janet Cranford highlights the differences between the two main types of psychologists. "Clinical and counseling psychologists help people understand themselves better, resolve problems that are getting in the way of living fully, and communicate more effectively. Research psychologists contribute to broader knowledge about behavior, which may affect many lives."
Things to Think About: Regardless of type, "a good psychologist is caring, empathetic, intuitive, emotionally mature, self-aware, open-minded, and patient," says Cranford.
Click to Find the Right Psychology Program.
Education: According to the Department of Labor, a bachelor's degree in psychology might be needed to prepare to pursue some master's in psychology programs. Most clinical, counseling, and research psychologists need to earn a doctoral degree. But a master's in psychology could be sufficient for industrial-organizational psychologists or school psychologists, says the Department.

Career #2: Elementary School Teacher

Do you get excited when thinking about helping shape the next generation of young minds? Consider preparing for a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher.
As an elementary school teacher, your daily activities might include planning and assigning lessons, preparing and grading tests, and maintaining discipline in the classroom, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. And as you teach the fundamentals to children, you may be able to help them grow into confident and successful members of our society.
Things to Think About: "Elementary school teachers have the opportunity to teach children a love of learning that hopefully will last them a lifetime," Cranford says. "Good elementary school teachers are patient, organized, enthusiastic about learning, creative, and have a healthy sense of humor. And of course they enjoy being around children."
Click to Find the Right Education Program.
Education: A bachelor's degree in elementary education is required to pursue an elementary teaching position, according to the Department of Labor. You'll also need to get your teaching license to teach in a public school.

Career #3: Registered Nurse

If you like providing personal care to loved ones in times of difficulty, you may find happiness in a career as a registered nurse, where you could witness the most intense moments of human experience, from the beginning of life to its end.
As a registered nurse (RN), the U.S. Department of Labor says that you could treat and educate patients as well as provide them with advice and emotional support. During a typical day, you might administer medication, consult with physicians, and even run immunization clinics or blood drives.
Things to Think About: "It's worth remembering that patients often have more contact with nurses than doctors these days," Cranford says. "A good nurse is caring, empathetic, calm, patient, flexible, a good listener, and pays attention to details."
Click to Find the Right Nursing Program.
Education: One path you could take to prepare for a registered nursing career is earning your associate's degree in nursing, says the Department of Labor. The program's coursework and hands-on clinical experience could help you get ready for the national licensing examination.

Career #4: Social Worker

Do you feel passionate about standing up for people who can't always protect themselves? You may be able to make a positive difference by pursuing a career as a social worker.
As a social worker, you may help people deal with family and personal problems, life-threatening diseases, inadequate housing, or substance abuse, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. You may also assist families involved in serious domestic conflicts - sometimes involving child or spousal abuse, adds the Department of Labor.
Things to Think About: "Social workers counsel, educate, and empower people to make the most of their strengths, and connect them with community resources to help them function as independently as possible," Cranford says. "They are compassionate, caring, nonjudgmental, and have a commitment to social justice and an appreciation of diversity."
Click to Find the Right Psychology Program.
Education: According to the Department, a bachelor's degree in social work is the common route to qualify for most direct-service social work careers. A bachelor's in a related field like psychology or sociology could also work for some employers. Some social work positions may require a master's degree in social work.

Career #5: Physical Therapist Assistant

Do you gain happiness from little kindnesses like holding open a door for someone on crutches or helping an older person cross the street? You may be able to take your helpful nature to the next level by pursuing a career as a physical therapist assistant.
Physical therapy assistants could help patients improve movement and manage pain after injuries, illnesses, or surgery, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Under the supervision of a physical therapist, you might assist with therapeutic treatments such as applying hot and cold packs, giving massages, or providing electrical stimulation, adds the Department of Labor.
Things to Think About: "As a physical therapist assistant, you can help people regain their mobility and independent physical functioning," Cranford says. "Physical therapist assistants should be in good physical condition, have patience, good communication skills, and the ability to motivate."
Click to Find the Right Physical Therapy Assistance Program.
Education: An associate's degree in physical therapy assisting is generally needed to pursue a career as a physical therapy assistant, according to the Department. Check to make sure that the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.

Career #6: Veterinary Technician

Were you one of those kids who always brought stray animals home? You could experience happiness each day as a veterinary technician where you could put your empathy for animals to work.
As a veterinary technician, you could monitor the behavior and condition of animals, perform laboratory tests on urine or blood, and assist veterinarians with surgical procedures or dental cleanings, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Things to Think About: "Veterinary technicians change the lives of animals and the people who love them," Cranford says. "They care for and heal animals, which are often people's pets. They also educate people about the best ways to maximize the quality of life for their pets."
Click to Find the Right Veterinary Technician Program.
Education: An associate's degree in veterinary technology is a common education path for veterinary technicians, according to the Department of Labor. And you may need to pass a credentialing exam, depending on your state.