Although the economy certainly appears to be working its way toward recovery, the recession has left many college-bound individuals even more concerned about choosing the right career path. After all, no one wants to attend school for several years only to find that there career is nearly obsolete. If you are trying to determine which degree path to follow, a recent U.S. News article can help you narrow down your options.

After combing through the Labor Department’s job growth projects for 2008 thorough 2018, U.S. News came up with a list of the 50 best career options for 2010, conveniently categorized in different areas of interest. Here’s a look at what U.S. News determined.

Science and Technology Field

There is no doubt that the need for knowledgeable professionals within the science and technology field will continue to remain strong over the next several years. Specific occupations within this field that the article cited as being particularly strong include:

· Biomedical engineer
· Civil engineer
· Computer software engineer
· Environmental engineering technician
· Environmental science technician
· Hydrologist
· Meteorologist
· Network architect
· Systems analyst

Healthcare

If your interests lie in healthcare, you really can’t go wrong. As baby boomers continue to age and as advancements in medical technology continue to extend the average lifespan, the need for qualified healthcare professionals will also continue to grow. The top ten careers within this field include:

· Dental hygienist
· Lab technician
· Occupational therapist
· Optometrist
· Physical therapist
· Physical therapist assistant
· Physician assistant
· Registered nurse
· School psychologist
· Veterinarian
· X-ray technician

Education and Civic

If you are more interested in helping others than earning a huge paycheck, you might want to consider pursuing a career within the education and civic field. The top career paths within this field include:

· Clergy
· Court reporter
· Emergency management specialist
· Firefighter
· Marriage and family therapist
· Mediator
· Medical and public health social worker
· Special education teacher
· Urban planner

Business and Finance

Despite the recent economic troubles, there are still several jobs within the business and finance sector that are likely to remain strong for years to come. These careers include:

· Accountant
· Actuary
· Cost estimator
· Financial analyst
· Financial adviser
· Loan officer
· Logistician
· Market research analyst
· Meeting planner
· Public relations specialist
· Training specialist

Creative and Service

If you want to work in a career that will allow you to get your creative juices flowing or that allows you to stay on your feet and keep active throughout the day, one of these top creative and service jobs may be right for you:

· Commercial pilot
· Curator
· Film and video editor
· Funeral director
· Gaming manager
· Landscape architect
· Multimedia artist
· Plumber
· Security system installer
· Technical writer