These are the hardest careers to get into.
Extensive skills, knowledge, and experience are needed for these careers. Many require more than 5 years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete 4 years of college and an additional 5 to 7 years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
They may also need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.
Other careers sorted by difficulty to get in:
Easiest | Easy | Medium | Hard | Hardest (You are here)
Anesthesiologists
administer anesthetics prior to, during, or after surgery or other medical procedures.
$271440
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Surgeons
treat diseases, injuries, and deformities by invasive, minimally-invasive, or non-invasive surgical methods, such as using instruments, appliances, or by manual manipulation.
$251650
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
OBGYNs
provide medical care related to pregnancy or childbirth and those who diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases of women, particularly those affecting the reproductive system. May also provide general medical care to women.
$239120
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Orthodontists
examine, diagnose, and treat dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies. Design and fabricate appliances to realign teeth and jaws to produce and maintain normal function and to improve appearance.
$237990
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Oral Surgeons
perform surgery and related procedures on the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial regions to treat diseases, injuries, or defects. May diagnose problems of the oral and maxillofacial regions. May perform surgery to improve function or appearance.
$234990
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Allergists and Immunologists
diagnose, treat, and help prevent allergic diseases and disease processes affecting the immune system.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Dermatologists
diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases or other conditions of the skin.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Hospitalists
provide inpatient care predominantly in settings such as medical wards, acute care units, intensive care units, rehabilitation centers, or emergency rooms. Manage and coordinate patient care throughout treatment.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Neurologists
diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and disorders of the nervous system.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Nuclear Medicine Physicians
diagnose and treat diseases using radioactive materials and techniques. May monitor radionuclide preparation, administration, and disposition.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Ophthalmologists
diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries of the eyes and related structures.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Pathologists
diagnose presence and stage of diseases using laboratory techniques and patient specimens. Study the nature, cause, and development of diseases. May perform autopsies.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Physical Medicine and Rehab Physicians
diagnose and treat disorders requiring physiotherapy to provide physical, mental, and occupational rehabilitation.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Preventive Medicine Physicians
apply knowledge of general preventive medicine and public health issues to promote health care to groups or individuals, and aid in the prevention or reduction of risk of disease, injury, disability, or death. May practice population-based medicine or diagnose and treat patients in the context of clinical health promotion and disease prevention.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Radiologists
examine and diagnose disorders and diseases using x-rays and radioactive materials. May treat patients.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Sports Medicine Physicians
diagnose, treat, and help prevent injuries that occur during sporting events, athletic training, and physical activities.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Urologists
diagnose, treat, and help prevent benign and malignant medical and surgical disorders of the genitourinary system and the renal glands.
$218850
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Acupuncturists
provide treatment of symptoms and disorders using needles and small electrical currents. May provide massage treatment. May also provide preventive treatments.
$218850
Master's degree
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Naturopathic Physicians
diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases using a system of practice that is based on the natural healing capacity of individuals. May use physiological, psychological or mechanical methods. May also use natural medicines, prescription or legend drugs, foods, herbs, or other natural remedies.
$218850
Doctoral degree
High job satisfaction
Orthoptists
diagnose and treat visual system disorders such as binocular vision and eye movement impairments.
$218850
Bachelor's degree
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Psychiatrists
diagnose, treat, and help prevent disorders of the mind.
$217100
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Prosthodontists
diagnose, treat, rehabilitate, design, and fit prostheses that maintain oral function, health, and appearance for patients with clinical conditions associated with teeth, oral and maxillofacial tissues, or the jaw.
$214870
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Family and General Practitioners
diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries that commonly occur in the general population. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.
$214370
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Internists
diagnose and provide non-surgical treatment of diseases and injuries of internal organ systems. Provide care mainly for adults who have a wide range of problems associated with the internal organs.
$210960
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Chief Executives
determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
$197840
Master's degree
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Chief Sustainability Officers
communicate and coordinate with management, shareholders, customers, and employees to address sustainability issues. Enact or oversee a corporate sustainability strategy.
$197840
Bachelor's degree
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Nurse Anesthetists
administer anesthesia, monitor patient's vital signs, and oversee patient recovery from anesthesia. May assist anesthesiologists, surgeons, other physicians, or dentists. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
$189190
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Pediatricians
diagnose, treat, and help prevent children's diseases and injuries.
$184570
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Dentists
examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care.
$180830
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Architectural and Engineering Managers
plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or research and development in these fields.
$158100
Bachelor's degree
High job satisfaction
Natural Sciences Managers
plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
$154930
Bachelor's degree
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Treasurers and Controllers
direct financial activities, such as planning, procurement, and investments for all or part of an organization.
$151510
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Podiatrists
diagnose and treat diseases and deformities of the human foot.
$151110
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Personality Match
Lawyers
represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
$148910
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
Strong job growth
Personality Match
Physicists
conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
$137700
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Law Professors
teach courses in law. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$134760
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Judges and Magistrates
arbitrate, advise, adjudicate, or administer justice in a court of law. May sentence defendant in criminal cases according to government statutes or sentencing guidelines. May determine liability of defendant in civil cases. May perform wedding ceremonies.
$131850
Doctoral degree
High job satisfaction
Computer Research Scientists
conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
$130890
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Astronomers
observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
$126250
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Pharmacists
dispense drugs prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners and provide information to patients about medications and their use. May advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications.
$125460
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Optometrists
diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
$125440
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Health Specialties Professors
teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.
$124890
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Political Scientists
study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents.
$124100
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Economics Professors
teach courses in economics. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$123720
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Economists
conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric methods.
$120880
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Environmental Economists
conduct economic analysis related to environmental protection and use of the natural environment, such as water, air, land, and renewable energy resources. Evaluate and quantify benefits, costs, incentives, and impacts of alternative options using economic principles and statistical techniques.
$120880
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Medical and Health Services Managers
plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
$118800
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Physician Assistants
provide healthcare services typically performed by a physician, under the supervision of a physician. Conduct complete physicals, provide treatment, and counsel patients. May, in some cases, prescribe medication. Must graduate from an accredited educational program for physician assistants.
$116080
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Anesthesiologist Assistants
assist anesthesiologists in the administration of anesthesia for surgical and non-surgical procedures. Monitor patient status and provide patient care during surgical treatment.
$116080
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Nurse Midwives
diagnose and coordinate all aspects of the birthing process, either independently or as part of a healthcare team. May provide well-woman gynecological care. Must have specialized, graduate nursing education.
$115540
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Postsecondary Principals
plan, direct, or coordinate student instruction, administration, and services, as well as other research and educational activities, at postsecondary institutions, including universities, colleges, and junior and community colleges.
$115200
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Nurse Practitioners
diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a healthcare team. May focus on health promotion and disease prevention. May order, perform, or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x rays. May prescribe medication. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
$114510
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Engineering Professors
teach courses pertaining to the application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development of machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services. Includes teachers of subjects such as chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, mineral, and petroleum engineering. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$114130
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
I/O Psychologists
apply principles of psychology to human resources, administration, management, sales, and marketing problems. Activities may include policy planning; employee testing and selection, training, and development; and organizational development and analysis. May work with management to organize the work setting to improve worker productivity.
$112690
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Mathematicians
conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.
$112530
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Remote Sensing Scientists
apply remote sensing principles and methods to analyze data and solve problems in areas such as natural resource management, urban planning, or homeland security. May develop new sensor systems, analytical techniques, or new applications for existing systems.
$110100
Master's degree
Veterinarians
diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.
$108350
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Business Professors
teach courses in business administration and management, such as accounting, finance, human resources, labor and industrial relations, marketing, and operations research. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$107270
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Biologists
research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.
$104810
Master's degree
Biochemists and Biophysicists
study the chemical composition or physical principles of living cells and organisms, their electrical and mechanical energy, and related phenomena. May conduct research to further understanding of the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. May determine the effects of foods, drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on tissues and vital processes of living organisms.
$104810
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Earth, Marine and Space Professors
teach courses in the physical sciences, except chemistry and physics. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$104710
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Materials Scientists
research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite materials, including metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glass. Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications. Includes glass scientists, ceramic scientists, metallurgical scientists, and polymer scientists.
$104450
Bachelor's degree
Elementary and Secondary School Principals
plan, direct, or coordinate the academic, administrative, or auxiliary activities of kindergarten, elementary, or secondary schools.
$103010
Master's degree
High job satisfaction
Administrative Law Judges
conduct hearings to recommend or make decisions on claims concerning government programs or other government-related matters. Determine liability, sanctions, or penalties, or recommend the acceptance or rejection of claims or settlements.
$102050
Doctoral degree
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Medical Scientists
conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities.
$101800
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Biology Professors
teach courses in biological sciences. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$101320
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Physics Professors
teach courses pertaining to the laws of matter and energy. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$101290
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Political Science Professors
teach courses in political science, international affairs, and international relations. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$100970
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Architecture Professors
teach courses in architecture and architectural design, such as architectural environmental design, interior architecture/design, and landscape architecture. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$100820
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Clinical Neuropsychologists
apply theories and principles of neuropsychology to diagnose and treat disorders of higher cerebral functioning.
$100130
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Personality Match
Anthropology and Archeology Professors
teach courses in anthropology or archeology. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$98740
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Computer Science Professors
teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$98680
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Statisticians
develop or apply mathematical or statistical theory and methods to collect, organize, interpret, and summarize numerical data to provide usable information. May specialize in fields such as biostatistics, agricultural statistics, business statistics, or economic statistics. Includes mathematical and survey statisticians.
$97170
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Biostatisticians
develop and apply biostatistical theory and methods to the study of life sciences.
$97170
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Environmental Engineers
research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines. Work may include waste treatment, site remediation, or pollution control technology.
$96890
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Investment Fund Managers
plan, direct, or coordinate investment strategy or operations for a large pool of liquid assets supplied by institutional investors or individual investors.
$96630
Master's degree
High job satisfaction
Agricultural Sciences Professors
teach courses in the agricultural sciences. Includes teachers of agronomy, dairy sciences, fisheries management, horticultural sciences, poultry sciences, range management, and agricultural soil conservation. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$96200
Doctoral degree
High job satisfaction
Fuel Cell Engineers
design, evaluate, modify, or construct fuel cell components or systems for transportation, stationary, or portable applications.
$95560
Bachelor's degree
High job satisfaction
Chemistry Professors
teach courses pertaining to the chemical and physical properties and compositional changes of substances. Work may include providing instruction in the methods of qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$94630
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Environmental Science Professors
teach courses in environmental science. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$94520
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Distance Learning Coordinators
coordinate day-to-day operations of distance learning programs and schedule courses.
$93830
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Human Factors Engineers
design objects, facilities, and environments to optimize human well-being and overall system performance, applying theory, principles, and data regarding the relationship between humans and respective technology. Investigate and analyze characteristics of human behavior and performance as it relates to the use of technology.
$93610
Master's degree
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Sociologists
study human society and social behavior by examining the groups and social institutions that people form, as well as various social, religious, political, and business organizations. May study the behavior and interaction of groups, trace their origin and growth, and analyze the influence of group activities on individual members.
$93420
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Forestry and Conservation Professors
teach courses in forestry and conservation science. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$92420
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Operations Research Analysts
formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, services, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.
$92280
Master's degree
Strong job growth
Microbiologists
investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
$91840
Bachelor's degree
Physical Therapists
assess, plan, organize, and participate in rehabilitative programs that improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength, and improve or correct disabling conditions resulting from disease or injury.
$91680
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Philosophy and Religion Professors
teach courses in philosophy, religion, and theology. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$90160
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Psychology Professors
teach courses in psychology, such as child, clinical, and developmental psychology, and psychological counseling. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$89960
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Bioinformatics Scientists
conduct research using bioinformatics theory and methods in areas such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology, biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, biology and medical informatics. May design databases and develop algorithms for processing and analyzing genomic information, or other biological information.
$89910
Bachelor's degree
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
research and study cellular molecules and organelles to understand cell function and organization.
$89910
Doctoral degree
Geneticists
research and study the inheritance of traits at the molecular, organism or population level. May evaluate or treat patients with genetic disorders.
$89910
Doctoral degree
Genetic Counselors
assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. Provide information to other healthcare providers or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions. Advise individuals and families to support informed decisionmaking and coping methods for those at risk. May help conduct research related to genetic conditions or genetic counseling.
$89710
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
School Psychologists
investigate processes of learning and teaching and develop psychological principles and techniques applicable to educational problems.
$89290
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Clinical Psychologists
diagnose or evaluate mental and emotional disorders of individuals through observation, interview, and psychological tests, and formulate and administer programs of treatment.
$89290
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Counseling Psychologists
assess and evaluate individuals' problems through the use of case history, interview, and observation and provide individual or group counseling services to assist individuals in achieving more effective personal, social, educational, and vocational development and adjustment.
$89290
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Audiologists
assess and treat persons with hearing and related disorders. May fit hearing aids and provide auditory training. May perform research related to hearing problems.
$89230
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Cultural Studies Professors
teach courses pertaining to the culture and development of an area, an ethnic group, or any other group, such as Latin American studies, women's studies, or urban affairs. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$88790
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Occupational Therapists
assess, plan, and organize rehabilitative programs that help build or restore vocational, homemaking, and daily living skills, as well as general independence, to persons with disabilities or developmental delays. Use therapeutic techniques, adapt the individual's environment, teach skills, and modify specific tasks that present barriers to the individual.
$87480
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Vision Rehabilitation Therapists
provide therapy to patients with visual impairments to improve their functioning in daily life activities. May train patients in activities such as computer use, communication skills, or home management skills.
$87480
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Geography Professors
teach courses in geography. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$87160
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Mathematics Professors
teach courses pertaining to mathematical concepts, statistics, and actuarial science and to the application of original and standardized mathematical techniques in solving specific problems and situations. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$86760
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
History Professors
teach courses in human history and historiography. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$85630
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Geographers
study the nature and use of areas of the Earth's surface, relating and interpreting interactions of physical and cultural phenomena. Conduct research on physical aspects of a region, including land forms, climates, soils, plants, and animals, and conduct research on the spatial implications of human activities within a given area, including social characteristics, economic activities, and political organization, as well as researching interdependence between regions at scales ranging from local to global.
$85620
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
Sociology Professors
teach courses in sociology. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$85180
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Art, Drama and Music Professors
teach courses in drama, music, and the arts including fine and applied art, such as painting and sculpture, or design and crafts. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$84780
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Nursing Professors
demonstrate and teach patient care in classroom and clinical units to nursing students. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$84060
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Chiropractors
assess, treat, and care for patients by manipulation of spine and musculoskeletal system. May provide spinal adjustment or address sacral or pelvic misalignment.
$83830
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Epidemiologists
investigate and describe the determinants and distribution of disease, disability, or health outcomes. May develop the means for prevention and control.
$83620
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Speech-Language Pathologists
assess and treat persons with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. May select alternative communication systems and teach their use. May perform research related to speech and language problems.
$83240
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Home Economics Professors
teach courses in childcare, family relations, finance, nutrition, and related subjects pertaining to home management. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$81580
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
English Literature Professors
teach courses in English language and literature, including linguistics and comparative literature. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$81340
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Communications Professors
teach courses in communications, such as organizational communications, public relations, radio/television broadcasting, and journalism. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$80940
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Foreign Language Professors
teach languages and literature courses in languages other than English. Includes teachers of American Sign Language (ASL). Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$80410
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Climate Change Analysts
research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.
$80090
Master's degree
Strong job growth
Personality Match
Environmental Restoration Planners
collaborate with field and biology staff to oversee the implementation of restoration projects and to develop new products. Process and synthesize complex scientific data into practical strategies for restoration, monitoring or management.
$80090
Master's degree
Strong job growth
APN Psychotherapists
assess, diagnose, and treat individuals and families with mental health or substance use disorders or the potential for such disorders. Apply therapeutic activities, including the prescription of medication, per state regulations, and the administration of psychotherapy.
$80010
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Clinical Nurse Specialists
direct nursing staff in the provision of patient care in a clinical practice setting, such as a hospital, hospice, clinic, or home. Ensure adherence to established clinical policies, protocols, regulations, and standards.
$80010
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Urban and Regional Planners
develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
$79410
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Social Work Professors
teach courses in social work. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$78110
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Library Science Professors
teach courses in library science. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$77560
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Arbitrators and Conciliators
facilitate negotiation and conflict resolution through dialogue. Resolve conflicts outside of the court system by mutual consent of parties involved.
$76440
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
PE Professors
teach courses pertaining to recreation, leisure, and fitness studies, including exercise physiology and facilities management. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$75430
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Education Professors
teach courses pertaining to education, such as counseling, curriculum, guidance, instruction, teacher education, and teaching English as a second language. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$75010
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Criminal Justice Professors
teach courses in criminal justice, corrections, and law enforcement administration. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
$74740
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Animal Scientists
conduct research in the genetics, nutrition, reproduction, growth, and development of domestic farm animals.
$74540
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Orthotists and Prosthetists
design, measure, fit, and adapt orthopedic braces, appliances or prostheses, such as limbs or facial parts for patients with disabling conditions.
$74120
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Soil and Plant Scientists
conduct research in breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative practices on soil and crop productivity.
$73040
Doctoral degree
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential use of land and water habitats.
$70510
Bachelor's degree
High job satisfaction
Instructional Coordinators
develop instructional material, coordinate educational content, and incorporate current technology into instruction in order to provide guidelines to educators and instructors for developing curricula and conducting courses. May train and coach teachers. Includes educational consultants and specialists, and instructional material directors.
$70160
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Instructional Designers
develop instructional materials and products and assist in the technology-based redesign of courses. Assist faculty in learning about, becoming proficient in, and applying instructional technology.
$70160
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Anthropologists
research, evaluate, and establish public policy concerning the origins of humans; their physical, social, linguistic, and cultural development; and their behavior, as well as the cultures, organizations, and institutions they have created.
$69960
Master's degree
Strong job growth
Archeologists
conduct research to reconstruct record of past human life and culture from human remains, artifacts, architectural features, and structures recovered through excavation, underwater recovery, or other means of discovery.
$69960
Doctoral degree
Strong job growth
Historians
research, analyze, record, and interpret the past as recorded in sources, such as government and institutional records, newspapers and other periodicals, photographs, interviews, films, electronic media, and unpublished manuscripts, such as personal diaries and letters.
$68400
Master's degree
High job satisfaction
Survey Researchers
plan, develop, or conduct surveys. May analyze and interpret the meaning of survey data, determine survey objectives, or suggest or test question wording. Includes social scientists who primarily design questionnaires or supervise survey teams.
$66960
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
Set and Exhibit Designers
design special exhibits and sets for film, video, television, and theater productions. May study scripts, confer with directors, and conduct research to determine appropriate architectural styles.
$64610
Bachelor's degree
High job satisfaction
Dietitians and Nutritionists
plan and conduct food service or nutritional programs to assist in the promotion of health and control of disease. May supervise activities of a department providing quantity food services, counsel individuals, or conduct nutritional research.
$64150
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Judicial Law Clerks
assist judges in court or by conducting research or preparing legal documents.
$63860
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
Librarians
administer libraries and perform related library services. Work in a variety of settings, including public libraries, educational institutions, museums, corporations, government agencies, law firms, non-profit organizations, and healthcare providers. Tasks may include selecting, acquiring, cataloguing, classifying, circulating, and maintaining library materials; and furnishing reference, bibliographical, and readers' advisory services. May perform in-depth, strategic research, and synthesize, analyze, edit, and filter information. May set up or work with databases and information systems to catalogue and access information.
$63560
Master's degree
High job satisfaction
SODA Counselors
advise and assist students and provide educational and vocational guidance services.
$62320
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Curators
administer collections, such as artwork, collectibles, historic items, or scientific specimens of museums or other institutions. May conduct instructional, research, or public service activities of institution.
$61650
Master's degree
Strong job growth
Archivists
appraise, edit, and direct safekeeping of permanent records and historically valuable documents. Participate in research activities based on archival materials.
$61210
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Healthcare Social Workers
provide individuals, families, and groups with the psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses. Services include advising family caregivers. Provide patients with information and counseling, and make referrals for other services. May also provide case and care management or interventions designed to promote health, prevent disease, and address barriers to access to healthcare.
$60470
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Marriage and Family Therapists
diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders, whether cognitive, affective, or behavioral, within the context of marriage and family systems. Apply psychotherapeutic and family systems theories and techniques in the delivery of services to individuals, couples, and families for the purpose of treating such diagnosed nervous and mental disorders.
$56890
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Clergy
conduct religious worship and perform other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faith or denomination. Provide spiritual and moral guidance and assistance to members.
$56560
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Cytotechnologists
stain, mount, and study cells to detect evidence of cancer, hormonal abnormalities, and other pathological conditions following established standards and practices.
$55990
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Farm and Home Management Advisors
instruct and advise individuals and families engaged in agriculture, agricultural-related processes, or home management activities. Demonstrate procedures and apply research findings to advance agricultural and home management activities. May develop educational outreach programs. May instruct on either agricultural issues such as agricultural processes and techniques, pest management, and food safety, or on home management issues such as budgeting, nutrition, and child development.
$54870
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Mental Health Social Workers
assess and treat individuals with mental, emotional, or substance abuse problems, including abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs. Activities may include individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, case management, client advocacy, prevention, and education.
$54540
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Exercise Physiologists
assess, plan, or implement fitness programs that include exercise or physical activities such as those designed to improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, or flexibility.
$54020
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Athletic Trainers
evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses. Provide preventive, therapeutic, emergency, and rehabilitative care.
$52230
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Certified Alcohol Drug Counselors
counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.
$51550
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Mental Health Counselors
counsel and advise individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health, with an emphasis on prevention. May help individuals deal with a broad range of mental health issues, such as those associated with addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting, and marital problems; stress management; self-esteem; or aging.
$51550
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Art Therapists
plan or conduct art therapy sessions or programs to improve clients' physical, cognitive, or emotional well-being.
$51260
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Rehabilitation Counselors
counsel individuals to maximize the independence and employability of persons coping with personal, social, and vocational difficulties that result from birth defects, illness, disease, accidents, aging, or the stress of daily life. Coordinate activities for residents of care and treatment facilities. Assess client needs and design and implement rehabilitation programs that may include personal and vocational counseling, training, and job placement.
$42080
Master's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction
Personality Match
Graduate Teaching Assistants
assist faculty or other instructional staff in postsecondary institutions by performing teaching or teaching-related duties, such as teaching lower level courses, developing teaching materials, preparing and giving examinations, and grading examinations or papers. Graduate teaching assistants must be enrolled in a graduate school program. Graduate assistants who primarily perform non-teaching duties, such as research, should be reported in the occupational category related to the work performed.
$39460
Bachelor's degree
Strong job growth
High job satisfaction