Top Five Fastest-Growing Jobs You Can Get with an Undergraduate Degree

Joel Milani, Copywriter, YouShouldGoToSchool.com

Despite what they say in the news, there are still well-paying jobs out there. Lots of jobs that pay really well, in fact, if you know where to look and, here’s the kicker, have the right college degree.

But more education doesn’t mean access to better jobs in this case; according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), only two of the top ten fastest growing professions require a graduate degree (master’s or higher). That means that a two- or four-year degree can qualify you for many of the fastest growing careers in the country, at time when job security is a rare commodity.

Here are the top five fastest growing jobs you can get with an undergraduate degree:

  1. Biomedical Engineer: The BLS puts biomedical engineers at the top of this list of fast-growing careers, with an astounding expected growth of 72% in the next ten years. Biomedical engineers can expect to earn a median annual salary of $81,120 after completion of a bachelor’s degree in biology or other related field. Biomedical engineers combine their knowledge of biology, medicine and engineering to work with prosthetics, artificial organs, medical equipment and the like.
  2. Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst: Coming in at number two are the network systems and data communications analysts, with an expected ten year growth of 53%. This career is perfect for those interested in computers, networks and the increasingly central role technology plays in business. With a median salary of $73,830, network systems and data communications analysts are, and will continue to be, in high demand for their superior knowledge of computer systems and networks. As companies increase their use of network technology, these professionals will use their expertise to facilitate the implementation and maintenance of those networks.
  3. Financial Examiners: At a solid number three on this list, and overall (BLS), financial examiners should see a 41% increase in number of positions over the next ten years. Taking in a median salary of $78,180, financial examiners should earn a bachelor’s degree in finance, business, economics or accounting to qualify for this quickly growing field. This career is perfect for detail-oriented people with an interest in business and finance.
  4. Skin Care Specialist: Skipping numbers four and five on the BLS fastest growing careers list—they require graduate degrees, and have thus been excluded (for the full list click the link at the bottom of the page)—we’ve landed on skin care specialists. This career requires a certification rather than a formal degree, and has a median expected salary of $32,040. Skin care specialists provide treatments that promote healthy skin, and enhance appearance.
  5. Biochemist/Biophysicist: The last career on our list is expected to see a jobs increase of 37% over ten years, and comes with an expected median salary of $81,120. Biochemists and biophysicists will work within the medical and pharmaceutical industries conducting research and developing products that contribute to health and well-being.


For additional information, and a list of more fast-growing careers, visit The Bureau of Labor Statistics and the infographic that inspired this article.