by Jennifer Merritt and Dawn Papandrea
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Take heart: The statistics are in your favor. From physician assistants to computer software engineers, The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) cites a number of professions expected to experience above-average growth through 2012. Add to that professions like nursing and special education that are always in demand for qualified employees, and you've got yourself a ball game.
Of course, before you start swinging for the fences, you may want to consider doing some spring training. Read on for our job season predictions, and how you can get a big-league job break through education.
Position: Physician Assistant
Ballpark increase by 2012: 57 percent
Paycheck: $64,670
Physician assistants (also known as PAs) provide healthcare services under the supervision of a physician. Many PAs work in primary care specialties, such as internal medicine, pediatrics, and family medicine, but can also assist doctors in surgery, emergency medicine, orthopedics, and geriatrics.
According to the BLS, most PA programs require two years of college and some work experience in the healthcare field, although most applicants to PA programs already hold a bachelor's or master's degree. Many PAs have backgrounds as registered nurses, but others come from various other medical professions, such as respiratory therapists, physical therapists, emergency medical technicians, and paramedics.
Is the prospect of that much schooling a giant curveball? If so, consider programs that give you a home-field advantage - many bachelor of science in health sciences/professional degrees can be earned online.
Position: Computer Software Engineer
Ballpark increase by 2012: 46 percent
Paycheck: $70,900
In today's rapidly evolving world, the role of a computer software engineer changes quickly, requiring a huge commitment to continuing education. According to the BLS, a computer software engineer knows the ins and outs of computer science, such as engineering and mathematical analysis, as well as design, development, testing, and evaluation of computer software and systems.
Thinking of switching to a computer software engineering team? Get your training gear on - you'll need to have a bachelor's degree as well as a wealth of computer knowledge, the exact extent of which is determined by a written exam. Luckily, there are plenty of professional certification programs offered by the likes of Microsoft and Novell. For a homerun, pursue a bachelor of science degree in information technology, information systems, or e-business.
Position: Special Education Teacher
Ballpark increase by 2012: 36 percent
Paycheck: $42,690
Special education teachers work with children who have a variety of disabilities ranging from mental retardation to autism. Most special education teachers instruct students at the elementary, middle, and high school level, though there is a small need for teachers who want to work with infants and toddlers.
The United States requires special education teachers to have a bachelor's degree and be licensed, so those interested in pursuing special education must obtain certification to teach kindergarten through grade 12, then train in a specialty, such as learning disabilities or behavioral disorders.
According to the BLS, all potential teachers must complete an approved teacher preparation program, such as supervised practice teaching. In many states, continuing education is a must, so you may be required to go for extra bases and earn a master's degree.
Position: Paralegal
Ballpark increase by 2012: 35 percent
Paycheck: $37,950
Paralegals are the hitting coaches of the legal world. They help lawyers prepare for closings, hearings, trials, and corporate meetings, as well as investigate the facts of cases. Paralegals may even go so far as to help lawyers prepare legal arguments, draft pleadings and motions to be filed with the court, obtain affidavits, and assist attorneys during trials.
Ever the quintessential switch hitters, paralegals can find work in a number of places and in a variety of ways. Employment can stem from law firms and corporate legal departments to the government, and areas of specialty include litigation, personal injury, corporate law, criminal law, employee benefits, intellectual property, labor law, bankruptcy, immigration, family law, or real estate. While some paralegals benefit from on-the-job training, the BLS suggests that most employers prefer graduates of paralegal education programs.
Position: Management analysts
Ballpark increase by 2012: 35 percent
Paycheck: $60,340
If George Steinbrenner is your hero, you may want to consider a career as a management analyst, as they are the ones who analyze and propose ways to improve an organization's structure, efficiency, and profits. In true world domination fashion, the BLS estimates that 30 percent of all management analysts are self-employed -- about one and a half times the average for other management, business, and financial occupations.
Competition for jobs can rival that of the New York Yankees and Boston Red Socks - so make sure you have your eyes on home plate by pursuing your master's degree and catching as many years of experience as you can. Then make a run for it.
Position: Registered Nurse (RN)
Ballpark increase by 2012: 21 percent
Paycheck: $48,090
The BLS cites RNs as the direct providers of patient care. They observe, assess, and record symptoms, reactions, and progress in patients; assist physicians during surgeries, treatments, and examinations; and administer medications. From the halls of a hospital to the living room of a person's home, those wishing to pursue a career as an RN have a chance to play the field.
In all states, RNs must pass an exam to obtain a nursing license, which must be renewed, and sometimes involves continuing education.
Consider these two paths if you decide to pursue a career as an RN: A bachelor's of science degree in nursing (BSN), completed at a college or university, and an associate degree in nursing (ADN), completed at a community or junior college. BSN programs take about four years to complete, and ADN programs take two or three years to complete.
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