Latest Lists

What is a great 2 yr (associate degree) that makes good money, is in need, and isnt too physically demanding?

I want to own my own business after all, but can I do that with an associate degree? If so, my colleges nearby dont offer an associate in business (would it be best to get business management...or is there some kind of general business degree?) . I would have to do classes online and someone said that all (esp university of "state") colleges offer online courses...is that true? If this isnt a good degree, what about RN or dental hygiene or something like that? I seen a lot of degree programs where you have to do LPN for 1 1/2 year...then RN for another year or so.... and 1 1/2 years for dental hygienist. Are all colleges like that?? What are the top jobs that make good money, require 2 yrs or less of college, and are most needed/or most projected to grow?

Public Comments

1. That's a lot of questions... I will attempt to answer one by one. 1. You don't need any degree to own your own business. However, the more educated you are the better you will be able to run your business. 2. Business management or general business degrees would be fine. It all depends on what your local colleges offer. 3. I don't think all colleges offer online classes, but many do. However, there isn't going to be as much of a selection. Also, some online classes from legit public schools still require group projects or a few in-class meetings. One of my local colleges (Chabot College in Hayward CA) offers a completely online business certificate. You will have to do your research to see what local college has the best online only degrees. 4. Every RN program is different. The thing they have in common is that they are difficult to get into. You will have to complete some prerequisites first, ranging from basic science like Anatomy and Chemistry, to certificates like CNA and LVN. The whole process takes several years no matter where you go, because they have to have waitlists or lottery programs to get into the RN program. 5. An RN will make you a lot of money, and there are dire nursing shortages due to the aging baby boomer population. However, it will almost certainly take more than 2 years. Ultimately, you should major in something you actually are interested in, because you will enjoy your coursework more and enjoy your future career.
2. Dental Hygiene school (at Chabot) required 4 years total for me. 2 yrs pre-req's and 2 yrs in the program. After you get your license you can start working right away and make a decent wage. One of the downsides of hygiene is that it's sort of demanding physically. It depends on each person. If you have good body control and have good ergonomics then it's not so stressful physically. I'm not a nurse but I've heard about it. After about 3 to 4 years they make more than hygienists. It's different though. They have to sometimes work graveyard shifts and do unpleasant work like cleaning bedpans and patients. Also, they have to listen to the families and try to accomodate their wishes for the patient. Sometimes it can be difficult to work with them. With hygiene it's pretty much one on one most of the time. You work bankers hours, Mon thru Fri anywhere between 8am and 6pm for the most part. Few dentists work Sat or Sun.