Apparently, a lot of people don’t like their jobs. On the reality TV show, “Undercover Boss,” it’s funny – sometimes outlandish – to listen to under-appreciated employees complain to each other about the corporate culture … but the truth is: NOT liking your job is a serious issue. It causes stress, depression, and can totally ruin a whole family’s dynamics. Our goal in this brief article is to identify the 7 fastest growing jobs with an AA Degree. (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Handbook, 2012.) These jobs are all projected to grow by over 29% through the year 2020 (this is WAY above average job growth), with Veterinary Aides showing the most growth, at 52%, and Dental Hygienists paying the most, at $68,000 per year. Check out all 7 job titles, including job descriptions, salaries, and experience needed.
Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians and Vascular Technologists
2010 Median Pay $49,410 per year/$23.75 per hour
Entry-Level Education AA Degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training None
Number of Jobs, 2010 49,400
Job Outlook, 2010-20 29% (Much faster than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 14,500
Description
Cardiovascular technologists and technicians and vascular technologists use imaging technology to help physicians diagnose cardiac (heart) and peripheral vascular (blood vessel) ailments in patients. They also help physicians treat problems with cardiac and vascular systems, such as blood clots.
Requirements
There are several ways to become a cardiovascular technologist or technician or vascular technologist. Although some technologists and technicians are trained on the job, most most fall in the category of jobs with an AA Degree.
Dental Hygienists
2010 Median Pay $68,250 per year/$32.81 per hour
Entry-Level Education AA Degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training None
Number of Jobs, 2010 181,800
Job Outlook, 2010-20 38% (Much faster than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 68,500
Description
Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases such as gingivitis, and provide other preventative dental care. They also educate patients on ways to improve and maintain good oral health.
Requirements
Requirements for Dental hygienists are jobs with an AA Degree in dental hygiene. Every state requires dental hygienists to be licensed; requirements vary by state.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
2010 Median Pay $64,380 per year/$30.95 per hour
Entry-Level Education AA Degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training None
Number of Jobs, 2010 53,700
Job Outlook, 2010-20 44% (Much faster than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 23,400
Description
Diagnostic medical sonographers use special imaging equipment that directs sound waves into a patient’s body (in a procedure commonly known as an ultrasound, sonogram, or echocardiogram) to assess and diagnose various medical conditions.
Requirements
Diagnostic medical sonographers need formal education, such as an AA Degree or a postsecondary certificate. Many employers also require professional certification.
Medical Equipment Repairers
2010 Median Pay $44,490 per year/$21.39 per hour
Entry-Level Education AA Degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training Moderate-term on-the-job training
Number of Jobs, 2010 37,900
Job Outlook, 2010-20 31% (Much faster than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 11,900
Description
Medical equipment repairers install, maintain, and repair patient care equipment.
Requirements
Employers generally prefer candidates who have an AA Degree in biomedical technology or engineering. Depending on the area of specialization, a bachelor’s degree may be needed, especially for advancement.
Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides
2010 Median Pay $47,490 per year/$22.83 per hour
Entry-Level Education See How to Become One
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training See How to Become One
Number of Jobs, 2010 36,000
Job Outlook, 2010-20 41% (Much faster than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 14,800
Description
Occupational therapy assistants and aides work under the direction of occupational therapists in treating patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Requirements
Becoming an occupational therapy assistant requires an AA Degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program. In most states, occupational therapy assistants must be licensed. Occupational therapy aides typically have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides
2010 Median Pay $37,710 per year/$18.13 per hour
Entry-Level Education See How to Become One
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training See How to Become One
Number of Jobs, 2010 114,400
Job Outlook, 2010-20 45% (Much faster than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 51,100
Description
Physical therapist assistants and physical therapist aides work under the direction of physical therapists. They help patients who are recovering from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries regain movement and manage pain.
Requirements
Most states require physical therapist assistants to have an AA Degree from an accredited physical therapist program. Physical therapist aides generally have a high school diploma and receive on-the-job training.
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
2010 Median Pay $29,710 per year/$14.28 per hour
Entry-Level Education AA Degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training None
Number of Jobs, 2010 80,200
Job Outlook, 2010-20 52% (Much faster than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 41,700
Description
Veterinary technologists and technicians perform medical tests under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian to treat or to help veterinarians diagnose the illnesses and injuries of animals.
Requirements
Veterinary technologists and technicians must complete a postsecondary program in veterinary technology. Technologists need a 4-year bachelor’s degree, and technicians need a 2-year AA Degree. Typically, both technologists and technicians must take a credentialing exam and must become registered, licensed, or certified, depending on the state.