Unless you have been on a remote island in the Pacific for the last few years, you probably know that we are in the middle of a recession. In many states the unemployment rate has risen above ten percent, which means that more than one in every ten people does not have a job. However, there are several occupations that are still growing, despite the economic downturn. So how do you make sure that you get in on these secure careers? Education! Here is a list of five fast growing careers taken from the Department of Labor’s website and what type of education you need for each of them.

1. Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts: This career is expected to grow over 53 percent in the coming years; this means it is the fastest growing occupation in the U.S. And they make good money too – an average of $64,600 annually. These professionals commonly work on a contract basis setting up computer systems for businesses. In order to break into this career, you should get a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information sciences or management information systems (MIS).
2. Computer Software Engineers:  At a growth rate of over 44 percent, this is a great occupation to pursue. These individuals are responsible for developing new applications, including those used on the internet. They also make over $85,000 a year. Sounds good, doesn’t it? If so, look into earning a degree in computer science or software engineering.
3. Personal Financial Advisors: These professionals advise individuals and businesses in making sound investment decisions, a job which is expected to grow 41 percent in the next few years. They have an average annual salary of over $66,000.  Although education is not required for licensure, employers and clients often look for personal financial advisors to have a bachelor’s degree in finance, business, economics or accounting.
4. Medical Assistants: Health careers are often safe bets in recessions and at a growth rate of over 35 percent, a medical assisting career definitely meets that definition. Unlike the occupations above, this career requires minimum education with most employers hiring those with an associate’s degree or who have gone through a medical assisting vocational program. If you enter this field, expect to earn around $30,000 a year.
5. Substance Abuse Counselors: With all the news and TV shows about rehab, you probably could have guessed this was on the list. In order to become one of these professionals who help people live lives beyond addiction, you must earn at least a bachelor’s degree in counseling. But once you get the degree you will probably find a job fast since this job is projected to grow by more than 34 percent. You will also earn a decent annual salary – about $40,000 on average.