Posted On: March 1, 2010

Choosing a career path that will lead to a successful career is something that every college student strives for. The Unites States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the five following majors will increase rapidly over the next decade.

To help in your quest to find a suitable major that will bring stability upon graduation, here are five majors that are expected to grow rapidly over the next decade.

Medicine/ Nursing

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the healthcare industry will generate 3.2 million jobs in the next decade – more than any other industry.

The increase in healthcare professions is expected to happen due to changes in the health care industry, the rise in the population and the need to replace healthcare professionals as they reach retirement.

In relation to a degree in medicine, nursing careers are also expected to increase rapidly.

Examples of jobs in the medical field: Physicians, nursing, medical billing, surgeons, surgical technicians, medical coding, medical assistants, etc.

Education

Teachers are an important part of the intellectual and social development of the nation’s youth. Education positions are expected to increase, especially in high-demand fields such as math, science and foreign language.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that teachers and other educational workers will be needed as the population increases and more educators are needed to teach in schools across the country.

Examples of positions in education: teachers, special-education teachers, school counselors, education administrators, etc.

Computer Science

With the widespread and increasing use of computers in today’s world, many job openings are beginning in computer-related fields.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the rise in computer-related fields will increase about 25 percent over the next decade, faster than the nation’s average.

Examples of jobs in computer science: computer software analyst, graphic design, computer programming, network technician, IT technology, etc.

Social Work

Social workers assist people and help them cope with difficulties in their lives.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment for social workers will increase faster than average during the next decade. Increase in employment is expected due to the aging of the baby boom generation and the need for more social services.

Examples of jobs in social work: child and family social workers, medical and public health social workers, mental health and substance abuse social workers, etc.

Law

Lawyers, or attorneys, represent different parties and act as advocates for them. Attorneys also council clients regarding legal matters.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment for lawyers will grow an estimated 13 percent over the next decade. Population growth and the increase in business transactions is expected to increase the need for lawyers.

Examples of jobs in the law field: lawyers, paralegals or legal assistants, law clerks, judges, etc.