As the healthcare sector continues to change, professionals who are able to keep their skills sharp could put themselves at the forefront of this fast-growing field. As a result, these healthcare workers may want to consider enrolling in campus-based or online college courses, which could help them stay abreast of emerging trends in their industries.

In fact, certain degree programs could help these students launch new, higher-paying careers. For instance, Forbes reports that graduate degree programs in physicians' assisting could be one of the wisest investments an individual can make.

The demand for these professionals - who provide diagnostic and preventative healthcare services under a doctor's supervision - is expected to grow greatly in the coming years, according to the news source. Today's hospitals and clinics are already experiencing a shortage of physicians, and this deficit is expected to increase due to healthcare reform and the aging population. As a result, career prospects for physician assistants are projected to be quite favorable.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for these professionals are expected to increase by 39 percent over the next eight years.