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Reinvent In-Demand Yourself. Careers Diplomas Available in: Cosmetology Medical Assisting Medical Billing and Coding Pharmacy Technician

In a Tight Economy,

Look for Fields that Buck Trends

By Katie Alice Walker

demand. We’ve also included a few creative jobs and some that don’t require you sitting behind a desk all day. No matter which path you choose, there’s probably a program right here in the Midlands that can qualify you to pursue a more lucrative, fulfilling and in-demand job. A hint: Brushing up on math and computer skills is the first step for many of these positions. Another hint: Take this list for what it is — a list. Doing something you actually enjoy can fuel success that weathers any economy. Keep in mind that that career projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics are based on the national outlook of careers, not the local outlook. So, while Columbia has a lot of jobs in health care and insurance, it doesn’t have as many in some other areas. Therefore you should consider your ability and willingness to relocate before entering a program that might not have the best job prospects locally.

Health Care and Social Assistance

Not actual Remington College student

Classes start June 18!

Columbia Campus 607 Bush River Road Columbia, SC 29210

remingtonnow.com

800-559-5314

Accredited Member

For Disclosures of Tuition Costs, On Time Graduation Rates, Median Loan Debt, Placement Rates and Occupational Information, go to www.remingtoncollege.edu/ ge-disclosures. Remington College is a Non-Profit College and admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin. 32

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f you’re on the job hunt, you know that things are still rough out there even though the unemployment rate has generally been coming down. That’s why it’s more important than ever to look toward careers with good prospects in the future.

Many of those jobs fall in the middleskills category — meaning they require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year college degree. That’s

Want to check on the outlook for a specific career? Visit the “Occupational Outlook Handbook” section of the Bureau of Labor Statistics web site at bls.gov/ooh.

where education and training come in: If we can squeeze something good out of the recession, it might just be that it has sparked some people to go get education and training for careers that should be in high demand when the economy gets out of its slump. Read on to learn more about this year’s top careers, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor and other sources. Among the factors that rank a career highly: employment outlook, the work environment, income, stress and physical

No matter what the economic climate brings, health care will be in demand, particularly as the baby boomers increase in age. Twenty-eight percent of all new jobs created in the next decade are expected to be health care-related. Personal care aides and home health aides are the occupations with the fastest projected growth through 2020. Wages aren’t high: These positions will see average wages of around $20,000 per year. But, in many cases, a high school degree isn’t even needed to enter this field. If you’re compassionate and don’t mind being on the move for much of the day, these jobs could be for you. Didn’t your mom always say that nurses were always in high demand? Registered nurses work in so many different segments of health care — from assisting physicians with weigh-ins and check-ups to administering medication in hospitals and much more — that there’s a way to find a niche that’s fulfilling, and there is often room for moving into management once you find that niche and excel at it. The role of nurses is expected to increase under the new health care law, too, as millions of new patients come into the system. The most common education path to nursing is either a bachelor of science in nursing or an associate’s degree. Physician assistants, veterinarians and physical therapists are also among the most promising health care jobs. Interested in entering the field? Take a look at the specific positions local hospitals are advertising for — and find out specifically what qualifications those positions require. continues on page 38

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EARN A BUSINESS DEGREE IN ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT IN AS FEW AS 18-24 MONTHS! NEWBERRY COLLEGE June 6-12, 2012 | facebook.com/freetimes | twitter.com/freetimessc | free-times.com

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college credit hours from twoyear schools or four-year schools to earn a degree in Organizational Management in as few as 18-24 months. • Students attend classes in the evening and online, blending face-to-face interaction with the ﬂexibility of online learning. • Classes are taught in an accelerated 8-week format with a clear path to graduation. • Most adults qualify for substantial ﬁnancial aid for tuition. CALL NOW FOR UPCOMING START DATES For More Information www.newberryfastforward.com fast.forward@newberry.edu (803) 321-5691 get ahead

QuickJobs Offers Quick Turnaround for High-Demand Jobs Unemployed, Under-Employed Find New Career Paths at Midlands Tech By Rodney Welch

hen it comes to cracking today’s job market, it doesn’t always matter how smart you are.

Cathy Pitts saw that first-hand recently when she posted an opening for a clerical position at Midlands Technical College, where she is executive director of programs, corporate and continuing education. Among the many respondents, she says, were PhDs and teachers, “people who are highly skilled and highly trained, but they’re out of work, and they need to get their foot in the door somewhere. It was really surprising to me, and made me sad for a lot of those folks.” It is at least partly with those people in mind that Midlands Tech in 2005 established the QuickJobs Program, which delivers skills for high-demand jobs at a low cost and in a relatively short time. More and more QuickJobs students, Pitts says, are either unemployed or underemployed, many of them people who have “a high level of education, but they don’t have the middle-skills training you might need to actually secure a job.” The program started with eight jobs and now offers 44 courses of study, and it is only expected to grow. “We’re seeing a lot of folks taking jobs for which they need a better salary, or they are working two or three jobs to secure a

For More Info People interested in QuickJobs can access the college website — mtctraining.com/QuickJobs — or visit the registration office. Program directors and instructors are also available for prospective students with specific questions. There are no college admissions tests required for anyone. You may reach the school at 803) 732-0432.

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livable wage,” she says. “So they’re looking for a career, or skills, that will provide them with a livable wage over the long-term.”

Minimal Costs, Education Needed Costs for the different courses vary. At the bottom end, you can become a cake decorator in six weeks at a total cost of $138. “That’s a Quick Job that people might not think of,” Pitts says, “but you think of all the grocery stores nowadays that have their own bakery and people who want to start their own businesses doing baking.” Other courses run up to $5,000 for the computer technician program or $7,500 for clinical massage therapy, both of which require more training. Most classes are in the $1,000 to $2,000 range, and training never lasts more than a year. For most classes, a high school diploma or the GED equivalent is all it takes to get in the door, and in many cases successful completion of the course is all it will take to get a position. In other areas, such as high-level Internet technology positions, employers may demand either a two-year or four-year degree.

Photo courtesy Midlands Tech

preparation for a very rigorous examination. Another popular area of interest is welding, thanks in part to planned construction of two reactors at the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station in Fairfield County. The Computer Numeric Control program is another that stays filled up, partly because employers simply can’t hire people fast enough Stewart Sneed, a trained welder, enrolled in the CNC program in August of 2010 and was hired a week-and-a-half later at RAM Clutches in Columbia, which manufactures aluminum clutch parts for race cars. Over the course of the next year, he worked and went to school. He has remained with the same employer, where he is now a CNC programmer.

IT, Other Fields There’s also an A Plus IT Technician program, which provides both training and

Entrepreneral Potential “Some people take these programs and then with their own entrepreneurial spirit they start their own businesses,” she says. “For instance, one program is locksmithing. Another is landscaping. Floral design. So there are a number of these programs that an individual can become involved in and start a business.” Student financial aid is available

“They’re looking for a career, or skills, that will provide them with a livable wage over the long-term.” — Cathy Pitts, Midlands Tech

Health Care Still Booming The most popular Quick Jobs programs involve health care, and classes typically fill up well in advance of their start date. These include such programs as Certified Nursing Assistant or Patient Care Technician, which incorporates training for EKG technician, cardiac care and phlebotomy positions. Health care graduates tend to find jobs quickly, either in hospitals, private clinics, nursing home facilities, or rehab centers.

ness and industry to stay aware of openings. “Lots of times employers will just call us and say, ‘Do you have some who are finishing up? We’d like to talk to some of them,’” Pitts says. Pitts says the school is looking for more QuickJobs course offerings, especially in manufacturing.

For Sneed, part of the advantage of the CNC program is that it’s a position that has gone from hard labor to high-tech. “It’s better to get paid to think than to do,” he says. Pitts says that according to current projections, most jobs over the next five years will require less than a four-year degree. What employers want are people with specific job skills. “So, the QuickJobs program really is designed to prove training needed to fill that gap between skills that employers need and the skills that potential employees have.” The college also works closely with busi-

throughout the Workforce Investment Act, administered by the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, depending on eligibility. Also private lending sources are available through the Sallie Mae Foundation, and students may also apply for the school’s NELNET Plan, where tuition is paid through installments. Once training is complete, Ms. Pitts said, many find jobs through the Department of Employment and Workforce. There’s also the college’s Student Employment Service, which assists with résumé writing, interviewing skills, and provides resources to help with employability skills.

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ifelong learning is essential for general knowledge, career placement and advancement, social and professional development, and a host of other reasons. As our world becomes increasingly more connected through advances in technology, virtual learning is becoming more common for students of all ages, from K-12 to senior adults. Smartphones, tablets, laptops and even the trusty old desktop make formal and informal online learning programs available 24/7 to most anyone with a device and an Internet connection. A few examples of the fairly recent virtual learning phenomenon include Khan Academy, featuring more than 3,000 free online tutorials in math, science, finance and economics, and humanities (khanacademy.org); iTunes U, an app that provides free access to thousands of lectures and courses from the world’s leading universities and educational organizations (apple. com/education/itunes-u); and MindSnacks, a San Francisco startup whose mobile language learning games were recently touted by Apple as “one of the best education apps of the year” (mindsnacks.com). As consumer demand for on-the-go learning increases, advanced delivery systems, accessibility and programs will continue to expand. For those seeking a formal degree or

For More Info Learn more about online degree programs offered by these local schools. Centura College www.centuracollege.edu (803) 754-7544 ECPI University www.ecpi.edu (803) 772-3333

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specialized certifications, schools of higher learning are offering more online programs than ever before for students whose schedule or location interferes with regular class attendance. Online courses are ideal for self-motivated individuals who work well independently, but it’s not a walk in the park. The rigors of any traditional course such as deadlines, required reading, writing assignments and exams are still there; the difference is that coursework can be completed on your own time instead of showing up for an on-campus class. Tuition for online degree programs is typically charged per credit hour, the same as traditional courses (at Phoenix University, for example, online and on-campus tuition runs anywhere from $395 to $585 per credit hour). Additional fees may apply,

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and some schools may require occasional on-campus attendance. Financial aid including grants, scholarships, loans and military discounts are often available for eligible students as well. While worldwide learning opportunities abound, here’s just a sample of degrees in high-demand fields that can be earned online from Midlands-area schools. (Program descriptions are compiled from various course catalogs.) As with any degree, though, you should do your research before entering a program. What are the job prospects in the field? (See “In-Demand Careers” on page 32 or visit www.bls.gov/ooh to start your research.) If you’re choosing between an online program and a traditional one, how does the cost compare? Is the institution you’re considering — and the specific degree track you’re looking at — respected in the field you want to enter? While online degrees are gaining in popularity, you’ll want to make sure the program you’re considering is considered legitimate in the field you wish to enter. The best way to do that is to talk to professionals already in the field and find out what their credentials are.

Midlands Technical College www.mtctraining.com/quickjobs (803) 732-0432

University of Phoenix www.phoenix.edu (803) 699-5096

Southern Regional Education Board electroniccampus.org Electronic marketplace of online courses and programs from the South’s colleges and universities.

USC Distributed Learning www.sc.edu/dl (803) 777-7218

Strayer University www.strayer.edu (803) 750-2500

Virginia College www.vc.edu (803) 509-7100

Associate’s Degrees Accounting Develop communication, critical thinking and quantitative reasoning skills, and strengthen your understanding of how political, cultural and societal factors shape our world. Classes focus on the accounting concepts, assumptions and principles used in preparation of accounting data, financial statements and financial reporting. Graduates may be interested in roles such as bookkeeper, accounts receivable or payable clerk, and other entry-level positions. Bachelor’s and master’s degrees available as well.

Business Administration Gain the knowledge and skills suitable for employment in a broad range of private and public sector organizations through course work in accounting, financial analysis, project management, communications, customer service, and workplace ethics. Bachelor’s and master’s degrees available as well, with concentrations in health care and management.

Medical Office Administration Medical office administration is a vital part of the health care industry. Careers can be found in medical offices, clinics, and outpatient and inpatient hospital settings. Duties include greeting and assisting patients on the phone and in the office, scheduling appointments, creating and maintaining patient records, transcribing physicians’ diagnostic comments and orders, billing insurance providers and patients, collecting and recording payments, and inputting data into computerized record systems.

Bachelor’s Degrees Criminal Justice The bachelor of science degree in criminal justice is designed to provide a multidimensional framework in law enforcement,

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HVAC Medical Computer Assisting Technician Networking

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criminal law, corrections, the criminal court system, and corporate, industrial and business security that will allow students to select from a wide range of employment opportunities upon completion. The curriculum includes course work in each of the aforementioned areas, along with courses designed to hone computer skills for technical expertise in the 21st century justice system. Associate’s and master’s degrees available as well.

Health Services Management Designed for those who wish to complete a health-based, multi-disciplinary degree for upward career mobility, or in response to employer requests for broadened health-services skills. This degree will support an expanded professional role with stronger communication skills, enhanced assessment skills, and the ability to better understand and respond to an increasingly diverse community. Graduates may find mid-level management positions in healthcare organizations including hospitals, physician practices, ambulatory care centers and home health agencies.

Management Information Systems Graduates from this program will be prepared for employment in positions involved with management and design of applications and distributed information systems. The professional employed as a manager of information systems is qualified to creatively identify, research and solve problems related to a wide variety of information fields. Career tracks that include the design and analysis of network infrastructures, software engineering, and

Medical Billing & Coding

Unsure about a four-year program?

management roles in the dynamic field of information technology.

Paralegal Studies

We offer career training in months, not years!

A Paralegal Studies degree provides a multidimensional framework in the legal field that will allow graduates to select from a wide range of employment opportunities. The curriculum includes course work in civil, criminal, administrative, and procedural law, along with courses designed to hone computer skills for technical expertise in the 21st century law office.

• Rapid Path to Graduation • Financial Aid if Qualified • Job Placement Assistance • Day and Evening Classes

Master’s Degrees Education A master of education provides K-12 and post-secondary educators, adult training and development professionals, instructional technology professionals, and other educational practitioners with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to create more effective learning environments, increase students’ success, and accept leadership roles as an outstanding educator.

800-458-3077

Located on 7500 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC. Accredited School, ACCSC.

Human Resource Management Become an effective manager and leader in an organization’s human resource department. Study how human resource management plays a strategic role in an organization while exploring many of the core functions of an HR department: total rewards, talent management, organizational development, HR information systems, and employee and labor relations. Learn how to create HR policies and strategies that deliver real business results. Bachelor’s degrees available as well.

Criminal Justice

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In-Demand Careers, continued from page 32

Science and Technology Careers It’s no surprise that computer information technology jobs are in demand. We’ve seen some of this growth right in our backyard, particular in tech-related insurance jobs. Nationally, jobs in this field are projected to grow by 22 percent, adding 758,000 new jobs from 2010 to 2020. There’s a continuing need for these jobs as businesses, government agencies and other organizations feel the need to adopt the latest technology, including mobile technology and business-specific applications. IT workers can expect to develop software, manage cybersecurity and update existing network infrastructure. Biomedical engineers create important medical devices like asthma inhalers and prosthetic limbs, and because we’re living longer, these jobs aren’t going anywhere either. In fact, biomedical engineers enjoy the third-fastest growing occupation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In most cases, biomedical engineers aren’t sitting at their desks all day, but you will face deadlines, so there’s a moderate level of stress involved. With median annual wages of $77,400, however, many in this field can afford a massage to alleviate the stress. When it comes to education, many biomed-

ical engineers have undergraduate degrees in mechanical or electronics engineering. If you’re looking for a career that doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree, you might want to look into mining, quarrying and oil and gas extraction positions, which are expected to grow by 4 percent in the next decade. While technology gains boost worker productivity, oil and gas extraction and nonmetallic mineral mining and quarrying are expected to account for much of the growth in this industry. If you’re interested in brushing up on your math and science, some other lucrative, secure careers in this category include meteorologist, system analyst and civil engineer.

Court Reporting, Firefighting, Urban Planning According to the Department of Labor, careers in court reporting will grow more than 18 percent between 2008 and 2018, which is faster than many other fields. Court reporters use stenotype machines to create transcripts quickly. Even though most positions in this field require a generous amount of sitting still, there is a range of jobs requiring similar skills — such as broadcast captioners for deaf viewers — that are contributing to the fast growth of the field. Court reporters can train

for the position in a variety of training programs offered at community college and other schools. Although there’s a lot of competition for jobs like firefighting, especially as cities make budget cuts, if you can land a job and like the adrenaline and satisfaction of helping out in high-stress situations, firefighting is government-supported work that comes with a pension that’s, for the most part, recession-resistant. Pay varies, but a high school degree is generally all that’s required for fire fighting, though this field is competitive and an associate’s degree or even a college degree will help. Careers in urban planning, social work and marriage and family therapy are also predicted to grow in the next decade.

$85,000, according to the Department of Labor. If you’re an extremely organized person who doesn’t mind biting off a big project, consider meeting and convention planning. Because companies are becoming increasingly global, they find value in gathering far-flung employees together for face-to-face meetings once or twice a year. Meeting planners also enjoy the flexibility that comes from either working as an independent consultant or working with a larger firm. Financial adviser, accountant and market research analyst positions are also predicted to grow in the business and finance sector over the next decade.

Business and Finance

We all know that calling a plumber can cost an arm and a leg, but when a homeowner needs their plumbing fixed, well, they need it fixed. And with upgrades available for more eco-friendly plumbing, if you’re a hands-on, fixer-upper kind of person, plumbing may be a lucrative career for you. There’s room to start your own business or work for an established plumber, either way the earning potential for plumbers is higher than the average service industry position. Plumbers usually take courses at a technical or vocational college and then complete an apprenticeship with a licensed plumber before becoming licensed themselves. Plumbing falls under the construction category, and between 2010 and 2020, employment of construction workers is expected to grow by 22 percent, adding 1.4 million jobs to the economy. Employment in arts and design occupations is expected to grow by 10 percent from 2010 to 2020, resulting in more then 76,000 new jobs. Much of this growth is expected to occur among graphic designers as more and more businesses and organizations advertise on the Internet and consult professional designers. Other creative and service industry jobs predicted to grow? Funeral director, film and video editor, and media and communications specialists — particularly with the rise in use of social media.

Business and finance positions have been slammed during the recession, but Wall Street has already started hiring again. Still, a less volatile path involving math and statistics is that of an actuary, the fastestgrowing career in the business and finance sector. What is an actuary? Basically, someone who assesses risk for a company — often an insurance company, of which Columbia has several — and tries to minimize it. If job stability is fulfilling for you, a position as an actuary, where you’d most likely be employed by an insurance provider estimated the likelihood or cost of claims, is a safe bet. There’s plenty of opportunity for moving up the ranks and although a bachelor’s degree and a strong background in math is required, the median pay for actuaries is

Creative and Service

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