10 Best Bets for a Solid Second Career

1) Pharmacist

If you already have a bachelor's degree and the prerequisites for pharmacy school, a few more
years in school can offer an excellent return on your investment. This is one of two careers where
PayScale data showed an increase in salary over the last six months. (The other career is
physical therapist.)
Median annual salary: $98,232

2) Software Developer

Still a strong option both in terms of salary potential and employability, software developers may
consider the area of "casual game" development. "One of the fastest growing segments in the
gaming industry is casual gaming. Every month an estimated 200 million consumers play casual
games online, many of whom do not normally regard themselves as gamers or fans of video
games," says Henry DeVries, director of communications at UC San Diego Extended Studies and
Public Programs. UC San Diego offers an extension program for casual gaming education to
assist graphic artists and programmers.
Median annual salary: $70,834

3) Information Technology Manager

According to the Department of Labor Statistics, companies prefer candidates with an MBA and
an emphasis in IT. Regardless of the type of MBA, Beecher advises splurging on the best school
you can get into. "A degree from a pedigree school can deliver $150-200K per year after five
years and that person can expect to earn that much for the rest of their [working] lives," says
Beecher.
Median annual salary: $67,393

4) Licensed Physical Therapist

With 27 percent growth expected by 2016, licensed physical therapy is another graduate degree
program with promise of jobs in the future and excellent compensation. Most programs require a
master's or doctorate-level degree.
Median annual salary: $64,322

5) Environmental Engineer

With our society and government looking for new ways to protect the environment, degrees in
environmental studies and engineering are becoming more popular. There are different areas of
specialty you can focus on. For example, "Environmental engineers study the environmental
impact of a proposed construction project, analyze data and assess the extent of possible harm
to the environment. As a result of their evaluation, they may recommend that the construction
plans be altered to minimize potential harm," reports Alice Ramey, economist at the Office of
Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Median annual salary: $61,440

6) Financial Advisor

Do you love numbers and people? Financial advisors help people make decisions about where to
invest their money to help them enhance the quality of their lives. Some training programs exist
that do not require a college degree, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics says a bachelor's or
graduate degree offers the best prospects both in terms of employment opportunities and higher
salaries. With prospects for jobs to increase by 41 percent, this is one to check out.
Median annual salary: $59,979

7) Registered Nurse

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career with the greatest expected increase in
available jobs over the next seven years is registered nurse. If you have an aptitude for science, a
compassionate nature, and like the idea of variable hours, an RN degree may be your ticket to
future employment. Not to be confused with LPNs or LVNs, it takes four years of education to
obtain a bachelor of science in nursing or two to three years to receive and associate's degree
from a community college. Either path can lead to an RN certification.
Median annual salary: $55,910

8) Gaming Manager

Viva Las Vegas! Not to be confused with the above computer gaming industry, this title refers to
managers in casinos. Gaming manager jobs are expected increase by 24.4 percent by 2016,
according to the BLS. This career path requires a specific effort to gain experience in the gaming
industry, knowledge of casino regulations, and the general operations. An associate or bachelor's
degree is useful but not mandatory.
Median annual salary: $48,000

9) Paralegal

Job prospects for paralegals are expected to rise 22 percent by 2016. According to the BLS, part
of this growth may be attributed to paralegals gaining responsibility and performing more tasks
once commonly done by lawyers. If you like responsibility, can work under pressure, and have an
eye for detail, a career as a paralegal may be for you. Paralegal education is available as a
certificate, post-graduate program, associate, bachelor's and master's degree, or some
companies may even teach you on the job.
Median annual salary: $44,751.

10) Social Worker

With 22 percent growth projected, a career as a social worker can begin with a bachelor's degree
in sociology or social work. With a variety of potential work environments, ranging from schools to
rescue shelters, part-time and full-time job opportunities are expected to increase over the next
eight years.
Median annual salary: $40,986