Physical Therapist Assistant

Physical therapy assistants not only help physical therapists provide therapy treatments, but may also aide in the development of treatment plans.  Employment for physical therapy assistants is expected to grow 33 percent in the next decade.  Average annual salary for physical therapist assistants was $46,300 in 2008.*

Veterinary/Animal Health Technology

Demand for veterinarians is projected to increase in the coming years, and employment for veterinary technicians is also projected to grow much faster than average.  In addition to completing a 2- or 4- year veterinary technology program, prospective veterinary technicians must pass a state exam.  Average annual salary for veterinary technologists was $29,850.

Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Ultrasound Technology

Diagnostic medical sonographers  use ultrasound technology to produce images of internal organs that are used by physicians for diagnostic purposes. No only must ultrasound technicians be familiar with equipment, but they must also have an understanding of anatomy and physiology.  Average annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers was $62,660 in 2008.

Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration  Technology

HVAC technology is a growing field that suits those with realistic career interests.  Employment growth will be faster than average, according to projections.  HVAC technicians earned an average annual salary of $42,240 in 2008.

Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications

Within the IT field, network systems analysis and data communications is one of the fastest growing specialties.  An associates degree is a great supplement to work experience or a way to gain the education qualifications required for most IT support jobs.  The average annual salary for computer support specialists was $46,370 in 2008.

Other associates degrees to consider: occupational therapy assistant, surgical technology, and radiologic technology.  If you have a bachelor’s degree or higher, it doesn’t mean you can’t go back to school for an associate’s degree.  Community colleges are full of non-traditional students with a variety of backgrounds, including those with advanced degrees.  A two-year degree can lead to a job that not only pays well, but is also in demand and rewarding.

Teaching is one of the most important jobs in society, and schools are always looking for qualified individuals. Have you always wanted to get a masters degree in teaching but struggled to find the time? A masters in special education can give you the tools you need to succeed, and the opportunity to make a huge difference in a lot of children’s lives.

* Salary information from MyPlan.com

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The following is a guest post by Sarah of

If you find yourself among the millions of college students looking into an uncertain future and trying to choose a career path, you may be at your wit’s end.  Well, you can toss the crystal ball.  Despite economic hardships and the state of our economy, there is one profession that is holding steady and even seems set to gain momentum in the near future.  If you’re seeking a field that will show stability and growth in the years to come, you really should look into a career in nursing.

This noble calling offers a long list of disciplines for people of varying backgrounds.  Whether your strengths lie in realm of the technical or creative (or ideally, both), if your goal is aiding others or education, if you want to travel or stick close to home, or whether you’re interested in helping the public or just one person, nursing can offer career options that suit your talents and desires.  Nurses are needed everywhere.  In public hospitals, private practices, on the road or in a home, from schools to war zones to third world countries, nurses are in demand for help, healing, and education.   With a 2-year (RN) or 4-year (BSN) program and the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) under your belt, you can begin looking for work (although some states or areas of specialization may require further certifications for employment).  And the range of options can include the following: staff nurse at a hospital or private practice, school nurse, travel nurse, private care-giver, or even joining the armed services or the Peace Corps.  And specialization in any number of areas is also a possibility.  In terms of pay, you can expect to make an average salary upwards of about $45,000 (that is the average for a school nurse, one of the lower paying jobs in the nursing profession) unless you plan to do some sort of volunteer service.

And although the health care industry, like every other field, has suffered under the strain of an economic recession, nurses continue to be in high demand, a situation that stands to increase in the near future as baby boomers hit retirement age and millions of uninsured Americans receive coverage under new health care reform legislation.  But even beyond the prospect of an open job market and decent pay, there are certain immeasurable benefits to be gained from a career in nursing.  You will achieve a strong sense of accomplishment from helping others in need, not to mention the bond you’ll form with your patients as you aid in their healing and teach them to better care for themselves.  And devoting your life to helping those in need, as well as the investing in the spirit of giving, can have a profound effect on your personal development and sense of self.  Most nurses agree, the thing that makes it all worthwhile is knowing they made a difference.  And you can, too.

Guest Post by: Sarah of Nursing Programs

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A few healthcare careers for introverts to consider:

Clinical Laboratory Technologist

Medical and clinical laboratory technologists perform tests to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. They analyze samples of body fluids, maintain lab equipment, and help conduct medical research. Half of laboratory technologists have a bachelor’s degree or higher, while 37 percent have some college. The median wage for medical and clinical lab technologists in 2008 was $53,500.*

Medical Records and Health Information Technicians

Medical records and health information technicians process, organize, and maintain records of hospital or clinic patients.  They also review records for accuracy, prepare business or government forms, and transcribe medical reports.  Twelve percent of medical records and health information technicians have a bachelor’s degree or higher, 51 percent have some college, and 37 percent have a high school education or less. The median annual wage for medical records technicians in 2008 was $30,610.

Pharmacist
Pharmacists compound and dispense medications.  They also advise customers on medication dosage, drug interactions, and side effects.  Pharmacy is a good field for introverts because most interaction is one-on-one with customers and patients.  Pharmacists in the United States must now have a doctorate of Pharmacy (PharmD).  The median annual wage for pharmacists was $106,410 in 2008.

Nutritionist

Nutritionists and dietitians develop meal plans based on specific nutritional needs of patients or clients.  They often work with patients that have medical conditions requiring special diets.   The median annual wage for nutritionists and dietitians in 2008 was $50,590.  To see the requirements for becoming a registered dietitian, visit the Becoming an RD page at eatright.org.

Introverts shouldn’t feel limited to working alone.  One-on-one interaction fulfills an introvert’s social needs without draining his or her energy.  Introverts can even enjoy working with many different people throughout the day if they have down-time before or after work.   Introversion is only one component of personality, and personality is just one of many factors to consider when choosing a career.

*Salary and education information from O*NET

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Related Posts:

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See larger image Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking (Kindle Edition) By (author) Susan Cain List Price: $26.00 USD Release date January 24, 2012.

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Accounting and Finance:

Extroverts are more likely to prefer management positions while introverts will prefer to stay behind the scenes doing research or financial analysis. Extroverts also make good entrepreneurs because they can make connections easily. Extroverts can enroll in a traditional university program for accounting and finance, and there are opportunities for introverts to attend online masters degree programs.

Introvert jobs: credit analyst, financial analyst, staff  accountant

Extrovert jobs:  personal financial adviser, financial manager, financial services sales agent

Marketing and Sales:

A reader commenting on a previous post mentioned that she loves the creativity used in marketing but she feels overwhelmed as an introvert. For creative introverts, marketing can be a good field if you choose a job that allows for some quiet time to concentrate.

Introvert jobs: market research analyst, web/internet marketing analyst, marketing copywriter

Extrovert jobs: advertising sales agent, public relations specialist, marketing manager*

*Marketing manager can be a great job for both introverts and extroverts, depending on the responsibilities of a particular position. Some marketing managers focus a large portion of their time on research and designing promotional material. Presentation and communication skills are essential for marketing management, but extroversion is not.

Information Technology:

You may think that only introverts would enjoy computer-related occupations, but extroverts can actually excel in jobs that require good marketing and public relations skills. Introverts will probably enjoy work within an organization where they can remain in the background working on projects without worrying too much about promoting their ideas or products.

Introvert jobs: software engineer, computer systems analyst

Extrovert jobs: independent web developer/designer, professional tech blogger, entrepreneur

If you’re interested in the Information Technology field, you could consider getting information assurance training online to stand out from the rest.

Education:

You might be surprised to learn that many teachers consider themselves introverts. Don’t rule teaching out if you are introverted because many teaching jobs allow for down-time between classes. If you are interested in teaching a certain subject, don’t let your personality stop you.

Introvert jobs: librarian, school psychologist, guidance counselor, college professor

Extrovert jobs: elementary school teacher, education administrator

Health care:

Empathy and patience are two important traits for health care workers to have. Introverts are often very sensitive and contemplative, making them excellent candidates for many jobs the health care field. Extroverts usually do well in jobs that require both good interpersonal skills and stamina.

Introvert jobs: pharmacist, anesthesiologist, family physician, nutritionist, home health nurse

Extrovert jobs: emergency medical technician, physical therapist, emergency room nurse

For more research about personality and career choice read Career Match: Connecting Who You Are with What You’ll Love to Do

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See larger image Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking (Hardcover) By (author) Susan Cain List Price: $26.00 USD New From: $11.94 In Stock Used from: $12.18 In Stock Release date January 24, 2012.

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1. Audiologist

Audiologists evaluate hearing, diagnose hearing disorders, and fit patients with hearing aids. They may also provide auditory training and perform research. Patience is an important characteristic for an audiologist to have because you will be working with elderly patients and children. In addition, you may work with other professionals (speech pathologists, physicians, etc.) to plan a patient’s treatment. An undergraduate degree in communication sciences/disorders will provide the necessary coursework for admittance to an audiology graduate program. A clinical doctoral degree is becoming the standard requirement for audiologists. See The American Academy of Audiology’s website for more information.

2. Optometrist

Optometrists diagnose and treat diseases and conditions related to the eye. They perform vision tests and prescribe corrective lenses. Although optometrists do not perform surgery, they may prescribe medication to treat eye conditions if state law allows. Those wishing to obtain a doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree will need to take a variety science courses as undergraduates in order to be admitted to one of the sixteen optometry schools in the United States. The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry provides information about optometry education.

3. Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists provide rehabilitative therapy to emotionally, mentally, and physically disabled patients. Therapy involves learning daily living skills that helps patients lead productive and independent lives. They may also help patients compensate for a permanent loss of function. Occupational therapists work in schools, hospitals, nursing care facilities, and clinics. A master’s degree is required in order to practice. See the American Occupational Therapy Association for more details.

4. Radiologic Technologist

Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging examinations and administer radiation therapy. This not only requires knowledge of anatomy, proper patient positioning, and safety protocols, but also an empathetic and caring nature. See the American Society of Radiologic Technologists for more information about the profession and education requirements.

5. Medical Laboratory Technologist

Medical Laboratory Technologists (also known as clinical laboratory technologists) perform laboratory tests for diagnosis and treatment of diseases. They analyze blood, urine, and other bodily fluids, looking for abnormalities. Laboratory technologists also analyze blood samples to test for blood type and compatibility for transfusion, among other things. If you are interested in science, enjoy working with laboratory equipment, and have an investigative personality type, this may be a good career choice for you. See the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science for more information.

Read Top 100 Health Care Careers: Your Complete Guidebook To Training And Jobs In Allied Health, Nursing, Medicine, And More for more on healthcare career options.

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