The climate of the American economy is constantly evolving. Where the country once relied heavily on manufacturing, in recent years it has been moving toward an economy based on providing professional services. In fact, between 2004 and 2014, the government estimates that professional and related occupations will grow faster than all other job types, contributing some 6 million new positions. Most will come from three major professional occupation groups: healthcare and technical; computer and mathematical; and education or training occupations. AchieveYourCareer.com takes a look at the top ten most popular accredited professional degrees online. The salaries listed come from the 2006 national average according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and are not listed in any particular order.
Find Out More About Top Degree Programs:
Public Service and the Medical Field:
MS in Occupational Therapy – Occupational therapists work with patients to help them restore or develop daily living and work skills. With a growing number of middle-aged and elderly people who can benefit from these services, the US Department of Labor predicts occupational therapy will grow much faster than average. Positions require an MS in occupational therapy Salary: $58,311
BS in Nursing – Nursing is a profession that requires great compassion and skill. Registered nurses guide and assist patients through the most important stages of life, and help people achieve good health. Some universities provide an LPN to BS in Nursing program. Salary: $58,403
MS in Counseling – Counseling is one of the fastest growing professional occupations, and is best suited to caring individuals who tend toward leadership roles. The need for counselors is diverse; thousands of new jobs exist for educational, vocational and school counselors, as well as rehabilitation and substance abuse counselors. Earning an MS in counseling is the key to enter this profession. Salary: $43,507
MS in Physician Assistant Studies – A physician assistant works with patients, performing many of the same tasks that a physician does. Physician assistant is the fourth fastest growing occupation in the US. Earning an MS from an accredited university is required. Salary: $78,529
MS in Physical Therapy – Physical therapists work closely with patients to help them achieve and maintain maximum body function. Often, they work on a one-to-one basis with people who have suffered injury or illness and need rehabilitation. Physical therapists are required to complete an accredited degree program and pass a licensure examination. Salary: $64,727
Science and Education:
Ph.D. in Psychology – Jobs for clinical, counseling and school psychologists are growing fast. Psychologists provide counseling, training and support for their patients. A psychology degree is required for psychological assistant positions and for entrance into further study. Salary: $62,072
BS in Forensic Science – If you are a fan of the TV drama “CSI,” you know something about the scope of forensics. Forensic science technicians collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes. They often specialize in a certain area, such as examining firearms or analyzing DNA. Earning your BS in forensic science will get you started cracking cases. As lab methods and techniques become more effective, job opportunities in forensic science will only continue to grow. Salary: $42,704
MS in Computer Science – From cell phones to airplanes, computer software is used for more and more applications everyday. Employers seek job candidates with a broad understanding of systems and technologies. Earning an MS in computer science is preferred for more senior positions as a computer software engineer. Salary: $86,585
MA in Elementary Education – Qualified elementary teachers are in such high demand that earning an MA in elementary education will allow you the first pick of teaching jobs in virtually any city and state. As an elementary teacher, you will help students learn and grow, foster creativity and serve as a positive role model. Salary: $48,308.
Ph.D. in Education – With the demand for high quality education on the rise, the demand for qualified, upper level administrators is also up. In addition, universities need professors to instruct and inspire a new generation of teachers. As a postsecondary teacher, you will develop and deliver your own curriculum. Salary: $72,322
Finding Your Career Path
Earning your professional degree is a great investment in your future. When you are deciding on a career path, it is helpful to know which professional credentials are the most sought after. When you earn one of these ten accredited professional degrees, you can enter the job market with the confidence that comes with knowing you have the right qualifications needed in order to pursue the career of your dreams.
