Switch to a fast-growing career in as little as 2 years

Source: Yahoo

Looking to make a career switch? You could pursue one of these careers in as little as two years.

By Andrea Duchon

When you think about making the jump to a new career, you might picture mounds of textbooks and endless years of sleepless nights. But what if we told you that preparing for a new career doesn't have to take forever? In fact, you could make the switch to a new career with an associate's degree - which you could earn in as little as two years.
Here's some even better news: We've narrowed down six careers that are all slated to grow by at least 18 percent from 2010 to 2020 - approximately 4 percent more than the average for all occupations - according to predictions by the U.S. Department of Labor. Keep reading to find out what they are.

Career #1: Dental Hygienist

Growth Rate from 2010-2020: 38 percent, or 68,500 added jobs*
Have you always wanted to work in a dentist's office, but can't possibly commit to dental school and a gruesome post-school rotation schedule? Prepping to pursue a career as a dental hygienist in as little as two years could get you in the office door, without logging the hours to earn your D.D.S. And just like other arms of health care, this is a career that's on the climb through 2020.
Dental hygienists might clean teeth, examine for oral disease, educate patients on good oral health, and take x-rays, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Why It's a Good Switch: There's a broad expectation that dental hygienist opportunities and salaries will continue to grow much faster than the economy as a whole, says Aaron Michel, CEO at PathSource, a comprehensive career exploration company that helps people determine their life direction.
"In part, this is driven by an accelerating use of cosmetic services such as teeth whitening. This is one of America's best-paying jobs, especially given that it only requires two years of education."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Dental Hygiene Program.
Education Options: An associate's degree in dental hygiene is typically needed to pursue this career path, according to the Department of Labor. Additionally, you'll be required to have a license in every state before stepping on the floor as a dental hygienist. The Department notes that requirements vary by state.

Career #2: Preschool Teacher

Growth Rate from 2010-2020: 25 percent, or 113,600 added jobs
Maybe you've always loved children, but thought there was too much competition in the education system to pursue a teaching career. If that sounds familiar, good news! The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the demand for preschool teachers is on the up and up. And with the minimal schooling needed to pursue this career path, you could make a quick career switch.
The Department of Labor says that preschool teachers are typically responsible for preparing kids for kindergarten by planning and carrying out curriculums, organizing learning activities, and keeping records of student progress.
Why It's a Good Switch: Mike Echols, executive vice president of Strategic Initiatives for Bellevue University, says that besides the short-term schooling, the other factor that makes this a good career to switch into is that good teachers will always be in demand.
"The good news is that two years invested in an associate's degree makes a candidate competitive in this field, where 53 percent of the incumbents currently in the role have taken some college credits but do not have a degree," Echols says.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Early Childhood Education Program.
Education Options: It depends where you may want to teach, but the Department says preschool teachers in childcare centers are generally required to have at least a high school diploma and a certification in early childhood education. If you'd like to teach in a Head Start program, you must have at least an associate's degree. However, the Department notes that by 2013, 50 percent of those pursuing a career as a preschool teacher must have a bachelor's degree.
The Department reports that public school teachers are typically required to have a bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related subject.

Career #3: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Growth Rate from 2010-2020: 44 percent, or 23,400 added jobs
Are you fascinated by the advanced use of technology in the medical field, but convinced it would take years to master? Think again! A career as a diagnostic medical sonographer might put you in the driver's seat of medical tech - in as little as two years. Plus, it's also one of the fastest-growing careers on our list.
The U.S. Department of Labor says that sonographers use special equipment to do different types of procedures, such as  ultrasounds, sonograms, and echocardiograms. They might also be responsible for preparing patients for these procedures and recording their findings to help with diagnoses.
Why It's a Good Switch: Echols says that this career pays well in the rapidly growing health care field, because it requires precision and intense focus on the details. Michel adds that diagnostic medical sonographers are highly sought after because of the increasing popularity of ultrasound technology.
"You can't just walk off the street and start doing this job. It requires specialized training, such as an associate's degree," he says. "And as the technology becomes more widely used to diagnose a range of diseases, diagnostic medical sonographers who specialize in using this type of equipment will continue to see their pay and number of job opportunities rise quickly."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Medical Sonography Program.
Education Options: The Department of Labor says you'll need formal education, such as an associate's degree or postsecondary certificate, to pursue this career path. Many employers also require professional certification.

Career #4: Paralegal

Growth Rate from 2010-2020: 18 percent, or 46,900 added jobs
On any given day of the week, your friends can find you in front of the TV screen, shouting out clues as you watch your favorite crime shows. Sound familiar? Why not put your energy toward pursuing a new career as a paralegal instead of yelling at the tube? You could use that TV time to prepare for this fast-growing field.
Paralegals support lawyers by doing a variety of tasks, such as conducting legal research, drafting documents, and investigating the facts of a case, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. And you could have the proper training to pursue a career as a paralegal in two years or more.
Why It's a Good Switch: Michel says that because the legal space has become increasingly more crowded and competitive in recent years, firms are looking to hire more trained, entry-level paralegals to help out with the increased workload.
"Rather than continue to onboard and pay high-priced partners, many law firms are looking to boost their production and reduce their costs by hiring more paralegals," he notes. "This trend is likely to continue in the coming years, and you may also be able to get the job straight out of college if you find a firm that is willing to train you."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Paralegal Program.
Education Options: There are several paths you could take to pursue this career. According to the Department of Labor, most paralegals earn an associate's degree in paralegal studies or get a certificate in paralegal studies if they already have a bachelor's degree in another subject. In some cases, employers might hire college grads with a bachelor's degree and no legal experience and provide on-the-job training.

Career #5: Occupational Therapy Assistant

Growth Rate from 2010-2020: 43 percent, or 12,300 added jobs
Have you always had a knack for nursing people back to health? A career as an occupational therapy assistant could help you flex your caring side in a meaningful way - not to mention you could prep to pursue this career in as few as two years. Want more great news? This career is hot and getting hotter - it's second only to sonographer on our list of the fastest-growing careers from 2010 through 2020.
The U.S. Department of Labor says that occupational therapy assistants help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills they need for day-to-day life. This might involve helping patients with therapeutic activities, like stretches. They might also teach patients to use special equipment while recording their progress.
Why It's a Good Switch: Just as the case with registered nurses, demand for occupational therapy assistants is expected to rise significantly over the coming decade in response to the health care needs of the aging baby-boomer generation, and a growing elderly population, Elizabeth Lasher, a Penn State career counselor, says.
"Occupational therapy assistants will be needed to assist occupational therapists in caring for older individuals. And occupational therapy will also continue to be used for treating children and young adults with developmental disabilities, like autism," she adds. "If you're looking for a growing career field where you can help out and make a difference, this switch makes sense."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Patient Care and Therapy Program.
Education Options: In order to pursue this career, an associate's degree is required, according to the Department of Labor. Occupational therapy assistant programs are commonly available in community colleges and technical schools. Additionally, the Department notes that most states require these professionals to be licensed.

Six high-paying careers you haven't considered

Source: Yahoo

These six professions might have more earning power than you think.

By Danielle Blundell

So you want a high-paying career, eh? Instead of going the typical doctor, lawyer, or Wall Street broker route, where competition is steep, a good strategy might be looking in unexpected places for careers with high salaries. But you'll still want to choose a career that interests you, so the 9 to 5 doesn't feel like drudgery.
According to Stan Kimer, founder and president of Total Engagement Consulting by Kimer, a diversity and career development consultancy, striking that balance between a highly-skilled job and a high-level of personal enjoyment is what leads to career success in the first place. "In any field if you are extremely passionate about what you do and do it very well, you will rise to the top and make more," says Kimer.
Read on for a six great careers across a spectrum of fields that pay surprisingly well.

Career #1: Management Consultant

90th Percentile Salary: $142,580
10th Percentile Salary: $44,370
Median Salary: $78,600*
Are you constantly being asked for your opinion and told you give great advice? Did you know that those same skills are fundamentally applicable - and capable of being monetized - in a career as a management consultant?
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, management consultants may analyze a company's operations and make suggestions on how to improve efficiency and raise profitability. Their responsibilities may also include interviewing personnel and visiting company facilities to determine the methods, personnel, and equipment that will be needed to make improvements.
Why It Pays: According to Kimer, management consultants take home competitive salaries because of their expertise and strong decision-making skills that support a business or company's livelihood. "Very deep expertise in a critical area leads to higher salaries," says Kimer. "Applying long and deep knowledge gained over time, making sound recommendations to clients, being able to quickly identify key issues and develop fixes are some high-paying skills."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Business Program.
Education Requirements: According the Department of Labor, the typical entry-level requirement is a bachelor's degree. Since few schools offer formal programs in management consulting, common fields of study may include business, accounting, management, marketing, computer and information science, engineering, economics, and statistics. Additionally, the Department says that some employers prefer those with a master's degree in business administration.

Career #2: Accountant

90th Percentile Salary: $111,510
10th Percentile Salary: $39,930
Median Salary: $63,550*
Have a knack for calculating taxes, tips, averages, and balances? Pursuing a career as an accountant may be right up your alley. You might be surprised to find out what these professional number crunchers get paid for their services.
There are many types of accountants, but the U.S. Department of Labor says most of them examine financial records to help their companies run efficiently. Some accountants may focus on examining the record of government agencies, while others may help advise on the management of funds.
Why It Pays: Accounting can pay well because of the breadth of financial expertise and longer hours it can sometimes require, says Ramon Santillan, interviewing consultant and founder of Persuasive Interview, an organization that offers interview coaching services "Accountants need to understand how the financial aspect of the company affects its growth. Particularly with the different areas of it (tax, audit, financial reporting, fraud) and long hours, plus in some cases the need for a CPA license, which requires advanced degrees, accountants can be paid well."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Accounting Program.
Education Requirements: According to the Department of Labor, a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field is required for most accountant positions. However, some employers might prefer those with a master's degree in accounting or business administration with a concentration in accounting.

Career #3: Registered Nurse

90th Percentile Salary: $94,720
10th Percentile Salary: $45,040
Median Salary: $65,470*
Nurses' earning power may be overshadowed by physicians and surgeons, but the take-home pay for these caregivers sure isn't shabby. If you've been told you're compassionate, you love working with people, and you're interested in medicine, you might consider preparing to pursue a career as a nurse.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, registered nurses may help coordinate patient care and help administer treatment to the sick and ill. Other common duties could include operating medical equipment, and educating patients and families on managing their illness or injuries at home.
Why It Pays: "Not everyone has the stomach to deal with the duties of a nurse," says Santillan. Essentially, he thinks the graphic nature of nurses' work is one major reason they're paid well.
"Aside from requiring certain types of degrees and licenses in some states, nurses have to maintain their cool and composure, remember all their training, and still maintain a soft demeanor under stressful situations," he says. "Who wants a nurse that's freaking out when they see a little blood?"
Next step: Click to Find the Right Nursing Program.
Education Requirements: There are several potential routes to pursuing work as a nurse: an associate's degree in nursing, a diploma from an approved nursing program, or a bachelor's of science in nursing, according to the Department of Labor. Additionally, the Department says you will have to pass a state licensing exam to obtain licensure and qualify for providing care as a professional.

Career #4: Fashion Designer

90th Percentile Salary: $126,290
10th Percentile Salary: $34,110
Median Salary: $62,860*
There are plenty of "starving" fashion artists on shows like "Project Runway" and "Fashion Star," but things look a lot better for the ones who make it in this industry. Pay in apparel and accessory design might be more than you think, especially compared to some other creative professions like theater or dance. So, if you're artsy and love shopping for clothes, you might want to take a closer look at fashion design as a potential profession.
There many different kinds of fashion designers. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, some may design clothing or footwear, while others may create costumes or accessories. Whatever kind of role a fashion designer has, they could be responsible for anticipating upcoming trends and predicting what fashions will appeal to consumers.
Why It Pays: You might think fashion is based on nothing but trends, but Santillan says pay can be surprisingly high because workers have to be manually skilled as well as innovative thinkers - which is an invaluable mixture for labels looking to create the next big thing.
"More than schooling, it takes creativity and persistence to make it in the fashion industry," says Santillan. "Similar to professional football, those that make it are handsomely rewarded, but there are literally thousands that will never get to that level."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Fashion Design Program.
Education Requirements: According to the Department of Labor, post-secondary education is not required, but many fashion designers take courses or earn an associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field such as fashion merchandising. The Department also notes that employers rely on a designer's portfolio when deciding whether to hire the applicant or not.

Career #5: Web Developer

90th Percentile Salary: $105,200
10th Percentile Salary: $33,550
Median Salary: $62,500*
You wish you could spend all day on the couch testing out apps and surfing different websites on your phone and iPad. Well, what if you could make money developing the sites and mobile experience rather than just browsing them for sport? You might be shocked to learn that you could fetch a decent salary professionalizing your hobby as a web developer.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, web development is a large field filled with many specialists. In general, the Department of Labor says that web developers may use a wide variety of computer code to design, create, and/or maintain a website or program for a company.
Why It Pays: The potential to make big bucks without spending a ton of time in the classroom may make the high pay for web developer jobs a bit surprising.
"Although you need a high level of knowledge about coding and design, you don't necessarily have to have a formal education in order to make good money as a web developer," says Santillan. "If you work as a freelancer, you have the potential to really make some serious cash."
He does note, though, that freelancers could face off-shore competition for these remote gigs.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Computer Science Program.
Education Requirements: The wide range of skills and positions spanning this field call for different education requirements. According to the Department of Labor, entry-level position requirements vary from a high school diploma to a master's degree, depending on the job. Employers might prefer candidates with a computer-related degree. Proficiency is often paramount to employers, meaning on-the-job experience is highly valued.

Career #6: Market Research Analyst

90th Percentile Salary: $113,500
10th Percentile Salary: $33,280
Median Salary: $60,300*
You've got your finger on the pulse of the latest trends and fads. But even more impressive than that, you've got the intuition to understand why certain things hit it big while others miss the mark. Sound familiar? You might have the aptitude - and a sound skill set - for preparing for a career as a market research analyst. How sweet it will be to get paid well for being customer-savvy.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, market research analysts gather and analyze a wide range of data to potentially help companies market goods and services. The Department of Labor says some of their chief duties may include studying sales trends, consumer preferences, and market conditions, devising methods for collecting data, and converting complex data into understandable reports.
Why It Pays: Market research analysts play an important role to a business' bottom line, but often people don't even know this position exists or that it's directly related to profit, Kimer explains, which makes salaries higher than expected. Kimer also says the skills required to succeed in this field drive high earning power, too.
"'Research' and 'analyst' are two key words here," says Kimer. "Understanding research methodology and analyzing it to make the best recommendations for sales and market growth can make or break a company."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Business Administration Program.
Education Requirements: According to the Department, a bachelor's degree in market research or a related field is typically needed. However, many analysts may have degrees in fields such as computer science, math, or statistics, while others have a background in business administration, communications, or one of the social sciences. The Department also notes that some companies may require at least a master's degree for more senior positions.

Flexible degrees to prepare you for your dream job

Source: Yahoo

Too busy working your nightmarish job to pursue the job of your dreams? Online education could make that dream a reality.

By Terence Loose

Who hasn't dreamed about being a cop, a video game designer, or even an inspiring teacher? Well, if you're still dreaming, but think you're now too busy with work, family, or other obligations to go back to school to pursue that dream career, cheer up. It might not be too late.
That's because online education programs offer a flexible way to earn your degree whenever and wherever it's convenient for you.
"Online degrees are becoming more and more popular because of many things, such as the high cost and inconvenience of attending a university [in person]," says Patrice Rice, president and founder of Patrice & Associates, a national recruiting agency. She says online degrees are a great way for busy people to gain skills or to help them change careers, all while keeping their current job and family responsibilities, both of which are pretty important.
With that in mind, we researched a few degrees that could help you pursue your dream career.

Degree #1: Bachelor's in Criminal Justice

If you were like every other American kid, you dreamt of being a police officer when you were young. If that dream is still alive, you might consider an online criminal justice degree to get you started on making it a reality.
"These degrees work well online because students are typically learning fundamental content like sociology, criminology, psychology, and applicable laws that on-the-job or hands-on training supplements later," says Marie Zimenoff, a job search strategist at A Strategic Advantage, a career management company.
She adds that this degree also works for busy people because the group work requirements are not as intense as many other degrees.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Criminal Justice Program.
About the Degree: Criminal justice majors study all aspects of crime, the law, and the justice system, says the College Board, a nonprofit research organization that promotes higher education. Typical courses include criminology, policing society, victimology, criminal law, and juvenile justice.
Possible Dream Job: Police Officer. Education requirements vary and range from a high school diploma to a college or higher-level degree. And while no specific college degree is required to pursue this career, the U.S. Department of Labor has this to say: "Many applicants for entry-level police jobs have taken some college classes, and a significant number are college graduates. Many junior colleges, colleges, and universities offer programs in law enforcement or criminal justice."

Degree #2: Bachelor's in Computer Science

If your dream job involves creating the next great iPhone app, an online computer science degree might be a great way to boot up your pursuit of that career.
"Depending on your work or educational background, as a busy person, you might look to update your skill set by adding a new [computer] language or technology through a quick online class, or you could earn a computer science degree to support your experience," says Zimenoff. She adds that earning a degree often means more pay.
She says online programs in this major work well because the content is technological in nature, as well as computer-related, which is of course the way you access the online class in the first place.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Computer Science Program.
About the Degree: In a computer science degree program, the College Board says you'll study computer programming, along with the theory and design of software. They say you should prepare to take courses like artificial intelligence, digital system design, software engineering, and data structures and algorithms.
Possible Dream Job: Software Developer. These techies design computer applications, systems, and games, says the U.S. Department of Labor. Software developers usually have a bachelor's in computer science, software engineering, or a related subject. Math degrees are also acceptable.

Degree #3: Bachelor's in Culinary Arts

Do you watch the stars of The Food Network and drool over the chefs' tasty careers? Then an online degree in culinary arts might be the perfect ingredient.
"If you have experience in the food industry and are looking to take a step up, this online degree will be a great option," says Zimenoff. She says the degree will help you keep up with trends in the industry, such as restaurants innovating new food combinations and flavors to attract customers. She adds that you'll need to back up your education with real world experience.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Culinary Arts Program.
About the Degree: In a culinary arts program, the College Board says you'll learn not only how to prepare great tasting food, but also how to run a kitchen and train assistants. Typical courses in this major are food science, foundations of baking, nutrition, professional cooking, and banquets and catering.
Possible Dream Job: Chef. These professionals do more than just cook. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, they might also oversee kitchen staff, create menus, and develop recipes. And while most chefs begin their careers in other kitchen jobs, a growing number of them receive formal training at community colleges, culinary arts schools, technical schools, and two- and four-year institutions, says the Department of Labor.

Degree #4: Bachelor's in Elementary Education

Has your dream always been to help the next generation acquire skills they need to succeed in the world? Then an online degree in elementary education could be the first thing on your study list.
"For a professional working in a different capacity within the education system, this can be a great option for taking that next step," says Zimenoff. "The parts that will work online are the fundamentals and philosophy of education. For example, how students learn, creating lesson plans, and pedagogy."
With an online elementary education degree, Zimenoff says busy people can earn their degree while keeping their jobs, then do the hands-on classroom teaching required for certification as a public school teacher separately.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Elementary Education Program.
About the Degree: In this degree program, the College Board says you'll study a lot more than just teaching methods. You'll also learn about school health and safety issues, educational psychology, and creating exciting lesson plans. Typical courses include instructional technology, philosophy of education, and education of the exceptional child.
Possible Dream Job: Elementary or Kindergarten Teacher. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, every state requires public kindergarten and elementary school teachers to have a bachelor's degree in elementary education. They also must be certified by the state. And while those requirements don't exist for private school teachers, the Department of Labor says private schools typically seek applicants with bachelor's degrees in elementary education.

Degree #5: Bachelor's in Marketing

Is your dream to turn your social media savvy and love of the internet into a career? An online marketing degree could help.
"As innovation in marketing becomes more important to businesses, experienced and new marketing professionals are distinguishing themselves with specialized online training in new design technologies, branding, online content development, and social media strategy," says Zimenoff.
She adds that these programs suit online study, because they are usually closely integrated with the use of technology.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Marketing Program.
About the Degree: The College Board says that marketing majors study innovative and creative ways to make companies' products and services more attractive to customers. Students might take courses like advertising and promotion, international marketing, marketing management, and consumer behavior, says the College Board.
Possible Dream Job: Advertising, Promotions, or Marketing Manager. These pros create and manage the "buzz" from advertising and promotional campaigns to generate interest in products and services, says the U.S. Department of Labor. A bachelor's degree is required for most of these positions, with classes in marketing, market research, consumer behavior, and other similar subjects for advertising and promotions positions. Courses such as management, accounting, finance, and others are advantageous for marketing manager positions, according to the Department of Labor.

Degree #6: Master's in Business Administration (MBA)

Does your dream involve upper management? Do you see yourself making creative business decisions and directing departments or organizations? A master's in business administration (MBA) might be the key to manifesting those goals.
"This is more book learning than practical application, so it's easier to learn and take tests and submit papers online. After all, there's really no hands-on lab work or experiments needed in the finance, accounting, or management fields," says Rice.
She adds, "If someone is going for an MBA, they probably already have a four-year degree and a job. So this is something that can be done online on nights and weekends," says Rice.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online MBA Program.
About the Degree: According to the Princeton Review, an organization that offers test preparation services for those applying to college, an MBA could enhance your professional skills and even increase your value. In an MBA program, you'll gain a broad overview of business and might take courses in areas such as marketing, accounting, or finance, says the Princeton Review.
Possible Dream Job: Art Director. These creative management types are in charge of the visual style and overall look of everything from magazines and newspapers to product packaging and movies, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
Some art directors supplement their work experience with MBAs or MFAs (Master of Fine Arts) in order to demonstrate that they can take on a more managerial or creative role. However, many start out in another art occupation, such as a graphic, industrial, or set designer and gain the appropriate education for that occupation first, notes the Department of Labor.