Interested In Obtaining An Associate's Degree? Find Out Which Professions Are In Demand
Workers with an Associate's degree averaged an extra $10,168 a year compared to workers with a high school diploma according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. An Associate's degree gives you the knowledge and skills that prepare you to enter the workforce through courses and projects designed by industry professionals.
Even though the economy fluctuates, some jobs maintain a high level of security due to consistent demand. Here are some in-demand fields where Associate's degree graduates can flourish:
Accounting
An Associate’s degree in accounting would help you build a foundation by educating you about financial investigation, financial institutions and markets, and payroll accounting. Employment of accountants is expected to grow by 22 percent over the next 10 years, much faster than the average for all other occupations (BLS, 2008). New accounting jobs become available as the number of businesses increases and they adapt to financial law and government regulations. Additionally, accountants, on average make an average of $61,500 per year, which is a nice boost in anyone's checking account (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Medical Administration
An Associate's degree in Medical Administration could also prepare you for a job in medical and health management, which expects employment growth of 16 percent over the next 10 years (BLS, 2011). The coursework for an Associate's Medical Administration degree would prepare you to manage a medical office with the most efficiency. Online degrees are available if you already have a job in healthcare and need a more flexible schedule. After graduation, you can enter the workforce, or continue your education with a Bachelor's degree.
Software Application Development
With a Software Application Development degree, you could enter the field of computer programming with the knowledge and skills necessary to create new technology to affect people on a global scale. Employment of computer programmers and software developers is projected to increase by 32 percent over the next 10 years (BLS, 2008). The average salary for all of those in this field could range from $69,000 to $92,000 (BLS, 2008). Courses on topics like software design, Java programming and mobile computing will help you stay updated on current technology.
Nursing Degrees
With opportunities abounding in healthcare facilities around the nation, your Practical Nursing Associate’s degree or Diploma can help you start your nursing career anywhere from a clinic or hospital to a nursing home or home healthcare agency. There are many in-demand and profitable career paths to pursue after earning an Associate's degree, and recent graduates see a number of varied and interesting job opportunities.
