For many Americans, an important component of the American Dream is the possibility of hard work turning into financial fortune. The career exploits of such self made magnates like Andrew Carnegie, Lee Iaccoca and Donald Trump are examples for many.

The idea of being self-employed appeals to many people who want the possibility of unlimited income, a flexible schedule and perhaps the opportunity to work from home. If you're one of these people, having the proper training, especially in a growth industry, is very important. Consider these ten courses of study, if you want to be your own boss.

Creative Careers

The personal computer has made it much easier to enter the marketplace in many professions. Training in graphic design, multimedia design and web design allow you to work from home, or as your clientele increases, out of an office. Education in these skills can also create opportunities for you to work as an employee, or contractor. These creative jobs are very much in demand, particularly as advertising spending has increased as the economy has improved.

Mechanical Careers

If you like to fix things or work with your hands, there are some great, lucrative training programs that will allow you to do this type of work for a career. Most of these jobs require you to work for someone else first, either to gain skills training or the money to go off on your own. A career in HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), home appliance repair, electrical installation/repair or auto body repair are all great ways to make your hands create a living for you.

Service Careers

There are many service careers available as well for the self-employed. Home healthcare is one such growing field. Nurses, both RNs and LPNs, are in wide demand. Another career field that is growing is court reporting and closed captioning. The growing legal system and new Federal laws designed to benefit the hearing impaired are driving growth in these categories.

In addition to having the skills to perform your chosen business, you need the business skills as well. Sales and marketing are in first order, while organization and administrative skills will keep your clients and the IRS happy.

For more information on useful courses, go here www.top-colleges.com.

About The Author

Max Stein, Salt Lake City, UT, USA http://www.degreesource.com/articles

Max Stein is a freelance writer who writes about business, education and marketing. For daily updates, read our blog at http://degreesource.blogspot.com