1. Get Back in the Job Market Fast: 10 Certification and Career Training Programs to Get You on Your Feet
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Get Back in the Job Market Fast: 10 Certification and Career Training Programs to Get You on Your Feet

Published Jun 01, 2009

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If you're laid off or looking for an immediate career change, you may not have the time or desire to enroll in a lengthy degree program. Fortunately, there are a number of certification and career training programs that can completed in a matter of months (and sometimes weeks.)

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Microsoft Certified Professional Programs

Microsoft programs are used in every type of office imaginable. Individuals who have earned a certification in these programs, are sure to stand out among other job applicants. A Microsoft Certified Professional preparation program can be completed within a few weeks.

Administrative Assistant Training Program

Administrative assistants are needed in almost every industry. Most career training programs will prepare students for this job with instruction in computer applications, clerical tasks and keyboarding. Program length can vary, but most programs can be completed in just a few months' time.

Accounting Training Programs

Accounting is one of the few fields expected to grow during the recession. Students who complete a certificate program in accounting or another professional program will be well poised to use their newfound knowledge in any accounting or finance related position. Some programs last a couple of weeks; others take a couple of months to complete.

Information Systems and Management Certificate Program

Recession or not, the IT field is always growing. Students who already hold a bachelor degree may benefit from one of the many information systems and management certificate programs offered though colleges and universities. Most of these programs have flexible course offerings so students can choose what they would like to specialize in. The average program can be completed in just a few months.

HVAC Training Program

Careers in HVAC are more recession resistant that other careers. Refrigeration is an indispensible necessity, and efficient heating systems are becoming more popular as people try to offset rising bills. An HVAC training or certificate program can prepare students who want to transition into this recession-proof career. Many programs allows students to work at their own pace, which means that the average program can be completed in only a few weeks by an energetic individual.

Green Building Certificate Program

Green building certificate programs are popping up everywhere to meet the demand for sustainable construction. These programs are designed for current and aspiring building professionals who want to learn more about green construction topics. Many of these certificate programs can be completed in as little as 12 weeks.

Software Testing Certificate Program

Software engineering and testing is one of the fastest growing industries in the nation. Individuals who are interested in working in the testing side of this industry may benefit from one of the many software testing certificate programs available through colleges, universities, and industry associations. Program length can vary. However, most programs can be completed in just as few months time.

Home Health Care Training Programs

The need for qualifies home health care workers has grown by leaps and bounds in the last few years. The recession doesn't seem to be having any effect on this demand. Individuals who are interested in pursuing this health care career can get their foot in the door by completing a formal training program. Most programs can be completed in just a few weeks.

ESL Training Programs

Current educators and degree holders who are interested in branching into the wide world of ESL teaching can easily do so with an ESL certificate. ESL certificate and training programs usually take just a few months to complete. Many will also help with job placement after graduation.

Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program

Individuals who work in medical billing and coding can work from home or in a traditional office environment. Career training programs are available to help students transition into this important profession. Most programs can be completed in 50-75 hours.

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