Online Colleges in Ohio

As the 7th most populous state in the U.S., and with a location that links the Northeast of the country to the Midwest, the Buckeye State offers unique economic opportunities. Ohio is within a one-day drive of 50 percent of the U.S. population and 70 percent of the country's manufacturing capacity.

As the 7th most populous state in the U.S., and with a location that links the Northeast of the country to the Midwest, the Buckeye State offers unique economic opportunities. Ohio is within a one-day drive of 50 percent of the U.S. population and 70 percent of the country's manufacturing capacity.

Jobs and the Ohio economy

Ohio's location makes it a mecca for manufacturing jobs, which generally do not require a postsecondary education. Some of the state's largest employers include Kroger, Goodyear, and Proctor & Gamble. However, these jobs are experiencing dramatic cutbacks, and the state government's "Ohio Job Outlook" report predicts that manufacturing jobs will decrease by 14.9 percent from 2008 to 2018.

By contrast, jobs in the health care field have grown rapidly in the recent past and that trend should continue. Thanks to some mergers and acquisitions, Ohio now possesses several large hospital groups that rank among the state's major employers, including the Cleveland Clinic and Catholic Healthcare Partners.

Also ranked among the fastest growing industries are employment services, computer systems design and related services, and individual and family services (in the social assistance category). The state of Ohio expects each of these industries to generate approximately 20,000 to 25,000 new jobs from 2008 to 2018.

Ohio higher education options

According to Ohio Labor Market Information, more than 60 percent of the fastest growing occupations in the state require at least an associate degree. Similarly, among the 100 highest paying jobs, 91 require at least an associate degree. Jobs where workers hold some level of postsecondary training are projected to grow faster than those where workers lack a postsecondary education.

The University System of Ohio is one of the largest comprehensive public higher education systems in the U.S. with 14 universities and 24 regional branch campuses. That doesn't include the numerous private colleges and universities in the state as well as local and national schools the offer online classes for Ohio residents.

Growing careers in Ohio

The "Buckeye Top 50" lists high-wage occupations that are currently in demand and are expected to stay in demand, such as those listed below. These jobs are shown with the projected growth rate in Ohio from 2008 to 2018, according to state resources. Also listed is the mean annual salary for 2010 in Ohio, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Registered nurses: The large field is expected to grow by 17.7 percent, creating 4,175 new jobs annually. Mean salary was $60,590. Degree required: associate or bachelor's degree.
• Dental hygienists: Job growth of 25.1 percent is predicted. Mean salary was $61,350. Degree required: associate degree.
• Personal financial advisers: This occupation should grow by 21.6 percent. Mean salary was $81,560. Degree required: bachelor's degree, but some employers may prefer an MBA.
• Physicians and surgeons: High job growth, for example, 21.2 percent growth for surgeons. Mean salary was $191,010. Degree required: first professional degree, often requiring an extensive education.

Ohio online schools

If you are considering one of the Ohio online schools, remember that tuition could be comparable to on-campus counterparts. On the plus side, online students often find it easier to maintain full-time jobs while earning a degree. Distance learning can also save you the inconvenience of relocating to a faraway school. Ohio online degrees may be what you need to start a fulfilling new career.