How to switch fields in under two years

 

Quick training programs can help launch you in one of six rewarding careers.

Quick-Start Careers That Pay

Start getting paid fast with these hot jobs you can train for in 1-2 years.

By Jennifer Berry
Are you feeling stuck in a job you hate? Floundering in a job search that isn't going anywhere?
Don't despair: a quick training program could provide the jolt you need to find the right career.
There is no time like the present to explore your options for going back to school. With many schools offering rolling admissions and even online instruction, it's never been easier to get started.
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With the right training, you could be prepared for a new career in just one to two years. That's a small investment in time that could reap big rewards over the length of your career.
Check out these six solid careers - and learn how you can train for them.

Career #1 - Human Resources Assistant

For a stable, rewarding career that you can train for quickly, consider a career in human resources. As a human resources assistant, you'll be responsible for maintaining important information about your organization's employees - like their earnings, health and life insurance plans, and tax withholdings.
Quick training: You can earn your associate's degree in human resources in two years. If you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, you can earn a certificate in human resources in just one year.
Good pay: The average annual salary for human resources assistants is $37,840. The top ten percent average at $53,160 a year.
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Career #2 - Paralegal

Intrigued by the law? Train for an in-demand career as a paralegal in less than a year. The U.S. Department of Labor expects paralegal jobs to grow 28 percent from 2008 to 2018. As a paralegal, you may prepare arguments, obtain affidavits, and help lawyers prepare for cases.
Quick training: Do you already have a bachelor's degree? If so, you might be able to earn a certificate in paralegal studies in just a few months. If not, consider earning your associate's degree in two years.
Good pay: Paralegals have an average annual salary of $50,080. The highest ten percent earn more than $75,000.
[Search for Paralegal training programs near you now]

Career #3 - Medical Assistant

The U.S. Department of Labor lists health care as one of the fastest-growing industries in our country. Take part in this boom by training to become a medical assistant in two years or less. As a medical assistant, you'll handle office tasks, take patient medical histories...you might even perform basic laboratory tests.
Quick training: You can earn a certificate or diploma in about one year. Another quick training option is an associate's degree in medical assisting, which you can complete in about two years. Even in quick training programs, you'll build a variety of skills to help you in your new career, including transcription and insurance processing.
Good pay: Medical assistants have an average annual salary of $29,450. The top ten percent have an average annual salary of $39,970.
[Search for Medical Assistant training programs near you now]

Career #4 - Bookkeeper

Join the 2.1 million bookkeepers who are working today with a quick accounting training program. The U.S. Department of Labor projects a 10 percent jump in opportunities through 2018. As a bookkeeper, you'll handle financial records like taxes, accounts payable and receivable, and payroll.
Quick training: Prepare to step into this field by earning an associate's degree in just two years. You'll study subjects like accounting and familiarize yourself with the latest computer software that the job requires.
Good pay: Bookkeepers, who work in every industry imaginable, have an average annual salary of $34,750. The top ten percent can make more than $50,450 a year.
[Search for Accounting or Business training programs near you now]

Career #5 - Dental Assistant

Want to get hired as a dental assistant? Well, what are you waiting for? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, jobs for dental assistants are expected to grow 36 percent through 2018. As a dental assistant, you'll make appointments, sterilize equipment, and help dentists during procedures.
Quick training: You can earn a certificate in dental assisting in just one year, or an associate's degree in two years. Many training programs focus on a dental assistant's daily duties, including how to interact with patients and how to help keep the dental office running smoothly.
Good pay: Dental assistants have an average annual salary of $34,000. The top ten percent can average at more than $47,070 a year.
[Search for Dental Assisting training programs near you now]

Career #6 - Registered Nurse

If you feel the calling to become a registered nurse, you can train for this rewarding profession in two years or less. It's a smart career move too...the U.S. Department of Labor expects job opportunities to soar 22 percent through 2018. As a nurse, you'll work with patients, run diagnostic tests, and administer medications.
Quick training: Earn an associate's degree or certificate in nursing in just two to three years. If you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, you can enroll in an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program to earn your degree in just 12-18 months.
Good pay: Registered nurses have an average annual salary of $66,530. The top ten percent average at $93,700 a year.

 

News Source: Yahoo