Five degrees with high-pay potential

Source: Yahoo

These bachelor's degrees could prepare you to pursue careers that pay - on average - over $60K per year.

By Sarita Harbour

Are you thinking about going back to school? If so, you'll want to consider your area of study carefully.
That's because what you major in at college can affect what you make once you're out in the real world. In fact, the Georgetown University Center on Education and Workforce's 2013 study, "Hard Times: College Majors, Unemployment & Earnings" found that your choice of degree may play a critical role in your future earnings.
To help you sort through your options, we went to the U.S. Department of Labor and took a look at a variety of high-paying jobs - to the tune of $60K and up - and which degrees were considered good preparation.
Keep reading to learn more about six degrees that could help you prepare to pursue some great-paying gigs.

Degree #1: Computer Science

Find Degree Programs If you consider yourself both logical and creative, then you might want to pursue a bachelor's in computer science.
Why could this degree be worth the investment? Well, you've probably noticed that computer systems are everywhere, from the apps on your smartphone to the cash register at your local department store. "Practically every business relies on software and the internet, so the job possibilities are almost endless," says Julie Erickson, a career coach and blogger at myrightfitjob.com. And the in-demand skills you might learn in this type of program could translate into many careers with a hefty salary.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Computer Science Program.
Careers You Could Pursue - And What They Might Pay:*
Database Administrator - $77,080
Computer Systems Analyst - $79,680
Software Developer, Applications - $90,060

Degree #2: Graphic Design

Find Degree Programs Since visual information is everywhere, the ability to communicate through graphic design is a hot commodity. And earning a bachelor's in graphic design plus gaining additional years of experience could really pay off.
"Visual images and design are integral to everything on the internet, as well as traditional advertising, marketing, and promotion," Erickson explains. Studying graphic design could prepare you to work on a variety of types of projects - from video games and apps to movies and television, she adds.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Graphic Design Program.
Careers You Could Pursue - And What They Might Pay:*
Multimedia Artist or Animator - $61,370
Art Director - $80,880

Degree #3: Engineering

Find Degree Programs Are you interested in making a living out of building things? Then you may want to consider a bachelor's degree in engineering.
Earning this degree could pay off because it teaches skills transferrable to so many industries, such as working in teams, says Erickson. She adds that many areas of infrastructure require engineering degrees - from repairing bridges and tunnels to helping solve environmental problems.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Engineering Program.
Careers You Could Pursue - And What They Might Pay:*
Civil Engineer - $79,340
Environmental Engineer - $80,890
Sales Engineer - $91,830

Degree #4: Accounting

Find Degree Programs Do you love working with numbers more than anything else? Then you may want to earn a bachelor's degree in accounting, which could open doors to many job opportunities.
Conducting business across the globe is becoming more complex due to globalization, increased government regulation, and tightening purse strings, says Marie Zimenoff, a certified career coach and president of the National Resume Writers' Association. And candidates with an accounting degree may be able to prove their worth to companies. "They have learned the basic accounting principles, how to research ever-changing laws, and financial management methods that a modern operation needs to compete," says Zimenoff.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Accounting Program.
Careers You Could Pursue - And What They Might Pay:*
Accountant and Auditor - $63,550
Personal Financial Advisor - $67,520
Financial Analyst - $76,950

Degree #5: Communications

Find Degree Programs Don't mind taking center stage? Have a knack for talking to people? Then you should consider earning a bachelor's in communications.
Demand for multi-skilled workers is going up while the quality of communication skills is going down, Zimenoff says. This makes the range of skills taught in a communications degree program valuable to potential employers. "These degrees tend to be broad, teaching the fundamentals of verbal and written communications for all purposes," she explains.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Communications Program.
Careers You Could Pursue - And What They Might Pay:*
Technical Writer - $65,500
Public Relations Manager - $95,450

Four Trade Careers That Employers Are Looking to Hire

Source: Yahoo

Looking for work? Many trade careers have a bright outlook for the future.

By Danielle Blundell

With so much emphasis on higher education these days, it may seem like your job search is hopeless without at least a bachelor's degree. However, nothing could be further from the truth.
For one, the most recent U.S. Census data shows that 70.5 percent of those 25 and over who participate in the civilian labor force have less than a bachelor's degree.
And while it's true that a bachelor's degree can be a great route to career opportunities, there are a growing number of manufacturing, construction, energy, and other trade jobs that are definitely not reserved for bachelor's degree holders.
In fact, not only are those with higher education not taking manufacturing, construction, and energy jobs, they can't, according to the "A Better Measure of Skills Gap" study by non-profit ACT (American College Testing). ACT assessed examinees on three WorkKeys® dimensions: Applied Mathematics, Reading for Information, and Locating Information (WorkKeys® is ACT's proprietary assessment system for job skills that facilitates employers' ability to "select, hire, train, develop, and retain a high-performance workforce").
What they found was that when it came to targeted manufacturing, construction, and energy jobs, those with less education tended to have the edge over those with a bachelor's degree or higher.
The take-away: There's a skills gap, or lack of qualified applicants, when it comes to these industries. Robyn Saunders, career coach at the New York Public Library, agrees.
"There are definitely opportunities out there in the trades and the vocations, but many job seekers lack the skills and credentials to match them," says Saunders. "If you're looking for this kind of work, you've got to ask yourself, 'What am I willing to do to get this position?'"
Next step: Click to Find the Right Trade/Vocational Program.
Saunders contends that it's those who are willing to get the preparation, do apprenticeships, and adapt to new technologies who have the edge.
O*Net OnLine, a partner of the American Job Center network, has identified certain jobs as "Bright Outlook" occupations. These are jobs that "are expected to grow rapidly in the next several years, will have large numbers of job openings, or are new and emerging occupations."
Keep reading to learn more about four bright outlook trade careers that you don't need a bachelor's degree to pursue.

Career #1: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

Find Degree Programs Number of jobs being added from 2012 to 2022: 55,900*
Ever wonder what your life might be like without modern conveniences like heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration? That should give you an idea of just how important heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) mechanics and installers are, and how prized their services are to customers.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, HVACR mechanics and installers install, repair, inspect and maintain HVACR systems, connect systems to air ducts, fuel lines, water supply lines, or other components, install electrical wiring, and repair or replace defective or worn parts. They may also make recommendations regarding energy efficiency for HVACR systems.
Why It's a Bright Outlook Career: Pursuing a career in HVACR repair or installation makes for a smart choice in today's market because it's a robust field when it comes to job opportunities right now, according to Roy Cohen, of CareercoachNY.com, a website that offers services such as defining career direction and strategy, preparing a resume, and interview prep.
Cohen says that HVACR installation and repair "might not be as clean as other options, but as the population gets larger and people are living longer, we're going to need these skilled workers to heat, cool, and handle food supply in homes, offices, schools, and public places."
Another factor driving growth here, according to Cohen, is the increasing concern over the environmental implications of heating and cooling. "The demand is for environmentally-responsible methods of supply, so a lot of development and growth will continue in this field."
Next step: Click to Find the Right HVACR Program.
How to Prepare: As HVACR systems become increasingly complex, the Department of Labor says that employers might prefer to hire candidates that have apprenticeships or post-secondary education. A growing number of these professionals get instruction from technical, trade, or community college programs in heating and cooling that could lead to a certificate or associate's degree. Some states may also require professional licensing, says the Department.

Career #2: Welder

Find Degree Programs Number of jobs being added from 2012 to 2022: 20,800*
From cars and planes to bridges and pipes - and everything in between - somebody needs to build these big structures and pieces of machinery by joining pieces of metal together properly. And that somebody is a welder.
A day in the life of a welder could include reading blueprints or sketches, calculating dimensions to be welded, and then using torches and machinery to join metal parts together, says the U.S. Department of Labor. Welders also polish metal surfaces and perform maintenance on their equipment.
Why It's a Bright Outlook Career: For Cohen, welding is a growth field that's seeing a spike due to the housing market rebounding in the wake of the recession. "With the way that construction and real estate have picked up in a significant way recently, again, we're going to need welders to restore old structures and build new ones."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Welding Program.
How to Prepare: Per the Department of Labor, requirements for welders could be as little as a few weeks of technical education, on-the-job training, or several years of technical education together with on-the-job training. The Department adds that welders can get formal education in high school technical education courses and postsecondary institutions.

Career #3: Construction Manager

Find Degree Programs Number of jobs being added from 2012 to 2022: 78,200*
If you've got problem-solving and leadership abilities and you're ready to take your construction knowledge and skills to the next level, there may never be a better time to pursue a career as a construction manager.
The U.S. Department of Labor tells us that construction managers, also known as general contractors, are typically responsible for tasks like planning budgets, explaining contracts and technical information to various professionals, collaborating with engineers, construction specialists, and subcontractors, and making sure all building and safety codes are adhered to.
Why It's a Bright Outlook Career: According to Cohen, the turnaround in the real estate market is again driving a need for qualified construction managers, which makes this position a top vocational career. "New construction means there will be a need for strong leaders to oversee the process of building," he says. He adds that leadership jobs such as this can also mean room for growth and higher salaries.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Construction Management Program.
How to Prepare: The Department of Labor tells us that some may qualify for construction manager positions with a high school diploma and by working many years in a construction trade, although most of these will qualify as self-employed general contractors. For smaller projects, an associate's degree plus work experience is typical. For larger construction firms, however, the Department points out that it is increasingly important for these professionals to have a bachelor's degree in construction management, construction science, engineering, or architecture.

Career #4: Automotive Service Technician or Mechanic

Find Degree Programs Number of jobs being added from 2012 to 2022: 60,400*
If you know your car like the back of your hand and have a great feel for machines and tools, a career as an automotive service technician or mechanic may be worth pursuing. Duties for these workers include, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, testing car parts and systems, identifying mechanical problems, fixing worn parts or installing new ones, and performing basic car care processes, including oil changes, tune ups and tire rotations.
Why It's a Bright Outlook Career: According to Saunders, this trade is in no danger of dying anytime soon, as people aren't driving any less these days, and as cars get more use, technicians will be around to keep them running. But that doesn't mean auto repair isn't evolving. "Grease monkey work these days requires way more than meets the eye," says Saunders. "The skill set involved is very analytical - you have to have the experience and education to diagnose a problem and then be able to solve it. There are all sorts of systems involved here, so mechanics have to have electrical knowledge, engine knowledge, and even be in tune with newer technologies like satellite radio, navigation, and so on."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Automotive Program.
How to Prepare: Although a high school diploma or the equivalent is usually the minimum requirement, according to the Department of Labor, the best prep for pursuing an entry-level position in auto service technology is through completing a vocational or postsecondary program. Some service techs, says the Department, earn an associate's degree, which might include coursework in subjects like math, computers, and auto repair. The Department also says industry certification is typically required once a candidate is hired, and most must complete on-the-job training.

8 High-Demand Jobs That Require Little Schooling

Source: Yahoo

These jobs are high on demand but short on educational requirements.

By Terri Williams

When choosing a career, you want to be sure that it's not one that will disappear in a few years. You probably also don't want to spend an eternity in school.
Fortunately, there are jobs out there that meet both criteria. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, there are quite a few with significant growth potential that only require an associate's degree or less.
Keep reading to discover which jobs are both high in demand and low on educational requirements.

Career #1: Web Developers

Find Degree Programs When you're surfing a website, do you ever think about who made it look the way it does?
Web developers handle every aspect of website design, including creating the site and adding graphics, video, and audio, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. They also monitor the site's performance and test it for problems.
More importantly, the Department of Labor tells us that web designer jobs are projected to increase by 20 percent from 2012 through 2022.
Why They're In Demand: The explosion of smartphones, tablets, and similar devices may play a big part in why this job is growing so rapidly. "As e-commerce and e-training expand, the need for more experienced web designers and developers will increase. Companies are expanding their online presence, and more web designers are needed to build the designs for mobile devices," says Elaine Reeder, computer graphics chair at Camden County College.
Erik Fretheim, director of the technology programs at City University of Seattle agrees. "The need for quick access to data and services is creating a massive demand for web developers."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Web Developer Program.
How to Prepare: You may be able to pursue a career as a web developer much quicker than you think. Web developers typically need an associate's degree in web design or a related field, according to the Department. However, some may have anything from a high school diploma to a bachelor's degree.

Career #2: Pharmacy Technicians

Find Degree Programs If you've ever waited in line at the drugstore, you know there's no shortage of things for the people behind the pharmaceutical counter to do. If you'd like to get in on that action, but don't want to have to sit in a classroom for years in pharmacy school to do it, consider pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, these workers help licensed pharmacists by measuring, packaging and labeling prescriptions, organizing inventory, and taking and computerizing customer information.
Concerned it may be too crowded behind that counter already? You'll be happy to know that the Department of Labor projects a 20 percent increase in jobs for pharmacy technicians from 2012 to 2022.
Why They're In Demand: This job is growing much faster than others thanks to the aging population, which will require more prescription drugs to keep them well, says Chris Delaney, a career and interview coach and author of "The 73 Rules of Influencing the Interview."
"Nearly 70 percent of Americans are on at least one prescription drug, and more than half take two, according to Mayo Clinic and Olmsted Medical Center researchers," says Nikki Wallace Wilson, a human resources professional and life coach. "Pharmacy technicians are needed to help deliver medicine in a timely fashion."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Pharmacy Technician Program.
How to Prepare: Good news if you're interested in this growing field: You'll need far less education than pharmacists to pursue a career as a pharmacy technician. According to the Department, a career as a pharmacy technician generally requires a high school diploma or the equivalent, and pharmacy technicians typically receive on-the-job training. Others join this occupation after completing a postsecondary education program in pharmacy technology, which may lead to a certificate or an associate's degree.

Career #3: Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

Find Degree Programs Being able to control temperature may be one of the most important aspects of modern civilization. Heaters keep us warm in the winter, while air conditioners keep us cool in the summer, and of course, refrigeration means we can make sure our stores of food stay fresh. If you have mechanical aptitude, you might be able to pursue a career as one of these vital contributors to society.
HVACR technicians are responsible for working on the heating, ventilation, cooling and refrigeration systems that regulate air quality and temperature, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. They typically travel to work sites, repair/replace parts as necessary, make recommendations to improve energy efficiency of HVACR systems, and install, repair, inspect and maintain HVACR systems.
If you've ever had your air conditioner go out on a 90 degree summer day, it probably won't surprise you to learn that the Department of Labor projects this job to grow 21 percent from 2012 to 2022.
Why They're In Demand: "Every building and home has an HVAC system and that means there is a huge demand for these workers," says Wilson. "These jobs can never be outsourced and as we see the necessity for more green efficiency units (due to global warming issues), the jobs will continue to increase and be in high demand."
And Delaney adds, "All air conditioning units in the workplace have to, by law, be regularly tested and maintained, which increases the demand for qualified technicians." In addition, Delaney says that most HVAC systems need to be replaced every 10-15 years, "so HVAC technicians are always needed to replace systems at the end of their useful lifespan."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Program.
How to Prepare: This is a job where skills and experience tend to be valued over higher education. According to Stephen Yurek, president of the Air-conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute, and CEO and chairman of the HVACR Workforce Development Foundation, HVAC careers "are supported by a range of education levels, from high school or technical school, to graduate school. It is truly an industry that offers vast potential."
The Department tells us that employers generally prefer applicants who have either completed an apprenticeship, or have postsecondary education such as a certificate or associate's degree program in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration. State or local licensure may also be required.

Career #4: Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

Find Degree Programs As a diagnostic medical sonographer, you could play a major role in caring for people's health, no med school required. Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound equipment to take and analyze images and tests, reports the U.S. Department of Labor.
And don't think that just because you may never have heard of this career, it's not in demand. Quite the opposite: From 2012 through 2022, jobs for diagnostic medical sonographers are expected to grow by a whopping 46 percent, as per Department of Labor projections.
Why They're In Demand: It's all about the specialized skill set: "Employers are looking for highly-skilled professionals who can use specialized equipment to create images of structures inside the human body," says Catherine Ford, academic department chair of the medical imaging department at Owens Community College.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Program.
How to Prepare: While you don't need medical school or even a bachelor's degree, you do need some type of formal education. According to the Department, these sonographers need an associate's degree or certificate. Many employers will also require professional certification, says the Department.

Career #5: Construction Managers

Find Degree Programs Those buildings you see everywhere you go don't go up by themselves. Construction management requires highly-skilled individuals who know the ins and outs of how to effectively put together the structures we see all around us. If you've got construction experience, you may want to consider taking it to the next level and pursuing a career as a construction manager.
Construction managers, also called general contractors, are responsible for supervising the building of all kinds of structures, from commercial to residential to industrial, not to mention roads and bridges, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
If you think you have the knowledge and experience for construction management, it may interest you to know this job is growing. According to the Department of Labor, employment is projected to grow by 16 percent from 2012 to 2022.
Why They're In Demand: "This is projected to be a growth position over the next 5-10 years due to a boom in large commercial projects," says Delaney. "Managers are required to schedule and coordinate these entire projects, working closely with architects, surveyors, and suppliers to ensure the successful progression of each phase of the construction venture." 
Wilson agrees and adds, "With the economy showing signs of improvement, commercial buildings, strip malls, and new homes are beginning to pop up in every city and town across America." As a result, she says that there is a constant need for capable workers who are efficient and dependable.  "It's very possible to move up the ranks fairly quickly going from a worker to supervisor and beyond, even without a college degree."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Construction Management Program.
How to Prepare: Construction experience is key here. The Department says that an associate's degree and work experience is typical for construction managers of smaller projects. However, they note that large construction firms are increasingly preferring candidates with a bachelor's degree.

Career #6: Bookkeeping, Accounting and Auditing Clerks

Find Degree Programs You don't need a bachelor's degree in accounting to pursue your love of numbers. With an associate's degree or less, you could soon be on your way to a new career.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks handle and record cash, checks, and vouchers. They also post financial transactions in computer software and prepare financial reports.
But if you're interested in this field, you probably want the numbers. Here you go. The Department of Labor projects an 11 percent growth rate from 2012 through 2022 for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks. That adds up to over 200,000 jobs.
Why They're In Demand: "The financial sector is massive and businesses of all sizes require the skills and knowledge that bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks possess. As the economy grows, so does the demand for these positions," says Delaney.
Steve Rudnick, graduate faculty member at New England College of Business and Finance, adds, "Employees with accounting, auditing, and bookkeeping skills are in high demand by employers due to the increased complexity and requirements of compliance and regulation."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Accounting Program.
How to Prepare: Most bookkeeping, accounting, or auditing clerks will need at least a high school diploma, says the Department, which adds that postsecondary education, especially coursework in accounting, is preferred by some employers.

Career #7: Paralegals

Find Degree Programs Love the law but don't love the idea of sitting in class forever or paying for years of law school? Consider pursuing a career as a paralegal.
Paralegals conduct research, draft legal documents and maintain and organize documents, says the U.S. Department of Labor. They also review trial transcripts and schedule interviews and meetings with clients and witnesses.
Even better, employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow by 17 percent from 2012 to 2022, says the Department of Labor.
Why They're In Demand: According to Delaney, "Customers are demanding cheaper and more effective legal services. And to save on overhead costs, employers are recruiting more paralegals to support a smaller team of lawyers."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Paralegal Program.
How to Prepare: An associate's degree may be all you need to enter the exciting world of law, as most paralegals have an associate's degree in paralegal studies. Another possibility is a certificate in paralegal studies along with a bachelor's degree in another field, according to the Department.

Career #8: Dental Hygienists

Find Degree Programs Pursuing a career as a dentist isn't the only option if you want to work in the field of oral health. Consider a dental hygiene program - which doesn't require dental school.
Dental hygienists examine for gingivitis and other types of oral diseases, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. They may also remove stains, tartar and plaque from teeth, and instruct patients in good oral hygiene practices.
Everyone needs to take care of their teeth, and that's reflected in the job growth statistics for dental hygienists. The Department of Labor expects demand for dental hygienists to increase by an impressive 33 percent from 2012 through 2022.
Why They're In Demand: You don't generally see a dental practice without a dental hygienist, and there's a good reason for that.
As Wilson explains, dental hygienists are a huge asset to dentists. "[Dental hygienists] can perform many of the same duties as dentists, but at a fraction of the cost. As a result, dentists can afford to take on more patients per hour," Wilson says.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Dental Hygienist Program.
How to Prepare: Forget about dental school. According to the Department, dental hygienists usually only need an associate's degree in dental hygiene. State licensure is also a requirement.