Are you looking to go back to school but don’t want to commit to a lengthy or difficult degree program? In today’s job market, you don’t need to spend years in college to gain the skills needed for an in-demand career.
There are plenty of short-term educational programs that can give you the qualifications you need to start a new and rewarding career path. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: healthcare, IT, and skilled trades are some of the easiest fields to go to school for.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll outline some of the quickest certifications and degree programs you can complete in 1-2 years that will set you up for success in high-paying, growing career fields.
Healthcare
Healthcare is a rapidly growing field that offers a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you have a passion for helping others or are simply looking for a stable and rewarding career, pursuing a healthcare profession can be a great choice.
Here are some easy things to go to school for in the healthcare field:
Nursing
Nursing is one of the most popular healthcare professions and for good reason. Nurses play a crucial role in patient care, working alongside doctors and other healthcare professionals to provide compassionate and skilled care.
With a nursing degree, you can work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, and even schools. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for registered nurses is projected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
If you enjoy working with people and have a passion for healthcare, nursing could be the perfect career for you.
Dental Hygienist
If you have an interest in oral health and enjoy working with your hands, becoming a dental hygienist might be a great fit for you. Dental hygienists work closely with dentists to clean teeth, take x-rays, and educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices.
This profession typically requires an associate degree, making it an accessible option for those looking to enter the healthcare field. According to the American Dental Association, the median annual wage for dental hygienists was $76,220 in 2020.
With a projected job growth of 6% from 2019 to 2029, becoming a dental hygienist can provide you with a stable and fulfilling career.
Radiology Technician
For those interested in technology and diagnostic imaging, becoming a radiology technician can be an excellent choice. Radiology technicians operate imaging equipment such as x-ray machines, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, and computed tomography (CT) scanners to help diagnose and treat medical conditions.
This profession typically requires an associate degree and offers a competitive salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for radiologic and MRI technicians was $63,120 in 2020.
With a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029, the demand for radiology technicians is expected to remain strong.
Medical Assistant
If you’re looking for a versatile healthcare career that allows you to work in a variety of settings, becoming a medical assistant might be a great fit. Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks to support healthcare professionals.
They may greet patients, schedule appointments, take vital signs, and assist with medical procedures. With a diploma or certificate program, you can become a medical assistant in a relatively short amount of time.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical assistants was $35,850 in 2020. With a projected job growth of 19% from 2019 to 2029, the demand for medical assistants is expected to be much faster than average.
Pharmacy Technician
If you have an interest in medications and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, becoming a pharmacy technician can be a great option. Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of pharmacists to dispense medications, provide customer service, and manage inventory.
This profession typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or a certification. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $34,890 in 2020.
With a projected job growth of 4% from 2019 to 2029, pharmacy technicians continue to be in demand.
So, whether you choose nursing, dental hygiene, radiology technician, medical assistant, or pharmacy technician, pursuing a career in healthcare can provide you with a stable and fulfilling future. Take the first step towards your healthcare career today!
Information Technology
Information Technology (IT) is a field that encompasses a wide range of job opportunities. Pursuing a career in IT can be a smart choice as it offers great job prospects and opportunities for growth. Here are some easy things you can go to school for in the field of Information Technology:
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity professionals play a vital role in protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats. With the increasing number of cyber attacks, the demand for skilled cybersecurity experts is on the rise.
Going to school for cybersecurity can equip you with the knowledge and skills to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats. You can learn about network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, and much more.
Websites like cybersecurityeducation.org can provide valuable information and resources for those interested in pursuing a career in this field.
Network Administration
Network administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks within an organization. They ensure that the network is secure, efficient, and reliable. Going to school for network administration can help you develop the necessary skills to set up and troubleshoot networks, configure routers and switches, and manage network security.
Websites like comptia.org offer certifications and training programs that can enhance your knowledge and make you more marketable in this field.
Software Development
Software development is a rapidly growing field with a high demand for skilled professionals. Going to school for software development can provide you with the necessary skills to design, develop, and maintain software applications.
You can learn programming languages like Java, Python, or C++, as well as software development methodologies and best practices. Websites like codecademy.com offer online coding courses that can help you get started in this exciting field.
Web Development
Web development involves creating and maintaining websites. With the increasing need for businesses to have an online presence, the demand for web developers is continuously growing. Going to school for web development can teach you the skills needed to design and build websites using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other web technologies.
You can also learn about web design principles, user experience, and responsive web development. Websites like w3schools.com offer tutorials and resources for learning web development.
Data Science
Data science is a field that involves analyzing and interpreting large amounts of data to extract valuable insights. It combines elements of mathematics, statistics, and computer science to make data-driven decisions.
Going to school for data science can provide you with the knowledge and skills to work with big data, perform data analysis, and develop predictive models. Websites like kaggle.com offer datasets and competitions that can help you practice and improve your data science skills.
These are just a few examples of the easy things you can go to school for in the field of Information Technology. Each of these areas offers unique opportunities for career growth and development. So, if you have an interest in technology and problem-solving, consider pursuing a degree or certification in one of these fields and embark on an exciting career in Information Technology.
Skilled Trades
Skilled trades are an excellent option for those looking for a career that is both fulfilling and in-demand. These trades require specialized knowledge and hands-on skills, making them ideal for individuals who enjoy working with their hands and solving practical problems.
Not only do skilled trades offer great job security, but they also provide opportunities for career growth and a high earning potential. Here are some easy things to go to school for in the skilled trades field:
Plumbing
Plumbing is a highly sought-after trade that involves installing, repairing, and maintaining water supply and drainage systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. With the increasing demand for new construction and renovations, skilled plumbers are in high demand.
By attending a trade school or apprenticeship program, aspiring plumbers can gain the necessary skills to join this rewarding profession. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers is $55,160, with job prospects expected to grow by 4% from 2019 to 2029.
Electrical Technician
Electrical technicians play a critical role in installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in various settings. This trade requires a deep understanding of electrical theory, wiring, and circuitry.
By completing an electrical technician program, individuals can gain the skills needed to work in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. The demand for electrical technicians is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
With a median annual wage of $56,180, this trade offers great earning potential.
HVAC Technician
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. With the increasing need for energy-efficient systems, the demand for skilled HVAC technicians is on the rise.
By attending a trade school or apprenticeship program, individuals can gain the necessary skills and certifications to start a career in this field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC technicians earn a median annual wage of $50,590, and job growth is projected to be 4% from 2019 to 2029.
Welding
Welding is a versatile trade that involves joining metal parts together using heat and pressure. Skilled welders are in high demand across various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and automotive.
By completing a welding program, individuals can learn different welding techniques and gain the necessary certifications to pursue a career in this field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that welders earn a median annual wage of $44,190, and job prospects are expected to grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029.
Automotive Technology
If you have a passion for cars and enjoy working with your hands, a career in automotive technology might be the perfect fit. Automotive technicians are responsible for diagnosing and repairing vehicles’ mechanical and electrical systems.
With the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, there is a high demand for skilled automotive technicians. By attending a trade school or community college program, individuals can gain the necessary skills and certifications to excel in this field.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, automotive technicians earn a median annual wage of $44,520, and job prospects are projected to grow by 4% from 2019 to 2029.
Choosing a skilled trade can lead to a rewarding and fulfilling career. These trades offer stability, excellent earning potential, and the opportunity to work in a hands-on environment. Whether you choose to become a plumber, electrical technician, HVAC technician, welder, or automotive technician, pursuing a skilled trade can open doors to a successful and satisfying future.
Conclusion
The fast-changing job market has opened up a wide variety of opportunities in fields like healthcare, IT, and the skilled trades that don’t require an extensive education. Focusing your studies on acquiring career-oriented skills and certifications can put you on the path to a stable, lucrative career much quicker than a traditional four-year degree.
If you’re looking to go back to school in a focused, efficient way, the programs outlined above are a great place to start.
