As a student about to clear your high school diploma, you’ll soon make one of the most critical decisions in life. That’s figuring out your college major. The major you choose could affect your career direction and even lifestyle.
The big question is, do you follow your passion? Or you’ll focus on the college diplomas that are likely to lead to top earnings? One study shows that 80% of graduates chose degrees that can lead to better wages.
Are you debating what college major to pursue in 2021? These are 8 of the most valuable college diplomas heading into the new decade.
1. Nursing
Projections from the US Bureau of Statistics predict a shortage of 11 million nurses. Employment opportunities in the field are likely to increase by 15% between 2016 to 2026. In short, this is one of the fastest-growing career paths and it can guarantee your career stability.
In 2019, registered nurses were earning a median wage of $73,300. Licensed practical and vocational nurses earned median pay of $47,480 in that year. Highest paid nurses, such as Certified Anesthetists, earn up to $167,950 in 2020.
The best part of being a nurse is that you’re still able to choose an ideal and fulfilling career path. You can opt to work as an administrator or with infants, for instance. Or you can work as an educator or in gerontology; the options are too many. Entering the field is also easy as you can start with a diploma in Nursing.
2. Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Some of the top-earning professionals today hold degrees in pharmacology and pharmaceutical studies. A pharmacologist may make $52k to $137k per year. Top pharmacists may earn even more.
You’re probably wondering if you can get a pharmacology diploma in college. Most pharmacy and pharmacology technicians need a certificate in Pharmacy. But, there are plans to make accreditation compulsory for pharmacology technicians.
To climb the pharmacology ladder, you’ll need to complete the four year Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Later you can choose to explore either toxicology or veterinary or clinical pharmacology. But wherever you work, you have a chance to become one of the top-earning professionals in the country.
3. Business Diploma and Degree
With a diploma in business, you can work in a range of environments and positions. These include but are not limited to being a business owner, Program Coordinator, or Team Leader. But with only a high school diploma, you may not have the requirements for higher-paying industry jobs.
People with business degrees attract some of the highest earnings in the country. For instance, the median wage for business and financial careers was $69,820 in 2019. Expected occupational growth is growing faster than most occupations at 5%.
Career growth in the business world means pursuing extra knowledge and certifications. A candidate with project management or leadership certifications is more attractive to employers. Pursue the top business certifications to improve your resume and stay ahead of the pack.
4. Electrical Engineering
An electrical engineering diploma has remained valuable for many years. Today, some of the top paid professionals in the world are in electrical engineering. On average, an electrical engineer can make up to $71,000 per year, going beyond $254,000 with higher experience.
There are many career paths to explore in electrical engineering. Most of these careers have higher earning potential. Yet, you must be a great team player, creative and have problem-solving skills to make it in this career.
5. Naval and Marine Engineering
Marine engineering isn’t only lucrative but it’s also one of the exciting careers. It offers opportunities to explore design, development, innovation, maintenance, or development.
If you’re interested in Marine Engineering, a foundation in Math, Physics, and Chemistry is vital. You should also have a deep interest in Maritime, technology, and IT.
Confirm if your engineering school has the Accreditation from the Board for Engineering. There are also tons of fake diplomas today and the marine industry isn’t an exception.
6. Computer Science
A computer science diploma can fill your resume with highly demanded skills. You’ll be eligible to work in financial organizations, software houses, consultancy, data companies, or NGOs.
The increasing need for tech means you have plenty of freedom to explore specialist positions. Lucrative jobs here include becoming an Analytics Manager, IT Architect, or Software Manager.
7. Cognitive Sciences
Perhaps you’re wondering why there’s no mention of artificial intelligence so far. You need to major in Cognitive sciences to prepare for a career in the analytical fields.
Cognition skills will make you versatile and allow you to work in any job that may need cognitive science. With skills in data analysis, you can work in telecommunication or linguistic analysis. Basic skills in this major can make you a technical writer or a consultant.
More companies are investing in top AI and data analysis talents. A lot of focus is on autonomous vehicles, smart technologies, face scanners, computerized healthcare, and so on. And with a shortage of talent, the companies have no option but to pay top salaries. Leading AI specialists earn up to $295k.
8. Physical Therapy
A career as a physical therapist can guarantee higher earnings and a strong job market. With the US anticipating the need for over 69,200 physical therapists, entering the profession won’t be a struggle.
The journey to becoming a physical therapist starts with excelling in biology and chemistry in high school. You can then take a college diploma or certificate in Physical therapy. Some therapists have a degree in Biology.
As a physical therapist, you can start a business to help clients meet their health and fitness goals. You can help patients with their fitness regimes or show them a healthier diet plan.
Choose From These Valuable College Diplomas
Valuable college diplomas provide a quicker way to gainful employment and a stable income. But you must also make sure you’re choosing a certification that’s closer to your interests. The good thing is that these diplomas also allow branching career paths.
Think about your ideal career and then reverse engineer a plan to reach your goal. For more tips and discussions on career advice, check out the rest of our blog.
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