It can be tough to find a job these days. With the economy still in recovery mode, many people struggle to find work that will pay the bills. If you’re lucky enough to have a job, you may be looking for ways to increase your income. One option that can help you do just that is to pursue a certificate program. University Certificate programs offer skills and training that can help you get ahead in your career. And, best of all, many of them pay well.
Various cheap certificate programs can help you make more money. For example, if you’re interested in business, you might consider pursuing a certificate in accounting or marketing. The certificate program is much less expensive. Programs can teach you the skills you need to succeed in the business world. Or, if you’re interested in technology, you might consider getting a certificate in information technology or computer programming.
Here Are Certificate Programs That Pay Well
10. Optician
The typical time it takes to earn a certificate: is dependent on the student.
The median salary of the job: is $37,010
When it comes to finding a fulfilling and lucrative career, many people overlook the optician field. However, this profession can offer both of those things and more. Many certificate programs pay well for opticians, so this could be an excellent option for you if you are looking for a new career path.
One of the best things about being an optician is that you can find work almost anywhere. There are many hospitals, clinics, and private practices that need qualified professionals in this field. In addition, the job outlook for opticians is good, which means you will likely be able to find a job fairly quickly. Another great thing about being an optician is earning a good salary.
9. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse
The typical time it takes to earn a certificate: is one year
The median salary of the job: is $46,240
There are many certificate programs available for those who want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). These programs typically last around one year and lead to an associate’s degree.
After completing one of these programs, you will be able to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Nurses (NCLEX-PN) or the National Council Licensure Examination for Nurses (NCLEX-LVN), depending on your state.
The good news is that many certificate programs pay well. The bad news is that many certificate programs pay well. So, how do you know which program is right for you? One way to decide is to look at the median annual salary for LPNs and LVNs in your state.
8. Ophthalmic Medical Technician
The typical time it takes to earn the certificate: dependent on the student
The median salary of the job: is $36,530
If you’re looking for a challenging and lucrative career, becoming an ophthalmic medical technician may be a great option. Ophthalmic medical technicians help treat and manage eye conditions, and many certificate programs that train these professionals offer high pay rates. In addition to providing a competitive salary, ophthalmic medical technicians also enjoy good job security; the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that this field will grow by 28 percent from 2016 to 2026.
7. Phlebotomist
The typical time it takes to earn the certificate: is generally four to eight months.
The median salary of the job: is $34,480
Phlebotomists are responsible for drawing blood from patients for tests, donations, or treatments. They typically work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, and blood banks.
Many certificate programs can prepare you to become a phlebotomist. These programs typically last six to twelve months and include classroom instruction and hands-on training.
You can expect to learn about the anatomy of the circulatory system, patient care and safety procedures, and how to draw blood properly. Phlebotomy is a growing field, and there are many opportunities for advancement. For example, some phlebotomists may eventually become supervisors or managers.
6. Paralegal
The typical time it takes to earn a certificate: varies; from four months to two years.
The median salary of the job: is $50,940
Many different certificate programs in the United States pay well. The paralegal certificate program is one of those programs. This program can be completed in as little as 12 months, and it provides students with the skills they need to work as paralegals. In addition to earning a good salary, paralegals also have the opportunity to move up the career ladder. Some of the top employers for paralegals include law firms, corporations, and government agencies.
5. Solar Photovoltaic Installer
The typical time it takes to earn the certificate: is a few months.
The median salary of the job: is $42,680
Many certificate programs offer a great return on investment. The solar photovoltaic installer is one of those programs. It is a six-month program that offers hands-on training in installing solar panels. In addition, students are prepared to take the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification exam upon completion.
The average salary for a solar photovoltaic installer is $39,000. But with experience and additional certifications, that number can go up significantly. That’s why it’s essential to choose a program that offers quality instruction and prepares students for industry certification exams. The solar photovoltaic installer is a great career choice for someone who wants to work in the renewable energy field. The job outlook is good, and the pay is excellent.
4. Landscaper and Groundskeeper
The typical time it takes to earn the certificate: is dependent on the student.
The median salary of the job: is $29,000
Landscaping and groundskeeping are essential parts of maintaining a property. They can also be very lucrative careers. Those interested in entering these fields can do so through certificate programs offered by many colleges and universities.
These programs offer students the opportunity to learn about the many aspects of landscaping and groundskeeping. In addition, they provide students with the skills necessary to succeed in these industries.
Graduates of these programs often find employment in various settings, including commercial businesses, government organizations, and schools. As a result, the salaries for those working in these fields vary depending on their level of experience and the type of job.
However, most people who work in landscaping and groundskeeping earn a good wage and have opportunities for advancement.
3. Medical Records Technician
The typical time it takes to earn the certificate: is one year
The median salary of the job: is $40,350
Many community colleges offer medical records technician certificates, which means you’d have a career in which you’re organizing medical records, including taking the doctor’s notes and putting them into the patient’s medical record.
A place where you can get the training you need for this career is Johnston Community College in Smithfield, North Carolina, which offers a medical records technician certificate with classes such as “Medical-Legal Issues,” “Medical Terminology I,” and “Records Management.” It’s a nine-credit course taken over two semesters.
2. Medical Assistant
The typical time it takes to earn the certificate: is one year
The median salary of the job: is $33,610
Suppose you’re interested in being a medical assistant and performing administrative, clinical and management roles in health care organizations. In that case, there are a lot of certification programs that you might want to explore.
For instance, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College offer the Cincinnati State Medical Assistant Certificate program. Medical assistant students complete supervised clinical practice, including 160 hours of unpaid practicum experience. After that, you take an exam to become a certified medical assistant.
1. Web Developer
The typical time it takes to earn the certificate: is one year
The median salary of the job: is $69,430
The web developer field is growing rapidly, and there are plenty of certificate programs that can help you get started in this exciting career. But which program is the best for you?
One option is to look for a program that offers a well-paying job after graduation. For example, the Fullstack Academy Web Development Certificate Program pays an average salary of $75,000 per year.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider General Assembly’s Web Developer Certificate Program. This program is only $1,750, and most graduates find work within six months.
No matter which program you choose, do your research and ask lots of questions. The web developer field is full of exciting opportunities, and with the proper training, you can start your career on the right foot.