With most unemployment rates up and few unemployment rates down, many workers are toying with the idea of pursuing a degree to make themselves more attractive to potential employers. The problem is, going back to school can be overwhelming and sometimes time-consuming, and if you need to care for your family or work a part- or full-time job in tandem, you may not have the bandwidth to commit to a bachelor’s or master’s degree program.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently updated their list of fastest growing career opportunities over the next six years. It turns out that many of them require only an associate’s degree, certificate, or on-the-job training to get your foot in the door.

Employment in occupations that require an associate’s degree is expected to increase more rapidly than employment in any other education or training category in the next eight years. Several fast-growing healthcare occupations will drive a substantial proportion of this change. Take a look at six of the fastest growing occupations that require less than a bachelor’s degree:

Job Title: Home health aides
Median Annual Earnings: $20,460
Education & Training Required: Certificate and on-the-job training

Job Title: Skin-care specialist
Median Annual Earnings: $28,730
Education Required: Certificate

Job Title: Physical therapist assistants
Median Annual Earnings: $23,760
Education & Training Required: Associate’s degree

Job Title: Dental hygienists
Median Annual Earnings: $66,570
Education & Training Required: Associate’s degree

Job Title: Veterinary technicians
Median Annual Earnings: $28,900
Education Required: Associate’s degree

Job Title: Environmental engineering technician
Median Annual Earnings: $41,100
Education Required: Associate’s degree or other postsecondary training

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