17 Promising Professions to Consider Returning to School for at 40

Navigating a Career Transition: Top Professions to Consider After 40

Making a significant career shift isn’t an easy choice, especially when contemplating it at the age of 40 or beyond. The decision to switch paths raises questions about which vocations warrant returning to school and if the investment of time and money in education truly pays off.

Fortunately, there exist numerous fields that offer compelling reasons for a mid-career return to school. Whether you’re seeking better income, job security, happiness, or a sense of fulfillment, these areas present promising opportunities for making a successful transition.

To assist you in embarking on this journey, we’ve compiled a list of 17 careers across six domains, drawing insights from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, that are unequivocally worth the commitment of returning to school.

Healthcare

1. Registered Nurse With a consistently projected growth and a median annual salary of $70,000, nursing stands as a secure career choice for those looking to return to school. As a nurse, you’ll provide care, education, and support to patients across various healthcare settings.

Education duration: Two to four years

2. Medical Administrative Assistant For individuals keen on working in the medical field minus direct patient interaction, a role as a medical administrative assistant is fitting. These professionals earn a median annual salary of around $34,610 while handling medical reports, billing, and administrative tasks.

Education duration: Approximately two years

3. Physical Therapist Promising a median salary of about $86,850 per year, physical therapists aid patients in managing pain and improving physical movement post-injury or medical procedures.

Education duration: Roughly seven years

Technology 4. Software Developer In the ever-expanding tech industry, software developers play a crucial role in creating programs for devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets. With a median annual salary of $103,560, this career offers stability and lucrative prospects.

Education duration: About four years

5. Web Developer Crafting websites from start to finish, web developers earn around $67,990 per year. Proficiency in coding and graphic design is vital, allowing flexibility in education paths.

Education duration: Two to four years

6. Information Security Analyst Information security analysts safeguard data and combat cyber threats, earning a median annual salary of $95,510. Specialized degrees in tech-related fields equip professionals for this role.

Education duration: Approximately four years

Finance 7. Accountant Accountants ensure accurate financial records and tax compliance, earning a median salary of $69,350 per year. A bachelor’s degree, and potentially a master’s, lay the foundation for success in this field.

Education duration: Around four to six years

8. Financial Analyst Guiding businesses and individuals in financial decisions, financial analysts command a median salary of $84,300. Degrees in economics, statistics, finance, or mathematics pave the way for this career.

Education duration: About four years

Education 9. Elementary School Teacher Teaching offers a rewarding and secure path, with elementary school teachers earning a median salary of $57,160. A bachelor’s degree and state licensure are essential for this role.

Education duration: At least four years

10. Higher Education Professor Higher education professors impact students’ future careers, with a median salary of $76,000 per year. A master’s or doctoral degree is typically required for this role.

Education duration: At least two to eight years post-grad

11. Academic Success Counselor Helping students navigate higher education, academic success counselors earn around $55,410 per year. A master’s degree and specialized expertise enhance their effectiveness.

Education duration: About four to six years

Marketing 12. Market Research Analyst Studying market trends, market research analysts predict consumer behavior, earning a median salary of about $63,230. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in market research or related fields is advantageous.

Education duration: Up to four years

13. Search Engine Optimization Specialist SEO specialists optimize websites to boost online visibility, with a median salary of around $55,530. A degree in business, digital marketing, or data analytics prepares individuals for this dynamic role.

Education duration: Up to four years

14. Public Relations Specialist Crafting positive public images for businesses, public relations specialists earn a median income of around $59,300. A bachelor’s degree in related fields, coupled with strong communication skills, is essential.

Education duration: About four years

Business Administration 15. Project Manager With strong organizational skills, project managers oversee business aspects and earn a median salary of around $67,280. Various degree paths, from business to engineering, can lead to success in this role.

Education duration: Up to four years

16. Executive Administrative Assistant Handling advanced clerical tasks, executive administrative assistants earn an average salary of $67,280. A bachelor’s degree in a business-related field is advantageous.

Education duration: Up to four years

17. Human Resources Manager Managing employee relations, human resources managers earn a median salary of about $110,120. Strong interpersonal skills and a bachelor’s degree in human resources or related fields are crucial.

Education duration: Up to four years

Final Thoughts Though reentering school mid-career may seem daunting, your accumulated life and work experience provides a strong foundation. Armed with insights into these prospective careers, you can confidently pursue a path that aligns with your aspirations and goals.