How Online Degree Programs Can Improve Your Standard of Living

Education has an extensive role in a person’s future opportunities and life choices, and making the right educational decision can change a person’s entire standard of living. It’s no secret that higher education leads to higher pay, but, for many adults who are already managing multiple jobs and a family, earning a degree can seem like a far-fetched fantasy. It doesn’t have to be that way. While many adults pursue their education by physically attending classes, online degree programs have increased in popularity, due to accessibility and flexibility. Choosing to get an online degree is a big decision that requires time dedication, money and labor, but the true value of what you will be obtaining is well worth the struggle.

Earning the right online degree can lead to many beneficial things like financial independence, job security and higher self-esteem. What attracts many adults to online degree programs is not having to adhere to a strict class schedule while still being able to better their careers on their own time. Adults want to be able to pursue higher education, while still having the capability of working full-time and/or taking care of their families. food-stamps.org understands how important it is to pursue the right online degree programs; which is why our team has compiled some of the top online degree programs that will lead to higher standards of living and thriving careers.

About Medical Laboratory Technicians or Technologists

Laboratory technicians or technologists collect and analyze samples of bodily fluids, tissues and other substances. Laboratory technicians and technologists also study blood samples for use in transfusions and operate lab equipment, such as cell counters and microscopes. Many universities across the nation offer 100 percent online programs to earn your bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science. The food-stamps.org team found that employment of medical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 16 percent by 2024, which surpasses the average in the nation for all occupations. The average income for a laboratory technician or technologist is $50,930.

More than half of all medical laboratory technologists and technicians work in hospitals. Others work in diagnostic laboratories and doctor’s offices. Laboratory technicians and technologists also have a lot of room for growth. With further work experience or certification, technicians and technologists can advance in their careers by specializing in one of the many laboratory science areas, such as immunology, histotechnology or clinical chemistry.

About Computer Systems Analysts

The team at food-stamps.org understand that people tend to avoid jobs that involve computers, because they assume the difficulty level is too high, but there is nothing someone cannot be taught. This position is not just for those who consider themselves technology prodigies. However, ideal candidates in this field should possess an interest in technology and have great communication skills. Computer system analysts work as liaisons between IT departments and clients. They can even be involved with technical questions and considerations. For those interested in this career, consider bachelor’s programs in information technology. Various universities across the nation offer 100 percent online degree programs in information technology. The average income for a computer systems analyst is $79,680.

About Human Resources Managers

Human resources managers direct, coordinate and plan the administrative functions of a company or an organization. They also conduct interviews and recruit potential employees for the companies. A human resources manager serves as the tie between a company’s management and its employees. This position is ideal because of its high earning potential and its demand in nearly every industry. The human resources industry is expected to experience a 9 percent growth by 2024. Candidates interested in working as human resources managers can earn bachelor’s degrees in human resources from one of the many online degree programs offered for this career. The food-stamps.org team found that to work as a human resources manager, a candidate must essentially possess a bachelor’s degree and several years of work experience as a human resources specialist, which is the equivalent of an entry-level position in the human resources industry. The average income for a human resources manager is $106,910. Most human resources managers work in office environments.

About Labor Relations Specialists

Labor relations specialists oversee the application and interpretation of labor contracts. They are the ones responsible for salaries and pensions, and relations between unions and management. Labor relations specialists typically work in offices, and most work regular business hours. The projected growth for this occupation is expected to decline by eight percent by 2024, but the salary is still highly attractive. The average income for a labor relations specialist is $62,310. Candidates interested in becoming labor relations specialists should enroll in online programs to earn their bachelor’s degrees in labor relations, industrial relations, human resources or another related field.

About Recreational Therapists

Recreational therapists facilitate recreation-based treatment for those with disabilities, injuries or illnesses. These types of therapists use a wide array of techniques, including arts and crafts, music, dance, sports and games to help main or improve a patient’s physical and emotional state. Employment in this field is projected to grow 12 percent by 2024, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Most recreational therapists are employed by inpatient hospitals, mental health facilities, school systems and hospice care. The average income for a recreational therapist is $46,410. Candidates who are interested in rewarding and stable careers like recreational therapy should seek an online program that offers a bachelor’s degree in the field.

About Cost Estimators

Cost estimators collect and analyze data to estimate the money, time, materials and labor required to construct a building or to manufacture a product. They generally specialize in one or the other. Cost estimators work mostly in offices, but often visit worksites or factory floors to visualize their projects. A strong background in mathematics is essential to this role. Ideally, a cost estimator should be highly organized. Employment in this field is projected to grow nine percent by 2024, which is higher than the average for all occupations. High demand of this position is driven by companies that need factual cost estimates to operate their projects effortlessly. The average income for a cost estimator is $61,790. The food-stamps.org group suggests that candidates who seek to pursue this career enroll in online programs that offer a bachelor’s degree in construction management, building science, accounting or economics.