Registered Nurse

Total number of U.S. workers (most recent data): 2,737,400
10-year growth projection: 26.0% (all occupations: 14.3%)
Annual salary range: $53,770 to $80,390 (all occupations: $22,380-$55,470)
Typical education: associate's degree

The outlook for RNs is healthy. The field is expected to add more than 711,000 positions in this decade, the most of any occupation. Advancing technology, greater focus on preventive care and an aging population will mean a growing number of patients requiring care — in hospitals, doctors' offices, long-term-care facilities and even private homes.

Becoming a registered nurse requires a bachelor's of science in nursing (generally a four-year program), an associate's degree in nursing (two to three years) or a diploma from an accredited nursing program (two to three years). An advanced nursing position, such as a nurse practitioner, calls for a master's degree. You'll also need a license to practice, not to mention reserves of compassion and patience.