If you're just starting out and not quite sure which direction you want to go in job-wise, or you're tired of your current career and would like to make a change, you owe it to yourself to do a little research before you make any decisions. Ask some very pointed questions, such as "What career fields are currently hot?" "Which career fields show a potential for need due to understaffing in the next ten years?" And, of course, "What career fields are paying good money?" According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Career Builder.com, the choices listed below represent ten of the best jobs available if you hold a two-year degree:

• Computer Specialist. Salary - $71,000. Current employment is 136,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 15 percent.
• Dental Hygienist. Salary - $64,000. Current employment is 167,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 30 percent.
• Fashion Designer. Salary - $62,000. Current employment is 20,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 5 percent.
• Registered Nurse. Salary - $60,000. Current employment is 2.5 million and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 23 percent.
• Environmental Technician. Salary - $40,000. Current employment is 21,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 25 percent.
• Radiologist. Salary - $50,000. Current employment is 196,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 15 percent.
• Engineering Technician. Salary - $47,000. Current employment is 75,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 10 percent.
• Paralegal/Legal Assistant. Salary - $44,000. Current employment is 238,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 22 percent.
• Occupational Therapist Assistant. Salary - $45,000. Current employment is 25,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 25 percent.
• Computer Support Specialist. Salary - $42,000. Current employment is 552,000 and the projection for the next eight years is an increase in employment of 13 percent.

If you hold a two-year Associate's Degree, you can earn $40,000 or more in the fields of healthcare, computer technology, and retail services. Of course, a four-year degree will allow you to make even more money and will also yield a wider range of opportunities in even more industry fields.

Put some real time and thought into the decision of what you'd like to do with your future. Do your homework. If you have a specific interest, talk to a few people that are actively working in that area. They'll be able to give you the "ins and outs" and "ups and downs" of the job. You may even find a way to do a little entry-level work as a trainee in the field you desire. If you need to further your education, talk at length to a career counselor at the institution you'll be attending. Use all of the resources at your disposal to help you meet your career goals.