College degrees can be expensive. The average four-year graduate of a four-year program owes $30,000 in student loans. It takes many years to obtain one.
Some people don’t have the means to go to university. Not all jobs require a degree.
People are increasingly turning to training programs and certifications that can be completed in a matter of weeks or months. This could be the perfect job for you if you are looking for a fast and reliable job.
You’re here if you are looking to make a career change but don’t have the budget for a degree. We will be discussing some certifications that you can obtain in a matter of weeks or months to get well-paying jobs.
Degrees vs. Certifications
It is normal to wonder “but if it’s possible to get a high-paying position with a certification, then why bother with a degree?” This is a valid question. A cert will save you time and money.
However, there are vast differences between the 2.
A degree can be a great starting point for your career. You can get into the job market by obtaining a degree.
Because they are general skills, degrees open doors that certifications cannot. This is not necessarily a bad thing. It’s the reason degrees are so valuable.
A degree gives you an in-depth understanding of all aspects of your field. You will have more options in terms of the jobs you can apply for and accept, as well as greater prospects for switching careers because you will have transferable skills.
Certifications teach skills that aren’t necessarily relevant to other jobs. Certifications are not as flexible as degrees.
Don’t let this stop you from taking classes in your spare time to get a degree if you are interested in advancing your career. Many people use this method to get promoted in their jobs, but lack the time or desire to obtain a new certification.
Which Certifications are Right for You?
It is important to understand your needs before you can decide which certification is right for you. What do you want from your career? Are you looking for flexibility and freedom in your work life so you can spend more quality time with your family? Are you looking for a job that is flexible and easy to do anywhere, with little or no training?
It is important to consider the career opportunities that certifications will offer and how easy it will be to find them. Although there is overlap in job roles, each certification will only be relevant to those who have the same skills or knowledge as you.
7 Quick Certificates for Jobs That Pay Well
All certifications on this list can be obtained in six months. This is what we mean by “quick”. They all pay fairly well, with most positions paying between $40,000 to $110,000 per year.
Because of the speed at which certifications can be obtained, they are rapidly becoming the standard in the job market. Many people feel that certifications make their resume stand out because it shows dedication to their career.
Let’s look at some quick certifications that you can get. We will also show you how to obtain them.
1. Real Estate Sales Agent & Broker
Real estate brokers help people find their dream homes by helping them sell and purchase properties. To close a property sale or purchase, they negotiate the price with clients and sign contracts.
You must take real estate principles courses and pass an exam administered by your state’s governing body. This information can be found on their website.
Online courses can be taken to prepare for the exam, or you can complete the course through a school. The training will take you through 120 hours and the final exam is $125. It usually takes between 4-5 months to obtain a license as a real estate agent. This is sufficient time to get started.
After 1 to 3 years of work, you will be eligible for a broker’s license (varies depending on the state).
Real estate brokers need to have worked as licensed real estate agents to obtain a broker’s license in most states. While requirements vary from one state to the next, most states require at least 1 to 3 years of experience.
These occupations had a median salary of $51.220 in 2020. This is a field where incomes can be very flexible. You can easily reach the six-figure income bracket if you work hard and continue to improve.
2. Phlebotomist
The unsung heroes of medicine are phlebotomists. They collect blood and do other laboratory tests to keep doctors updated about the health of their patients.
You will need to complete an accredited training program at a technical or community college to become a phlebotomist. You will be able to perform basic medical procedures like drawing blood or performing lab tests. The certification exam costs $200 and varies from one state to the next.
These training courses usually last 90-120 hours and can be completed in six months with full-time study. These programs can be completed even if you don’t have a lot of time.
Most places will give you training once you have your phlebotomy license. Then, you can work for yourself.
In 2020, the median annual salary for a phlebotomist was $36.320. This is a profession that has seen rapid growth over the past decade and will continue to grow in 2030, as more people get their lab tests done and more clinics and companies need phlebotomists.
3. Solderer
Many people are unaware that there are many types of welding other than “metal-on-metal.” Soldering, which involves melting solder (a type of alloy) to join two items together.
It is best to complete an apprenticeship at the community college level and have some work experience. You can also get your GED. The test costs about $125 and you can then become a certified soldering instructor.
Depending on your level of interest, you will need to complete 50-150 hours of training. This training is usually found at local community colleges and job centers. These courses typically last for six months, and you will get work experience as well.
On-the-job training will be a big part of your job. Most employers will hire you, even if your skills are not the best.
The Bureau divides solderers into brazers, cutters, and welders. It is therefore difficult to estimate a salary. In 2020, the median salary for all of this group was $44.190. Salary.com lists $33.440 as the median annual salary. However, this can rise to $55.967 for more experienced workers.
It’s not hard to find something that takes only a few months to learn!
4. Installers and mechanics for air conditioning, and refrigeration
An HVAC technician is responsible for installing and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in commercial and residential buildings. They can also maintain the systems to ensure they run efficiently.
It is best to complete training at a community college. This usually takes six months. After that, you will need to pass a certification exam. The test costs around $125, but the cost varies from one state to another.
Depending on your level, you will need to complete 150-200 hours of training. This training is usually found at local community colleges or job centers.
An average HVAC company will provide a lot of training and support on the job. This is why there are very few turnover rates in this profession. In 2020, the median annual salary of HVAC technicians was $50.590.
Editor’s note: Depending on where you live, the certification process for this job can take up to two years. Before you commit, make sure to check the licensing regulations in your state and the schools.
5. Personal Trainer for Fitness
A fitness coach helps clients to get in shape by recommending diets and exercising. If you love helping others achieve their goals, whether they are weight loss or better cardio health, this is a rewarding job.
A fitness trainer can work in many places, such as health clubs and community centers, gyms (such as Gold’s Gym), college campuses, and even on college campuses. This is usually done during summer to help students get in shape before school starts or after.
Employers prefer to see some form of accreditation from an accredited program. It is usually around $500-1000. It will cost you approximately six months of full-time training, depending on which school it is.
An internship of 50 hours is required (most clubs and gyms offer this for free). Then, you will need to take a certification exam from an accredited program. This test can cost between $100-$500. In 2020, the median salary for a fitness trainer was $40.510.
Editor’s note: Some employers might prefer individuals with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a field related to fitness. You will be able to apply for jobs if you know areas like kinesiology or physical education. They are not necessary.
6. Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists assist clients with any technical problems they may have with their computers. This job is great for those who love technology and problem-solving. They don’t have to be available 24 hours a day.
What certifications are useful for computer support specialists? Two certifications are available to help you on your career path. The first is CompTIA A+, which shows you are proficient with Windows operating systems as well as basic hardware troubleshooting.
You can also train with Cisco, Microsoft, or other tech companies to become Certified Systems Engineers.
You will need to complete six months of training. Certification tests can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000, depending on the number of certifications you get.
In 2020, the median salary for this job was $55.510.
Warning! The more technical your career goals are, the better your education should be. A degree is still required for highly technical positions. For the most basic tasks, certifications will suffice.
7. Specialist in Medical Records and Health Information
The medical records and information specialist, also known as the medical coder, help others organize medical data. This job is ideal for those who love numbers and organizing things logically.
Which certifications are appropriate for this job? Three types of certifications can be used to code medical records and information specialists: the Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Associate(CCA), or the Registered Health Information Tech (RHIT).
This certification is slightly more difficult than the others on this list. It is recommended that you spend at least nine months to obtain one. However, 1 year is the most common. It’s still much faster than a degree.
In 2020, the median salary for medical coders stood at $45.240.
Faster Certificates
There are alternatives if you don’t have the time or money to spend the six to twelve months required to obtain the certifications. These certifications take less than a month. These jobs don’t pay as well or offer the same job security but they are still viable career options.
- Driver
It should take approximately 2 months to get your commercial driver’s license. If you don’t have the time, it can take up to 6 months. In 2020, the median salary for this job was $47.130.
Truck driving requires a lot of flexibility. It is difficult to build a family while working as a truck driver. You won’t have much time for your loved ones. This is why truck driving pays so well but not everyone wants to do it.
- Data Analytics
Data analysis is an enormous field. Udemy and Coursera offer many courses that are suitable for all levels of skill. What’s more, Google has partnered with Coursera to offer a course to help people enter the data analytics world.
This is the course. It takes 6 months to complete and includes Google’s name, which is undoubtedly better than other colleges. Google is a huge brand worldwide. It’s a trusted brand that employers know and trust since it’s most likely they use it every day.
Some employers won’t take this certificate seriously. This is just part of life. To find a job in this field, you’ll need to dig deeper.
- Construction Inspector
Construction inspectors are vital to the smooth running of construction companies. They inspect the site and supervise the work being done.
For those who want to get into this field, there are many certifications. The ICCSafe certificate takes approximately 7 weeks.
In 2020, the median annual salary was $62.860. These are quicker than previous ones. This is because most of the training takes place on the job.
Warning! You can get your certification in just 2 months and then start working. However, you will need to spend many months learning the ropes while you work. You may need multiple certifications. Last, the Bureau won’t advertise that you will earn as much in the first few years.
Conclusions
Many people want to learn new skills and find a job. They don’t have enough money to obtain a degree. This is where certifications come in.
You will be able to get a certificate that will make your employer more attractive if you can spare the 6 months it takes. These certifications are very affordable and can be obtained quickly, which will give you good job security.
Companies require job vacancies filled immediately. In 3+ years. These certifications are offered by accredited schools. These certifications are an easy way to get into your chosen field quickly.