10 Best Certification Programs for Careers That Pay Well for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Best Certification Programs for Careers That Pay Well for 2025

Here are 10 of the fastest certification programs for high-paying careers. These programs typically take less than a year to complete and can lead to well-paying jobs in growing industries:

1. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Median Salary: $36,000–$50,000 per year

EMTs provide emergency medical care and transportation to patients in critical situations. EMT certification is a gateway into healthcare with potential for career advancement into paramedic roles, which pay more.

2. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

Median Salary: $37,000–$49,000 per year

Phlebotomists are responsible for drawing blood from patients for tests, transfusions, or donations. The program is short, and the role is in high demand in hospitals, clinics, and labs.

3. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Median Salary: $30,000–$40,000 per year

CNAs provide basic care to patients and assist with daily activities in healthcare facilities. This certification is often a stepping stone for further nursing education and higher-paying healthcare roles.

4. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Median Salary: $50,000–$70,000 per year

Truck drivers transport goods across local, regional, or long-distance routes. The demand for CDL holders is high, particularly for long-haul truckers, and some positions offer bonuses and overtime pay.

5. HVAC Technician Certification

Median Salary: $48,000–$65,000 per year

HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) technicians install and repair systems that regulate temperature and air quality in buildings. With high demand for skilled workers in both residential and commercial sectors, certified HVAC technicians can earn competitive wages.

6. Dental Assistant Certification

Median Salary: $38,000–$50,000 per year

Dental assistants support dentists by preparing patients for procedures, sterilizing instruments, and managing office tasks. The job offers stable income and potential for growth into higher-paying roles in dental hygiene.

7. IT Support Specialist

Median Salary: $50,000–$60,000 per year

This certification provides the foundation for troubleshooting and managing IT systems. IT support specialists are in demand in almost every industry, and this entry-level role offers growth potential into higher-paying IT positions.

8. Certified Medical Coder (CPC)

Median Salary: $50,000–$65,000 per year

Medical coders translate patient information into standardized codes used for billing and insurance purposes. Medical coders are in high demand as the healthcare system grows more complex, offering stable job prospects and opportunities for remote work.

9. Landscaper and Groundskeeper Certification

Median Salary: $35,000–$50,000 per year

Landscapers and groundskeepers design, install, and maintain outdoor spaces for residential, commercial, and public properties. Certification programs can enhance skills in landscape design, irrigation, and horticulture, increasing employability and pay. Those certified often find work in landscape management or own their own landscaping businesses.

10. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

Median Salary: $50,000–$65,000 per year

LPNs/LVNs provide basic medical care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. The role is in high demand across hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, offering stable job prospects and good wages. It’s also a potential stepping stone to further nursing education, which can lead to higher-paying positions such as RN or nurse practitioner.

Can certifications really lead to high salaries?

Yes, certifications can indeed lead to high salaries, especially in industries where specialized skills are in demand. Compared with a college degree, certifications often validate expertise in a specific area. It makes candidates more attractive to employers, particularly in fields like IT, healthcare, and finance. Many certification programs that pay well require less time to complete than traditional degrees, allowing individuals to enter high-paying jobs more quickly.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 25% of IT workers in the U. S. do not hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Certifications often focus on highly sought-after skills, such as cloud computing, project management, or cybersecurity, which command higher salaries due to skill shortages.

Certified professionals often have more opportunities for promotions and salary increases because they can demonstrate mastery in their area of work. Specialized certifications in fields like tech, healthcare, or finance often come with premium pay because they address niche roles that are critical to an organization's success.

What industries offer the highest-paying jobs with certification programs?

Several industries offer high-paying jobs that can be accessed through certification programs. 

• Information Technology (IT): The tech industry has a strong demand for skilled professionals, especially in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and software development. IT certifications, which are among the cyber security courses online, validate critical skills that employers are willing to pay a premium for.
• Healthcare: Healthcare certifications provide a fast track to high-demand, well-paying jobs. Specialized roles like nurse anesthetists and medical technologists can earn significantly more than general healthcare workers due to their technical expertise. Certifications are also considered good preparatory courses for MA to LPN bridge program online.
• Finance and Accounting: Certifications in finance and accounting provide access to high-salary positions in investment banking, financial planning, and auditing. These credentials are often required for promotions and leadership roles in the financial sector.
• Cybersecurity: With the growing need to protect digital infrastructure, cybersecurity professionals are in high demand. Certifications in this field often lead to jobs that offer six-figure salaries due to the critical nature of their work.
• Project Management: Project management skills are essential for many industries, including construction, IT, and healthcare. Certified project managers are highly valued for their ability to deliver complex projects on time and within budget, and they often command high salaries.
• Trades and Skilled Labor: Skilled trades often require certifications, and professionals in fields like electrical work, plumbing, and HVAC can earn significant salaries due to the demand for their expertise and the necessity of their services.
• Energy and Utilities: As energy demands grow and shift toward renewable sources, certifications in energy management, nuclear power, and wind energy can lead to high-paying positions in this expanding industry.

Are certifications better than degrees for high-paying careers?

Whether certifications are better than degrees for high-paying careers depends on the industry, career goals, and individual circumstances.

Generally, certifications take less time and cost significantly less than earning a degree. Some certifications can be completed in a matter of months, while degrees typically require years of study and can be expensive. While degrees are more expensive and time-consuming, they offer a broader education and may be necessary for long-term career advancement in certain fields, such as healthcare or law.

In fields like IT, cybersecurity, project management, and skilled trades, certifications are often sufficient to access high-paying jobs. Many employers prioritize practical skills validated by certifications over formal education. In a CompTIA survey of HR leaders, 85% support eliminating or relaxing degree requirements in hiring.

However, for professions in medicine, law, finance, and engineering, a degree is either required or highly preferred. These fields typically offer the highest long-term earning potential but require formal education followed by certifications.

Certifications are better for quick entry into high-paying jobs in industries like IT, cybersecurity, project management, and skilled trades. They provide affordable, flexible options with high earning potential. Degrees are often better for long-term career growth and leadership opportunities in fields like healthcare, law, finance, and engineering, where they are typically required for higher positions.

Can you complete a high-paying certification in less than a year?

Yes, many certification programs that pay well can be completed in less than a year, particularly in tech, healthcare, project management, and skilled trades. These certifications provide a fast and cost-effective pathway to well-paying roles in industries that are growing and in need of qualified professionals.

These sample certifications that pay well are designed to quickly equip you with the skills needed to enter lucrative fields:

Can you get a high-paying job with an online certification?

You can definitely get a high-paying job with an online certification. Many industries, especially those in technology, healthcare, and business, recognize and value online certifications as proof of specialized skills and expertise. As online education continues to evolve, employers increasingly accept certifications from reputable online platforms, provided they align with the demands of the role. 

The IT industry is constantly evolving, and certifications often validate critical technical skills faster than traditional degrees. Online certifications from platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Cisco are widely respected and can lead to salaries ranging from $80,000 to $150,000.

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing industries, and the demand for professionals is outpacing supply. Here, certification programs that pay well include CISSP and CEH, which can lead to six-figure salaries because they validate your ability to protect critical systems.

Project managers are needed in nearly every industry. PMP and other project management certifications can lead to roles with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $130,000, even if obtained through online learning platforms.

While some healthcare roles require degrees, many entry-level healthcare positions can be accessed via online certification programs, such as the affordable medical billing and coding online schools. Certified medical coders can earn $50,000 to $70,000 annually, and demand for healthcare support roles continues to rise.

As more companies migrate to the cloud, professionals with cloud computing certifications are in high demand. Certifications from top providers like AWS, Google, or Microsoft, many of which can be earned online, open doors to roles with six-figure salaries. If you’re interested in sports management, you could also explore the cheapest online master's degree in sports management, which offers a cost-effective way to enter a growing and lucrative industry.

How long does it take to get a certification for high-paying careers?

In affordable online colleges, certifications for high-paying careers can typically be completed in 3 to 12 months, depending on the industry and the level of expertise required. Tech, healthcare, project management, and cloud computing certifications often take less time, making them attractive options for those looking to quickly boost their career prospects. More complex certifications in fields like finance or data science may take closer to a year or longer but offer substantial long-term earning potential.

• Digital Marketing Certifications: These certifications can be completed in two to six months, making them ideal for individuals looking to break into the field or advance their career in a short time.
• Finance Certifications: Finance certifications take longer to complete due to their depth and rigor, but entry-level certifications like FMVA can be finished in under a year. or those looking to advance their education further, exploring the best online MBA programs under 30k could provide a cost-effective way to deepen business and financial knowledge while keeping tuition affordable.
• Skilled Trades Certifications: These types of certifications often include both online and hands-on training. Many can be completed within a year, but apprenticeships or on-the-job training may extend the timeline.
• Data Science Certifications: Certifications on data science usually take less than a year and provide a pathway to high-paying roles in analytics and data-driven industries.
• Real Estate Licensing: Certifications in real estate that lead to licensing can be completed quickly, with certification programs that allow you to become an agent in a matter of months.

If you’re considering a career in game development, there are certification programs that can help you develop the skills needed to enter the industry in a relatively short amount of time, with many programs taking under a year to complete.

Are there any scholarships or financial aid options available for certification programs?

Yes, there are several scholarships and financial aid options available for certification programs. While certification programs may not always have the same extensive financial aid options as degree programs, there are numerous ways to reduce costs or receive funding for these courses. 

Many private organizations and foundations offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing certifications in high-demand fields such as technology, healthcare, and skilled trades. Organizations like The Mike Rowe Works Foundation offer scholarships for trade certifications in fields like welding, HVAC, and electrical work.

Coursera, a popular platform for online certification courses, offers financial aid to students who cannot afford to pay for their courses. Google offers scholarships for its Google Career Certificates in fields like IT support, project management, and data analytics. 

Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees seeking to earn certifications relevant to their current roles or future career development. Companies in sectors like IT, healthcare, and finance often cover the costs of certifications like AWS, PMP (Project Management Professional), and healthcare-related certifications.

In the U.S., the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) provides funding for job training and certification programs for individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or displaced from their jobs. Many state and local governments partner with community colleges and other institutions to offer free or reduced-cost certification programs in fields like healthcare, IT, and skilled trades.

In some cases, Pell Grants may be used for career training programs, including certifications, if the program is offered by an accredited institution and meets certain duration requirements. Additionally, if you’re interested in a career in design, there are scholarships available for UX design degree online programs, which could help cover tuition costs while you gain the skills needed for the field.

Can high-paying certifications lead to accelerated bachelor's degrees?

While certifications provide a fast and cost-effective route to high-paying jobs, many professionals wonder if they can leverage these credentials to further their education, such as pursuing accelerated bachelor’s degrees. The answer is yes. Certifications often count as transferable credits or fulfill prerequisite requirements, enabling professionals to fast-track their bachelor's education.

For instance, a professional holding certifications in IT or healthcare may be eligible to transfer credits into programs designed to expedite degree completion. With options like 2-year accelerated bachelor degrees, you can achieve a formal credential that opens doors to leadership roles and long-term career growth. These programs typically combine prior learning and the skills gained through certifications with an industry-focused curriculum to reduce time spent in school. They also serve as a bridge for professionals aiming to diversify their knowledge base or transition into industry management positions.

Given the increasing demand for skilled professionals with both certification-based expertise and advanced education, this pathway has become a strategic choice. By aligning short-term gains with long-term career goals, individuals can maximize their earning potential while keeping educational costs low.

What certification programs can provide a quick and lucrative career path?

Many individuals are looking for certification programs that can lead to high-paying jobs in a short amount of time. 6-month certificate programs that pay well are a great option for those who want to quickly gain the skills and knowledge needed to enter a lucrative field. These programs are often designed to provide specialized training in areas such as technology, healthcare, and skilled trades, and can be completed in just a few months. By choosing a certification program that is in high demand and can be completed quickly, individuals can set themselves up for success and increase their earning potential in a short amount of time.

Can certification programs help pave the way for doctoral studies?

For professionals aiming to blend practical expertise with academic research, certifications can enhance your application for doctoral programs by demonstrating specialized skills and a commitment to ongoing learning. Some institutions may acknowledge relevant certifications as evidence of industry proficiency and even consider them for credit transfer or as part of the admissions criteria. It is crucial for candidates to verify individual program requirements and understand that policies on recognizing non-traditional qualifications vary. For additional insights into streamlined doctoral pathways, consult the easiest PhD.

Is investing in certifications a smart financial decision?

When considering certification programs, a careful analysis of the return on investment (ROI) is essential. Evaluate both the direct costs—such as tuition, training fees, and study materials—and indirect costs like time away from work. Compare these against the expected salary boost and career advancement opportunities that certification can yield. Unlike traditional degree programs, many certifications require a shorter time commitment and lower financial investment, often resulting in a quicker transition to high-paying roles. For professionals looking to further leverage their credentials, some opt to combine certifications with advanced academic qualifications, such as pursuing 1 year masters programs, to enhance their long-term career growth. Analyzing market data, employer expectations, and industry trends can support the decision, ensuring that your chosen path aligns with both your financial goals and professional aspirations.

How do I choose the right certification for my career?

Between 2020 and 2030, BLS projects that about 60% of new jobs in the economy will be in occupations that do not typically require an associate’s, bachelor’s, or graduate degree. Similar to identifying good majors, choosing the right certification for your career can be a pivotal decision that impacts your professional growth, earning potential, and job satisfaction. The process involves assessing your current skills, career goals, industry demands, and financial considerations.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right certification for your career:

Assess Your Career Goals

If your goal is to advance within a particular industry, look for certifications that are well-recognized within that field. For instance, if you're in IT, certifications like AWS Solutions Architect or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) may be highly valued.

Questions to Ask:

• What skills do I need to achieve my next career milestone?
• Does the certification align with my long-term professional goals?

Research Industry Demand

Research certifications that are highly sought-after by employers in your industry. This can be done through job listings, industry reports, or by networking with professionals in your field.

Questions to Ask:

• Which certifications are frequently mentioned in job postings for my desired role?
• How much of a salary boost can I expect with this certification?

Evaluate Your Current Skill Level

If you are early in your career, foundational certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Google Data Analytics may be a good starting point. For more experienced professionals, advanced certifications like CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or CISSP are better suited.

Questions to Ask:

• Am I ready for an advanced certification, or should I start with a foundational one?
• What new skills will I acquire from this certification?

Can you earn a master’s degree after completing a high-paying certification program?

After completing a high-paying certification, many individuals wonder whether it’s possible—or worthwhile—to pursue easy masters degrees. The short answer is yes, but whether it’s the right decision depends on your career goals and how you want to expand your qualifications.

• Build on Your Skills: While certifications typically provide specialized knowledge in specific fields, an easy master’s degree can broaden your expertise and allow you to take on higher-level positions. This is particularly useful for those in fields like project management, healthcare, or IT, where a combination of certifications and advanced degrees can make you stand out.
• Career Flexibility: Earning a certification can often lead to entry-level positions. However, a master’s degree can provide greater career flexibility, enabling you to move into more senior or specialized roles. For example, after completing certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or CompTIA A+, pursuing an easy master’s degree in management or cybersecurity can help you land managerial roles or consultative positions.
• Faster Career Advancement: Having both a certification and a master’s degree can accelerate your career. Certifications are great for landing a job quickly, but a master’s degree can open up opportunities for promotions and leadership roles faster, especially in industries like business or technology.

What emerging trends are shaping certification programs for high-paying careers?

Rapid digital transformation and evolving skill demands are driving innovative changes in certification programs. Industry stakeholders are increasingly integrating micro-credentialing, modular course structures, and hybrid learning models that combine practical training with theoretical knowledge. These trends provide professionals with agile pathways to bridge industry skill gaps and maintain competitive pay scales. Employers now value continuous upskilling and risk-taking in learning formats that align closely with modern job requirements, often recognizing certifications as key determinants for rapid career advancement. Additionally, evolving credentialing models are beginning to mirror the efficiencies of highest-paying online degrees, offering streamlined education that supports both immediate job placement and sustained long-term growth.

How can I ensure a cost-effective and quality certification program?

To achieve a balance between affordability and rigorous training, evaluate certification programs based on curriculum relevance, success rates, and transparent fee structures. Research independent reviews and industry rankings to assess program outcomes without compromising educational quality. Compare available financial aid options and explore financing strategies, such as employer tuition reimbursement or scholarships, to reduce your investment risk. For additional insights into cost-effective learning alternatives, consider reviewing the cheapest online colleges that accept FAFSA for further guidance.

What are the top industries hiring for certified professionals for 2025?

For 2025, several industries are aggressively hiring certified professionals, particularly those with specialized certifications that are in high demand. Here are some of the top industries offering excellent career opportunities for certified professionals:

• Information Technology (IT): With the growing reliance on technology, IT certifications such as CompTIA A+, CISSP, and AWS Certified Solutions Architect are highly valued, opening doors to lucrative positions in cybersecurity, network administration, and cloud computing.
• Healthcare: The healthcare industry continues to offer high-paying roles for certified professionals. Certifications in nursing, phlebotomy, medical billing, and health information technology (e.g., Certified Nursing Assistant or Certified Medical Coder) provide a direct path into stable, well-compensated jobs.
• Construction and Skilled Trades: Skilled trades such as electrical work, plumbing, and HVAC require specific certifications. These roles often lead to six-figure salaries, especially for experienced professionals with certifications from organizations like NCCER or EPA.
• Project Management: Across various sectors, certified project managers (such as those holding PMP certifications) are in high demand. Their skills in managing complex projects make them indispensable to industries like construction, IT, and manufacturing.
• Finance: The finance sector seeks certified professionals for roles such as financial analysts, accountants, and auditors. Certifications like CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CPA (Certified Public Accountant) continue to hold significant value for career growth in this field.

These industries not only offer high salaries but also present growth opportunities for certified professionals seeking rewarding careers. However, if you want to get a degree without the high costs, you can try learning about cheap accredited online colleges.

How do I verify the accreditation of a certification program?

Verify that the certification program is recognized by industry-endorsed accrediting bodies by checking official listings and cross-referencing with professional associations. Assess curriculum transparency, instructor credentials, and reported career outcomes to ensure the program meets established quality standards. Additionally, review employer feedback and industry benchmarks to confirm that the certification adds value to your long-term career strategy, such as qualifying for advanced academic pursuits like master degrees that pay well.

How do high-paying certifications influence long-term career advancement?

High-paying certifications can serve as strategic assets for professionals aiming to secure leadership roles and navigate evolving industry demands. They extend beyond immediate job placement by fostering continual skill development, which can accelerate promotions and broaden career trajectories. Many certification holders leverage their credentials to transition into specialized or managerial roles, benefiting from increased market visibility and professional networking. For professionals interested in combining practical expertise with advanced academic pursuits, options such as shortest masters programs online provide additional pathways to enhance long-term career value without extensive time commitments.

What factors should I consider when evaluating the ROI of a certification program?

When assessing the return on investment for a certification program, focus on both direct and indirect benefits. Analyze the total cost of training, including tuition, materials, and any potential lost income during study periods, against potential salary increases and accelerated career advancement. Consider the program’s recognition within your industry, the quality of instructional support, and its ability to open doors to roles with long-term growth. Comparing these factors with alternative education options—such as those offered by the most affordable online colleges for working adults—can provide additional context for cost-effectiveness. Evaluate third-party reviews, industry salary benchmarks, and alumni success rates to ensure that your decision aligns with both your immediate needs and long-term career goals.

How do certification programs offer ongoing career support?

Certification programs increasingly integrate post-completion services that extend value beyond the initial credential. Many provide structured career support, including dedicated mentorship, alumni networks, and periodic industry update sessions to keep professionals aligned with evolving market demands. These support mechanisms can facilitate skill refreshers and foster meaningful connections with peers and industry leaders, empowering graduates to navigate career transitions effectively. Moreover, some programs feature partnerships with higher education institutions, which might enable a seamless transfer of credits for those interested in accelerating further academic qualifications, such as What is the fastest and easiest bachelor's degree to get?

Can certifications and online degrees work synergistically?

Integrating targeted certification credentials with broader online degree programs can create a balanced and competitive professional profile. Certifications validate specialized, job-ready skills that meet immediate industry demands, while online degrees build on foundational knowledge and critical thinking. Together, these education paths broaden expertise and demonstrate a commitment to continual learning, enhancing both short-term employability and long-term career resilience. For further insights into complementary educational strategies, explore our article What is the easiest online degree to get?

Here’s what certification program graduates have to say about their certification programs

After completing the Google IT Support Professional Certificate, I landed a tech job making double what I earned in retail. The hands-on training was practical, and I felt confident stepping into a new role right away. It’s amazing how much my life has changed with just a few months of dedication. -Jessica

Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) opened up so many doors for me, and the job stability has been a blessing. I went from working paycheck to paycheck to having a rewarding career where I feel valued and financially secure. The certification program was fast, but the impact on my life has been long-lasting. -Mike

The HVAC technician certification was a game-changer. It took only six months, and now I’m earning a great salary with the freedom to work for myself. I never imagined that a simple certification could give me so much control over my future. -Carlos

Key Findings

• Certifications for high-paying careers can typically be completed in 3 to 12 months, depending on the industry and the level of expertise required.
• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 25% of IT workers in the United States do not hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
• In a CompTIA survey of HR leaders, 85% support eliminating or relaxing degree requirements in hiring
• In service industries such as healthcare, education and government services, 62% of workers with no postsecondary education have a certification
• 25% of IT professionals in the U.S. have completed certification programs but do not hold a bachelor’s degree

Other Things You Should Know About Certification Programs for Careers That Pay Well

Can I get a certification without a degree?

Yes, you can definitely get a certification without a degree. Many certification programs are designed to provide specialized skills and knowledge for specific industries, and they do not require a college degree. 

You can absolutely pursue certifications and land high-paying jobs without a degree, particularly in industries like IT, healthcare, skilled trades, and business.  These programs are often ideal for individuals who want to advance in their careers, change fields, or gain expertise in high-demand areas without the time or financial commitment of earning a traditional degree. 

Certifications are a faster, cost-effective, and highly focused way to gain relevant skills, and they can significantly boost your career without the long-term investment of a degree. As industries evolve, many employers are placing more emphasis on practical skills and certifications over formal education, making this a viable path for career advancement.

What is the easiest certification to get that pay well?

The "easiest" certification to get that pays well can depend on your background, interests, and industry. However, certain certifications are known for being relatively quick and accessible while still leading to well-paying jobs. 

If you’re looking for a certification that’s easy to obtain but offers good pay, consider fields like healthcare (CNA, Phlebotomy), IT (Google IT Support, CompTIA A+), or business (Real Estate, Project Management). These certifications can be completed relatively quickly, often in less than a year, and provide pathways to well-paying jobs without requiring a degree.

What is the highest paying certification without a degree?

The highest-paying certification without a degree can vary based on the industry, job market demand, and geographic location. However, some certifications are known for leading to high-paying roles, even without the need for a formal college degree. 

While many certifications can lead to high-paying jobs, those in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and project management tend to offer the most lucrative salaries without requiring a degree. Certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, CISSP, and PMP are some of the highest-paying credentials in their respective fields, and they often provide pathways to six-figure salaries.

What are the best certification programs for career changers?

For career changers, the best certification programs offer flexibility, quick completion times, and high employment potential in growing industries. These programs are ideal for individuals looking to transition into new fields without pursuing a full degree. Certifications in IT, project management, healthcare, digital marketing, and cybersecurity are excellent options.

For instance, for individuals transitioning into IT with no prior experience, programs like Google IT Support, PMP, and Certified Ethical Hacker offer quick pathways to new careers, high job security, and competitive salaries. These certifications are flexible and widely recognized, making them perfect for anyone looking to pivot into a new, high-demand industry.

For those looking to enter healthcare quickly, the certified nursing assistant program only takes four to 12 weeks. CNAs are always in demand, and the training is relatively short, making it a fast path into healthcare. Many CNAs eventually pursue further education in nursing or other medical fields.

References:

• Carnevale, A. P., Cheah, B., & Van Der Werf, M. (2022). Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. The college payoff: Sub-baccalaureate education and economic opportunity.
• CompTIA. (n.d.). Get into IT without a degree.
• Intelligent.com. (2023). Nearly half of companies plan to eliminate bachelor’s degree requirements in 2024.
• Lumina Foundation. (2020). Professional certifications offer a pathway to good jobs.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). Occupations that don’t require a degree. Career Outlook.