If you've been avoiding career training because you're worried about the time commitment, you might be surprised at the number of careers possible with a short amount of education.
Train now, work soon
A bachelor's degree can take four years of full-time study, but shorter associate degrees can be completed in half the time. With even less of a commitment, a certificate or diploma program could put you in a career sooner. A shorter career training period means you can get to work faster. Check out some of the top jobs -- across a range of industries -- that feature a short training requirement.
Career #1: graphic designer
Personality Type: artistic, creative tech-loverLooking for a way to translate your artistic ability into a lucrative career? A degree or certificate in graphic design is a great start. Graphic designers work online and off, creating design elements for businesses and individuals.
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The BLS reports that graphic designers earned mean annual wages of $46,750 in 2008, and notes that about 25 percent are self-employed. This technical career could allow you to work from home on your own time.
While working as a graphic designer often requires a bachelor's degree, a number of technical positions are available for designers with associate degrees or certificates. Check out a few courses typically found in a graphic design program:
- Digital design
- Animation
- Electronic media
Career #2: technical support
Personality Type: gadget loving people-personEver wanted to know how to fix your own computer and earn money with your knowledge? A degree or certificate program in computer technical support gives you the best of both worlds. Support gurus work in retail, business and home environments; you may even be able to work from home. The BLS reports that computer support specialists earned mean annual wages of $46,370 in 2008, making this a great career without the traditional four-year degree.
An associate degree or less may be considered acceptable requirements for many retail, phone-based and in-house support careers. Check out a few courses typically found in a technical support program:
- Networking with TCP/IP
- Network troubleshooting and support
- Implementing and supporting services
Career #3: engineering technician
Personality Type: naturally curious do-it-yourselferBuilding, inspecting and repairing devices is the typical bread and butter of engineering technicians. The engineering profession is broad, and technician jobs are common for trained electrical, civil, industrial and mechanical technicians. Electrical and electronic engineering technicians earned mean annual wages of $53,990 in 2008, according to the BLS.
An associate degree in engineering technology is considered the minimum training requirement for most engineering technicians. Here's a sample of the coursework you'd take in a civil engineering technician program:
- Introduction to surveying
- Urban systems
- Construction principles
Career #4: accounting clerk
Personality Type: organized number cruncherAs an accounting clerk, you'd aid accountants and CPAs, working with private business, government or individuals. This popular career meant 2.1 million jobs for accounting and auditing clerks across every industry in 2006, the BLS reports. In 2008, accounting clerks earned mean annual wages of $33,800. Some clerks go on to complete more education and become fully licensed accountants.
Accounting coursework programs are popular for accounting and auditing clerks. For some accounting clerk positions, an associate degree may be required. Here are just a few typical courses found in an accounting program:
- Financial reporting
- Tax treatment of individuals
- Audit and assurance services
Career #5: court reporter
Personality type: efficient, accurate self-starterGet an insider's view of the legal system with a career as a court reporter. You'll transcribe court cases and legal hearings using specialized equipment and your formal training. Salary averages are good for this low-training career: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that court reporters earned mean annual wages of $51,960 in 2008. Court reporters may also freelance, meaning you could earn a higher salary when you need it.
Court reporters with certification have the best chances for employment, but training can be completed in as little as one year. Here are just a few courses you might find in career training as a court reporter:
- Machine shorthand
- Court reporting techniques
- Computer-aided transcription
Simplify career training online
Going to school online means you don't have to worry about scheduling conflicts and early morning class. Simply log on, complete your work, and get the training you need without having to change your entire life. Career training online is perfect for motivated learners of all ages; many students have returned to school after a long time away.
While no degree or certificate program can guarantee employment, hiring managers in the careers above often prefer or require education among applicants. An education gives you opportunities that you might not have otherwise, particularly if you lack experience in the field or if the job market is slim. Earning an associate degree or certificate keeps your skills current without taking up all your time.
