Finding jobs, for recent graduates in particular, can be a stressful task. But
what if it didn't have to be that way? You could reduce the worry and anxiety
that sometimes comes with graduating by preparing for a career that is
expecting high-growth in the coming years. "Why does that matter?"
you might ask. Because in fast-growing vocational fields, employers are looking
for skilled professionals just like you.
If you are here
conducting your research before choosing your program, then you are ahead of
the game. You can take a look at some of the highest-growth career paths to
help guide your decision-making. And if you are a recent college graduate, jobs
in fast-growing sectors likely exist for you too. You may hold a certificate,
diploma, or degree that can help lead you right into an excellent job. Or with
a small amount of bridging, you could be ready to pursue the position you
desire.
The reality is that
many of today's top positions require specialized skills, so it is ideal to
choose a program that most closely matches your chosen vocational field. But if
you are considering a career that differs from what you have already trained
for, all may not be lost. Often, you will have learned transferable skills and
may even have credits that could count toward a different program. So you might
not be that far off from getting the job you want.
Some of the best jobs
for college grads are those that offer growth potential and a good salary. With
that in mind, we have devised a list of 13 occupations that are ordered by
projected job growth and cover industries ranging from business and technology
to health care and beauty to media arts and skilled trades. So take a moment to
explore the possibilities; you may come across a perfect fit that you never
even considered before now!
(Note that the job
growth data is based on projections for the 2016-to-2026 period.* And the
yearly salary figures are derived from May 2017 data.**)
1. Commercial Diver
Imagine a job that not only enables you to
travel around the globe, but also gives you glimpses into corners of the world
that most people will never see. That's the adventure-filled job of a
commercial diver. And surprisingly, it does not take a large time commitment to
start preparing for a commercial diving career.
Many commercial diver
programs can be completed in as little as six months. And if you have already
trained in areas like scuba diving or welding, it is possible that some of your
education could be transferable. Most commercial divers are expected to have
experience in both topside and underwater welding, as well as underwater
inspection, installation, and salvage and recovery.
It is important to
note that not all commercial diving careers are the same. Actually, there are
quite a few specialties within the sector. The more common specializations
include:
Offshore diving—Join
oil and gas companies that have offshore operations and spend a great deal of
time under water exploring, building new structures, and maintaining existing
sites.
Onshore diving—Work
for engineering companies to assist with surveying and building structures such
as bridges and dams. Onshore divers can also find employment at docks and
boatyards, as well as with pipeline companies.
HAZMAT diving—Work
for a variety of organizations and engage in activities like wreckage recovery,
underwater pipeline maintenance and repair, and sewer line welding. HAZMAT divers
are also the people who are responsible for dealing with major disasters like
nuclear plant meltdowns.
Military & police
diving—Gain employment with government organizations and, depending on the
department, you could be involved in anything from defusing underwater bombs to
searching for underwater evidence related to criminal investigations.
Naval diving—Sign on
with the Navy and find yourself inspecting and cleaning vessels. You could also
play a role with examining and recovering underwater wreckage.
Other career tracks
that you could pursue within the diving sector include occupations like scuba
diving instructor, diving equipment repair technician, and underwater
photographer/videographer. And due to the wide variety of options in the
industry, there are a large amount of certification opportunities available. To
get an idea of the variability, below are some of the organizations that offer
certifications:
American Petroleum
Institute
American Welding
Society
Association of
Commercial Diving Educators
Association of Diving
Contractors International
Diver Certification
Board of Canada
National Academy of
Scuba Educators
National Board of
Diving & Hyperbaric Medical Technology
National Centres for
Construction Education and Research
National Registry of
Emergency Medical Technicians
With a high-rate of
growth projected, the commercial diving industry may provide numerous potential
jobs for recent college grads. Commercial diving is a career path that can
offer great earning and growth potential, and many of the programs can be
completed in less than a year.
Entry-level
education—Certificate
Estimated job
growth—11 percent; 400 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$55,270
Top-end annual
salary—$96,850 and higher
2. Personal Financial
Advisor
A career in personal financial advising could
be an excellent option if you hold a degree in finance, accounting, business,
economics, or another related field. By opting for an occupation in which you
assist individuals with their financial planning, you could be opening yourself
up to some great opportunities for future growth and earnings. It is projected
that an aging population, combined with longer life expectancies, will create a
strong demand for professionals who are well-versed in stocks, bonds, mutual
funds, taxes, insurance, and other personal finance matters.
It is imperative that
you possess the ability to establish trusting relationships and be able to
communicate in terms that your clients will understand. You will likely work
with them to help them make short- and long-term financial decisions based on
several factors. You will consider your clients' current financial situations
and desired investment-risk levels, as well as market and regulatory
conditions. You may be helping your clients plan for just about anything from
sending a child to college to buying a home to retiring.
So if you are working
toward, or already hold a degree in, a finance- or other business-related area,
you may want to consider becoming a personal financial advisor. It is a
vocational field expected to offer a large number of jobs in the coming years.
Entry-level
education—Bachelor's degree
Estimated job
growth—15 percent; 40,400 additional new jobs
Average annual salary—$124,140
Top-end annual
salary—$208,000 and higher
3. Web Designer
Would you like to put your artistic and
technical skills to good use? Then consider pursuing a career as a web
designer. It could be an excellent job option if you have an education in web
design, graphic design, or a related media arts discipline. By already having
an education in a similar field, you may be able to transfer credits in order
to obtain essential web design training in a short timeframe.
Many people do not
realize that designing web pages is a lot more complex than it sounds. Creating
websites involves a delicate balance between functionality and visual
aesthetics. You have to consider aspects like the goals of the business, target
market, and needs of the end-users when you are deciding on the appropriate
colors, fonts, and images, as well as the layout and structure of the site.
If you are
considering this career field, keep in mind that your position may require you
to possess expertise in some or all of the following areas:
Animated graphics
Database
administration
Digital illustration
and imaging
Graphic design
Marketing
Web applications and
programming
The ongoing growth of
digital media and online business is driving the demand for professional web
designers, which contributes to it being one of the best jobs for college
graduates.
Entry-level
education—Associate's or bachelor's degree
Estimated job growth—15
percent; 24,400 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$74,110
Top-end annual
salary—$122,320 and higher
4. Diagnostic Medical
Sonographer
Although diagnostic medical sonography is a
specific field of study, most programs do not require a large time commitment.
They can typically be completed in less than two years. And if you already have
an education in related areas of health care or biology, you may be able to
complete the training even sooner.
Diagnostic medical
sonographers, or ultrasound technicians, take on a vital role within modern
medicine. Ultrasounds have been in use since the 1950s and are considered to
have little to no risk associated with them. For this reason, ultrasound has
become a preferred option over radiologic procedures.
Ultrasound techs use
sophisticated medical imaging technology that provides a window into a
patient's body. Although the procedures are commonly associated with pregnancy,
they actually have many other uses. Medical sonography is an essential tool
used for diagnosing and treating conditions related to the abdomen, chest,
pelvis, and cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. Your job as a tech is
to perform Doppler and other sonographic procedures in order to take pictures
and record data for review by physicians.
Diagnostic medical
sonographers are mainly employed in hospitals, but there could also be
entry-level jobs for college graduates available within other medical
establishments that offer imaging services. You may even be able to enhance
your career prospects by obtaining additional certification through the
American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
Entry-level
education—Associate's degree
Estimated job
growth—17 percent; 21,100 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$73,200
Top-end annual
salary—$99,840 and higher
5. Phlebotomist
If you've ever had your blood drawn, then
you've witnessed the work of a phlebotomist. You could easily prepare for this
critical role within medical labs through phlebotomy training that can
typically be completed in a year or less. And if you already possess an
education in medical sciences, you may be able to complete your training in a
matter of months.
In your role as a
phlebotomist, you will collect blood samples for medical tests, transfusions,
donations, or research. You will need to carefully carry out blood-drawing
techniques, have a good rapport with patients, and remain organized and
detail-oriented in order to accurately record data and manage patient files.
After all, it takes a special type of person to stay collected under pressure
while ensuring that procedures are pain-free, especially for those patients who
are scared of needles.
The increased demand
for phlebotomists is a result of two factors: The introduction of the
Affordable Care Act has resulted in more people having health insurance, and
the American population is aging. This has led to more requests for medical
tests. And that's not to mention the fact that medical advancements may also
contribute to the development of new lab tests.
So with just a small
amount of career training, you could soon be working as a phlebotomist in a
hospital, blood bank, clinic, or other medical organization that is equipped
with lab facilities. And you may even want to consider furthering your
credentials by becoming a National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT)
through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), which can help you
pursue some of the best jobs for college graduates in the field of phlebotomy.
Entry-level
education—Certificate or diploma
Estimated job
growth—25 percent; 30,100 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$34,710
Top-end annual
salary—$48,030 and higher
6. Cardiovascular
Technologist
Cardiovascular technology is a high-growth
career field because heart disease is prevalent in the United States. From 2000
to 2010, cardiovascular procedures and operations increased by 28 percent in the
U.S. And as of 2014, it was estimated that 25 percent of the American
population had some form of cardiovascular disease.*** Almost half of the
country's population is considered at risk for heart disease, and approximately
735,000 Americans have a heart attack every year. In fact, heart disease is
responsible for one in every four deaths in the U.S.****
So you can see why
cardiovascular technologists have a critical role in the medical system. They
capture images and conduct tests that assist physicians with diagnosing and
treating heart conditions and diseases. Cardiovascular technicians use
ultrasound imaging equipment to perform non-invasive procedures that allow
doctors to see inside a patient's body. Performing electrocardiograms (EKGs),
stress tests, and Holter monitoring can also be the responsibility of a
cardiovascular technologist.
Entering this field
may not be as difficult as you initially think. If you are starting out fresh,
you could complete a program within one to two years. And if you already have
an education in an area related to anatomy, physiology, and/or pathology, you
may be able to dramatically reduce your training time.
Once you are ready to
pursue cardiovascular technology jobs, you will want to start your search with
hospitals and other medical settings where EKGs and sonography services are
offered. And you may find even greater opportunities if you seek further
certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
(ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).
Entry-level
education—Associate's degree
Estimated job
growth—10 percent; 5,500 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$57,250
Top-end annual
salary—$90,760 and higher
7. Market Research
Analyst
The success of a business rides on its ability
to sell its products and services. This is why the job of a market research
analyst is so important. Professionals with this occupation conduct extensive
research that helps guide their companies' development of products and
services, as well as marketing decisions. And with a degree in marketing or
other business-related area of study, you could opt to join this fascinating
field.
A business looks to a
market research analyst in order to gain insight into what consumers want and
need, how much they are willing to spend, and what products or services are
already being offered in the marketplace. Along with assessing competitors and
staying current on emerging trends, market research analysts also review the
successes and failures of their companies' current marketing and sales
strategies.
In addition to solid
marketing and business skills, it is likely that you'll need to be able to
communicate effectively, use a variety of computer software programs, and turn
your research into well-written reports and appealing visual presentations. As a
person who possesses these abilities and is a recent college graduate, jobs
could be found with organizations of all sizes, including large marketing firms
that manage many accounts.
Entry-level
education—Associate's or bachelor's degree
Estimated job growth—23
percent; 138,300 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$71,450
Top-end annual
salary—$122,770 and higher
8. Software Developer
Considering that software is required to
operate your computer, smartphone, tablet, and many other electronic devices,
it is no wonder that software developers are considered essential in the modern
high-tech world. They keep organizations current and in line with the latest
technology.
Software developers
are artistic, flexible, and innovative problem-solvers who help businesses
achieve their goals, increase efficiencies, and boost bottom lines. Although
the time needed to complete your training can range from two to four years, it
can be a worthwhile commitment. And if you have already completed a
tech-related program, you may be able prepare to become a software developer
even sooner.
It is likely that you
will need to possess expertise in a wide range of areas, including programming
languages like Java and C#, operating systems, mobile application development,
database management, and cloud and Internet computing. And you could choose to
showcase your skills even further by obtaining certifications such as:
Adobe Certified
Expert (ACE)
C or C++ Certified
Senior Programmer (CLS or CPS)
(ISC)2 Certified
Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)
Google Apps Certified
Deployment Specialist
Microsoft Certified
Solutions Developer (MCSD)
Developing knowledge
and abilities in the above areas could lead you to jobs with IT companies, health
care organizations, and government departments. As a software developer, you
could benefit from a bright future filled with excellent growth and earning
potential.
Entry-level
education—Bachelor's degree
Estimated job
growth—24 percent; 302,500 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$106,710 for application developers and $111,780 for systems software
developers
Top-end annual
salary—$160,100 and higher for application developers and $164,150 and higher
for systems software developers
9. Electrician
The modern world is built on electricity,
which is a vital component of everyday life for almost everything that you do.
In addition to needing to safely and securely install, maintain, and repair new
and existing electrical systems, emerging technologies like solar and wind
energy are expected to drive the demand for electricians in the coming years.
Although possessing
electrical training can help you enter this field, you don't need to fret if
you are starting from square one. Depending on the type of program you opt for,
you could obtain the skills you need to get started in a matter of months. Or
you could go the route of an apprenticeship program that combines your in-class
instruction with paid on-the-job training over the course of four years.
Developing expertise
in areas related to electrical technology, science, and math can help prepare
you to work on commercial, industrial, and residential systems. And to gain
even greater access to electrical jobs, you might want to consider obtaining certification
through an agency such as the Electrical Training Alliance. Also note that most
states have individual licensing rules, so it is important to check that you
will meet your state's requirements.
Entry-level
education—Certificate or diploma
Estimated job
growth—9 percent; 59,600 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$57,910
Top-end annual
salary—$92,690 and higher
10. HVAC Technician
Just like electricians, HVAC technicians take
on an essential role in the modern world. Their professional expertise aids
them in installing, repairing, and maintaining systems related to air
temperature and quality control, ventilation, and refrigeration. People and
organizations rely on heating systems in the winter and cooling systems in the
summer. And proper ventilation is critical for maintaining the air quality in
larger buildings. Add in the need for refrigeration and you can see why HVAC
technicians are so important.
You have several
training options to prepare you for the HVAC profession. Programs can range
from just a few months to four-year apprenticeships that combine in-class
training with paid work. Your program will help you build knowledge in areas
related to electrical, electronic, and mechanical HVAC components, and it may
even set you up to go after other career-boosting certifications. It is
possible to obtain HVAC certifications through the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), NATE (North American Technician Excellence), and HVAC Excellence.
Along with needing to
install new units and repair and maintain existing systems, HVAC technicians
are facing growing demand due to the advancement of green technologies like
geothermal and solar energy. If you like the sound of a skilled trades career,
then you might want to pursue one of the good-paying high-growth jobs that the
HVAC industry has to offer.
Entry-level
education—Certificate or diploma
Estimated job
growth—15 percent; 48,800 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$49,530
Top-end annual
salary—$75,330 and higher
11. Computer Support
Specialist
The computer support sector offers a lot of
variation in employment options, so the program choices can be quite diverse.
If you have earned a diploma or degree in a technology discipline related to
computer hardware and software, computer repair, networking, systems
administration, or a similar subject, you could be set to pursue computer
support .
As a computer support
specialist, you assist people and organizations with their computer hardware
components and software programs. Your position could be quite technical and
involve supporting network and database users. Or you could be working in more
of a help desk capacity, which involves assisting non-technical users who are
experiencing problems. Some of the responsibilities you may have could include:
Installing and
maintaining computer systems
Installing hardware
and software
Assessing and solving
problems
Monitoring and
troubleshooting networks
Assisting remote
users
Conducting computer
repairs
Performing necessary
system updates
There are also a
number of industry certifications that computer support professionals can
achieve, which include the following:
Apple Certified
Support Professional (ACSP)
CompTIA A+
HDI Support Center
Analyst (HDI-SCA)
iET Service Desk
Analyst
Microsoft Specialist
You may be able to
find employment opportunities with retail businesses, corporate offices, or
health care, financial, or government organizations, just to name a few of the
possibilities. Depending on the type of training you have received, you could
qualify for positions such as computer support specialist, desktop support
technician, help desk specialist, and technical support specialist.
Entry-level
education—Diploma, associate's, or bachelor's degree
Estimated job
growth—11 percent; 88,500 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$54,150
Top-end annual
salary—$82,900 and higher
12. Skin Care
Specialist
With a small amount of training, you could be
prepared to begin a career in which you play a part in helping people look and
feel their best. Even if you have no prior beauty training, you could complete
a skin care or aesthetician program in as little as six months. And if you have
already completed a cosmetology program, it is likely that you possess the
knowledge and skills needed to start down this career path.
Skin care
specialists—also referred to as aestheticians—offer facials, hair removal,
makeup application, body wraps, and additional skin care services in salon,
spa, resort, and other non-medical settings. Your clients could simply want to
relax and enhance their appearance, or they could be seeking health benefits to
deal with concerns like acne, eczema, and wrinkles.
Many skin care
programs will also help you develop essential business skills so that you could
choose to run your own shop rather than work for someone else. Whatever
direction you choose, you can expect to face some great professional
opportunities.
Entry-level
education—Certificate or diploma
Estimated job
growth—14 present; 8,500 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$35,130
Top-end annual
salary—$58,810 and higher
13. Film & Video
Editor
Imagine having a hand
in creating a ground-breaking documentary or the latest blockbuster film. That
could be your reality if you begin a career in film and video editing. And by
completing a media arts program that focuses on subjects like cinematography,
digital film, film-making, media production, or video production, you could be
on your way to an exceptional career.
Film and video
editors understand the creative and technical aspects that are needed to tell a
story. Their professional expertise is relied on to create movies, TV shows,
music videos, commercials, corporate videos, screenplays, and teleplays. And
many film and video editors have skills that crossover into other areas such as
production. Depending on the type of position you pursue, you could be using
the latest equipment and software to:
Shoot, edit, and
direct analog and digital footage
Write or evaluate
scripts
Design sets
Set up lighting
Write contracts
Assist with
budgeting, marketing, finance, and distribution activities
As consumers continue
to view mobile and online content, it is expected that film and video editing
professionals could find good job prospects well into the future. And the jobs
usually pay quite well too.
Entry-level
education—Associate's or bachelor's degree
Estimated job
growth—17 present; 5,800 additional new jobs
Average annual
salary—$83,950
Top-end annual
salary—$163,440 and higher
Prepare to Elevate
Your Professional Talents
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