A two-year degree can launch a lucrative career in a variety of industries today. For those looking for the best job stability and security after college, high-growth careers are a good option. These fields are predicted to enjoy faster than average growth over the next few years, ensuring more jobs will be available for those trained to move into positions. Check out these high-growth jobs you can land with a two-year degree to determine which career is right for you.
Nurse
The field of nursing is one of the hottest in terms of growth right now, according to Yahoo Education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts this field will grow by 26 percent through 2018. As the baby boomer population ages, the need for health care workers, particularly nurses, will continue to increase. Many enter this field with an associate degree in nursing and vocational certification. The average annual salary for a registered nurse is $60,010.
Dental Hygienist
Yahoo Finance states that the predicted job growth for dental hygienists through 2018 is a whopping 38 percent. This field also offers excellent income potential, with an average annual salary of around $68,000. Many earning that amount work part-time hours. More dental hygienists will be needed as the demand for high-quality dental care increases across the United States. Most dental hygienists enter the field with a two-year associate degree.
Medical Coder
Medical coders and medical information technicians maintain patient records for doctors’ offices, clinics and hospitals. The BLS expects job growth in this field to continue to grow at a rate of 21 percent through 2020. The predicted growth may be attributed to an aging population that will need more health care in upcoming years, as well as the need for doctors to move to electronic records from traditional paper files. The average annual salary for a medical coder is $32,350.
Radiologic Technologist
A radiologic technologist is a health care professional that performs a wide range of diagnostic testing for patients using x-rays and other imaging equipment. This field is also expected to see faster than average growth over the next few years, with predicted job growth at 28 percent. Most enter the field with an associate degree and certification in the state where they plan to work. The average annual salary for radiologic technologists is $54,340.
Paralegal
As lawyers require more assistance in their daily job duties, they are turning to paralegals to fit the bill. According to Degree Driven, this field is predicted to grow by around 22 percent through 2018. Those just entering the market after earning their two-year degree may expect to earn around $35,000, while the average annual salary for this field is $46,000.
This video describes the paralegal program at Ivy Tech Community College.
Environmental Engineering Technician
An environmental engineering technician works directly with environmental engineers to conduct tests and operate equipment used to clean up polluted environments. These professionals can enter the field with a two-year associate’s degree program at their local community college. Most work in indoor laboratories and earn an average annual salary of $40,560, according to MSN Careers. The expected job growth for this field is about 25 percent through 2016.
Occupational Therapist Assistant
These health care professionals work directly with occupational therapists to help patients regain skills to perform daily tasks. Patients are typically in therapy after an illness, injury or newly diagnosed disability. The occupational therapist assistant may provide transportation to therapy areas in a hospital or nursing facility. They may also assist patients with exercises and activities. The BLS predicts job growth in this field at around 41 percent through 2020. The average annual salary for an occupational therapist assistant is $47,490.
This video describes the occupational therapist assistant program at Cape Fear Community College.
Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers and accountants may enter the financial field with a two-year degree, although additional education may be required to advance in the field. Entry-level positions are expected to enjoy significant growth over the next few years, at a rate of nearly 14 percent through 2020. This field is a good fit for those who have attention to detail and enjoy working in an office environment. The average annual salary for a bookkeeper or accounting clerk is $34,030.
Personal Trainer
For those passionate about good health and fitness, the job of a personal trainer may offer plenty of potential. This field has grown in recent years, thanks to a renewed interest by the aging baby boomer population to stay fit and active. Personal trainers are also sought by those in the entertainment industry and younger folks looking for customized ways to keep their shape and energy level. Yahoo Finance says that personal trainers can make an average annual salary of around $52,000, and will enjoy job growth of 24 percent through 2020.
Computer Specialist
The job of the computer specialist is diverse because it involves supporting individuals and businesses to make the most of their technology systems. Computer specialists provide advice and assistance for computer hardware and software. These professionals also offer help to those who are having problems with their computer systems. Job growth for computer specialists is expected at around 18 percent through 2020, with the average annual salary for computer specialists at $46,260.
Finding work with a two-year degree is easier today than ever before. With many jobs available that promise stellar growth over the next few years, those attending community colleges have many options to choose from. This list is just a sampling of the many careers you can explore with a degree from your local community college.
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