College students today are becoming increasingly more worried when it comes to finding a career after graduation. While a college degree used to be the golden ticket to getting a good job, things are beginning to change. The college degree is losing its value because everyone has one. Graduate degrees and doctorates are now being required for many positions.However, college degrees can still hold significance if you know where to look. Here are some of the most successful career fields for recent college graduates.
1. Software Development and Computer Programming
The computer science and engineering fields continue to be in high demand for recent college graduates with the right education simply because computer science and software engineering are not easy or commonly desired fields of study. Not only are jobs in this area widely available, but also they pay incredibly well from the get go. Starting salaries can range anywhere from $52,000 to $93,000 per year. Because people in the computer and software industry are constantly needing to improve their skills as things change and update, many companies will train their employees and then hire from within. The possibilities on how to succeed in this career field are endless.
2. Actuary Mathematics
Another difficult and uncommon college major is actuary mathematics, which puts this career field on the top of the list for being in demand and seeking recent graduates. Actuary mathematics involves analyzing financial risk for companies. Many actuaries work for insurance companies and need a background involving not only math, but finance, and statistics as well. Actuaries can make anywhere from $60,000 to $120,000 per year. This career field is specialized and unique, but with the right training, it can be a very successful option.
3. Engineering
Whether it is petroleum, chemical, or nuclear engineering, engineers are in high demand, again, because of the high level of knowledge it takes to be a part of these industries and the lack of graduates getting degrees in these fields. Engineers in these fields can make anywhere from $67,000 to $179,000 per year, with petroleum engineering being the highest paying. These industries require very intelligent minds and extreme expertise, but the payout is well worth it.
4. Accounting
Accounting jobs are in high demand today and the accounting job field has an expected growth rate of 16% by the year 2020. While accounting is not nearly as difficult as the previous industries mentioned, it does require a specific degree with specific knowledge. The salary, however, is comparable to these more complex fields with a mean annual salary of $70,000. Competition may be greater in this industry because there are a number of graduates with accounting degrees, but with proper pursuit, accounting can be a great career choice.
These are only a few career fields in high demand for recent college graduates today, but it is safe to say that most jobs that pay well and are looking to hire are not the most common or easiest. Being unique and specialized in your studies as well as challenging yourself throughout college will make finding a successful career after college that much easier.