In 2008, America was hit with a recession that has culminated in the toppling of several of the nation’s largest banking firms, due in no small part to bad mortgage loans, unemployment and other factors that have had an adverse affect on both the domestic and worldwide economy.  Students contemplating an educational tract would do well to be concerned for which fields may suffer the consequences in the immediate years after their graduation.  Of course, recessions are nothing new and have happened several times over the last 100 years, so considering an academic program that is less affected by economic conditions is always wise. 

Healthcare is a field that holds particular interest for many students because of the aging baby boomer population. It is estimated by the US Department of Labor that healthcare related titles in the job market will see major shortages over the next decade and beyond.  The opportunities for a healthcare professional will be plentiful regardless of the current economic situation. 

IT is another field that is unlikely to see higher unemployment rates or mass layoffs.  In fact, the online marketplace is growing at a rate that far exceeds the average for brick and mortar businesses.  This is great news for IT professionals whose skills are necessary for the implementation and maintenance of online entities. 

Education has always been a high priority in the US, and with a growing population, will prove to be one of the most recession proof fields of the next several decades.  Aside from teaching, there are numerous administrative positions within the educational field that provide high dollar salaries and exceptional working environments. 

Law enforcement is yet another career that is unaffected by the economy, and with a heightened need for security in a post 9/11 world, there are limitless opportunities in corrections, policing and parole.  An associate degree is usually more than sufficient for entering a law enforcement training program but some upper level positions require a bachelor degree. 

These are just a few of the options that students may want to consider in light of the current economic turmoil, although there are many additional career choices that are equally good.  Take time to consider what the economic situation will be like upon graduation and you’ll be far more likely to step into a growing job market and great opportunities.