A secure, high-paying job can seem like the Holy Grail in the current economy. But more and more adults are finding a direct route to their goal with career-focused education. An online degree from a college or vocational school unlocks your career potential -- in any economy.
Online technical training reboots your career
With the economic slump, online vocational schools are seeing a surge of applicants. Online education offers a means for working adults to shore up their current position or train for a new career. David Pauldine, president of a major online university, is seeing an influx of students motivated by a desire for job security: "I have heard repeatedly... prospective students saying they just lost their job or fear that they might lose their job." Their decision to enroll "is a calculated investment as a hedge against unemployment." Career training offers a means of "moving into something that has legs" -- either gaining a foothold in a current career or pursuing a new path.
Offer: Search for Schools
Online programs feature convenient, self-paced courses grounded in real-world career training. The New York Times explains: "Vocational colleges and for-profit learning centers are appealing partly because of their convenience and efficiency. Unlike traditional campuses, they tend to offer a workmanlike atmosphere that allows progress to be made at a fast clip." Harris Miller, president of industry group Career College Association explains: "Our schools are designed so that you can do a two-year program in 16 to 18 months or a four-year program in three years." A no-nonsense approach to higher education makes it possible for working adults to build the skills they need.
Five paths to job security
- Medical assistant certificate
Buoyed by increasing demand for health services, the health care industry is sailing through the economic downturn. Many allied health training programs offer a path into this high-demand sector in a year or less. Amy Sutton of Portland, Oregon, is making a well-calculated move from real estate into health care through a one-year medical assistant program. Inspired by plentiful job listings for medical assistants, she is looking forward to a stable career "where I could make a difference."
A one-year medical assistant certificate qualifies graduates to do administrative work in hospitals and medical clinics. Medical assistants also perform light patient care, such as managing patient records and taking blood pressure readings. The Department of Labor predicts a stunning 35 percent growth in employment through 2016, making this one of the top ten fastest-growing occupations in the U.S. Average 2008 salary: $29,060
- Electrical engineering technician certificate or associate degree
Technicians can give their career a shot of life with a targeted career training program. Jonathan Beam of Houston is investing nine months into an electrical technician training program in order to access what he sees as "limitless" career opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics supports his optimism: "Opportunities will be best for individuals with an associate degree or extensive job training in engineering technology." Certification is an asset in a tight economy, "provid[ing] job seekers with a competitive advantage."
An engineering technician associate degree or certificate combines courses in math and science fundamentals with hands-on training. The two-year associate degree features a broader college education, which can lead to more advancement opportunities and higher pay. Electrical engineering technicians earned an average salary of $53,990 in 2008.
- IT project manager professional (PMP) certificate
IT and computer support specialists can take their career to the next level with project management training. The project management certification program equips you with the skills to lead a team and manage complex projects. The program, which may be completed in a matter of months, offers real-world training in everything from budget forecasting to risk management. You'll also build expertise using Microsoft Project and other advanced project management tools. PMP certification training prepares you to take the Project Management Institute's professional certification exam.
Moving into a management role offers more than a solid foothold in the IT department. Project managers also command a significantly higher salary. Computer and information systems managers earned $118,710 in 2008.
- Paralegal certificate or associate degree
Paralegals are steadily ascending in the legal profession, assuming many of the responsibilities traditionally reserved for attorneys. As a result, demand for qualified paralegals is rising. The occupation is poised to grow 22 percent through 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with "the best employment opportunities [going to] formally trained paralegals."
Formal training for paralegals means either an associate degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor's degree in any field combined with a paralegal certificate. The certificate, which may be completed in under a year, is well-suited to career changers who already have a college degree in another field. If you are starting out fresh, choose a two-year associate degree which combines core academic courses with applied legal training. Paralegals earned $48,790 in 2008.
- Associate degree in interactive media design
Artists don't need to abandon their creative vocation during economic tough times -- for career opportunity, look no further than the digital arts. An online program in interactive media design can help you bridge the gap between artistic talent and gainful employment. You'll develop technical skills in today's interactive multimedia applications, including 3-D modeling, animation and video production programs.
Multimedia artists can expect better job prospects than nearly any other artistic specialist, with 26 percent employment growth projected through 2016. Industries fueling the demand for digital artists include entertainment, advertising, and even scientific research and design services. Three-dimensional design and animation skills have applications in video game and Web development, as well as architectural and design modeling. Multimedia artists earned $62,380 in 2008.
The economy may be in a slump, but you don't need to be. Today's online career training programs offer a convenient way to recharge your resume. Whether you're hoping to advance your current career or forge a new path, the right certificate or degree can help you find your Holy Grail.
