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Valuable college degrees that are worthwhile

College tuition is skyrocketing, but these six worthwhile degrees have high payback potential.

By Lia Sestric

Before you finalize that degree choice, stop and ask, what value does it hold? You just may thank yourself later.
With college tuition and student debt skyrocketing, a student should be aware of a degree's payback potential, says Sharon Gilbert, a career coach and author of "Beyond Tuition: Career Coaching Your College Kid."
"Making an informed decision includes considering the starting salary, earning potential, hot skill sets, and the employment demand of a given major to determine the best return on investment," she says.
If you're looking for a good return on your investment, check out the following six degrees. They could prepare you to pursue careers that have a median salary of at least $50K, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Degree #1: Health Care Administration

You know there's potential for a healthy salary when health care continues to be ranked among one of the fastest-growing professions. So why not capitalize on this demand and study health care administration?
Why It Pays: The value of this degree boils down to the overall health care surge, says Gilbert. "More nurses and physicians will be needed to care for an aging U.S. population. Consequently, more health care administrators will be needed to manage the increasing number of health care professionals and facilities.
Furthermore, Gilbert says a bachelor's in health care administration is a good investment because it could prepare you to pursue many lucrative career opportunities. "It can prepare you for a wide range of entry-level positions in the health care industry, including care coordinator, account manager, practice administrator, billing administrator, service coordinator, case manager, and even entry-level supervisory roles," she says.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Health Care Administration Program.
What You May Learn: The U.S. Department of Labor says a bachelor's program may prepare students for higher level management jobs. What courses might you take as a student? Human resources management, long-term care and aging, and health care law are all possibilities, says the College Board, an organization that promotes higher education.
Potential Career*:
Median Annual Salary: $88,580*
Top 10 Percent of Earners: $150,560*
Bottom 10 Percent of Earners: $53,940*

Degree #2: Computer Science

If you are looking to reboot your career and upgrade your pay, you should consider studying computer science. That's assuming you are interested in learning the ins and outs of computers - and potentially profiting from that knowledge.
Why It Pays: The ability to write computer programming code is a highly desired skill set, and few people have it, according to Stuart Mease, director of undergraduate career services at Virginia Tech's Pamplin College of Business.
"Without question a CS degree would open up limitless job opportunities and significantly increase one's compensation," he says. Plus, a computer science degree enables one to be eligible for countless private sector jobs working on government contracts, as well as public sector jobs working directly for the federal government, explains Mease.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Computer Science Program.
What You May Learn: A computer science program will provide students with hands-on experience in some of the tasks they may do on the job, says the U.S. Department of Labor. These tasks may include writing code and debugging programs. And how do classes in digital system design, artificial intelligence, and software engineering sound? This is just a sampling of the courses you may take, says the College Board.
Plus, by successfully completing a computer science program, you may find yourself in a better position for a job and pay, notes Mease.
Potential Career*:
Median Annual Salary: $74,280*
Top 10 Percent of Earners: $117,890*
Bottom 10 Percent of Earners: $42,850*

Degree #3: Criminal Justice

Are you ready to serve with the men and women in blue? Pursuing a degree in criminal justice could prepare you for a career as a law enforcement officer, with payback potential that's not too shabby.
Why It Pays: Public safety is a major concern in today's society, says Gilbert, and because of that criminal justice could prepare you for many career paths (that are lucrative too!). Unlike other fields, Gilbert says there is one driving force for higher pay. "Many criminal justice salaries depend upon a risk factor. Police and detective work can be physically demanding, stressful, and dangerous. Police officers have one of the highest rates of on-the-job injuries and fatalities."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Criminal Justice Program.
What You May Learn: Students learn about the legal system, theories of crime, and public policy. They also learn how to manage a budget and staff, says Gilbert. According to the College Board, courses might include policing society, the U.S. criminal-justice system, and juvenile justice. The College Board also notes that the degree might be offered at the associate's and bachelor's level.
Potential Career*:
Median Annual Salary: $55,270*
Top 10 Percent of Earners: $89,310*
Bottom 10 Percent of Earners: $32,350*

Degree #4: Dental Hygiene

Who says you have to be the dentist to make a generous salary? If you aren't too fond about extra schooling to work in the dental field, perhaps this will make you grin from ear to ear. You could earn an associate's degree in dental hygiene, which could have solid payback potential.
Why It Pays: In addition to coursework, a degree in dental hygiene gives students essential hands-on experience and valuable communication and interpersonal skills, notes Gilbert.
"Since dental hygienists sometimes perform the majority of work on patients done during check-ups," says Gilbert, "they need to be current on the latest best practices, be well versed in the science and medical knowledge behind dental hygiene, and have exceptional manual dexterity skills to use a variety of dental instruments."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Dental Hygiene Program.
What You May Learn: The College Board says a student will train to care for tooth decay, diseases, and other injuries to the mouth. Some common courses may include dental anatomy, preventative dentistry, and dental materials.
Potential Career*:
Median Annual Salary: $70,210*
Top 10 Percent of Earners: $96,280*
Bottom 10 Percent of Earners: $46,540*

Degree #5: Accounting

Are you known for your critical eye? If you don't mind working with numbers, you may want to keep your eye on an accounting program. After completing this degree, you may just find yourself in a profitable career.
Why It Pays: "A degree in accounting is valued in the labor market because in successfully completing an accounting degree, students emerge with a balance of technical skills, an understanding of sources and uses of information, as well as a heightened critical-thinking and problem-solving ability," says Greg Sommers, director of the master of science in accounting program at the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Accounting Program.
What You May Learn: An accounting student could learn how to gather, record, and analyze data about an organization's or individual's financial performance, says the College Board. Does tax accounting, business law, and auditing sound up your alley? Those are some of the courses you might take in this major, according to the College Board.
Potential Career*:
Median Annual Salary: $63,550*
Top 10 Percent of Earners: $111,510*
Bottom 10 Percent of Earners: $39,930*

Degree #6: Information Technology

Do you consider yourself multitalented with strong points in business and computer science? An information technology program may be a perfect match for you. Plus, it may set you up for a career with pay that won't disappoint.
Why It Pays: "[An] information technology degree offers individuals a formidable level of depth of key IT skills such as analytics, database mining, introduction to programming languages, and above average Excel skills," says Mease. "What we have seen is that students who possess this type of technical knowledge coupled with softer skills in business acumen make them a valuable linchpin in organizations connecting business and technical functions, especially in a team format."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Information Technology Program.
What You May Learn: In an information technology (IT) program, you'll learn how information and computing systems support business and communication needs, says the College Board. Be ready to hone your technical and communication skills through the program as well. Courses may include introduction to computer science, database management systems, and web technologies.
Potential Career*:
Median Annual Salary: $77,080*
Top 10 Percent of Earners: $118,720*
Bottom 10 Percent of Earners: $42,930*

The hottest fields of the next decade and beyond

Source: Yahoo

Wondering where the jobs will be in coming years? These industries will be the next big thing from 2018-2025.

By Terence Loose

If you're thinking of going back to school to help you find a new, more lucrative, and in-demand career when you graduate, it might be a good idea to know where market demand will be in the coming decade.
That was the idea behind the recent study "Where the Hot Jobs Will Be 2018-2025" by the global outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. Their study, released in September 2013, highlighted about a dozen fields that will be heating up during those years. These are fields that any prospective college student should know about.
So we interviewed the company's CEO, John Challenger, matched some of his predictions with the authoritative U.S. Department of Labor statistics, and came up with valuable information on the most in-demand fields for the near future.

Field #1: Big Data

Big Data is the term used to describe the enormous amount of data that companies are accumulating thanks to advanced computer technology, says Challenger. They've been collecting information on customer and population habits, trends, preferences, and other key subjects for a decade or more, he says.
Now it's time to cash in, but that takes experts such as database administrators. These techies manage companies' databases, ensuring data is organized and ready to use, says the U.S. Department of Labor. They might do things like merge old databases into new ones, create custom databases to meet company needs, and test modifications, says the Department.
"The vast amount of big data has to be organized, sorted, and managed. That's where the skills of a database administrator come in, and they are and will be in high demand," says Challenger.
Next step: Click to Find the Right IT and Information Systems Program.
Projected Growth 2010 to 2020:* 31 percent
Median Annual Salary:** $77,080. The top 10 percent of database administrators makes $118,720, while the lowest 10 percent makes $42,930.
Education Requirements: Most database administrators have a bachelor's degree in management information systems or a computer-related field, says the Department of Labor.

Field #2: Physical Therapy

With an aging population thanks to the baby boomer generation retiring and wanting to stay active well into their golden years, Challenger says the field of physical therapy will be in great demand. The baby boomers, along with people of all ages, will need these professionals to help them recover after everything from sports injuries to medical procedures, he says.
That's why one career he predicts as in-demand in the future is physical therapy assistant. Working under the guidance of a physical therapist, physical therapy assistants help patients recovering from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries to regain movement and manage pain, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
The personal nature of the job is what will make it hot in the future, says Challenger, as it is least likely to be replaced by technology or moved offshore. "People need people to help them with their injuries, and they have to be hands-on," he adds.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Physical Therapy Assistant Program.
Projected Growth 2010 to 2020:* 46 percent
Median Annual Salary:** $52,160. The top 10 percent of physical therapy assistants makes $72,720, while the lowest 10 percent makes $32,420.
Education Requirements: Most states require physical therapy assistants to complete an associate's degree from an accredited physical therapist program, says the Department of Labor.

Field #3: Medical Technicians

Medical technicians offer an answer to cutting down costs and freeing up doctors and nurses to spend more time with patients, says Challenger. These health care professionals often run sophisticated diagnostic machines to complete MRIs, ultrasounds, and echocardiograms instead of using more invasive equipment.
One growing medical technician career is diagnostic medical sonographer. These medical technicians use sensitive imaging equipment that directs sound waves into patients' bodies to assess and diagnose various medical conditions, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
"These are not simple, easy-to-use machines," says Challenger. "As technology grows more complex we need more people who are trained in using [them]." He adds that these machines will only be used more frequently as technology advances, which will drive demand for these technicians.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.
Projected Growth 2010 to 2020:* 44 percent
Median Annual Salary:** $65,860. The top 10 percent of diagnostic medical sonographers makes $91,070, while the lowest 10 percent makes $44,990.
Education Requirements: The U.S. Department of Labor says that diagnostic medical sonographers need either an associate's degree or a postsecondary certificate. Many employers also require candidates to have professional certification.

Field #4: Teachers

Because the teaching workforce is one of the nation's oldest in terms of age, says Challenger, there will be many openings due to retirement over the next decade. This will add to the job growth in this area and put certain positions in education in demand.
One such career is elementary school teacher. We all know how important good elementary teachers are for the development of young minds. As the U.S. Department of Labor says, these educators prepare young students for their academic career by teaching them the basics, like math and reading. As professions go, that's pretty noble.
"We're always going to need elementary school teachers, so they will not only be in demand, but they will never be off-shored or replaced by machines," says Challenger. "It's local, and it's personal. That's why teachers will be in demand for a long time," he adds.
Next step: Click to Find the Right K-12 Education Program.
Projected Growth 2010 to 2020:* 17 percent
Median Annual Salary:** $53,400. The top 10 percent of elementary school teachers makes $83,160, while the lowest 10 percent makes $35,630.
Education Requirements: Every state requires public elementary school teachers to have a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a license, says the Department of Labor. Private school teachers do not have the same requirements, but the Department says that most private schools seek teachers with a bachelor's in elementary education.

Field #5: Sales & Marketing

Here's a fact that every entrepreneur knows: You could have the greatest product since the iPhone, but if you don't have a team able to get it noticed by the right consumers, you may as well have invented a new buggy whip. Sales and marketing are crucial now and are only getting more important with the proliferation of social media, says Challenger.
So he says one career vital to businesses in the future will be market research analyst. These professionals study market data to inform companies about what products customers want and how much they'll pay for them, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
Companies are collecting a lot of information on customer habits, and that's where these professionals step in, explains Challenger. "In addition to managing the data, analyzing it is vital to making better business decisions. That's why market research analysts will be in demand," he says.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Business Administration Program.
Projected Growth 2010 to 2020:* 41 percent
Median Annual Salary:** $60,300. The top 10 percent of market research analysts makes $113,500, while the lowest 10 percent makes $33,280.
Education Requirements: The Department of Labor says that market research analysts usually need a bachelor's degree in market research or a related field. Many people in these positions have degrees in statistics, computer science, or math, while others have a background in business administration, communications, or one of the social sciences, notes the Department.

Field #6: Research and Development

In business, there's a saying: If you're not moving forward, you're dying. And the way you move forward, says Challenger, is through research and development. But because of advancing technology, he says product development will not only be more important than ever but is already moving faster than ever.
So, he says one among many in-demand R&D careers for the future is mechanical engineer. These are the pros who research, design, develop, build, and test mechanical devices, such as tools, engines, and machines, says the U.S. Department of Labor. They develop and test prototypes and oversee manufacturing as well.
"With technology and development advancing so fast, bringing on scientists and engineers - like mechanical engineers - to design new products is crucial to long-term company survival. Companies invest in their future through their R&D people, and that will only be more important in the future," says Challenger.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Engineering Program.
Projected Growth 2010 to 2020:* 9 percent
Median Annual Salary:** $80,580. The top 10 percent of mechanical engineers makes $121,530, while the lowest 10 percent makes $52,030.
Education Requirements: The Department of Labor says that nearly all mechanical engineering positions require a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.

The 7 hottest jobs for young adults

Source: Yahoo

Wondering which post-grad jobs could help you launch your career? We found fast-growing, high-pay jobs perfect for young adults.

By Andrea Duchon

If it seems like it's taking longer for workers to reach a decent wage than ever before, that's because it is. According to a recent study conducted by Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce titled "Failure to Launch: Structural Shift and the New Lost Generation," it took longer for young adults to reach the median wage in 2012 than it did in 1980. In fact, the average age at which professionals reach the median wage has shifted from 26 to 30.
That doesn't mean that all up-and-coming employees these days will be forced to move back in with Mom and Dad. In fact, the same study says that from 2012 to 2021, 14 million jobs will be created as older workers begin to retire.
So before you give up hope for a promising career, check out the list below of seven high-paying, fast-growing careers for young adults.

Career #1: Information Security Analyst

Projected Growth Rate from 2010 - 2020: +22 percent*

Median Annual Salary: $86,170**

With everything moving into the digital realm, it only makes sense that digital crime would also grow. Does the idea of helping protect companies against cyber attacks sound interesting to you? Then you should consider the growing - and well-paid - field of information security.
Why It's Hot: With much of our lives and our economy online, we need a safe and secure cyber world, says Timothy J. Sweeney, assistant dean of the College of Science and Technology at Bellevue University.
"Unfortunately, the risk and reality of unauthorized access and use of our information are higher than ever," Sweeney says. "In order to combat [that], we must have trained and experienced cyber-security professionals who can defend our critical infrastructure and technologies."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Computer Science Program.
Education Requirements: Most information security analysts usually need a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field like computer science or programming, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. They also say that employers of analysts sometimes prefer applicants with an MBA (Master of Business Administration) in information systems.

Career #2: Personal Financial Advisor

Projected Growth Rate from 2010 - 2020: +32 percent*

Median Annual Salary: $67,520**

Are you the person that all of your friends turn to for financial advice? You could get your feet wet in the professional world by turning your passion for problem-solving and investment into a high-profile career as a personal financial advisor.
Why It's Hot: The high growth for this career is largely connected to the increase in retiring workers who are looking to manage their finances, says Amina Yamusah, co-founder of Breaking.It.Down, an online resource offering career and college advice geared toward black students pursuing higher education.
Additionally, with the recent recession and other economic woes, more and more people are paying attention to their finances than ever before, says Cathy Mueller, executive director at Mapping Your Future, a public service nonprofit organization providing college, career, and financial aid information.
But before you make the jump, Mueller also cautions that this field can be extremely competitive, so you should be prepared to work hard if you want to pursue this career.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Finance Program.
Education Requirements: The U.S. Department of Labor says you'll typically need a bachelor's degree to pursue a career as a personal financial advisor. While employers usually don't require a specific field of study, a degree in finance, economics, accounting, business, math, or law is good prep, according to the Department of Labor. Certification and a master's degree could improve chances for advancement in this career.

Career #3: Marketing Manager

Projected Growth Rate from 2010 - 2020: +14 percent*

Median Annual Salary: $119,480**

If you're looking to flex your creative side but don't want to spend your 20s as a starving artist, take a look at a career as a marketing manager. Even though you may need to get some work experience under your belt before you take hold of this title, the time and effort spent pursuing this career could really pay off.
Why It's Hot: "As organizations look to reach new customers and new social media apps pop up, they're relying more heavily on creative marketers who will embrace new technology," explains Yamusah. "With this transition comes a ton of new opportunities for recent grads who have grown up in the Internet age to find strong career opportunities in marketing."
But in order to take advantage of this job opportunity, candidates may first need to gain years of work experience since marketing manager is not an entry-level position. Fortunately, there could be a worthwhile career waiting for those willing to put in the work.
According to Mueller, the opportunity to pursue this career is only growing, along with the demand for social media and technological skills. She adds that this rapidly changing field needs strategic and creative thinkers.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Business Program.
Education Requirements: A bachelor's degree is required for most marketing management positions, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Managers typically have work experience in advertising, marketing, promotions, or sales. The Department of Labor adds that coursework in subjects like business law, management, accounting, finance, economics, math, and statistics are advantageous.

Career #4: Software Developer, Applications

Projected Growth Rate from 2010 - 2020: +28 percent*

Median Annual Salary: $90,060**

Earlier we spoke about keeping organizations and their networks safe on the web, but what about the actual building of computer programs? If you're more interested in creating applications rather than keeping them secure, a career as a software developer could be the perfect fit for you as you enter the job market.
Why It's Hot: As companies look to create interactive experiences for their customers, they are looking for employees with the tech skills to make software that increases efficiency, says Yamusah. "For example, it is more cost-effective for a company to hire someone who can design and manage an interactive customer experience online via software, rather than paying numerous customer-service representatives to handle customer needs via phone or email."
"With highly publicized conversations about the shortage of workers with strong developing skills, the opportunities for recent graduates include great pay and perks," she adds.
Sweeney says that as we roll into the future, the reality that software and computers profoundly impact our lives will continue to become more apparent. "With this ever increasing dependence on computers and the software that runs them or runs on them, the demand for people to develop new and better software will continue to increase."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Computer Science Program.
Education Requirements: Usually, software developers have a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field, says the U.S. Department of Labor. Math degrees are also acceptable and software developers typically must have strong computer programming skills.

Career #5: Medical and Health Services Manager

Projected Growth Rate from 2010 - 2020: +22 percent*

Median Annual Salary: $88,580**

Maybe you've always wanted to make a difference in the medical field, but you don't want to pursue the path of doctor or nurse. A career as a medical and health services manager could allow you to straddle the patient-administration divide, put money in your bank account, and offer you a stable career path.
Why It's Hot: Medical and health services managers will be in demand more than ever with the new health care laws coming into effect, says Provitera.
Yamusah agrees: "One phrase: Affordable Care Act. With millions of new entries into the health care system, health organizations will need growing numbers of managers to ensure high quality care at affordable rates."
So why is this job great for young adults?
Recent graduates can find medical manager opportunities all over the country, says Yamusah. "Combine that with great pay and a fulfilling mission, and you have a pretty great job."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Health Care Administration Program.
Education Requirements: "Prospective medical and health services managers have a bachelor's degree in health administration," says the U.S. Department of Labor, though master's degrees in health services, public health, public administration, long-term care administration, or business administration are also common.

Career #6: Industrial Organizational Psychologist

Projected Growth Rate from 2010 - 2020: +35 percent*

Median Annual Salary: $83,580**

Perhaps you have a passion for improving the lives of those around you. If you'd like to make helping people part of your job, you may want to consider a career as an industrial organizational psychologist. These professionals use psychological principles to solve problems and improve the quality of work life, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. By pursuing this career path, they say you could affect everything from workplace productivity to policy planning.
Why It's Hot: Industrial organizational psychologists are in demand as companies seek to downsize, train, and most importantly, deal with ever-changing and demanding rules and regulations, notes Provitera.
"If a student is interested in a psychology degree but doesn't necessarily want to pursue a doctorate, this type of position may be a good fit," says Mueller.
Some of the reasons that this career is great for young adults: Great pay, the opportunity to help companies grow and make progressive changes in their workplace, and a large amount of responsibility regarding company strategies, according to Yamusah.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Psychology Program.
Education Requirements: Those with a master's degree in psychology could work as an industrial-organizational psychologist, says the U.S. Department of Labor. Practicing psychologists or those workers using the title of "psychologist" are required to have a license or certification from the state.

Career #7: Art Director

Projected Growth Rate from 2010 - 2020: +9 percent*

Median Annual Salary: $80,880**

For creative types, a career as an art director could allow them the freedom to create art day after day, while at the same time, giving you a steady paycheck and reliable job. Along with a creative team, the U.S. Department of Labor says that art directors conceptualize and create the visual style for magazines, newspapers, movie and television productions, and product packaging. That also means you probably won't be able to snag this title without at least a few years out in the field. Still, a career as an art director is a great goal for young career seekers.
Why It's Hot: First of all, the job title of "art director" is not a one-size-fits-all moniker, says Donna Hewlett, program director of the master's of fine arts program in creativity at Bellevue University.
"That's because art directors can work for motion picture and video industries, newspapers, advertising, public relations, or specialized design services, just to name a few options. It is precisely this diversity that appeals to young adults who have grown up in a media-rich environment," she adds.
While art director is a great career to which to aspire, it's important to remember that this position may take years of work experience to reach and is by no means an entry-level job. According to Mueller, an art director needs a combination of creative expertise, strong leadership, and team-building skills along with the on-time delivery of products, and could command a good salary and sustain regular business.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Arts and Design Program.
Education Requirements: The U.S. Department of Labor says that art directors need at least a bachelor's degree in art or design subject, paired with previous work experience. In fact, many of these professionals may start out as graphic designers, illustrators, copyeditors, or photographers, or in another art or design occupation.