Pursuing an advanced education can help you create a satisfying and stable career. However, there are so many options and fields to choose from that it can feel a little overwhelming to make a decision about what kind of job you’d like to pursue.
If you’ve been thinking about your next career move, then you’ve probably considered getting into the business or technology fields at least once. These industries have a lot of opportunity for growth, tend to offer excellent salaries, and are in high demand. It can be hard to find a career you enjoy that also offers you financial and job security, but it’s well worth the effort in the end.
The good news? There’s lots of information out there about what kinds of skills employers will be looking for in the next few years. Need some possible career ideas to consider? Here are the most in-demand jobs that will be hot in business and technology in 2019.
Data Scientist
If you know anything about trends in business and technology, then you know how important data is for modern decision-making and strategy. One of the most in-demand jobs of the 21st century is data science ‘professionals who set up models and algorithms so that data can be leveraged and analyzed for improved business success. It’s estimated there will be a need for around 700,000 data professionals by 2020.
Data science training programs are becoming more popular all the time. Most data scientists have a master’s degree or doctorate. Data scientists need to be trained in areas like computer science, programming, and statistics.
Business Analyst or Business Intelligence
For people who are interested in examining markets, advanced training in business intelligence (BI) is an excellent career choice. Roles in business analytics or business intelligence involve data and help to guide organizational strategy. A business analyst is best described as a strategist, helping businesses understand their strengths and weaknesses and develop new opportunities. They act as a liaison between departments, especially those involving IT and work to introduce much-needed change to organizations. Business intelligence involves understanding the market, audience, and competitors of an organization.
Becoming a business analyst takes some work, but these roles can be exciting, challenging, and well-paid. An undergraduate degree in business administration, finance, or accounting, plus programming knowledge will provide a foundation for a future career in business analytics. Then, work experience and a master’s degree in business analytics is typically necessary to build all the skills needed.
Computer Engineer
Jobs in the field of computer science continue to grow and stay in demand. Software engineers are still in high demand, but many people who are interested in computer science often don’t think about engineering the computer systems themselves. Computer engineers work to design new computer systems, hardware, and software in order to advance and keep up with the speed of technological innovation.
Because they work with both hardware and software, most computer engineers have training in electrical engineering and software engineering. Becoming a computer engineer starts with a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, software engineering, or computer science. Although a not required, both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree will help new computer engineers land jobs.
Cybersecurity
Because data breaches are so common, organizations of all types are finding out that the need to hire cybersecurity professionals to protect against attacks. Cybersecurity careers involve building secure networks to prevent cyberattacks.
Typically, although a bachelor’s degree and beyond is helpful, a combination of computer experience and certifications in cybersecurity is enough to get started in the field. It’s all about skill and ability, so even if you’re self-taught you may be able to enter the field if you have the right skills and connections.
Other Options
Even though these jobs pay well and are growing quickly, that doesn’t mean they’ll be right for everyone. It’s important for each person to find a career that matches their strengths and interests. Society needs people who can work with others and help solve societal problems, like social workers. With the opioid epidemic, poverty, and other issues affecting Americans from all different backgrounds, social work openings are expected to grow by 16 percent from 2016 to 2026.
When choosing a career, you need to balance a lot of factors. One of the most in-demand tech or business jobs of 2019 might be the perfect fit. But don’t choose a career just for the money or growth’s sake. Take the time to find something you’ll enjoy doing for years down the road.