Returning to college is an investment in your future. Like all investments, it demands time and money. Invest both wisely, though, and you’ll get a massive return. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2021, those with a bachelor’s degree had median weekly earnings of $525 more than those with just a high school diploma. With an average student loan debt of around $30,000 per borrower, you could earn enough to repay your loans in just over a year. Careers in demand offer the safest bet with the largest potential return.
So what career path should you choose? Some factors to look for include:
- Careers that are in demand in fields that are growing rapidly, such as healthcare and technology.
- Fields with provider shortages since these may offer more incentives and job opportunities.
- Career paths with high average earnings.
And most importantly of all, choose a career that suits your unique talents. Your hard work should reap the benefits of a career you can feel good about. Some of the hottest careers in demand for 2022-2023 are:
1. Careers in Tech
In an increasingly digital world, there’s very little that technology leaves untouched. Medicine, education, travel and most aspects of your daily life involve some form of tech. There’s no sign that will change, which may be why tech roles are growing so rapidly.
The BLS projects 15% growth in the field between 2021 and 2031. That’s a more rapid rate of growth than almost any other field. With many roles commanding six figures, exceptional compensation and the chance to work from home, a tech job could help you balance your career goals with your hopes for your family.
Consider pursuing one of these flexible options:
- An Associate of Science in Information Systems and Technology is a great starter program for people hoping to enter the world of tech and build their knowledge base.
- A Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity deepens your technical knowledge and puts you on the front lines of the fight against cybercrime. Cybersecurity experts command large starting salaries — often well into six figures.
- Interested in design, education and technology? You can incorporate all three into your career with a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology, which prepares you to design classes, assess the role of technology in learning, and consult on the development of many learning tools.
2. Teaching and Education
A good education is always valuable, which means careers in education are unlikely to shrink. The BLS projects 7% growth in education careers between 2021 and 2031, with most starting salaries hovering between $50,000 and $75,000 (but with plenty of room for growth and bonuses).
Educators make a lasting difference in the lives of the students they support. And in doing so, they help shape a better world. Teachers aren’t limited to traditional teaching roles, though. After your bachelor’s degree, there are many specialized paths you can pursue. Consider one of the following careers that are in demand:
- Special education: Nearly 14% of public school students have disabilities, and the actual figure could be even higher. These students require accommodations and support to ensure live up to their full potential. Special education teachers partner with students, schools and families to build inclusive and effective classrooms. SNU’s Special Education Boot Camp can bring you quickly up to speed. Or, if you want to oversee special education programs as an administrator, consider a Master of Arts in Administration of Special Education.
- Educational administration and leadership: One great way to transform schools and brighten futures is by becoming a school administrator. A Master of Arts in Educational Leadership offers the background you need to climb the school hierarchy. Or write a dissertation and build expertise with a Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership.
- Graduate-level teacher training: If you don’t want to go into leadership just yet, but you do want to become an even better educator, a Master of Arts in Teaching could improve your skill set — and potentially your salary.
3. Business and Management
Every institution needs good managers and business experts who can shepherd organizations to make sound financial decisions and build a legacy. The BLS projects 8% growth in business and management occupations over the next decade. Most business roles have median earnings of about six figures, offering you a high salary and a chance at a better quality of life through more financial stability.
A diverse array of jobs are available with a business administration degree, especially at the graduate level. A Master of Business Administration offers a broad foundation for corporate, nonprofit, and government roles. Or, if you find the science of management and finance especially appealing, you might consider a Master of Science in Management.
Good leaders build strong institutions. Strong institutions build a better world. Shape the future with the right business training.
4. Athletic Roles
Whether you’re a fitness buff or just passionate about the sports you love, you don’t have to relegate your athletic interests to the weekend. With more sports teams than ever and many people integrating athletics and wellness into their lives, athletic jobs are plentiful. People with the proper training and education are in heavy demand. Athletic training jobs, for instance, are projected to grow 17% by 2031.
A Master of Science in Exercise Science offers a path to many different high-demand careers. The health promotion and wellness track is an ideal choice for academics interested in public health and policy, while the human performance track caters to those who want to optimize athletes’ performance.
A Master of Arts in Sports Management and Administration focuses on the business of sports. This degree could open the door to working in the athletic C-suite, serving as a sports agent or managing players.
5. Healthcare
The COVID-19 pandemic clarified what many in healthcare already knew: Health systems are chronically understaffed, and there’s a desperate need for healthcare experts of every variety. Healthcare careers are in demand, with roles growing at a stunning rate, with projected growth of 13% over the next decade. That means job security, attractive compensation packages and plenty of opportunities to switch roles as your needs evolve.
If you’re early in your career and want to help people recover from injuries and pain, consider an Associate of Science to become a physical therapist assistant. This is an excellent entry-level role, and many people return to school later to become physical therapists.
A health system can only be as good as those who lead it. Transformative leaders empower providers to work better and smarter while nurturing productive and healthy workplace cultures.
An MBA with a focus on healthcare offers business acumen and leadership expertise to people who want to work in healthcare administration. Or, if you’re headed back to college to complete a degree, consider a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re ready to get started or want to explore more options, SNU can help. A graduate degree from SNU can jump-start your career, break through mid-career ceilings, or empower you to continue doing what you already love, but with more education and often a higher salary. Learn more about our graduate programs.
