Where will your career take you?
With so many options to choose from, finding the right career path can feel overwhelming – but you don’t have to navigate it alone. There’s real data to help point the way.
Each year, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks more than 830 occupations, from accountants to zoologists, sharing key info on salaries, skills, education, and growth. Most jobs are projected to grow about 4% by 2033, but some are accelerating much faster.
Here are seven high-growth careers you can start preparing for at Keuka College.
1. Nurse Practitioner
Median Salary: $129,000
Projected Growth Rate: 40%
What They Do: Nurse practitioners provide expert, compassionate care – diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients across every stage of life, in settings from hospitals to private practices.
Why It’s Growing: With a growing patient population and fewer physicians, NPs are essential to expanding access to high-quality care.
How to Prepare: Start with a BS in Nursing, then advance through Keuka College’s flexible online/hybrid AGPCNP master’s program.
“I’m in a completely different role from nursing – I’m a provider in a primary care office with a great collaborating physician. Instead of following doctor’s orders, you’re giving them.”
2. Medical and Health Services Manager
Median Salary: $118,000
Projected Growth Rate: 29%
What They Do: Medical and health services managers are the strategic leaders who keep healthcare systems running – balancing budgets, operations, and patient outcomes with skill and compassion.
Why It’s Growing: As the healthcare industry expands and evolves, there’s rising demand for skilled leaders who can manage complexity and improve care delivery.
How to Prepare: Keuka College’s MS in Leadership-Healthcare Track prepares you to lead with confidence in today’s evolving healthcare field.
3. Veterinarian
Median Salary: $126,000
Projected Growth Rate: 19%
What They Do: Veterinarians are animal health experts and public health advocates, combining science and compassion in clinics, farms, labs, and zoos.
Why It’s Growing: Rising pet ownership and advancements in animal care are fueling steady demand for veterinary services across the country.
How to Prepare: Keuka College’s pre-vet program offers hands-on experience and guidance to help you stand out for veterinary school.
4. Financial Manager
Median Salary: $162,000
Projected Growth Rate: 17%
What They Do: Financial managers drive an organization’s financial strategy – analyzing data, guiding investments, and fueling growth across industries like banking, insurance, and tech.
Why It’s Growing: As the economy becomes more complex, organizations need savvy professionals to navigate risk, maximize returns, and plan for long-term success.
How to Prepare: Earn your BS in Finance, then strengthen your strategic planning skills with Keuka College’s MS in Leadership-Management Track, online or on campus.
5. Occupational Therapist
Median Salary: $98,000
Projected Growth Rate: 11%
What They Do: Occupational therapists help people regain independence – supporting recovery, adaptation, and well-being through personalized, hands-on care in schools, hospitals, and beyond.
Why It’s Growing: An aging population and greater awareness of developmental and rehabilitation needs are driving increased demand for skilled therapists.
How to Prepare: Keuka College offers a clear 5-year path: earn your BS in Occupational Science, then your MS in Occupational Therapy – all on one campus.
“Our professors do everything they can to keep class fun and engaging, which makes learning much more realistic and hands-on. I’m 100% ready for my career!”
6. Biochemist
Median Salary: $104,000
Projected Growth Rate: 9%
What They Do: Biochemists study cells, DNA, and chemical processes to drive breakthroughs in medicine, genetics, and environmental science, often in cutting-edge labs.
Why It’s Growing: Ongoing demand for medical innovation, pharmaceutical development, and genetic research is fueling steady growth in the field.
How to Prepare: Start with a BA or BS in Biology at Keuka College, where hands-on research and mentorship prepare you for grad school and a science career.
7. Counseling/Clinical Psychologist
Median Salary: $85,000
Projected Growth Rate: 7%
What They Do: Psychologists help people navigate emotions, behavior, and relationships – bringing insight and empathy to promote healing in schools, hospitals, and private practice.
Why It’s Growing: Rising awareness of mental health and increasing demand for accessible care are creating more opportunities for trained professionals.
How to Prepare: Start with a BA in Psychology from Keuka College to build research skills, real-world experience, and a strong foundation for grad school or an MSW.
Keep Exploring
With more than 40 academic programs – including flexible online degrees designed for busy, working adults – Keuka College makes it easier to find your path and follow it with purpose.
