• Healthcare and Nursing is a stable and supportive fields for women, with competitive salaries and career advancement opportunities.
• Dental Services offer a median salary of $161,750 per year, with job security projected to grow by 19%.
• Women have made significant gains in the legal field, offering competitive salaries and the ability to make a difference in clients’ lives.
• Education is another sector with opportunities for women, with a median salary of $40,000 and the potential for significant salary increases with advanced degrees.
Today’s women have more opportunities than ever to pursue fulfilling careers, earn competitive salaries, and make significant contributions to their fields. Although women have made major strides in many industries, there is still progress to be made when it comes to closing the gender pay gap, diversifying leadership roles, and empowering women of all backgrounds to reach their full potential. Here are some of the best careers for women in the United States today, based on salary, leadership potential, job security, and job satisfaction.
Healthcare and Nursing
The healthcare industry is one of the most stable and supportive fields for women, with a wide range of opportunities for clinical and administrative roles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses (RNs) earn an average salary of $75,510 per year, with plenty of career advancement and specialization opportunities. Other healthcare roles that offer competitive salaries and job security include physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and healthcare administrators. Here are some steps to get started in this industry:
Education
Healthcare demands a high level of education and training, so ensuring you have the right qualifications is important. Most healthcare roles require at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, with some requiring advanced degrees such as a master’s or doctorate. It is also possible to get into certain healthcare fields without a college degree, but these jobs tend to have lower salaries and less job security.
Internship and Residency
The best way to gain experience in healthcare is to participate in internships and residency programs, which are invaluable for networking and building your resume. Many hospitals and clinics offer paid or unpaid internships that provide hands-on training in the practical aspects of the field. Additionally, residencies at graduate medical institutions (GMIs) help build knowledge and expertise while providing a salary and benefits.
Certification
Certified credentials are essential for most healthcare roles, so take the necessary exams to get your certifications. For example, registered nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination-RN (NCLEX-RN) before practicing in the United States. Additionally, many states require additional certifications such as the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam or the Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Dental Services
A career in dental services is another excellent option for women. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dentists earn an average salary of $161,750 annually. Job opportunities are expected to increase by 19% over the next decade due to an aging population and growing demand for dental care. It also has one of the highest rates of women working in the field, with about 35% of dentists being female. Here’s how you can get started in this field.
Education
Much like any healthcare-related career, you’ll need a degree to get started. For most dental services roles, such as dentists and dental hygienists, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, although some states may require additional certifications or higher degrees.
Specialization
After you’ve obtained your degree, consider specializing in dental services. The most popular specialization is orthodontics. As an orthodontist, you’re responsible for straightening teeth and correcting bites. This usually requires additional training and certification beyond the basic degree requirements.
Licensing
Dental services roles require a license from the state to practice. Licensing exams vary by state but typically include written tests and clinical skills assessments. Additionally, many states have continuing education requirements that must be met to maintain your license.
Law and Legal Services
Women have made significant gains in the legal field in recent decades, with many achieving high-profile roles as judges, attorneys, and legal scholars. According to the American Bar Association, women comprise 38% of active lawyers and 47% of law school graduates. Some of the best legal careers for women today include corporate counsel, intellectual property lawyer, government lawyer, and family law attorney. These roles offer competitive salaries and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of clients and communities.
Education
Women have always been integral to the education sector, serving as teachers, principals, and educational leaders. With a growing emphasis on STEM education and technology integration, there are new opportunities for women to pursue careers in education technology, curriculum development, and educational consulting. According to the National Education Association, the median earnings for female teachers in the United States are $40,000 per year, with the potential for significant salary increases with advanced degrees and leadership roles.
Women in the U.S. are now more likely than ever to pursue careers that offer competitive salaries, job security, and growth opportunities. There are now many exciting career options available for women today. With dedication, hard work, and the right qualifications, you can make a difference in your field and reach your goals.
