Despite the iffy-economy and the dour unemployment statistics, there are industries with expected growth out there – with opportunities aplenty for graduates that distinguish themselves from the maddening crowd.

Statistics say that computers and technology, accounting and finance, office and administrative support, government positions, and healthcare, are the industries to watch in 2010! According to the 2010-11 edition of the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the next eight years are going to be interesting ones for the following industries:

The Big Bang Theory:  No big surprises there – tech workers are always in demand. With positions like network administrators, CIS security managers and engineers playing a necessary role in today’s businesses, the continuing technology evolution will continue to demand workers with specialized knowledge. Another big deal is just over the horizon – expect to see an explosion of data security specialists for hire and consulting. One of the biggest growth sectors in technology is data management and security. Identity thieves beware – the IT department is watching YOU!

Death and taxes:  Even Albert Einstein said that there is nothing harder to understand than the income tax! As long as the IRS and the tax code exists, the job market for accountants, CPA’s, CMA’s and financial specialists, will experience growth. With the continuing effects of FASB and Sarbanes-Oxley – enter the suddenly lucrative accounting occupation – the compliance officers or consultants. With great paychecks comes great responsibility, however, as these individuals are responsible for keeping their companies in line with the code and regulations, as well as ensuring continuing profitability.

Adventures in Administration:  Organized, detail-oriented people will always have their pick of positions in office administration! The rarely appreciated field of administration is what makes business work.  Executive assistants, senior office managers, clerks, and a host of other administrative positions will continue to grease the wheels of business. Customer Relationship/Retention Management is an area in administration that will see explosive growth in the coming years. Savvy business professionals will see these positions as lucrative careers or potential stepping stones to achieving their ultimate career goals. 

Big Government = Big Job Opportunity:  As in most down economies, the United States government starts looking to fill various jobs from clerks to directors in various departments across all levels of government.

An Apple a Day:  Does not always keep the doctor away. With the Baby Boom Generation aging, and with more and more middle-aged career men and women dealing not only with childcare but adult care as well, the healthcare industry is always growing. It’s an industry that is economy-proof! Whether you are interested in hospital administration, home health nursing, marketing, organizational management, whatever – health care needs them all!

Remember, the keys to finding a job in any economy is having an up-to-date resume, taking the time to research your potential employer so you can distinguish yourself from other job-seekers, and approach any interview opportunity with an open mind and impeccable manners. Happy hunting in 2010!

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Note: For job opportunities and career assistance in these and other fields visit WGU Career Services at: www.wgu.edu/careerservices.

Where are you from? Originally from Florida. I spent most my life in California and now am in Utah.

When did you start at WGU? I started WGU in November of 2009.

Your program of study: I am studying to receive my bachelor's degree in Accounting.

Your favorite aspect of being a WGU student: I love being able to study at my own pace. If I "get it", I can get the course done faster. Likewise, if I am having trouble with a subject, I can spend more time studying for it.

What are your plans after you finish your degree? Once I finish my degree, I plan to put it to work. I have some experience in an accounting office; however, I want to find a more specific accounting field to focus on.

Outside of work and WGU, what do you like to do? I love to spend time with my family. My husband and two kids keep me smiling. Yard work keeps me outside, active, and sometimes very sore.

More on Elizabeth: I decided to join WGU with some prodding from my mom. After a recent job loss, I was trying to find ways to make myself more marketable to future employers. What better way than to obtain my bachelor in a field that I already have some experience in and know that I enjoy? With my level of experience and my willingness to learn, earning a degree from WGU just seemed to be the logical choice.

Where are you from? I am originally from Detroit, Michigan, and now reside in Southern California.

When did you start at WGU? I started my studies at WGU in February 2010.

Your program of study: Master of Business Administration.

Your favorite aspect of being a WGU student: The flexible schedule, at-home study, ability to study at my own pace, and exceptional personal attention from my mentor.

What are your plans after you finish your degree? I plan to further my career as an entrepreneur by obtaining my Real Estate Broker license and going into business with my friend and colleague, who is an attorney. He is starting a non-profit corporation that will educate the public on finances and the home purchase process.

Outside of work and WGU, what do you like to do? I typically spend time with friends and family. I also like to travel, and my goal is to obtain my passport and go on a cruise of the Greek Mediterranean.

More on Elizabeth: I grew up in a family that was very negative. Most of my life I was told that I would never graduate from college. No one in my family had ever graduated from college, so it was important for me to obtain a college degree for my own personal satisfaction. My family owned a business in Michigan, and it was during that time that I learned many valuable things about business, people, and life. I chose a field that I excelled at, which is management and accounting. When online courses first became available, I found that they fit my schedule and my family life. I am married and have a 21-year-old son who also values his education and who will graduate from California State University in June 2010.

As I mentioned, I like to travel and went to New York right after the 9/11 terror attacks on a mission trip with my church. I have also traveled to the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls Canada. In 2007, I visited Washington, DC with tours of the Capitol and Supreme Court, which are among my favorite places. I am also a licensed minister and was a youth pastor for 15 years. I possess a bachelor's degree in church ministry, practical ministry and a master's degree in biblical studies. I have volunteered countless hours at soup kitchens, outreach to the homeless, Angel Tree Prison Ministry, Juvenile Hall Ministry, and homework/afterschool center assistance.

It is my hope that a Master in Business Administration will open up an even wider door of opportunity for me to make my community a better place. It's not just about the piece of paper; it's about a better way of life.