Degrees for People Who Are Over Going to Class

Source: Yahoo

These online degrees are perfect for those who prefer to learn alone.

By Terri Williams

Have you always hated school because of unpleasant commutes, bad-tasting cafeteria food and germ-filled classrooms? Do you have bad memories of oversleeping the day of an exam, or having to attend class when you were sick?
Well, online learning may be a solution for those who have no patience for attending class in person. In fact, online degrees can be ideal for people who prefer sitting behind the keyboard to sitting in class, hate burning fuel to drive to school, and dislike searching for parking spaces and purchasing parking permits, according to Dani Babb, an online education expert and founder of online education service provider TheBabbGroup.com.
Babb also says that online learning provides diversity and an opportunity for students to work at their own pace.
Of course, online education is not for everyone, and some students may perform better with a more rigid schedule and face-to-face interaction. If you prefer to learn alone, and you do better when you're left to your own devices, you may wish to consider one of the following six online degrees.

Online Degree #1: Bachelor's in Finance

Find Degree Programs If you're more comfortable around money than people, you may want to consider parlaying your love for numbers into earning an online bachelor's degree in finance.
Typical courses include accounting and statistics for financial analysis, financial markets and institutions, and analysis of financial statements, according to the College Board, a non-profit that links students to opportunity and success in college.
Why It's Better if You're Over Class: "Many finance classes are software-based," says Curt Bonk, a professor of instructional systems technology at Indiana University, who is also the author of "The World is Open: How Web Technology is Revolutionizing Education," and e-Book "Adding Some TEC-VARIETY: 100+ Activities for Motivating and Retaining Learners Online."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Finance Program.
Bonk adds, "Since the information can be learned remotely, this degree is appealing to people who don't want to commute to a classroom."

Potential Career*	Median Annual Salary**
Personal Financial Advisor	$75,320
Financial Analyst	$78,380

Online Degree #2: Bachelor's in Graphic Design

Find Degree Programs If you're a person with an eye for creativity, who is more likely to spend classroom time staring out the window looking for interesting visual ideas than listening to a droning professor, consider pursuing an online bachelor's degree in graphic design.
According to the College Board, courses in graphic design may include production design, Photoshop for designers, and the history of graphic design.
Why It's Better If You're Over Class: "The format of graphic design courses makes this degree a good online choice, according to Joe Chapman, director of student services at Arizona State University Online. "Students learn web development and interactive technologies, computer illustration and digital publishing, photography for online delivery and other technologies relevant to the cross-media nature of the graphic information industry."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Graphic Design Program.
Additionally, the nature of a traditional graphic design classroom is that the teacher can only go about as fast as the slowest student, which could get boring in a hurry if you're a quick study. "Taking an online graphic design class may allow you to work at your own pace," says Babb.

Potential Career*	Median Annual Salary**
Graphic Designer	$44,830
Art Director	$83,000

Online Degree #3: Bachelor's in Computer Science

Find Degree Programs If computers are your thing, you're already engaged with the most important online learning tool you could need. Instead of just using a computer as an aid to learning, you could make it the focus of your education by pursuing an online bachelor's degree in computer science.
The College Board lists artificial intelligence, data structures and algorithms, and software engineering as possible classes you may take along the way.
Why It's Better If You're Over Class: "An online bachelor’s degree in computer science provides students with the expertise to design, select, implement and administer computer-based information solutions,” says Chapman.
Chapman also points out that there is an emphasis in online programs on creating web applications and websites, adding, "These activities can be performed at home just as well as they can in a classroom setting."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Computer Science Program.
And while you may think that online computer science students are simply swapping long periods of time sitting in front of a teacher for long periods of time sitting in front of their computers, Babb points out, "With an online degree, you don't have to sit on a hard classroom chair for several hours. You can work from the comfort of your living room or some other cushy location."

Potential Career*	Median Annual Salary**
Computer Programmer	$76,140
Software Developer, Applications	$92,660

Online Degree #4: Bachelor's in Engineering

Find Degree Programs A solid background in math and science, combined with a strong desire to design solutions to small and large problems may serve you well outside the classroom setting if you pursue an online bachelor's degree in engineering.
The College Board lists scientific visualization, geology and geophysics for engineers, and numerical methods for scientists and engineers as possible classes.
Why It's Better If You're Over Class: "This degree integrates the fundamentals with practical real-world experience in an online environment," says Chapman. "Students take a variety of fundamental courses along with specialty courses in analog and digital circuits, electromagnetic fields, microprocessors, communications networks, solid-state electronics and electric power and energy systems. Although there are labs, most of the time, students are learning remotely."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Engineering Program.
And if you need to contact your engineering instructor, Babb says you don't have to wait days on end for the weekly preset office visitation times. "Most professors are required to check email at least 24 to 36 hours, and most of us check our email all day long." Babb says that online professors take questions via Twitter, Facebook, and text message also.

Potential Career*	Median Annual Salary**
Industrial Engineer	$80,300
Materials Engineer	$87,330

Online Degree #5: Master's in Business Administration

Find Degree Programs If you like the idea of putting business management skills to work for you, but don't really see that happening on campus, consider pursuing an online master's in business administration (MBA).
Students tackle a variety of subjects, including finance, accounting, organizational behavior, economics, and management, according to the Princeton Review, which helps college-bound and graduate school-bound students achieve higher-education goals with test-preparation services, online resources, admissions resources, and tutoring.
Why It's Better If You're Over Class: "Many people who pursue an MBA online are already in the workforce and don't have a lot of time to commute to class," says Bonk. "An MBA involves business theory courses, which can be learned online, as opposed to degrees with labs or other types of course requirements that would necessitate being on campus."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Business Administration Program.
And while many MBA students "may be sitting in a classroom with students from their hometown with little diversity and the same faces every day, that won't happen online," says Babb. "You're likely to be working with students from all over the country and even all over the world, gaining real world experience."

Potential Career*	Median Annual Salary**
Human Resources Managers	$100,800
Computer and Information Systems Manager	$123,950

Online Degree #6: Master's in Education Administration

Find Degree Programs If you'd rather be organizing the classes one day than sitting in them, an online master's degree in education administration might be the one for you to pursue.
 In this major, you may learn international perspectives on education, the basics of organizational change, and the fundamentals of management, according to the Princeton Review.
Why It's Better If You're Over Class: Education administration students are typically full-time teachers looking to advance their career, but they don't want to turn around and sit in a classroom all night after teaching classes all day, says Meredith Toth, assistant division director of online programs in the division of educational leadership and innovation at Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Online Education Administration Program.
"Taking classes online provides professionals the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills while also working full-time in their current position," says Toth.

Jobs That May Be Slipping Away - And Those That Are Here To Stay

Source: Yahoo

Is your job safe from computerization? Keep reading to find out...

By Jennifer Berry

According to a 2013 Oxford study entitled "The Future of Employment: How Susceptible Are Jobs To Computerisation," 47 percent of total U.S. unemployment could see job loss or a decrease in employment due to technological advancements. What's a worker to do?
"Job seekers should follow the wisdom of hockey great Wayne Gretzky who said, 'I skate to where the puck will be, not where it is,'" says Steve Langerud, a workplace consultant and managing partner of career guidance organization Steve Langerud & Associates, LLC in Grinnell, Iowa.
The key lies in figuring out which jobs are going away and which jobs are growing - and then preparing to pursue what's poised to thrive.
If you're worried that there's no way to protect yourself from the inevitable loss of your livelihood to automation, there's good news. The Oxford study also found that the more education you have, the less likely it is that your job will be computerized.
With that in mind, we've highlighted six jobs that may be slipping away according to the study, along with six high-growth alternatives to consider pursuing.

Career That's Slipping Away #1Postal Service Clerks

Likelihood of Computerization: 95 percent
Before email and online postage sites, most people couldn't communicate without these workers. Postal service clerks are the people who sell money orders, stamps, envelopes, and other mailing-related products, along with calculating postage and answering postal questions, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Bleak Outlook Factor: As automated bill pay and email use increases, the subsequent decline in first-class mail volume will adversely affect employment, says the Department of Labor. Eric Miranda, a career counselor at CollegeAdmissionsReview.com, agrees.
"The volume of mail going through the postal system has decreased over the years with the increased use of email," says Miranda, "That's not going to change. More people are emailing documents - and mailing letters less."
This may be why employment of postal service clerks is projected to decline 32 percent from 2012 to 2022, representing a loss of 139,000 jobs.*

Career That's Here To Stay #1Human Resources Managers

Find Programs Likelihood of Computerization: 0.55 percent
The unsung heroes of virtually any company with more than a handful of employees, human resources managers coordinate administrative functions for an organization. They interview and hire staff, consult with top executives, and serve as a link between management and the workers, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Brighter Outlook Factor: One thing a computer can't replace is human interaction, and human resources managers' jobs are all about human interaction. "While technology will assist HR managers in doing their jobs, I don't see a total elimination of HR staff happening anytime soon," says Amanda Haddaway, career expert and author of "Destination Real World: Success after Graduation."
"As compliance and employment law have taken center stage, there's still a need for human interpretation and application that a computer just simply isn't capable of yet."
The statistics seem to confirm this. Employment of human resources managers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2012 to 2022, adding 13,600 new jobs.*
Next step: Click to Find the Right Human Resources Program.
Preparing For This Career: Interested in this field? According to the Department of Labor, you'll usually need a bachelor's degree in human resources or business administration, although an alternative is to complete a bachelor's in a different field and take courses in subjects related to human resources like organizational development, industrial psychology, or labor or industrial relations.
The Department also notes that experienced individuals with backgrounds in areas such as business management, finance, information technology, and education can fill some positions, and that for higher level jobs, a master's degree in labor relations, human resources, or a Master of Business Administration degree are sometimes required.

Career That's Slipping Away #2Motion Picture Projectionists

Likelihood of Computerization: 97 percent
You've sat in a dark room with them many times, even if you've never seen them... Motion picture projectionists are responsible for the setting up and operation of motion picture projection equipment and related sound reproduction equipment, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
Bleak Outlook Factor: At the dawn of the industry, motion pictures were massive reels of film that needed to be hand-loaded into projectors. But with the advancement of technology, more and more movie houses are turning to digital projectors, which don't require the same kind of labor from a projectionist.
"Digital formatting is quickly replacing film, reducing the need for projectionists," says Peter Berner, founder and president of Pilot Workplace Advisors, a specialty human resources development firm. "Even film projection is easily programmed and delivered without the need for human attendants. In addition, more and more people are opting to receive motion picture content on their personal digital equipment, further shrinking the economic viability of the big screen experience."
These advances in viewing technology are expected to continue to hurt this field, which had already dwindled down to a mere 7,630 workers according to May 2013 data. Employment of these workers is expected to decline by 26.5 percent from 2012 to 2022, a loss of 2,100 jobs.*

Career That's Here To Stay #2Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Find Programs Likelihood of Computerization: 3 percent
Network and computer systems administrators install an organization's computer systems, networks, and other data communication systems, as well as providing organization and support, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Brighter Outlook Factor: While we might rely on computers to handle more and more of our job responsibilities, we will need people to oversee those computers. This is where the network and computer systems administrators come into play, according to Patrick O'Rourke, who is responsible for talent acquisition and development at IT Consulting firm SWC Technology Partners, Inc.
"I believe that network and computer systems administrators will continue to be the backbone of IT operations, because the human element of troubleshooting, escalating, and communicating these issues on the fly cannot be fully automated," says O'Rourke, "The need for qualified professionals that draw upon experiences and consider the human element of IT remains a top priority when assessing an organization's overall IT health."
That need for the human element may be one of the reasons that this career is projected to enjoy 42,900 new jobs, representing growth of 12 percent from 2012 to 2022.*
Next step: Click to Find the Right Computer Science Program.
Preparing For This Career: If you're interested in prepping to pursue this career, consider earning your bachelor's degree in a field related to computer or information science, which is what most employers require for this job, according to the Department.
The Department does say that some employers require only a postsecondary certificate, and a degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering is usually acceptable too.

Career That's Slipping Away #3Embalmers

Likelihood of Computerization: 54 percent
An embalmer is probably the last person you want to meet, and he might end up being just that. Embalmers are the professionals who prepare human remains for burial, making sure to conform with legal requirements, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Bleak Outlook Factor: Considering the fact that death is a part of every life, you might not think the need for embalmers would decrease over time. However, both the Oxford study and the Department of Labor numbers suggest decreasing opportunities for this field, and it's only partly due to technological advancements.
It may also be people's preference for cremation that is leading to the anticipated loss of jobs for embalmers. "While technology is not the main cause of a diminishing need for embalmers, societal trends certainly are," says Berner. "More and more people are opting for cremation as an acceptable, if not preferred, form of interment."
Not even an embalmer can make this profession look good. It's already down to 4,390 workers according to May 2013 data, with an anticipated loss of 800 jobs, a 15 percent drop, from 2012 to 2022.*

Career That's Here To Stay #3Registered Nurses

Find Programs Likelihood of Computerization: 0.9 percent
Who doesn't feel all warm at the sight of a caring nurse? Registered nurses (RNs) care for patients, consult with doctors, and provide emotional support and advice to patients and to their family members, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
Brighter Outlook Factor: Considering the amount of person-to-person interaction, and the emotional support they offer to both patients and their families, RNs should be around for a long time to come.
"There's no substitute for the power of touch, the ability to listen, and even the capability of sharing real tears (of joy or sorrow)," says Sandra Davis, an RN with MJHS Hospice and Palliative Care, which cares for pediatric and adult patients in NYC. "Nursing is far more than medical check-ups or taking temperatures and blood work. It's conversation, guidance, interacting with family members and even providing (or helping someone access) social, emotional, spiritual, psychological support. This is particularly important for nurses who provide care in patients' homes."
It seems we need that support more than ever. Registered nurses are projected to add a whopping 526,800 positions, growing 19 percent, from 2012 to 2022.*
Next step: Click to Find the Right Registered Nursing Program.
Preparing For This Career: If you're interested in preparing to pursue this career, the three usual education paths are an associate's degree or bachelor's of science degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program, the Department of Labor states.

Career That's Slipping Away #4Locomotive Engineers

Likelihood of Computerization: 96 percent
Remember playing with toy trains as a kid? These kids never outgrew it. Locomotive engineers drive the locomotives that transport passengers or freight. They interpret the railroad rules and regulations and read electronic and manual train orders and signals. The locomotives these engineers drive may be electric, steam, diesel electric or gas-turbine-electric, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Bleak Outlook Factor: While many people have a fascination with trains, the opportunities to work as a locomotive engineer could be fading over the next several decades - partly because of advancements in technology.
"Jobs with repetitive tasks that are done the same way over and over are going away, and that could extend to the job of the locomotive engineer," says David Harder, founder of Inspired Work, Inc., whose mission is to find innovative solutions to career problems. "We will see automation taking over anything that can be replicated in a safe manner."
But, he stresses, "safe" is the key. "Until artificial intelligence reaches the point where it can anticipate crises and respond better than a well-trained human being, I don't see locomotive engineers being completely replaced."
Maybe not completely replaced, but they're disappearing nonetheless. Only 36,860 locomotive engineers remain according to May 2013 data, and the future projection is for a four percent drop in employment of locomotive engineers from 2012 to 2022, which translates into a loss of 1,500 jobs.*

Career That's Here To Stay #4Computer Systems Analysts

Find Programs Likelihood of Computerization: 0.65 percent
Your company's computer efficiency is probably in the hands of one of these workers. Computer systems analysts study an organization's existing computer systems and procedures and figure out what information systems solutions will help the organization to operate more effectively and efficiently, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Brighter Outlook Factor: Computer systems analysts do what a computer can't do - employ human observation and reasoning to improve the way an organization uses technology to meet their goals. "Not many people have the technical skills and interpersonal skills needed for this type of work," says Stuart Mease, director of career advancement and employer relations at the Virginal Tech Pamplin College of Business and author of "The Perfect Job Seeker."
According to Mease, computer systems analysts provide businesses with crucial information on how technology can aid employees to better handle their workload. "These people are critical moving forward," he adds. So critical, in fact, that employment of computer systems analysts is expected to grow 25 percent from 2012 to 2022, adding 127,700 new jobs.*
Next step: Click to Find the Right IT & Information Systems Program.
Preparing For This Career: To prepare to pursue a career in this field, a bachelor's degree in a computer or information science field is common, although it's not always a requirement, says the Department. Some firms may hire an analyst with a business or liberal arts degree along with skills in information technology or computer programming, the Department says.
In addition, some employers do prefer applicants with a master of business administration with a concentration in information systems, or, for jobs that are more technically complex, a master's degree in computer science may be the more appropriate degree.

Career That's Slipping Away #5Printing Press Operators

Likelihood of Computerization: 83 percent
Those of us old enough to remember when people actually read more books than computer screens should appreciate the printing press operator. Printing press operators set up and operate all kinds of printing machines, including short-run offset printing presses, digital, gravure, letterpress, flexographic, and lithographic machines, the U.S. Department of Labor explains.
Bleak Outlook Factor: Due to advances in digital technology, more and more of what we read exists online, and that is having an impact on printing press operators. "The advent of digital media has demolished the need for printed material," says Berner. "The struggles of the newspaper industry alone demonstrate the diminishing need for press operators." But jobs are even being lost at successful printing houses, he adds. "Many of the remaining jobs in the print industry are rapidly being eliminated by more sophisticated equipment that is controlled by computerized technology."
The numbers bear out Berner's analysis, with the number of opportunities for printing press operators expected to drop 3.9 percent from 2012 to 2022 - which means a loss of about 7,000 jobs.*

Career That's Here To Stay #5Petroleum Engineers

Find Programs Likelihood of Computerization: 16 percent
Petroleum engineers are on the front lines of the energy battle. They figure out how to extract oil and gas from deposits below the earth's surface or from older wells, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
Brighter Outlook Factor: As we try to become more environmentally conscious, we still rely heavily on the old ways of harnessing power. "Despite worldwide efforts to utilize alternative energy, fossil fuel demand will continue to rise as supplies become harder to locate and extract," says Berner.
"Technology will certainly play an increasing role in the production of petroleum products, but it will function as a tool of engineers, enhancing their capabilities; not as a substitute for the fundamental engineering expertise needed for success in the industry."
Our continued reliance on fossil fuels may be one of the reasons that it is projected that we can expect employment of petroleum engineers to jump 26 percent from 2012 to 2022, adding 9,800 new jobs.*
Next step: Click to Find the Right Engineering Program.
Preparing For This Career: To pursue a career in this field, you must have a bachelor's degree in engineering - preferably in petroleum engineering - to get started, according to the Department of Labor. A bachelor's in chemical engineering or mechanical engineering may be sufficient as well, notes the Department.

Career That's Slipping Away #6Watch Repairers

Likelihood of Computerization: 99 percent
If you've heard the expression "runs like clockwork," you should have an idea what people in this profession are all about. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, watch repairers repair, clean, and adjust mechanisms of all sorts of timing instruments, including watches and clocks.
Bleak Outlook Factor: Watch repair is a time-honored tradition, but as people rely more on devices like computers or mobile phones for the time we might see this profession shrink.
"It's become increasingly common for people to check their phones for the time," says Miranda, although he doesn't expect to see the end of watches any time soon. "People will still buy and wear watches - but more so now as jewelry. If someone is interested in working in watch repair, they'd be wise to combine that skill with jewelry making or jewelry repair," he suggests.
Time is almost up for this once-thriving profession. Only 100 new jobs in this career are projected from 2012-2022, a growth rate of 2 percent.*

Career That's Here To Stay #6Securities, Commodities and Financial Services Sales Agents

Find Programs Likelihood of Computerization: 16 percent
These are the big money men. Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents sell securities to individuals, conduct trades, and advise companies in search of investors, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Brighter Outlook Factor: As good as computers are at some things, the financial sector of our economy still relies on people to connect buyers and sellers in financial market. "Having 15 years of financial service experience in both banking and the securities industries, I can confidentially say that financial services sales agents are here to stay," says Anthony Pili, vice-president and director of strategic planning for Greater Hudson Bank.
And while he admits that the industry has transferred some low-value tasks to computers (like opening a bank account), he underlines the importance of having a human being present to handle more complicated transactions. "The decision makers that control the large accounts will always need a relationship with someone that can always be reached, trusted and flexible."
Despite the recent financial meltdown, employment for securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents is expected to grow, with 39,700 new jobs projected, translating to growth of 11 percent from 2012 to 2022.*
Next step: Click to Find the Right Finance Program.
Preparing For This Career: If you're interested in setting out on this career path, the Department of Labor says a bachelor's degree is required for entry-level positions. Studies in business, economics, accounting, or finance are important, particularly for larger firms. The Department also notes that a master's degree in business administration (MBA) is often required for high-level securities industry positions.

5 High-Paying Jobs You Can Pursue With a High School Diploma

Source: Yahoo

Think you need a college degree to get your foot in the door of a job with high-pay potential? Think again.

By Andrea Duchon

Even though the economy has started to make an upturn, there are still plenty of people left without jobs. Are you one of the people who has tried searching for a well-paying job only to come up empty handed because you don't have a college degree?
If so, we're here to offer up some good news. It is possible to score a high-paying job, even if you've never set foot in a college classroom. It may not be easy. And it may require some prior work experience. After all, you've still got to do something to distinguish yourself from the pack. But the opportunities are out there.
Keep reading to learn more about jobs with average salaries nearing $60,000 per year (that's well over the national average) that could be pursued with just a diploma.

Career #1: Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers

Find Degree Programs

Median
Annual Salary*

$56,130

Top 10% of
Earners*

>$90,700

Bottom 10% of Earners*

<$32,670

You know that police officers keep the peace and hand out the occasional ticket. But according to the U.S. Department of Labor, police officers and sheriff's patrol officers also do things like obtain warrants, arrest suspects, prepare cases and testify in court.
High-Pay Factors: "The lengthy rigorous training programs at the academy and in the field prepare officers for a high-risk, high-reward career that is deserving of salaries that compete with college graduates in the private sector," says retired Illinois State Police Colonel Mike Snyders.
How to Get Your Foot in the Door: You'll need that high school diploma, of course, and the department you're applying to will likely want you to complete their agency police academy program, says the Department of Labor. Police officers must be U.S. citizens, usually be at least 21 years old and meet certain physical qualifications. Candidates can be asked to take drug tests or lie detector tests, and may be disqualified if they have a felony conviction.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Police and Law Enforcement Program.
The Department reports that some police departments require some college coursework or a degree. It's also important to note that if you want to pursue any work with federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI or the Secret Service, you'll need a bachelor's degree and/or related work experience. The Department notes that many colleges, universities, and junior colleges offer law enforcement and criminal justice programs.

Career #2: Real Estate Brokers

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Median
Annual Salary*

$59,580

Top 10% of
Earners*

>$187,050

Bottom 10% of Earners*

<$24,260

Real estate brokers assist clients in buying, selling, and renting properties. They're also responsible for comparing properties to determine a competitive market price, advising their clients on prices and mortgages, and preparing documents like purchase agreements and deeds, says the U.S. Department of Labor.
High-Pay Factors: The real estate field is ripe with opportunity, according to Jake Cain, licensed real estate agent and the creator of employedteenagers.com, a site focused on helping young people find work.
Of course, it's all about how hard you work and the value that you create for others. "You have to be a good relationship builder and willing to put in hard work to make personal connections with various types of people. If you do those things well, then you can make a significant income because you are paid on commission, not based on time," he says.
How to Get Your Foot in the Door: On top of that high school diploma, you must be licensed in all states (and the District of Columbia) to work as a real estate broker, says the Department of Labor. And while the requirements for licensing vary by state, you typically must be at least 18 years old, complete a number of real estate courses, and pass an exam. To obtain your broker's license, you'll usually need one to three years of licensed sales agent experience. You may also be required to pass a background check in some states, according to the Department.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Marketing Program.
With the increasing competitiveness and complexity of the real estate market, some employers prefer to hire candidates with a college degree or college courses, says the Department. Courses in business administration, finance, economics, and law can be useful, and brokers who plan to open their own companies often take business courses like accounting and marketing.

Career #3: Claims Adjusters, Appraisers, Examiners, Investigators

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Median
Annual Salary*

$61,190

Top 10% of
Earners*

>$90,570

Bottom 10% of Earners*

<$37,220

Claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners and investigators are the men and women responsible for evaluating insurance claims, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
High-Pay Factors: "Claims adjusters often work erratic schedules, including early mornings, late nights, and weekends, to meet the demands of their clients," says Michael Provitera, associate professor of organizational behavior at Barry University in Miami, Fla. Because they're expected to be available pretty much 24-7, employers see value in paying claims adjusters a decent wage, with or without a college degree, he says.
How to Get Your Foot in the Door: Your high school diploma is a start, but what can be really useful to have is specific knowledge in the areas where the insurer you wish to work for operates. For example, according to the Department of Labor, auto damage appraisers will typically have a postsecondary non-degree award, or have experience identifying and estimating the cost of automotive repair from working in an auto repair shop.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Business Program.
The Department reports that employers sometimes prefer to hire those with a bachelor's degree or some insurance-related work experience. Appropriate coursework depends on the kind of work the individual is pursuing. For example, for someone who specializes in financial loss claims due to merchandise damage, strikes, or equipment breakdowns, a background in accounting or business might be best.

Career #4: Detectives and Criminal Investigators

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Median
Annual Salary*

$76,730

Top 10% of
Earners*

>$125,320

Bottom 10% of Earners*

<$40,110

A detective, or an agent, or special agent, as they're sometimes called, is responsible for gathering facts and collecting evidence of possible crimes, notes the U.S. Department of Labor. Just like police officers, they are often called upon to testify in court.
High-Pay Factors: According to one expert, paying detectives well can actually save money. "To best utilize a forensic scientist's expertise, hiring detectives or investigators to do the searching can ease a budget-strapped department. And careers where you're developing yourself on-the-job provides ample fuel for raises, which makes them the best kind of jobs for earning a good salary," says Lyn O'Brien, a career expert and founder of YourHiddenAdvantage.com, a website dedicated to helping busy career professionals get more done.
How to Get Your Foot in the Door: Along with a high school diploma, the Department of Labor says detectives typically start their careers as police officers before being promoted to detective. Detectives and police usually must graduate from the relevant training academy and complete a period of on-the-job training. They must be at least 21, citizens of the United States, and qualify under rigorous personal and physical standards.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Criminal Justice Program.
Applicants are encouraged by state and local agencies to continue their education after graduating high school, says the Department, adding that programs in criminal justice and law enforcement are offered by many colleges, universities, and junior colleges.

Career #5: Gaming Manager

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Median
Annual Salary*

$66,200

Top 10% of
Earners*

>$117,450

Bottom 10% of Earners*

<$38,770

Gaming managers oversee the gaming operations and personnel in their part of the casino, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. They're the ones keeping an eye on customers and employees, explaining house operating rules if customers don't understand, and interviewing, hiring and training new employees.
High-Pay Factors: Provitera says gaming managers tend to be paid well because they present an ambience of fun and complimentary perks that keep people coming back to the casino time and time again.
"While a college degree can help, these professionals can often attain a high salary without a degree because a gaming manager's skill level comes from their willingness to work late hours and constantly delight the customers," he notes.
How to Get Your Foot In the Door: Besides having a high school diploma, gaming services workers must obtain licensing from a state regulatory agency, for example a gaming commission or state casino control board, says the Department of Labor. Licensing requirements for gaming dealers and other service workers will be different from those for supervisory or managerial positions. These workers must typically also pass a drug test and background check.