Preschooler practicing correct pronunciation with a speech therapist.

Fastest growing occupations that earn over $75,000 per year

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June 17, 2019
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Fastest growing occupations that earn over $75,000 per year

The unemployment rate in the United States has decreased drastically over the past year or so, meaning there are more jobs than ever before and many people—especially those just entering the workforce—are able to find jobs in their respective fields with some ease. With booms in tech and healthcare, industries and occupations are developing rapidly. Certain occupations, such as mechanical engineers and human resources managers, are projected to grow by more than 8% (from 2016 to 2026) and are expected to pay on average $87,000 and $113,000 dollars respectively.

Stacker analyzed data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook, which was last updated on April 12, 2019, to determine the fastest-growing occupations that earn more than a median annual wage of $75,000. The Occupational Outlook Handbook shows that, out of 818 total occupations, only 148 have a median annual pay of $75,000 or more, which accounts for roughly 18% of occupations. Slides are ranked by projected growth rate from 2016 to 2026 and ties were broken by the 2018 median annual wage. Any occupations that had the phrase “all other” in them were not included, as these occupations usually entail several similar jobs and cannot give accurate or detailed wage and growth data.

Many of these occupations only require a bachelor's degree, while some require doctoral or professional degrees and even fewer only require a high school diploma. For those interested in pursuing a lucrative career but unsure of where to start, this list provides a general understanding of which occupations to pursue across industries, what each occupation entails, and what skills are necessary to excel in these careers.

Keep reading to find out more about the fastest growing occupations in the United States that earn more than $75,000 per year.

You may also like: 50 fastest-growing jobs for the future

#50. Health and safety engineers, except mining safety engineers and inspectors

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 8.49%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 25,900
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +2,200
- 2018 median annual wage: $89,130
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Health and safety engineers inspect facilities, machinery, and safety equipment with the intention of identifying and correcting potential hazards. These engineers need critical thinking skills to spot potential problems and creativity when it comes to creating solutions. This occupation is expected to increase as buildings, products, and processes become increasingly more complex.

#49. Mechanical engineers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 8.76%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 288,800
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +25,300
- 2018 median annual wage: $87,370
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Mechanical engineers design and develop mechanical devices, such as tools and machines. These types of engineers mainly work in offices, with some travel to work sites. They participate in research and development and manufacturing of products, indicating that they need technical skills as well as interpersonal skills. These occupations are expected to increase as a result of the advances in technology.

#48. Human resources managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 9.04%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 136,100
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +12,300
- 2018 median annual wage: $113,300
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Human resources managers oversee recruiting, interviewing, and hiring of new staff. They also plan and coordinate the administrative functions of an organization. Managers typically have five or more years of experience and require extremely strong interpersonal skills. HR manager positions are expected to increase by a little over 9% as new companies form and existing companies grow.

#47. Computer systems analysts

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 9.06%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 600,500
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +54,400
- 2018 median annual wage: $88,740
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Computer systems analysts evaluate a company's computer systems and procedures and design solutions to help organizations operate efficiently. Analytical skills, communication skills, and creativity are very important skills to have in order to be effective in this job. The increase in demand for this occupation stems from the new widespread usage of cloud computing as well as an increase in IT services in new industries, such as healthcare.

#46. Advertising and promotions managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 9.54%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 249,600
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +23,800
- 2018 median annual wage: $132,620
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Advertising and promotions managers create programs to drive interest in a product or service. Managers typically have previous experience in advertising, marketing, promotions, or sales and require strong communication, decision-making, and interpersonal skills, among others. This occupation is expected to grow faster than average as companies seek to maintain and expand their marketplace shares.

#45. Financial examiners

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 9.71%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 52,500
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +5,100
- 2018 median annual wage: $80,180
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Financial examiners review balance sheets, evaluate risk levels, and assess bank management as well as ensure compliance with laws and regulations. This occupation requires knowledge and training in accounting, as well as math, writing, and analytical skills. With a roughly expected 10% increase, financial examiners are in demand as financial institutions need assistance with federal regulatory compliance.

#44. Industrial engineers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 9.73%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 257,900
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +25,100
- 2018 median annual wage: $87,040
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Industrial engineers create efficient systems that integrate machines, materials workers, and information to provide a service or produce a product. These types of engineers need critical-thinking skills, math, and problem-solving skills, as well as communication skills to be successful. Employment of this occupation is expected to increase at a faster than average rate of 10% as companies will continue to seek innovative ways to contain costs and improve efficiency.

#43. Natural sciences managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 9.88%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 56,700
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +5,600
- 2018 median annual wage: $123,860
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Natural sciences managers supervise scientists, such as chemists, physicists, and biologists, and the work that they produce—mainly focusing on research and development testing, quality control, and production. Most people in this profession work as scientists prior to becoming managers and have strong leadership, interpersonal, and time-management skills. Employment of natural sciences managers is projected to grow at a rate of 10%, similar to the rate of employment for scientists in this field.

 

#42. Nuclear medicine technologists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 9.95%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 20,100
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +2,000
- 2018 median annual wage: $76,820
- Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree

Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radioactive drugs to patients for imaging or therapeutic purposes. Certification and licensure are recommended for this occupation, and technologists need to be detail-oriented, compassionate, and able to use technology. Technologist positions are expected to increase at a faster rate than average as a result of the aging population that may need more nuclear medical treatment.

#41. Podiatrists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 10.00%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 11,000
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +1,100
- 2018 median annual wage: $129,550
- Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Podiatrists provide medical and surgical care and support for people with foot, ankle, or lower leg problems. They must have a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree as well as three years of residency. Due to the aging population, podiatrist employment is projected to increase at a rate faster than average at 10%.

#40. Education administrators, postsecondary

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 10.11%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 180,100
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +18,200
- 2018 median annual wage: $94,340
- Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Postsecondary education administrators manage student services, academics, and faculty. Responsibilities can range from overseeing student life to running the registrar's office. These types of administrators typically have a master's degree and experience working in the field. Skills range from computer knowledge and organizational skills to interpersonal and problem-solving skills. Employment is expected to grow at a faster than average rate due to increasing enrollment at colleges and universities.

#39. Administrative services managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 10.12%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 281,700
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +28,500
- 2018 median annual wage: $96,180
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Administrative services managers plan, direct, and coordinate support services within an organization. Most positions require some work experience in the industry prior to becoming a manager and also require communication, analytical, and leadership skills. As businesses and companies continue to grow, the need for administrative services managers is projected to increase at a faster-than-average rate.

#38. Training and development managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 10.43%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 34,500
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +3,600
- 2018 median annual wage: $111,340
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Training and development managers oversee staff as well as plan, direct, and coordinate programs to advance the knowledge and skills of employees at an organization. Some industries prefer to hire managers who are certified, and candidates usually have experience in the field. Jobs in this field are projected to rise faster than average due to demand for workplace training and education.

#37. Hydrologists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 10.45%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 6,700
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +700
- 2018 median annual wage: $79,370
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Hydrologists examine how water moves across the world and beneath the Earth's crust. They use their knowledge to solve problems relating to water quality and availability. Most hydrologists hold at least a bachelor's degree, while some hold master's degrees. For advanced research and university faculty positions, hydrologists typically hold a Ph.D. The demand for this occupation is expected to grow faster than average due to concerns surrounding population growth and other environmental factors.

#36. Public relations and fundraising managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 10.48%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 73,500
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +7,700
- 2018 median annual wage: $114,800
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Public relations and fundraising managers plan and organize the creation of material relating to the public image of their employer or client. Important skills in this occupation include leadership, organization, problem-solving, speaking, and writing. With the growth of social media, public relations positions are projected to grow at a rate of more than 10%.

#35. Civil engineers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 10.61%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 303,500
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +32,200
- 2018 median annual wage: $86,640
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Civil engineers design, build, and operate infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sector. They typically need a graduate degree and licensure for senior positions and high skills in math, organization, and problem-solving. Civil engineering is expected to increase due to aging infrastructure.

#34. Financial analysts

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 10.87%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 296,100
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +32,200
- 2018 median annual wage: $85,660
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Financial analysts provide insight to businesses and individuals making investment decisions and assess the performance of stocks and other types of investments. Necessary skills for a financial analyst include computer skills, math skills, and analytical skills. With growing employment rates, financial analysts are expected to be in high demand to support and provide knowledge for various industries and populations.

#33. Construction managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 11.09%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 403,800
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +44,800
- 2018 median annual wage: $93,370
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Construction managers plan, coordinate, and supervise construction projects in their entirety. Through on-the-job training and experience, managers learn management techniques and typically have strong customer-service, business, and leadership skills. Construction manager positions are projected to increase at a faster than average rate of 11% as construction is expected to increase over the next decade.

#32. Biochemists and biophysicists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 11.43%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 31,500
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +3,600
- 2018 median annual wage: $93,280
- Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes. To be able to do independent research and development, biochemists and biophysicists need a Ph.D. and need strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as perseverance. This occupation is expected to increase at a faster-than-average rate as the need to develop biological products that improve people's lives increases.

#31. Database administrators

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 11.46%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 119,500
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +13,700
- 2018 median annual wage: $90,070
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Database administrators store and organize data through the use of specialized software. Database administrators need strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as computer and information technology knowledge. As companies grow and expand, data also increases, thus increasing database administrator positions.

#30. Computer and information systems managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 12.02%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 367,600
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +44,200
- 2018 median annual wage: $142,530
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Computer and information systems managers, often simply called IT or information technology managers, plan, coordinate, and organize computer-related activities within an organization. Typically, to work in IT, employees must hold a bachelor's degree in computer or information science, while managers typically also have a graduate degree. As companies grow and expand their businesses to digital platforms, demand for IT managers will increase rapidly.

#29. Marine engineers and naval architects

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 12.20%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 8,200
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +1,000
- 2018 median annual wage: $92,560
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Marine engineers and naval architects design, build, and maintain aircraft carriers, submarines, sailboats, tankers, and many other forms of ships. Skills among these professionals include communication skills, math skills, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving skills, as well as ingenuity and creativity. Employment in this occupation is expected to grow as the need to design more ships and systems to transport energy products around the world increases.

#28. Elevator installers and repairers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 12.22%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 22,100
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +2,700
- 2018 median annual wage: $79,780
- Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent

Elevator installers and repairers install, fix, and maintain many types of lifts, including elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. Many states require licensure to hold this occupation, and most installers and repairers learn through an apprenticeship that requires physical strength and physical stamina. Increases in residential stores and commercial buildings also mean increases in installation and maintenance of escalators and other lifts, which in turn will spur the demand for workers.

#27. Atmospheric and space scientists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 12.50%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 10,400
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +1,300
- 2018 median annual wage: $94,110
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Atmospheric and space scientists study the weather and climate and examine how those conditions impact human activity and the earth as a whole. Analytical skills, communication, math, and critical-thinking skills are necessary for this occupation, and most scientists who work in research hold a master's degree or Ph.D. The private industry will most likely seek an increase in these employees.

#26. Radiation therapists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 12.57%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 19,100
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +2,400
- 2018 median annual wage: $82,330
- Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree

Radiation therapists treat cancer and other diseases by administering radiation treatments to patients. These workers typically hold an associate's degree. They must be licensed and pass a national certification exam. With the aging population, this profession is projected to grow at a very high rate.

#25. Medical scientists, except epidemiologists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 13.42%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 120,000
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +16,100
- 2018 median annual wage: $84,810
- Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Medical scientists conduct research focused on improving overall human health, which involves conducting clinical trials and other research. Communication skills, data analysis skills, and observation skills are some of the top skills among medical scientists, and they usually have a Ph.D. in biology or related life sciences. With the development of treatments and medicines that improve human health, this occupation is expected to grow at a faster-than-average rate.

 

#24. Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 13.81%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 166,600
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +23,000
- 2018 median annual wage: $79,010
- Typical entry-level education: Not applicable

Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists study cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behavior by observing how individuals relate to one another and their environment. Psychologists usually have strong interpersonal and observational skills as well as strong patience and integrity. For those psychologists who have a doctoral degree, this profession is expected to increase by nearly 14%.

#23. Geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 14.06%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 32,000
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +4,500
- 2018 median annual wage: $91,130
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Geoscientists study the physical aspects of Earth to learn about its past, present, and future. These specific types of scientists need to possess physical stamina, outdoor skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to be successful. With growing concerns surrounding climate change, the need for energy, and land and resource management, this occupation is projected to grow significantly.

#22. Astronomers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 14.07%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 19,900
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +2,800
- 2018 median annual wage: $119,580
- Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Astronomers study how various forms of matter and energy interact. Typically, they need a Ph.D. for jobs in research and academia, and they often possess a strong sense of curiosity and self-discipline, as well as analytical, math, and problem-solving skills. This occupation is expected to increase at a rate of 14%; however, government spending for astronomers is not projected to grow.

#21. Management analysts

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 14.29%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 806,400
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +115,200
- 2018 median annual wage: $83,610
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Management analysts implement ways to improve an organization's efficiency, focusing on reduced costs and increased revenues. Typically, this occupation recommends holding a Certified Management Consultant to improve job prospects. As businesses seek to improve efficiency and control costs, this occupation is expected to grow over 14%.

#20. Personal financial advisors

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 14.86%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 271,900
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +40,400
- 2018 median annual wage: $88,890
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Personal financial advisors offer advice on topics like investments and insurance to help individuals manage their finances. Strong analytical skills, communication skills, and math skills are necessary for this occupation. Demand for financial planners is projected to increase just below 15% as the population ages and life expectancies rise.

#19. Agricultural sciences teachers, postsecondary

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 15.05%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 1,314,400
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +197,800
- 2018 median annual wage: $78,470
- Typical entry-level education: Not applicable

Postsecondary agricultural sciences teachers instruct students in this field beyond the high school level and may conduct and publish research and scholarly articles. Teachers must have critical-thinking skills, communication skills, as well as a sense of resourcefulness. As enrollment at postsecondary institutions continues to rise, demand for teachers, mostly in part-time positions, is projected to increase rapidly.

#18. Petroleum engineers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 15.13%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 33,700
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +5,100
- 2018 median annual wage: $137,170
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Petroleum engineers design and create methods for extracting oil and gas from below the Earth's surface. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required, and many employers recommend participating in a cooperative-education program to gain job experience. This occupation is projected to grow at a much faster rate than average as higher oil prices will result in greater demand among oil and gas companies.

#17. Speech-language pathologists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 17.85%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 145,100
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +25,900
- 2018 median annual wage: $77,510
- Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Speech-language pathologists diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Speech therapists need at least a master's degree and many states require licensure as well. With a growing population that may be at risk for strokes and dementia, speech therapist positions are projected to grow at a much faster rate than average at roughly 18%.

#16. Optometrists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 17.91%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 40,200
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +7,200
- 2018 median annual wage: $111,790
- Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Optometrists examine the eyes and other parts of the visual system, as well as diagnose and treat visual problems, diseases, injuries, and other disorders. They must complete a Doctor of Optometry degree and obtain licensure to work in a specific state. With an aging population and visual problems frequently occurring later in life, this occupation is expected to grow roughly 18%, which is much faster than the average.

#15. Financial managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 18.71%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 580,400
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +108,600
- 2018 median annual wage: $127,990
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Financial managers are responsible for overseeing the financial health of an organization through financial reports, investment activities, and many other methods. To become a financial manager, candidates typically must have many years of work experience and be highly skilled in math, analytics, and communication. Over the next decade, it is expected that certain aspects crucial to a financial manager's role, such as risk management and cash management, will grow, thus increasing the demand for financial managers.

#14. Veterinarians

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 18.84%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 79,600
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +15,000
- 2018 median annual wage: $93,830
- Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Veterinarians are responsible for the care and health of animals. Vets must have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree as well as licensure. Job prospects for this occupation are high and are projected to remain at a higher-than-average level.

#13. Computer and information research scientists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 19.35%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 27,900
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +5,400
- 2018 median annual wage: $118,370
- Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Computer and information research scientists invent new approaches to computer technology, and they often do it by solving complex computing problems. Skills include logical thinking, math skills, analytical skills and critical-thinking skills, among others, and some industries require a master's degree in computer science or a related field. Many companies have reported having difficulty finding computer scientists; thus this profession is projected to grow 19% to meet demand.

#12. Medical and health services managers

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 20.47%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 352,200
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +72,100
- 2018 median annual wage: $99,730
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Medical and health services managers plan and coordinate medical and health services and direct changes that conform to changes in healthcare laws, regulations, and technology. Typically, healthcare administrators are detail oriented and have strong leadership, technical, and interpersonal skills. With the aging population, there should be a demand in healthcare services, and thus a demand in medical and health services managers.

#11. Audiologists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 20.95%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 14,800
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +3,100
- 2018 median annual wage: $75,920
- Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Audiologists diagnose and treat a patient's hearing, ear, and balance problems. They must have a doctoral degree and need to be licensed in their home state. As people get older, they may experience more hearing loss. As the current population continues to age, this profession is projected to increase at a rate of 20%.

#10. Actuaries

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 22.46%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 23,600
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +5,300
- 2018 median annual wage: $102,880
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Actuaries analyze the financial costs of risk and uncertainty of potential events using math and financial theory. They need a bachelor's degree and must pass a series of exams to become a certified professional. This occupation is projected to grow over 22% as the need to calculate the costs of new, emerging risks increases.

#9. Occupational therapists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 23.77%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 130,400
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +31,000
- 2018 median annual wage: $84,270
- Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Occupational therapists treat injured or disabled patients through the use of everyday activities and help patients develop and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. This occupation requires a master's degree in occupational therapy, and most states require licensure. Occupational therapist positions are projected to increase by roughly 24%.

#8. Software developers, applications

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 24.08%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 1,256,200
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +302,500
- 2018 median annual wage: $105,590
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Software developers design applications that allow people to perform specific tasks on a computer or similar device. Software developers need strong analytical skills, problem-solving skills, and lots of creativity. As the demand for computer software increases, the demand for software developers will also increase.

#7. Operations research analysts

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 27.46%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 114,000
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +31,300
- 2018 median annual wage: $83,390
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Operations research analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations make better decisions by investigating complex issues and identifying and solving problems. Skills required include math skills, analytical skills, writing skills, and critical-thinking skills, among others. This occupation is projected to grow at a much faster-than-average rate due to technological advances and companies' desire for efficiency.

#6. Physical therapists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 27.98%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 239,800
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +67,100
- 2018 median annual wage: $87,930
- Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Physical therapists help injured or ill people improve their movement and manage their pain, mostly during the rehabilitation and prevention stages. PTs need a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and most states require licensure. As the aging population grows, the demand for physical therapists is projected to increase rapidly.

#5. Information security analysts

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 28.50%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 100,000
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +28,500
- 2018 median annual wage: $98,350
- Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Information security analysts plan and orchestrate security measures to protect an organization's computer network and system. This occupation requires analytical skills, problem-solving skills, and a strong focus on detail and ingenuity. These analysts are projected to be in high demand as the need to prevent hackers from infiltrating companies' systems increases.

#4. Genetic counselors

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 29.03%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 3,100
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +900
- 2018 median annual wage: $80,370
- Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Genetic counselors assess risk for a variety of genetic disorders and birth defects and provide information support to individuals or families concerned with the risk of these inherited conditions. This occupation requires a master's degree and board certification. It also requires skills in communication, critical thinking, decision making, and compassion. As people become more aware of genetic disorders, this profession is expected to grow very rapidly.

#3. Nurse anesthetists

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 31.50%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 203,800
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +64,200
- 2018 median annual wage: $113,930
- Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Nurse anesthetists coordinate patient care and can provide primary or specialty healthcare. They need at least a master's degree, licensure, and must pass a national certification exam. Due to the aging population, this occupation is expected to grow at a rate of more than 30%.

#2. Mathematicians

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 33.50%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 40,300
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +13,500
- 2018 median annual wage: $88,190
- Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Mathematicians analyze data and use mathematical strategies to solve real-world problems in a variety of industries. This profession typically requires a master's degree and strong analytical, problem-solving, and math skills. It is projected to grow at a rate of more than 33% as businesses will need mathematicians to analyze large amounts of data.

#1. Physician assistants

- Projected job growth rate 2016-2026: 37.29%
- Number of jobs in 2016: 106,200
- Projected employment change 2016-2026: +39,600
- 2018 median annual wage: $108,610
- Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Physician assistants practice medicine alongside physicians, surgeons, and other healthcare workers. PAs need a master's degree and are required to be licensed by the state in which they practice. The demand for healthcare services continues to grow, and the demand for physician assistants is projected to increase as well.

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