September 1, 2009

Top 10 in-demand college majors for Class of '10

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As if we needed an another reminder, those of you who were awakened this morning by the unexpected chilly showers (with real raindrops, not the usual drizzle) probably realize by now that fall is well on its way. The changeover to September weather brings back thoughts of school--and for members of the Class of 2010, who are looking to start their careers next May, the horizon before them is cloudy and gray indeed.

But according to recent analysis by employment expert and author Laurence Shatkin, today's college students can start taking control of their futures now by looking into academic fields that are actively looking for new grads. In his latest book, "50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future," Shatkin identifies a number of industries that tend to remain stable despite fluctuations in the economic climate.

"Jobs with a high average of annual openings or percent growth can be easier to obtain, particularly when you first enter the job market after completing your degree," Shatkin says. "These majors also create more opportunities for you to move from one employer to another with relative ease."

For today's incoming sophomores looking to declare a major this fall, or for those seniors beginning their job searches for next year, here is Shatkin's list of "high-security majors," followed by that major's average number of annual job openings nationwide:

1. Nursing (R.N. Training): 233,499 openings

2. Graduate Study for College Teaching: 129,040 openings

3. Secondary Education: 127,178 openings

4. Business Education: 93,166 openings

5. Early Childhood Education: 88,989 openings

6. Physical Education: 73,179 openings

7. Family and Consumer Sciences: 59,961 openings

8. Public Relations: 51,216 openings

9. Medicine: 38,027 openings

10. Religion/Religious Studies: 35,092 openings

Other lists in Shatkin's book include majors with the highest-paying jobs, the fastest growth through 2016, the most resistance to market changes and much more. "Though a few of the majors lead to jobs with a moderate level of pay, most lead to jobs that pay quite well and can provide good long-term career opportunities or the ability to move up to more responsible roles," he adds.

For more information about "50 Best College Majors for a Secure Future," plus dozens of other titles on educational and career planning, visit the Jist Publishing Web site.

Randy Woods writes about job-search tools, networking techniques and other tips to help you land your dream job.

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