Strategies

Going to college represents a piece of the American dream. Students can expand their minds, learn new skills, meet new people, and enjoy intellectual, social, and cultural experiences they might otherwise not have a chance to experience. But it also represents an opportunity for students to improve themselves by preparing for employment after college.

Advantages of attending a community college

The advantages of attending a community college are numerous.

• You can graduate sooner, usually in just two years.
• The skills you acquire are often immediately applicable to the workplace, making you an attractive candidate for fast employment. Community college is much less expensive than four-year institutions, meaning that more of the money you begin to earn goes into your pocket and not towards paying off student loans.
• Many of the most in-demand jobs are those that require only an associate’s degree. An added bonus is that a number of these jobs offer excellent income potential, with starting salaries for many of these in-demand occupations in the $40,000-$50,000 range. Some jobs even offer the potential to earn a six-figure salary with just a community college degree!

The trick is to find something that you are both passionate about and that will allow you to earn a comfortable living. Unfortunately, not everyone’s passion will be in a career area that is growing quickly, or that pays well. However, if you have an interest in a job in the medical field, you are certainly in luck because

A two-year degree can launch a lucrative career in a variety of industries today. For those looking for the best job stability and security after college, high-growth careers are a good option. These fields are predicted to enjoy faster than average growth over the next few years, ensuring more jobs will be available for those trained to move into positions. Check out these high-growth jobs you can land with a two-year degree to determine which career is right for you.

Nurse

The field of nursing is one of the hottest in terms of growth right now, according to Yahoo Education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts this field will grow by 26 percent through 2018. As the baby boomer population ages, the need for health care workers, particularly nurses, will continue to increase. Many enter this field with an associate degree in nursing and vocational certification. The average annual salary for a registered nurse is $60,010.

Dental Hygienist

Yahoo Finance states that the predicted job growth for dental hygienists through 2018 is a whopping 38 percent. This field also offers excellent income potential, with an average annual salary of around $68,000. Many earning that amount work part-time hours. More dental hygienists will be needed as the demand for high-quality dental care increases across the United States. Most dental hygienists enter the field with a two-year associate degree.

Medical Coder

Medical coders and medical information technicians maintain patient records

Make this year your most lucrative year yet, by launching a degree program in one of the hottest career fields out there. Some of the most in-demand positions of this decade can be landed with a two-year degree from your local community college. Training is relatively short and cost-effective, and the potential in some of these fields provides plenty of prospects for the future. Check out the best careers that you can start with an associate degree.

Dental Hygienist

Still holding the top spot as one of the most promising careers of the decade, the job of a dental hygienist involves working directly with patients to provide education and preventative care. Dental hygienists typically work in the offices of dentists or orthodontists, keeping regular office hours. Many work part-time with flexible scheduling and job-sharing options available. According to U.S. News and World Report, the average annual salary for a dental hygienist is $69,280, and the outlook for job growth is excellent as more dentists add hygienists to their staff in order to increase the patient load.

Real Estate Appraiser

According to MyKelly.com, both commercial and residential real estate appraisers should enjoy significant job growth over the next few years. This position involves assessing all types of properties to determine the current value for resale or financing purposes. Appraisers must have a solid understanding of real estate principles and practices, as well as basic processes involved in appraisals and property sales. MyKelly.com

When most people dream of a high-paying profession, the thought of years of schooling also comes to mind. The perception is that in order to earn more, you must study more to prepare for your career. However, plenty of six-figure jobs are available to those with a community college degree as well. While not all of these positions earn a high salary as a starting point, many working in the profession can work their way up to six figures through dedication and hard work. Check out these six-figure jobs you can land with a community college degree.

Air Traffic Controller

While many air traffic controllers launch their careers with a four-year degree, community college options also appear for this position. Community College of Beaver County offers a two-year program in air traffic control that prepares students for the job of control tower operator. The school boasts a student-staffed control tower to give students on-the-job training while earning their degrees. According to CB Salary, the average annual salary for an air traffic controller is $109,850.

This video reports on air traffic controller training at Community College of Baltimore County, Catonsville.

Personal Trainer

Those with a passion for fitness and health may find their calling as a personal trainer. According to KDVR, personal trainers that are willing to work hard and provide flexibility in scheduling to their clients can easily make a