2010 represents an important year. For one, every 10 years, the Census Bureau takes a snapshot of our population, determining how many people reside within the nation's borders, who they are, and where they live. The results help determine representation in government, as well as how federal funds are spent in communities on things like roads, parks, housing, schools, and public safety. Ultimately this plays a role in determining future jobs.
For another, it is a good time to look at some of the top ten career trends moving forward in the hopes that it will inspire many to return to school, learn a new skill or trade and find a career that offers employment opportunities, strong salaries and/or future job stability. Some require a college degree while others may require only a vocational/technical degree or no degree at all.
2009 will be remembered for many things but for college graduates, it will be most remembered for being one of the toughest job markets in many years. Here we look at the top 10 types of jobs that offered the most employment opportunities for new college graduates and their starting salaries.
| Job Function | Starting Salary Offer | |
| Teaching | $35,496 | |
| Management Trainee | $41,353 | |
| Financial/Treasury Analysis | $52,043 | |
| Consulting | $56,472 | |
| Sales | $41,577 | |
| Accounting (Public) | $49,437 | |
| Accounting (Private) | $45,859 | |
| Software Design & Development | $63,798 | |
| Registered Nursing | $45,229 | |
| Project Engineering | $58,570 |
Source: Fall 2009 Salary Survey, National Association of Colleges and Employers. Data represent job functions for which the most data were reported; all data are for bachelor's degree candidates.
For those who graduated from college in 2009, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average salary offered to a new graduate was just under $49,000. Those planning on graduating in 2010 may want to take a look at the top 10 jobs with the highest starting salaries right out of school.
While not surprising, for those looking for a brand new career path, it may best be wise to pick a career in healthcare and computers as they represent all of the fastest growing occupations according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
If you need a reason to return to school or start school in 2010, just look to this site or any of the government websites and you will certainly see that there are so many opportunities for those who learn a trade, advance their skill set or change careers. With all the information about jobs and careers out there, make 2010 your year to start down the path toward a better future.