What professions will be in demand in the future

Which professions will be in demand in 15-20 years?

The foundry of the Petrostal metallurgical works incorporated in the Kirovsky Zavod machine building plant. Source: Alexei Danichev / RIA Novosti

In April 2015 the Russian Agency of Strategic Initiatives (ASI) released the second edition of the Atlas of Future Professions, a list of specializations that will be in demand in the country’s economy in the next 15-20 years. The Russian method of predicting future professions has officially been accepted by the International Labor Organization.

ASI, established in 2011 by the Russian government, is a non-profit organization whose aim as stated on the official website is to «create opportunities for the self-realization of young ambitious leaders.»

The atlas includes more than 200 professions in 25 fields, as well as necessary future competencies and the universities that will offer a basic education for these fields. The list also features predictions of the type of employers and professions that will begin disappearing within the next five years.

According to Pavel Lushka, the project’s author and a professor at the Skolkovo Moscow School of Management, similar atlases exist in other countries, such as Canada and Brazil, but the Russian index, in terms of the number of professions listed, is the most comprehensive one.

Lushka said that the atlas was compiled by more than 4,000 leaders in 25 fields that «take part in the strategy development process of their companies» and «understand the development map of their fields.» Among the future professions on the list are «virtual lawyer,» «construction eco-analyst,» «household work designer,» «healthy attire expert» and dozens of other specializations that have not yet appeared on the Russian market.

However, Lushka remarked that not all of these professions will be needed in other countries since «the demand for professions is determined by the fact that each country’s economy and training system has its own pattern of development.»

Outmoded professions

Professions that will be retired by 2020 include accountant, surveyor, credit manager, statistician, stenographer, copywriter, corrector, photo editor, librarian, lector, tour agent and tester.

Professions that will retire after 2020 include legal consultant, notary public, tour guide, analyst, journalist, sports commentator, secretary, translator, logistician, diagnostician, systems administrator, dispatcher, navigator and pharmacist.

«For example, in Germany industry is switching to fully automated production, which adjusts itself,” Lushka said. “And they have their own process of developing specialists that are needed for this fully automated production. For Russia or Brazil these professions still have no relevance.»

Another example according to Lushka is that of the medical institutions marketing specialist. “In Russia the share of private medicine is extremely small and there are practically no private clinic networks when compared to industrially developed countries,” he says. “However, in the U.S. this profession has existed for decades now.»

At the root of the method used in compiling the Russian Professions Atlas lies «foresight,» a social technology that helps participants make a joint prediction of the development of the professional fields, regions and countries and then use the prediction to decide which actions should be taken in order to achieve the desired outcome.

Professions of the future

A smart roads builder is a specialist that selects and installs adaptable road surfaces, layouts and road signs with radiofrequency identification, surveillance systems and sensors for verifying the condition of the road.

A construction eco-analyst is a specialist that analyzes a construction plan with an eye to its impact on ecology and consults with companies on the selection of the least hazardous solutions for building in a given environment.

A household work designer is a specialist that develops and programs household work performed by such laborers as a robot-babysitter, a robot-cleaner, a robot-washer, a robot-gardener or a robot-dog walker.

A systems bio-technician is a specialist that replaces old solutions in various fields with new products in the biotechnology field. For example, this expert could help transportation companies change from diesel to bio fuel and construction companies in introducing new biomaterials to replace cement and concrete.

A meteo-energy specialist is a professional that optimizes the use of power generating systems in certain climactic conditions. This specialist predicts the level of energy production using long-term weather forecasts.

An urban planner ecologist designs new cities based on ecological biotechnologies. This specialist works in the fields of construction, energy and pollution control. This profession is already in demand. High technology «green cities» are being designed and built in Malaysia, China, the United Arab Emirates, India, South Korea and several European countries.

A territory architect is a specialist that creates information landscapes for tourists with respect to the region’s reality, consumer types and popular destinations.

A science artist is a professional that in their creative activity utilizes scientific data and knowledge. Science-art is not only practiced by independent artists, but is also supported by major educational institutes, such as MIT, which has a Science, Art and Technology Center.

A game master is a specialist in the development and organization of educational games (business, historical, fantasy, etc.) and in the use of simulators in games.

Which Jobs Will Be In Demand In The Next 10 Years?

The Fourth Industrial Revolution is changing the work landscape across all industries, worldwide. The World Economic Forum reports that this could see the displacement of 75 million jobs due to the adoption of new technologies and structural changes in the labour market. 1 However, it’s not all doom and gloom, as the simultaneous emergence of 133 million new jobs has also been predicted. 2 The key is to carve a career path that takes advantage of these technological changes but can’t be replaced by them.

By 2030, roles in office support, food service, production and machine operations, and mechanical installation and repairs will have all but disappeared in the US, 3 with similar trends happening in South Africa and the rest of the world. The jobs that will continue to be in demand include health professionals, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) specialists, creatives, managers, and those in education or workforce training. 4

You can also expect a rise in jobs that don’t exist yet to meet new or growing needs, such as climate change and environmental issues, or to cater to the longer life expectancy of the global population. Imagine a career change to become a solar power or wind turbine specialist, 5 or reinventing yourself as an urban farmer. 6 Those are recognisable professions with a niche twist, but there are predictions that future roles such as AI psychologist, drone manager, or a quantum data analyst will also exist. 7 There should also be significant growth in health and wellness professionals that can assist in taking care of an aging population, keeping everyone fit and healthy, and offering the special care and bedside manners missing from machines and robots. 8

Are you building in-demand skills for the jobs of the future?

While it’s impossible to predict the future course of each and every job in the workplace, there are certain capabilities that can help safeguard your future career if not your current role. Tech and finance skills will still be in high demand, 9 but there’ll also be a need for soft skills that cannot be automated. These include emotional intelligence for communication and conflict resolution; critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation; and even basic social skills, such as friendliness and the ability to make small talk. 10

Before you start to map out your 10-year career goals, it helps to understand these workplace changes and what forces will have the biggest impact on organisations. Then you can adapt that plan to get yourself job-ready.

Five fundamental forces affecting the professional landscape of the future: 11

1. Organisational rearrangement will change job demand

Organisations will become more flexible and transparent, with a focus on project-based relationships and business sustainability. Leadership will become more horizontal and shared as increased social and external collaborations break down the traditional hierarchical model.

Important job roles:

Will you move up into management?

With Business Insider listing “general and operations managers” as the third highest-paid professionals in the future, 12 it’s a good idea to build a skill set now that could put you ahead of the game in the management industry.

Currently, the second-most difficult positions for South African businesses to fill are management and executive roles – a trend that’s predicted to continue for the next 10 years. 13 Which means you could be the working professional who fills that gap – whether that’s optimising and refining business processes through an integrated improvement methodology, navigating the project-based approach of future organisational structures, or offering operational expertise.

2. An increasingly global and diverse talent pool will shape job creation

The workforce will become increasingly multigenerational and diverse, while the workspace will become more flexible and agile. There will be a need to modify policies, salaries, benefits, and office layouts to accommodate the needs of the new professional.

Important job roles:

Are you the talent management professional of the future?

A growing multigenerational workforce requires a more flexible and adaptable approach to manage and retain talent. 14 Each generation will have their own motivations and ways of working, but you can’t rely on stereotypes to encourage productivity or inspire loyalty.

If you start to develop a strong portfolio of skills now, you could become a key facilitator in retaining and engaging the diverse workforce of the future, while also managing and implementing changes within the workplace.

3. A connected world will change the way you work

As virtual devices enable workplace interactions and communication to happen anywhere, at any time, job roles and careers become increasingly redefined to fit into these boundaryless models.

Important job roles:

Is cloud computing the career for you?

Leaders within the IT industry believe that the ongoing growth of cloud-based services will create a myriad of job opportunities in the future, with the majority of companies using some form of cloud computing. In fact, demand has risen 108 per cent in recent years. 15 As more and more businesses implement cloud servers, there will also be a need for cybersecurity measures to be put in place to manage risk.

This means there are a number of opportunities for you to branch into this industry – developing the skills you need to create an interconnected workspace, getting the expertise to develop and manage cloud computing software, or learning how to protect your future company from inevitable cyber threats.

4. Adapt to rapid technological change

Artificial intelligence (AI), robots, autonomous vehicles, and the Internet of Things is reshaping the world of work. Today’s ecosystem demands a workforce who can handle uncertainty, adapt to frequent changes, engage with automation and develop their knowledge when certain skills become obsolete.

Deloitte reports that smart professionals and business leaders will be looking for ways that technological advances can deliver business value and competitive advantage. 16

Important job roles:

Do you want to take your tech skills into healthcare?

Naturally, this growth has and will continue to create a demand for staff and faculty who have experience and knowledge within this field. It means you have an opportunity to start developing your tech skills in order to have a significant impact on the healthcare industry of the future.

5. How collaboration between humans and robots will change the professional environment

As big data, analytics, and AI take over work that was previously performed by humans, new job roles will start to open up. These will be focused on skills such as monitoring, creating, operating, or designing automated and online processes.

Important job roles:

Could you be the next online course developer?

The ability to implement and develop online courses and programmes, or utilise online learning techniques for corporate training, is going to make you an invaluable asset to the workforce in the years to come.

Lifelong learning is key to career development

Take action: Education and an attitude of lifelong learning is going to become more crucial than ever. The World Economic Forum has identified education as the number one way to prepare for the next two decades of work. By constantly learning new skills, updating your current abilities, or experimenting in different industries, you’ll be as prepared as possible to adapt your career to meet the job roles of the future.

15 High-Paying Jobs That Are in Demand for the Future

You want to pursue a career in a field you’re excited about. But if you’re like most people, you also want to go down a path that’s going to provide lucrative opportunities—not just right now but for years (or decades!) to come—and that means choosing a high-paying job that’s in demand today and will continue to be in demand for the foreseeable future.

But how do you know what types of jobs are going to provide those opportunities—both today and five or 10 years down the line? Fortunately, you don’t have to guess. Every year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics releases employment projections for growth both overall and for each individual occupation over a period of 10 years. Nothing is ever certain—and the most recent projections, which use models based on historical data through 2019, don’t take into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—but the BLS growth predictions can give you a good sense of the long-term trajectory of a huge range of roles.

SEARCH OPEN JOBS ON THE MUSE! See who’s hiring here, and you can even filter your search by benefits, company size, remote opportunities, and more. Then, sign up for our newsletter and we’ll deliver advice on landing the job right to you.

Actuaries typically work for insurance companies and are responsible for evaluating risk. Actuaries use math, data, and statistics to determine whether their employer should issue a policy to a potential customer—whether that’s an individual or a business—and, if they determine a policy should be issued, what the premium should be. Actuaries make evaluations regarding health, life, automobile, homeowners, medical malpractice, and workers’ compensation insurance, as well as retirement benefits and other investments.

A degree in actuarial science (which focuses on using math and statistical modeling to assess risk) or a related field (such as math or statistics) is a must. Plus, actuaries need to pass a series of rigorous exams over the course of several years in order to be certified to do the job by the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) or the Society of Actuaries (SOA).

Industrial engineers are in the business of optimization and efficiency. They use math, statistics, science, and engineering principles to evaluate people, systems, and processes within a business—including supply chains, operations, finance, and machinery or equipment. Their goal is to figure out the most effective way to integrate the systems and processes needed to create a product or service. They ensure businesses keep costs low and productivity high and hit organizational goals (for example, shipping a new product by a certain deadline or optimizing shipping and delivery operations).

In order to succeed as an industrial engineer, a bachelor’s in industrial engineering or a related field is a must—and many industrial engineers go on to pursue advanced degrees.

Data scientists create the frameworks that allow companies to collect, organize, and analyze data—and then leverage that data to make better decisions for their business. Depending on business needs, the job can include everything from running data experiments, implementing statistical models and algorithms, developing data products, and optimizing frameworks to increase efficacy and drive better business outcomes.

Data science is a highly technical, data-heavy role—and, as such, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, statistics, math, engineering, or a related field is typically a job requirement (and many companies prefer their data scientists hold an advanced degree).

Information systems managers (also known as IS managers) are responsible for designing and, yes, managing the information systems within an organization. They typically hold a senior-level role within a company’s information technology (IT) department and are tasked with evaluating a company’s current technology, staying up-to-date on available upgrades and best practices, developing an information systems strategy or plan, making recommendations on everything from hardware to software to security, and overseeing a team to implement their plans and recommendations. So for instance, an IS manager might weigh the costs and benefits of a new piece of software, pitch their recommendation to executives or other decision makers, get it installed efficiently across the organization, and oversee maintenance and security for it going forward.

IS managers need a deep understanding of information systems and, as such, they typically hold at least a bachelor’s degree in a tech-related field (like computer science or information technology).

Information security analysts are responsible for keeping a company’s information safe and secure—a top priority for most companies at a time when so much sensitive information is shared and stored digitally. Information security analysts are responsible for everything from researching and testing security solutions, evaluating a company’s current digital security processes, identifying and fixing vulnerabilities, managing security threats or breaches, and developing and implementing security solutions and technologies (such as by overseeing the installation of firewalls and the use of data encryption).

Information security analysts need to know the ins and outs of all things cybersecurity and typically hold a bachelor’s degree (or higher!) in a technology-related field, such as computer science.

As the title implies, financial managers are responsible for managing an organization’s finances. Financial managers may be employed directly by a company or they may work for a consulting firm, where they tackle financial management for the firm’s clients. Depending on the company or client’s needs, a financial manager may be responsible for a variety of finance-related tasks, including identifying financial weaknesses or risks; developing solutions to eliminate those weaknesses or risks; performing financial research; creating financial projections and reports; preparing financial statements; setting financial goals; providing suggestions for how the company or client can hit those financial goals; and suggesting ways to reduce costs, increase profits, or expand into new markets.

Financial management requires an in-depth knowledge of business finance—which they might’ve gained as accountants or financial analysts, for example—and candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or a related field to get started.

Registered nurses (also called RNs) provide medical care and support to patients in a variety of settings (including hospitals, doctor’s offices, surgery centers, nursing care facilities, schools, or patients’ homes) and across specialties (such as emergency care, pediatrics, or oncology). Depending on where they work, their area of specialization, and their patients’ needs, nurses may manage a wide variety of patient-related tasks, from monitoring vital signs to administering medication to assisting with surgeries. They also take medical histories, update medical records, monitor equipment, and teach and communicate with patients.

To launch a career as an RN, you’ll need to get an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing and pass a licensing exam before you can start working and seeing patients.

A physician assistant (also known as a PA) is a licensed medical professional who provides routine patient care. Just like a medical doctor (MD), a physician assistant can examine, diagnose, and treat patients; prescribe medication; and develop treatment plans. But unlike doctors, who work independently, PAs must be supervised by an MD. PAs can work in a variety of settings (including doctors’ offices and hospitals) and within different specialties (from primary care to surgery).

A career as a physician assistant starts with a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field, followed by a master’s degree program (often called “PA school”), a national certification exam, and licensing (requirements vary by state).

As the title suggests, sales engineers hold a hybrid role that incorporates elements of both sales and engineering. Sales engineers typically work for companies that sell complex technology products or services to clients. Sales engineers work with the client to evaluate their systems and develop custom solutions to fit each client’s individual needs. They play a role in presenting and pitching to clients; closing and renewing deals; installing software or equipment; and providing support once the technology is in use.

Because sales engineers need an in-depth knowledge of science, technology, and engineering principles in order to successfully do their job, candidates typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering to get their foot in the door (although some opportunities will require a master’s degree).

Technical writers take complex technical ideas and translate them into language people can easily read and understand—whether that’s in the form of journal articles, educational materials, video scripts, tutorials, instruction manuals, or FAQ pages. That means they need to interact with the people designing and creating the relevant products or equipment, for example, in order to understand the ins and outs of what they’re writing about and determine what kind of documentation is necessary. Their audience might be colleagues within their own organization, clients, customers, or the general public.

Technical writers often hold degrees in English, communications, or a related field. In order to succeed as a technical writer, you’ll also need a deep understanding of computer science, engineering, medicine, or whichever specific technical field you’re writing about (in some cases, that might come in the form of a degree or prior work experience in that field).

Software developers (also known as software engineers) design, code, test, and develop software, whether that’s an enterprise software solution serving a giant corporation or a consumer-facing mobile app used by individuals.

The most important thing you’ll need to succeed as a software developer is coding skills. So, whether you learn to code through a degree program, a coding bootcamp, or by teaching yourself, for most gigs, it doesn’t really matter; as long as you have the skills—and can prove it during a technical interview—you should be able to land a job.

Marketing managers are responsible for getting the word out about a product, service, event, brand, etc.—and convincing customers that it’s worth purchasing, attending, following, etc. Some marketing managers are generalists while others specialize in one type of marketing (such as content marketing, email marketing, social media marketing, e-commerce, or search engine optimization and marketing)—and lead the charge in developing, implementing, and optimizing strategies and campaigns to increase awareness, connect with customers, and drive sales or other conversions.

Most marketing managers have a degree in marketing or a related field. At a smaller company, you might be a generalist who’s expected to handle several or all aspects of marketing while working on a tiny team or even solo. But many mid-sized and larger companies look to hire specialized marketers—so the more skills you can gain in a specific area of marketing, the more likely you’ll be to land a high-paying opportunity.

Human resources managers (more commonly known as HR managers) are responsible for managing everything related to the employees within an organization.

Depending on the needs of the company, HR managers may handle a variety of employee-related tasks, including recruiting, employee onboarding and training, and overseeing benefits administration. HR managers may also manage employee complaints and spearhead initiatives aimed at improving company culture (like team-building activities or company wellness programs).

Most HR manager jobs require a bachelor’s degree—although some companies will hire candidates with excellent people and logistics skills (HR managers deal with a lot of paperwork!) even if they don’t have a degree. Keep in mind that, in order to land this kind of salary, you’ll need to gain experience and work your way up to a more senior position.

Database administrators are responsible for maintaining a company’s database systems and ensuring that the information stored on them is easily, quickly, and securely accessible. Depending on the database, this may include optimizing data collection, storage, and organization; backing up systems; identifying problems or inconsistencies within the database and developing solutions; creating new databases and transferring data into them; overseeing user permissions; and designing and implementing security measures.

Understanding databases, how they work, and how to manage and optimize them is a must for database administrators—so most database administrators have a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field.

Public relations managers (also known as PR managers) work to shape the way a person, company, or product is perceived by the public, whether that’s building buzz around a new product launch, getting press coverage for a new book, or building positive brand sentiment for a corporation. PR managers accomplish these goals using a variety of strategies, including building and maintaining media relationships, writing press releases, and running “damage control” to minimize the impact of negative press.

PR managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, marketing, or a related field—but experience building interest and driving positive press can open doors, even for candidates without a degree.

What Professions will be Demanded in the Future?

Despite the fact that many professions are gradually becoming unclaimed due to changes in working conditions, the development of a technical process, there are certain professions and occupations, which will soon be very popular (and already are). After all, specialists in these categories are not enough and in the future their work will be even more relevant and in demand.

The work of employees in information technology will continue to be very relevant. Moreover, the demand for the representatives of the profession will grow steadily, as today we can observe quite the dynamic development of the Internet, software market, etc. Therefore, IT specialists are required in both large corporations and in small companies.

Experts in the field of tourism will be very important. Every year the number of people who can afford to rest in another country or another continent, is steadily growing and so the demand for employees who are able to organize a quality vacation at a minimal price, will be able to choose the most suitable tour in accordance with the requirements and wishes of the client, will increase. Especially such things as visits to exotic countries and rural tourism (eco-tourism) will be especially popular.

Because of every day increase in number of accidents and natural disasters the demand for specialists in the field of insurance will rise. In many countries people are just beginning to open the possibility of medical and pension insurance, life insurance. Experts predict that this area will be developed extremely rapidly in the next 5-10 years, and insurers will be much demanded.

Qualified medical personnel will still be not enough, as demand for their services is growing every day. Despite the fact that humanity during the period of its development, was able to overcome and eliminate many dangerous diseases, every day there are new viruses and strains so specialists will be needed. There is a shortage of medical workers in both large cities and small towns. Moreover, there is a lack of qualified doctors of different categories and specialties, as well as of junior medical staff (nurses). According to experts, family doctors, pediatricians, therapists, laboratory assistants and emergency doctors are required most of all.

Today, homes are built very dynamically: industrial and administrative buildings, as well as residential ones; and more and more unskilled workers are involved in the construction. Gradually, however, developers are beginning to realize that savings on unskilled labor can bring serious spending to fix various problems. Therefore it will be observed a steady increase in demand for representatives of various building specialties who have the appropriate education, knowledge and skills.

The profession related to the activity in the advertising business will be very popular. Today, advertising is really just the engine and therefore the cost of advertising campaigns and promotions are growing day by day, and skilled workers who are able to think creatively and carry out their duties effectively, will be valued very highly.

Scientific representatives will be at their peak. The first place is given to the study of atoms and molecules; the state encourages and supports nanotechnologies. This could include space and medical research, engineering and aviation, including engineering at the atomic level. Examples of occupations of the future could be: a specialist in the creation of synthetic food for the poor, farmers of GMOs, “vertical farmers”, they will be engaged in growing food on roofs of skyscrapers, nuclear architects, manufacturers of robots.

This is only a tentative list of required professions of the future because we don’t know exactly what will happen tomorrow. The most important thing in this case is to understand what your soul desires, what you can do and what cannot, and then the choice of profession will be resolved by itself. Do not forget to work on yourself – without self-improvement any qualification is out of date!

40 High-Paying Careers in Demand for The Next 10 Years

Wondering what job will be in demand in the next 10 years?

Well, there are many remarkable careers that can give you the financial stability and peace-of-mind you’re looking for.

In this post, you’ll discover some of the fastest growing and highest paying careers in demand for the future.

About The List

Data for this list was gathered from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, O*NET, and PayScale.

To narrow the list down from almost 1000 jobs, certain benchmarks were used – such as tremendous growth and a good salary.

Those studies influenced the minimum salary requirements for the careers on this list.

As for growth, that’s pretty self-explanatory. None of the careers listed here are vulnerable to automation, outsourcing, pandemics, or recessions.

Now that you know about the list, let’s continue.

40 Careers in Demand for The Next 10 Years

If you’re thinking about changing careers or trying to choose your college major, here are the best high-paying careers for the future:

1. Registered nurses (RN)

Did you know that RNs account for the largest number of healthcare workers?

As an RN, you’ll be expected to provide patient care, health education, and emotional support for patients and families.

In addition to that, administering medicine, performing diagnostic tasks, and teaching people how to manage injury and illness, will also be part of your daily routine.

To become a registered nurse, you’ll need a relevant degree or diploma. And most importantly, you’ll need to become licensed.

It’s no secret that this is a very demanding job. But RNs do get paid well and no one’s ever going to mistake it for a boring desk job.

So if you want to help people in a variety of settings, this could be your next career.

Want a High-Paying and In-Demand Career That’s Pandemic & Recession-Proof?

Get this Insider Guide to learn the top skills employers desperately want, and increase your chances to have the financially secure and rewarding career you deserve.

2. Software Developers

Right now you’re reading this post on some kind of computing device.

That wouldn’t have been possible without a software developer writing the necessary lines of code for your device or application.

Solving problems is the main focal point of software development.

Finding ways to automate tasks and improve human interaction with technology, will be part of your daily duties.

While having a relevant degree can help you, it’s not a requirement.

There are many successful software developers earning a comfortable living without degrees.

If you want to be like them, you’ll need to invest in a course and become certified (if necessary), to prove you have the required skills.

Technology will continue growing at a rapid pace. So if you want in on some of the action (and cash), then consider becoming a software developer.

Who knows, maybe you’ll create the next great app!

3. Postsecondary Education Teachers

College professors serve as the final transitional resources between young adults and the real world.

As a professor you’ll guide those budding souls in academic and technical subjects designed to prepare them for the workforce.

Some of your activities may also include research, getting published, or creating the next overpriced college textbook.

Naturally, you need either a master’s degree or PhD to become a university professor.

The cool thing is, it can be in an area that you’re passionate about. So that Art career you envisioned just might come to fruition.

It’s a pretty flexible career that pays well and has many benefits.

Plus you get to see fresh faces every year or two. And if you want to help influence them, there’s no better way to do it than by becoming a postsecondary education teacher.

4. Accountants and Auditors

If you’re like most people, you pay someone (a lot of money) to manage your finances and keep Uncle Sam happy.

This can be for your personal income, business income, or both.

Contrary to popular belief accountants no longer sit in cubicles crunching numbers.

As an accountant your job is to find the meaning behind those numbers and communicate them to clients or management.

You also get to give advice and make decisions that can impact their financial situation.

To become an accountant, you’ll first need an accounting (or relevant) degree. Then you’ll need to become certified, depending on the area of accounting.

Once you have those, you can fulfill your lifelong dream of getting paid to play with numbers.

5. Management Analysts (aka Consultant)

Processes and results. That pretty much sums up the job of a management analyst.

It’s a job where you’ll be responsible for providing solutions to management.

The kind of solutions that increase revenue and decrease costs to make the company more profitable.

At the very least you’ll need some type of bachelor’s degree.

But if you’ve got years of experience in a certain field (or you’re a genius), that may trump the degree requirement.

In other words, companies may want degrees but they’ll never prioritize them over making money.

While this career pays quite well, it does require frequent travel. So be prepared to rack up those frequent flyer miles.

6. Financial Managers

The financial health of a business falls squarely upon the shoulders of a financial manager.

This role is all about focusing on a business internally.

You’ll ensure adherence to budgets – that profits are looked after and costs are controlled, keeping the business operating as financially safe as possible.

Other responsibilities may include making investment decisions, creating financial reports, and developing strategies to influence future financial goals.

In order to get that sweet six-figure salary, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and experience in a similar financial role.

7. Physicians and Surgeons

Imagine getting paid almost a quarter of million dollars to poke people and use cold metal objects to listen to their bodies.

How many other jobs would pay you to do that?

Unless you get paid to torture humans, the only way to legally do that is to become a doctor of some kind.

You already know the deal here…

You’ll have to spend almost a decade of your life getting all the expensive qualifications, experience, and necessary skills.

Three things you need in order to do cool stuff like perform surgeries, prescribe meds, diagnose and treat injuries, and more.

As much as this career is going to explode in 10 years, it’s probably not going to be worth your time if you’re old.

Let the college freshmen deal with the time and insane debt required to become a doctor.

8. Medical and Health Services Managers

Just because med-school isn’t for you doesn’t mean you have to give up your dreams of working in healthcare.

As a healthcare administrator, you can run the damn facility and manage those rich physicians and surgeons. Haha suckers!

You’ll be responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating all medical and health services.

And the best part is…

All you need is a relevant bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and some experience.

As for compensation, that can easily jump to high six-figures over time. Enough to afford a good lifestyle.

9. Physical Therapists (PT)

A PT helps patients with a variety of problems such as physical impairments, illnesses, and chronic pain.

Depending on the field of physical therapy, your focus might be on prevention, maintenance, long-term treatment, and more.

It’s also a very active career.

You’re on your feet most of the time helping patients improve their movement, manage their pain, and get encouragement they need to stick with a routine.

Once upon a time all you needed was a master’s degree in physical therapy and licensing to become a physical therapist.

10. Nurse Practitioners (NP)

NPs are basically registered nurses with advanced training in primary care services.

This means they can perform a number of functions that were typically done by doctors – such as ordering medications, x-rays, and lab tests.

As a NP most of what you do will be centered around health promotion, illness prevention, dealing with episodic illnesses, and management of chronic illnesses.

The autonomy and scope you get in this career is immense. And this is reflected in the level of compensation, which easily surpasses six figures.

However, getting to that level will require at least a master’s degree, experience in the field, and licensing.

But for a career that is projected to grow tremendously, it’s definitely worth your time and effort.

11. Construction Managers

When companies are looking to erect shopping malls, high-rise apartments, factories, etc, they hire a construction manager.

In this role, you’ll be responsible for supervising the project, making operational decisions, and keeping everything within a tight budget.

You are pretty much in charge of the entire construction process.

Given that level of responsibility, companies expect you to have both a bachelor’s degree and on-the-job experience.

And while you may have an office, you’ll hardly see it. Because most of your time will be spent in the field coordinating plans, working with others, and managing chaos.

If that turns you on, then this could be the career for you.

12. Information Technology Managers

Keeping a company’s computer systems functioning flawlessly and efficiently is what these professionals do.

As an IT manager, you’ll be responsible for many tasks, which all boil down to ensuring information remains accessible.

To do that, you’ll work with managers in other departments to oversee and guide their projects.

The company will also need you to evaluate its technological needs, establish budgets, and coordinate with upper management to implement any necessary resources or solutions.

The only caveat is you may need an IT-related bachelor’s degree and experience.

But both of those things may be overlooked if you’re a rockstar tech-genius.

13. Dental Hygienists

A key member of dental teams, dental hygienists are highly skilled people who provide long-term oral healthcare to patients.

You’ll be responsible for assessing a patient’s current oral care and reviewing their health history.

So if Bob hasn’t used a toothbrush since last Christmas, you’ll school him on the benefits of good oral health.

Things like flossing and correct brushing techniques can save Bob from harming humans with nuclear halitosis.

Additionally, you may have to perform oral cancer screenings, remove plaque and stains from teeth, apply fluoride, and take and develop x-rays.

Pay is pretty good considering the only requirements for the job are an associate’s degree in dental hygiene and state licensing.

14. Financial Advisors

Here’s a career that’s not only rapidly increasing, it can literally save someone’s life!

That last part is not an exaggeration.

Just look around and see how many people are one paycheck away from becoming suicidal, homicidal, or maniacal.

As a financial advisor you can help people manage their money to avoid financial ruin.

You can also offer advice on things like saving, investing, paying for college, buying a home, retirement, and even death preparation.

A bachelor’s degree should be enough to become a financial advisor.

However, a master’s degree and certification can boost your salary significantly.

If you pursue this career, don’t become evil like Big Banks and Wall Street crooks.

15. Physician Assistants (PA)

PAs are healthcare providers that work with a medical team of nurses and doctors to help treat patients.

This career also gives you a bit of autonomy.

That means you can do things like prescribe medications and perform procedures.

In most cases these actions are determined by your supervising physician.

As long as you’re trained and given permission, you can examine, diagnose, and treat patients.

BTW, you don’t need a lifetime of med-school to crack six figures.

Becoming a physician assistant requires a master’s degree and state licensing.

Get those two things and you’ll be making money in no time.

16. Civil Engineers

They don’t get much credit for it, but civil engineers improve the lives of people every day.

It’s a profession that’s crucial to a country’s growth and its citizens’ well-being.

The occupation is very demanding and involves problems way more complex than lack of intimacy in most marriages.

You are basically responsible for creating solutions to society’s toughest challenges.

For example: implementing solutions to ensure people have access to clean water after a hurricane.

Other project-related tasks may include supervision, design, creation, operation, maintenance, increasing productivity, and more.

You can literally specialize in a vast number of areas because the world is full of complex problems waiting to be solved.

While it’s a growing career with great pay, you still need some qualifications to start.

A bachelor’s degree in a civil engineering specialty, a graduate degree, and licensing, are all required.

If it all sounds too complex, you can’t join the civil engineering club.

17. Financial Analysts

Helping businesses and individuals make calculated investment decisions is what financial analysts do.

With so many different types of investments like stocks and bonds, people don’t have time to evaluate them.

So they need someone like you to do the research and examine a potential company’s financial records.

That can mean analyzing projections and competitors.

You then have to simplify the data and present it to clients to help them decide whether it’s a smart investment or risky one.

This is definitely a desk job since most of the work is computer and phone related. But the pay makes it worthwhile.

All you need is a bachelor’s degree and you can get your money on.

NOTE: Don’t scam people if you choose this career.

18. Operations Research Analysts

These analysts are kind of like civil engineers – but for companies.

What that means is, you’re responsible for assessing the cost and benefits of different solutions to a company’s complex problems.

Using analytical software to simulate current and future events, you can determine how any changes might effect results.

You’ll be required to collect all relevant data by interacting with employees, observing operations, and more.

That information is then used by senior management to make decisions about resource allocations, develop production schedules, manage the supply chain, and set prices.

For that level of responsibility you get paid well. But you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in business or a highly analytical field.

If your life revolves around numbers, this career may be perfect for you.

19. Occupational Therapists (OT)

When life messes with people’s ability to perform their daily living and working functions, they don’t call the Ghostbusters…

They turn to occupational therapists.

Your job as an OT is to help people find the tools and strategies needed to overcome barriers such as illness and disability.

Helping patients develop, recover, improve, or maintain day-to-day activities are also your responsibilities.

While the salary is great, the best part of this job is helping people enjoy a good quality life.

20. Dentists

Unless you just came out of the Stone Age, you already know what dentists do.

This career involves anything related to the treatment of teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth.

It’s basically your job to offer patients healthcare advice and instruction to promote good oral care.

And depending on if you work alone, partner with other dentists, or join a luxury medical practice, you may earn a lot more.

Dentists don’t just make ugly people look good, they give people something to smile about.

If you want to get paid handsomely to do that, you’re gonna need a doctoral degree and licensing first.

21. Administrative Services Managers

These professionals get paid well to ensure that everyone within a company gets their work done.

In this role, you’ll be responsible for coordinating and directing a wide range of support services and personnel.

But that’s not all…

Other tasks may include budgeting, secretarial duties, office supervision, and facility maintenance.

It’s such a broad career field that your duties can change depending on the company you work for.

So even though you need a bachelor’s degree and work experience, those requirements can vary from company to company.

At the end of the day it’s still a managerial role.

If the idea of planning, directing, coordinating, and leading appeals to you, this could be your next career.

22. Information Security Analysts

Business + private data + tech x incompetent employees = the need for security analysts.

As an information security analyst your job is protect an organization from itself.

When a company installs IT networks and systems but its employees are old or tech-averse, that’s a recipe for disaster.

This is why they’ll need people like you to come in and implement security measures to protect the computer infrastructure.

Yes, this also means protecting the network from external attacks like hacking.

However, most data breaches usually come from within an organization.

Companies just don’t like to admit that though because… profits.

Some employers are still sticklers for IT-related bachelor degrees.

23. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP)

Also called speech therapists, these professionals help people communicate better.

Although you can specialize in many areas, your tasks pretty much remain the same.

For instance… as an SLP working with kids you might have to help them with their pronunciation and communication.

Similarly, you might help adults by assessing, diagnosing, or treating any communication disorders they might have.

While the pay is good, you will need a master’s degree and licensing to become a speech language pathologist.

24. Industrial Engineers

Companies hire industrial engineers to effectively streamline production processes.

In this job, you are the bridge between company goals and the work needed to achieve those goals.

You basically have to solve problems.

That means you’ve got to coordinate people, machines, materials, information, and energy.

You also need to use analytical software, cost analysis, financial planning, quality control, and develop distribution plans to improve profits.

If all that fascinates you, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in an engineering field to reap the benefits of this job and earn a nice salary.

25. Web Developers

These tech savvy professionals design, create, and maintain a company’s website.

It’s more than just starting a blog.

As a web developer, you also need to look after the technical aspects of a website.

This includes things like optimizing performance, creating content, and ensuring that the site has a functional purpose.

The user experience and interaction is also your responsibility.

So instead of a company website looking like this, you’ll turn it into something more user-friendly like this.

Word on the street is… you need an associate’s degree to make a good salary.

Well, you can forget that nonsense. All you need to do is invest in a good course then start developing your skills by building websites.

Once you’ve got a portfolio, you can use it to get hired or start your own web design agency. The latter means more monies.

26. Marketing Managers

This career is all about marketing a company’s product or service to potential clients or customers.

A lot of this has to do with branding as well.

You’ll have to find creative ways to steer people’s opinions and perceptions of a company.

This means working with creative directors, advertising managers, sales managers, and financial staff.

Additionally, you’ll supervise a company’s marketing team to research demand for their products or services, develop pricing strategies, and identify the right customers.

In order to get a nice six-figure paycheck, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience.

Once you have those things, you just have to find a company to let you put your high-demand skills to use.

27. Psychologists

Psychologists provide counseling and psychotherapy to people with adjustment problems, emotional disorders, or mental illness.

People are going to turn to you as a psychologist, to help them normalize or succeed in some aspect of their life.

They may be experiencing prolonged periods of depression and looking for ways to cope or resolve those personal issues.

In order to help someone you’ll need to assess and diagnose their condition. Then you’ll have to recommend an effective treatment program.

That program could be individual or group therapy sessions, or a behavior modification program.

Since it’s a broad profession, you’ll most likely choose an area to specialize in.

Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists, are all examples of specialty areas.

It’s a bit rare to become a psychologist with just a master’s degree.

In most cases, you’ll need a doctoral degree as well as licensing to earn a good salary as psychologist.

28. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

Batman isn’t the only one who can use sound to see in the darkness, sonographers can do it too.

As a sonographer you’ll use special medical equipment to project high-frequency sound waves onto a specific area of a patient’s body.

Those waves produce moving images (sonograms) that help you see inside those body structures.

The sonograms are used by doctors to help formulate a diagnosis.

You can specialize in specific areas of the body, gynecology, or obstetrics.

To do that though, you’ll need an associate’s degree or postsecondary certificate, as well as professional certification.

Unfortunately, you don’t get to wear a suit, fight crime, and live in a mansion as a sonographer.

But you do get paid well enough to make this career worthwhile.

29. College & University Education Administrators

People like deans, registrars, and department heads, are examples of education administrators.

These are the folks around campus who are in charge of academics, faculty research, and student services.

That means it’s a career where you can expect a similar role at a university or college.

Apart from collecting a nice paycheck and having job security, you’ll have to do some work.

You may have to supervise areas such as student guidance, housing, orientation, and discipline.

Other responsibilities could involve reviewing academic programs to ensure standards and schedules are being met.

Since this is university we’re talking about, you’ll need a master’s degree or higher education, along with relevant work experience.

Get those things and you can stay on campus forever!

30. Veterinarians

Vets provide healthcare services to animals.

Your job will involve diagnosing, treating, and researching diseases that affect animals.

Part of that also includes preventative medicine to ensure animals stay healthy.

Basically vets are to animals what physicians are to humans.

That means you’ll need a doctoral degree in veterinary medicine and a license in order to become a vet.

Vets typically work with animals on a daily basis in private clinics and hospitals.

If you want to get paid well to do that instead of work with humans, this could be your dream job.

31. Database Administrators

These admins are in charge of the server(s) that houses a company’s database.

You’ll essentially be responsible for maintaining large files containing customer and product information.

It’s on you to make that information available and accessible to everyone in the company who needs it.

While some people have IT-related bachelor degrees, a few don’t.

The requirements for becoming a database administrator can vary from company to company.

But if you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, you’d better have experience and amazing skills in order to get the job.

Since this is another tech job, the compensation is more than good.

So if you’re into database systems, you might want to become a database admin.

32. Statisticians

Using numbers to solve real-world problems in different industries is why statisticians get compensated so well.

Being a statistician means you’ll spend your days analyzing data, creating statistical models, and predicting outcomes that can influence production processes.

Upper management will also depend on you to simplify complex data so they can use it to make important financial decisions.

Assuming you aren’t the next Ronald Fisher, you’ll need a master’s degree to become a statistician.

Although it’s not unheard of to get by with just a bachelor’s degree.

If you’ve got the ability to turn numbers into answers, you should probably put that big brain of yours to work as a statistician.

33. Financial Specialists

Professionals in this career usually work in one of FOUR areas:

(i) Quantitative analysis
As a quantitive analyst you’ll be responsible for creating financial products to help people or businesses with saving, lending, borrowing, investing, or managing risk.

Your may also find yourself developing analytical tools or advanced financial investment instruments.

(ii) Risk management
In this career you’ll have to analyze and control risk-related issues by identifying, measuring, and making decisions that can impact an organization’s processes.

(ii) Investment underwriting
Assessing companies as potential investments, signing off on financing capital for growth, and brokering investments, will be part of your job as an investment underwriter.

(iv) Fraud examination and investigation
In this role you get to basically do everything you can to uncover financial scams.

That includes gathering evidence, data analysis, creating reports, and even showing up in court to testify against suit-wearing scumbags.

To become a financial specialist in any of those areas you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and a bit of experience.

Although, the latter isn’t always required for you to earn a good salary.

34. Optometrists

This profession is all about helping people see better, but you already knew that.

As an optometrist you’ll examine a patient’s eyes or other parts of their visual system, to diagnose vision problems and eye diseases.

You also have the ability to write prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses.

Another part of your job will involve using medical tools to determine eye health, visual focus and coordination, as well as test visual acuity, depth, and color perception.

But to do that, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, a doctoral degree, and licensing.

Get those things and you’ll start to see lots of dollar signs.

35. Chiropractors

Chiropractors help patients overcome injuries and body ailments created by natural or unnatural forces.

After examining a patient’s nerves, bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, you’ll be able to treat any problems they might have.

You may also need to correct poor alignment by making manual adjustments to their spine and other joint areas.

Given the intimate nature of this job, you need the physical skills and empathy to be able to interact with patients.

You also need knowledge too, which you’ll get from a doctoral degree program.

The last part of becoming a chiropractor is licensing.

Once you have that, you can start making a decent salary helping people live pain free.

36. Technical Writers

Technical writers turn complex information into simple communication for end users.

Things like instruction manuals, how-to guides, and other supporting documentation, all need to be written in an easy-to-understand format.

For instance, it could be manuals a software company creates for its clients.

Or, it could be installation instructions that come with you new smart TV.

Some people think this career is only for English majors.

On the contrary, any bachelor’s degree will do. Although, it’s not always a requirement.

You can become a technical writer if you have experience with a product or service, and can clearly explain its functions.

Most people in this career work in IT or engineering fields, and the pay is good.

But if you’re considering this career, would you mind moonlighting as a writer for IKEA instruction manuals?

Somehow there are always extra screws.

37. Natural Sciences Managers

Developing projects that contribute to society via science is what natural sciences managers do.

In this role, you’ll direct the activities of a variety of scientists to ensure they align with the goals of the company.

That includes supervising corporate and developmental research initiatives.

Other aspects of the job will involve interacting with senior management to provide feedback, updates, and project results.

It’s not uncommon for you to have to oversee planning, budgeting, hiring, and staff management processes.

To get a big fat paycheck, you need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience first.

But after that you can use a scientific calculator to add up your income.

38. Computer & Information Scientists

This career is all about discovering new ways to use computing to meet the needs of humans.

Most of your time will be spent studying complex computing problems and coming up with solutions.

Those solutions may be used in business, medicine, science, or other industries.

In addition to that you’ll have to manage tasks to accomplish a company’s or client’s priority and goals.

Evaluating project proposals for feasibility issues will also be your responsibility.

Since most high-paying jobs are in the government and private sector, having at least a bachelor’s degree is necessary.

However, many computer scientists also have master’s degree.

If you’re considering this career, be ready to spend long hours in front of a computer!

39. Actuaries

Actuaries use past data to quantify risk and put a value on uncertain future events.

In case you were wondering, that requires a lot of math, statistics, and financial theory.

Those are the tools you’ll use to evaluate the risk of events that probably won’t even happen.

Your analysis is then used by companies to create policies to reduce that risk.

It shouldn’t come as shock to you that insurance companies offer very lucrative salaries to lure actuarial scientists.

But in order to get the job, you’ll need a strong aptitude for math, a bachelor’s degree, and certification.

Or, if you’re a regular Einstein, you probably won’t need any of that.

Do numbers turn you on? Then this career just might satisfy you.

40. Petroleum Engineers

Basically this profession is all about scouring the earth for reservoirs containing oil or natural gas… then invading countries and killing people for it.

Once you find those resources, you’ll have to design and develop methods of extracting them from beneath the Earth’s surface.

To do that you’ll have to work with specialists like geologists to ensure the extraction is safe and environmentally friendly.

It’s not all about finding new resources though. You may also have to devise new solutions to replace old methods and systems that are currently in place.

As you can imagine this is a very technical and highly-skilled job. So you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering or another engineering field, as well as some experience.

And since you’re dealing with black gold, a high six-figure salary will definitely make you want to pursue this career.