Choosing a Major: Most in Demand Professions for the Next Decade

The world is changing fast, like never before. Some jobs live out their last years while new forward-looking professions are growing in strength. Forbes has published top-20 disappearing jobs, among which you will find typists, computer operators, and postal carriers. But when the progress closes the door, it opens a window somewhere.

For those who are deciding what university to enroll in and what major to choose, there are plenty of career options that will be in great demand for the next decade and more. This article might give you some ideas and nudge you in the right direction of choosing a future profession or changing the current one.

IT

As you have probably guessed, careers in IT top the list. Since more and more areas of life become digitized and lots of tasks get outsourced to smart devices, the labor market welcomes specialists who can build and maintain systems, operate various devices and networks, provide information security, and analyze tons of data. That’s why developers, cybersecurity specialists, data experts, and other IT professionals are actively sought after by both corporations and small startups.

Developers (Web, Software, Mobile)

There are web, software, and mobile developers. In general, developers are responsible for writing efficient code, creating software/mobile applications, managing programs, upgrading existing systems, and evaluating the new ones.

Main degrees needed: bachelor or higher degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related one.

However, a university degree is not enough. You will also need to complete various, sometimes more focused courses online to really master the profession. But the struggle is worth it. And to free some time from your main curriculum, you can outsource certain assignments, for example, something less relevant as writing papers, etc. to sites like essayservice.com.

Cybersecurity Experts (Architects, Engineers, Managers)

Cybersecurity is substantial in the age of technologies; that’s why experts in this field can land the best and the highest paying positions available. Cybersecurity manager’s paramount aim is to protect the information, detect threats, and prevent cyber attacks. They plan and implement certain measures on all networks and information systems, prevent risks, and deliver personnel training.

Main degrees needed: bachelor or higher degree in cybersecurity, cybercrime, or a related one.

Data Experts (Engineers, Analysts, Scientists)

As a data expert, you will create and maintain computer systems for storing large quantities of data, design databases (as an engineer), and seek and interpret data sources (as an analyst), depending on the chosen career.

Main degrees needed: bachelor or higher degree in computer science, information technology, or statistics.

Education

Unlike other professions that appear, evolve, and with time lose its relevance, an educator remains one of the oldest and most valuable occupations. There is a large number of options for those who associate a future career with teaching. Depending on your preference, you may choose any subject (math, history, biology, etc.), level (preschool, school, college), and format (group, individual, online). Teaching can be fun if you work with kids, and elaborate if you teach STEM. It’s up to you to choose what gives you the most joy.

Early Childhood Education Experts

For those who love kids, there are also many professions in early childhood education: nannies, private tutors, preschool teachers, daycare workers, and teacher assistants. Childhood education workers are and will be in-demand since early child development is crucial, and many parents are unable to give it enough time and effort due to work.

Main degrees needed: associate (2 years) or bachelor (4 years) degree in early childhood education; for positions in administration – master and higher degrees.

Special Needs Education Experts

As children with physical and mental disabilities are becoming more involved in an inclusive environment, a teacher’s goal is to address all students’ needs following the requirements of adaptive learning. To do so, a special skill set and a degree in special education are required.

Main degrees needed: bachelor or higher degree in special education.

Healthcare

Life expectancy is increasing, and medicine is evolving rapidly, but so do diseases. Along with doctors who undoubtedly can’t be replaced, registered nurses are in high demand. So if you enjoy taking care of people and get excited when your effort brings results – healthcare is definitely for you.

Registered Nurses

Registered nurses administer primary health care and medical treatments, monitor patients, keep medical records, and provide emotional support. They work in operating rooms, physician’s offices, hospitals, and other healthcare institutions.

Main degrees needed: nursing license.

Bottom Line

It is undoubtedly important to track the tendencies of the labor market and choose a profession that will not lose its relevance over several years. But careers in demand shouldn’t be the main and only criterion that will help define your future occupation. Also consider your talents, prospects, and skills, to find a vocation and not just a job.

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