Choosing a career that pays well is one of the most important decisions we make in our lives. While some may choose a profession for its passion, others may select a job that guarantees them financial security.
The truth is, some of the highest-paying jobs require advanced training and a considerable investment of time and money. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top high-paying careers that require advanced training, from pilot to surgeon.
(1) Pilot
If you’ve always dreamed of soaring high in the sky, becoming a pilot may be the perfect career for you. Pilots fly various aircraft, from small airplanes to large commercial airliners, and cargo planes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for commercial pilots was $121,430 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $208,000 per year.
Becoming a pilot requires significant training and education. You must earn a commercial pilot’s license, which involves acquiring 250 hours of flight experience, including 100 hours of pilot-in-command time and 50 hours of cross-country flight time. In addition, you’ll need to complete a flight training program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This can take anywhere from 6 months to a year, depending on the program you choose.
(2) Doctor
Becoming a doctor is one of the most respected and rewarding professions in the world. Doctors diagnose and treat illnesses, injuries, and medical conditions. They also provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and health screenings. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for physicians and surgeons was $206,500 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $208,000 per year.
Becoming a doctor requires a significant investment of time and money. You’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes four years, followed by four years of medical school. After that, you’ll complete a residency program that can last anywhere from three to seven years, depending on your chosen specialty. Once you’ve completed your residency, you’ll need to obtain a medical license in the state where you wish to practice.
(3) Dentist
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They also provide advice and guidance on how to maintain good oral health. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for dentists was $159,200 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $208,000 per year.
To become a dentist, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree and complete a four-year dental school program. After that, you’ll need to obtain a license in the state where you wish to practice. Some dentists also choose to complete a residency program to specialize in a particular area of dentistry, such as orthodontics or pediatric dentistry.
(4) Pharmacist
Pharmacists are responsible for dispensing medications and advising patients on how to use them safely and effectively. They also work with other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the correct medications and dosages. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for pharmacists was $128,710 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $164,900 per year.
To become a pharmacist, you’ll need to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, which typically takes four years to complete. After earning your degree, you’ll need to pass two exams to obtain a license to practice pharmacy in your state.
Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries and illnesses by developing and carrying out treatment plans that involve exercise manual therapy, and other techniques. They also provide education and guidance on how to prevent future injuries and improve overall physical health. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for physical therapists was $91,010 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $126,250 per year.
To become a physical therapist, you’ll need to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which typically takes three years to complete. After earning your degree, you’ll need to pass a licensure exam to practice in your state.
(6) Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries in animals, including pets, livestock, and wildlife. They also provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and health screenings. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for veterinarians was $96,140 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $168,470 per year.
To become a veterinarian, you’ll need to earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, which typically takes four years to complete. After earning your degree, you’ll need to obtain a license to practice veterinary medicine in your state.
(7) Lawyer
Lawyers provide legal advice and representation to individuals, businesses, and government agencies. They also represent clients in court proceedings and negotiate legal agreements. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for lawyers was $126,930 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $208,000 per year.
To become a lawyer, you’ll need to earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, which typically takes three years to complete. After earning your degree, you’ll need to pass a bar exam to obtain a license to practice law in your state.
(8) Engineer
Engineers design and develop new products, systems, and technologies. They also analyze and improve existing systems to make them more efficient and effective. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for engineers was $80,720 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $142,560 per year.
To become an engineer, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Some engineers also choose to earn a master’s degree to specialize in a particular area of engineering. After earning your degree, you’ll need to obtain a license to practice engineering in your state.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, there are many high-paying careers that require advanced training, from pilot to surgeon. These professions offer financial security and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. However, it’s important to note that these careers require a significant investment of time and money. If you’re considering pursuing one of these careers, be sure to carefully research the educational requirements and job outlook for your chosen profession. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your career goals and enjoy the rewards of a fulfilling and lucrative profession.